Research on the effectiveness of physical therapy in the treatment of LBP

Abstract

IntroductionLBP management is complex and costly, with socio-economic and medical implications. Disabilities caused by painful back disorders represent a major problem of absenteeism from work (1). The prevalence of LBP in the active population (25-64 years old) is increasing.There are studies (2) showing that between 60 and 80% of people may suffer from back pain during their lifetime and 5% may present radiculopathy, the rest of them being diagnosed with nonspecific LBP. Of those, approximately 30% will be diagnosed with chronic LBP. More recent studies (3) show that the prevalence of LBP appearance for one year is of 65%, for the entire life, it is of 84% and for present day, of 33%. In the developed countries, 1 in 5 adults may experience symptoms of LBP, the number of these reaching 40% in England, Denmark, while in the US, the value is of 7-25%. Approximately 80-90% of patients with LBP are diagnosed with "non-specific" low back pain and 3% will require surgery. LBP is a common condition, representing 1/3 of rheumatic complaints. This condition interests both the young people and the adult one. Therefore, 25% of people aged between 30 and 50 years old consider LBP as the most frequent cause of work incapacity in the people below 45 years old.Risk factors for the occurrence of LBP are: occupational (heavy physical work, lifting weights, torsional movement of the trunk, prolonged standing, sedentary lifestyle), psychological (depression, anxiety, fear of movement), socio-demographic characteristics (weight, age, incorrect posture, lifestyle, educational level, smoking, family problems, low incomes).Medical rehabilitation in LBP involves combating pain and inflammation, improving statics and lumbosacral spine dynamics, improving paravertebral and abdominal muscle strength, gait rehabilitation. These objectives are achieved by pharmacological methods and physical-kinetic therapy.The aim of the study was to emphasize the importance of physical therapy in the recovery of patients with low back pain, versus drug therapy or electrotherapy.

Lumbar Paravertebral Muscle Pain Management Using Kinesitherapy and Electrotherapeutic Modalities

“…Disability caused by LBP is a major problem behind workplace absenteeism. Also, the prevalence of LBP in the active population (25-64 years) is increasing [89,158]. LBP is one of the most prevalent and disabling conditions, and its economic burden is enormous.…”