Abstract
[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to evaluate trunk repositioning errors after PNF exercise, or stabilizing exercise for low back pain. [Methods] Subjects were randomly assigned to a PNF exercise group or a stabilizing exercise group. The PNF exercise group voluntarily participated in PNF programs for the low back stability 4 times a week for 6 weeks. The stabilizing exercise group took part in stabilizing exercises 4 times a week for 6 weeks. Outcome measures were subjective pain measured on a visual analogue scale (VAS), and trunk repositioning error (RE). [Results] The VAS score was significantly reduced by the intervention in the PNF and stabilizing groups, but the difference in VAS scores between the groups was not significant. The RE of the PNF and stabilizing groups was significantly reduced by the intervention and of the difference in the RE score between the groups was also significant. [Conclusion] Based on these results, we conclude that PNF exercise and stabilizing exercise both reduce subjective pain and RE. Therefore PNF exercise and stabilizing exercise are useful for improving the low back stability of low back pain patients. Accordingly we consider that PNF exercise will be beneficial for low back pain.
