Vol. 4, Issue 1, Part A (2022)

Abstract: Topic: “Effect of core strengthening with inspiratory muscle training versus core strengthening on pain, strength and range of motion in chronic low back pain individuals: A Randomized Control Trial.” Background: Low back pain is one of the most common health problems among all the population of the world. Men and women are equally reported to be affected by this condition. 50% of adults and 30% of adolescents are affected at least once. Low back pain often involves altered muscle length relationships, postural changes, Muscular imbalances, variations in location of the centers of mass and of pressure. It has been suggested that the diaphragm plays a role in contributing to spinal stiffness via its influence on intra-abdominal pressure, as well as via direct mechanical effect via the attachments of the diaphragm crurae. The diaphragm, a component of core Stability, plays a role in respiration and trunk stability by controlling intra-abdominal pressure and reducing the stress on the spine through cooperative action with the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles. Objectives: To compare the effect of core strengthening with inspiratory muscle training versus core strengthening on pain, strength and range of motion in chronic low back pain individuals at the end of 6 weeks. Methodology: Ethical committee clearance was taken for the study

• A written consent was taken from every subject and the entire procedure was explained to the patient in a language understood by the patient.
• The subjects were divided into two groups by randomization: Group A (n=31) and Group B (n=31)
• Group A was to continue with the inspiratory muscle training exercises with core strengthening exercises and Group B received the core strengthening exercises for three times a week
• Single - blinding was maintained throughout the process by blinding the subject to the treatment
• Numerical Pain Rating Scale, Pressure Biofeedback and Modified Schobar's test were conducted pre and post intervention.

Result: Total 62 male and female of age group 18-35 years, with chronic low back pian volunteered to participate in the study, after 7 dropouts due to various reasons, 30 males (54.5%) and 25 females (45.5%) have completed the 6 weeks of protocol. There was statistically significant difference in NPRS, Pressure Biofeedback values and Modified Schober’s Test scores in both the groups. Conclusion: In the present study core strengthening with inspiratory muscle training and core strengthening both were effective in reducing pain and improving strength and range of motion after completing the treatment protocols. But the improvement in extension range of motion is more in core strengthening group when compared with core strengthening with inspiratory muscle training group.