Investigating the Correlation Between Anterior-Posterior and Lateral Asymmetric Muscular Balance With Low Back Pain

Objective The objective of this pilot study was to determine if there is a correlation between the proposed physical testing protocol and low back pain. The proposed physical testing protocol is an attempt to assess muscular asymmetry in the anterior-posterior plane and the lateral plane. Methods A total of 96 volunteers were recruited from Touro University after obtaining IRB approval. Volunteers were initially provided a questionnaire regarding demographics and back pain. After ensuring participants satisfied the inclusion criteria, a physical test protocol was performed. After data compilation, odds ratios as well and linear regression models were generated to assess for correlation with back pain. Results A total of 96 participants were recruited. The odds ratio for asymmetric anterior-posterior balance in relation to back pain is 3.00 with a 95% confidence interval 1.26-7.12. The odds ratio for total ability to tolerate asymmetric loads greater than 50% of ideal body weight is 0.44 with a 95% confidence interval 0.11-1.77. The linear regression coefficient of anterior-posterior balance greater than 25% of ideal body weight in relation to level of pain is 1.96. Conclusions Increased muscular asymmetry in the sagittal plane and lateral plane showed a trend toward increased levels of low back pain; however, there is a weak correlation. This is a correlation and not an association. Future studies to assess the relationship between muscular balance and low back pain are needed to determine if therapy can be targeted to improve muscular sagittal balance, which can improve symmetry and back pain.