Abstract
Background
Exercise can be effective in treating Chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP) (Hayden et al 2005). Pilates-based group exercise programmes may be useful in the treatment of CLBP.
Aim
To carry out a feasibility study of group Pilates exercise course compared to individual physiotherapeutic intervention and a waiting list control, in the treatment of CLBP.
Methods
52 Patients with CLBP: referred for physiotherapy were randomly assigned to: (1) Conventional physiotherapy for 6 weeks; (2) 6-week course of Pilates group exercise; (3) Waiting list control. Outcome measures were; RMDQ, VAS for pain and SF-36 quality of life questionnaire; completed at baseline, seven weeks and three months.
Results
Although the study was successful in recruiting patients, loss to follow up (25% at 7 weeks; 40% at 3 months) and patient adherence with treatment was a problem.
Conclusion
Stricter inclusion criteria may be required in studies of this type defining, duration of symptoms, number of episodes of pain and upper age limit. A change in RMDQ score was used to calculate the power for a main RCT. 334 patients per group would allow for a 40% loss at follow-up.
References
Hayden JA , van TulderMW, MalmivaaraAV, KoesB. Meta-Analysis: Exercise Therapy for Nonspecific Low Back Pain. Annals of Internal Medicine2005;142(9):765–775CrossrefPubMed Google Scholar
Conflicts of interest: None
Sources of funding: Funding obtained through the Research and Development Office, Northern Ireland
This abstract has not been published in whole or substantial part nor has it been presented previously at a national meeting.
