The Effects of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization Approach

It has been reported that during isometric upper and lower extremity flexion exercises in individuals with chronic nonspecific low back pain (CSNLP), the mobility of the diaphragm decreases, especially in the anterior-middle portions. The regulation of intra-abdominal pressure is impaired due to insufficient mobility of the diaphragm and causes compressive forces on the vertebrae due to the compensatory activity of the superficial spinal extensors. Muscle imbalance between the upper and lower quadrants also results in an abnormal position of the chest or rib cage, negatively affecting lung function and exercise capacity. When the positive effects of the recently popular "Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS)" approach are examined, it suggests that it may be a possible treatment option in geriatric individuals with CSNLP. Based on the principles of developmental kinesiology, the DNS approach takes advantage of infants' motor development curves in the treatment of motor disorders. The main focus is on regulating intra-abdominal pressure and the integrated spinal stabilizing system through specific functional exercises based on the positions exhibited by a healthy infant. According to the DNS, every developmental position is an exercise position, but every exercise must follow basic principles. These principles are restoration of correct respiratory pattern and intra-abdominal pressure, respectively; ensuring correct support during dynamic activities of the extremities and ensuring biomechanical alignment during movement. Considering the principles of exercise, there appears to be a potential mechanism of action for anomalies in geriatric individuals with CNSLBP. Therefore, in our study, we aimed to examine the effect of DNS approach on functional movement patterns, balance, quality of life and exercise capacity in geriatric individuals with CNSLBP. It is the first randomized controlled study in the literature, and our hypothesis is that the DNS approach may be an effective therapeutic approach on these parameters.

Inclusion criteria

• Being an older patient seeking care for CNSLBP (with a duration of at least 3 months) without leg pain.
• To have a pain intensity of at least 3 points (measured on a 0-10 point Visual Analog Scale (VAS);
• The ability to comprehend and follow verbal instructions,
• To be over 65 years of age,
• To volunteer to participate in the study

Exclusion criteria

• history of spinal surgery
• severe spinal pathologies (e.g. ankylosing spondylitis, lumbar spinal stenosis, spina bifida, spinal tumors, osteoporosis, and cauda equina syndrome)
• medical contraindications to active exercise;
• concomitant somatic or psychiatric disorder [Mini-Mental State Examination score ≤24]
• neurological deficits (e.g. brain tumor and nerve palsies); specific causes of LBP (e.g. facet joint problem, disc herniation, sacroiliac joint dysfunction)
• nerve root compression
• spinal deformities
• autoimmune diseases (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus)
• cancer