Are core stability exercises an effective treatment for nonspecific chronic low back pain? A systematic review with meta-analysis

Background: Nonspecific chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a common condition associated with significant socioeconomic and healthcare costs. A proposed mechanism for the aetiology and persistence of nonspecific CLBP is dysfunction of the muscles responsible for stability and control of the spine. Core stability programs are designed to retrain optimal trunk muscle recruitment patterns, improve core muscle strength and endurance, and re-establish coordinated functional movements. Although these programs are widely used for rehabilitation, previous systematic reviews have not established the effectiveness of core stability exercise for the treatment of nonspecific CLBP compared with alternative interventions. The aim of this review was to investigate the effect of core stability exercise on pain and disability outcomes in patients with nonspecific CLBP.