Extending beyond the spine: Upper extremity exercise capacity and disability in non-specific chronic low back pain - A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND

Non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP) is associated with functional limitations that may affect areas beyond the lumbar region. While lower extremity functional performance has been extensively studied, upper extremity functional performance has received limited attention in this population.

PURPOSE: The primary aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between 6-minute pegboard and ring test (6PBRT) performance and disability in individuals with NSCLBP. Secondary aims were to examine its relationships with respiratory muscle strength, thoracoabdominal mobility, peripheral muscle strength, and kinesiophobia.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study involved 44 individuals with NSCLBP (mean age: 52.23 ± 8.48 years). Upper extremity exercise capacity was assessed using the 6PBRT. Respiratory muscle strength (maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressure), thoracoabdominal mobility, peripheral muscle strength (shoulder abductor and hand grip strength), disability level (Oswestry Disability Index, ODI) and kinesiophobia (Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia) were evaluated.

RESULTS

A moderate negative correlation was found between 6PBRT performance and ODI score (r = -0.432, p = .003; Holm-adjusted p = .027). After adjustment for age, sex, body mass index, and activity-related pain intensity, ODI score remained significantly associated with 6PBRT performance (β = -0.546, p < .001). No significant correlations were found between 6PBRT performance and the secondary outcomes (p > .05).

CONCLUSION

In this sample, poorer 6PBRT performance was associated with greater disability in individuals with NSCLBP. No significant relationships were found between 6PBRT performance and respiratory muscle strength, thoracoabdominal mobility, peripheral muscle strength, or kinesiophobia. The 6PBRT may provide additional information about upper extremity functional performance alongside commonly used lower extremity-based assessments in this population.