Manual therapists’ appraisal of optimal non-pharmacological conservative management of patients with lumbar spinal stenosis. An international Delphi study

Background

Lumbar Spinal Stenosis (LSS) is a slow progressive degenerative disorder associated with chronic pain and disability. Although consensus-based international guidelines for invasive treatment of patients with LSS exist, few consensus-based guidelines for optimal conservative management strategies have been published.

Objective

To achieve manual therapists’ consensus on optimal physiotherapeutic management strategies for LSS.

Methods

The study employed a three-round, email–based International Delphi survey. All qualified members of the International Maitland Teacher Association (IMTA) (n = 30) were invited to participate.

Results

Twelve IMTA teachers participated in the study. Eight essential physiotherapy management strategies were identified, as follows: 1. Detailed assessment with in-depth interview; 2. Recognition of red flags, contraindications and precautions; 3. Neurological examination; 4. Postural and movement analysis with related ergonomics; 5. Functional analysis; 6. Individualized treatment based on assessment findings and research evidence; 7. Aerobic training and 8. Patient education.

Conclusion

This Delphi survey provides a foundation for physiotherapists to individualize and optimise management approaches for patients with LSS. With a growing elderly population, there is an increasing need for evidence-based conservative management guidelines based on high quality research.