A Comparative study to Assess the Effectiveness of Back Strengthening Exercises Versus Segmental Stabilizing Exercises among Working Women with Chronic Low Back Pain and Functional Disability in Selected Schools at Kanyakumari District Tamilnadu

Abstract

The objectives of the study were, 1. To assess the level of chronic low back pain and functional disability among working women before and after back strengthening exercises and segmental stabilizing exercises in Group I and Group II. 2. To find out the effectiveness of back strengthening exercises and segmental stabilizing exercises on chronic low back pain and functional disability among working women in Group I and Group II. 3. To associate the pre-test score of chronic low back pain and functional disability among working women with selected demographic variables of Group I and Group II. The conceptual framework of the present study based on Lydia Hall s Core, Care and Cure Model. Lydia Hall presented her theory of nursing visually by drawing three interlocking circles, each circle presenting a particular aspect of nursing. The circles represent Core, Care and Cure. The data collection tool used in this study were demographic variable proforma, clinical variable proforma, numerical pain rating scale and Oswestry low back pain disability questionnaire. Reliability of the tool is tested by test- retest method. The study is conducted in selected CSI Corporate Management Schools at Kanyakumari Diocese. All school teachers with chronic low back pain between the age group of 30 and 58 years are selected as a sample by using purposive sampling technique. Consent was obtained from the samples after explaining the nature and purpose of the study. Based on that, 148 teachers were screened and chosen 126 samples for Group I and 153 teachers were screened and chosen 128 samples for Group II. Chronic low back pain affects the daily activities of the working women. Exercises are simple, safe, cost free, easy to learn and effective and non pharmacological measures to reduce chronic low back pain and functional disability. The study concluded that, the segmental stabilizing exercises are reducing the chronic low back pain and functional disability of the working women while comparing with the back strengthening exercises.