Efficacy of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization with Hip Strengthening Exercises on Pain, Range of Motion, and Kinesiophobia in Older Women with Chronic Low Back Pain

Document Type : Original Research

Authors
Zahra Mostaghimi 1
farzaneh saki 2
Maryam Nemati 1
1 Bu-Ali Sina University
2 Department of Exercise Rehabilitation, Faculty of Sports Science, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran.
10.48311/ijmpp.2025.110576.0
Abstract
Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) combined with hip strengthening exercises on pain, Range of Motion (ROM), and kinesiophobia in older women with chronic low back pain.
Method and Materials: Thirty-two older women with Chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP) participated and were randomly assigned to either the DNS or DNS with hip strengthening (DNSH) exercise groups. Both groups received training over eight weeks. Lumbar ROM was assessed using a tape measure, pain was measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and kinesiophobia was evaluated using the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia.
Findings: Significant intergroup differences were found in lumbar flexion and extension ROM, with greater improvements in the combined group (p < 0.05). No significant differences occurred in pain or kinesiophobia (p > 0.05). Both groups demonstrated significant improvements from pre- to post-measures in all aspects (p < 0.01).
Conclusion: Combining DNS with hip strengthening exercises effectively enhances lumbar ROM in older women with CLBP, offering a practical approach for improving mobility. While pain and kinesiophobia improvements were comparable across groups, this combined intervention can be prioritized for mobility-focused rehabilitation programs.

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International Journal of Musculoskeletal Pain Prevention
Volume 10, Issue 3
October 2025
Pages 1261-1271