Chronic Low Back Pain with Early-Onset Spinal Intervertebral Disc Degeneration in Adolescence: A Case of Pain Management Using Sling Based Rehabilitation

Abstract

Low back pain (LBP) is a leading cause of global disability. Although LBP from intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is typically age-related, early-onset IDD is increasingly seen in young adults. Sling-based rehabilitation enhances neuromuscular control and core stability, offering a non-invasive option to reduce pain and improve function in LBP. This case highlights unrecognized early structural degeneration in young adults and demonstrates sling therapy's effectiveness as a movement-centered intervention for chronic LBP. A 26-year-old female presented with a 13-year history of intermittent LBP, worsened by prolonged sitting, poor posture, and high-level exercise (Muay Thai, gym training). Prior treatments (oral analgesics, passive modalities) failed. Examination revealed anterior pelvic tilt, hyperlordosis, gluteal/hip flexor weakness, and left sacroiliac dysfunction. MRI showed degenerative disc disease at L4–5/L5–S1, Schmorl's nodes at L2–3/L5–S1, and central protrusions without nerve compression. Initial management included pharmacotherapy, TENS, ultrasound, and infrared. A sling-based program targeted core stabilization and posture correction. Pain reduced and trunk control improved within 2–3 weeks; significant functional gains occurred by 4–6 weeks.