Investigation of optimal lumbar spine posture in elite athletes

Background: In athletic populations, low back pain contributes 10 –15% of reported injuries. Due to the inherent kinematics associated with gymnastics, spinal injury prevalence is high (25–85%) and associated with a reduction or loss of training time. To optimise the distribution of axial compressive load through spinal structures during sporting tasks, the pr inciple of neutral spine positioning is advocated, guided by a clinician’s experience and opinion, away from end range of movements (RoM). The proposed Conceptual Compressive Lumbar Load Distribution Model (CLLDM) describes a zone of optimal axial load distribution, and provides parameters for lum bar spine postures which may be associated with increased spinal load.
Source: Manual Therapy - Category: Physiotherapy Authors: Source Type: research