TREATMENT OF NON-SPECIFIC CHRONIC LOW BACK PAIN: RESISTANCE TRAINING WITH OR WITHOUT USING WEIGHTS?

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction: Dysfunction of the core muscles contributes to the persistence of pain in patients with chronic low back pain. Evidence shows that the active approach is beneficial in the rehabilitation of these patients. However, there is uncertainty as to the most effective methods or form of exercise, as the literature offers little guidance in this regard. Objective: To analyze and compare the impact on quality of life, function, flexibility, abdominal strength and abdominal fat rate in patients with non-specific chronic low back pain after a program of resistance training using two different forms of exercise. Methods: Thirty individuals, aged between 18 and 65 years, participated in the study. Twenty performed physical training program twice a week for eight weeks, and ten did not perform any physical exercises, but received guidance and pain relief. The physically active individuals were randomly divided in two groups and received similar resistance training, focusing on the same muscle groups. Ten performed training with dumbbells and bodybuilding machines (TRCP) and ten did not use this equipment (TRSP). All were assessed before and after the intervention, through questionnaires on quality of life and function, and tests for flexibility, abdominal strength and measurement of the abdominal fat rate. Results: In the intra-group comparison (initial vs eight weeks), there were no significant differences in quality of life in any of the groups. However, regarding function, the three groups showed significant improvement, with TRSP showing the best evolution. For flexibility and abdominal strength gain, TRCP showed the best evolution in both instruments. For decrease in abdominal fat rate, only TRCP showed significant differences. In the intergroup comparison, there were no significant differences for any of the evaluated outcomes. Conclusion: The two exercise programs were effective in improving function, flexibility and abdominal strength in patients with chronic, non-specific low back pain. However, there were no statistically significant differences in any of the outcomes in the comparison between groups. Level evidence II, Comparative prospective study.