Simultaneous Effect of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization Exercise and Low-Level Laser Therapy on Depression and Quality of Life in Women with Chronic Low Back Pain

Background: Chronic low back pain is a health concern. Evidence indicates that both dynamic neuromuscular stabilization (DNS) exercise and low-level laser therapy (LLLT) can reduce the psychological consequences of this condition and improve quality of life. However, the simultaneous effect of these two interventions on depression and quality of life in women with chronic low back pain was not previously investigated. Therefore, the present study determined the simultaneous effect of DNS exercise combined with LLLT on depression and quality of life in women with non-specific chronic low back pain. Methods: In a clinical trial, forty women with non-specific chronic low back pain were selected from among patients referred to the Sarzamin-e Salamat Rehabilitation Center in Isfahan. They were randomly assigned to four groups: DNS exercise combined with LLLT, DNS exercise alone, LLLT alone, and a control group. DNS exercise and LLLT were performed three times per week for eight weeks. Depression, quality of life, and endurance of the lumbar flexor and extensor muscles were measured before and after the intervention. Results: DNS exercise, LLLT, and the combination of both interventions resulted in significant reductions in depression (P=0.001), improvements in quality of life (P=0.001), and increased endurance of the lumbar flexor and extensor muscles (P=0.001). The greatest changes were observed in the group that received combined DNS and LLLT interventions. Conclusion: Based on these findings, it is concluded that the use of both interventions can be considered an effective, non-invasive strategy for reducing the psychological consequences of chronic low back pain and improving quality of life in women with non-specific chronic low back pain.