A Case Report of Complex Korean Medicine Treatment Application Including Chuna Manual Therapy for Functional Recovery After Sacroiliac Joint Fusion

Abstract

Objectives This case study aimed to investigate the effect of complex Korean medicine treatment including Chuna manual therapy on sacroiliac joint (SIJ) pain status post SIJ fusion with sacroiliac screw fixation. Methods Complex Korean medicine treatments including Chuna manual therapy were provided to patients with SIJ widening due to a traffic accident trauma. Measurement of range of motion and manual muscle test to evaluate functional activities of daily living was conducted before and after treatment. Moreover, outcome estimates were performed using the numeric rating scale, pain disability index, and EuroQol 5-dimension five-level questionnaire. Results After complex treatment, functional activities of daily living improved. Sacroiliac joint pain decreased and the quality-of-life score improved. Conclusions This study suggests that treatment with complex Korean medicine treatment including Chuna manual therapy may improve traumatic SIJ widening status post SIJ fusion. A postoperative rehabilitation protocol based on accumulated research results considering a multidisciplinary approach should be prepared to ensure holistic treatment.