Low back pain (LBP) is the top leading global cause of years lived with disability. In order to examine LBP, researchers have typically viewed the spine in isolation. Clinically, it is imperative that the lower limbs are also considered. The aim of this study was to design a holistic and reliable multi-segmental kinematic model of the spine and lower limbs. The spine was modelled according to easily identifiable anatomical landmarks, including upper thoracic (T1-T6), lower thoracic (T7-T12) and lumbar (L1-L5) segments. Pelvis, thigh, shank and foot segments were included. A 10-camera 3D motion capture system was used to track retro-reflective markers, which were used to define each segment of 10 healthy participants as they walked 3 times at a comfortable speed over a 6km walkway. The relative peak angles between each segment were calculated using the Joint Coordinate System convention and Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICCs) were used to determine intra-rater and inter-rater reliability (between an experienced clinician and biomechanical scientist).Introduction
Method
It is well known that individuals with a history of low back pain (hLBP) exhibit altered movement patterns that are caused by changes in neuromuscular control. Postural disturbance provides an effective method for creating these differentiable movement patterns. This study has explored the response of the lower limb and spine to a translational perturbation similar to that experienced on public transport in healthy volunteers and those with hLBP. Healthy volunteers (n=16) and subjects with hLBP (n=10) were subjected to 31 identical postural disturbances at varying time intervals while standing atop a moving platform. Skeletal kinematics and muscle activation were recorded using a 10-camera Vicon system (Oxford, UK) and Myon electromyography (EMG) at the trunk (lumbar, lower thoracic, and upper thoracic segments), pelvis, thigh, calf, and foot. Joint angles were calculated using Body Builder (Vicon) and a unilateral seven-segment custom model.Statement of Purpose
Methods
