Efficiency of William’s versus McKenzie’s therapy for patients diagnosed with low back pain

Abstract

From the category of musculoskeletal disorders, lumbar pathology registered a 50% increase between 1990 and 2019, directly correlated with an age decrease for the onset of symptoms among patients diagnosed with lumbar pain. Consequently, we are witnessing a younger population experiencing lumbar pain and at times, functional disability. According to statistical analysis, the economic impact of low back pain (LBP) in highly industrialized countries produces costs of up to 134 billion dollars annually. In this context, the appropriate therapeutic approach of LBP becomes a factor of major interest. This review uses 137 primary articles and specialized literature published between 2010-2022. Article selection was based on keywords and focused on comparing the effectiveness of William's and McKenzie's exercises. As the two rehabilitation programs are founded on different principles - William's therapy emphasizes flexion exercises while McKenzie's therapy focuses on extension exercises - patient assessment was conducted using evaluation scales. The evaluation employed the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Index (OSLBPDI), and the Short Form 36 (SF 36). The comparative analysis revealed modified scale scores following completion of the therapeutic protocol: 50-65% reduction in pain, 10-40 % increase in flexibility, and significant improvement in mental state. Based on these findings, an advancement in the patient’s condition can be observed for both William’s and McKenzie protocols. Nonetheless, the reviewed articles underscore the importance of selecting and adapting the therapeutic approach to the characteristics of lumbar pain.