Postural control in individuals with and without non-specific chronic low back pain: a preliminary case-control study

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Neurology
• Musculoskeletal Disorders

Background:

• Chronic low back pain (cLBP) affects a significant portion of the adult population, with its chronicity factors remaining unclear.
• Altered postural control is a potential risk factor for cLBP, but existing research provides inconclusive evidence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate and compare postural control during quiet standing in individuals with and without non-specific cLBP.
• To investigate the influence of visual input and surface stability on postural control in individuals with cLBP.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 21 individuals with cLBP and 23 pain-free controls.
• Postural control was assessed using a force plate (modified clinical test of sensory interaction and balance).
• Pain severity, quality of life, and functional disability were measured using the Visual Analogue Scale, SF-36 Questionnaire, and Roland-Morris Questionnaire, respectively.

Main Results:

• Participants with cLBP demonstrated significantly greater postural sway compared to controls.
• Specific parameters showing deficits in the cLBP group included total center of pressure (COP) oscillation, root mean square sagittal plane sway, COP area, and mean speed of oscillation.
• These postural control deficits were more pronounced in the cLBP group under conditions of eyes closed and on unstable surfaces.

Conclusions:

• Postural control is demonstrably impaired in individuals with cLBP, characterized by increased COP oscillation.
• Visual deprivation and unstable support surfaces amplify the postural control deficits observed in individuals with cLBP.