The effects of BASE program on physical fitness and pain related factors in rural late-older women with CLBP: A pilot randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background

Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition among older adults, especially those engaged in agricultural work. Despite evidence supporting exercise interventions, structured programs for women aged ≥75 years with CLBP remain limited.

Objective

To evaluate the effects of the Body Awareness–Stability–Enhancement (BASE) program on physical fitness, pain-related outcomes, and exploratory biomarkers in rural late-older women with CLBP.

Methods

Twenty women aged ≥75 years with CLBP were randomized to either the BASE training group (n = 10) or a passive control group (n = 10). This pilot randomized controlled trial, originally conducted as part of a doctoral dissertation, used a small convenience sample. The 12-week BASE program comprised progressive stages emphasizing body awareness, core stability, and functional enhancement. Outcomes included body composition, physical fitness (strength, balance, mobility, and flexibility), pain and disability (VAS and ODI), and biomarkers (hs-CRP and VEGF).

Results

The BASE program improved skeletal muscle mass and appendicular skeletal muscle index (both p < .001), handgrip strength (p = .002, .012), mobility (timed up-and-go: p = .001; 4-meter walk: p = .001), and flexibility (sit-and-reach: p < .001). Pain (VAS, p = .007) and disability (ODI, p = .037) decreased significantly. hs-CRP declined (p = .024), while VEGF increased (p = .011).

Conclusion

The BASE program was associated with improved physical function and reduced pain in rural women aged ≥75 years with CLBP. These preliminary findings support the feasibility and potential value of a structured, multimodal exercise intervention and warrant confirmation in larger trials.

Trial registration

CRiS KCT0010632; registered on 13 June 2025 (retrospectively registered).