Muscular performance after a 3 month progressive physical exercise program and 9 month follow-up in subjects with low back pain. A controlled study

The purpose of this study was to assess, in subjects with low back pain, the changes and their permanence in muscular performance after a 3 month progressive physical exercise program. Ninety subjects with chronic low back pain participated in the study. The study design was controlled and it was carried out in three groups: intensive training, home exercise, and control group. Isometric and dynamic muscle strength of the trunk and lower limb were measured, at the beginning of the study and after the 3 months exercise program, and then during each of the follow-up sessions. The Oswestry Index and back pain intensity were also determined. Both exercise groups received benefit from the progre…