Lumbopelvic-Hip Rhythm in People with Lumbar Flexion-with-Rotation Syndrome during Hip Internal Rotation

According to previous research, hip internal rotation (HIR) aggravates low back pain (LBP) symptoms, especially in patients with lumbar flexion with rotation (F + R) syndrome. Therefore, the present study aimed to examine the lumbopelvic-hip rhythm during the HIR test in patients with this syndrome.  

In this cross-sectional study, 20 men without LBP and 20 matched men with LBP, subcategorized in the F+R subgroup, participated. The participants performed the HIR test. Kinematics data were recorded using a motion analysis system. After processing the kinematics, a comparison was made in the hip and pelvic kinematics between the groups.  

A statistical analysis based on an independent t test revealed a significant increased (P < 0.05) pelvic rotation during the tests with the dominant (P = 0.007) and nondominant limbs (P = 0.025) in those with LBP. The analysis also showed that during the test with the dominant lower limb, the pelvis and hip moved with a more synchronized pattern in patients with LBP (P = 0.001).  

In the patients with lumbar F + R syndrome, there was a tendency for early pelvic rotation during the dominant HIR test. Moreover, LBP people also exhibited a greater pelvic rotation range of motion in the first half and whole pathways of the test. These impairments could be a risk factor for the development of LBP symptoms in these patients.