Insights From Sensory Organization Test on Balance Strategies and Fall Efficacy in Chronic Low Back Pain

Chronic low back pain (LBP) significantly impacts quality of life and presents challenges in musculoskeletal health management. Effective sensory integration for balance control is crucial; however, the relationship between fall efficacy and balance strategies in individuals with LBP remains underexplored. This study aimed to evaluate balance strategy scores and equilibrium indices across various Sensory Organization Test (SOT) conditions by comparing individuals with and without chronic LBP in the context of fall efficacy.

A total of 42 control subjects and 34 subjects with chronic LBP participated in the study. Balance strategy scores and equilibrium indices were assessed across six SOT conditions over three trials. The modified Falls Efficacy Scale (FES) was used to evaluate fall efficacy, incorporating five key outcome measures representing physical, mental, and social functions.

The LBP group exhibited a significant decrease in fall efficacy (t = 2.78, p = 0.01) and demonstrated significant interactions between trials and conditions (F = 25.39, p = 0.001). In SOT Condition 2, the LBP group showed significantly higher strategy scores during the first (t = -2.14, p = 0.01) and second (t = -1.75, p = 0.04) trials, with no significant difference in the third trial (t = 0.16, p = 0.33). Balance strategy scores varied significantly across trials (F = 6.71, p = 0.01).

The LBP group's higher strategy scores suggest a predominant reliance on ankle strategies to maintain balance, particularly under conditions with limited visual input during initial trials. This adaptive strategy may enhance fall efficacy by facilitating balance adjustments. These findings provide valuable insights for targeted strategies aimed at improving postural stability in the LBP group. Optimizing proprioceptive feedback and balance confidence is crucial for reducing fall risk and functional limitations.