Effectiveness of Various Non-Pharmacological Interventions for the Management of Non-Specific Chronic Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Main Article Content
Low back pain (LBP) is a major public health concern, with non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP) accounting for 90% of cases globally. NSCLBP significantly impacts productivity, mobility, and quality of life, imposing a substantial economic burden on society. Effective management strategies are crucial to address this widespread issue. This study systematically evaluates the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions for NSCLBP by reviewing randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to identify evidence-based approaches that could improve patient outcomes and inform clinical practice. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Cochrane Library, and ScienceDirect using specific keywords and MeSH terms: “non-pharmacological treatment,” “non-specific chronic low back pain,” “NSCLBP,” and “randomized controlled trials.” The search was limited to English-language articles published in the past 10 years. From 119 potential studies, 5 RCTs met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Eight non-pharmacological interventions were identified, but heterogeneity in study designs and treatments presented challenges in evaluating their individual effectiveness. Despite this, the review highlights the potential benefits of non-pharmacological treatments for NSCLBP. However, variations in methodologies and patient populations limit the generalizability of findings. The study emphasizes the need for standardized research protocols and consistent outcome measures in future studies to strengthen the evidence base. Implementing evidence-based non-pharmacological strategies could improve patient care, reduce dependency on pharmacological treatments, and lessen the economic burden on healthcare systems globally.
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