The effects of synchronized and non-synchronized telerehabilitation programs in the management of chronic non-specific low back pain

This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of synchronized and non-synchronized telerehabilitation programs for managing chronic non-specific low back pain (CNLBP). The study included 72 volunteers with CNLBP (31F, 41M; 41.26±10.97 years) admitted through an online and social media advertisement campaign between January 2023 and May 2023. A custom-made questionnaire was used to record the sociodemographic features of the participants. The pain levels were assessed using a numerical visual analog scale. The Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire and the Oswestry Disability Index were used to assess the disability status of participants. Fear of movement was assessed using the Tampa Scale for kinesiophobia. SF-12 was used to assess the quality of life. Subjects were randomly assigned into synchronized telerehabilitation group (Group 1, n = 24), non-synchronized group (Group 2, n = 24), and control digital book-based telerehabilitation group (Group 3, n = 24). Subjects in groups 1, 2, and 3 participated in the patient education program. Core stabilization, and stretching exercises were demonstrated to Group 1 (twice a week for a total of 12 weeks). The same exercises program was given to Group 2 as pre-recorded videos (12 weeks) and to controls as a digital book (PDF file). Our main results demonstrate that pain levels, disability status, fear of movement, and quality of life were improved at week 12 in groups 1, 2, and controls (p<0.05). The post hoc Turkey test revealed superiority for group 1, followed by group 2. In conclusion, real-time synchronized telerehabilitation program is superior to a pre-recording non-synchronized telerehabilitation program in terms of pain, disability status, kinesiophobia, and quality of life. We recommend further studies considering telerehabilitation for low back pain and other health-related concerns. Key Words: exercises, low back pain, chronic nonspecific, telerehabilitation, online rehabilitation, physiotherapy, self-management.