[Results of the psychologic evaluation of herniated disk patients. Personality structure and life status in relation to course]

32 patients with lumbar disc herniation were assessed by the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) and a psychiatric interview. After 1-2 years the final result was analysed. The MMPI profiles of the two groups with good or moderate to bad final result did not differ significantly and were within the normal range. The psychiatric evaluation showed in the majority of cases unusual personality factors. 23 of the 32 patients were in a critical life situation, so that it seems, that also in a disease with well known structural lesions, psychological factors may play a part in manifestation. The duration of the case history was markedly shorter in the group with moderate final result. After 1-2 years all patients except 1 were able to work or were retired. Gymnastics and sport were performed regularly only by about 1/3 of all patients.