Evaluation of Motor Control Through Functional Movement Patterns of the Lumbar Spine Among Elite Special Forces...

Background: A comprehensive physical therapy process includes prevention against musculoskeletal overload syndromes. Monitoring the occurrence of motor control disorders is one of the tools for preventing overload syndromes of the musculoskeletal system and consequent injuries. Assessing motor control and preventive actions can contribute to minimizing the risk of a soldier being removed from duty, reducing the likelihood of injury and thus preventing job loss. The aim of the study was to evaluate directional control of the lumbar spine using the dissociation tests included in the Kinetic Control physiotherapy method. This physiotherapeutic method is used to identify and assess the occurrence and therapy of motor control disorders, including uncontrolled movement in the locomotor system. Methods: Twenty-three soldiers (40.26 ± 4.5 age) from special units of the Polish Armed Forces were qualified for a one-time assessment. The research methods included the evaluation of motor control using dissociation tests based on the physiological method of kinetic control. The control of the lumbar spine in the directions of flexion, extension, and rotation during hip joint movements was evaluated. Uncontrolled movement was understood as the inability to maintain a stationary lumbar spine in a neutral position during specific directions of hip joint movement included in the tests. Results: The survey showed that the area of pain reported by the operators was the lumbar spine in the last three months. 69.57% of the respondents indicated that this area was the site of their complaints. The results of the motor examination showed statistically significant test results (p-value < 0.0001) indicating the presence of motor control disorders in the form of uncontrolled movement of the lumbar spine in control tests for flexion, rotation, and extension. Conclusions: The main results of the present study showed the appearance of interference with the functional movement patterns of the lumbar spine in a group of special unit operators. Impaired control of movement was observed in the direction of flexion, rotation, and lumbar extension, which may be potentially associated with the generation of lumbar spine pain syndromes.