Effect of Core Stabilization Exercises on Muscle Tenderness in Patients with Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 National institute of Longevity Elder Sciences NILES, Beni-Suef university

2 Basic Science Department, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Suez University

3 Cardiovascular/Respiratory Disorder and Geriatrics ,faculty of physical therapy , Egyptian Chinese University.

4 Department of Physical Therapy for neurology Faculty of Physical Therapy, Suez University

Abstract

Background: Core stability exercises seek to restore normal muscle function to enhance spinal stability and neuromuscular control in the lumbopelvic area.
Objectives of the study: To investigate the impact of core stabilization exercises on muscle tenderness among patients having chronic nonspecific low back pain.
Material and Methods: Fifty patients of both sexes suffering from chronic nonspecific low back pain were recruited and distributed randomly into the control (group A) and experimental group (group B). Group B was given regulated traditional therapy as well as core stabilization exercises. Only conventional treatment was administered to Group A. Both groups received the same treatment for six weeks. The assessment was conducted before and after 6 weeks for both groups.
Group B included 25 subjects who received conventional treatment in the form of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, continuous ultrasound, and core stabilizing exercises. Group A included 25 subjects who were given only conventional treatment. Both groups received the intervention for six weeks, three sessions per week. The pain pressure threshold of paraspinal muscles was assessed using a manual pressure algometer before and following a six-week intervention for both groups.
Results as compared to the control group (Group A), paraspinal muscle tenderness at the lumbar region in the experimental group (Group B) Unpaired t-test revealed a substantial difference among 2 groups with p-value < 0.05.
Conclusion: Core stabilization exercises are effective in the improvement of muscle tenderness among patients suffering from chronic non-specific low back pain

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