Evaluation of the relationship between history of lower back pain and asymmetrical trunk range of motion.

BACKGROUND

Low back pain (LBP) is a common complaint and preventive measures should be considered immediately. In addition, asymmetrical trunk motion, which occurs due to repetitive motion upon performing daily activities, may be one of the biomechanical factors to cause LBP.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the characteristics of asymmetrical trunk motion in women with a history of LBP.

METHODS

Thirty-four women were dichotomously categorized into either the LBP or non-LBP group. Trunk active range of motion (RoM) upon sitting and standing were measured via a three-dimensional motion analysis system. Each RoM and rotation and side-flexion asymmetries were calculated and an unpaired t-tests were used to identify differences between each group.

RESULTS

Trunk rotation asymmetry upon sitting and standing position in LBP group was significantly greater than that in non-LBP group. Furthermore, trunk rotation angle upon sitting in LBP group was significantly larger than that in non-LBP group.

CONCLUSIONS

The limited RoM and asymmetry of trunk rotation may be due to imposed repetitive mechanical stress on habitual excessive motion, including most asymmetrical movements. Our findings indicated that a small trunk rotation angle and asymmetrical trunk rotation may be useful parameters to predict LBP onset or other musculoskeletal conditions of the trunk.