Effects of Visual Input on Postural Stability and Compensatory Strategies in Adults with Chronic Low Back Pain

Abstract

Chronic low back pain (LBP) impairs balance control due to deficits in sensory integration, yet limited research examines postural sway under varying visual conditions. This study assessed the effects of visual input on postural stability using the normalized stability index, sway excursions, and contralateral toe-touch durations during repeated one-leg standing tasks. Thirty-two adults with LBP and 40 control subjects performed dominant limb standing on a force plate. Outcome measures included the Oswestry disability index, visual analog scale, normalized stability index, sway excursions (anteroposterior [AP], mediolateral [ML]), and contralateral toe-touch duration. The LBP group showed a significant interaction for the normalized stability index under visual conditions (F = 4.95, p = 0.03) with reduced stability in the second trial of the eyes-open condition (t = 1.71, p = 0.04). Sway excursions increased in the AP direction during the first trial (t = −2.43, p = 0.01) and in the ML (t = −2.09, p = 0.02) and AP (t = −1.84, p = 0.03) directions during the third trial. Contralateral toe-touch duration increased in the second trial (t = −2.06, p = 0.02). Individuals with LBP exhibited balance deficits, particularly under eyes-open conditions, relying on compensatory strategies. Optimizing neuromuscular control and sensory integration may improve postural stability.