Comparison of Lower Extremity Function in Non-Athlete Females with and without the Lumbar Hyper Lordosis

Most of the research on hyperlordosis has investigated alignment, but due to the integrity of the skeletal-muscular-neurological system and chain reactions, dysfunction of any joint or muscle is reflected as the impairment both in the function of other joints or muscles and in the quality of function of those parts. Therefore, in hyperlordotic people, any change in lumbo-pelvic region may be accompanied not only by change in the function of this region, but also with change in the function of structures below and above the lumbo-pelvic region. The aim of the present study was to compare the function of lower extremity in non-athlete females exhibiting lumbar hyperlordosis and those of individuals without lumbar hyperlordosis. Both groups had no visible mal-alignment in the alignment of their lower extremity. In the current study, 60 female students, aged 18 to 24, living at Tehran University dormitory, were selected using purposeful sampling. A total of 30 individuals had a lumbar curvature angle greater than or equal to 58.92 degree and 30 had no hyperlordosis. In a precise measurement of the spine, the participants were investigated for any visible mal-alignment of the lower extremity. Those who were dubious about having other types of mal-alignment were excluded from the study. Lower extremity functional tests were implemented on both groups (with and without hyperlordosis). The tests included: Y, vertical jump, triple hop for distance, six-meter timed hop, and balance error scoring system. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods (independent T-test) in both groups. The results indicated that in Y test (p= 0.001), vertical jump (p= 0.007), triple hop for distance (p=0.001), six-meter timed hop (p= 0.002), and balance error scoring system (p= 0.001) there were significant differences between the two groups. According to the results, it could be concluded that hyperlordosis has negative effects on the function of lower extremity and it could cause a decrease in lower extremity function.