Motor Control Exercises With Real-time Ultrasound Feedback for Managing Pain and Disability Among Patients With Chronic Non-specific Low Back Pain
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Abstract
Introduction: Non-specific Low Back Pain (NSLBP) is the fifth leading cause of absenteeism from workplace and its considered quite challenging to treat in physical-therapy because of the nature of recurrence. Among the wide range of exercises, identifying the most suitable patient-centric exercise is crucial in relieving symptoms. This study aims to assess the changes following administering motor control exercises (MCE) providing appropriate biofeedback, on pain and functional activity among patients with chronic NSLBP. Materials and methods: This quasi-experimental study with consecutive sampling had a control and experimental group with forty-eight participants in each group. The control group received lumbar stabilization exercises (LSE) and experimental group received MCE with real-time ultrasound (RTUS) biofeedback for a period of 8 weeks. The subjects were measured for pain and functional activity using Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Results: Results of within group analysis of NPRS and ODI scores revealed that there was a significant difference in both groups which means both interventions were effective. However, between-group analysis revealed that from baseline homogeneity, there was a significant difference between two groups at the end of intervention with experimental group subjects displaying less pain and disability compared to the control group. Conclusion: This study concluded that MCE administered with RTUS biofeedback was significantly more effective than LSE in reducing pain and functional disability in patients with chronic NSLBP. Enhanced motor control precision through biofeedback may help physiotherapists to tailor interventions more effectively, making it a valuable addition to physical-therapy protocols for chronic NSLBP.
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