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Abstract Background Low back pain has become a globally challenging health problem, and about 90% of cases are nonspecific. Due to the risks associated with opioid use and the limited effectiveness of drug treatment, acupuncture and other non-drug methods have become the first-line treatment for this disease. However, the best acupuncture method has not yet been determined. In this study, the effects of different acupuncture methods on chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNLBP) were compared by network meta-analysis, aiming at identifying the best option and providing a basis for precise treatment of CNLBP. Methods Clinical randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on acupuncture in the treatment of NSLBP were searched in eight databases including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Sinomed, CNKI, Wanfang Data and VIP from the inception of databases to January 21, 2024. The Cochrane risk-of-bias tool 2.0 (RoB 2.0) and Stata 15.0 (Stata Corp, College Station, Texas, USA) were used to evaluate the literature quality and meta-analysis, and the evidence quality was assessed based on GRADE guidelines. This systematic review was registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. Results A total of 27 articles were included, involving 2579 patients. The results of the network meta-analysis showed that the top three treatment schemes were warm needle acupuncture, intensive silver needle therapy and meridian-sinew theory-based treatment. In terms of relieving pain, the top three treatments were electrical warm needling, intensive silver needle therapy and warm needle acupuncture. In improving mobility, the top three were meridian-sinew theory-based treatment, routine acupuncture and electroacupuncture. Conclusion For CNLBP patients, warm needle acupuncture, electrical warm needling and meridian-sinew theory-based treatment are mainly recommended. If patients have significant pain, electroacupuncture is strongly suggested. On the contrary, for patients with decreased joint mobility, meridian-sinew theory-based treatment is advocated.

Objective: To rigorously evaluate the short-term and long-term effectiveness of Tuina (TN), alone and in combination with physiotherapy (PT), for Chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNLBP) through a comprehensive, high-quality clinical trial. Methods: This randomized, single-blind trial was conducted from September 2020 to July 2023, involving 204 CNLBP patients from the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University. Participants underwent a baseline assessment, 6 treatment sessions over 8 weeks, a post-treatment evaluation in the 9th week, and a 20-week follow-up. Participants were randomly assigned to TN, PT, or a combination of TN and PT (TP) groups. Each treatment involved 6 sessions with a minimum 7-day interval, each lasting 30 minutes. Primary outcome was the change in Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain. Secondary outcomes included the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), Range of Motion (ROM) of the spine, Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome Scale (TCMSS), and adverse events (AE). Results: Among the 204 participants, 67.16 % were female, and 88.73 % completed the 20-week follow-up. All groups showed significant reductions in VAS scores post-treatment and at follow-up. Secondary outcomes improved significantly, with notable decreases in ODI and TCMSS scores. Pairwise comparisons within groups indicated statistical significance, particularly in ODI scores, with clinical relevance. No significant differences were found between the groups. ROM and SF-36 showed statistical but not clinical significance. Only one AE (0.49 %) was reported, with no severe incidents. Conclusion: All treatment groups, including TN, TP, and PT, demonstrated significant reductions in VAS scores for CNLBP patients, with effects lasting up to 20 weeks. While TN and TP showed substantial improvements in secondary outcomes, particularly in ODI scores, no significant differences were found between the groups. These findings suggest that all treatments can be effective for managing CNLBP, supporting clinical practitioners in selecting appropriate interventions for patients, especially for those unable to engage in active exercises, utilizing passive movements like TN to enhance health outcomes.

Chronic nonspecific low back pain (cNLBP) accounts for approximately 90% of low back pain cases, affecting 65–80% of the population and significantly impacting life quality and productivity. This condition also leads to substantial financial burden. Although there have been advancements, a comprehensive understanding of the underlying etiology of cNLBP remains elusive, resulting in less than optimal treatment outcomes. This study aimed to examine the correlation between lipid variations and the development of cNLBP. The cohort consisted of 26 healthy volunteers (HV group) and 30 cNLBP patients, with an assessment of metabolites and lipid composition in both groups. Metabolomic results revealed significant alterations in lipid-associated metabolites between the HV and cNLBP groups. Subsequent lipid analysis revealed that monoacylglycerols (MAGs) increased approximately 1.2-fold (p = 0.016), diacylglycerols (DAGs) increased approximately 1.4-fold (p = 0.0003), and phosphatidylserine (PS) increased approximately 1.4-fold (p = 0.011). In contrast, triacylglycerol (TAG) decreased to about 0.7-fold (p = 0.035) in the cNLBP group compared to the HV group. The contrasting trends in MAG/DAG and TAG levels indicated that the imbalance between MAG/DAG and TAG may have an impact on the development of cNLBP. This study has provided new insights into the relationship between the progression of cNLBP and specific lipids, suggesting that these lipids could serve as therapeutic targets for cNLBP.

The combined use of drugs with different mechanisms of action is the main principle of musculoskeletal pain control in rheumatic diseases. However, there are few studies evaluating the efficacy of this approach in real practice.Objective: to determine the efficacy and safety of the combined use of celecoxib, diacerein, and the combination of glucosamine + chondroitin in osteoarthritis (OA) and chronic nonspecific low back pain (NSLBP). Material and methods. Statistical analysis of data obtained during a 3-month open observational study was performed. We included 1569 patients (63.6 % women and 36.4 % men, mean age 58.7 ± 11.0 years) with knee OA (kOA), hip OA (hOA), generalized OA (gOA), and chronic NSLBP with moderate/severe pain (≥ 4 on a numeric rating scale, NRS 0–10) who required nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Celecoxib 200 mg twice daily was prescribed, with the dose reduced to 200 mg per day or taken “as needed" after significant pain relief; diacerein 50 mg twice daily; and a medication of glucosamine 250 mg and chondroitin 200 mg, 2 capsules 2–3 times daily. Outcomes were assessed after 3 months using the dynamics of pain, fatigue, dysfunction (according to NRS), and the “Patient Acceptable Symptom State” (PASS) indicator. Results and discussion. 80.2 % of patients completed the 3 month course of treatment, 4.4 % discontinued treatment due to adverse events (AEs), and for 15.4 % of patients there was no follow-up. After 3 months of treatment ≥ 50 % decrease (from baseline) in the severity of symptoms was noted in 83.4 % of patients for pain on movement, in 83.7 % for pain at rest, in 78.6 % for pain at night, in 80.8 % for dysfunction, and in 83.4 % for fatigue. 87.7 % of patients reported PASS. There were no significant differences in treatment outcomes for different localizations of OA and NSLBP: a ≥ 50 % pain reduction in kOA was achieved in 81.6 % of patients, in hOA – in 82.2 %, in gOA – in 85.0 %, in NSLBP – in 88.1 %. AEs were registered in 350 (22.4 %) patients, the most frequent was dyspepsia (n = 280, 17.8 %), diarrhea was recorded in 37 (2.4 %) cases. No serious AEs requiring hospitalization were registered. Conclusion. Combination therapy with celecoxib, diacerein, and a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin significantly reduces the severity of symptoms of OA and NSLBS.

IntroductionThis meta-analysis aimed to determine the clinical efficacy of acupuncture combined with core muscle exercises on pain and functional status in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain.MethodsThis study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and meta-analysis criteria for systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Randomized controlled trials published till November 2023 were searched in PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chinese Biomedical Literature, and Wanfang databases. The search strategy was related to disease type, intervention, and control measures and was structured around the search terms “low back pain,” “acupuncture therapy,” and “exercise.” Two reviewers applied inclusion and exclusion criteria. Sensitivity and fixed effects analyses were performed to determine the primary outcomes.ResultsWe included 11 randomized controlled trials (n = 727) on acupuncture combined with core muscle exercises in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain. Compared with controls, clinical efficacy was significant, with improvements in pain scores (visual analog pain scale and numerical rating scale) and Oswestry Disability Index in the intervention group.DiscussionAcupuncture therapy combined with core muscle exercises improved pain and functional status in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain, with favorable clinical outcomes compared with single-core muscle training. Multicenter large-sample trials are required to obtain more reliable conclusions.

Abstract Background Low back pain is one of the most common disabling pathologies in humanity worldwide. Physical exercises have been used in recent decades to reduce the pain, improve the functionality of the lumbar spine and avoid relapses. The purpose of the study is to analyze the effect of a program based on re-education exercises involving preactivation of the abdominal transverse muscle compared to conventional treatment in adults with chronic nonspecific low back pain. Methods A two-arm, single-blind randomized control trial with 35 primary care patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain. Both groups received a 4-week intervention. Data were collected at baseline and at the end of the intervention. Sixteen patients participated in the intervention group, and 19 patients in the control group. Results For the experimental group, the outcomes of disability and activation of the abdominal transverse muscle decreased significantly (MD -2.9; CI 95% -5.6 to -0.35; η2 = 0.14; p = 0.028) and (MD 2.3; CI 95% 0.91 to 3.67; η2 = 0.25; p = 0.002) respectively, with a large effect size, compared to the control group. There were no differences between the groups in pain intensity, thickness, and resistance of the transverse abdominal muscle. Conclusion A 4-week specific program based on re-education exercises of the preactivation of the abdominal transverse muscle is more effective than conventional treatment for reducing disability and increasing the activation of the abdominal transverse muscle measured by VAS scale and PBU. Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT03097497. Date of registration: 31/03/2017.

Background As an important treatment for chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNSLBP) , the effect of acupuncture on CNSLBP has been studied by numerous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with the development of research on acupuncture. However, there are some problems in the selection of outcome indicators, which severely hinder the generation of high-quality clinical evidence. Objective To describe the outcome measures used in RCTs of acupuncture for CNSLBP, providing a basis for the carrying out of relevant research. Methods Four Chinese databases (CNKI, VIP, Wanfang Data and SinoMed) and three English databases (PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library) were systematically searched for literature on CNSLBP treated with acupuncture published from January 1, 2017 to March 15, 2022, and the NSLBP core outcome set (COS) used in studies published from database inception to March 15, 2022. According to the enrolment criteria to analyze the following aspects: basic characteristics, classification of clinical outcome indicators, use of composite indicators, and the application of TCM Criteria for Diagnosis and Treatment of Diseases & Syndromes (hereinafter referred to as TCMCDTDS) . In addition, 11 studies published from database inception to March 15, 2022 were enrolled to analyze their basic characteristics and use of COSs of NSLBP. In addition, to analyze the studies' basic characteristics and use of NSLBP COS. The similarities and differences between COSs of NSLBP and outcome measures in the RCTs in recent five years were compared. Results Of the included 49 RCTs, four are in English and the other 45 are in Chinese, involving 4 272 cases aged from 18 to 69 years (2 049 in the treatment group, and 2 223 in the control group) . The course of CNSLBP was reported in 38 RCTs. A total of 33 outcome indicators were used in all the RCTs, divided into assessing pain, dysfunction, quality of life, activities of daily living, treatment safety, patient satisfaction, disease recognition, psychological status indicators, and other indicators. The outcome indicator number in one RCT were from 1 to 8. The outcomes were measured twice in 42 RCTs, namely before and after treatment. Safety was reported in only two RCTs. The indicator of "effective rate" in the TCMCDTDS was used in 77.55% (38/49) of the RCTs. The COSs of NSLBP in the aforementioned 11 studies include indicators assessing pain, dysfunction, quality of life, psychological status, social functioning and patient satisfaction. Three of the studies graded the domains of outcome measures in terms of importance, four covered patient satisfaction indicators, five covered psychological assessment indicators, nine used different measurement tools for different outcomes, and one used COSs of NSLBP treated with TCM. Conclusion The COSs of NSLBP used in studies and outcome measures in the included RCTs have similarities in the contents involving pain level, dysfunction, quality of life, psychological status and patient satisfaction, and differences in the selection of the type of outcome domain, direction of attention, and measurement tools. The RCTs used both primary and secondary outcome measures, had unclear measurement time points, great heterogeneity in the number of used outcome measures, and non-standard application of outcome measures, and valued efficacy outcomes but undervalued safety indicators. In view of this, we put forward the recommendation on the use of outcome measures for future relevant studies: according to the research characteristics, choosing the recognized outcome measures with reference to available COSs of NSLBP and common measurement tools.

Introduction To investigate the short-term effect of Maitland mobilization on lumbar proprioception, pain intensity, and functional disability in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNSLBP). Methods Fifty-four subjects aged 18–30 years old with CNSLBP were randomly assigned into two groups. The experimental group received a selected exercise program (stretching, strengthening, and lumbar stabilization exercises) and Maitland posterior-anterior vertebral mobilization three sessions /week, whereas the control group received exercises only. Lumbar repositioning error (LRE), pain intensity, and function disability were measured using an isokinetic dynamometer, visual analog scale (VAS), and the Arabic version of the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), respectively. Measurements were taken at baseline and four weeks after intervention. Results Within-group analysis showed a significant decrease in LRE, VAS, and ODI after treatment ( p < 0.001). Between-group analysis revealed a significant difference between groups post-intervention favoring the Maitland mobilization group ( p < 0.001) where the mean differences at 95% confidence interval were (–2.10, –1.36) for LRE, (–34.53, –25.61) for VAS and (–9, –7.07) for ODI. Conclusions Maitland lumbar mobilization is effective in improving lumbar proprioception, pain intensity, and functional disability in patients with CNSLBP.

ObjectiveTo observe the effect of sling exercise therapy (SET) on lumbar function of patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNLBP).MethodsA total of 90 patients with CNLBP in the outpatient department of the Affiliated Rehabilitation Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, were divided randomly into conventional Tuina group, exercise training group, and sling exercise group, with 30 cases in each group. The conventional Tuina group received conventional Tuina techniques for lumbar diseases; the exercise training group received the crouching tiger rushing movement in the Yijinjing exercise; the sling exercise group received SET, and the main exercise type was prone bridging training. The treatment time was 15 minutes a time, once a day, for a total of 10 days in three groups. Before and after treatment, the spinal testing and evaluation system was used to measure the maximum strength of psoas muscle flexion and extension; the root mean square (RMS) value of surface electromyography was used to evaluate the muscle activation level of transverse abdominis and multifidus from sitting to standing positions; Roland-Morris disability questionnaire (RMDQ) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) were used to assess the lumbar function.ResultsCompared with that before treatment, the maximum strength of psoas muscle flexion and extension, the RMS value of the transversus abdominis and multifidus from sitting to standing in the three groups increased significantly after treatment, the RMDQ and ODI scores decreased significantly, and the differences were statistically significant (PPP

Abstract Background Chronic nonspecific low back pain (cNLBP) is a common health problem worldwide, affecting 65–80% of the population and greatly affecting people’s quality of life and productivity. It also causes huge economic losses. Manual therapy (MT) and therapeutic exercise (TE) are effective treatment options for cNLBP physiotherapy-based treatment. However, the underlying mechanisms that promote cNLBP amelioration by MT or TE are incompletely understood. Methods Seventeen recruited subjects were randomly divided into an MT group and a TE group. Subjects in the MT group performed muscular relaxation, myofascial release, and mobilization for 20 min during each treatment session. The treatment lasted for a total of six sessions, once every two days. Subjects in the TE group completed motor control and core stability exercises for 30 min during each treatment session. The motor control exercise included stretching of the trunk and extremity muscles through trunk and hip rotation and flexion training. Stabilization exercises consisted of the (1) bridge exercise, (2) single-leg-lift bridge exercise, (3) side bridge exercise, (4) two-point bird-dog position with an elevated contralateral leg and arm, (5) bear crawl exercise, and (6) dead bug exercise. The treatment lasted for a total of six sessions, with one session every two days. Serum samples were collected from subjects before and after physiotherapy-based treatment for lipidomic and metabolomic measurements. Results Through lipidomic analysis, we found that the phosphatidylcholine/phosphatidylethanolamine (PC/PE) ratio decreased and the sphingomyelin/ceramide (SM/Cer) ratio increased in cNLBP patients after MT or TE treatment. In addition, eight metabolites enriched in pyrimidine and purine differed significantly in cNLBP patients who received MT treatment. A total of nine metabolites enriched in pyrimidine, tyrosine, and galactose pathways differed significantly in cNLBP patients after TE treatment during metabolomics analysis. Conclusion Our study was the first to elucidate the alterations in the lipidomics and metabolomics of cNLBP physiotherapy-based treatment and can expand our knowledge of cNLBP physiotherapy-based treatment.

Objective: non-interventional study ELBRUS (Etoricoxib in the Treatment of Back Pain) was conducted to investigate the efficacy and safety of daily administration of Rixia® (Etoricoxib) 60 mg per day in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain (CNSLBP).Patients and methods. The study included 50 patients (31 women and 19 men, mean age 54.3±16.8 years) with CNSLBP. Educational conversation, cognitive therapy, regular therapeutic exercises, identification and treatment of comorbidities were conducted. Patients received etoricoxib 60 mg once daily. Pain intensity was assessed on a 10-point numerical rating scale (NRS), pain-related disability was assessed on the Oswestry Scale (ODS), and emotional state was assessed on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).Results and discussion. The causes of CNSLBP were: in 5 (10%) patients – sacroiliac joint involvement, in 14 (28%) – lower lumbar facet joints involvement, in 3 (6%) – myofascial pain, the remaining 28 (56%) patients had a combination of several reasons. As a result of complex treatment, the intensity of pain at rest decreased on average from 4.0±2.5 to 1.4±1.3 points, while moving – from 6.6±1.9 to 2.8±1.8 points, at night – from 2.7±2 to 0.7±0.9 points according to the NRS, disability – from 39±18.9 to 19.9±14.6% according to the ODS, the severity of anxiety – from 6.5±3.9 to 3.3±2.4 points and depression from 5.0±3.7 to 3.1±2.9 points according to HADS (p˂0.001). The duration of treatment was 14.14±3.6 days on average. No adverse events were observed during treatment with etoricoxib.Conclusion. The efficacy and safety of etoricoxib in the complex therapy of patients with CNSLBP was noted.

Background: The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of the NADA (National Acupuncture Detoxification Association)-standardized ear acupuncture protocol in comparison to medical acupuncture (MA) in the treatment of chronic nonspecific low back pain (LBP) in older adults. Methods: This was a prospective, clinical, single center, open label, comparative study. A total of 60 older patients with chronic nonspecific LBP were enrolled in the study. The patients were divided into two groups. The MA group received treatment with medical acupuncture (MA), while the NADA group received NADA ear acupuncture once a day for 20 min, for a total of 10 sessions. The co-primary outcome measures were the reduction in pain intensity evaluated by the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) compared to baseline and improvement in patients’ quality of life (QOL) assessed in the SF-36 questionnaire before and after treatment; this was compared between the two groups. Results: After two weeks of treatment, a significant reduction compared to baseline was observed in the NRS scores following treatment with medical acupuncture as well as after the utilization of NADA ear acupuncture protocol: NRS score for average pain experienced by the patients over the previous week (NRSa) MA: p = 0.002; NADA: p < 0.001, maximum NRS score in the past week (NRSm) MA: p < 0.001; NADA: p < 0.001, and NRS score at the time of examination (NRSe) MA: p = 0.001; NADA: p < 0.001. Reduction of the NRSa score compared to baseline was significantly greater in the NADA group (p = 0.034). Significant improvements in the QOL of patients according to the SF-36 questionnaire compared to baseline were observed in the MA group in the following domains: PF (p = 0.003), RP (p = 0.002), SF (p = 0.041), RE (p = 0.005), MH (p = 0.043), HT (p = 0.013), PCS (p = 0.004), and MCS (p = 0.025); and in the NADA group, in the following domains: PF (p = 0.004), RP (p = 0.048), BP (p = 0.001), VT (p = 0.035), RE (p = 0.006), MH (p < 0.001), HT (p = 0.003), PCS (p < 0.001), and MCS (p < 0.001). There were minor complications observed in 35% of patients (total of 20 participants); 31% (9 patients) in the MA group and 39% (11 patients) in the NADA group. These were minor and quickly resolved, including insertion point pain, minor bleeding after needle removal, and one instance of fainting. No patients in either group reported worsening of LBP. These complications occurred in 4.14% of MA sessions (12 times/290 sessions) and in 6.07% of NADA acupuncture sessions (16 times/280 sessions). Conclusion: The outcomes of this study suggest that both MA and NADA ear acupuncture could be a valuable and personalized component of a comprehensive approach to managing chronic nonspecific LBP in older patients. Incorporation of MA and NADA ear acupuncture into the clinical management of chronic nonspecific LBP in elderly patients has the potential to reduce pain intensity and improve the overall quality of life of affected individuals. However, further studies are needed to confirm our findings.

Abstract Background To apply the Bio-Psych-Social (BPS) model into clinical practice, it is important not to focus on psychosocial domains only since biomedical factors can also contribute to chronic pain conditions. The cognitive functional therapy (CFT) is the management system based on the BPS model for chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNSLBP). Objectives This study aimed to compare CFT with the other interventions for CNSLBP regarding pain, disability/functional status, QoL and psychological factors. Design This study was a systematic review and meta-analysis of a randomised controlled trial. Method Literature Search was conducted in electronic search engines. Enrolled participants included 1) CNSLBP and 2) primary, secondary, or tertiary care patients. CFT was the interventions included. Comparisons were any types of treatment. Results Three studies met the eligibility criteria. The total number of participants was 336. For pain intensity, MD [95% CIs] was -1.38 [-2.78 − 0.02] and -1.01 [-1.92 − -0.10] at intermediate and long term for two studies, respectively. About disability/functional status, SMD [95% CIs] was -0.76 [-1.46 − -0.07] at the intermediate for three studies and MD [95% CIs] was -8.48 [-11.47 − -5.49] at long term for two studies. About fear of physical activity, MD [95% CIs] was -3.01 [-5.14 − -0.88] and -3.56 [-6.43 − -0.68] at intermediate and long term for two studies, respectively. No studies reported scores associated with QOL. All the quality of the evidence was very low. Conclusions Three studies were included and the quality of all the evidence was very low. Although the study found statistically significant differences in some measures, the effectiveness of the CFT will need to be re-evaluated in the future. Trial registration PROSPERO registration number CRD42020158182 .

Objective The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of the Baduanjin qigong exercise on chronic nonspecific low back pain in community-based group of elderly population. Methods Totally 76 patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain were randomly divided into the experimental group(n=37)and the control group(n=39). The control group received routine care and health education about chronic nonspecific low back pain, and the experimental group received Baduanjin qigong exercise additionally. The primary and secondary outcomes measures of this trial were pain intensity and back functional disability. The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) questionnaires were used to obtain data, which were measured respectively before intervention and three months later. Results Patients in the experimental group had a greater improvement than the controls in VAS scores after a 12-week intervention of Baduanjin exercise(P＜0. 01). The total score of ODI , dimensional scores of Lifting, Walking and Social Life in the experimental group were lower than those in the control group(P＜0. 05) . Conclusion Baduanjin qigong exercise appears to be slightly to moderately effective on relieving pain and improving function. (目的 探讨运用中医气功八段锦运动干预社区老年慢性非特异性下腰痛患者的效果。方法 将76例慢性非特异性下腰痛患者随机分为对照组和试验组, 对照组39例患者给予慢性非特异性下腰痛常规护理和健康教育, 试验组在对照组基础上进行中医气功八段锦运动干预。分别在干预前、干预12周后采用视觉模拟量表(VAS)和Oswestry功能障碍指数(ODI)问卷评价患者的疼痛程度和腰部功能情况。结果 干预12周后, 两组疼痛程度均较干预前下降, 且试验组疼痛程度低于对照组, 差异有统计学意义(P＜0. 01)。干预12周后, 试验组ODI总分及提物、步行、社会生活条目得分低于对照组, 差异有统计学意义(P＜0. 05)。结论 中医气功八段锦运动干预可有效缓解老年慢性非特异性下腰痛患者的腰部疼痛, 改善腰部功能。)

Abstract Background To investigate whether respectively radial extracoporeal shock wave therapy (rESWT) or a combination of rESWT, celecoxib and eperisone (rESWT + C + E) are superior in reducing pain in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain (cnsLBP) compared to C + E alone (a standard treatment of this condition in China). Methods 140 patients with cnsLBP were randomly allocated to rESWT (n = 47), rESWT + C + E (n = 45) or C + E alone (n = 48) for four weeks between November 2017 and March 2019. Outcome was evaluated using the Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (PSEQ), Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire and Patient Health Questionnaire 9, collected at baseline as well as one week (W1), W2, W3, W4 and W12 after baseline. Results All scores showed a statistically significant improvement over time. The PSEQ and NRS scores showed a significant Time × Treatment effect. Patients treated with rESWT had significantly lower mean NRS values than patients treated with rESWT + C + E at W1 and W3, as well as than patients treated with C + E alone at W3 and W4. No severe adverse events were observed. Conclusions rESWT may not be inferior to respectively rESWT + C + E or C + E alone in reducing pain in patients with cnsLBP. Level of Evidence: Level I, prospective, randomized, active-controlled trial. Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier NCT03337607. Registered November 09, 2017, https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03337607 . Level of evidence Level I; prospective, randomized, controlled trial.

Introduction. Kinesitherapy (KT) – one of the leading areas of patient care with chronic nonspecific (musculoskeletal pain) low back pain. For chronic lumbar pain, a standard KT is commonly used, that includes group sessions with a medical specialist. Often not taking into account the individual characteristics of patients, their attitude to KT, does not use a backpain education program in combination with KT (extended KT). Physical activity and hypodynamia are compared in patients with chronic nonspecificlow back pain in standard KT and extended KT.Aim of study is to assess the effectiveness of the standard and extended KT in the enhancement of physical activity.Materials and methods. 71 patients were observed (17 men and 54 women, average age 55.09 ± 13 years) with chronic nonspecific low back pain. Patients received non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as painkillers. 34 patients received a standard KT, 37 patients – an extended KT. Patients were asked to complete the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire, and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) at baseline, after 7 days and 90 days.Results and discussion. In the extended KT group, physical activity increased from 11 (7–16) points to 16 (13–19) points after 7 days (p = 0.001) and up to 23 (15–26) points after 3 months (p = 0.0002). There has been a statistically significant decrease in the proportion of patients with hypodynamy (p = 0.0015). There is no statistically significant increase in physical activity in the standard therapy group. The use of NSAIDs in non-specific low back pain is discussed, the effectiveness of the use of dexketoprofen (Dexalgin) during lumbar pain is noted.Conclusion. In the case of nonspecific low back pain, the extended KTimprovesphysical activity and reduce hypodynamy.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of physical therapy (kinesiotherapy or KT) for chronic non-specific low back pain (CNSLBP) in managing pain, improving functional and emotional state, and overall physical activity. Materials and methods. The study included 71 patients (17 men and 54 women) aged 1875 years (mean age 55.09 13.0 years) with CNSLBP, of whom 34 patients received standard KT and 37 patients received enhanced KT. Patients were asked to complete the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-SF) at baseline, after 7 days and 90 days. Results. In patients who received treatment, we observed a reduction in pain intensity as measured by the NPRS, from a score of 8 at baseline (68) to 3 (24) points after 7 days and down to 2 (04) after 3 months (p 0.0001). Depression severity decreased from 7 (59) points to 5 (37) after 7 days (p = 0.002) and 4 (36) points after 90 days (p = 0.002). Anxiety decreased from 7 (510) to 6 (48) after 7 days (p = 0.0003) and 5 (37) points after 90 days (p = 0.0003). The Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire score decreased from 46% (3457.77) to 28% (1235.55) after 7 days (p 0.0001), and then to 11.11% (4.4426) after 90 days (p 0.0001). Physical activity as measured by the IPAQ-SF increased from 11 (716) to 16 (1319) points after 7 days (p = 0.001) and to 23 (1526) points after 90 days (p = 0.0002). The patient group receiving enhanced KT had a more significant reduction in pain as measured by the NPRS after 7 days and 3 months (p = 0.02 and p = 0.055, respectively), depression as measured by the HADS (p 0.05), and disability as measured by the Oswestry Questionnaire (p = 0.015), accompanied by an increase in physical activity as measured by the IPAQ-SF after 90 days (p = 0.0002), as compared to the patient group receiving standard KT. Conclusion. KT not only reduces pain but also improves the functional and emotional state, and increases physical activity in patients with CNSLBP. Enhancing KT by using a personalized approach and educational programmes improves long-term treatment outcomes.

Abstract Background Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders, causing significant personal and social burden. Current research is focused on the processes of the central nervous system (particularly the sensorimotor system) and body perception, with a view to developing new and more efficient ways to treat chronic low back pain (CLBP). Several clinical tests have been suggested that might have the ability to detect alterations in the sensorimotor system. These include back-photo assessment (BPA), two-point discrimination (TPD), and the movement control tests (MCT). The aim of this study was to determine whether the simple clinical tests of BPA, TPD or MCT are able to discriminate between nonspecific CLBP subjects with altered body perception and healthy controls. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted. At one point in time, 30 subjects with CLBP and 30 healthy controls were investigated through using BPA, TPD and MCT on the lower back. Correlations among the main covariates and odds ratios for group differences were calculated. Results MCT showed an odds ratio for the presence of CLBP of 1.92, with a statistically significant p-value (0.049) and 95%CI. The TPD and BPA tests were unable to determine significant differences between the groups. Conclusions Of the three tests investigated, MCT was found to be the only suitable assessment to discriminate between nonspecific CLBP subjects and healthy controls. The MCT can be recommended as a simple clinical tool to detect alterations in the sensorimotor system of nonspecific CLBP subjects. This could facilitate the development of tailored management strategies for this challenging LBP subgroup. However, further research is necessary to elucidate the potential of all the tests to detect alterations in the sensorimotor system of CLBP subjects. Trial registration No trial registration was needed as the study contains no intervention. The study was approved by the Swiss Ethics Commission of Northwest and Central Switzerland (EKNZ) reference number 2015–243.

Abstract Background Chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNSLBP) troubles approximately 30% of people worldwide. Silver needle therapy (SNT) is a treatment method to relieve soft tissue pain through heating. Therefore, this study aimed to observe the effects of SNT on CNSLBP. Methods In this study, 100 patients were randomly divided into 2 groups: silver needle (SN) group and control group (n = 50). In the SN group, patients received SNT and physiotherapy, while patients received physiotherapy alone in the control group. At the 6-month follow-up, the numerical rating scale (NRS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Short-Form 12 of quality of life (SF-12), the natural logarithms of low-frequency measurement (InLF), and the natural logarithms of high-frequency measurement (InHF) of heart rate variability (HRV) were recorded. Results In both groups, NRS, ODI, SF-12 scores, and HRV at 2 weeks after treatment were improved and maintained for 6 months. Compared with the control group, more significant improvements were observed in the NRS and SF-12 scores at 1, 2, 3, and 6 months and in the ODI scores at 1 and 2 months in the SN group (P

Objective:To observe the clinical efficacy of the wearable back trainer combined with massage on chronic nonspecific low back pain patients.Methods:A total of 56 chronic nonspecific low back pain patients were randomly assigned to three groups. The treatment group (n=19) was treated with wearable device treatments based on massage for two weeks, once a day, eight minutes each time, five times a week, while the control group (n=19) received massage only for two weeks, once a day, 20 minutes each time, and the blank group (n=18) rest only with closely observation. The therapeutic effect of three groups were evaluated by VAS and ODI scores before the treatment, one week after treatment and two weeks after treatment respectively.Results:There was no statistical difference among the three groups in VAS score before treatment (P> 0.05). There were statistical differences among the three groups in VAS score one week after treatment and two weeks after treatment respectively (P< 0.05); the score showed a downward trend with time, the decreasing amplitude of VAS score in the treatment group was higher than that of control group two weeks after treatment (P< 0.05), and the decreasing amplitude of VAS score in the treatment group and the control group was higher respectively than that of blank group one week after treatment and two weeks after treatment (P< 0.05). There was no statistical difference among the three groups in ODI score before treatment and one week after treatment (P> 0.05). There were statistical differences among the three groups in ODI score two weeks after treatment respectively (P< 0.05); the score showed a downward trend with time in the treatment group and the control group, the decreasing amplitude of ODI score in the treatment group was higher than that of control group two weeks after treatment (P< 0.05), and the ODI value in the blank group was decreased one week after treatment and increased two weeks after treatment.Conclusion:The clinical efficacy of the wearable back trainer combined with massage has good effect on patients of chronic nonspecific low back pain, and the effect of the combined therapy is better than simple massage therapy especially in pain relief.

Among the adult population, every two persons have experienced at least an episode of back pain during their lifetime. Nonspecific (musculoskeletal) low back pain (LBP) becomes chronic in 3–10% of people. These cases require combined interdisciplinary treatment, including optimal pharmacotherapy, rational physical activity, therapeutic exercises, psychological methods, an educational program (back pain school for patients); some cases need manual therapy, massage. Psychological methods assist patients to cope with pain catastrophizing, to increase daily activity, and to reduce the likelihood of disease recurrence. The results of clinical trials and systematic reviews demonstrate that cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness therapy (mindfulness-based stress reduction) are effective in treating chronic LBP. The paper describes a clinical case: an example of effective treatment of a female patient with chronic nonspecific LBP, by applying an integral interdisciplinary approach.

Abstract Background Prefabricated foot orthoses are used to treat chronic nonspecific low back pain, however their effectiveness and potential mechanism of action is unclear. The primary aims of the study are to investigate the effectiveness of prefabricated foot orthotic devices for reducing pain and improving function in people with chronic nonspecific low back pain over 52 weeks. Methods This study is a participant and assessor blinded, parallel-group, superiority randomised (1:1) controlled trial. The study will recruit 60 participants aged 18 to 65 years with chronic nonspecific low back pain. Participants will undergo randomisation to a control group (The Back Book) or an intervention group (prefabricated foot orthoses and The Back Book). The primary outcome measures will be change in pain and function from baseline to 12 (primary time point), 26, and 52 weeks. Secondary outcome measures include: gluteus medius muscle activity and transversus abdominis muscle thickness from baseline to 12 weeks, physical activity over 12, 26, and 52 weeks, and correlation between foot type and change in measures of pain and function. Number of hours per day and week that the prefabricated orthoses are worn, as well as, adverse events will be self-reported by participants. Data will be analysed using the intention-to-treat principle. Discussion This trial will primarily evaluate the effectiveness of prefabricated foot orthotic devices for reducing pain and improving function in people with chronic nonspecific low back pain over 52 weeks. It is expected that this study will provide clinicians and researchers with an understanding of the role that prefabricated foot orthoses may have in the treatment of chronic nonspecific low back pain and a potential mechanism of action, and whether foot type influences the outcome. Trial registration ACTRN12618001298202.

Objective:To observe the clinical curative effect of Baduanjin training in the therapy of chronic nonspecific low back pain.Methods:A total of 60 cases of chronic nonspecific low back pain were randomly divided into observation group and control group with 30 cases in each group. The control group only was treated by conventional rehabilitation therapy, the observation group was trained by Baduanjin practice on the basis of the control group. The patient's pain was assessed by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), the patient's confidence in daily activities was assessed by the Pain Self-efficacy Questionnaire (PSEQ), the patient's anxiety and depression were assessed by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the patient's functional status were assessed by the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) before treatment and at the end of the treatment.Results:At the end of 8 weeks treatment, the VAS, HADS and ODI scores of the observation group and the control group were significantly lower than before treatment, the PSEQ was significantly higher than before the treatment, with statistically significant differences (PP

The incidence of chronic nonspecific low back pain is high, which leads to patients'dysfunction and affects their overall health. Conservative treatment is the major intervention approach for nonspecific low back pain. Multidisciplinary integrated rehabilitation therapy is usually applied. The close association between respiration and chronic nonspecific low back pain has been founded in recent years. Respiratory mechanics and chemical abnormalities can lead to chronic nonspecific low back pain. The main manifestation is the appearance and recurrence of pain and other complications. The occurrence of low back pain can also lead to abnormal breathing patterns. Therefore, it is especially necessary to study this disease from respiratory aspect. Here we analyze the pathological mechanism of chronic nonspecific low back pain, expounds the principle of prevention and treatment of this disease, and introduces relevant clinical studies from two aspects of modern rehabilitation medicine and traditional Chinese medicine to enrich its treatment system, so as to explore the intervention method of breathing training and improve treatment effects.

Study DesignClinical pilot study.PurposeTo objectively evaluate the compliance rate of lumbar-support use in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain, as well as to assess low back pain intensity, disability, and fear-avoidance beliefs.Overview of LiteratureWearing time is an important factor in the assessment of the efficacy of lumbar-support use in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain. Previous studies have measured lumbar-support wearing time based on subjective assessment, and these evaluations are not easily verifiable and are usually overestimated by subjects.MethodsTwelve subjects with chronic nonspecific low back pain who had been wearing semirigid lumbar supports for 6 weeks were evaluated. Compliance was objectively monitored using temperature sensors integrated into the semirigid lumbar supports. Subjects wore their lumbar supports for 8 hour/day on workdays and 3 hour/day on holidays during the first 3 weeks. During the next 3 weeks, subjects were gradually weaned off the lumbar supports. Pain intensity was measured using a numerical rating scale. The Oswestry disability index was used to assess the subjects' disability. Fear-avoidance behavior was evaluated using a fear-avoidance beliefs questionnaire.ResultsThe mean compliance rate of the subjects was 78.16%±13.9%. Pain intensity was significantly lower in patients with a higher compliance rate (p=0.001). Disability index and fear-avoidance beliefs (functional outcomes) significantly improved during the second 3-weeks period of the treatment (p

Low back pain is one of the most frequent causes of seeking doctor's aid and temporary disability of patients. The leading role in the examination belongs to clarification of complaints, medical history, quick physical and neurological examination which help to exclude presence of a specific disease, and in most cases there is no need for instrumental examination. Information about benign nature of the disease, high probability of quick recovery, benefits of adhering to an active lifestyle, use of pain relieving nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and muscle relaxants could be of great value for patients with acute nonspecific back pain. To ensure efficacy, treatment for chronic non-specific back pain should be multidisciplinary and include physical therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, optimization of drug therapy. In case of discogenic radiculopathy, epidural corticosteroids and anesthetic could also be effective, and only a small proportion of patients need surgical treatment. The article provides the authors' findings on the efficacy and safety of NSAIDs, such as meloxicam (Movalis), for managing low back pain.

Back pain is encountered in nearly 80–90% of the population; patient management is not only a medical, but also important socioeconomic problem.Objective: to comparatively evaluate the efficiency of yoga and zhen-jiu (acupuncture) therapy in the combination treatment of patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain (LBP).Patients and methods. Sixty patients with chronic nonspecific LBP were examined and randomized in groups: 20 patients received symptomatic therapy only (a control group), 20 patients used yoga (Group 1) and 20 more patients had zhen-jiu therapy in addition to symptomatic therapy (Group 2).Results. As compared to the controls, Groups 1 and 2 patients showed a significant increase in the scope of lumbar spine movements and a decrease in the degree of pain syndrome. The investigation demonstrated the efficiency of yoga and zhen-jiu therapy versus symptomatic therapy in the combination treatment of chronic nonspecific LBP, by simultaneously reducing the number of side effects.Conclusion. It is necessary to conduct large controlled randomized studies evaluating the efficiency of yoga and zhen-jiu therapy in these patients.