Abstract

Background: Core stability of trunk is a basic function of both the local and global muscles. But there is insufficient research based data to determine the cause or ascertain how low back pain might be related to any of the particular features of pregnancy especially the core muscle strength.

Objective: To study correlation between low back pain and core muscle strength amongst the pregnant females.

Materials and Methods: 148 primigravida females (mean age 21.36 ± 1.54) in their 2nd trimester with complaints of backache were given VAS and Roland Morris Questionnaire to fill in. The core strength was assessed using pressure biofeedback unit while performing ‘drawing in’ maneuver in supine crook lying.

Results: Study showed negative correlation between core muscle strength and intensity of low back pain [r = - 0.489, p < 0.05] and negative correlation between core muscle strength and disability related to low back pain [r = - 0.536, p < 0.05]

Conclusion: Core muscle strength is an important factor for modulation of pain as well as for controlling its other associated disabilities. Thus, this may support the importance of Ante-natal exercises which includes core strengthening, to alleviate back pain and disability related to it during pregnancy.

Key words: Low back pain, Core muscle strength, Pregnancy, Roland Morris disability questionnaire.