The effects of stabilization exercise on pain, functional disability and muscle endurance in patients suspectedto lumbar segmental instability

AbstractIntroduction: Lumbar segmental instability is one of the subgroups of non specific chronic low back pain and it seems that 30-40% of patients with LBP suffer from lumbar segmental instability. Pain intensity, functional disability and reduced muscle endurance are common in such patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of stabilization exercise on pain, functional disability and muscle endurance in patients suspected to lumbar segmental instability Material & methods: Following ethical approval, a randomized clinical trial was carried out on 30 patients suspected to lumbar segmental instability ranging from 18-45 years old. They were randomly divided into two groups; the first group underwent routine exercise only while the second group performed routine exercise plus stabilization training for 8 weeks. Outcome measure included pain intensity, functional disability, and flexion and extension range of motion and flexor, extensor and side support muscle endurance which were evaluated before and after treatment. Data were analyzed using paired t test and independent t test.Results: Muscle endurance and flexion range of motion increased in both groups although the increase was higher in stabilization training group (p=0.00). Pain intensity and functional disability significantly decreased in both groups (p=0.00), but decreasing of pain intensity and functional disability were more in stabilization training group (p=0.00). Conclusion: Stabilization training is more effective than routine exercise in improvement of pain intensity, functional disability, muscle endurance and range of motion in patients suspected to lumbar segmental instability. J Mazand Univ Med Sci 2008; 18(65): 63-73 (Persian