Laser Acupuncture for Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain: A Controlled Clinical Trial

2009 ◽  
Vol 27 (3) ◽  
pp. 94-100 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gregory Glazov ◽  
Peter Schattner ◽  
Derrick Lopez ◽  
Kerrie Shandley

Objective The primary aim was to determine if laser acupuncture (LA) is more effective than sham laser in reducing pain and disability in adults with chronic non-specific low back pain. Methods The design was a double blind, two-group parallel randomised controlled trial. The active intervention was an 830 nm (infrared), 10 mW, Ga-Al-As laser diode laser for acupuncture and a sham control. The primary outcome measures were changes in pain (visual analogue scale) and disability (Oswestry Disability Index) at the end of 5–10 treatment sessions. Secondary outcomes were patient global assessment, psychological distress (Depression Anxiety Stress Scale) and subjective wellbeing (Personal Wellbeing Index). Follow up was performed at 6 weeks and 6 months after completion of treatment. Results 100 participants were enrolled and treated in a general practice setting. Per protocol analysis of the primary outcome measures using ANOVA suggested that although there was a significant overall improvement in pain and disability after the course of treatments (p<0.01), there was no significant difference between the intervention and control group in both the primary and most secondary outcome measures. Conclusion This study did not show a specific effect for LA using infrared laser at 0.2 Joules per point for chronic low back pain. The overall intervention appeared effective because of placebo and other factors. As there was some concern about baseline inequality between the groups further research using tighter inclusion criteria should attempt to replicate the result and examine if a dose response may exist.

Author(s):  
Chantip Juntakarn, MA ◽  
Thavat Prasartritha, MD ◽  
Prapoj Petrakard, MD

Background: Non-specific low back pain (LBP) is a common health problem resulting from many risk factors and human behaviors. Some of thesemay interact synergistically and have been implicated in the cause of low back pain. Massage both traditional Thai massage and joint mobilization as a common practice has been shown to be effective for some subgroup of nonspecific LBP patients.Purpose and Setting: The trial compared the effectiveness between traditional Thai massage and joint mobilization for treating nonspecificLBP. Some associated factors were included. The study was conducted at the orthopedic outpatient department, Lerdsin General Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand.Methods: Prospective, randomized study was developed without control group. The required sample size was estimated based on previouscomparative studies for effectiveness between techniques. Two primary outcome measures were a 0 to 10 visual analog scale (VAS) of pain andOswestry Disability Index (ODI). Secondary outcome measures were satisfaction of patients and adverse effects of the treatment. The ‘‘intention to treat’’ (ITT) and per protocol approach were used to compare the significance of the difference between treatment groups.Participants: One hundred and twenty hospital outpatients, 20 (16.7%) male and 100 (83.3%) female, were randomized into traditional Thai massage and joint mobilization therapy. The average age of traditional Thai massage and joint mobilization was 50.7 years and 48.3 years, respectively. Both groups received each treatment for approximately 30 minutes twice per week over a four-week period. Total course did not exceed eight sessions.Result: With ITT, the mean VAS of traditional Thai massage group before treatment was 5.3 (SD = 1.7) and ODI was 24.9 (SD = 14.7), while in jointmobilization groups, the mean VAS was 5.0 (SD = 1.6) and ODI was 24.6 (SD = 15). After treatment, the mean VAS and ODI were significantlyreduced (VAS = 0.51 (SD = 0.89) and ODI = 8.1 (SD = 10.7) for traditional Thai massage, VAS = 0.86 (SD = 1.49) and ODI = 8.26 (SD = 12.97) for joint mobilization). Constipation was found in 34 patients (28.3%).Conclusion: The traditional Thai massage and joint mobilization used in this study were equally effective for short-term reduction of pain and disability in patients with chronic nonspecific LBP. Both techniques were safe with short term effect in a chosen group of patients.


2021 ◽  
Vol 8 (2) ◽  
pp. 114
Author(s):  
Fasihur Rehman Ansari ◽  
Mohd Aleemuddin Quamri ◽  
Kunwar Alam Chaudhary ◽  
Mariyam Ahad

<p class="abstract"><strong>Background:</strong> Low Back Pain is one of the common conditions encountered in clinical practice. An estimated 65% to 80% of population will experience it during lifetime. As far as the various documented side effects of analgesics and NSAIDs have been concerned, complementary and alternative treatment options have, therefore, gained popularity. In Unani classical literature, <em>Habb-e-Hindi</em> is being indicated for joint’s pain in general and can be evaluated as safe, effective and alternative treatment of LBP.</p><p class="abstract"><strong>Methods:</strong> This historical control clinical trial testing the superiority of <em>Habb-e-Hindi</em> with Unani formulation used in previous study carried out at NIUM Hospital, Bengaluru. The comparison of the efficacy was made between the test group and historical control group. Primary outcome measures were improvement in LBP (VAS in NRS) and the secondary outcome measures included improvement in QOL (ODI scores and QBPDS scores). Data were analyzed by using Fisher’s Exact/Chi-Square/Repeated measures and One-way ANOVA with Tukey post hoc multiple comparison test for both intergroup and intragroup comparisons.</p><p class="abstract"><strong>Results:</strong> The test and the control group both equally had significant results. Test drug showed better results (in VAS). LBP associated disability (in ODI) got reduced significantly in control group as compared to the test group. The Significant Disability Change (in QBPDS) was recorded in all 20 patients of the control group as compared to that of the test group where only 4 patients showed significant reduction.</p><p class="abstract"><strong>Conclusions: </strong>The results of this study suggest that the Unani formulations are effective in the treatment of Low back pain.</p>


2020 ◽  
Vol 8 (A) ◽  
pp. 323-325
Author(s):  
Djohan Aras ◽  
Nur Asmi ◽  
Yudi Hardianto ◽  
Rabia Rabia ◽  
Anwar Mallongi

OBJECTIVE: Our study aimed to compare between quantum movement technique (QMT) and William flexion exercise (WFE) in patients with low back pain (LBP) based on pain and walking ability. METHODS: Six-session QMT and WFE were provided for two groups of participants. The frequency of intervention was 6 times/week. Twenty patients (aged 25–65 years) with LBP were randomly assigned into the QMT group (n = 10) or the WFE group (n = 10). The primary outcome of the intervention was pain, measured using the numeric pain rating scale, while the secondary outcome was walking ability, measured using the Oswestry Disability Index. The measurements were conducted at baseline and the end of the intervention. RESULTS: Pain reduction was significantly shown in both groups (p < 0.05). However, QMT was shown more effective in reducing pain compared to WFE (p < 0.05). In addition, we found the significant improvement of walking ability in both groups following the intervention (p < 0.05), but no significant difference was shown between two groups (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: QMT is more effective than WFE for reducing pain in patients with LBP.


Trials ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Jae-Hong Kim ◽  
Chang-Su Na ◽  
Gwang-Cheon Park ◽  
Jeong-Soon Lee

Abstract Background Chronic non-specific low back pain (CLBP) is a common musculoskeletal disorder for which patients seek complementary and alternative medical treatments, including laser acupuncture (LA). Invasive LA (ILA) involves the simultaneous application of invasive acupuncture treatment at acupoints and focused laser irradiation. The efficacy of ILA for CLBP remains controversial owing to the insufficient clinical trial data. We intend to obtain basic data regarding the efficacy and safety of ILA for CLBP by comparing the effects of different wavelengths of ILA on CLBP. Methods This will be a prospective, patient-blinded, parallel-arm, single-center (DongShin University Gwangju Korean Medicine Hospital, Republic of Korea), pilot randomized controlled clinical trial. Forty-five participants with CLBP will be randomized in equal numbers into the control, 650-nm ILA (650 ILA), or 830-nm ILA (830 ILA) group. The control group will receive sham ILA for 10 min and real electroacupuncture (EA) for 10 min. The 650 and 830 ILA groups will receive real ILA (i.e., 650 ILA group, 650-nm wavelength; 830 ILA group, 830-nm wavelength) for 10 min and real EA for 10 min once/day, twice a week for 4 weeks, at bilateral Shenshu (BL23), Qihaishu (BL24), Dachangshu (BL25), and Huantiao (GB30). The primary outcome will be an improvement in pain intensity assessed using the visual analog scale. Scores in the Korean version of the Oswestry Disability Index and the European Quality of Life Five Dimension Five Level scale will be recorded as secondary outcome measures. All scores will be recorded at baseline (before intervention), 4 weeks after the first intervention (at the end of the intervention), and 4 weeks after completion of the intervention. Discussion The study is expected to provide preliminary evidence regarding the efficacy, safety, and usefulness of ILA for the treatment of CLBP. Trial registration This trial was registered with the Clinical Research Information Service (registration No. KCT0004610; http://cris.nih.go.kr). Registered on 7 January 2020.


2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (2) ◽  
pp. e001068
Author(s):  
Shaun Wellburn ◽  
Cormac G Ryan ◽  
Andrew Coxon ◽  
Alastair J Dickson ◽  
D John Dickson ◽  
...  

ObjectivesEvaluate the outcomes and explore experiences of patients undergoing a residential combined physical and psychological programme (CPPP) for chronic low back pain.DesignA longitudinal observational cohort design, with a parallel qualitative design using semistructured interviews.SettingResidential, multimodal rehabilitation.Participants136 adults (62 male/74 female) referred to the CPPP, 100 (44 male/56 female) of whom completed the programme, during the term of the study. Ten (2 male/8 female) participated in the qualitative evaluation.InterventionA 3-week residential CPPP.Outcome measuresPrimary outcome measures were the STarT Back screening tool score; pain intensity—11-point Numerical Rating Scale; function—Oswestry Disability Index (ODI); health status/quality of life—EQ-5D-5L EuroQol five-Dimension-five level; anxiety—Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7; depression—Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Secondary outcome measures were the Global Subjective Outcome Scale; National Health Service Friends and Family Test;.ResultsAt discharge, 6 and 12 months follow ups, there were improvements from baseline that were greater than minimum clinically important differences in each of the outcomes (with the sole exception of ODI at discharge). At 12 months, the majority of people considered themselves a lot better (57%) and were extremely likely (86%) to recommend the programme to a friend. The qualitative data showed praise for the residential nature of the intervention and the opportunities for interaction with peers and peer support. There were testimonies of improvements in understanding of pain and how to manage it better. Some participants said they had reduced, or stopped, medication they had been taking to manage their pain.ConclusionsParticipants improved, and maintained long term, beyond minimum clinically important differences on a wide range of outcomes. Participants reported an enhanced ability to self-manage their back pain and support for the residential setting.


Author(s):  
Ecenur Atli ◽  
Dilber Karagozoglu Coskunsu ◽  
Zeynep Turan ◽  
Ozden Ozyemisci Taskiran

Abstract Objective To examine the effect of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) combined with core stabilization exercises (CSE) in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP). Methods Thirty-six patients (mean age 33.6±12.6 years) with CLBP were randomly assigned to 4 weeks (12 sessions) of NMES group (NMES combined with CSE) (n=18) vs. Control group (sham NMES and CSE) (n=18). After the 4 weeks, same exercises were given as home exercise program without NMES. The outcome measures were Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) and ultrasonography. Ultrasonography was used for measuring transversus abdominis (TrA), internal oblique (IO), external oblique (EO) muscles thickness and lumbar multifidus muscle thickness and area. Assessments were performed at baseline and 4th week and eighth week follow-up. Results In both groups, the change of ODI, VAS and NHP values of the first measurement according to the values of the 4th week and the eighth week were found statistically significant (p=0.001; p<0.01). There were no statistically significant differences in ODI, VAS and NHP scores between the 4th week and the eighth week in both groups (p>0.05). None of NMES and control group measurements with US showed a statistically significant increase in the TrA, IO, EO thickness and multifidus thickness and area (p>0.05). Conclusions It was shown that NMES can be tolerated by patients with CLBP, but the addition of simultaneus NMES to CSE had no contribution to the clinical outcome measures.


Author(s):  
I Made Dhita Prianthara ◽  
I Made Jawi ◽  
Wahyuddin ◽  
I Nengah Sandi ◽  
I Putu Adiartha Griadhi ◽  
...  

Background: Mechanical low back pain is pain that resulting from poor posture which cause decreased disability and limitation of lumbar range of motion. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to prove mulligan bent leg raise more effective to increase lumbosacral range of motion and decreased disability than slump stretching among tile craftsman with Mechanical low back pain in Darmasaba village. Methods: This research was an experimental study with pre and post test control group design. Sample of this study is tile craftsman with mechanical low back pain with 20 samples aged 30-55. Samples were divided into two groups, which the first group (n = 10) was given Mulligan bent leg raise, while the second group was given slump stretching. Do exercise 3 times a week for 4 weeks. Lumbar range of motion was measured with modified-modified schober test while level of disability was measured with modified oswestry disability index. Result: Paired Sample T-test in Group 1 and Group 2 obtained p=0,000 that showed in each Group 1 and Group 2 there is significant difference. Independent Samples Test of Group 1 and Group 2 showed the result p=0,000 which mean that there is significant difference in increased lumbar range of motion and decreased disability. Conclusion: Mulligan bent leg raise more effective to increase lumbosacral range of motion and decreased disability than slump stretching to tile craftsman with mechanical low back pain in Darmasaba village.


Author(s):  
Shi-Zheng Chen ◽  
An-Ni Tong ◽  
He-Hu Tang ◽  
Zhen Lv ◽  
Shu-Jia Liu ◽  
...  

Abstract Objective To identify a diagnostic indicator of lumbar spondylolysis visible in plain X-ray films. Methods One hundred and seventy-two patients with low back pain who received X-ray and computerized tomography (CT) examinations were identified and studied. They were divided into three groups: the spondylosis without spondylolisthesis (SWS) group, comprising 67 patients with bilateral pars interarticularis defects at L5 and without spondylolisthesis, the isthmic spondylolisthesis (IS) group, comprising 74 patients with L5/S1 spondylolisthesis and bilateral L5 pars interarticularis defects, and the control group, comprising 31 patients with low back pain but without spondylolysis. The sagittal diameters of the vertebral arch (SDVAs) of L4 and L5 were measured in lateral X-ray image, and the differences in SDVA between L4 and L5 (DSL4-5) in each case were calculated and analyzed. Results There were no significant differences in demographic characteristics among the three groups. In the SWS and IS groups, the SDVA of L5 was significantly longer than the SDVA of L4 (p < 0.001), whereas no significant difference found in the control group (p > 0.05). DSL4-5, in which the SDVA of L4 was subtracted from the SDVA of L5, significantly differed among the three groups (p < 0.001), and the normal threshold was provisionally determined to be 1.55 mm. Conclusions In bilateral L5 spondylolysis, the SDVA of L5 is wider than the SDVA of L4, and this difference is greater in isthmic spondylolisthesis. This sign in lateral X-rays may provide a simple and convenient aid for the diagnosis of spondylolysis.


2015 ◽  
Vol 1 (4) ◽  
pp. 191 ◽  
Author(s):  
Angel Rajakumari G ◽  
Soli T. K. ◽  
Malathy D

Aim: To assessment of effectiveness of spinal exercises and body mechanics on low back pain among post menopausal women.Participants and setting: A quasi experimental non equivalent control group pretest post test design was adapted. The study was conducted in the urban area of suryapet. 40 post menopausal women who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were selected by nonprobability purposive sampling technique.Intervention: The intervention such as spinal exercises and body mechanics were performed to overcome the level of low back pain among post menopausal women. The pre and post assessment was done by using a combined numerical and categorical pain scale.Measurement and findings: The women completed the demographic and obstetrical information and pain was measured by 0- 10 Modified combined numerical categorical pain intensity scale. This study revealed that there was high significant difference found in low back pain at p<0.001level between study group.Conclusion: The overall findings in the present study revealed that the spinal exercises and body mechanics was effectives and had brought about significant change in the reduction of low back pain among post menopausal women compared to pre test level of low back pain.


Author(s):  
Ganesa Puput Dinda Kurniawan ◽  
I Made Muliarta ◽  
Sugijanto ◽  
I Made Ady Wirawan ◽  
Susy Purnawati ◽  
...  

Non-specific low back pain is the symptom of lower back pain that occurs without an obvious cause, the diagnosis is based on exclusion of specific pathology. Non-specific low back pain can result in pain, muscle spasm and muscle imbalance, it can decrease the stability of the abdominals and lower back, limitation in lumbar mobility , changes posture, and it’s couse make disability in patients with non-specific low back pain. Exercise therapy for non-specific low back pain is high recommend to increased stability and correct posture of the spine, for this case thsth can be used for exercise therapy is like McKenzie exercises and core stability exercise. The purpose of this study is to determine the core stability excercise better than McKenzie excercise for release in reduce patient disability in non-specific low back pain. This research applied experimental research method with Pre and Post Test Control Group Design. The research was conducted in Dr Soeradji Tirtonegoro Klaten. There were 32 subjects taken for this research. Disability was measured by oswestry disability index (ODI) before and after treatment. They were divided into two treatment groups consisting of core stability 16 subject for the Mckenzie exercise is 16 and the frequens are 2 times a weak in a month. Statistical test results obtained, have a decline ODI score at the first group have done with a value of p = 0.000 and the second gorup with p = 0.000. it means that both of the group are significantly improve functional activity. From the comparative test data by t-test using the data difference in both groups p value <0.05, which means indicated that there is a significant difference. Therefore, the conclusion of this research indicated thar the core stability excercise better than McKenzie excercise for release in reduce patient disability in non-specific low back pain. The study is expected to benefit in patients with non-specific low back pain in reducing disability.


Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document