Effect of the Trunk Extension Endurance Training on Degenerative Lumbar Disease

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to carry out trunk back muscle endurance training for degenerative lumbar disease patients, to examine its influence on VAS pain and the JOABPEQ. Subjects: The subjects were 27 outpatients with degenerative lumbar disease, and an average age of 72.2 plus or minus 8.3 years. Methods: In the training group (T group), there were 15 subjects who performed back muscle endurance training during exercise; and in the control group (C group), there were 12 subjects who performed only exercise. The endurance of trunk back muscles was measured three times, once every month, as well as VAS pain and the JOABPEQ. Results: The endurance of trunk back muscle of the T group reached a significantly higher level by the third month, and VAS pain showed a significantly lower level after two or three months. Furthermore, in the C group only lumbar vertebrae dysfunction of JOABPEQ showed a significantly higher level in the second month. Conclusion: The results suggest that trunk back muscle endurance training for patients with degenerative lumbar disease is effective at alleviating pain and improving ADL.