Effect of a strength training program on low back pain

Introduction: Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common reasons for seeking medical care, with a significant economic impact and a lifetime prevalence of 60–90%. During chronic LBP therapy, an emphasis is placed on maintaining physical activity with various forms of exercise. Based on current research, intensive strength training may be considered an effective and well-tolerated approach that, when appropriately tailored to the individual, should not increase the risk of injury and can help with pain management. Aim: The main objective of our study is to determine the effect of a strength training program on LBP, particularly on pain intensity and its impact on lifestyle, as well as the change in quantitative parameters. Methods: Our research is conceived in the form of case studies, including five participants aged 27–63 years, who were experiencing chronic LBP. At baseline, an assessment was conducted, which included a medical history interview, a visual analogue scale, and a musculoskeletal examination. Participants attended the strength training program twice a week for a period of three months. Afterwards, the exit assessment was performed. The impact of movement therapy was compared quantitatively by changes between baseline and exit assessment, and qualitatively with regard to subjective changes in LBP and its impact on the participants’ lifestyle. Results: This study demonstrates that all participants experienced an average reduction in pain intensity of 57.7±23.5%, and an improvement in lifestyle of 75.5±28.4% compared to the baseline assessment. Muscle shortening (by an average of 41.7±12.4%) and muscle strength (by an average of 22.6±14.1%) were improved in all participants. Fitness level (reduction in heart rate by an average of 6.7±6.9%) and spinal mobility in Otto’s Index (by an average of 25.5±14.6%) improved in the majority of the participants. Conclusion: Strength training helped to affect pain in participants positively, and hence it might suggest considering movement therapy in the form of strength training as part of conservative treatment in selected individuals with LBP.