Differences in three-dimensional spinal kinematics between individuals with chronic non-specific low back pain and age- and sex-matched asymptomatic controls

Abstract

The aim of this study to investigate three-dimensional spinal kinematics among individuals with chronic non-specific low back pain (LBP) during range of motion (ROM) and functional tests, comparing them with those in age- and sex-matched healthy individuals. A total of 60 individuals (30 participants with and 30 without LBP), aged between 18 and 50 years participated in the study. The full-body Xsens system was employed to record the three-dimensional movements during ROM tests (flexion-extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation) and functional activities (single-leg standing, Hurdle step, squat, and picking up a box tests). Statistically significant between-group differences in some spine variables were observed during the ROM and functional tests (p < 0.05). Compared to healthy individuals, those with LBP demonstrated less movement in their spine [thorax flexion, difference between groups (Δ) = -15.9°, 95% CI -23.8° to -8.0°, p = 0.0001] and pelvis (pelvic flexion, Δ = -9.8°, 95% CI -17.1° to -2.5°, p = 0.009) during ROM tests, while these parameters moved more during functional tasks (lumbar flexion-extension, Δ = 12.5°, 95% CI 8.8° to 16.1°, p = 0.0001). These findings emphasize the significance of incorporating both ROM and functional tests in spinal assessments. Addressing impairments in these areas could be crucial for managing individuals with chronic LBP and tracking their progress.