The trials suggest that work place exercise is effective , braces and education are ineffective , and workplace modification plus education is of unknown value in preventing low back pain
A systematic review of r and omised controlled trials was undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of  workplace interventions  to prevent low back pain .
Primary Prevention of Back Symptoms and Absence from Work: A Prospective Randomized Study Among Hospital Employees
The personnel at a geriatric hospital were r and omized into two groups . One group was allowed to exercise during working hours to improve back muscle strength , endurance , and coordination . The other group did not participate in the exercise program and received no further advice or information . After 13 months , the training group had increased back muscle strength . One subject had been absent from work 28 days in the training group whereas 12 subjects had been absent 155 days from work because of low back pain in the control group ( P<0.004 ) . The back pain complaints and intensity of back pain in the training group also decreased in a statistically significant way . Every hour spent by the physiotherapist on the training group reduced the work absence among the participants by 1.3 days , result ing in a cost/benefit ratio greater than 10
The trials suggest that work place exercise is effective , braces and education are ineffective , and workplace modification plus education is of unknown value in preventing low back pain
A systematic review of r and omised controlled trials was undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of  workplace interventions  to prevent low back pain .