Isokinetic and non-dynamometric tests in low back pain patients related to pain and disability index

This study compared isokinetic and non-dynamometric tests for their correlation with subjective low back pain symptoms.

A total of 185 patients with chronic low back pain were examined.

The repetitive arch-up and sit-up tests correlated significantly with pain and disability (Million index) both in men and women (r ranged from -0.39 to -0.46; P < 0.001). In women, the isokinetic trunk flexion and extension tests and the non-dynamometric tests correlated equally well with the Million index. In men, the isokinetic flexion and extension tests had weaker correlations. Overall, the isokinetic lifting tests showed lower correlations than did the isokinetic trunk extension tests. In the isokinetic flexion and extension tests, fast testing speeds (120 degrees/sec and 150 degrees/sec) correlated somewhat better with the subjective symptoms than did the lowest speed (30 degrees/sec).

The non-dynamometric tests are still useful in clinical practice in spite of the development of more accurate muscle strength evaluation methods.