Impact of Lumbar Stabilization Exercises on Pain and Functional Disability in Patients With Chronic Lumbosacral Strain

Abstract

Background: Chronic lumbosacral strain is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition characterized by persistent lower back pain and functional limitations, adversely affecting daily activities and quality of life. Conventional therapies often provide limited long-term benefits, highlighting the need for targeted interventions that restore spinal stability and improve functional outcomes. Objective: To assess the effectiveness of a structured lumbar stabilization exercise program on pain intensity and functional disability in adults with chronic lumbosacral strain. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted in outpatient physiotherapy clinics in South Punjab over twelve weeks. Eighty participants aged 25–55 years with persistent lumbosacral discomfort were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n=40) receiving progressive lumbar stabilization exercises or a control group (n=40) receiving conventional physiotherapy and educational guidance. Pain was measured using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and functional disability was assessed with the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Data were analyzed using paired and independent t-tests, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Participants in the intervention group demonstrated significant reductions in VAS scores (mean change: -3.8 ± 1.2) compared with the control group (-1.4 ± 0.9, p<0.001). Functional disability improved substantially in the intervention group, with ODI scores decreasing by 28.5% ± 7.6%, versus 9.2% ± 5.3% in controls (p<0.001). No adverse events were reported, and adherence rates were high across supervised sessions. Conclusion: Structured lumbar stabilization exercises significantly reduced pain and improved functional capacity in adults with chronic lumbosacral strain. These findings support the integration of targeted, progressive exercise interventions into rehabilitation programs as a safe, effective, and practical strategy for managing chronic lower back disorders.