Low-impact exercise program for patients with symptomatic lumbar spinal stenosis awaiting surgery: a controlled pilot study

Purpose: To explore the efficacy of a low-impact exercise programme for participants with degenerative spinal stenosis awaiting surgery, aiming to improve physical functioning without deterioration of symptoms. Material and methods: Forty participants with symptomatic and radiological degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis and self-reported walking limitations, participated in the study completed the last ten weeks before surgery. The participants were assigned to one of two groups: one exercise group where participants were committed to the exercise programme (n = 26) and a control group with no exercise programme (n = 14). The main outcome measures were 30 seconds Sit-to-Stand (repetitions) and Leg Pain (NRS, 0-10). Results: The exercise group reported 3.1 weekly bouts of exercise. At follow-up the Leg Pain improved slightly more in the exercise group compared with the control group (mean difference 1.2 (95% CI -2.2, -0.1), p=.029). No changes or group differences were observed for 30sSit-to-Stand or for the secondary outcome measures. Conclusion: The results suggest that a low-impact exercise programme is feasible by a group of patients with LSS and walking limitations. There were no attenuation of symptoms. However, the programme did not lead to improved physical capacity. The results suggest that exercise with higher intensity could be tested.