Gender differences in asymmetrical limb support patterns between subjects with and without recurrent low back pain

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Gait Analysis
• Low Back Pain Research

Background:

• Investigating limb dominance effects on temporal-spatial gait parameters is crucial for understanding recurrent low back pain (LBP).
• Existing research lacks detailed information on gender differences in dominant limb support patterns among individuals with LBP.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine temporal-spatial gait parameters based on limb dominance and gender in individuals with and without LBP.
• To identify how limb dominance and gender interact to influence gait in LBP populations.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a 3D motion capture system to measure gait parameters in 110 right-limb dominant older adults (51 with LBP, 59 controls).
• Analyzed initial double, single, and terminal double limb support times, and walking speed.
• Assessed gender differences in gait parameters based on limb dominance within LBP and control groups.

Main Results:

• Limb dominance significantly impacted single and terminal double limb support times, and walking speed.
• Interactions between group (LBP vs. control) and gender were observed for single limb support time and walking speed.
• Male subjects with LBP exhibited significantly longer single limb support times on their non-dominant limb.

Conclusions:

• Gender and group interactions based on limb dominance suggest pain avoidance and asymmetrical limb support patterns in LBP.
• Dominance-dependent gait deviations may be addressed through interventions focusing on unweighted ambulation.
• Understanding dominant limb dependency and associated postural control strategies is vital for clinicians managing male patients with recurrent LBP.