Thesis (Ph.D.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Basic Science

Background: Non-specific chronic low back pain is a common musculoskeletal problem, which is associated with a reduction in muscle performance and activation. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) has been used effectively in the rehabilitation of low back pain problems yet, there is still limited evidence regarding its mechanism of action. Purpose: to investigate the effect of ESWT on electromyographic activity of trunk muscles, pain, and functional disability in non-specific chronic low back pain. Methods: Thirty patients suffering from NSCLBP were divided randomly into two equal groups. Group "A" received ESWT and standard physical therapy treatment program in form of (progressive strengthening exercises for abdominal and back extensors muscles, and manual passive stretching exercises for hamstring, iliopsoas and back extensors) and Group "B" (control group) received a standard physical therapy treatment program only. Patients received two sessions per week for six weeks. The electrical activities of rectus abdominus, external oblique, lumbar erector spinae and lumbar multifidus muscles during maximum isometric contraction were assessed using Electromyographic device The electrical activities inside the selected muscles were represented as EMG amplitude (mv),Visual analog scale was used to assess pain level and Oswestery Disability index was used to assess functional disability

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