Relationship between chronic non-specific low back pain with disability, static posture and flexibility

ABSTRACT Among the types of chronic musculoskeletal pain, low back pain is one of the most common symptoms, with lifetime prevalence of 84%. Despite its high incidence, its causes and risk factors are not well understood. The objective of this study was: (1) compare the flexibility and characteristics of static posture between individuals with and without chronic non-specific low back pain; and (2) check for any relationship between the presence and intensity of chronic non-specific low back pain and disability, flexibility and static posture characteristics. A total of 104 adult subjects, aged 18 to 60 years, participated in the study. The sample was divided into two groups: patients with chronic non-specific low back pain (GWP - group with pain; n=52) and patients without low back pain (GWOP - group without pain; n=52). Data collection consisted of four steps: (1) anamnesis; (2) static postural assessment by photogrammetry using the Digital Image-based Postural Assessment (DIPA©) software protocol; (3) special body flexibility tests; and (4) application of the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) questionnaire. Pain intensity showed a significant correlation with the disability index (r=0.42; p=0.00) and Wells flexibility test (r=-0.32; p=0.02). No correlation was observed between the presence of pain and static posture and flexibility, and no difference was observed between the groups. Individuals with greater intensity of chronic non-specific low back pain presented greater disability and lower scores in the Wells flexibility test.