The effect of Pilates exercises and Kinesio taping on pain in subjects with non-specific chronic low back

Chronic low back pain (LBP) is a growing problem in many communities، but there is no consensus regarding the most appropriate therapeutic intervention. Recently، Pilates exercises that is an approach to mind and body health، has been accepted as a rehabilitation method. Also، one of the other new therapeutic method is Kinesio Taping claimed to be able to reduce pain، swelling and muscle spasms and has been prevalent in orthopedic، sport medicine، and neuromuscular rehabilitation. Purpose of this study was to examine the effect of Pilates exercises and Kinesio Taping on intensity of pain and Functional disability in male subjects with non-specific chronic LBP.

Twenty four male with nonspecific chronic LBP (mean age ± SD; 54 ± 6/82 years old) were purposefully selected and assigned into two groups of twelve persons. For the first group، Pilates exercises were carried out and the second group were taped with Kinesio Tape. The duration of treatment was 6 week for two groups. VAS scale for the assessment of pain and Quebec functional disability scale for functional disability assessment were used. For data analysis Repeated measure ANOVA was applied at the significant level of 0. 05.

A significant improvement was shown in pain and functional disability in both groups after intervention (P < 0. 001). On the other hand، comparing data after intervention showed prominent difference in pain intensity between two groups (P < 0. 001). But، no significant difference in functional disability between two groups were notified (P = 0. 188).

It can be concluded that Pilates exercise have better effect than Kinesio Taping، in decreasing the pain and increasing function in men with non specific chronic LBP.