Effects of underwater lumbar traction with aquatic exercises for chronic low back pain clients

Abstract

Objective: The purposes of this study were to evaluate the effects of underwater lumbar traction combining aquatic exercises (TRAC+EXE) and to compare with steady floating combining aquatic exercises in chronic low back pain clients (CLBP).

Materials and Methods: Sample group was forty volunteers with CLBP at least 3 months. All volunteers participated a daily 60 minute aquatic program for 2 weeks, 5 days a week (total 10 sessions). Measurement parameters were pain scale, pressure pain threshold (PPT), lower back active range of motion (AROM), flexibility, agility, and Thai-version oswestry low back disability questionnaire that were tested at pre and post study.

Results: The results showed that TRAC+EXE group with compatible calculated force for each person had lower pain scale and increased in PPT, AROM, flexibility, and agility. Moreover, lower oswestry low back disability scores was seen effectively with the significant level of 0.05.

Conclusion: 20 minute underwater lumbar traction combining 40 minute aquatic exercises could be an effectively alternative approach in physical therapy for the chronic low back pain clients.

Bull Chiang Mai Assoc Med Sci 2013; 46(3): 232-249