Mechanical energy analysis identifies compensatory strategies in individuals with and without Non-specific chronic low back pain

This quasi-experimental study aimed to identify biomechanical compensatory strategies during gait in individuals with non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP) by analyzing mechanical energy expenditure (MEE) at the lower limb joints. Twenty-eight male participants (14 with NSCLBP and 14 healthy, mean age 27.9 ± 2.1 years) were assessed. Biomechanical data were collected using a three-dimensional motion analysis system and inverse dynamics method to calculate MEE in concentric, eccentric, and no-transfer (no energy transfer between segments) conditions for the ankle, knee, hip, and low back joints. The results revealed significantly higher eccentric MEE at the ankle, hip, and low back joints in healthy controls compared to NSCLBP patients (P≤0.05). No significant differences were found in concentric or no-transfer MEE at any joint, or eccentric MEE at the knee joint (P>0.05). These findings indicate disruptions in the eccentric energy flow at the low back, hip and ankle joints in individuals with NSCLBP, suggesting a reduction in mechanical efficiency. This highlights the importance of targeted rehabilitation interventions to improve gait efficiency in this population.