The value of core stability training in lumbar disc herniation on mean frequency

Objective To explore the effects of core stability training in lumbar disc herniation with the change of mean frequency (MNF) signals under different position on core muscles. Methods From January 2016 to June 2017, fifty-seven patients with lumbar disc herniation were randomly divided into the experimental group (core stability training plus regular physical therapy, n=29) and the control group (regular physical therapy only, n=28). The total course of treatment was 8 weeks. All patients were assessed three times (before, after 4 and 8 weeks) using Japanese orthopaedic association (JOA), oswestry disability index (ODI) and MNF of rectus abdominis, erector spinae and lumbar multifidus. Results Two therapies were both effective. The improvements on all above indexes at 4 weeks and 8 weeks after treatment were both statistically significant (all P<0.05) under different position in two groups. There was statistically significant (all P<0.05) in experimental group, but no statistically significant (all P>0.05) in control group between 4 weeks and 8 weeks. Between two groups, no significant difference (all P>0.05) was found at 4 weeks and significant difference (all P<0.05) was found at 8 weeks. Conclusion There are similar effects on patients with lumbar disc herniation between core stability training and regular physical therapy during a short time. While continuing core stability training can further improve the ability of core muscles and relieve pain and dysfunction. It should be better than the regular physical therapy and be worthy of clinical promotion.