Control of the Lumbar Neutral Zone Decreases Low Back Pain and Improves Self-Evaluated Work Ability: A 12-Month Randomized Controlled Study.

Suni, Jaana PT, PhD; Rinne, Marjo PT, MSci; Natri, Antero MD, DMSci; Statistisian, Matti Pasanen MSci; Parkkari, Jari MD, DMSci; Alaranta, Hannu MD, DMSci

This randomized controlled trial studies the effectiveness of a training intervention with emphases on the control of lumbar neutral zone and behavior modeling as secondary prevention of low back pain and disability.  The results showed that intensity of LBP decreased significantly more (39%) in the training group than in control group at 12 months. The proportion of subjects with negative expectations about their future work ability decreased in both groups at 6 and 12 months; however, the proportion was significantly bigger in traing group compared with control group.  The authors conclude that controlling lumbar NZ is a specific form of exercise and daily self-care with potential for prevention of recurrent nonspecific LBP and disability among middle aged working men.

Spine.  31(18):E611-E620, August 15, 2006.

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