Comparative Efficacy of Progressive Resistance Training Versus General Exercise Modalities in The Management of Chronic Low Back Pain: Review

Abstract

Background: Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a prevalent condition affecting a significant portion of the population, characterized by prolonged discomfort that often leads to functional impairments. Traditional rehabilitation approaches frequently yield short-term improvements, yet adherence to exercise-based therapies remains a critical challenge, often resulting in suboptimal outcomes.

Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy of progressive resistance training (PCRT) compared to general exercise (GE) therapies in managing CLBP. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in 2023 across databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Scopus. The analysis included studies that directly compared PCRT and GE interventions focusing on pain, disability, and muscle strength outcomes.

Results: The findings revealed that PCRT significantly outperformed GE in reducing pain, disability, and enhancing muscle strength, particularly over treatment durations of 12 to 16 weeks. Adverse events were comparable between both interventions, indicating no increased risk associated with PCRT. Notably, the effectiveness of PCRT was reinforced by evidence suggesting a dose-response relationship, whereby longer treatment durations correlated with greater improvements.

Conclusion: This study underscores the superior benefits of PCRT over GE for individuals suffering from CLBP, advocating for longer and more structured exercise programs to optimize therapeutic outcomes. The lack of significant adverse events associated with PCRT further supports its safety and applicability in clinical settings. Future research should focus on exploring adherence strategies and refining exercise protocols to enhance patient engagement and treatment effectiveness.