Effectiveness of segmental stabilization and general lumber stabilization exercises in chronic low back pain: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background: Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition that significantly impacts functional ability and quality of life. Exercise-based interventions are essential in managing CLBP by improving spinal stability and reducing pain. Segmental stabilization exercises (SSE) target deep stabilizing muscles, aiming to enhance motor control and reduce spinal micro-instability, whereas general lumbar stabilization (GLS) exercises focus on overall core muscle activation to improve spinal support. 

Objective: to determine the effectiveness of segmental stabilization exercises and general stabilization exercises in chronic low back pain patients. 

Methodology: A randomized controlled trial was conducted on n=44 participants with chronic low back pain patients at Isra University, Islamabad, and Benazir Bhutto Hospital, Rawalpindi, from January 2020 – August 2020. The participants were recruited through a non-probability convenient sampling technique and divided into two groups, n=22 participants in each group. The experimental group received Segmental Stabilization Exercises (SSE) while the control group received General Lumbar Stabilization (GLS). Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was used to determine the severity or level of pain, a goniometer was used to measure the Range of Motion (ROM), Oswestry Disability Scale (ODI), was used to determine the severity or level of disability. The Friedman test with Wilcoxon was used within the group analysis whereas the Mann-Whitney U test was used for between the groups analysis.

Results: Both interventions SSE and GLS, significantly reduced (p<0.05) pain intensity and physical disability on ODI and its domains over time by the end of 4th week. Meanwhile, the between-group analysis revealed no statistically significant differences (p≥0.05).

Conclusion: SSE and GLSE significantly improve pain and disability scores over four weeks. However, the lack of significant between-group differences suggests that both interventions have comparable efficacy.