Proprioceptive, Calisthenic, and Kinesthetic Exercises for Chronic Low Back Pain

Combined Effects of Proprioceptive, Calisthenic, and Kinesthetic Exercises on Pain, Range of Motion, and Functional Disability in Chronic Low Back Pain

Numerous studies have emphasized the debilitating effects of chronic low back pain (CLBP), which persists for over 12 weeks and impacts approximately 20% of the global population. The etiology of CLBP encompasses various factors, such as sedentary lifestyles, diminished muscle strength, poor neuromuscular control of deep trunk muscles, and compromised proprioception, all contributing to lumbar spine strain. These factors result in limitations in essential daily activities, significantly diminishing the overall quality of life. Continued exploration in this field is essential to furthering our understanding of managing chronic low back pain. Investigating alternative treatment approaches, such as proprioceptive, calisthenic, and kinesthetic exercises, contributes to expanding the range of solutions available for addressing this issue. Embracing a diverse array of interventions not only proves beneficial but also holds promise in providing long-term advantages for enhancing patients' overall well-being. Therefore, this study aims to comprehensively investigate the combined effects of proprioceptive, kinesthetic, and calisthenic exercises, alongside core stabilization exercises, in alleviating chronic low back pain and their potential to enhance range of motion and diminish functional disability in individuals with CLBP in Lahore, Pakistan.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Minimum 3 months or above LBP
• Moderate pain (NPRS: 3-7)
• Disability score of 19% or greater as evident from the modified Oswestry Disability Questionnaire (MODQ)

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of inflammatory joint diseases e.g. rheumatoid arthritis, gouty arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis
• History of neurological deficit e.g. paresthesia, sensory loss, radiculopathy, myelopathy
• History of surgery related to spine, lower extremities, metal implants on lower extremities
• History of any mental illness
• Subjects on medication e.g. antidepressants, corticosteroids, and anti-inflammatory medications
• Other conditions include peripheral vascular diseases, recent fractures including lower limb or spine, osteoporosis, spine or other joint deformities, brain injuries, neuromuscular disorders, and respiratory diseases
• Pregnancy