Effect of spinal extension exercises on mechanical low back pain in work from home IT professionals in India

Abstract

Introduction: Prolonged sitting with awkward posture and long working hours are the predisposing factors for developing Mechanical Low Back Pain (LBP) in IT professionals. Poor dynamic trunk extension performance is associated with back-related permanent work disability and recurrence of LBP. The purpose of this study was to find and analyze the effect of spinal Extension exercises on Mechanical Low Back Pain in work from home IT professionals. Methods: In this comparative study, 50 work from home IT professionals from various companies were approached through emails. Subjects were randomized into two groups: Group A (n=25) was study group, and Group B (n=25) was control group. Subjects from both groups exercised three times per week for 4 months and followed the ergonomics. Pain intensity, functional disability, and strength of back extensor muscle were assessed at baseline and at the end of week 4. Results: Group A had lower pain intensity (3.24 ± 1.45 vs 4.76 ± 1.53) and functional disability (4.24 ± 2.14 vs 11.44 ± 1.75) and significantly higher back extensor strength (25.44 ± 4.3 vs 22.24 ± 4.58; P<0.05) than Group B at the end of week 4. Conclusion: Spinal Extension Exercises should be incorporated in work from home IT professionals with mechanical low back pain to stabilize back muscles and improve physical functioning with minimal discomfort. In line with this, IT professionals should also be made aware of the risk factors associated with mechanical low back pain and should be encouraged for maintenance of physical health and fitness.

Estimation of spinal muscle performance in work from home information technology professionals of Karad, India in 2021

“…The effect of intervening with the corset of these muscles might give better outcomes. Recent research findings highlight the promising results for back pain like the effect of hydrotherapy-based exercises,[ 21 ] activity-specific spinal stabilization exercises,[ 13 ] and movement control spinal exercise are becoming better options for chronic nonspecific LBP. [ 22 ]…”

“…The strength is graded on the ability of the patient to keep the low back flat on the surface and the angle at which the back arches are noted and correlated with Kendall’s MMT grading system. [ 13 ] Kendall’s Upper Abdominal Strength Test: It is used to evaluate upper abdominal strength. The grade is assigned according to Kendall’s MMT grading system.…”

“…The strength is graded on the ability of the patient to keep the low back flat on the surface and the angle at which the back arches are noted and correlated with Kendall’s MMT grading system. [ 13 ]…”

Work from home practices as corporate strategy- an integrative review

“…International Labour Organization [ 12 ] survey mentions that the COVID-19 pandemic has severely affected workplace dynamics, where around 68% of the world's total workforce, and 81% of employers had to close down their workplaces [ 12 ]. In contrast, during the pandemic, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) reported that 85% of its employees (40,00,000 in India and outside India) shifted to WFH within a short time and its performance remain unchanged, which was reflected in its higher stock prices [ 13 ]. Variance in WFH practices has effects on individuals, families, and organizations and the possibility of state views on tax and labour laws.…”