SUCCESSFUL CONSERVATIVE MANAGEMENT OF SURGICALLY RECOMMENDED LUMBAR INTERVERTEBRAL DISC PROLAPSE IN A 17-YEAR-OLD ADOLESCENT: A CASE REPORT

Lumbar intervertebral disc prolapse (IVDP) is relatively uncommon in adolescents but can result in severe low back pain, radiculopathy, functional impairment, and neurological deficits requiring prompt evaluation and management.[1] Surgical intervention is generally recommended when conservative treatment fails or when progressive neurological deficits or significant neural compression are present.[2] Magnetic Resonance Therapy (MRT) has emerged as a non-invasive therapeutic modality with the potential to promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and improve clinical outcomes in musculoskeletal disorders, although evidence in lumbar IVDP remains limited. Case Presentation: A 17-year-old adolescent presented with severe low back pain radiating to the lower limb, associated with restricted lumbar movements, positive nerve tension signs, and impaired activities of daily living. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed lumbar intervertebral disc prolapse with nerve root compression.[1] Following independent evaluations by orthopaedic and neurosurgical specialists, the patient was advised to undergo surgical intervention in view of the clinical and radiological findings.[2] The patient elected to undergo conservative management with MRT. Clinical outcomes were assessed using pain intensity, neurological examination, functional disability, and serial MRI findings before and after treatment. Results: Following completion of MRT, the patient demonstrated substantial reduction in pain, improvement in neurological symptoms, restoration of lumbar mobility, and marked enhancement in functional status. Follow-up MRI demonstrated regression of disc pathology with reduced neural compression. The patient resumed normal daily activities without requiring surgery, and no treatment-related adverse events were observed. Conclusion: This case highlights the potential role of MRT as a safe, non-invasive therapeutic option in selected adolescents with lumbar IVDP, even after surgical intervention has been recommended.