Impact of Stenosis and Neural Foraminal Compromise on Low Back Pain and Postural Alignment

Low back pain (LBP) is a common and debilitating condition often associated with lumbar spinal stenosis and neural foraminal compromise. These spinal pathologies can lead to significant pain, disability, and alterations in postural alignment. This study aims to elucidate the impact of stenosis and neural foraminal compromise on LBP and postural alignment. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted involving 80 participants, divided into two groups: 40 with lumbar spinal stenosis and/or neural foraminal compromise (Group 1) and 40 controls without these conditions (Group 2). Inclusion criteria for Group 1 included participants aged 30-70 years with a clinical and radiological diagnosis of stenosis or foraminal compromise, and LBP for at least 3 months. Exclusion criteria included history of spinal surgery, significant comorbidities, and neurological disorders. Data collection involved demographic information, MRI/CT imaging, postural assessments, VAS for pain, ODI for disability, and SF-36 for quality of life. Statistical analyses included independent t-tests and chi-square tests. Participants with stenosis or foraminal compromise reported significantly higher VAS scores (6.8 ± 1.2) compared to controls (2.1 ± 1.1), and greater ODI scores (34.5 ± 9.6 vs. 10.2 ± 5.4). Quality of life was lower in Group 1, with SF-36 physical and mental component scores significantly reduced. Postural measurements showed a lower lumbar lordosis angle (32.1° ± 8.3° vs. 43.5° ± 7.9°) and higher pelvic tilt (19.4° ± 4.5° vs. 12.7° ± 3.8°) in Group 1. Lumbar spinal stenosis and neural foraminal compromise are associated with increased LBP, greater disability, poorer quality of life, and significant postural misalignments. Comprehensive management strategies are essential for improving patient outcomes. Key words: Low back pain, lumbar spinal stenosis, neural foraminal compromise, postural alignment, disability, quality of life.