The Effect of Eight Weeks Aquatic and Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization Exercises on Postural Sways and Foot Pressure Distribution Symmetry in Patients with Nonspecific Chronic Low Back Pain

Low back pain is the most common musculoskeletal disorder that is the cause of disability and absence from work. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of six weeks of aquatic and dynamic neuromuscular stabilization (DNS) exercises on postural sways and the plantar pressure distribution symmetry (PPDS) in patients with non-specific chronic low back pain (n-CLBP). Thirty-six n-CLBP patients were randomly divided into three groups: DNS group (n = 12), aqua exercises (n = 12) and control (n = 12). The PPDS and postural sways were assessed by PT-scan. The experimel groups participated in the interventions for 6 weeks (three times per week) and the control group did not receive any treatment during this period. The results of this study showed that, there was no significant difference between groups in postural sways and the PPDS (p>0/05). Also, paired sample t-test results showed that intervention groups had significant differences in PPDS, the center of pressure path length and sways area from pre-tests to post-tests (P <0.05). Moreover, the aqua group had a reduction in the standard deviation of the center of pressure medial-lateral sways (SDx). (p<0/05). According to the results of the current study, aqua and DNS exercises improve postural sways and PPDS in patients with n-CLBP. Therefore, in rehabilitation programs, the use of DNS exercises by activation of spinal stabilizing muscles similar to common aqua exercises is recommended to improve patients' postural sways and the PPDS.