Affiliations: [a] Department of Health Professions, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA | [b] Department of Health Management and Informatics, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA | [c] Department of Physical Therapy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA | [d] Department of Physical Therapy, Long Island University, Brooklyn, NY, USA
Correspondence:
[*]
Corresponding author: William J. Hanney, Department of Health Professions, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA. E-mail:William.Hanney@ucf.edu
Abstract: BACKGROUND: An alternative approach to facilitate movement and
control through the trunk and pelvis is belly dancing. Investigations of
belly dancing mechanics indicate similar muscular activation patterns of
those known to influence chronic low back pain (cLBP). However, no
documented studies have examined its effectiveness as a treatment for cLBP.
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the
influence of a standardized belly dance program in women with cLBP.
METHODS: A single subject design was used to evaluate weekly
outcomes during a three-week baseline period, six-week belly dance program,
and again at a two-month follow-up. Outcome measures for pain, disability,
function, and fear-avoidance beliefs were utilized.
RESULTS: Two subjects completed the program. No significant
differences were noted during the baseline assessment period. At two months,
subject one demonstrated change scores of -1.12, -1%, and 2.2 for pain,
disability, and function respectively while subject two demonstrated change
scores of 5.4, 5%, and 1.1 for pain, disability, and function,
respectively. Subject one showed a clinically significant change score for
both fear avoidance of work and physical activity, with score changes of 4
and 3.3, respectively.
CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest a standardized belly
dance program may positively influence pain and function in women with
cLBP.
Keywords: Complementary and alternative medicine, lumbago, core stabilization, lumbopelvic
