Effect of Progressive Postural Control Exercise Versus Core Stability Exercise in Young Adults with Chronic Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Introduction This study aimed to investigate the effects of progressive postural control exercise (PPCE) vs core stability exercise (CSE) in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP). Methods A total of 34 young-adult participants with CLBP were randomly assigned to two groups (the PPCE group and the CSE group). They received instructions for two different exercise training regimens persisting over 8 weeks. Before, after, and at 6 months after the intervention, the participants were evaluated on the basis of pain intensity (VAS), degree of dysfunction (ODI and RMDQ), contractility of transversus abdominis (TrA) and lumbar multifidus (MF), as well as the ability to control static posture. Results There was no significant difference between the results of the PPCE group and the CSE group. At the 6-month follow-up after the 8-week treatment, the scores of VAS, ODI, and RMDQ in the two groups decreased significantly compared to before ( p < 0.05). The percentage change in thickness of bilateral TrA and left MF ( p < 0.05) was elevated and the sway area of center of pressure during static stance tasks with eyes opened ( p < 0.05) was decreased in both groups. Conclusion In the short term, PPCE provides positive effects similar to those of core stability exercise in patients with CLBP. The effective mechanism of PPCE might be the consequence of neuromuscular plasticity and adaptation adjustments. PPCE enriches the choices of treatment for CLBP. Clinical Trial Registration The trial was registered at www.chictr.org.cn , identifier ChiCTR2100043113.