Core Stability Exercises Research Articles

Core stabilization exercise is potentially an optimal exercise for hemodialysis patients

Core stabilization exercise is potentially an optimal exercise for hemodialysis patients

Effects of percussive massage therapy on fascia echo intensity and fascia thickness in firefighters with chronic non-specific low back pain: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundChronic non-specific low back pain (CNSLBP) is prevalent among firefighters and may negatively affect their job performance. Alterations in the thoracolumbar fascia (TLF) structure are associated with CNSLBP. Percussive massage therapy (PT) has demonstrated potential in modifying fascial properties and alleviating pain. However, its effects on TLF structure in CNSLBP patients have not been thoroughly investigated. This study evaluates the effects of 6 weeks of PT on TLF echo intensity, thickness, pain, and disability in firefighters with CNSLBP, utilizing ultrasound imaging as a primary assessment tool.MethodsThis six-week randomized controlled trial involved 38 firefighters with CNSLBP. Participants were randomly assigned 1:1 to either the PT group (receiving PT and core stability exercise) or the control group (receiving only core stability exercise). TLF echo intensity and thickness were measured using ultrasound imaging, and disability was assessed using the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMQ) at baseline and post-intervention. Pain was measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at baseline, immediately after the first intervention, three weeks post-intervention, and post-intervention. Paired t-tests were conducted to analyze within-group changes in RMQ and ultrasound data, while ANCOVA was used to assess between-group differences, and repeated measures ANOVA for VAS scores.ResultsParticipants in the PT and control groups were aged 26.6±4.1 and 23.6±1.7 years, respectively, with BMI of 23.1±1.8 and 21.8±1.2 kg/m². The PT group showed significant reductions in bilateral TLF echo intensity post-intervention (left side: mean difference -6.4, 95% CI -9.7 to -3.1, p < 0.001, effect size 0.67; right side: mean difference -7.6, 95% CI -11.8 to -3.3, p < 0.01, effect size 0.60). Changes in TLF thickness were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The PT group demonstrated significantly lower VAS scores than the control group (mean difference - 0.626, 95% CI -1.087 to -0.165, p = 0.009, effect size 0.63). RMQ scores decreased by -1.3 (95% CI -2.1 to -0.4, p < 0.01, effect size 0.5).ConclusionSix weeks of percussive massage therapy significantly reduced thoracolumbar fascia echo intensity, alleviated pain, and improved functional disability in firefighters with chronic non-specific low back pain, but was not effective in altering fascia thickness. Percussive massage therapy emerges as an effective and safe strategy for managing chronic non-specific low back pain in firefighters.Trial registrationRetrospectively registered in Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR20221223001) on December 22, 2022.

Effects of adding core stability training to conventional rehabilitation protocol on shoulder function after rotator cuff repair

Background. Rotator cuff tear (RCT) is a prevalent cause leading to shoulder disability and is widely recognized as one of the primary causes of pain as well as dysfunction in the shoulder. The core stabilization exercise program improved the strength of the shoulder muscles. The core stability training (CST) may be utilized during the early phases of shoulder rehabilitation. Purpose. To assess the impacts of adding CST to the conventional rehabilitation protocol on function, proprioception, as well as range of motion (ROM) of shoulder joint following rotator cuff repair (RCR). Methods. Fifty-two participants after RCR were assigned to two groups in a random manner; group I (n = 26) and group II (n = 26). Participants in groups I and II were engaged in a conventional rehabilitation protocol for 12 weeks after RCR. Group II additionally performed CST after the 8th week until the 12th week of RCR. Outcome measures were shoulder function using the Arabic shoulder pain and disability index (SPADI), shoulder joint position sense (JPS) (proprioception accuracy through detecting absolute angle of error) using digital inclinometer, ROM in shoulder flexion, abduction, internal rotation, as well as external rotation using the digital inclinometer. Unpaired t-test, chi square, and MANOVA test were implemented for data analysis. Results. Compared to the pre-treatment condition, the post treatment results revealed that there were statistical substantial improvements (p &lt; 0.05) in SPADI score, absolute angle of error, and ROM flexion, abduction, external rotation and internal rotation) in both groups, even though there were substantial differences among both groups at all post-treatment measures (p &lt; 0.05) in favor of group II. Conclusion. Incorporating CST into the conventional rehabilitation protocol after RCR leads to notable enhancements in shoulder joint function, proprioception, and ROM for flexion, abduction, internal rotation, as well as external rotation.

Effect of Core Stability Exercise and Treadmill Training on Balance in a patient with Cerebellar Ataxic Cerebral palsy- A Case Report

Cerebral palsy (CP) is defined as a set of developmental illnesses that affect posture and mobility, causing activity restriction owing to abnormalities that are not progressive in the developing brain of the fetus or neonate. Children with cerebellar ataxic CP often exhibit undeveloped or malformed cerebellar structures, resulting in challenges for the cerebellum to integrate the neural input required to control movement and balance smoothly. Patients with cerebellar ataxic cerebral palsy have difficulty in maintaining balance and trunk control which leads to difficulty in performing their activities of daily living and result in dependency. Thus, reporting cases like these is crucial to evaluate the impact of core stabilization intervention and treadmill walking on balance in a child having cerebellar ataxic cerebral palsy. A 7-year-old female child born at full term delivered via normal vaginal delivery with a birth weight of 2700 gm had no difficulties during antenatal, natal or postnatal phases. At the age of 6 years, mother noticed that the child had difficulty in standing and walking independently, she had difficulty in performing her activities of daily living independently. The patient underwent an 8-week intervention consisting of core stabilization exercise protocol and treadmill walking along with traditional physiotherapy intervention. The outcome measures included Pediatric Balance Scale for static balance and MFT for dynamic balance. The patient showed significant improvement in both static as well as dynamic balance following the intervention. Thus, combined impact of core stabilization exercise protocol and treadmill walking can bring early effective changes on balance in a patient with cerebellar ataxic cerebral palsy.

Physical therapy in a patient with viral -encephalitis hemi-paresis: A Case report

The purpose of the rehabilitation program is to improve motor skills, coordination, sensory system, mobilization and other existing disorders to achieve activity of daily living (ADL). Physical therapy as part of the multidisciplinary approach can provide core stability exercises, muscular facilitation and stimulation of motion of the upper and lower extremities, balance exercises and mobility exercises, as well as strengthening exercises with PNF facilitation and active stimulation techniques and using the patient's body weight as a training burden. Bobath approach and facilitation exercise can reduce spasticity by strengthening the antagonist muscles. MMT right upper extremity 3/5, left upper extremity 4/5, right lower extremity 2/5, and left lower extremity 3/5. Ashworth scale right upper extremity 1/4, right lower extremity 2/4, and left lower extremity 1/4. Clonus is reduced, the patient can stand with maximum support without clonus for 10 minutes. Trunk impairment scale 12/23 and Barthel index 65/100. Anthropometric examination showed differences in the circumference of the lower extremities, namely the right patella circumference 34-32 cm left, right upper leg 39 cm-left 37 cm, and left lower leg 29-24 cm. Mobilize the patient to a laying position with minimal assistance. Mobilization of the patient is being able to sit with minimal assistance, namely stabilization in the pelvis, sitting to standing with moderate support, which is supported at the knee bilaterally, and standing with support at the knee and pelvic for 10 minutes. This case report concludes that although physiotherapy is done late with strengthening exercise and core stability strengthening techniques, lying down strengthening exercise, it can improve motor skills, coordination, which in turn will increase the patient's independence in carrying out functional activities and ADLs.

Validation of a laser visual feedback and core stability exercise programme to improve lateropulsion reduction and pushing intensity in stroke patients with pusher syndrome: A Delphi study.

The patient with pusher syndrome (PS) is characterized by showing postural control alterations due to a lack of perception of his own body in the space. It appears when the patient actively pushes with his unaffected limbs towards the injured side, reacting with resistance to passive straightening towards the midline. Between 10% and 50% of strokes present PS. Nowadays, there is no clearly defined treatment for PS. To design and validate an exercise program using visual feedback and specific core stability exercises (FeViCoS) for the treatment of patients with PS. Validation was conducted by expert consensus using the Delphi method. Thirteen neurorehabilitation experts participated in the process. An online questionnaire with 18 Likert-type questions was used to evaluate the designed program. Consensus was considered reached if there was convergence between the quartile 1 and 3 values (RIQ=Q1-Q3) or if the relative interquartile range (RIR) was less than 20%. The degree of agreement between experts was measured by calculating the Fleiss' kappa coefficient. A total of 2 rounds were required to achieve 97.44% consensus with 100% participation. The RIR was less than or equal to 20% for all questions. The Fleiss' kappa index (0.831) showed that the degree of agreement between experts was excellent. Neurorehabilitation experts considered FeViCoS valid for the therapeutic approach to patients with PS. Expert consensus suggests a novel strategy in physical therapy clinical practice to improve balance and postural orientation in patients with subacute stroke and PS.

Effectiveness of Mulligan Mobilization Technique and Core Stabilization Exercises in Female Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Single-Blind Study

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of the Mulligan mobilization (MM) technique and Core stabilization (CS) exercises added to the conventional physiotherapy (CP) program in female patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). MethodsThe study included 42 female patients diagnosed with bilateral KOA. Participants were randomly divided into 3 groups as CP group (mean age: 57.79 ± 7.43 years), MM group (mean age: 56.14 ± 6.95 years), and CS group (mean age: 54.36 ± 6.56 years). They were divided into 3 groups and treated 3 sessions per week for 4 weeks. Pain intensity, range of motion (ROM), and muscle strength were evaluated with visual analog scale, universal goniometer, and handheld dynamometer, respectively. Balance, aerobic capacity, and functional level were assessed with 30-second sit-to-stand test, 6-minute walk test, and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index. The quality of life of the participants was evaluated with the Nottingham Health Profile. ResultsAfter treatment, significant improvement was achieved in the all parameters evaluated in the groups (P < .05). CS was found to be more effective in reducing resting pain intensity than the other two treatment approaches (P = .001). It was observed that MM technique increased knee flexion ROM more (P = .001). There was no superiority of MM group and CS group over each other in balance, functional level, aerobic capacity, and quality of life assessments (P > .05). ConclusionOur study showed that CP, MM technique, and CS exercises were effective treatment approaches in the management of KOA in female patients. Results revealed that the MM technique was more effective in increasing knee flexion ROM, and the CS exercise was more effective in reducing resting pain intensity in female patients with KOA.

The Comparison of Scar Mobilization Techniques with and without Core Stability Exercises on Scar Tissue Mobility and Lumbopelvic Pain

Abdominal adhesions and lumbopelvic pain can occur after a caesarean section. Many treatment approaches, such as injections, massage, surgical release, soft tissue release, strengthening, stretching and core stability exercises are available for abdominal scars. Physiotherapy treatments are considered safer and more convenient. The study aims to compare the effects of scar mobilization techniques with and without core stability exercises on scar tissue mobility and lumbopelvic pain. The study was a randomized clinical trial conducted at the Rafiqa Hospital and Fatima Hospital, Sargodha, Pakistan. A sample of 30 participants was allocated in Group A and B. Group A received scar mobilization and core stability exercises, while Group B received only scar mobilization, with both groups undergoing 3 sessions per week for total three weeks. The groups were assessed at baseline after the 5th and 9th sessions, using Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire (ODI), Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Manual Scar Mobility Testing (MSMT), and Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS). Moreover, the data were analyzed using SPSS 25. The mean age of participants was 27.22 ± 4.21, and their body mass index was 27.10 ± 3.53. Both groups showed significant differences within the subject’s scores of disability, pain and scar mobility (p&lt;0.05). Between-group comparison of both groups at post-treatment II showed considerable improvement in pain scores (NPRS score, p&lt;0.05). Whereas non-significant results were in other outcome measures (disability and scar mobility p&gt;0.05) in post-treatment II. Scar mobilization techniques with core stability exercises were more effective than scar mobilization techniques alone in the conservative treatment of females with lumbopelvic and scar pain after caesarean section.

Conservative treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS): A narrative review of current evidence and implications for clinical practice

Introduction and purpose: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is characterized by lateral curvature, vertebral rotation, and disruption of physiological curvature of the spine with the Cobb angle ≥10°. AIS affects 1-3% of children aged 10-16 years, representing the most common form of idiopathic scoliosis. Diagnosis of AIS is by exclusion and can be suspected based on Adams forward bend test and scoliometer. Untreated AIS can lead to serious consequences, such as progression of the deformity, back pain, reduced respiratory and cardiovascular function. The aim of this review is to update overview of conservative treatment options. Description of the state of knowledge: AIS treatment guidelines from the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) and the Scientific Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT) advocate for observation, bracing, or surgery depending on curve severity, with a focus on avoiding spinal fusion when possible. Additionally, SOSORT recommends scoliosis-specific physiotherapy exercises for smaller curves or as an adjunct to bracing. Conservative treatment aims to prevent curve progression, manage respiratory and spinal complications, and improve quality of life. Conclusions: AIS can significantly impair the physical and psychosocial well-being of young patients, with potential long-term consequences extending into adulthood Individualized treatment plans and patient/parent education are crucial for optimal outcomes. Schroth exercises are superior to Core Stabilization (CS) exercises in reducing Cobb angle, trunk rotation and improving spinal mobility, cosmetic trunk deformities and quality of life. CS exercises are more effective in increasing peripheral muscle strength, reducing pain and correcting vertebral rotation.

Effect of Structured Core Stabilization Exercise Program on Pain and Muscle Performance in Individuals with Scapular Dyskinesia

Purpose: The purpose of this research was to determine the effect of structured core stabilization exercise program on pain and muscle performance in individuals with scapular dyskinesis. Methods: The study commenced obtaining ethical clearance from an institutional committee, briefing participants about the research and intervention, and obtaining informed consent. In accordance with the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 90 participants were enrolled for the research among which 80 participants enrolled in this study and were allocated into 2 groups at random- Group A (Control group) as well as Group B (Experimental group) by using the envelope method. Treatment was provided for about 6 weeks to both groups.Pre and post test examination was done using Individual Muscle Testing (IMT), core strength testing with Pressure Biofeedback (PB), shoulder joint range of motion (ROM) with Goniometry, in addition with Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain. Statistical methods were utilised to analyse the results. Findings: This research found substantial improvements in pain, individual muscle testing and shoulder range of motion for flexion and abduction in two groups (p-value

Exercise for patients with low back pain

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is a common symptom that imposes a significant socioeconomic burden. Appropriate exercises that enhance the recovery of anatomical structures using biomechanical methods and improve lumbar stability are recommended for patients with LBP. Therefore, clinicians should prescribe appropriate exercises to alleviate LBP, improve function, and prevent recurrence.Current Concepts: Individualized and structured multimodal exercises (strengthening, aerobic, core stability exercises, and stretching) under the supervision of healthcare professionals are recommended for patients with LBP. It is preferable to focus on isometric trunk muscle exercises for strengthening, and strengthening the large muscles (back and gluteal muscles) attached to the thoracolumbar fascia is recommended rather than exercises that involve repeated extension and flexion of the trunk muscles. Individualized aerobic and core stability exercises are recommended, and stretching exercises focusing on extension movements are preferred. It is also important to educate patients regarding the etiology of LBP, harmful postures for LBP, and methods to maintain lumbar lordosis in daily life.Discussion and Conclusion: An appropriate exercise prescription can contribute to better clinical outcomes in patients with LBP. Although exercise is important for recovery and prevention of recurrence, inappropriate exercise can potentially exacerbate LBP; therefore, careful consideration is required.

Comparing the Effectiveness of Aerobic and Core Stability Exercises on Balance in Older Adult Men

Introduction: Aging is associated with changes in the neuromusculoskeletal system, which can lead to impairments in balance. This study compares the effects of aerobic and core stability exercises on healthy older men’s static and dynamic balance. Materials and Methods: In this study, 30 adults aged 60 to 70 years were selected through purposive sampling and randomly divided into three groups as follows: aerobic exercises, core stability exercises, and a control group. The interventions were carried out separately for the two experimental groups over 6 weeks. Static balance was assessed using the Romberg and Sharpened Romberg balance tests, while dynamic balance was assessed using the functional reach and timed up-and-go tests. The data were analyzed using the one-way multivariate analysis of covariance test with the SPSS software, version 26. Results: The mean scores of post-tests for the balance tests in the two experimental groups improved compared to their pre-test scores and the post-test scores of the control group. Moreover, both aerobic and core stability exercises had a significant effect on the static and dynamic balance of the elderly (P=0.001). When examining the effects of exercises on dynamic balance, the findings showed a significant difference in favor of aerobic exercises compared to core stability exercises (P=0.017). However, no significant difference was observed concerning static balance (P=1.00) when comparing the effects of the exercises. Conclusion: Aerobic and core stability exercises have a positive impact on the static and dynamic balance of the elderly. Furthermore, for improving dynamic balance in older men, aerobic exercises appear to be more effective than core stability exercises.

Muscle thickness of lateral abdominal muscles in sitting and standing positions during abdominal drawing-in maneuver and abdominal bracing among healthy adults

Background: Spinal stabilization exercises, such as abdominal drawing maneuvers (ADIM) and abdominal bracing (AB), are crucial in alleviating low back pain, especially in functional positions such as sitting and standing. However, few studies have investigated the contraction patterns of the lateral abdominal muscles during ADIM and AB in these daily living positions (i.e., sitting and standing). Objective: The study aimed to investigate the thickness of transverse abdominis (TrA), internal abdominal oblique (IO), and external abdominal oblique (EO) during ADIM and AB between sitting and standing positions. Materials and methods: Twenty-four healthy adults (12 males, 12 females) without low back pain or other orthopedic conditions were assessed in sitting and standing positions while performing ADIM and AB. Real-time ultrasound imaging was used to measure the thickness of the TrA, IO, and EO during the ADIM and AB. Results: Muscle thickness of TrA and IO was significantly greater during ADIM when compared to AB (p&lt;0.05). TrA thickness during AB was significantly greater in sitting than standing (p&lt;0.05), but ADIM showed no difference in both positions. ADIM and AB can produce contraction of the lateral abdominal muscles (LAM) in both sitting and standing positions. Conclusion: ADIM and AB can produce contraction of the LAM in both sitting and standing positions. However, ADIM can activate TrA and IO muscles better than AB. Therefore, clinicians may initially consider using ADIM to teach individuals who need core stability exercises such as low back pain.

Comparative Impact of Core Stabilization vs Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Exercises on Muscle Activation, Endurance, and Balance in Obese Children: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND The purpose of the study was to compare the effects of core stabilization exercise (CSE) and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) exercise on core muscle activation, core muscle endurance, proprioception, and balance in 80 obese children. MATERIAL AND METHODS In this single-blind, randomized controlled study, 80 obese children aged 10-13 years were randomly divided into 3 groups. The first group received CSE (n=27) and the second group received PNF exercises (n=27) 3 days a week for 8 weeks. The third group, which was the control group (n=26), received no treatment. Participants were evaluated before treatment (BT) and after treatment (AT) and at follow-up (3 months after treatment). Core muscle activation level was evaluated by Sahrmann Core Stability test (SCST), lumbar core muscle endurance was evaluated by McGill core endurance tests, and lumbar joint position sense (JPS) was evaluated by laser cursor. The single-leg standing balance test (SLSBT) and Y balance test (YBT) were used for static and dynamic balance, respectively. RESULTS AT and at follow-up, core activation, core endurance, JPS, and static balance were significantly different between the groups (P<0.05). There was no significant difference between the groups in YBT dominant and non-dominant side mixed reach distances (P>0.05). Clinical effect sizes were higher in the CSE group for all outcome measures. CONCLUSIONS CSE and PNF exercises improve the level of core muscle activation, lumbar core muscle endurance, lumbar JPS, and balance in obese children. However, the results of this study show that CSE are more clinically effective in obese children. The effects decline in the medium term.

A Randomized Controlled Trial of Active Stretching of the Hamstrings and Core Control for Low Back Pain and Musculoskeletal Discomfort during Prolonged Sitting among Young People.

Introduction: Stretching exercises are important in both the prevention and treatment of nonspecific low back pain (NLBP). The aim of this trial was to determine whether an 8-week active hamstring stretching protocol combined with core stabilization and education regarding the maintenance of a neutral lumbar spine during activities could reduce NLBP and low back discomfort during prolonged sitting among young people. Methods: Participants (52 students aged 18-25) were randomly assigned to one of two groups: the Experimental group (the hamstring stretching group) and the Control group (only education). The intervention was conducted for 8 weeks. The primary outcome measures were pain intensity (VAS), low back discomfort (LBD), and functional disability (ODI). The secondary outcome measures were satisfaction with the intervention (GPE) and flexibility of the hamstring (SLR). Results: After the 8-week intervention in the E-group, results of VAS, ODI, and LBD were significantly lower comparing to baseline. In the C-group, no significant differences were observed. After the exercises program, there were differences between the E-group and C-group in VAS, LBD, GPE, and SLR tests (p < 0.05, p < 0.05, p < 0.05, and p < 0.0001, respectively). Conclusions: In conclusion, our study provides compelling evidence that an eight-week program of active hamstring stretching and core stabilization exercises can significantly reduce NLBP and musculoskeletal discomfort during prolonged sitting in young adults. These findings highlight the importance of targeted exercise interventions in managing and preventing NLBP, particularly among sedentary populations. Further research is warranted to confirm these findings and explore their applicability to broader populations and over extended periods.

MOBILE HEALTH APPS FOR THE SELF-MANAGEMENT OF LOW BACK PAIN: SYSTEMATIC SEARCH IN APP STORES AND CONTENT ANALYSIS

Purpose and BackgroundClinical practice guidelines (CPGs) recommend self-management for low back pain (LBP). Our recent narrative review on self-management needs revealed a consensus with respect to the critical components of self-management interventions. With mobile health advancements, apps offer innovative support for LBP management. This study aims to identify current apps for the self-management of LBP, assessing them for their quality, intervention content, theoretical approaches, and risk management approaches.Methods and ResultsWe identified 69 apps for LBP self-management from a systematic search in the UK iTunes and Google Play stores. The most recommended interventions are muscle stretching (n=51, 73.9%), muscle strengthening (n=42, 60.9%), and core stability exercises (n=32, 46.4%). The average MARS (SD) overall score for the included apps was 2.4 (0.44) out of a possible 5 points, with the engagement and information dimension scoring the lowest at 2.1. In terms of theoretical and risk management approaches, no apps offered a theoretical care model and all failed to specify the age group targeted; only one (1.4%) provided a tailored care approach; 18 (26.1%) included intervention progression; and 11 (15.9%) reported management safety checks.ConclusionThis study shows that app developers generally select interventions endorsed by CPGs. However, the application of a biopsychosocial care model is not being considered. Most of them are of low quality, lacking theoretical approaches to care and consideration of associated risks. It is essential to involve clinicians and patients in developing LBP self-management apps to improve the quality and related approach.Conflicts of interestNoneSources of fundingNo funding obtainedThis study has been published in JMIR mHealth and uHealth.

The effect of core stabilization exercises on balance and functional performance in individuals with functional ankle instability: An open-label randomized controlled trial

Objectives: The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of core stabilization exercises on balance and functional performance in functional ankle instability (FAI). Methods: An open-label randomized control pilot study was conducted with 30 FAI participants allocated to two groups. Inclusion criteria were the presence of frequent ankle sprains, sense of give-away of the ankle, and identification of FAI score &gt;11. The experimental group (n = 15) received core stabilization exercises along with conventional exercises, whereas the control group (n = 15) received only conventional exercises. The intervention period was six weeks. The outcome measures for static balance, dynamic balance, and functional performance were the single-leg stance test, modified star excursion balance test (mSEBT), and side hop test, respectively. The assessment was done at baseline and six weeks post-intervention. Results: Within-group analysis showed improvement in the single-leg stance test and all direction reach distances of mSEBT in both groups using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Meanwhile, the side hop test revealed no difference between the two groups. A significant improvement was seen in mSEBT and single-leg stance scores (P ≤ 0.05) between the groups using the Mann–Whitney U-test. However, the side hop test showed no significant difference (P &gt; 0.05). Conclusion: The present study concludes that core stabilization exercises improved balance compared to mobility and strengthening exercises. Hence, it is highly recommended that core stability training be implemented as a holistic approach to managing FAI.

Effect of exercise and manual therapy or kinesiotaping on sEMG and pain perception in chronic low back pain: a randomized trial

The importance of incorporating lumbo-pelvic stability core and controlling motor exercises in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP) reinforces the use of strategies to improve biopsychosocial beliefs by reducing biomedical postulations. However, clinical practice guidelines recommend multimodal approaches incorporating exercise and manual therapy (MT), and instead reject the application of kinesiotape (KT) in isolation. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to analyze the effects of 12 weeks of exercises combined with MT or KT on perceived low back pain using the visual analog scale (VAS) and muscle electric activity measured with electromyography (EMG) of the rectus abdominis and multifidus in CLBP (mild disability) and to explore the relationship between the rectus abdominis and multifidus ratios and pain perception after intervention. A blinded, 12-week randomized controlled trial (RCT) was carried out, involving three parallel groups of patients with CLBP. The study was registered at Clinicaltrial.gov and assigned the identification number NCT05544890 (19/09/22). The trial underwent an intention-to-treat analysis. The primary outcome revealed a multimodal treatment program supplemented by additional therapies such as MT and KT, resulting in significant reductions in perceived low back pain. The subjective assessment of individuals with CLBP indicated no discernible distinction between exclusive core stability exercises and control-motor training when combined with MT or KT. Notably, our findings demonstrated positive alterations in both the mean and peak EMG values of the right rectus abdominis in the exercise group, suggesting a beneficial impact on muscle activation. This study focused on assessing the activation levels of the trunk musculature, specifically the rectus abdominis (RA) and multifidus (MF), in individuals with CLBP exhibiting mild disability according to the Oswestry Disability Index. Importantly, improvements in the VAS values were observed independently of changes in muscle electrical activity.

Clinical relevance of combined treatment with exercise in patients with chronic low back pain: a randomized controlled trial

Low back pain is a widespread public health concern owing to its high prevalence rates according to the Global Burden of Diseases. This study aimed to investigate the effect of exercise alone or in combination with manual therapy and kinesiotherapy on pain sensitivity, disability, kinesiophobia, self-efficacy, and catastrophizing in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP). A total of 55 participants were enrolled and randomly allocated to one of three groups: (1) exercise alone group (ET; n = 19), (2) exercise + manual therapy group (ETManual therapy; n = 18), and (3) exercise + kinesio tape group (ETkinesiotape; n = 18). The interventions consisted of core stabilization exercises (ET group), prior spinal manipulation with core exercises (ETManual therapy group), and combined application of kinesiotape plus core stabilization exercises (ETkinesiotape group). The primary outcome was disability. The secondary outcomes were pain sensitization, kinesiophobia, catastrophizing, and self-efficacy. Assessments were performed at baseline and at weeks 3, 6, and 12. All therapies applied achieved significant improvements over time after 12 weeks in all parameters analyzed. ETmanualtherapy showed the greatest changes in all variables, with significant differences from the rest of the interventions in Oswestry (ODI) (3 and 6 weeks, respectively). A clinically significant cutoff point was achieved for the ETmanualtherapy group in the ODI parameter (−54.71%, −63.16% and −87.70% at 3, 6, and 12 weeks, respectively). Manual therapy prior to the core exercise technique was the most effective approach to improve health-related functionality compared with exercise alone or exercise combined with kinesiotape in patients with CLBP.Clinical Trial Registration Number: NCT05544890.

Effect of telerehabilitation-based core-stability exercise on pain-related disability, pain self-efficacy, and psychological factors in individuals with non-specific chronic low back pain: a randomized controlled study

BackgroundCore-stability exercise is an exercise modality used in the management of patients with low back pain (LBP). Telerehabilitation is a new treatment approach that is gaining traction as an alternative rehabilitation approach. This study determined the effect of telerehabilitation-based core stability exercise (TCSE) and clinical-based core stability exercise (CCSE) on pain-related disability, pain self-efficacy, and psychological factors in patients with non-specific chronic low back pain (CLBP).Materials and methodsFifty participants (24 males and 26 females) with a mean age of 40.28 years participated in this randomized controlled study and were recruited from the out-patients physiotherapy clinic of 2 tertiary hospitals in Lagos State and were allocated into two groups (telerehabilitation-based core stability exercise group and clinical-based core stability exercise group which serves as the control) using computer-generated random number sequence. Pain-related disability, pain self-efficacy, and psychological status were assessed at baseline, and at the completion of the 4th and 8th week. Patients received supervised intervention protocols twice weekly for 8 consecutive weeks. Independent t-test, Mann–Whitney U test, and Friedman test were used in analyzing the data at an alpha level of 5%.ResultsThere was a statistically significant difference (P = 0.0001) noted within each group (telerehabilitation-based core stability exercise group and clinical-based core stability exercise group) in all the outcome measures assessed (Pain Disability Index, Pain Self-efficacy Questionnaire and Depression-Anxiety-Stress scale) but no group was superior to one another when compared.ConclusionTelerehabilitation-based core stability exercise was as efficacious as clinical-based core stability exercise in decreasing pain-related disability, improving pain self-efficacy and psychological factors, and should be incorporated as part of the treatment program in musculoskeletal rehabilitation for individuals with non-specific CLBP.Trial registrationPACTR202208607830603, 16th August 2022—retrospectively registered, https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/