Regular Physical Exercise for Prevention and Treatment of Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction: Low back pain is one among the main health problems during life time with a high prevalence, which causes functional loss and reduced productivity. Low back pain specifically affects the lumbar region of the spine. The pain is usually related with mostly muscle tension, and often limits our range of movement. Low back pain (LBP) is a common problem involving the muscles, nerves, and bones of the back. Objective: The purposes of this review study are to describe about low back pain and to examine the most recommended exercise for prevention and management of low back pain, to review scientific evidence on the effect of physical exercise on low back pain and to review the risk factors which lead to develop low back pain. Methods: The review of related literature search strategy were used the terms in relation with LBP and exercise, exercise prescription for LBP, exercise testing for LBP, recommended exercise for LBP, the effect of exercise on back pain and etc. A search was conducted in the following databases: online research databases, web of knowledge, and science direct, sport discus, Google scholar and from other relevant citations. Results: Based on LBP analysis and outcome functions, can be categorized as acute (<6 wk), sub-acute (6-12 wk), and chronic. Risk factors associated with low-back pain include age greater than 34 years, degenerative diseases such as arthritis or osteoporosis, a family or personal history of back pain or trauma, a sedentary lifestyle, low job satisfaction, and low socioeconomic status, excess body weight, psychological stress or depression and physically hard work. Common symptoms of LBP: pain that is dull or achy, contained to the low back, stinging, burning pain that moves from the low back to the backs of the thighs, sometimes into the lower legs or feet, muscle spasms and tightness in the low back, pelvis, and hips, pain that worsens after prolonged sitting or standing, difficulty standing up straight, walking, or going from standing to sitting and pain that worsens with bending, lifting, standing or walking. Regular exercise particularly endurance and stretching exercises such as walking, biking, and swimming, has the good evidence of efficacy among exercise regimen, whether for whom with acute, sub-acute, or chronic low back pain. Generally, to reduce and manage LBP following low-impact endurance, strength and stretching regular exercises are advised.