Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 14, 2025
Biomechanical Changes Related to Low Back Pain: An Innovative Tool for Movement Pattern Assessment and Treatment Evaluation in Rehabilitation
Published on: December 13, 2024
Relationships Between Skeletal Muscle Mass, Lumbar Lordosis, and Chronic Low Back Pain in the Elderly
Myung Woo Park1, Sang Jun Park2, Sun Gun Chung3
1Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Chung-Ang University Hospital, Seoul, Korea.
Objective:
Loss of skeletal muscle mass is known to be associated with multiple morbidities. However, there is a dearth of reports on its association with lumbar lordosis and musculoskeletal pain. The aim of this study was to delineate the cross-sectional relationship between loss of skeletal muscle mass, lumbar lordosis, and chronic low back pain (CLBP).
Methods:
A total of 721 medical records were reviewed, and data from 165 older subjects (over 65 years old; 81 men and 84 women) were retrospectively analyzed. Subjects were categorized into either the CLBP group (back pain for more than 6 months; 35 men and 36 women) or the control group (46 men and 48 women). The modified skeletal muscle mass index (MSMI, appendicular skeletal muscle mass [kg]/weight [kg] × 100), assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis, and lumbar lordotic angle (LLA) were measured and compared between the CLBP group and the control group. The correlation between MSMI and LLA was investigated.
Results:
The LLA of men and women in the CLBP group was significantly lower than that of the control group (p < 0.05). The MSMI was decreased in the CLBP group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). For both sexes, positive correlations were observed between the MSMI and LLA.
Conclusion:
A close cross-sectional relationship was observed between MSMI, LLA, and CLBP. This suggests a potential interaction between the reduction in skeletal muscle mass and altered lumbar spine sagittal alignment, which could lead to CLBP.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Muscles of the Vertebral Column
Superficial Layer:
The superficial layer consists primarily of the splenius muscles, which include the splenius capitis and splenius cervicis. These muscles are mainly responsible for the head and cervical spine movements, including extension, rotation, and lateral bending. The splenius capitis...
01:28Disorders of the Skeletal Muscle
Musculoskeletal disorders
Musculoskeletal disorders involve injuries and conditions affecting the skeletal muscles and associated connective tissues. These disorders can arise from acute biomechanical stresses or chronic overuse and can occur across different age groups. Common injuries include sprains, fractures, and muscular strains, often resulting from...