Effectiveness of Core Stability Exercises in Preventing Recurrence of Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Prospective Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Lumbar disc herniation is a prevalent spinal condition leading to chronic pain and disability. Despite various interventions, recurrence rates remain significant. Core stability exercises have been proposed as a potential preventive strategy due to their role in enhancing spinal stability. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of core stability exercises in reducing pain, improving functional outcomes, and preventing recurrence of lumbar disc herniation over a two-year follow-up period. Methods: A prospective controlled trial with 90 participants was conducted. Participants were randomly allocated into two groups: core stability exercises (n=45) and conventional physiotherapy (n=45). Baseline assessments included Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and MRI imaging. Interventions were supervised, and adherence was monitored. Follow-up assessments were conducted at regular intervals, with recurrence rates analyzed using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 25.0, with p < 0.05 considered significant. Results: The intervention group showed a significant reduction in VAS scores (baseline: 6.2 ± 1.3; 24 months: 1.8 ± 0.9, p < 0.001) and ODI scores (baseline: 38.4 ± 5.6; 24 months: 15.2 ± 3.9, p < 0.001). Recurrence rates were lower in the intervention group (8.9% vs. 26.7%, p = 0.03), with a hazard ratio of 0.31 (95% CI: 0.11–0.89). Conclusion: Core stability exercises significantly reduced pain improved functional outcomes, and lowered recurrence rates of lumbar disc herniation. These findings highlight the value of incorporating core stability exercises into rehabilitation programs.