Relation of Trunk Extensor Muscle Endurance and Dynamic Postural Stability Among Nurses

Abstract

Control of posture is a task that requires the summation of auditory, visual and somatosensory signals. Trunk plays a vital role in the loading of energy and connecting the lower and upper extremities. Nurses spent a lot of time on activities involving frequent bending and turning movements. These postures and movements when used for prolonged duration place static and dynamic stability demands and may increase the demands on the trunk muscle groups resulting in high risk for developing low back pain. The aim of this study was to find a relation between trunk extensor muscle endurance and dynamic postural stability among Nurses. 103 female and male nurses were recruited for the study based on the selection criteria. The nurses were evaluated for the trunk endurance using Bearing-Sorenson’s test. The Y-balance test and berg balance scale was used to know the dynamic postural stability. The mean trunk extensor muscle endurance was found to be 83.26 ± 17.72 seconds. The ‘Y’ balance was 88.24 ± 11.73 on the right side and 89.16 ± 12.09 on the left side. The mean Berg balance score was 30.13 ± 3.59. There was no significant relationship was noted between trunk muscle endurance and Y balance (p=.57). No significant association was observed for trunk muscle endurance with a Berg balance score (p= 0.727). We found no significant relationship existing between trunk extensor muscle endurance on dynamic postural stability among nurses. Trunk extensor muscle endurance may not be the major factor in maintaining dynamic postural stability. Keywords Posture, Muscles, Low Back Pain, Balance