Musculoskeletal Condition and Adaptation as the Predictors of Low Back Pain in Sports Games

Abstract

Objective. The objective of this systematic review of literature was to identify if the musculoskeletal condition and disorders caused by adaptation on specific movement patterns in sports games is as risk factors of low back pain (LBP). Data sources. A comprehensive search of articles published in the last 20 years was conducted in four databases (PubMed®, Google Scholar, Web of Science). Different combinations of keywords such as LBP, muscle imbalance, muscle strength, muscle endurance, musculoskeletal system and sport game were used, applying the Boolean operators. After establishing the criteria of selection, 9 studies of 52 initially identified were analyzed. Results. From the viewpoint of musculoskeletal condition and its functional adaptation as the possible risk factors of LBP in the sports games it is suggested that the musculoskeletal system, its functional disorders, endurance and maximal strength of the trunk muscles are not risk factors of LBP in every aspect. The risk factors appear to be muscle imbalances combined with functional asymmetry of pelvic and its asymmetrical rotation as a result of unilateral overloading, as well as the low maximal lumbar[ flexion. Low level of endurance of trunk and core muscles cannot be uniquely identified as a risk factor of LBP. Similarly, the maximal isometric strength of trunk muscles do not act as a risk factor of LBP, either. Conclusion. A detailed comparison of data between the sports games, within game, sex or age was not possible. Further research is necessary. Nevertheless, based on the results of this review, it is obvious that in sports games LBP is a consequence of functional and structural changes of pelvic and related muscles. There is less evidence for endurance and maximal isometric strength of trunk muscles to be a risk factor of LBP.

Keywords

• low back pain, musculoskeletal condition, adaptation, sports games