Effects of nerve mobilization on gait and static standing parameters in subjects with low back pain

Low back pain is one of the most common health problems in society. Common symptoms that can be associated with low back pain include; pain, functional disability, gait and balance disturbances. There are limited randomized-controlled studies that investigate the effects of nerve mobilization in low back pain. The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of nerve mobilization on gait and static standing parameters in subjects with low back pain. Sixty participants are included our study, sample consisted of 20 individuals with low back pain (study group, mean age: 39.45±8.55 years), 21 individuals with low back pain (control group, mean age: 38.33±9.70 years) and 19 healthy controls without low back pain (mean age: 35.94±9.70 years). Demographic characteristics of all participants were recorded pain (visual analog scale), straight leg raise degree, and disability level (Oswestry Disability Index) were evaluated before and after the treatment. Gait and static standing parameters were measured by Zebris-FDM-2 platform. There were statistically significant differences between before-after treatment measurements of visual analog scale and Oswestry Disability Index in study and control groups (p<0.05). There was a statistically significant increase in before-after treatment measurements of straight leg raise degrees in study and healthy control groups (p<0.05). There was a statistically significant difference in percentage of swing and double support phase parameters in all three groups (p<0.05). Outcomes of study showed that nerve mobilization is an effective method for increasing painless hip flexion range and functionality and decreasing pain. Achievements were obtained in gait and static standing parameters with nerve mobilization. Nerve mobilization tecniquies could be used routinely in the treatment of low back pain. Further research is required to practice different nerve mobilization tecniquies with varied sessions and repetitions.