Efeito do Método Pilates e da cinesioterapia convencional na dor, flexibilidade e capacidade em trabalhadores com lombalgia relacionada ao trabalho: ensaio clínico controlado, randomizado e unicego

Abstract

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders, such as nonspecific low back pain (NSLBP), are the leading cause of occupational absences and functional disability worldwide, significantly affecting quality of life and the global economy. NSLBP, characterized by persistent pain and reduced physical activity, is often attributed to biomechanical and psychosocial factors in the workplace. Among therapeutic approaches, the Pilates Method (PM) has gained prominence for its focus on strength, flexibility, posture, and core stability, along with principles such as breathing control and body awareness. Although PM is effective for low back pain, there is limited evidence regarding its application to workers with occupational low back pain. This study aims to address this gap by comparing the effects of Pilates and conventional kinesiotherapy, contributing to the development of specific and effective protocols for this population. The objectives of this study were to evaluate whether the Pilates Method is more effective in reducing pain, improving flexibility, and reducing disability in workers with low back pain compared to conventional kinesiotherapy. (Article 1) To assess whether the Pilates Method would prove more effective in reducing pain and improving flexibility in workers with low back pain compared to conventional kinesiotherapy. (Article 2) To investigate and compare the effects of the Pilates Method and conventional kinesiotherapy on functional disability, physical health, and emotional health in workers with occupational low back pain. Data were presented as mean and standard deviation. The Shapiro-Wilk test was applied to assess data distribution. Paired t-tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to compare pre- and post-intervention results within groups. For intergroup comparisons before and after the intervention, an independent t-test was conducted. A significance level of 95% (p < 0.05) was adopted. The Pilates Method showed superior results in reducing low back pain, increasing flexibility, improving health self-assessment, and particularly in reducing functional disability in workers with work-related low back pain.