Core Muscle Endurance and Its Association with Factors Contributing to Low Back Pain Development

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Sports Injury and Biomechanics, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Health, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.

2 Department of Sports Injury and Biomechanics, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Health, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is common, especially among individuals known as pain developers (PDs), who experience discomfort during prolonged standing without a prior LBP history. Lumbar lordosis and hip abductor strength are linked to LBP development, while core muscle endurance is vital for spinal stability and could prevent LBP.
Aim: This study aimed to assess the relationship between core muscle endurance, pain onset during prolonged standing, hip abductor strength, and lumbar lordosis in PDs.
Materials and Methods: Twenty-four female PDs participated, with core endurance measured via the McGill test battery, hip abductor strength assessed through the Active Hip Abduction (AHAbd) test, and lumbar curvature analyzed using photographic imaging.
Results: A significant positive correlation was identified between core muscle endurance and pain onset time (r = 0.46, p = 0.04). Participants with lower core endurance experienced earlier pain onset. However, no significant relationships were found between lumbar lordosis, AHAbd scores, and McGill test results, suggesting core endurance plays a crucial role in LBP prevention.
Conclusion: This study underscores the importance of core muscle endurance in reducing the risk of LBP development. Strengthening core muscles may serve as a viable preventive strategy for individuals prone to LBP.

Keywords

References

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Sport Sciences and Health Research
Volume 17, Issue 2
July 2025
Pages 1-11

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