Comparative Effectiveness of Manual Therapy and Exercise Therapy in Treating Lower Back Pain

  • Aryam Mokbel Ayed Alenazi et. al
Keywords: Lower back pain (LBP), Manual therapy, Exercise therapy, Spinal manipulation, Pain relief, Mobility improvement

Abstract

Lower back pain (LBP) is a prevalent condition that significantly affects individuals' quality of life and productivity. Two common non-invasive treatments for LBP are manual therapy and exercise therapy. Manual therapy encompasses hands-on techniques such as spinal manipulation and soft tissue mobilization, aimed at reducing pain and improving mobility. In contrast, exercise therapy focuses on strengthening and stabilizing the muscles of the lower back through tailored physical activity programs. Recent studies suggest that while both methods can be effective in alleviating symptoms, their comparative effectiveness may vary based on individual patient characteristics, duration of treatment, and the severity of the condition. Research has demonstrated that manual therapy can provide immediate pain relief and improve function, making it a suitable option for acute lower back pain. On the other hand, exercise therapy tends to yield more sustainable long-term benefits, promoting stronger muscular support and reducing the likelihood of future episodes of pain. Combining both modalities may offer the best outcome for patients, providing immediate relief and fostering long-term resilience. As healthcare providers continue to explore the optimal treatment pathways for LBP, understanding the distinct advantages and limitations of these therapeutic options is crucial in tailoring interventions to support recovery effectively.

Author Biography

Aryam Mokbel Ayed Alenazi et. al

Aryam Mokbel Ayed Alenazi¹, Lubna Salem R Alatawi², Qasem Abdullah Ali Alhajuj³, Salha Hussein Ahmed Hamdi⁴, Mai Mohammed Ahmed Al Zahrani⁵, Aeshah Sulaiman Alhawiti⁶, Bashaer Ali Ali Alyamani⁷, Hussein Ali Alsaqr⁸, Norah Sharid Almutairi⁹, Budur Abdulqader Albalawi¹⁰

¹ Senior Physiotherapy Specialist at Maternity and Children Hospital in Tabuk, Tabuk Region, Saudi Arabia.
² Physiotherapist at Irada and Mental Health Cluster in Tabuk, Tabuk Region, Saudi Arabia.
³ Physiotherapist at Eradah and Mental Health Complex in Tabuk, Tabuk Region, Saudi Arabia.
⁴ Physical Therapy Technician at Irada Complex for Mental Health in Tabuk, Tabuk Region, Saudi Arabia.
⁵ Physical Therapy Technician at Al-Qurayyat General Hospital in Al-Qurayyat, Al-Jawf Region, Saudi Arabia.
⁶ Physical Therapy Technician at Haql General Hospital in Haql, Tabuk Region, Saudi Arabia.
⁷ Physiotherapy Specialist at King Khalid Hospital in Tabuk, Tabuk Region, Saudi Arabia.
⁸ Physiotherapist at Ahad Rufaidah General Hospital in Ahad Rufaidah, Asir Region, Saudi Arabia.
⁹ Physical Therapy Technician at Maternity and Children Hospital in Tabuk, Tabuk Region, Saudi Arabia.
¹⁰ Physiotherapist at King Khaled Hospital in Tabuk, Tabuk Region, Saudi Arabia.

Published
2023-10-04
Section
Regular Issue