Comparison of the effect of the McKenzie method and spiral stabilization in patients with low back pain: A prospective, randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Background: Low back pain (LBP) causes disability in daily life, and presents not only a health but also a socio-economic problem. New treatment options need to be tested and confirmed.

Objective: Compare the effect of the McKenzie method and spiral stabilization in patients with LBP.

Methods: Sixty patients with an average age of 47 years, which were included in our prospective, comparative study were randomly divided into two 30-member groups. One group exercised according to the McKenzie method (MDT), the other one according to the Spiral Stabilization Method (SPS). During the initial examination the Aberdeen Back Pain Scale was used to determine the degree of managing with daily activities and functionality, and the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire was used to determine the degree of disability. Check- up was performed after 2 and 6 weeks of treatment.

Results: In both groups, there was a significant improvement in results after 2 and 6 weeks of treatment (p< 0.05). When comparing the effect of 2 and 6 weeks of treatment of both therapeutic procedures (MDT and SPS), the difference was insignificant (p> 0.05).

Conclusions: None of these two treatment methods achieved better results, as they both have a comparable effect on reducing disability and improving the management of daily activities and physical functions. Therefore, both are equally effective in patients with LBP.

Keywords: Disability; McKenzie method; low back pain; spine.