Correlation between Hip Rotation Range-of-Motion Impairment and Low Back Pain. A Literature Review

Hip rotation range-of-motion (ROM) impairment has been proposed as a contributing mechanical factor in the development of low back pain (LBP) symptoms. There is a hypothesis which suggests that a limited range of hip rotation results in compensatory lumbar spine rotation. Hence, LBP may develop as the result. This article reviews studies assessing hip rotation ROM impairment in the LBP population.

The MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were searched without time restriction. Two authors independently selected related articles using the same search strategy and key words.

Among 124 articles 12 met the review inclusion criteria. The results of the studies are assessed in three sections, investigating the relationship between low back pain and 1) hip internal rotation ROM, 2) hip external rotation ROM and 3) hip total rotation ROM. Asymmetrical (right versus left, lead versus non-lead) and limited hip internal rotation ROM were common findings in patients with LBP. Reduced and asymmetrical total hip rotation was also observed in patients with LBP. However, none of the studies explicitly reported limited hip external rotation ROM.

The precise assessment of hip rotation ROM, especially hip internal rotation ROM, must be included in the examination of patients with LBP symptoms.