Aim: To compare the effectiveness of Mat Pilates with General Exercises in treating patients with nonspecific acute low back pain. Novelty: Pilates, typically performed with specific equipment, has shown clinically significant treatment effects in people with chronic low back pain. Recent guidelines recommend patients remain active during episodes of low back pain; however, evidence regarding the type of exercise to perform is limited. Mat Pilates is a type of Pilates exercise that does not require complex equipment. Evaluating the effectiveness of two simple exercise methods (Mat Pilates and General Exercises) can help expand intervention options for patients with acute low back pain, enabling them to choose an exercise they enjoy most.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
60
Duration: 50 minutes per session Repetitions: 8-12 repetitions per exercise Sets: 2-3 sets per exercise Rests: 30-60 seconds rest between sets Frequency: 3 times per week for 4 weeks Exercises: A series of Mat Pilates exercises targeting core strength, flexibility, and muscle control
General exercise is a structured exercise program designed to help individuals with back pain improve their fitness levels. The program comprises of a series of exercise classes that are led by a physiotherapist. The classes involve a combination of aerobic, strength, and flexibility exercises, and aim to improve overall physical fitness, reduce pain, and improve function. The program is specifically designed for individuals with back pain, and the exercises are tailored to meet the needs of each participant. The Back to Fitness Program is based on the principles of exercise prescription and is intended to be a safe and effective way to manage back pain through exercise.
Outpatient clinic of faculty of physical therapy, Ahram Canadian University
Al Ḩayy Ath Thāmin, Giza Governorate, Egypt
RECRUITINGChange in Pain Intensity
Pain intensity will be assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at baseline (pre-treatment), 4 weeks after randomization (post-treatment), 3 months after discharge (follow-up 1). The VAS is a continuous scale comprising a horizontal line, anchored by two verbal descriptors, one for each symptom extreme.
Time frame: Change from baseline to 4 weeks and 3 months
Change in Disability
Disability will be assessed using the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) at baseline (pre-treatment), 10 weeks after randomization (post-treatment), 3 months after discharge (follow-up 1), and 6 months after discharge (follow-up 2). The RMDQ is a 24-item self-report questionnaire measuring level of disability/function in people with low back pain. Higher scores indicate higher disability.
Time frame: Change from baseline to 4 weeks and 3 months
Change in Pain Pressure Threshold
Pain pressure threshold will be assessed using a pressure algometer at baseline (pre-treatment), 10 weeks after randomization (post-treatment), 3 months after discharge (follow-up 1), and 6 months after discharge (follow-up 2). A pressure algometer objectively evaluates pain sensitivity levels by measuring the minimum stimulus intensity perceived as painful.
Time frame: Change from baseline to 4 weeks and 3 months
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.