A Proposed Study Using Psychophysiological Biomarkers to Evaluate the Effectiveness of Cat-Cow Yoga Exercise to Reduce Chronic Musculoskeletal Low Back Pain

Abstract

Background: Low Back Pain (LBP) is a painful condition of the musculoskeletal system that affects the quality of life and causes disabilities that can cease or limit daily life activities. Around 85% of the population has encountered LBP at least once in their lives. Due to sustained or improper postures, the incidence rate of LBP is reportedly high amongst healthcare providers worldwide. The treatments to manage LBP are generally some Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which only give short-term relief and are seemingly ineffective after a particular time, so higher doses are needed. This study aims to test the Cat-Cow yoga posture to manage LBP in longer terms. Methodology: It will be a uni-center randomized control trial, and the participants with musculoskeletal low back pain will be randomly allocated into two groups. Group 1 will receive the intervention, cat-cow yoga sessions, and Group 2 will get the general care guide. Altered levels of cortisol, substance P and beta-endorphins will be measured and compared at baseline and after completion of 12 weeks. Discussion: A practical and cost-friendly intervention that can help Back pain sufferers to reduce their pain. This study will determine the efficacy of a useful and cost-effective yoga technique to overcome the psychophysiological manifestations of musculoskeletal CLBP.