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VOL. 13, ISSUE 2 (2026)
Community-based screening and physiotherapy intervention for lower back pain with radiculopathy in a rural population
Authors
Rishika Gurung, Suvarna Suman, Dr. Apoorva Tiwari P T
Abstract

Background: One of the main causes of disability in the globe is lower back pain with radiculopathy (LBPR), which is frequently caused by compression or irritation of the lumbar nerve roots. Due to physically demanding jobs, a lack of knowledge about ergonomics, delayed diagnosis, and difficult access to physiotherapy services, rural populations are especially vulnerable. Through early screening, education, and exercise-based treatment, community-based physiotherapy interventions can aid in the reduction of impairment.

Methodology: Between July 15 and July 24, 2025, a community-based interventional study was carried out at Tugalpur, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. Participating in the program were twenty adults between the ages of 25 and 55 who complained of lower back discomfort, either with or without radiating symptoms. The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and Straight Leg Raise (SLR) test were used for baseline and post-intervention evaluations. Over the course of five community visits, participants received physical therapy instruction, ergonomic training, posture correction techniques, neural mobilization, and core strengthening exercises.

Results: Participants' pain and functional impairment significantly improved after the intervention. The proportion of individuals with ODI scores higher than 40% dropped from 70% to 25%. Positive SLR results decreased from 55% to 20%, whereas participants with VAS scores higher than 6 decreased from 75% to 30%. Additionally, participants reported increased knowledge of safe lifting practices, symptom treatment, and posture correction.

Conclusion: In rural areas, lumbar radiculopathy-related pain and disability can be considerably reduced by community-based physiotherapy screening and educational initiatives. In underprivileged populations, early detection, ergonomic awareness, and exercise-based physiotherapy management can improve quality of life and functional independence.
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Pages:384-389
How to cite this article:
Rishika Gurung, Suvarna Suman, Dr. Apoorva Tiwari P T "Community-based screening and physiotherapy intervention for lower back pain with radiculopathy in a rural population". International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Development, Vol 13, Issue 2, 2026, Pages 384-389
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