Revita Rehab, located in the University District, is pleased to announce their involvement in a clinical research study for the conservative treatment of low back pain as an alternative to lumbar surgery. Revita Rehab has been operating for the past year providing therapy to patients with low back pain utilizing the clinical protocols which are now being tested in the clinical trials. The clinic utilizes equipment patented by Pneumex, Inc. as an alternative to lumbar surgery.

Purpose of the Study

To evaluate if alternate physical therapy is more effective than standard physical therapy and if it may reduce the need for surgical interventions for some patients.

  • Objective #1- To compare radiographic images of patients from MRI and plain X-rays prior to and after completion of a course of standard physical therapy or Alternative Therapy to determine if there are radiographic changes following treatment.
  • Objective #2- To determine the effectiveness of each group based on ODI and ZCQ scores of patients throughout their course of therapy and for up to one year after completions of therapy.
  • Objective #3- To determine if the percentage of patients who do not obtain relief of their symptoms from either type of therapy and move on to surgical intervention, to determine if there is a statistical difference between the two therapy types and this outcome.

Inclusion Criteria

  • Are between 25 and 65 years of age
  • Have had an MRI in the past six months which confirms indications for lumbar surgery
  • Can participate in 10 weeks of physical therapy

Exclusion Criteria

  • Evidence of a progressive or debilitative medical condition (such as metastatic cancer, major stroke, unstable angina, etc…)
  • Currently using smoking/tobacco products
  • Have had lower back surgery
  • Use devices to assist with walking or standing
  • Pregnant

Lead and Co-Investigators

Dean Martz, M.D. Neurosurgeon is serving as the principal investigator for the study and is joined by partners at Inland Neurosurgery and Spine Associates, Dr. William Keyes, Neuroradiologist and Dr. Stefan Humphries, Physiatrist Medical Director for St. Lukes Rehabilitation Hospital who are co-investigators.

Revita Rehab

The study is being conducted at Revita Rehab at 1421 N. Mullan Rd., Suite B, Spokane Valley, WA 99206. Please call us at (509) 343-3150 or toll-free (855) 878-8722 for more information.