The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of stretching exercises of the Muscle and Joint Chains Godelieve Denys-Struyf (GDS) method in pain reduction, functional disability, increase global flexibility, and ability of the transversus abdominis muscle (TrA) contraction in individuals with nonspecific chronic low back pain. Fifty-five patients, from 18 to 60 years-old, participated in this study divided into two groups: the Stretching Group (n=30) underwent stretching exercises twice a week; the Control Group (n=25) was subjected only to evaluation. Pain was assessed by a visual analogue scale, functional disability by the Oswestry Questionnaire, global flexibility by third finger to the ground test and the ability of TrA contraction by a pressure biofeedback unit. Three evaluations were performed, starting after 8 and 16 weeks from the beginning. Significance level was α<0.05. Results show that the Stretching Group presented a decrease in pain, functional disability, and increased global flexibility (p<0.001) after 8 and 16 weeks (p<0.05). No improvement in the ability of TrA muscle contraction was demonstrated (p=0.13). The sequence of stretching exercises used in the GDS method is effective in reducing pain, functional disability, and improving global flexibility in patients with nonspecific chronic low back pain.
low back pain; muscle stretching exercises; physical therapy
