Abstract

Purpose. This study aimed to investigate and compare the effect of lumbar stabilization exercises versus Kinesio taping on pain intensity level, functional disabilities, and lumbar range of motion (ROM) on non-specific LBP in post-menopausal women. Materials and Methods. 60 post-menopausal women diagnosed with chronic non-specific LBP participated in this study. Their ages ranged from 50 to 60 years. They were randomly assigned into three groups equal in numbers.  Group A received traditional physical therapy only. Group B received lumbar stabilization exercises and traditional physical therapy. Group C received Kinesio taping technique and traditional physical therapy. All patients received the treatment 3 times per week for 6 weeks. The pain was measured by visual analogue scale (VAS), functional disability was measured by the Oswestry disability index (ODI), and lumbar ROM was measured by a double inclinometer. Results. The group A, B, and C revealed significant decreases in VAS score, ODI score, and significant increases in lumbar flexion and extension ROM post=treatment. Group B and C showed significant decreases in VAS score, and ODI score, and significant increases in lumbar flexion and extension ROM when compared to group A. However, there were no significant differences between group B and group C in all variables post=treatment. Conclusions. Both lumbar stabilization exercises and Kinesio taping have beneficial and similar effects in reducing pain, improving functional ability, and increasing ROM in postmenopausal women with non-specific LBP.

Key words:

Lumbar stabilization, Kinesio taping, Non-specific low back pain, Post menopause