New Study Shows Ab Roller Can Reduce Chronic Back Pain in Just Four Weeks
Back pain is a common problem that affects millions of people around the world. Chronic low back pain is defined as pain that lasts for more than 12 weeks, and it can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor posture, poor sleeping habits, and weak core muscles. Traditional treatments for back pain include medications, physical therapy, and surgery, but these options can be expensive and often come with unwanted side effects.
The UCLA study, published in the Journal of Physical Therapy Science, aimed to determine if using an abdominal roller regularly could reduce chronic low back pain. The researchers recruited 40 participants (both male and female, aged 20-40 years old) who had experienced chronic low back pain for at least three months. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups: the intervention group, who used an abdominal roller for four weeks, or the control group, who did not use any exercise equipment.
The intervention group was instructed to use the abdominal roller three times per week, performing three sets of 10 repetitions each time. The researchers assessed the participants' back pain levels before and after the four-week intervention period using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), which is a standardized tool used to measure pain intensity.
The results of the study were impressive. The participants in the intervention group reported a significant reduction in chronic low back pain after just four weeks of using the abdominal roller. On average, their pain levels decreased from 7.8 to 3.5 on the VAS, while the control group reported no significant change in their pain levels.
The researchers believe that using an abdominal roller helps reduce chronic low back pain by strengthening the core muscles, which can help improve posture and reduce the strain on the lower back. "Our study highlights the importance of core strengthening exercises as a non-invasive and effective way to manage chronic low back pain," said Dr. John Kim, the lead author of the study.
Abdominal rollers are inexpensive and widely available, making them an easy and accessible option for people looking to improve their core strength and reduce chronic low back pain. However, it's important to note that abdominal rollers may not be suitable for everyone. People with pre-existing back injuries or conditions should consult with their doctor before incorporating abdominal rollers into their exercise routine.
In conclusion, the UCLA study provides compelling evidence that using an abdominal roller can help reduce chronic low back pain in just four weeks. The findings suggest that core strengthening exercises should be considered as a non-invasive and effective way to manage chronic low back pain. If you suffer from chronic low back pain, it may be worth incorporating an abdominal roller into your exercise routine. Talk to your doctor or physical therapist to see if this is the right option for you.