Online Versus Physically Supervised Pilates Exercise Program in Non-specific Low Back Pain

Low back pain (LBP) is characterised by pain, muscle tension or stiffness located below the 12th rib and above the gluteal folds . In many patients, the specific nociceptive source of LBP cannot be identified and those affected are often classified as having nonspecific low back pain. Nonspecific LBP represents 90% to 95% of cases . Chronic non-specific LBP (CNLBP) is distinguished by persistent pain for more than 12 weeks, without a clear cause. This condition is considered one of the most common causes of disability. It is estimated that 80% of adults have at least one episode of LBP during their lifetime and aproximately 85% of cases falling under the umbrella of non-specific LBP, often labelled as idiopathic low back dysfunction due to the absence of identifiable anatomical abnormalities .

Low back pain (LBP) is a great public health issue and the second most common cause of seeking advice from a physician. It is the leading source of human suffering and disability worldwide . Approximately 15% to 20% of adults suffer from back pain each year. The issue is common in both developing and developed countries of the world . As compared to developed countries low back pain is more prevalent in developing countries. It is considered the second most common disease in adults under the age of 45 years .

The prevalence of low back pain among older population is 40.6% in Pakistan. In Pakistan, the prevalence is notably high, ranging from 29.20% to 70%. Individuals experiencing low back dysfunction grapple with various musculoskeletal symptoms, including pain, restricted range of motion (ROM) and a decline in functional indices. Now a days low back pain is also very common is younger population a study shows that 25.1% males and 36.8% females of age ranging 18-25 also experience low back pain in Pakistan. 84% population of USA have low back pain. it is estimated that 70-85% of the working population has suffered from a LBP episode, with many reports of long periods of absence from their jobs, restricting their physical activity and affecting their output and the quality of life.

With the rise of digital platforms and global pandemic, there has been a significant shift towards online fitness program. Investigating the effectiveness of online Pilates can provide information whether these programs will work better compared to traditional, in person programs. Online Pilates offers greater accessibility for individuals who, may not have an easy access to clinics due to geographic, financial or time constraints. This research will help determine if online Pilates can deliver similar benefits to in-person therapy, making treatment more accessible to patients. This study will help practitioners in making informed choices whether online Pilates or clinical Pilates which is better for the patients. Another impact is that by giving treatment online cost of the treatment will also reduce which is beneficial for the patients. So, the purpose of this study is to compare the effects of online versus physically supervised Pilates exercise program with common standard Physical Therapy Treatment on pain, mobility and function in patients with non-specific low back pain.

Inclusion criteria

• Patients with LBP
• Minimum chronicity of LBP 03
• Both Gender
• Age ranges from 18-40
• Numeric pain rating scale (NPRS) score 3 to 8 for pain intensity
• Patient who can maintain their standing posture independently for ≥30 minutes, have enough physical autonomy to participate in the physical activities required by the study
• Oswestry Disability Index score 20-34

Exclusion criteria

• History of trauma or fracture of the supine
• Chronic systemic soft tissue or bony disease
• Post Operative
• Pregnancy
• Diagnosis of osteoarthritis and herniated disc
• Any medical red flags
• Neurological and visual impairments
• Presence of root symptoms (e-g sciatica and cauda equina syndrome)