The comparative effectiveness of a multimodal program versus exercise alone for the secondary prevention of chronic low back pain and disability.

Objective: The objective of this study was to examine whether a multimodal, secondary prevention program (MP) is superior to a general physical exercise program (EP) in influencing the process leading to chronic low back pain (LBP) in nurses with a history of back pain.

Design: The study was conducted as a randomized controlled parallel-group trial.

Setting: The interventions were performed in a single center at the Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine at the University of Munich in Germany.

Reliability of a test measuring transversus abdominis muscle recruitment with a pressure biofeedback unit.

Background: There are indications that segmental stabilising exercises (SSEs) are effective in the treatment of low back pain. The evaluation of successful training in SSE performance in patients requires a reliable outcome measure. The PRONE test gives an indication of the activity of the transversus abdominis muscle.

Change factors explaining reductions of "interference" in a multidisciplinary and an exercise prevention program for low back pain.

Objectives: To identify relevant changes in process variables that are associated with outcome following an exercise and a multidisciplinary secondary prevention program for low back pain.

Methods: Data from a randomized controlled clinical trial to examine the effectiveness of an exercise and a multidisciplinary prevention program were analyzed using multiple regression analyses. The specific goal was to examine the amount of variance in changes in "interference" postintervention that could be explained by prechanges to postchanges in physical and psychologic parameters, and to determine if there are interactions between physical/psychologic parameters and the program type.

Segmental stabilizing exercises and low back pain. What is the evidence? A systematic review of randomized controlled trials.

Study Design: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials.

Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of segmental stabilizing exercises for acute, subacute and chronic low back pain with regard to pain, recurrence of pain, disability and return to work.

Methods: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, PEDro and article reference lists were searched from 1988 onward.