Non-specific chronic low back pain and physical activity: A comparison of postural control and hip muscle isometric strength

Abstract

Most research on sedentary lifestyle has focused on pain and disability, while neuromuscular outcomes (postural control and strength) have received less attention. The objective of the study was to determine whether low level of physical activity is negatively associated with measures of lower body muscular strength and postural control in individuals with and without non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP). Twenty-four subjects with NSCLBP (28.8 ± 5.9 years) and 24 age, gender, and body mass index matched healthy controls participated in the study. Subjects were sub-classified into 4 subgroups based on their physical activity level: Non-active NSCLBP; Active NSCLBP; Non-active healthy control; and Active healthy control. Each subgroup consisted of 12 subjects. Peak force of hip muscles strength was assessed using a handheld dynamometer. Postural control was assessed using computerized posturography and the Y Balance Test. There was no significant group by physical activity interaction for strength and static and dynamic postural control, except for static control during left single leg stance with eyes closed (P = .029). However, there was a significant difference in strength and postural control by physical activity (P < .05). Postural control and peak force of hip muscles strength were significantly associated with physical activity (r ranged from 0.50 to 0.66, P < .001 and r ranged from 0.40 to 0.59, P < .05, respectively). Postural control and hip strength were independently related to physical activity behavior. A sedentary behavior may be an important risk factor for impaired postural control and hip muscles strength, and that physical fitness is vital to neuromuscular outcomes.

The Effect of Physical Activity and High Body Mass Index on Health-Related Quality of Life in Individuals with Metabolic Syndrome

“…A statistically significant association was also found in women for the mental component dimension, which was similar to our study. Other research suggested that there were benefits of PA to improve physical and mental state, increase physical function, reduce anxiety, depression and stress through various mechanisms, like the effect of endorphins, thermogenic hypothesis or the effect of the immune system through cytokines, among others [39,40].…”

Test–Retest Reliability of an iPhone® Inclinometer Application to Assess the Lumbar Joint Repositioning Error in Non-Specific Chronic Low Back Pain

“…A total of 50 participants (25 females and 25 males) were included in the study after verifying that they met the inclusion criteria. Inclusion criteria included: (a) being aged between 18 and 45 years [ 47 ], (b) experiencing NSCLBP for ≥3 months [ 1 , 48 ], and (c) speaking Spanish as their native language. The diagnosis of NSCLBP was made by a physician.…”

“…The exclusion criteria included [ 1 ]: (a) pregnancy, including six months postpartum; (b) a history of back or lower limb surgery; (c) signs of symptoms of neuropathic pain (e.g., a painful radiculopathy) [ 51 ]; (d) trauma to the back or lower extremities in the last three months; (e) metal spine implants; (f) neurological or vestibular disorders; (g) consumption of drugs with a potential effect on balance in the 24 h before the study; (h) a diagnosed psychiatric disorder or severe cognitive impairment.…”

“…Currently, numerous studies address non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP), however, the battery of tests and measuring instruments used for the evaluation of physical and psychological fitness is varied. NSCLBP is defined as persistent back and sacrum pain lasting more than 12 weeks; it occurs in 85% of cases for unknown reasons, is unrecognizable, and affects 12–33% of the adult population [ 1 ].…”

Relationship of trunk extensor endurance on dynamic postural control and functional performance in non-specific low back pain

“…Maintenance of static and dynamic postural control is crucial for functional activities [14] . Dynamic postural control is an important factor in performing many functional tasks.…”