Short-Term Effects of PT on Physical Activity

At session 1: Participants are screened for eligibility. Baseline outcome measures are conducted (self-report questionnaires and physical performance tests). Accelerometer which is an instrument to measure physical activity is issued.

At session 2 (To occur at least one-week later): Accelerometer data is retrieved and downloaded to a computer. Participant numerically rates low back pain level at rest and in most painful position. Participant receives a manual distraction procedure. Participant rates pain level again. Participant starts the physical therapy intervention (manipulation of the spine, muscular strengthening and cardiovascular exercise, education). Accelerometer is reissued again.

At session 3 (At least one-week later): Accelerometer is collected and data is retrieved. Participant continues with the intervention (manipulation, exercise, education).

Inclusion criteria

• 1. Patient referred to outpatient PT with a LBP related diagnosis

• LBP without radiating pain distally to the knee > 3 months in duration

• Ability to read and write in English or Spanish

• Age between 18 and 70 years

• Able to ambulate independently without assistive devices

• Access to a computer or cell phone with an email address and/or the ability to receive short text messages

Exclusion criteria

• 1. No previous diagnosis, radiological evidence, or clinical signs and symptoms of instability, spondylolysis, spondylolisthesis, fracture, tumor or metastases to the spine

• No clinical indication of nerve root pathology such as: straight leg raise less than 45 degrees, asymmetric lower extremity deep tendon reflexes, lower extremity muscle strength deficits or radiating pain, numbness or tingling below the knee

• No surgical or biological fusion to the spine

• No previous spinal surgery

• No known diagnosis of osteoporosis or rheumatoid arthritis

• No use of oral steroids within the past 6 months

• No epidural injection over the previous 4-weeks to the lumbar spine region

• No current litigation, workman's compensation or disability claim for a low back injury

• No known pregnancy