Objective: Low back pain (LBP) has commonly been managed via classification-specific interventions in homogeneous groups. However, it is largely unknown whether treatment tailored to specific classifications is more effective than generic treatment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of classification-specific treatment on the self-reported responses and erector spinae (ES) activity of patients with LBP exhibiting a lumbar extension-rotation (ExtRot) pattern.

Methods: In total, 39 patients exhibiting the lumbar ExtRot pattern were randomized to an experimental (n = 19) group and a control (n = 20) group. Participants in the experimental group received classification-specific treatment, which included exercise to control or prevent lumbopelvic motion during lower-extremity movement. Participants in the control group were encouraged to perform general exercises and were educated about LBP. Patient-reported pain intensity, disability, and fear-avoidance belief and ES muscle activity during walking were assessed prior to and after the intervention. Two-way analysis of covariance was used to examine the effects of classification-specific treatment.

Results: After 6-week intervention, significant time-by-group interaction effects were demonstrated on pain intensity, disability, fear-avoidance beliefs-physical activity score, and ES muscle activity during walking. There were significant effects of group on pain, disability, and fear-avoidance beliefs-physical activity score after intervention. After the 6-week intervention, the ES muscle activity significantly decreased in the experimental group during walking, but does not represent an all-events decrease.

Conclusion: Classification-specific treatment may be effective in patients with LBP exhibiting the lumbar ExtRot pattern, reducing pain intensity, disability, fear-avoidance beliefs, and ES muscle activity during walking.

Author keywords: Back Muscle; Disability; Fear; Lower Back Pain; Walking

Author affiliations: SHK: Department of Physical Therapy, Sangji University, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do, South Korea; KNP: Department of Physical Therapy, Jeonju University, Jeonju-si, Jeonrabuk-do, South Korea; OYK: Department of Physical Therapy, Yonsei University, Wonju-si, Gangwon-Do, South Korea

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