Pilates method in low back pain: a randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Objectives: To analyze the effectiveness of the Pilates ground method in individuals with chronic non-specific low back pain (LBP) in reducing pain, improve the functionality, strength of the transverse abdomen muscle and quality of life. Methods: Double-blind randomized controlled trial in the University clinic. Thirty volunteers of both sexes were allocated randomly to two groups of 15 participants each: Pilates (PG) with Pilates exercises, and Control (CG). The PG held 16 sessions of 60 minutes, held twice a week for eight weeks. Participants were assessed pre-treatment and post-treatment for pain (Numerical Pain Scale - NPS and McGill Pain Questionnaire -MPQ), functional disability (Oswestry), transverse abdomen muscle strength (TrA) by the biofeedback unit test pressure (BTP) (Chattanooga Group, Australia) and quality of life by Medical Outcomes Study 36- Item Short-form Health Survey (SF-36). Results: There was a statistically significant increase in TrA (p < 0.001) and a significant reduction in pain intensity plus qualification (p <0.001) and functional disability (p < 0.001), as well as an increase in quality of life (p < 0.001). A positive correlation was observed between functional disability and pain assessed by Visual Anagolic Scale (VAS) (rho = 0.773; p = 0.001), as well as a negative correlation between disability and quality of life assessed by SF-36 (rho = -0.589; p = 0.021). Conclusion: The present study suggests that Mat Pilates exercises may be a choice for the treatment of patients with chronic non-specific low back pain.