The effect of exercise therapy and ergonomic based on virtual space in computer users with low back pain

Introduction: Complaints with low back pain are one of the most common work-related injuries. Despite of using in-person therapies, no other methods based on the new technologies have been yet introduced. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the effect of two therapeutic exercise methods and ergonomic based on virtual space in computer users with Low back pain. Materials and Methods: In this semi-experimental study one hundred and fifty subjects with low back pain were participated. They were randomly divided into two control (the ergonomic) and experimental groups (combination of exercise and ergonomic therapy). Both groups received their treatment via a virtual space. The control group carried out ergonomic therapy and experimental group in addition to ergonomic intervention performed exercise therapy. The pain and disability levels were assessed using Nordick questionnaire before and after 3 months intervention. Chi-Square (χ2) was used to analyze the data. Results: The level of pain in the experimental group was reduced significantly than in control group in twelve month and 7 day evaluation (P < 0.05). Conclusion: It can be concluded that the combination of ergonomic and exercise therapies may reduce low back pain in computer users, so this training program could be recommended for these people to increase their abilities to seat for a long time behind the computer. Keywords: Low back pain, Exercise therapy, Ergonomic, Virtual space, Computer users