An investigation of the flexion relaxation ratio in adults with a self-reported history of low back pain and transient sitting-induced pain

Mackey, Sarah Charlotte (2022) An investigation of the flexion relaxation ratio in adults with a self-reported history of low back pain and transient sitting-induced pain. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

Background: Transient, sitting-induced back pain is commonly reported in response to prolonged sitting. Since pain may confound spine function outcomes, this investigation aimed to determine whether the flexion relaxation ratio (FRR) was affected by sitting-induced pain development or clinical history. Methods: 47 participants, aged 18-69, with (n = 24) and without a history of nonspecific low back pain (n = 23), were exposed to 1-hour of sitting. Perceived pain ratings were taken throughout the trial. Surface electromyography was collected bilaterally over the lumbar erector spinae, and lumbar angle was measured by accelerometers. Participants performed a maximal trunk flexion trial immediately pre/post and the FRR was calculated. Results: There were no significant interactions or differences in the FRR between time (pre/post), clinical history (+/-ve low back pain), or pain development status (pain developer/non-pain developer). Conclusions: 1-hour of sitting-induced pain and a clinical history of low back pain does not appear to induce changes in the motor control of a forward bending task, and in turn, the magnitude of the FRR. Therefore, neither sitting-induced pain or history of low back pain are likely to confound this outcome measure for sitting exposures less than 1- hour.

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