Abstract
The aim of the present study was to ascertain whether an oscillating board (a training device manufactured by Galileo, Elk Inc.) was useful in preventing low back pain. A survey was conducted on employees of care facilities to identify those suffering from low back pain. Subjects were 14 employees (2 men and 12 women; age range, 22 to 54 years; average age, 38 years) with low back pain but without neurological abnormality. The subjects were instructed to do stretch exercises and use the Galileo oscillating board 20 minutes, twice a week for six months. The effects of this intervention therapy were assessed by quantifying the severity of low back pain using the Visual analog scale (VAS). In addition, fluctuations in the center of gravity (balance) were assessed in terms of total tract lengths and peripheral areas prior to and six months after the intervention therapy. Furthermore, at six months after the intervention therapy, another survey was conducted to ascertain the level of satisfaction and whether or not the subjects wanted to continue with the therapy. Improvements in lumbar pain were seen 2 to 3 weeks into the intervention therapy. Fluctuations in the center of gravity improved after therapy, suggesting that training using an unstable board improved balance. The results showed that satisfaction levels were high and many subjects answered that they would like to continue with the therapy. Hence, a training program using the Galileo oscillating board appeared to be useful for preventing lumbar pain.
