Low Back Strength Research Articles

Relationship between lower back strength and carry distance in male recreational golfers

Relationship between lower back strength and carry distance in male recreational golfers

Effects of 12 Weeks Weight Training and Plyometric Training on Body Composition, Physical Fitness and Electronic Hogu Hitting Ability in Taekwondo Sparring Athletes

OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study is to identify the effects of differences in muscle function training of Taekwondo sparring athletes on body composition, basic physical fitness, isokinetic muscle function, and electronic hogu hitting ability, and to present basic data for a training program for Taekwondo sparring athletes.METHODS This study randomly sampled 25(M: 20, F: 5) Taekwondo sparring athletes. The sampled subjects were divided into a weight training group (n=8), a plyometric training(plyometric) group (n=8), and a control group (n=9) and trained for 60 minutes, 5 times a week, for 12 weeks. Body composition, basic physical fitness, isokinetic muscle function, and electronic hogu hitting ability were evaluated before and after training. Statistical tests of RM Two-way ANOVA were conducted to verify the interaction between groups and times, main effects of times, and main effects between groups according to 12 weeks of training. Post-hoc was conducted using paired-T test(times) and One-way ANOVA test(groups).RESULTS Taekwondo sparring athletes showed positive changes in body composition(weight, BMI, Lean body mass, % body fat, WHR), basic physical fitness(muscle endurance, flexibility), isokinetic muscle function(knee endurance, low back strength), and electronic hogu hitting ability(round house kick, Turning back kick, number of hit) after participating in weight training for 12 weeks (All <i>p</i><.05). Additionally, positive changes were observed in flexibility and electronic hogu hitting ability(Turning back kick) after participating in plyometric training for 12 weeks (All <i>p</i><.05).CONCLUSIONS Weight training for 12 weeks in Taekwondo sparring athletes results in positive changes in body composition, increased flexibility and muscular endurance, increases in knee isokinetic muscular endurance and low back isokinetic strength, and improvement in overall electronic hogu hitting ability. Plyometrics for 12 weeks result in increased flexibility and increased electronic hogu hitting ability for back kick. Weight training shows greater improvement in strength and kick endurance than plyometrics.

The correlation between low back pain and strength training in elite athletes: a literature review

This study aims to analyze the correlation between LBP and elite athletes who practice sports where strength training intervenes via weightlifting. To analyse the correlation between low back pain and athletes who practice sports where strength training programs, a narrative review was conducted by two independent author through MEDLINE database search. Inclued study’s methodology quality has been evaluated using NIH quality assessment tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies. Out of 830 retrieved articles, after titles, abstracts and full text assessment, four studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the present narrative review. The NIH total score ranged from 10 to 12 points. Demographic and sport-specific factors can influence the prevalence of LBP. Our findings highlight the importance of developing future research to provide prevention programs to reduce the incidence of LBP, taking into account the demographics of athletes and the unique nature of their sport activity. Keywords: Low back pain, weight lifting, strength sport, strength training, rehabilitation, muscle injuries, correlation.

Σύγχρονη φυσιοθεραπευτική αντιμετώπιση της διάστασης του ορθού κοιλιακού σε γυναίκες μετά την εγκυμοσύνη

Diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) is a connective tissue impairment commonly seen in pregnant and postpartum women, causing significant physical and cosmetic concerns. Possible connections of DRA to several musculoskeletal dysfunctions, such as pelvic floor dysfunctions, pregnancy-related low back pain and impaired abdominal muscle strength have been postulated; thus, making DRA management important for the functionality and the quality of life of women following pregnancy. According to international guidelines, conservative management of DRA is the gold standard approach nowadays. However, there is no consensus in literature, about the most effective type of rehabilitation exercises for DRA. The aim of this review is to report current evidence on DRA rehabilitation as well as make suggestions for future clinical research.

Influence of Global Spine Sagittal Balance and Spinal Degenerative Changes on Locomotive Syndrome Risk in a Middle-Age and Elderly Community-Living Population.

Purpose The aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of each locomotive syndrome (LS) risk stage, including global spine sagittal alignment, spinal degenerative changes evident on plain radiographs, low back pain (LBP), muscle strength, and physical ability in middle-aged and elderly people in a health checkup. Methods This study included 211 healthy Japanese volunteers (89 men and 122 women; mean age, 64.0 years) who underwent assessment with both radiographs and Spinal Mouse. Spinal sagittal parameters included thoracic kyphosis angle (TKA), lumbar lordosis angle (LLA), sagittal vertical axis, and spinal inclination angle (SIA). Lumbar disc height (LDH) and lumbar osteophyte formation (LOF) at each level were evaluated as the spinal degenerative changes. The LS assessment comprised three tests: stand-up test, two-step test, and 25-question Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale (GLFS-25). The subjects were divided into three groups (no risk, stage 1 LS, or stage 2 LS) according to LS risk test criteria. The prevalence of LBP was investigated with a visual analogue scale (VAS), and physical performances were also compared among the groups. Results Of the participants, 122 had no risk of LS, 56 had stage 1 LS risk, and 29 had stage 2 LS risk. With increasing LS risk stage, the prevalence of and VAS score for LBP increased significantly, and back muscle strength and physical abilities decreased significantly. The TKA did not differ among the three groups. The LLA decreased gradually with LS risk stage (P = 0.0001). At each level except L1–L2 and L5–S1, LDH decreased gradually with LS risk stage. The prevalence of LOF increased significantly with increasing LS risk stage. The SIA increased significantly with LS risk stage (P = 0.0167). Conclusions Participants with LS had higher prevalence of spinal degeneration, small LLA, and global spinal imbalance by anterior spinal inclination.

Effects Of Self Natural Posture Exercise On Pain Perception, Functional Movement, And Physical Fitness In Women With Chronic Pain

PURPOSE: While Self Natural Posture Exercise, SNPE, widely practiced in Korea is claimed to be effective, it has not been systematically demonstrated. This study examined whether SNPE is effective in pain, functional movement, and fitness improvement. METHODS: Twenty four women with chronic pain at least last 3 month prior to study participated (27.5±5.8 yrs, 23.0±3.8 kg/m2) and were divided into two groups; SNPE group (EG; n=12) and non-exercise group (NG; n=12). Subjects in EG participated in 12 weeks of exercise program consisted of 60 min per session, twice a week, while those in NG did not. Those in EG were tested before and after the program, and those in NG were tested twice in the same time interval. The pain perception was evaluated by Short-Form Mcgill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ). Movement tests were performed using Functional Movement Screen (FMS). Physical fitness was evaluated by grip and lower back strength, sit-and-reach, and back extension. RESULTS: Pain perception in EG was decreased (pre; 9.5±7.2 vs. post; 3.5±2.8), and group difference was noticed (p<0.01). Deep squat in EG increased (1.3±0.5 vs. 1.9±0.5, p<0.005). Hurdle step in EG increased (1.0±0.0 vs. 1.6±0.4, p<0.005), and group difference was noticed (p<0.05). Inline lunge both in EG (1.4±0.6 vs. 2.6±0.4, p<0.001) and in NG (1.5±0.5 vs. 2.2±0.7, p<0.001) increased. Shoulder mobility in EG increased (1.9±0.7 vs. 2.9±0.2, p<0.001), and group difference was found (p<0.05). Active straight leg raise in NG decreased (2.7±0.4 vs. 2.1±0.7, p<=0.05), but not in EG (2.7±0.4 vs. 3.0±0.0). Push up in EG increased (1.0±0.2 vs. 1.6±0.4, p<0.005). Rotary stability both in EG and NG did not show pre and post trial differences, but group differences were noticed (p<0.05). FMS total score both in EG (11.4±1.5 vs. 15.4±1.7, p<0.001) and in NG (12.1±1.7 vs. 13.2±2.0, p<0.05) increased, and group differences were noticed (p<0.05). Strength parameters were not changed. Sit-and-reach in EG (19.7±6.4 vs. 22.7±6.0, p<0.01) and back extension in EG (53.4±8.4 vs. 58.5±7.8, p<0.05) increased, and group differences in both were noticed (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: It is demonstrated that SNPE is valuable exercise modality to release pain perception, to improve functional movement, and to enhance flexibility in women experiencing chronic pain.

Kinesiophobia and functionality perception in postmenopausal women with chronic low back pain

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Low back pain is the main cause of global disability and is prevalent in women, tending to increase after menopause. The present study aimed to analyze the correlation between body mass index, muscle strength, kinesiophobia, estradiol, functional disability, and low back pain perception in postmenopausal women with chronic low back pain. METHODS: Twenty-two postmenopausal women with chronic low back pain were evaluated. Abdominal and lower back strength were assessed using isometric tests. Basal serum estradiol levels were analyzed using the chemiluminescence method. Kinesiophobia, low back pain perception, and low back functional disability were determined using the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia, the visual analog scale, and the Roland Morris Questionnaire, respectively. RESULTS: The Spearman correlation test showed correlations between the levels of kinesiophobia and the value of body mass (rho= -0.513; p=0.015) and the levels of kinesiophobia and the values of body mass index (rho= -0.576; p=0.005). There was correlation between the levels of kinesiophobia and perception of lumbar functional disability (rho= 0.434; p=0.043). No significant correlations were found between the variables of muscle strength, estradiol, and low back pain perception. CONCLUSION: Postmenopausal women with low back pain who have higher body mass and body mass index values tend to present lower levels of kinesiophobia. There is a direct relationship between the fear of moving or maintaining a specific position and the perception of the functionality and safety of the lumbar spine.

Psychological and physical factors related to disability in chronic low back pain.

Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a public health problem that causes high levels of disability. Psychological and physical factors could play a critical role in the disability perception of patients. The objective was to identify the psychological and physical factors associated with CLBP disability in patients and assess differences between asymptomatic subjects and CLBP patients through physical tests and psychological self-reports. A cross-sectional study was performed. Total sample of 80 participants were classified into two groups: patients with CLBP (n= 49) and asymptomatic subjects (i.e. the control group) (n= 31). The physical tests included lower back range of motion (LBROM), postural stability, lower back strength (LBS), and lumbopelvic motor control tests. The psychological self-reports included low back disability (Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire), self-efficacy, pain catastrophizing, and pain-related fear. Self-efficacy and LBS displayed moderate negative correlations withdisability in patients with CLBP (R=-0.47 and -0.40, respectively). Disability was predicted by self-efficacy and LBROM (β=-0.45 and -033 respectively, p< 0.01), explaining 30% of the variance in these patients. The comparative analysis showed statistically significant differences between groups in the physical/psychological variables (p< 0.01); however, the effect-sizes were small for all these variables. The results of this study highlight the relevance of psychological and physical factors in CLBP patient disability. Evaluation and treatment in CLBP patients should take these factors into account.

Comparison of Isolated Lumbar Extension Strength in Competitive and Noncompetitive Powerlifters, and Recreationally Trained Men.

Androulakis-Korakakis, P, Gentil, P, Fisher, JP, and Steele, J. Comparison of isolated lumbar extension strength in competitive and noncompetitive powerlifters, and recreationally trained men. J Strength Cond Res 35(3): 652-658, 2021-Low-back strength has been shown to significantly impact performance in a plethora of sports. Aside from its effect on sport performance, low-back strength is strongly associated with low-back pain. A sport that heavily involves the lower-back musculature is powerlifting. This study looked to compare isolated lumbar extension (ILEX) strength in competitive and noncompetitive powerlifters, and recreationally trained men. Thirteen competitive powerlifters (CPL group; 31.9 ± 7.6 years; 173.4 ± 5.5 cm; 91.75 ± 18.7 kg), 10 noncompetitive powerlifters (NCPL group; 24 ± 3.5 years; 179 ± 4.8 cm; 92.39 ± 15.73 kg), and 36 recreationally trained men (RECT group; 24.9 ± 6.5 years; 178.5 ± 5.2 cm; 81.6 ± 10.0 kg) were tested for ILEX. Isolated lumbar extension strength was measured at every 12° throughout subject's full range of motion (ROM) and expressed as the following: "strength index (SI)" calculated as the area under a torque curve from multiple angle testing, average torque produced across each joint angle (AVG), and maximum torque produced at a single angle (MAX). Deadlift and squat strength were measured using 1 repetition maximum for the competitive and noncompetitive powerlifters. The following powerlifting characteristics were recorded for the competitive and noncompetitive powerlifters: primary deadlift stance, primary squat bar position, use of belt, use of performance-enhancing drugs, and use of exercises to target the lower-back musculature. Significant between-group effects were found for subject characteristics (age, stature, body mass, and ROM). However, analysis of covariance with subject characteristics as covariates found no significant between-group effects for SI (p = 0.824), AVG (p = 0.757), or MAX (p = 0.572). In conclusion, this study suggests that powerlifting training likely has little impact on conditioning of the lumbar extensors.

Low-dose, non-supervised, health insurance initiated exercise for the treatment and prevention of chronic low back pain in employees. Results from a randomized controlled trial.

ObjectiveBack pain is a major problem requiring pragmatic interventions, low in costs for health care providers and feasible for individuals to perform. Our objective was to test the effectiveness of a low-dose 5-month exercise intervention with small personnel investment on low back strength and self-perceived pain.MethodsTwo hundred twenty-six employees (age: 42.7±10.2 years) from three mid-size companies were randomized to 5-month non-supervised training at home (3 times/week for 20 minutes) or wait-list-control. Health insurance professionals instructed the participants on trunk exercises at the start and then supervised participants once a month.ResultsMuscle strength for back extension increased after the 5-month intervention with a significant between-group difference (mean 27.4 Newton [95%CI 2.2; 60.3]) favoring the exercise group (p = 0.035). Low back pain was reduced more in subjects after exercise than control (mean difference –0.74 cm [95%CI –1.17; –0.27], p = 0.002). No between-group differences were observed for back pain related disability and work ability. After stratified analysis only subjects with preexisting chronic low back pain showed a between-group difference (exercise versus controls) after the intervention in their strength for back extension (mean 55.7 Newton [95%CI 2.8; 108.5], p = 0.039), self-perceived pain (mean –1.42 cm [95%CI –2.32; –0.51], p = 0.003) and work ability (mean 2.1 points [95%CI 0.2; 4.0], p = 0.032). Significant between-group differences were not observed in subjects without low back pain: strength for back extension (mean 23.4 Newton [95%CI –11.2; 58.1], p = 0.184), self-perceived pain (mean –0.48 cm [95%CI –0.99; 0.04], p = 0.067) and work ability (mean –0.1 points [95%CI –0.9; 0.9], p = 0.999). An interaction between low back pain subgroups and the study intervention (exercise versus control) was exclusively observed for the work ability index (p = 0.016).ConclusionIn middle-aged employees a low-dose, non-supervised exercise program implemented over 20 weeks improved trunk muscle strength and low back pain, and in those with preexisting chronic low back pain improved work ability.

Influence of Manual Labor at Work on Muscular Fitness and Its Relationship With Work Performance.

The present study examined the influence of workplace manual labor on measures of muscular fitness, with a secondary aim to investigate the relationship between muscular fitness and work performance in blue-collar (BC) workers. Leg extension isokinetic strength at slow and fast velocities, hamstring and hip-flexor flexibility, and low back muscular endurance were examined in young and older BC workers and white-collar (WC) controls, while work performance was examined in the BC cohort. There were no differences in muscular fitness variables between BC and WC groups; however, the older men had lower low back muscular endurance (-43.0%) and strength at slow (-9.4%) and fast (-12.7%) velocities. Work performance was associated with strength at fast velocities (r = 0.633) in the older BC workers. Leg strength may influence work performance, with higher velocities becoming more important in older workers.

A Comparison Analysis of Physical Characteristics, Fitness between Korea Top Ranked Sports Climber and High Altitude Mountaineer

PURPOSE Physical characteristics and fitness of the top ranked sports climber (SC; n=6) and high altitude mountaineer (Mt; n=6) were examined and compared. METHODS Physical characteristics included isokinetic strength (by Cybex at 60°/sec and 180°/sec), cardiorespiratory endurance (by maximal oxygen uptake and shuttle-run), muscular strength (by grip and lower back strength), muscular endurance (by Chin-up, Push-up, and Sit-up), and flexibility (by Sit-and-reach and Leg-separate angle). RESULTS SC showed a tendency of lower body weight (59 vs. 70 kg) and body fat contents (14 vs. 19%fat) than Mt. Maximal oxygen uptake of both groups was ranged 52-54 mL·kg-1·min-1. No group differences were noticed in maximal oxygen uptake and 20 m shuttle-run. Isokinetic strength, muscular strength, and flexibility were not different between groups. Among muscular endurance, Chip-up was higher in SC (29) than Mt (15). Based on the results, differences in some physical fitness and upper arm muscualr endurance between SC and Mt were noticed. CONCLUSIONS A successful climbing performance in SC and Mt appears to be related to physical characteristics and fitness of the climbers as well as many other factors such as conditioning readiness, natural environment and the climbing course, and strategies for climbing. 색인어: ì‹ ì²´ìš”ì†Œ, ì²´ë ¥ìš”ì†Œ, ì‹¬íì§€êµ¬ë ¥, ìŠ¤í¬ì¸ í´ë¼ì´ë¨¸, ê³ ì‚°ë“±ë°˜ì¸ Keywords: Physical characteristics factor, Fitness factor, Cardiorespiratory endurance, Sport cilmber, High altitude mountaineer

Effects of complex rehabilitation training on low back strength in chronic low back pain

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of complex rehabilitation training on chronic low back pain. [Subjects and Methods] Complex rehabilitation training for lumbar isometric muscle strength was conducted for 12 weeks for males (n=10) and females (n=10) with chronic low back pain, who were aged in their 30s. [Results] Isometric strength of lumbar extension was increased post-test, and significant differences were found between males and females, at MedX angle of 0, 48, and 60. [Conclusion] This study showed that complex rehabilitation training had a beneficial effect on the muscle strength of lumbar extension in patients with chronic low back pain.

Abstract B29: Differences in physical fitness, disability, and health-related quality of life between physical active and sedentary Hispanic breast cancer survivors

Abstract Background: Breast cancer remains the leading cause of cancer mortality among Latina women in the US. Physical activity (PA) and exercise have been shown to reduce morbidity and mortality from cardiometabolic diseases and cancer while improving individual fitness; disability and health related quality of life (HRQoL). However, Latinas, particularly those who speak only Spanish, have not been included in studies in sufficient numbers to identify factors to promote their participation in cancer prevention interventions. Purpose: To compare physical fitness, disability, and HRQoL between physically active and sedentary Hispanic breast cancer survivors. Methods: A total of 94 women (Age: 55.4 ± 9.9; BMI: 29.87 ± 5.62; ) from the Puerto Rico Comprehensive Cancer Center and MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX participating in Project VIVA! were recruited for this study. The VIVA! Program is a 16-week exercise intervention emphasizing in the minimum guidelines from The American College of Sports Medicine targeting aerobic endurance, muscular strength, balance, and muscle endurance. Participants visited the clinic for fitness testing and assessment of physical activity (PA), disability, and HRQoL through a battery of self-administered questionnaires previous to starting the intervention. Physical activity was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) in the preferred language of the participant; English or Spanish. The physical fitness assessment included: anthropometrics (BMI &amp; waist to hip ratio) measures, adiposity (% body fat) by skinfolds measurement, six-minute walk test (6MWT), lumbar and isquiotibial flexibility by sit-and-reach, grip strength by hand dynamometry, lower extremity endurance testing by sit-to-stand in 30 seconds, upper extremity, low back, and leg strength by Jackson strength testing protocol, shoulder range of motion (ROM) with inclinometer, and balance testing by a functional reach test. Upper and lower extremity function, joint motion and disability were assessed by The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Score (QuickDASH) and The Western Ontario McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), respectively. HRQoL was measured by the short version of the QOL (SF-36) questionnaire. For physical activity analyses, sample was divided into two groups based on results from the IPAQ; those with less than 150 min/wk (n = 58) and those exceeding 150 min/wk (n = 36). For analyses of sedentary time, sample was also divided into two groups based on the IPAQ; those spending less than 180 min/day in sitting (n = 46) and those spending greater than 180 mins/day sitting (n = 45). Groups were compared for all variables using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: ANOVA for physical activity revealed that those participants engaging in more than 150 min/wk of PA have better 6MWT (p = 0.04) and 30-second sit-to-stand ( p = 0.027) results demonstrating greater cardiorespiratory fitness and muscular endurance, respectively. Those participants spending less than 180 mins/day sitting exhibited better mental component scores in the SF-36 than those spending more time sitting (p = 0.012). Conclusion: It appears that meeting or exceeding the minimum recommended amount of PA and decreasing time spent in sedentary activities have positive physical fitness and HRQoL outcomes in Hispanic women breast cancer survivors. Even though the relationship between PA and sedentary behaviors with measures of physical fitness, disability, and HRQoL are difficult to establish, it is sound for clinicians to start considering PA as a preventive and rehabilitative strategy to improve breast cancer survivors HRQoL. Funding Sources: This project was partially supported by the Center for Energy Balance in Cancer Prevention and Survivorship, Duncan Family Institute, and by the following NIH awards: U54 CA 96297; P30 CA016672; R25T CA057730; and K01 CA 134550. Citation Format: Alexis Ortiz, Maribel Tirado-Gomez, Daniel C. Hughes, Velda Gonzalez, Karen Basen-Engquist. Differences in physical fitness, disability, and health-related quality of life between physical active and sedentary Hispanic breast cancer survivors. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Seventh AACR Conference on The Science of Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; Nov 9-12, 2014; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2015;24(10 Suppl):Abstract nr B29.

Synergistic effect of a rehabilitation program and treadmill exercise on pain and dysfunction in patients with chronic low back pain.

[Purpose] The present study examined the influence of treadmill exercise added to a low back pain rehabilitation program on low back extensor strength, pain, and dysfunction in chronic low back pain patients. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty men aged 22–36 years with chronic low back pain were randomly divided into experimental and control groups of 10 patients each. Both groups underwent a low back pain rehabilitation program lasting 30 min each, thrice/week for 8 weeks. The experimental group was prescribed an additional 30 min of treadmill exercise without a slope at a speed of 3.0–3.5 km/h, at which patients could walk comfortably. Low back extensor strength was tested using the Medx lumbar extension machine, pain level was tested, using the visual analog scale, and dysfunction was tested, using the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire. [Results] Changes in low back extensor strength by angle showed significant interaction effects between measurement time and group at 12°, 24°, and 36°. The results of the visual analog scale and Oswestry Questionnaire showed a decreasing trend after the experiment in both groups. However, there was no interaction effect of the additional treadmill exercise in the experimental group. [Conclusion] The combination of a low back pain rehabilitation program and treadmill exercise has a synergistic effect, to some extent, on the improvement of low back extensor strength and should be considered for treatment and rehabilitation of low back pain patients.

Spinal manipulation and exercise for low back pain in adolescents: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

BackgroundLow back pain is among the most common and costly chronic health care conditions. Recent research has highlighted the common occurrence of non-specific low back pain in adolescents, with prevalence estimates similar to adults. While multiple clinical trials have examined the effectiveness of commonly used therapies for the management of low back pain in adults, few trials have addressed the condition in adolescents. The purpose of this paper is to describe the methodology of a randomized clinical trial examining the effectiveness of exercise with and without spinal manipulative therapy for chronic or recurrent low back pain in adolescents.Methods/designThis study is a randomized controlled trial comparing twelve weeks of exercise therapy combined with spinal manipulation to exercise therapy alone. Beginning in March 2010, a total of 184 participants, ages 12 to 18, with chronic or recurrent low back pain are enrolled across two sites. The primary outcome is self-reported low back pain intensity. Other outcomes include disability, quality of life, improvement, satisfaction, activity level, low back strength, endurance, and motion. Qualitative interviews are conducted to evaluate participants’ perceptions of treatment.DiscussionThis is the first randomized clinical trial assessing the effectiveness of combining spinal manipulative therapy with exercise for adolescents with low back pain. The results of this study will provide important evidence on the role of these conservative treatments for the management of low back pain in adolescents.Trial registration(ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01096628).

Correlation of Low Back Pain with Core Muscle Strength in Primigravida Indian Females

Background: Core stability of trunk is a basic function of both the local and global muscles. But there is insufficient research based data to determine the cause or ascertain how low back pain might be related to any of the particular features of pregnancy especially the core muscle strength. Objective: To study correlation between low back pain and core muscle strength amongst the pregnant females. Materials and Methods: 148 primigravida females (mean age 21.36 ± 1.54) in their 2nd trimester with complaints of backache were given VAS and Roland Morris Questionnaire to fill in. The core strength was assessed using pressure biofeedback unit while performing ‘drawing in’ maneuver in supine crook lying. Results: Study showed negative correlation between core muscle strength and intensity of low back pain [r = - 0.489, p < 0.05] and negative correlation between core muscle strength and disability related to low back pain [r = - 0.536, p < 0.05] Conclusion: Core muscle strength is an important factor for modulation of pain as well as for controlling its other associated disabilities. Thus, this may support the importance of Ante-natal exercises which includes core strengthening, to alleviate back pain and disability related to it during pregnancy.

Association of Selected Physical Fitness Parameters with Club Head Speed and Carry Distance in Recreational Golf Players

The purpose of this study was to determine the association between selected physical fitness parameters and club head speed (CHS) as well as carry distance (CD) in recreational golf players. The study population comprised 101 male recreational golf players (age: 38.23 +/– 16.55 y). Using the driver and iron, both CHS and CD were measured utilising Flightscope technology. Lower back flexibility (sit-and-reach), muscle resistance/endurance (sit-ups, push-ups and wall-squats), muscle resistance (back dynamometer), cardio respiratory fitness (3 minute step-test) and balance (Biodex Balance System) were also measured for each participant. A positive association was observed between lower back strength and driver CD (r = 0.470), driver CHS (r = 0.558), iron CD (r = 0.439) and iron CHS (r = 0.597). Weaker associations were observed between push-ups and driver CHS (r = 0.285) as well as wall-squats and driver CHS (r = 0.250). When compared with other physical fitness parameters in recreational golf players, lower back strength seems to account for more of the variance observed in CHS and CD. These observations tend to suggest that lower back strength is an important contributor towards the execution of the golf swing and as such should be addressed through appropriate resistance and conditioning interventions.

Back Strength Predicts Walking Improvement in Obese, Older Adults With Chronic Low Back Pain

To compare the effects of 4 months of isolated lumbar resistance exercise and total body resistance exercise on walking performance in obese, older adults with chronic low back pain. A secondary analysis examined whether responsiveness to training modulated walking improvement. Randomized, controlled trial. Research laboratory affiliated with tertiary care facility. Participants (N= 49; 60-85 years) were randomized into a 4-month resistance exercise intervention (TOTRX), lumbar extensor exercise intervention (LEXT), or a control group (CON). Walking performance, maximal low back strength and leg strength, and average resting and low back pain severity score (from an 11-point numerical pain rating scale; NRSpain) were collected at baseline and month 4. The TOTRX and LEXT improved lumbar extensor strength relative to CON, and the TOTRX (P< .05). NRSpain scores at month 4 were lowest in the TOTRX group compared with the LEXT and CON groups, respectively (2.0 ± 1.7 points vs 3.7 ± 2.6 points and 4.6± 2.4 points; P< .006). A total of 53% and 67% of participants in the TOTRX and LEXT groups were responders who made lumbar extensor strength gains that achieved≥20% greater than baseline values. Although the TOTRX demonstrated the greatest improvement in walking endurance among the intervention groups, this did notreach significance (10.1 ± 12.2% improvement in TOTRX vs 7.4 ± 30.0% LEXT and-1.7 ± 17.4% CON; P= .11). Gait speed increased most in the TOTRX (9.0 ± 13.5%) compared with the LEXT and CONgroups (P< .05). The change in lumbar extensor strength explained 10.6% of the variance of the regression model for the change in walking endurance (P= .024). The use of LEXT and TOTRX produced similar modest improvements in patients' walking endurance. Lumbar extensor strength gain compared with leg strength gain is a moderate but important contributor to walking endurance in obese older adults with chronic low back pain. Responders to resistance exercise programs (event those with only lumbar extension exercise) who make at least a 20% improvement in strength can expect better improvement in walking endurance than those who do not achieve this strength improvement.

The effects of COREPOWER machine training versus home-based core training on golfers' physical fitness and sport performance.

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a 36 session COREPOWER machine training intervention and those of a 36 session home-based core training intervention programme on golfers' physical fitness and sport specific performance. It was hypothesised that both modalities will improve on golf related fitness aspects. Subjects comprised of experienced golfers and were randomly divided into a machine group (M: n = 51) and a home group (H: n = 50). The following variables were measured both pre- and post-intervention: lower back flexibility (sit & reach), muscle endurance (sit-ups and push-ups), muscle strength (wall-squats and back dynamometer), cardio-respiratory fitness (3 minute step-test), balance (Biodex Balance System), club head speed and carry distance (Flightscope). The Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney signed-rank test was used to compare pre and post-intervention measurements within each group with significance set at p < 0.05. An ANCOVA analyses was also run as well as Pearson Product Moment correlations. Results portrayed that with the exception of cardiorespiratory fitness, all variables in both groups showed significant (p<0.05) improvement post intervention. Push-ups (p = 0.000; ↑17.03%; d = 0.92) and driver carry distance (p = 0.000; ↑30.30%; d = 0.40) showed the greatest percentage improvement post intervention within group M, while sit-ups (p = 0.000; ↑14.41%; d = 0.77) and push-ups (p = 0.000; ↑12.52%; d = 0.90) showed the greatest percentage improvement within group H. Lower back strength holds significant correlation to golf performance. Thus both modalities, the COREPOWER machine training and the home-based manual core training were equally effective in improving selected fitness components; however the machine was more effective in improving golf performance parameters. These observations can be applied to golfers in addition to their usual golfing activities as well as to other sport populations as this study formed an evidence base for core training.