Indian Journal of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy - An International Journal

Lack of studies with appropriate research design and methodology on back extensor muscle improvement with exercise, has not been possible to draw firm conclusions about the effect of back extension exercise over Swiss ball exercises in improving quality of muscle strength in an individual. The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of back extension exercises versus Swiss ball exercises using Bierieng Sorenson Endurance Test in individuals in improving physical fitness, quality of life and improving back pain.

Thirty subjects with low back pain were recruited for the study. Subjects were divided into two groups –Back Extension exercises and Swiss Ball Exercises. Back Extension group received exercises like Bridging, Four point kneeling, oblique abdominus training in supine with knee bent. Spinal extensors in prone lying with pillow under stomach. Swiss ball exercise group received exercises like supine lying on Swiss ball for transverse abdominus, core muscle strengthening by bridging on Swiss ball, training transverse abdominus, multifidus with plank exercise on Swiss ball. All the subjects were treated for three days a week for five weeks. Pre and Post strength of the muscle was seen using Bering- Sorenson endurance test. Outcome measure included Roland- Morris questionnaire and visual analog scale.

Overall, subjects in both the back extension and Swiss ball group improved over ten weeks training which was tested using Bering- Sorenson endurance test. A statistical significant difference was observed between the back extension exercise and Swiss ball exercise in Roland – Morris questionnaire and VAS index.

It can be concluded that there was no significant difference between the two approaches, so either of the techniques can be used for the management of low back pain.