Effects of a Lumbar Stabilization Exercise Program on Low Back Pain, the Oswestry Disability Index, Use of Body Mechanics, and Lumbar Strength among Intensive Care Unit Nurses

Abstract

Objectives: This study examined the effects of a lumbar stabilization exercise program on low back pain, the Oswestry Disability Index, use of body mechanics, and lumbar strength among intensive care unit nurses. Methods: Thirty-five nurses were assigned to an exercise group (n = 18) or a control group (n = 17) from a university hospital-affiliated intensive care unit. The 8-week lumbar stabilization exercise program comprised 30 minutes of stretching, lumbar stabilization exercise, and Mckenzie extension exercise (3 times/week) and a single education session on body mechanics. Outcomes were assessed using questionnaires on low back pain (visual analogue scale), the Oswestry Disability Index (%), use of body mechanics, and back strength (kg). Data were analyzed by χ²-test, independent t-test, and analysis of covariance. Results: The lumbar stabilization exercise program provided improvements in low back pain, the Oswestry Disability Index, use of body mechanics, and back strength Conclusions: Lumbar stabilization exercise program might be a useful strategy for enhancing usage of work-related body mechanics and back muscle strength, and ameliorating low back pain and disability index for nurses working at the intensive care units.