Surgeons frequently experience chronic spinal pain due to prolonged static postures and repetitive movements during surgical procedures. Exercise therapy is recommended, but it is unclear which type of exercise is most effective for this population.
This randomized clinical trial will compare Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT), also known as the McKenzie Method, with a structured program of generalized exercise in surgeons with chronic spinal pain who demonstrate a directional preference (i.e., movement in a specific direction that reduces symptoms).
Participants will be randomly assigned to one of the two interventions and followed for 26 weeks. The primary outcome is spinal pain intensity at 12 weeks measured on a 0-10 scale. Secondary outcomes include function, quality of life, and psychological factors.
This pragmatic trial is conducted in outpatient physiotherapy settings and aims to determine whether an individualized exercise approach (MDT) is more effective than generalized exercise in this occupational group.
Age 25-70 years
Currently working as a resident, fellow, or attending surgeon
Chronic spinal pain (low back, thoracic, or neck) lasting more than 3 months
Demonstrated directional preference on standardized clinical examination (i.e., movement in a specific direction reduces symptoms)
Serious spinal pathology (e.g., fracture, malignancy, infection, inflammatory disease)
Cauda equina syndrome
Significant neurological deficits requiring urgent medical attention
Any diagnosed medical condition preventing safe participation in physical activity
Claus Kjærgaard
Lead sponsor
Aalborg University Hospital
Sponsor institution
Aalborg University
Collaborator