Therapeutic exercise in chronic neck and back pain
A A Rodriquez1, W J Bilkey, J C Agre
1Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Wisconsin Medical School, Madison.
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|September 1, 1992
Summary
Exercise may improve chronic low back pain and neck pain by enhancing muscle strength and range of motion. However, more research is needed to understand the exact mechanisms linking exercise to pain reduction and improved function.
Area of Science:
- Physiotherapy
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Pain Management
Background:
- Chronic axial pain, including low back pain (LBP) and neck pain, is often linked to muscle weakness.
- The causal relationship between muscle weakness/incoordination and chronic pain remains unclear.
- Existing research on exercise interventions for chronic neck pain is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the existing research on the effects of exercise on chronic benign axial pain.
- To identify gaps in knowledge regarding exercise's role in managing chronic low back pain and neck pain.
- To highlight the need for further research into the mechanisms of exercise benefits.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating exercise interventions for chronic low back pain and neck pain.
- Analysis of research focusing on muscle strength, coordination, range of motion, and function.
- Synthesis of findings to assess the current understanding of exercise's impact on pain and function.
Main Results:
- Exercise is associated with improved strength, endurance, and range of motion in individuals with chronic low back pain.
- Exercise interventions show potential for decreasing pain and improving function in chronic low back pain.
- Evidence regarding the effects of exercise on chronic neck pain, muscle coordination, and segmental motion is sparse.
Conclusions:
- Exercise demonstrates benefits for chronic low back pain, particularly in improving strength and range of motion.
- The mechanisms through which exercise alleviates pain and enhances function in chronic axial pain require further investigation.
- More targeted research is essential to fully elucidate the role of exercise in managing chronic neck pain and associated factors like coordination and segmental motion.
