Linking latest knowledge of injury mechanisms and spine function to the prevention of low back disorders

While several sophisticated scientific approaches have been employed to understand low back function and injury mechanisms, very few have been broadly used to develop and justify injury prevention strategies. This paper looks beyond the linked segment model, and the lessons learned from this biomechanical approach, to consider the application of more sophisticated approaches. These include modelling approaches with greater anatomical and biological fidelity, fusing the lessons learned from the areas of tissue mechanics and concepts of spine stability, together with some studies that have examined several characteristics including psychosocial, physiological and personal variables. The objective is to better link recently discovered mechanisms of injury and spine tissue health with injury risk reducing approaches.