The Effect of Core Stability Exercises with Abdominal Hollowing on Plantar Pressure Distribution Symmetry in Females with Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain: An Experimental Study

Weakness and change of balance strategy can affect the plantar pressure distribution symmetry. The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of core stability exercises (CSE) along with the abdominal drawing-in maneuver (ADIM) on the plantar pressure distribution symmetry in women with chronic non-specific low back pain (CNLBP).

In this experimental study, the statistical population was 30 women with CNLBP referred to five orthopedic clinics in Hamedan in 2020. They were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups (15 people in each group). The experimental group performed CSE along with ADIM for 8 weeks. The control group did not receive any intervention. Plantar pressure distribution was evaluated before and after the intervention. Analysis of covariance was used to compare the results between the groups.

The experimental group with a higher effect size in the symmetry of the right-left foot pressure distribution (ηp2=0.749, p<0.001), the symmetry of the fore-back pressure distribution of the right foot (ηp2=0.556, p<0.001), and the symmetry of fore-back pressure distribution of the left foot (ηp2= 0.597, p<0.001) had a significant difference with the control group.

It is suggested that patients perform a combination of CSE and ADIM to strengthen both the mechanical and respiratory aspects of the core muscles of the body through increasing the activation of deep muscles as stabilizing and respiratory muscles. The combination of these protocols through stabilization of the spine can disperse the high forces and balance the plantar pressure distribution, and reduce the pain intensity.