Related Experiment Videos
Movement system impairment-based categories for low back pain: stage 1 validation
Linda R Van Dillen1, Shirley A Sahrmann, Barbara J Norton
1Program in Physical Therapy, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA. vandillenl@msnotes.wustl.edu
The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy
|April 10, 2003
Summary
This study validates a classification system for mechanical low back pain (MLBP). It identifies three key factors related to lumbar movement impairments, aiding in patient categorization for conservative management.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Physical Therapy
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Pathoanatomic approaches to mechanical low back pain (MLBP) have limited utility.
- Limited data exists on movement system impairments in MLBP.
- A classification system for MLBP based on observable signs and symptoms is needed for conservative management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test the construct validity of a proposed movement system impairment-based classification for MLBP.
- To determine if a classification system based on movement impairments can be empirically supported.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 188 patients with MLBP.
- A standardized examination was used to assess movement impairments.
- Principal components analysis and split-sample cross-validation were employed.
Main Results:
- Three distinct factors emerged from the analysis, consistent across both samples.
- These factors related to lumbar rotation and extension movements and alignments.
- Two factors concerned symptoms during lumbar rotation/extension, and one factor related to signs during lumbar rotation.
Conclusions:
- The study provides preliminary evidence supporting three of the five proposed categories for MLBP classification.
- These categories are based on lumbar rotation with extension, lumbar rotation alone, and lumbar extension alone.
- This classification system may help in grouping patients with MLBP based on specific movement impairments.