Efficacy of spinal extension exercise program versus muscle energy technique in treatment of chronic mechanical low back pain

Abstract

Background: Mechanical low back pain (MLBP) is a major cause of illness and disability, especially in people of working age. People with chronic low back pain often experience anger, fear, anxiety, decrease in physical ability, and inadequacy of role fulfillment. Objective: This study aimed to compare the efficacy of extension exercise program versus muscle energy technique in treating patients with chronic mechanical low back pain. Subjects and methods: Forty patients complaining of chronic mechanical low back pain participated in the study. Patients were randomly allocated into two equal groups: group A which received spinal extension exercise program and group B which received muscle energy technique. Treatment sessions were given three times per week for four successive weeks. Patients were assessed before and after treatment using visual analogue scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and digital goniometer to assess pain intensity, functional disability, and range of motion (ROM) of lumbar spine respectively. Results: There was significant decrease in the scores of pain and functional disability in both groups post-treatment especially in group B. There was significant increase in lumbar range of motion in both groups post-treatment, especially in group A. Conclusion: Extension exercise program had better effect on improving lumbar range of motion, whereas muscle energy technique was better in decreasing pain and functional disability in patients with chronic mechanical low back pain.