Additive Effect Of TECAR Therapy On Pain And Perceived Lumbar Stiffness In A Patient With Chronic Lumbar Canal Stenosis – A Case Report

ABSTRACT Background: Lumbar canal stenosis is a degenerative condition affecting older adults and may result in low back pain, stiffness, and functional limitations. TECAR is a modality that may provide symptomatic relief when combined with conventional physiotherapy. This case report describes the clinical response to the addition of TECAR therapy in an elderly patient with chronic lumbar canal stenosis.Materials and Methods: An 88-year-old male with chronic lumbar canal stenosis, low back pain, and perceived lumbar stiffness underwent a 3-week physiotherapy program comprising conventional exercises and TECAR therapy. TECAR was delivered in resistive mode at 40% intensity for 10 minutes, twice weekly (6 sessions). Pain and lumbar stiffness were assessed pre- and post-intervention using the Numerical Rating Scale and Lumbar Stiffness Disability Index, respectively.Results: Pain intensity decreased from 8/10 before intervention to 2/10 after intervention, representing a 75% reduction. Lumbar stiffness impairment decreased from 50% to 12.5%, representing a 75% reduction. No adverse events were reported during treatment.Discussion: The addition of TECAR therapy to conventional physiotherapy was associated with substantial improvements in pain and perceived lumbar stiffness. The observed response suggests that this modality may have potential as an adjunct to active rehabilitation in elderly individuals with lumbar canal stenosis.Conclusion: TECAR combined with conventional physiotherapy, may contribute to reductions in pain and perceived lumbar stiffness in elderly patients with LCS. Controlled studies are required to determine its independent and long-term effects.Keywords: Lumbar canal stenosis (LCS); TECAR; Lumbar stiffness; Low back pain.