Effectiveness of Exercises on Low Back Pain among Middle Aged Women at Puducherry

Abstract

Background: Women in their 30's, 40's and 50's have a higher incidence of low back pain due to a combination of risk factors that typically appears in the middle age. Addressing these underlying causes can significantly reduce the incidence of back pain .The objectives of the study were to assess the level of low back pain among middle aged women and to determine the effectiveness of selected exercises on low back pain among middle aged women .Materials and Methods: A quasi experimental research design was adopted. The data were collected using Demographic proforma and Mc Caffery pain scale. 40 subjects with low back pain were identified and exercises that consisted of abdominal strengthening, back strengthening and hip stretching exercises were taught and practiced by them daily for half an hour for a period of one month. Frequency, Percentage 't' tests & chi- square were used for analysis.Results: The results showed a significant difference in pretest and post test pain levels at p<0.001 level.Conclusion: The findings of the study implied that LBP is a common problem among middle aged women and doing exercises regularly would help to alleviate the pain.