Overview
This study is designed as a single-blind randomized controlled trial. Male and female patients aged 18-65 years with complaints of non-specific low back pain (NSLBP) lasting longer than 12 weeks will be included in the study. Participants will be randomly assigned into two parallel groups: control and intervention. The control group will perform core stabilization exercises five days a week for three weeks. In the intervention group, core stabilization exercises will be combined with 360-degree breathing exercises. To our knowledge, there is no randomized controlled trial investigating the effect of combining core stabilization with 360-degree breathing in individuals with NSLBP. The aim of this study is to examine the acute effects of combining 360-degree breathing techniques with core stabilization exercises on balance and proprioception in individuals with NSLBP.
Description
Low back pain is a major health problem worldwide. Non-specific low back pain (NSLBP) is the most common form of back pain. The lifetime prevalence of back pain can reach up to 84%. Various non-pharmacological and non-invasive methods are used for back pain management. One such method is core stabilization exercises. Core stabilization exercises enhance trunk stability by activating the muscles around the spine and have the potential to improve balance in individuals with NSLBP. This may help overcome balance disorders associated with pain and contribute to safer movements in daily life activities. Breathing exercises, by activating the diaphragm muscle, support spinal stability and provide benefits in pain management. It is known that breathing supports trunk stability through its relationship with core muscles and strengthens balance mechanisms. Studies in this field show that stabilization exercises can provide short-term improvements, especially in balance. However, the combined effects of core stabilization and breathing exercises in individuals with NSLBP have not been fully investigated. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the acute effects of combining 360-degree breathing exercises with core stabilization exercises on balance and proprioception in individuals with NSLBP.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Low back pain persisting for at least 3 months
- No neurological, rheumatological, or musculoskeletal system problems
Exclusion Criteria:
- Individuals with neurological, vestibular, or serious orthopedic conditions that may cause physical disability
- Patients with back-leg or dorsolumbar pain due to lumbar disc protrusion or fracture
- Cancer patients
- Individuals with acute infections
- Individuals with respiratory system diseases
- Individuals with any mental disorder that would prevent participation in the study assessment
- Pregnant individuals