Effect of Retro-walking on Postpartum Low Back Pain

Effect of Retro-walking on Postpartum Low Back Pain

This study will be conducted to determine the effect of retro walking on post partum low back pain.

Postpartum LBP is a common musculoskeletal disorder. It occurs due to ligament laxity and postural changes that started during pregnancy or within 3 weeks of childbirth and continue for 3 months after delivery. When all forms of non-specific LBP were considered, approximately 33% of postpartum women had some LBP within 3 months after childbirth, and approximately 40% described moderate to severe disability.

Postpartum LBP stresses the sacroiliac joints and lumbosacral spine. Previous studies of Swedish women with postpartum LBP reported impairments to their daily activities with a prevalence ranging between 20-90%, but they seldom sought health care assistance or treatment.

Many researchers and clinicians have suggested that an increase in core strength and improvement in pelvic alignment are keys to resolve or avoid LBP. During backward walking, the typical heel-strike associated with ground contact is eliminated because the toe contacts the ground first and the pelvis is anteriorly aligned. This may open up the facet joints in the vertebral column and help in alleviating the pressure on intervertebral discs and the associated LBP.

Previous studies investigated the effect of retro walking on other types of LBP (non-specific and chronic) but till now, there is no previous study investigate the effect of retro walking on postpartum LBP related to C.S delivery. So, this study will be the first one in this issue. Therefore, this study will be of valuable benefits for medical service organization and increase the body of knowledge in physical therapy field.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Multi parous women suffering from postpartum low back pain after cesarean delivery (from 6 weeks to 6 months after delivery).
• Their ages will range from 25-35 years old.
• Their body mass index will be less than 30 Kg/m2.
• They should have mild to moderate low back pain as scored on VAS (represented by cut points on the scale recommending mild pain (5- 44mm), moderate pain (45- 74mm))

Exclusion Criteria:

• Recent surgeries, trauma or fractures of the lower limb or in the back region.
• Morbid cardiovascular disease.
• Liver or kidney dysfunction.
• Any neurological disorders including balance issues or motor and sensory loss.
• Any musculoskeletal disorders such as disc prolapsed, lumbar canal stenosis and spondylysthesis or severe knee osteoarthritis.
• Taking intra-articular injection for knee for the last 6 months.
• Those having visual dysfunction or refractory errors not corrected with glasses or contact lenses.