Comparison of effects of specific stabilization exercises and conventional back extension exercises in management of chronic disc prolapse

The concept of spinal segmental stabilization in one of the least explored intervention in the management of back pain. The purpose of the study was to examine usefulness of stabilization exercises for athletes with chronic disc prolapse. Twelve subjects who were sport persons (age: 20–40 yrs) with MRI findings of disc protrusion and were randomly assigned to three groups viz. Group I (n=4) stabilization exercise regimen, Group II (n=4) conventional extension exercise regimen and Group III (n=4) control. The two experimental groups participated in four weeks of treatment program, five times a week. Outcome was based on self reported pain (visual analogue scale), disability (Ronald and Morris disability questionnaire) and custom made barobag testing of transversus abdominis measured immediately before and after intervention program. Outcome measures of self-reported pain and disability were reduced for both experimental groups. Furthermore, motor control deficit was reduced in stabilization exercise group after intervention period.

A — Specific Stabilization Exercise“ treatment approach appears effective in athletes with chronic disc prolapse.