Comparative Effects of Revulsive Compresses and Pilates Mat Exercise on Pain Intensity, Functional Disability, and Quality of Life in Patients with Non-Specific Chronic Low Back Pain

Abstract

Background: Non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP) is a prevalent musculoskeletal disorder associated with substantial disability and diminished quality of life, necessitating effective conservative treatment strategies to mitigate its personal and societal burden. Objective: To compare the effects of revulsive compresses and Pilates mat exercise on pain intensity, functional disability, and quality of life in patients with NSCLBP. Methods: This randomized clinical trial included fourteen participants aged 18 to 50 years with NSCLBP persisting for more than twelve weeks, recruited at Rehab Max Hospital, Layyah. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either revulsive compresses or Pilates mat exercises three times weekly over eight weeks. Pain intensity, functional disability, and quality of life were assessed at baseline, fourth week, and eighth week using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Modified Oswestry Disability Index (MODI), and EQ-5D-5L questionnaire, respectively. Statistical analyses included repeated measures ANOVA for within-group comparisons and independent t-tests for between-group differences, with significance set at p ≤ 0.05. Results: Both interventions significantly reduced NPRS and MODI scores and improved EQ-5D-5L scores over time (p < 0.001). Pilates demonstrated superior outcomes compared to revulsive compresses at eight weeks, with significant between-group differences in NPRS (p = 0.031), MODI (p = 0.029), and EQ-5D-5L scores (p = 0.030). Conclusion: Pilates mat exercise is more effective than revulsive compresses in reducing pain, improving functional ability, and enhancing quality of life in patients with NSCLBP, supporting its integration into physiotherapeutic practice.