Radiographic Investigation of Lumbar Vertebrae in Patients with Flexion and Extension Movement Disorder Syndrome

Document Type : RESEARCH PAPER

Authors

1 Department of Physiotherapy, school of rehabilitation, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran

2 Movement impairment Research Center, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran

3 Mobility Impairment Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran

Abstract

Objectives: The kinesiopathology model is a new rehabilitation model classifying, evaluating, and treating 
patients with non-specific back pain. Sahrmann proposed this model based on movement disorder 
syndromes. The present cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the radiograph of the linear and angular 
displacement of the lumbar spine in patients with lumbar flexion impairment syndrome (LFIS) and lumbar 
extension impairment syndrome (LEIS).
Methods: In this study, 50 adults aged 18-46 years were enrolled, including 25 patients with LFIS and 25 with LEIS. 
The eligible participants were referred to the radiology department for radiography in the common position of neutral, 
full extension, and full flexion position while standing. The White and Panjabi’s method was used to measure the linear 
and angular displacements. Moreover, pain intensity was assessed using the visual analogue scale, and functional 
disability was investigated using a modified Oswestry Disability Questionnaire.
Results: The parameter of the linear displacement at the L3-L4 level was significantly different between the two 
groups (P=0.02). The mean duration of low back pain was longer in the LEIS, compared to the LFIS group (P=0.01).
Conclusion: In patients with LEIS, compensatory responses occur that cause less linear displacement at the L3-L4 
level, compared to the patients with LFIS. Therefore, it is important to design appropriate exercises to better control 
the linear displacement at the L3-L4 level during the full range of motion in patients with LFIS.
 Level of evidence: III

Keywords

Main Subjects


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