Maximal aerobic capacity is associated with lifting capacity, but not with self-reported functioning measures in patients with primary chronic low back pain: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

ObjectiveMaximal exercise testing is considered the gold standard to assess V̇O2max. However, maximal exercise testing was previously deemed unfeasible and unsafe in chronic low back pain (CLBP) patients. Consequently, most previous studies on aerobic capacity and functioning in patients with CLBP were performed with submaximal testing protocols. A recent study demonstrated the safety, feasibility and tolerance of maximal exercise testing in patients with CLBP. Therefore, the relation between aerobic capacity and functioning should be reevaluated. This cross-sectional study aims to determine the relationship between maximal aerobic capacity and four measures of functioning: lifting capacity, work ability, pain-related disability and physical functioning in patients with CLBP.MethodsThe maximal aerobic capacity of patients with CLBP was assessed with a maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test. Functioning was measured with a floor-to-waist lifting capacity test and three questionnaires: Work Ability Score, Pain Disability Index and Physical Functioning subscale of RAND-36. The associations between maximal aerobic capacity and each of the functioning measures were analysed with multiple linear regression analyses while controlling for potential confounders.ResultsData of n=74 patients with CLBP were analysed. After controlling for potential confounders, maximal aerobic capacity was moderately associated with lifting capacity (β=0.32, p=0.006), but not with any of the other functioning measures (β=−0.08 to 0.12, p>0.288).ConclusionA higher level of maximal aerobic capacity is moderately associated with a higher lifting capacity, but not with self-reported work ability, pain-related disability and physical functioning.

Construct validity and reliability of the 2-Minute Step Test (2MST) in individuals with low back pain

“…In our study, we found a significant correlation between the 2MST and the sport domain of BQ, these findings may indicate that sport is recommended to maintain good levels of cardiorespiratory fitness in people with chronic low back pain. Patients with chronic low back pain are vulnerable populations, as they have lower levels of strength [ 33 ], aerobic capacity [ 34 ], VO2max [ 35 ], and metabolic thresholds, negatively impacting the walking economy, quality of life, and practice of physical exercise [ 6 ]. The 2MST is a strategy to assess these patients without exposing them to the maximum physical exertion tests, respecting their biological individuality as well as their disability.…”