Article

OBJECTIVE: To assess with an isokinetic dynamometer the force and endurance of
the spinal flexor and extensor muscles in pre-teens or teens aged 11 to 13 and 14
to 16 years with and without low back pain (LBP). METHOD: The control group and
the LBP group were homogeneous in terms of age, weight, height and Body Mass
Index (BMI). Assessment was carried out with the isokinetic dynamometer Cybex
Norm(R). The spinal flexors and extensors were explored concentrically at speeds
of 60 degrees , 90 degrees and 120 degrees /sec. The parameters chosen were:
maximal moment of force (MMF), mean power (MP), total work (TW), F/E ratios
(between the flexors and the extensors for the aforesaid parameters). In the LBP
groups, clinical information (pain, extensibility of the spinal and sub-pelvic
muscles, sports practice) and sagittal radiological data were all measured.
RESULTS: While no significant difference in isokinetic performance was found
between asymptomatic and LBP children in the 11-to-13-year-old group, the
isokinetic performances of the LBP children were influenced positively by BMI
value, number of hours of physical activity and radiologic value of the lumbar
lordosis. As regards these pre-teens, assessment with an isokinetic dynamometer
does not highlight muscle characteristics that might explain LBP occurrence. As
regards the 14-to-16-year-old group, muscle strength has been found to be
correlated with age. LBP teens were showed to have weaker extensors and stronger
flexors than the healthy teens. It is with regard to this age group that
assessment with an isokinetic dynamometer clearly yields interesting results.
Since we have yet to standardize our evaluation criteria (working speed, number
of trials...), it is difficult to compare our results with those reported in the
literature. CONCLUSION: This is a preliminary study involving a relatively low
number of patients. That said, given the fact that numerous parameters are
connected with the age and height of the subjects, assessment with an isokinetic
dynamometer can be constructively carried out from the age of 14. In order to
further enhance understanding of this phenomenon, a longitudinal and comparative
study of a larger group is needed.
CI - Copyright (c) 2013 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS ; FRANCAIS