The effect of Pilates and home-based exercise on pain, disability, and quality of life in people with chronic non-specific neck pain : a randomised controlled trial

Abstract

This randomised controlled trial examined the effect of Equipment Pilates on pain, disability and quality of life resulting from chronic non-specific neck pain when applied in addition to home-based exercise, and determined the effect of credibility, expectancy and Yellow Flags on changes in outcomes. Twenty four participants (n=19 females, n= 5 males) recruited from the local community were randomly assigned to either 8 weeks of twice weekly Equipment Pilates and home-based exercise (Pilates+exercise) or a home- based exercise only (exercise-only) control. Pain and disability outcomes were recorded at weeks 4, 9 and 12. More of the Pilates+ exercise group (n=15) than the exercise only group (n=11) reached minimal clinically important difference for pain and disability. Quality of life improved in participants receiving both interventions. The result of this study suggests that Equipment Pilates plus home-based exercise is at least as effective as home- based exercise alone for chronic neck pain with regard to pain, disability and quality of life.