Exercise machine for lumbago

IRSST and Universite de Montreal study on treatment of common disability

Low back pain (or lumbago) is a common ailment often triggered by something as simple as lifting a suitcase. What is the best way to remedy the situation? An exercise machine designed specifically for back muscles could be the solution according to a new study published in the Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine.

"If you want to bring about physiological change to help the development and endurance of back muscles, you must focus your training on those specific muscles and not other muscular groups such as hip extensors," says Christian Larivi-re, a professor at the Institut de recherche Robert-Sauv- en sant- et en s-curit- du travail (IRSST), who conducted the study with Universit- de Montr-al researchers Bertrand Arsenault, Rubens A. Da Silva, Sylvie Nadeau, Andr- Plamondon et Roger Vadeboncoeur.

The investigation requested that subjects aged 18 to 65 - some healthy and others with low back pain - complete various exercises. Electromyography (EMG) sensors were used to measure the level of activity and fatigue in various muscles during the routine. "Thanks to this technique, we can target tired muscles which aren't yet showing a decrease in strength," says Larivi-re.

Test subjects also used a machine designed for back exercises in a semi-sitting position. Results clearly showed that using this machine was beneficial. Using a cushion to stabilize the pelvis brought about a better response from the back muscles. In addition, extending the legs strengthened muscles. "Therefore, we can decrease the use of hip muscles and in turn increase the use of the back muscles," says Larivi-re.

Such exercises can only help reduce pain and disabilities caused by back pain, says Larivi-re. He recommends those who suffer severe hurt begin with stretches on the ground with low to medium effort. "Progressively, the individual will gain confidence and can use machines that require superior strength," he says.

Larivi-re highlights the fact that six out of 10 Quebecers will suffer from back pain in their lifetime. "Musculoskeletal disorders are a serious public health issue," says Larivi-re. "They're also an economic problem. In 2007, back pain cost Quebec's Commission de la sant- et de la s-curit- du travail $516 million in worker compensations."