Pilate mat exercise versus muscle energy technique on chronic non specific low back pain

Abstract

Background: Many studies have been performed to evaluate the best physical therapy technique for treating chronic nonspecific low back pain. Pilate exercises and muscle energy techniques showed favorable results in many trials. Yet, no comparisons were conducted to compare their effects. Purpose: To compare between the effects of pilate mat exercise (PME) and Muscle energy technique (MET) on pain intensity, functional disability, trunk range of motion, and flexibility in patients with chronic non specific low back pain. Subjects: seventy-eight patients diagnosed, by their orthopedist, with chronic non specific low back pain participated in this study. Methods: Patients were divided randomly into three groups: Pilate group: consisted of 29 patients who received PME and standard treatment, MET group: consisted of 29 patients who received MET treatment and standard treatment, Control group: consisted of 29 patients who received standard treatment only. Interventions were performed for 12 sessions (3 sessions/ week) over a period of four weeks. Outcomes were assessed at the beginning and at the end of the fourth week using visual analogue scale for pain intensity, V-sit and reach test (VSR) for flexibility of hamstring and lower back muscles.