Background: Chronic discogenic low back pain is one of the most common conditions leading to functional limitation and reduced quality of life. Intervertebral disc degeneration is the main etiological factor associated with the development and persistence of pain. Conservative management of chronic discogenic low back pain includes physiotherapeutic modalities such as long-wave diathermy (TECAR), which, through capacitive and resistive modes, selectively affects different tissues and induces endogenous heat. Kinesiotherapy is a key component of rehabilitation, based on the active participation of the patient and aimed at reducing pain, muscle spasm, and improving motor function.
Aim: To evaluate the effect of combined capacitive–resistive diathermy and kinesiotherapy on pain and functional capacity in patients with chronic discogenic low back pain.
Materials and Methods: A prospective, controlled, single-blind clinical study was conducted, including 41 patients with chronic low back pain and imaging-confirmed degenerative changes in the lumbar spine. The participants were allocated to an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group underwent capacitive–resistive diathermy (TECAR) combined with kinesiotherapy, while the control group received a placebo procedure and the same kinesiotherapy program. The treatment effects were assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) at baseline (T0), immediately after completion of the therapeutic course, and at weeks 4 and 8 (T1–T3).
Results: At baseline (T0), a statistically significant between-group difference was observed in terms of pain assessed by VAS, with the experimental group demonstrating higher values, whereas ODI showed no significant between-group differences. Following the intervention, a statistically significant improvement in functional status (ODI) was observed in the experimental group, which was maintained throughout all follow-up periods. Regarding pain (VAS), a reduction over time was observed in both groups, without statistically significant between-group differences in the subsequent follow-up assessments.
Conclusion: The combined application of capacitive–resistive diathermy and kinesiotherapy leads to a significant improvement in functional capacity in patients with chronic discogenic low back pain. The method demonstrates a favorable therapeutic effect and represents an effective component in the conservative management of this condition.
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