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Open Access 01-12-2022 | Exercise Therapy | Research

Does m-health-based exercise (guidance plus education) improve efficacy in patients with chronic low-back pain? A preliminary report on the intervention’s significance

Authors: Fuming Zheng, Shufeng Liu, Shanshan Zhang, Qiuhua Yu, Wai Leung Ambrose Lo, Tingni Li, Chu Huai Wang

Published in: Trials | Issue 1/2022

Abstract

Background

The utilization of mobile health (m-health) has rapidly expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic, and there is still a lack of relevant clinical data pertaining to chronic low-back pain (CLBP) management. This study was designed to compare the effectiveness of m-health-based exercise (via guidance plus education) versus exercise (via guidance) during CLBP management.

Methods

Participants (n = 40) were randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. The intervention group received m-health-based exercise (via guidance plus education), whereas the control group received m-health-based exercise (via guidance). The exercise prescription video and educational content were sent to participants by the application (app), Ding Talk. Repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to test the baseline’s intervention effects, 6-week follow-up, and 18-week follow-up. We selected function (Roland and Morris Disability Questionnaire) and pain intensity (current, mean, and most severe Numeric Rating Scale in the last 2 weeks) as the primary outcomes, changes of negative emotion (depression, anxious), and quality of life as the secondary outcomes.

Results

Time’s significant effect was found in pain, function, and health-related quality of life in both groups, but time did not show significant interaction effects. Participants were able to use m-based education with their anxiety and depression after treatment, but the relief only lasted until week 6. No differences were found on the aspect of mental health-related quality of life.

Conclusion

Preliminary findings suggest that m-health-based exercise (via guidance) may be a convenient and effective method to treat CLBP. However, additional health education didn't help more. More rigorous controlled trials are needed to improve the therapeutic effect in future studies.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trials Registry Number ChiCTR2000041459. Registered on December 26, 2020.

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Title: Does m-health-based exercise (guidance plus education) improve efficacy in patients with chronic low-back pain? A preliminary report on the intervention’s significance
Authors: Fuming Zheng
Shufeng Liu
Shanshan Zhang
Qiuhua Yu
Wai Leung Ambrose Lo
Tingni Li
Chu Huai Wang
Publication date: 01-12-2022
Publisher: BioMed Central
Keywords: Exercise Therapy
Exercise Therapy
Back Pain
Back Pain
Back Pain
Published in: Trials / Issue 1/2022
Electronic ISSN: 1745-6215
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-022-06116-z

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Does m-health-based exercise (guidance plus education) improve efficacy in patients with chronic low-back pain? A preliminary report on the intervention’s significance

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Trial registration

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Trial registration

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