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Exercises on a balance cushion to influence lumbar vertebral syndrome

Zlatkova, Krasimira1; Zlatkov, Yuliyan1

Published May 16, 2023; Updated Aug 28, 2025 on Dryad. https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.b8gtht7hh

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May 16, 2023 version files 16.70 KB
Aug 28, 2025 version files 25.88 KB

Abstract

Background: Low back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders, often associated with lumbar vertebral syndrome. Various conservative treatments are available, including exercise therapy and manual techniques. The aim of this study is to describe a kinesitherapeutic program of balance cushion exercises and to evaluate its effectiveness, supplemented with manual trigger point therapy, in reducing pain, improving lumbar mobility, and enhancing neurodynamic function in patients with lumbar vertebral syndrome.

Methods: Twenty participants with chronic low back pain with symptoms persisting for at least 3 months (mean age: 29.8 ± 3.89 years; 10 men, 10 women) were assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Schober test, lateral flexion and Straight Leg Raise Test. The intervention lasted one month and included balance cushion exercises performed individually 2-3 times per day for approximately 10 minutes. Participants attended weekly clinical sessions for manual therapy targeting lumbar and gluteal trigger points, and for supervision of exercise performance. Due to the absence of a control group, improvements cannot be solely attributed to balance cushion training, as manual therapy was also provided.

Results: Significant improvements were observed in all indicators. VAS scores decreased from 6.7 ± 1.08 to 0.4 ± 0.75 (p<0.001). Schober test values increased from 1.87 ± 0.23 cm to 3.04 ± 0.15 cm (p<0.001). Lateral flexion improved bilaterally (left: from 52.08 ± 1.07 cm to 48.81 ± 1.61 cm; right: from 51.79 ± 1.38 cm to 48.91 ± 1.28; p<0.001). Straight Leg Raise Test results increased from 48.45 ± 5.94 ⁰ to 76.25 ± 3.34⁰ (p<0.001).

Conclusions: A one-month program of balance cushion exercises, combined with weekly manual therapy, significantly reduced pain and improved lumbar mobility in patients with lumbar vertebral syndrome. These findings support the use of functional exercise approaches in conservative management of low back pain although controlled studies with larger samples are needed.