Abstract
Recently a great amount of research has been conducted into fatigability of paraspinal muscles in relation to Lower Back Pain (LBP). Additionally relationships have been observed between a general level of “fitness” and LBP. This research project aimed to evaluate the influence of aerobic fitness and health on lower back muscle function as measured by Electromyographic (EMG) spectral parameters.
Participants undertake a series of psychometric tests, anthropometric data collection, EMG spectral analysis of the paraspinal muscles at lumbar and thoracic regions, and an aerobic fitness test. The EMG test involves a 30-sec isometric pull against a load normalised for weight. The spectral half-width, initial median frequency and median frequency slope are calculated. Participants are given biofeedback and exercise advice.
Participants in this study were of above average fitness level compared to normative data. Other anthropometric data were similar to previous work conducted within this department. Preliminary regression analysis results have revealed no relationships between aerobic fitness level and EMG parameters, a finding that is counter to current beliefs on LBP and fitness, however it was observed that age did significantly influence lumbar spectral variable values (p = .002). A similar psychological profile was observed for all fitness levels.
The abstracts were prepared by Dr C Pither. Correspondence should be addressed to him at the British Orthopaedic Association, Royal College of Surgeons, 35–43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PN
