Pain perception and low back pain functional disability after a 10-week core and mobility training program: A pilot...

Area of Science:

• Exercise Science
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Low back pain and disability are prevalent issues affecting university populations.
• Previous research indicates the potential benefits of targeted exercise interventions for back health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of a 10-week core and mobility training program on pain perception.
• To evaluate the effects of this program on low back disability scores among university members.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 24 participants with prior back pain and disability.
• An experimental group (n=8) underwent 10 weeks of core and mobility training (2x50 min/week).
• Both groups received ergonomic posture guidelines; pain (VAS) and disability (RMQ) were measured pre- and post-intervention.

Main Results:

• The experimental group showed significant reductions in pain intensity (p=0.014) and low back functional disability (p=0.011).
• No significant improvements were observed in the control group.
• A significant difference in outcomes was found between the experimental and control groups post-intervention (p=0.001).

Conclusions:

• Core and mobility training, alongside ergonomic advice, effectively reduced pain and disability.
• The findings support the integration of such programs into university wellness initiatives.
• Targeted exercise interventions offer a viable strategy for managing low back issues in academic settings.