The evaluation of deficits on dynamic postural sway control and its correlation with lumbar mobility in females with chronic low back pain

Introduction: Previous studies on chronic low back pain (CLBP) have addressed the biomechanical performance of trunk, including its mobility, and the static balance performance in the related population. However, the onset of low back pain is commonly linked with dynamic activities and therefore, the evaluation of the balance performance in dynamic condition would be clinically important. The objectives of this study were to assess the dynamic postural control and its relationship with trunk mobility in chronic low back pain patients.Materials and Methods: Twenty-four female patients with chronic low back pain and 24 able-bodied females, all between 25 to 45 years old, voluntarily participated in this study. Dynamic postural control, lumbar mobility and back pain were measured by a Biodex system, Schober technique and Quebec questionnaire, respectively. Multivariate analysis of variance (repeated measure) and Pearson correlation coefficient were used for data analysis (α < 0.05).Results:Chronic low back pain patients had greater dynamic postural sway (P < 0.0001). In chronic low back pain, the function of lower limbs and the trunk’s proprioception were affected. This deficit was better observed in closed eyes condition. Lumbar mobility was significantly reduced in chronic low back pain group, However there was no significant relationship between the lumbar mobility and the postural control (P < 0.001).Conclusion:Chronic low back pain is associated with greater postural sway and reduced lumbar mobility. These variables are independent and should be considered in both detection and treatment process separately. More studies are sequined to determine if these parameters are primary or secondary