Low back pain has emerged as a widespread issue, contributing to disability in the modern era. Previously, it was predominantly linked to intervertebral disc disease and degenerative processes. However, recent research has increasingly associated low back pain with the conditions of osteoarticular and musculoligamentous structures in the spine, as well as the statics of the pelvis.

In 2009, a study conducted by Agnieszka, et. al., aimed to compare the effectiveness of two distinct physiotherapeutic approaches in treating low back pain. The study involved 60 female patients, divided into two groups.

In the experimental group, patients received a personalized treatment program. This program consisted of post-isometric muscle and ligament relaxation, active spinal mobilization, Kibler Fold mobilization, Kinesiology Taping, and Maigne’s relaxation exercises. On the other hand, the control group underwent electrotherapy procedures and followed a set of exercises typically recommended for low back pain. The assessment criteria included pain intensity, daily activity difficulties, spinal mobility, pelvic static balance, muscle and ligament tenderness and tension, and the presence of trigger points for pain.

The researchers employed basic statistical methods to analyze the data, including characteristics distribution and a comparison of means in independent groups, utilizing the Mann-Whitney U test.

The outcomes of the study were promising. In the experimental group, approximately 90% of patients reported a reduction in low back pain. Additionally, around 80% of these patients experienced improvements in pelvic static balance, muscle and ligament tone, and spinal mobility. On the other hand, the control group showed reduced radiating pain and improved ligaments in only 25% of participants. Most other parameters in the control group did not exhibit significant changes. These findings were statistically significant at a p-value of less than 0.05.

In conclusion, this study underscores the potential effectiveness of holistic physiotherapy in treating low back pain. This approach, which includes elements of osteopathy such as post-isometric muscle relaxation, active mobilization, Kibler Fold mobilization, customized self-therapy, and Kinesiology Taping, yielded favorable results. The holistic physiotherapy approach offers promise for individuals suffering from low back pain, providing an alternative to traditional electrotherapy and exercise-based treatments. Further research in this area is warranted to explore the full potential of this holistic approach in managing low back pain and improving patients’ quality of life.

Reference: Adamczyk, A., Kiebzak, W., Wilk-Frańczuk, M., & Sliwiński, Z. (2009). Effectiveness of holistic physiotherapy for low back pain. Ortopedia, traumatologia, rehabilitacja, 11(6), 562-576.