Core muscle functional strength training for reducing the risk of low back pain in military recruits: An open-label randomized controlled trial

研究概要

600 military recruits were randomized in this open-label trial to receive 12 weeks of progressive core muscle functional strength training (n=300) or no training (n=300) in addition to their standard basic combat training. The primary outcome of interest was the incidence of low back pain. Secondary outcomes of interest included lumbar muscle endurance, low back pain on a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and lumbar function on the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ). The incidence of low back pain was significantly lower in the core training group at 12 weeks follow up. Moreover, lumbar muscle endurance at 12 weeks and RMDQ scores at 12 weeks were significantly in favour of the core training group.