AI Article Synopsis

  • Decreased hamstring flexibility is linked to lower back pain (LBP) in women, with this study focusing on the differences in flexibility between the right and left legs among Israeli adult and elderly women.
  • The study involved 109 women, who were divided into adult (ages 45-60) and older groups (ages 60-75), using specific tests to measure hamstring flexibility and assess LBP.
  • Results revealed significant differences in hamstring flexibility between legs, with a notable negative correlation between hamstring shortening and functional disability in older women, highlighting the importance of balanced leg flexibility in managing LBP even in those who exercise regularly.

Article Abstract

Background And Objectives: Decreased hamstring flexibility has been associated with LBP (lower back pain). Increased tightness or shortening of hamstring muscle may cause pelvis imbalance or tilt and create instability and increase LBP risk. This study was conducted to pinpoint the differences between right and left hamstring length and their association to LBP in Israeli adult and elderly women.

Methods: N = 109 women which were divided into two groups: Adult group, 41 women (aged 45-60) and older group, 68 women (aged 60-75), with LBP that exercise regularly (minimum twice weekly) were selected based on inclusion criteria. Hamstring flexibility was measured using the Passive Straight Leg Raise test and Sit and Reach test, and LBP was measured using the Oswestry Disability Index (OS), the Roland-Morris questionnaire (RM), and a personal information questionnaire.

Findings: Findings indicate a statistically significant difference (p < .05) in hamstring flexibility between right and left legs in PSLR test, with the left being shorter than the right. A significant negative correlation was found between hamstring shortening to function in OS and RM questionnaires in the older group, no significant correlation was found between left -right hamstring flexibility differences and reduced function with LBP in the OS and RM questionnaires.

Conclusion: s: Hamstring shortening in adult and elderly women exists despite regular exercise. Future studies must be incorporated to improve hamstring flexibility with emphasis on balance of left and right legs to examine how this will affect LPB reports and compare women who exercise versus women who do not.

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Source
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jbmt.2023.07.014DOI Listing

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