The role of core stabilization in lumbosacral radiculopathy

Abstract

Lumbosacral radiculopathy is relatively common, and most cases resolve with appropriate conservative management. Along with pain control, the mainstay of treatment is a comprehensive rehabilitation program to correct for biomechanical factors that adversely affect spinal stability and predispose the patient to recurrent pain. Developing an appropriate treatment plan depends on thorough understanding of the structures providing core stability and the exercises to correct identifiable deficits. A comprehensive rehabilitation program includes postural training, muscle reactivation, correction of flexibility and strength deficits, and subsequent progression to functional exercises. This article reviews the current concepts regarding core stability and rehabilitation in lumbosacral radiculopathy.