Effectiveness of a Visual Feedback Exercise Program Following Lumbar Surgery
Efficacy of Laser Pointer-Guided Visual Feedback Stabilization Exercise Program After Lumbar Microdiscectomy Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Suleyman Demirel University
42 participants
Jan 16, 2026
INTERVENTIONAL
Conditions
Summary
The aim of this study is to compare the effectiveness of stabilization exercises performed with visual feedback guided by a laser pointer after lumbar microdiscectomy surgery with that of standard stabilization exercises. The study, planned as a randomized controlled trial, will include 42 individuals aged 18-65 who have undergone lumbar microdiscectomy. Participants will be divided into two groups: a control group and a laser-guided exercise group. Both groups will undergo supervised stabilization exercises 3 days a week for 8 weeks, starting from the 6th postoperative week. The outcome measures were defined as pain, disability, back awareness, trunk muscle endurance, reaction time, balance, function, and lumbar proprioception. The findings are expected to demonstrate the effectiveness of visual feedback-assisted stabilization exercises in postoperative rehabilitation and contribute to clinical practice.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria3
- To be between 18 and 65 years of age
- Patients who underwent lumbar microdiscectomy surgery
- Individuals who are literate in Turkish
Exclusion Criteria8
- Patients who have previously undergone lumbar disc herniation surgery
- The surgical procedure involving fusion has been performed.
- Having a body mass index above 30
- Suspected or confirmed tumors in the lumbar spine and spinal canal
- Severe heart failure and cerebrovascular accident
- The presence of cauda equina syndrome and concomitant diseases of the lumbar spine
- The presence of heart conditions, orthopedic contraindications, or systemic diseases that could prevent participation in the exercise program
- Refusing to participate in the study
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Interventions
Participants undergo supervised stabilization exercises for a total of 24 sessions over 8 weeks, starting 6 weeks after lumbar microdiscectomy surgery, 3 days a week. The exercises will be performed with visual feedback provided by a laser pointer placed on the lumbar region. Participants will be asked to keep the laser pointer fixed on a designated point or line on the reference diagram in front of them during the exercises. The program includes posterior pelvic tilt, partial sit-ups, bird-dog, abdominal bracing in the supine position (progression with limb movements), straight and side planks, bridge building, pelvic floor, and diaphragmatic breathing exercises. Repetitive exercises will be performed in 3 sets of 10 repetitions, while plank exercises will initially be performed in 3 repetitions of 15-30 seconds, with progression based on the individual's performance and weeks. All participants will be provided with a post-operative training program in video format.
Starting 6 weeks after surgery, a supervised stabilization exercise program consisting of 24 sessions over 8 weeks, 3 days a week, will be implemented. The same exercises as in the laser group will be performed, but without the use of visual feedback. All participants will be provided with a post-operative training program in video format.
Locations(1)
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NCT07382830