Orthopedic & Muscular System: Current Research
Open Access

Abstract

Trunk Muscle Strength in Patient with Low Back Pain

Yuichiro MINAMI and Shinichi DAIKUYA

The purpose of this study was to clarify the characteristics of trunk muscle strength in patients with low back pain. The peak torques of isometric trunk flexion, extension, side bending, and rotation were compared. We found that the peak torque of rotation to the painful side was significantly lower than that to the no-pain side in patients with low back pain. No intra- or inter-group differences in peak torque were detected except for that of rotation. In the physical therapy regimens of patients with low back pain, it is best to keep these points in mind as the features of isometric muscle strength-the trunk flexors and extensors-are not always weak, and focus should be placed on strengthening the trunk rotators.