A randomized crossover investigation of a back pain and disability prevention program: Possible mechanisms of change.

An educational program emphasizing symmetrical use of back muscles was studied at a health care facility that had high time lost injury rates due to back strains. 172 employees were involved, with half studying an educational program entitled "Back to Balance" and the remainder serving as controls. After 3 mo, the controls studied the program. All Ss completed the McGill Pain Questionnaire and received cervical and lumbar paraspinal dynamic EMG evaluations pre- and posttreatment and after 3 and 12 mo. Administrative indices (costs, incidence, and time lost injury rate) were obtained for the 3 yrs prestudy and for the 1 yr of the study. The 1-yr results showed decreased pain, retained knowledge that was generalized to the home, and significantly improved symmetry of both sets of muscles. Administrative data revealed a 72% decrease in the time lost injury rate, with reduced costs. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved)