LOWER BACK MUSCLE SIZE & DISABILITY

A recent study followed just under 1000 people with low back pain and disability. An MRI was done to calculate the size of the back muscles (cross sectional area) at the start of the study and again 12 months later. Those who had increased the size of their low back muscles over the 12 months had lower levels of disability compared to those who remained unchanged. This study further emphasizes the importance of regular specific back strengthening exercises to help low back pain sufferers better manage their activities of daily living.