Comparison of the effect of lumbar segmental stabilization exercises and general exercises on static postural stability in patients with grade I spondylolisthesis

Abstract

Background and aim: Spondylolisthesis is known as a slippage of a vertebra against the caudal one and causes a spinal segmental instability. There is no consensus on the most useful type of exercises. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of stabilization and general exercises on pain, disability and postural stability variables in these patients. Methods: 24 patients randomly assigned into the stabilization (n=12) and general exercise (n=12) groups. Both groups performed the exercises 2 times a week for a period of 2 months. Visual analogue scale (VAS) and Quebec back pain disability questionnaire were used to assess the pain and functional disability, respectively. Postural stability has been evaluated by using a force platform with eyes opened and closed while standing on firm and foam base of support. The mean total velocity (M-V) and the SD of velocity in sagittal (SD-Vy) and frontal (SD-Vx) plan were the parameters chosen to address the postural stability. Results: There was a significant decrease in VAS and Quebec in both stabilization and general exercise groups (P= 0.001, P< 0.001 for VAS and P= 0.001, P= 0.001 for Quebec respectively). Significant decrease has been observed in SD-Ax, SD-Ay, SD-A, CV-Ax, CV-Ay and CV-A in both groups (P<0.001). M-V and M-A increased significantly in the stabilization group. Conclusion: Both the stabilization and general exercises can improve pain, disability and postural stability in spondylolisthesis patients. The effectiveness of these exercises may be in different directions.