Low back pain and concept of segmental stabilisation

Abstract

Low back pain (LBA) is a universal problem, more common in sedentary subjects, yet not very rare in sportspersons. Common organic causes of LBA in sports persons are intervertebral disc prolapse, facet joint pathology, sacroiliac joint lesions, damage to myofascial structures and metabolic factors. Non-organic causes of LBA are psychosocial, iatrogenic, labels of disability and subsequent prolonged rest, forensic, associated with litigation (Long 1995), behavioural (common in sportspersons), perceived disability with mistaken fear of re-injury (Zusman 1998 and Vlaeyan et al 1995), and anticipation of pain: pain perceived in anticipation in the trapezius area instead of lumbar area (Main and Watson 1996). Bending and tortional forces along with axial loading are the most damaging movements.