Spine-related complaints are highly prevalent in a variety of populations. Low back pain is the most common musculoskeletal problem globally and is the leading cause of activity limitations at work. 1-7 Neck pain is also a leading cause of years lived with disability internationally.1-7 Spine-related pain may be produced by a myriad of mechanisms and present with variable symptoms. This is especially true for those suffering with chronic, recurrent episodes of spine pain. However, one thing that remains consistent in those experiencing spine-related pain episodes, is that these individuals commonly demonstrate decreased paraspinal strength and increased fatty infiltration in the affected area.8-10 This is why it is important to use methods that specifically target paraspinal strengthening and re-education during the rehabilitation process.
One of the challenges in providing care for people with spine-related complaints is the inability to accurately measure and exercise the tissue/musculature that is critical to protecting the affected region. MedX equipment was created in order to address this problem. This equipment provides a superior strategy in training the paraspinal musculature as well as testing and measuring paraspinal strength for the return-to-activity decision making process.11-15 The use of a unique restraint system, counterbalancing mechanism, and variable resistance cam, allows for optimal recruitment of the paraspinal musculature while providing the safest environment possible for spine-pain patients.14 It has been shown that the use of isolated lumbar and cervical exercise like MedX can lead to reduced pain levels, improved functional capacity, and long-lasting positive outcomes for several types of populations.11-13,15 It can often provide better results than traditional stabilization exercises or passive techniques due to the isolated exercise creating long-lasting adaptations.13, 16, 17 Isometric testing on the MedX equipment provides an avenue to identify high-risk populations and potentially address strength deficits before a pain episode or spinal injury presents itself. This testing can also provide a clinician with a road map to properly program for a patient throughout the entire rehabilitation process. Due to the specificity of testing and exercise on MedX equipment, the clinician can have a patient exercise at the minimally clinically important dosage at every visit and reduce the chances for over-training or creating an inflammatory response.
While MedX provides an excellent strategy in the rehabilitation and testing of spine-related complaints, there have been significant technology advances and requirements since the inauguration of these machines. This is where BioneX® provides a solution. BioneX® software integrates seamlessly into any MedX medical machine in order to provide a more data-driven and user-friendly approach in the rapidly growing healthcare technology landscape. The software offers capabilities like wireless connectivity for ease of use in any facility, improved data reports that enhance clinical decision-making, and secured data that is HIPAA compliant.
BioneX® now offers a way to optimize the use of MedX machines and gather clinical data that is critical for patient advancement, insurance authorization, and enhancing patient satisfaction/engagement. The efficacy of isolated exercise and testing on these machines has long been supported. It is now possible to enjoy the benefits of MedX in a streamlined and updated way with BioneX® software!
References
Recent Comments