Effectiveness of resisted training through translation of the pelvis in chronic low back pain.

BACKGROUND: Resisted training of the trunk muscles improves outcomes in chronic low back pain (CLBP). The Itensic b-effect machine was designed to provide resisted training through posterior translation of the pelvis in a seated, forward-tilted position, in contrast with traditional machines that involve extension of the trunk. OBJECTIVE: To study the effectiveness of lumbopelvic training on the Itensic b-effect machine in individuals with CLBP. METHODS: Participants were allocated to 4 weeks of either progressive Itensic (I) training in addition to an education/exercise (EE) program (I+EE group, n= 23) or the education/exercise program alone (EE group, n= 22). PRIMARY OUTCOME: Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ). SECONDARY OUTCOMES: pain (0-10 numeric rating scale), trunk extensor endurance (Sorensen test), motor control (thoraco-lumbar dissociation test) and mobility (finger-to-floor test). RESULTS: RMDQ score improved more in the I+EE group than in the EE group (with a between-group difference at the pos-test). Pain and mobility improved in the I+EE group only, motor control improved in both groups with no between-group difference and the Sorensen test did not improve significantly in either group. CONCLUSIONS: Resisted posterior pelvic translation using the Itensic machine in addition to an education/exercise program improved disability, pain and mobility more than the education/exercise program alone.