Hip and trunk variables in university students with and without recurrent low back pain

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Low back pain (LBP) is a leading cause of disability. Recurrent low back pain (rLBP) is two or more episodes of LBP in a 12-month period, each lasting more than 24 hours and separated by at least one pain-free month. Many studies have shown that hip and trunk variables have an influence on LBP. However, most of these are studies of participants with acute or chronic LBP rather than rLBP. PURPOSE: To determine the relationship of hip and trunk variables of university students with and without rLBP. METHODS: Twenty-six participants 18 to 35 years old with rLBP (n=10) and without rLBP (n=16) were recruited for this cross-sectional study. Bilateral hip range of motion (ROM) and trunk ROM were measured with a goniometer and measuring tape. Measurements included hip motions in all planes along with trunk flexion, extension, and lateral flexion. Hip extension, abduction, and external rotation strength and a single-leg bridge endurance test were measured. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences between the two groups were found for right and left hip flexion (p = 0.029 and 0.039, respectively), right hip adduction (p = 0.043), and right hip extension (p = 0.021). No significant difference was found between groups for strength, endurance, or other ROM measures. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study show statistically significant limitations in hip flexion ROM in the rLBP group compared to the control group. This may be clinically relevant when measuring and treating patients with rLBP. This study also suggests that hip strength and endurance may not play a major role in the treatment of rLBP.