Regional spinal kinematics during static postures and functional tasks in people with non-specific chronic low back pain.

Background/Aims: Differences in regional lumbar angles in sitting have been observed between subgroups of patients with non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP) exhibiting motor control impairments (MCI). However, differences during standing posture and functional tasks, as well as differences in thoracic kinematics, have not been explored to date. This study aimed to compare regional spinal angles in healthy and MCI subgroups during static postures and functional tasks. Methods: An observational, cross-sectional study investigated spinal kinematics of two subgroups of patients with NSCLBP--flexion pattern (FP) (n=28) and active extension pattern (AEP) (n=23)--and healthy controls (n=28) using 3D motion analysis (Vicon) during usual sitting, usual standing, sit-to-stand and a bending task (to pick up a pen). Results: Significant differences (p<0.05) were observed between the AEP and (p≤0.005) and lower lumbar (LLx) (p≤0.033) during all postures and tasks, with the exception of lower thoracic (LTx) angle during standing (p=0.058). Significant differences in total thoracic (TotTx) between AEP and FP were evident during usual sitting and sit-to-stand (p≤0.038). Significant differences were also observed between FP and control groups in the ULx and LTx spine, with the exception of ULx during sit-to-stand (p=0.096) and standing (p=0.058). No differences in TotTx, UTx or LLx, or between the AEP and control group, were observed in any posture or task. Conclusions: Observing subdivided regional spinal angles is key to identifying MCI subgroup differences, with ULx and LTx able to discriminate between FP and AEP, and FP and healthy controls during static postures and functional tasks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]