A Comparison of Standing Postural Control and Gait Parameters in People with and Without Chronic Low Back Pain. A Cross-sectional Case-control Study.

Abstract

Objective Differences in postural control and gait have been identified between people with and without chronic low back pain (CLBP), however many previous studies present data from small samples, or have utilised methodologies with questionable reliability. This study, employing robust methodology, hypothesised that there would be a difference in postural control, and spatiotemporal parameters of gait in people with CLBP compared to asymptomatic individuals. Methods This cross-sectional case-control study age- and gender-matched 16 CLBP and 16 asymptomatic participants. Participants were assessed barefoot i)standing, over three 40 second trials, under four posture challenging conditions ii)during gait. Primary outcome was postural stability (assessed by root mean squared error of centre of pressure (CoP) displacement (CoPRMSEAP) and mean CoP velocity (CoPVELAP), both in the antero-posterior direction); gait outcomes were hip range of movement and peak moments, walking speed, cadence, and stride length, assessed using force plates and a motion analysis system.Results There were no differences between groups in CoPRMSEAP(p=0.26), or CoPVELAP(p=0.60) for any standing condition. During gait, no differences were observed between groups for spatio-temporal parameters, maximum, minimum and total ranges of hip movement, or peak hip flexor or extensor moments in the sagittal plane. Conclusions In contrast to previous research, this study suggests that people with mild to moderate CLBP present with similar standing postural control, and parameters of gait to asymptomatic individuals.