Comparison of hamstrings flexibility in subjects with chronic low back pain versus normal individuals

Abstract

Objectives: As the hamstrings and lumbar extensors have their muscular origin in the pelvis, there may be possible relationship among these structures. So weakness or inflexibility of one structure may correspondingly change the strength and position of the other to maintain pelvis control, which may lead to development of low back pain. So the aim of the study is to compare the prevalence of hamstrings tightness in subjects with chronic low back pain versus normal individuals. Methods: A comparative study was conducted at S.B.B. College of Physiotherapy. A convenience sample of 60 participants with age group between 20 to 60 years was taken, 30 in each group. Group A were patients with chronic low back pain who were not taking any physiotherapy treatment and Group B were age and gender matched normal individuals. For both the groups, persons with previous history of knee injury, knee deformity and fractures around knee joint with limited range of movement and radiating pain were excluded. Patients with low back pain of more than 3 months and normal individuals who were not involved in any flexibility programme were approached and flexibility of hamstrings was measured by active knee extension test. Results: Means of hamstrings flexibility in groups A & B were compared using Mann Whitney U test. Mean degree of hamstrings tightness for A=31.63°±8.34°, B=14.30°±9.70°, U=81.00, p<0.01.Conclusion: There was significant difference of hamstrings flexibility between patients having chronic low back pain and age and gender matched normal individuals.