Effects of Mechanical Low Back Pain in Spatiotemporal Parameters of Gait

Abstract

Background: Mechanical low back pain is one of the most common complaints of people, which may interfere with some aspects of daily living activity such as walking. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to objectively assess the effects of mechanical low back pain on the gait pattern. Methods: Thirty mechanical low back pain patients and 30 healthy subjects were recruited randomly (age 18 - 60). The spatiotemporal parameters of gait were assessed and recorded as subjects walked on a two-meter platform three times at their normal walking speed. Descriptive statistical methods were used to evaluate demographic characteristics. The independent samples t-test was used to compare the groups for the gait parameters. Results: No significant differences were found between controls and patients in demographic variables. Significant differences were obtained between patients and healthy subjects in step length (P < 0.04), step time (0.009), single support time (0.04), stride length (0.04), stride time (0.01), velocity (0.03), and cadence (0.009). Conclusions: The results of this study showed mechanical low back pain has a great influence on the spatiotemporal parameters of gait. The findings can be used in selecting better rehabilitation procedures.