The Effect of Rehabilitation Exercises Accompanied by Electrical Stimulation on the Development of Range of Motion and the Strength of Abdominal and Back Muscles in Bodybuilding, Powerlifting, and Weightlifting Athletes with Lower Back Pain in Basrah Province

Abstract

  This research aims to identify the effect of a rehabilitation program that includes a set of exercises combined with electrical stimulation on improving the functional status of bodybuilders, strength athletes, and weightlifters suffering from lower back pain. The researchers used a single-group experimental approach, employing pre- and post-testing, as this method was suitable for the nature of the research sample. The sample consisted of eight athletes suffering from overexertion. Electrical stimulation was used for 10 minutes during the first two weeks, then increased to 15 minutes during the third and fourth weeks. The results showed a significant improvement in range of motion and strengthening of the back and abdominal muscles. Therefore, it is recommended that electrical stimulation be included in rehabilitation programs to improve muscle function and alleviate muscle pain, while taking into account the need to determine the appropriate stimulation levels for each individual patient.