ISSN : 2092-8475(Print)
ISSN : 2714-0148(Online)
Effects of Abdominal Bracing Exercise and Kinetic Link Training on Pain, Balance and Proprioception in Low Back Pain
Mina GIM, PT, PhDa, Ilhwan Ahn, PT, Prof., MSb, Yongyoun Kim, PT, Prof., PhDb
aDepartment of Physical Therapy, Wonkwang Health Science University, Iksan, Republic of Korea;
bDepartment of Sports Rehabilitation, Shingu University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
Abstract
Background: In patients with low back pain (LBP), weakened core muscles and impaired proprioception contribute to decreased spinal stability and LBP recurrence. Objectives: To investigate the effects of abdominal bracing exercises (BE) and kinetic link training (BEKLT) on pain, balance, and proprioception in LBP patients. Design: Randomized controlled trial. Methods: Sixteen adults with LBP were randomly assigned to a BE group or a BEKLT group. Both groups completed a four-week intervention (three sessions per week). Pain was assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS), proprioception with the lumbar reposition sense test, and balance with the BT4 system. Results: Both groups showed significant reductions in VAS and proprioception error (P<.05), with no inter-group differences. In dynamic balance (limits of stability), the BE group improved in rearward, left, and right angles, while the BEKLT group improved in forward, rearward, and left angles (P<.05). A significant difference was observed in the forward leaning angle between groups (P<.05). For static balance, both groups showed significant reductions in trace length and C90 area (P<.05), with no inter-group differences. Conclusion: The findings suggest that both BE and BEKLT are effective interventions for reducing pain and improving proprioception and balance in LBP, with BEKLT providing additional benefits for dynamic balance.
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