6368c1c819ae404ca081ee4 20251204051319238 chitu:chitu chitkarauniversitypublications@chitkara.edu.in WEB-FORM Journal of Multidisciplinary Research in Healthcare JMRH 23938536 23938544 10.15415/jmrh https://jmrh.chitkara.edu.in/ 10 30 2025 10 30 2025 11 2 10.15415/jmrh.2025.112 https://jmrh.chitkara.edu.in/2025/vol-11-no-02/ Effectiveness of Backward Walking in Reducing Postural Low Back Pain: A Cross-Sectional Study Department of Physiotherapy, Techno India University, Kolkata, West Bengal, India. Kusum Agarwal Srijeeta Biswas https://orcid.org/0009-0009-3109-244X Department of Physiotherapy, Techno India University, Kolkata, West Bengal, India. Ravikant Ballav Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, The Neotia University, Diamond Harbour, West Bengal, India. Satyen Bhattacharya Burdwan Institute of Medical and Life Sciences, West Bengal, India. Background: Lower back pain (LBP) is a prevalent and common musculoskeletal issue that can affect both mobility and functional quality. Backward walking (retro-walking) has gained attention due to its ability to reduce pain and improve disability while maintaining strength, mobility, and balance in many other conditions. The aim of this study is to examine its therapeutic effectiveness in reducing the symptoms of pain related to postural low back pain and also improving functional abilities in adults aged 30–50 years. Purpose: The purpose of the study is to evaluate whether backward walking (retro-walking) can effectively reduce pain and improve daily functional activities in adults (aged 30–50 years) who are suffering from postural low back pain (LBP). Methods: Out of 69 individuals chosen on the basis of inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 34 participants with postural LBP were recruited and divided into Group A (control) and Group B (experimental). The six-week intervention for Group B included backward walking sessions three times per week, starting at 10 minutes per session and progressing to 30 minutes on a flat surface. Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) scores were recorded pre- and post-intervention. SPSS software was used for statistical analysis, with paired and unpaired t-tests assessing differences within and between groups. Results: Statistical evaluation revealed a significant reduction in pain scores post-intervention (p<0.001) and an improvement in functional abilities in both groups. However, Group B experienced a greater decline in NPRS scores compared to Group A. Conclusion: Backward walking is an effective, non-invasive, and cost-efficient intervention for individuals with postural LBP. The study had a relatively small sample size, which limits its generalization. Also, the study was done for a shorter period; therefore, long-term effects remain unpredictable. 10 30 2025 10 30 2025 54 60 10.15415/jmrh.2025.112007 https://jmrh.chitkara.edu.in/2025/effectiveness-of-backward-walking-in-reducing-postural-low-back-pain-a-cross-sectional-study/