Ultrasound imaging and low back pain

Low back pain is a growing global problem. According to a WHO report from 2003, 80% of the world s population will experience LBP at some point in their lives. Pain is the most common reason for people to seek aid from the doctor or a physical therapist. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of specific pilates-based trunk stabilizing exercises on low back pain within an eight week intervention period. This study also concentrated on measuring thickness of the Transversus abdominis muscle before and after the intervention. The measurements were conducted with an ultrasound imaging device. The ultrasound imaging device was used as a diagnostic tool as well as a form of biofeedback. Results indicated that specific lumbar area exercises with pilates-based approach combined with lateral breathing technique have efficacy in management of low back pain. This study should serve anybody dealing with low back pain. It is useful for persons experiencing low back pain and all health care professionals, eg. physiotherapists, medical doctors and health care and medical students.