Effects of aquatic therapy with open and closed kinetic chain exercises on psychological factors, pain, and lumbo­pelvic stability in men with non-specific chronic low back pain: A randomized clinical trial

Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a leading cause of absenteeism and increased reliance on health insurance and healthcare services, impacting individuals' daily lives and overall quality of life. This study aimed to examine the impacts of aquatic open and closed kinetic chain exercises on psychological factors, pain, and lumbo-pelvic stability in men with non-specific CLBP.

In a randomized controlled clinical trial, 60 men with non-specific CLBP (diagnosed by a specialist) were randomly assigned to three groups: closed chain exercises in water, open chain exercises in water, and a control group. The intervention groups followed a prescribed exercise regimen for eight weeks, with three sessions per week in the pool. Pain was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), lumbo-pelvic stability was measured with the Pressure Biofeedback Stability device, and psychological variables were evaluated using the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21). The ANCOVA test was used to compare post-test values among groups while controlling for pre-test effects.

Significant differences were observed between the control group and both the open chain and closed chain exercise groups in terms of pain, lumbo-pelvic stability, and psychological variables (p<0.05).

The implementation of open and closed chain exercise programs in aquatic environments proved effective in reducing pain among individuals with CLBP, also showing potential for improving lumbo-pelvic stability and psychological well-being. Hydrotherapy programs, as part of comprehensive rehabilitation strategies, may be beneficial for patients with CLBP.