Effectiveness of Stretching and Strengthening Program of Core Muscles on Lumbar Dysfunction in Housewives.

Abstract

Introduction: Lumbar dysfunction in housewives in India is a growing concern, as the demands of daily household tasks often lead to physical strain and musculoskeletal disorders. The core muscles, which include the abdominal, back, and pelvic muscles, play a vital role in maintaining spinal stability and supporting proper posture. Weakness or dysfunction in these muscles can exacerbate the risk of lumbar injury and pain. Strengthening and stretching exercises specifically targeting the core muscles can help to improve posture, enhance flexibility, and alleviate pain, making them a promising approach to preventing and managing lumbar dysfunction.

Methods: The study was conducted to explore and evaluate the effectiveness of stretching and strengthening program specifically designed to ease lumbar spine dysfunction in 47 housewives according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria of the study. The outcome measures of the study were Numerical pain rating scale, MMT and Lumbar range of motions using modified Schober’s test. The Intervention protocol was for 3weeks, 6 days a week 45 minutes. Subjects were given stretching and strengthening program of 3weeks to determine its effect on the pain and range of motion of Lumbararea.

Result: Results revealed significant improvements in Lumbar range of motion; lumbar flexion(29.56 ± 7.9 vs49.89 ± 11.8), lumbar extension (14.9±5.47 vs 24.94±7.8), lumbar right side flexion (25.4 ± 7.89 vs 31.8 ± 8.1), lumbar left side flexion (19.5 ± 5.7 vs 28.7 ± 7.8), reduction in pain(7.97 ± 0.820 vs 5 ± 0.834) and Oswestry Disability Index (28.25 ± 5.697 vs 15.61 ± 2.592).

Conclusion:  Stretching and strengthening program of core muscles has found to be effective in housewives who are suffering from lumbar dysfunction.