Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation and Spinal Segmental Stabilization in Individuals with Non-Specific Low Back Pain- Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract

The objective of this study was to verify the results of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) associated with central stabilization exercises in individuals with chronic nonspecific low back pain, taking as parameters the pain and trophism of the multifidus muscle. Methods: 40 volunteers were recruited and distributed in the placebo group, electrostimulation, stabilization exercise and therapeutic association. Pain was analyzed by visual analogue scale and McGill's questionnaire, and trophism was analyzed by ultrasound images. The therapeutic protocol consisted of three therapies per week over 4 weeks, independent of the group, with pre-protocol and end-of-protocol evaluations. Results: Significant differences were observed in pain quantification with reduction for the group that performed stabilization exercises, however, there were no differences for trophism. Conclusion: It is concluded that the use of stabilization exercises produced good results for the reduction of pain in individuals with chronic nonspecific low back pain.