Using stochastic resonance and strength training as part of a rehabilitation programme for recurrent low back pain treatment: a case study

Abstract

Low back pain (LBP) is a common disabling health problem that can cause decreased spine proprioception. Stochastic resonance (SR) can influence detection performance, besides improving patients with significant sensory deficits, but have not been thoroughly tested for LBP. This study aimed to examine the application of SR therapy (SRT) and strength training for LBP treatment. The subject was a resistance-trained male in his early thirties. His back pain was unbearable after a strength training session. Standard pain relief alleviated the pain but the LBP developed at a similar intensity after 4 weeks. SRT (4–5 sets ×90 sec, 30-sec rest interval, supine position) was prescribed along with other exercises for 3 weeks (phase 1), and followed by tailor-made strength training for 16 weeks (phase 2). The Oswestry Disability Index was 66.7% (interpreted as “crippled”) prior to first SRT, and reduced to minimal levels of 15.6% and 6.7% after four and seven SRT sessions, respectively. Similarly, pain intensity was ranging from 5 to 9 (distracting-severe) of the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS-11) prior to the first session but this was reduced considerably after four sessions (NRS-11: 0–1). During phase 2, the patient performed without complaining of LBP, two repetitions of bench press exercise at a load intensity of 1.2 his body weight and attained 4 min of plank stabilisation. This LBP management strategy has a clinically meaningful effect on pain intensity, disability, and functional mobility, by receding the recurrent distracting to severe LBP.

Methodology of Back Pain Relief Using Isometric-Tension Post-Covid-19 Disease

“…Studies have shown that regular exercise helps to prevent pain (Sulejanov, 2009, Lizier et al, 2012, Washif et al, 2019 and it has been found that pain is worsened by Covid (Serrano-Ibáñez et al, 2021). Furthermore, as for the beneficial effect of isometric exercise on the body (Rio et al, 2017, Noorkõiv et al, 2015, Schott et al, 1995, this methodology differs in that it can be performed every day and in any place (gyms, medical centers, homes, and even at work).…”

“…However, other treatment options can be used, as studies show that regular exercise has been identified as a primary preventive and management of pain (Sulejanov, 2009, Lizier et al, 2012, Washif et al, 2019. It is considered that there is a strong connection between COVID and the worsening of the pain.…”

Beyond physiology: Acute effects of side-alternating whole-body vibration on well-being, flexibility, balance, and cognition using a light and portable platform A randomized controlled trial

“…To the best of our knowledge, SR-WBV was originally developed to increase performance of professional ski athletes. Nowadays it is used in different sports as injury prevention, but also in therapies with Parkinson patients ( 33 ), stroke patients ( 34 ), frail elderly ( 32 ), or patients with chronic low back pain ( 35 ). However, devices working with SR-WBV are big, heavy and expensive and thus rather used in physiotherapy or in fitness centers than at home.…”