Comparison of thoracolumbar fascia flexibility and its relationship with trunk proprioception and spinal posture in individuals with nonspecific low back pain and healthy peers

Aim: To investigate the relationship between thoracolumbar fascia flexibility, trunk proprioception, and spinal posture in individuals with non-specific low back pain. Materials and Methods: A total of 80 participants were included in the study, comprising 40 individuals with nonspecific low back pain and 40 healthy controls. The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was used to determine pain severity; the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) to assess the impact of low back pain on daily life; and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ) to determine physical activity levels. Thoracolumbar fascia flexibility was assessed with a goniometric platform; trunk proprioception with; and spinal posture with the Spinal Mouse device. Results: There were significant differences in VAS and Oswestry Disability Index scores between the groups with and without nonspecific low back pain (p<0.05). IPAQ scores were similar between groups (p=0.288). Thoracolumbar fascia flexibility in the nonspecific low back pain group was lower than that in the healthy group (p<0.05). When results from the posture evaluation were compared, the thoracic angle during maximum flexion was significantly smaller in the group with non-specific low back pain (p=0.014). No significant results were found for the upright and maximum extension postures (p>0.05). No correlation was found between thoracolumbar fascia flexibility and trunk proprioception. Conclusion: Thoracolumbar fascia flexibility and trunk proprioception were adversely affected in individuals with nonspecific low back pain. Although TLF flexibility and proprioception differed between groups, TLF flexibility was not associated with proprioceptive error. These findings highlight the potential clinical value of incorporating assessments of thoracolumbar fascia flexibility and trunk proprioception into the evaluation of individuals with nonspecific low back pain.