Active stabilisation training in a group exercise class: a pilot study
Date
2014-03-24
Authors
Jacobs, Lorraine Eleanor
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Abstract
There is evidence that exercise is beneficial for patients who suffer from low back
pain. Clinical observation suggests that there is often poor compliance with
individual exercise programmes. Regular group exercise classes may improve
patient compliance, and therefore good outcomes in these patients.
An observational study was performed on participants in a group exercise
programme for the rehabilitation of lumbar stability. Six patients, 2 male and 4
female, aged 30-60, who had suffered more than two episodes of low back pain
during the past two years agreed to participate in the study.
The holding capacity of transversus abdotninus as an indicator of deep abdominal
muscle function was measured. The subjects performed a self-assessment of
pain, disability, handicap and well being. All these measurements were repeated
on three occasions - before commencement of the exercise classes, after one
month’s participation and after three month’s participation. A follow-up postal
questionnaire was completed after one year.
All these measurements showed trends of improvement during the study.
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This study supports the use of a group class for active stabilisation training of the
lumbar spine. The results justify the establishment of a randomised controlled
study to provide more conclusive evidence.
Description
Thesis (M.Sc. (Physiotherapy))--University of the Witwatersrand, Faculty of Medicine, 1999.