Effects of Barbell Deadlifting on Manual Labor Workers with Low Back Pain
Date of Award
Fall 12-17-2023
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Exercise Science
Department
Kinesiology
Abstract
Abstract
Low back pain is a widespread problem that most people will experience in their life. It has been found that manual labor workers experience high rates of low back pain but lack time to dedicate to exercise training programs targeting low back pain. Therefore, there is a need to find the optimal exercise for reducing low back pain in a limited amount of time. This study is designed to help determine if a deadlift can reduce low back pain and improve function in manual labor employees with chronic low back pain. Twice a week, 40 participants will perform a 12-week deadlift program that is approximately 30 minutes long. The participants will fill out the Visual Analog Scale and Oswestry Low Back Disability Questionnaire at baseline and at Weeks 4, 8, and 12. By the end of the 12-week program, it is predicted that pain based of the Visual Analog Scale and disability based off of the Oswestry Disability Index will be decreased, indicating that the participants may be more resistant to injury due to being stronger in performing their jobs. The study will help determine guidelines for treating people with chronic low back pain and identify if deadlifts may be implemented as a rehabilitation treatment for low back pain.
Keywords: Back Pain, Deadlift, Rehabilitation