A comparison of Contractile properties of posterior chain muscles and trunk strength in females with non-specific chronic low back pain

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to compare the contractile properties of posterior chain muscles and isokinetic trunk strength in females with or without non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP).MethodAll participants (control group: n = 22, NSCLBP group: n = 22) were assessed using tensiomyography to evaluate the contractile properties of the posterior chain muscles, and all participants were also assessed for isokinetic trunk strength. An independent t-test was performed to compare the tensiomyography variables and isokinetic trunk strength test results between group.ResultsResult of tensiomyography, we found that the contraction time significant differences in the maximal radial muscle displacement, and velocity of contraction between groups in erector spinae. Semitendinosus revealed significant differences in all variables between groups. Additionally, the isokinetic trunk strength test revealed significant differences in all variables between groups.ConclusionThese findings suggest that due to the characteristics of NSCLBP, such as increased muscle stiffness, fat infiltration, and muscle fatigue, kinesiophobia, physical deconditioning syndrome, the posterior chain muscles of the NSCLBP group showed higher muscle stiffness and slower contraction speed than the control group. Also in the NSCLBP group, trunk isokinetic muscle strength was lower than in the control group, and flexor and extensor muscles were unbalanced.