Core stability exercises versus intermittent traction in management of nonspecifc chronic low back pain: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Purpose: To compare the effectiveness of core stability exercises and intermittent lumbar Traction on functional disability and pain intensity in patients with nonspecific chronic low back pain.

Methods: Sixty-six male subjects with Nonspecific chronic low back pain participated in the study. Their age ranged from 18 to 60 years, and their body mass index was normal, ranging from 18.9 to 24.9 kg/m2. They were randomly assigned to three groups of equal numbers. Group (A) received core stability exercises, TENS, and Hot packs. Group (B) received intermittent traction TENS and Hot packs. Group (C) received TENS and Hot packs only. The treatment was applied for five weeks. Low back pain was measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and the Oswestry questionnaire before and after the interventions.

Results: The intervention significantly improved outcomes for Group A (Core Stability Exercise) and Group B (Intermittent Lumbar Traction). Group A showed a significant reduction in pain (VAS: 50 ± 10 mm to 18 ± 8.6 mm) and disability (ODI: 12.8% ± 3.7% to 4.9% ± 0.9%) compared to others. Group B also improved, although to a lesser extent. The control group (Group C) showed no significant changes. Between-group comparisons highlighted Group A's superior results (VAS: p = 0.012; ODI: p < 0.001).

Conclusions: Core stability exercises are more effective than intermittent Traction in decreasing low back pain and reducing Oswestry disability questionnaire scores in adults with nonspecific chronic low back pain.