Effect of ultrasound-guided needle knife combined with platelet-rich plasma infusion on lumbar muscle strain and prognostic evaluation

The study evaluated the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided needle knife (UGNK) combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) infusion in treating chronic lumbar muscle strain (CLMS). Ninety-two patients with CLMS treated from January 2023 to January 2024 were randomly divided into a control group (CG, n = 46, simple local injection) and an observation group (OG, n = 46, UGNK with PRP infusion). The study compared treatment outcomes, lumbar range of motion, ultrasound findings, pain levels, lumbar function, serum inflammatory factors, and quality of life (QOL) before and after treatment. The effective rate in the OG (97.83 %) was significantly higher than in the CG (78.26 %, P < 0.05). After treatment, the OG showed a reduced lumbar range of motion, smaller hypoechoic areas, and lower pain scores (Present Pain Intensity [PPI], Visual Analog Scale [VAS], and Pain Rating Index [PRI]) compared to the CG (P < 0.05). The OG also had higher Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores and lower Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores, indicating improved lumbar function (P < 0.05). Serum levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and C-reactive protein (CRP) were lower in the OG, demonstrating reduced inflammation (P < 0.05). Additionally, QOL scores in the physiology, social relations, psychology, and environment domains were higher in the OG (P < 0.05). In conclusion, UGNK combined with PRP infusion effectively improves clinical symptoms, lumbar function, pain relief, inflammation reduction, and QOL in CLMS patients, suggesting a promising therapeutic approach.