Investigating the relationship between exercise training and intervertebral disc health

With an overarching goal of finding a non-invasive treatment for chronic low back pain, this thesis explored intervertebral disc health and the relationship with exercise. Some types of exercise benefit intervertebral disc health, while other types are detrimental. The available literature showed that running exercise was associated with better intervertebral disc health. This concept was then explored in a 12-week randomised control trial in individuals with chronic low back pain. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed some improvement in the intervertebral disc with not clear evidence of harm. Therefore, running appears safe for the intervertebral disc and individuals with low back pain.