Age-related differences on low back pain and lower extremity isokinetic muscle strength and balance

Given the growing population of the elderly, understanding how aging impacts pain, muscle strength, and balance, especially in individuals with chronic low back pain, is imperative.

This study aims to investigate age-related differences in lower extremity muscle strength and balance in patients with chronic low back pain.

In this cross-sectional study, 110 people with chronic low back pain were divided into two age groups (Group 1, age: 29.89 ± 6.82, Group 2, age: 51.42 ± 6.33). Both groups used Oswestry for low back pain and disability assessment, isokinetic device for muscle strength, and Biodex Balance System for balance assessment.

There were no significant differences between groups in terms of pain (p = 0.426) or disability (p = 0.056). In contrast, significant differences were observed in isokinetic muscle strength: peak torque for the dominant side at 60°/s for quadriceps (p = 0.003) and hamstring (p = 0.007), and at 180°/s for hamstring (p = 0.012) and quadriceps (p = 0.011). The balance assessment revealed significant differences in fall risk (p = 0.004) and postural stability (p = 0.006) variables. The most significant regression association was found between dominant side 60°/s quadriceps and fall risk variables across age groups.

Understanding age-related differences in muscle strength and balance among patients with chronic low back pain is critical. Customizing rehabilitation interventions improves efficacy and quality of life. Further research is necessary to optimize clinical approaches and elucidate underlying mechanisms.