Effect of a Complex Korean Medicine Treatment in a Patient with Chronic Ischemic Stroke Who Developed Neurological Complications after Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion: A Case Report

Stroke is a considerable cause of death; patients with stroke require continuous treatment. The recovery rates dramatically decline in the chronic phase (6 months post-onset), making it difficult to achieve meaningful therapeutic effects. Posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) is used to correct deformities in spinal disorders, but it can induce chronic radiculopathy, necessitating prolonged treatment. We report the effectiveness of complex Korean medicine treatment in a patient with chronic stroke and post-PLIF complications. The patient presented with right hemiparesis, low back pain, and bilateral radiculopathy. She underwent > 100 days of treatments, including acupuncture, cupping, herbal medicine, and physiotherapy. Her right handgrip strength and hip flexion improved from grade 1+ to 2+ and from grade 2+/3- to 4/5, respectively. The score on the Korean version of the Modified Barthel Index increased from 32 to 42. Given the treatment challenges in chronic stroke with overlapping symptoms, complex Korean medicine may improve the outcomes.