Chronic Adaptations to Spinal Flexion Exposure

N/ACompletedNCT05752006

University of Primorska30 enrolled

Overview

An experimental study, which will aim to compare changes of trunk mechanical properties and neuromuscular control following spinal flexion exposure in crane operators and control subjects.

Our experimental study will include 40 participants, more specifically 15 crane operators and 15 control subjects. All participants will complete a 60-min protocol of intermittent trunk flexion. Measurements of trunk mechanical properties and neuromuscular control will be performed prior to and following the 60-min protocol.

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Allocation

NON_RANDOMIZED

Purpose

BASIC_SCIENCE

Masking

NONE

Enrollment

Conditions

Occupational Exposure

Interventions

Repeated trunk flexionOTHER

A 60-min intermittent trunk flexion protocol. Participants will sit on a standard height sit, with their knees bent at approximately 90° with their hands crossed on their chest. They will perform 40 sets of 60 s of maintaining a flexed position, interspersed with 30 s of rest. Participants will achieve the flexed position by tilting the pelvis posteriorly and leaning forward. During rest, participants will sit up straight without leaning on the support.

Eligibility

Sex: MALEMin age: 30 YearsMax age: 55 YearsHealthy volunteers:

Medical Language ↔ Plain English

Inclusion Criteria: * Crane operators: employed as crane operators for more than 3 years * Occupational workers with a predominantly non static job (e.g. combination of sitting and standing) Exclusion Criteria: * History of chronic low back pain * Episode of acute low back pain * Hip injury in the past six months * Previous spine, pelvis or hip surgery * Hypermobility, diagnosed with the Beighton score * High intensity resistance training (\> 75 % of 1 repetition maximum) more than two times a week * Control group: sporting or recreational activities, that include repetitive spinal flexion or maintenance of a flexed posture (for example cycling or rowing).

Locations (1)

University of Primorska, Faculty of Health Sciences

Izola, Primorska, Slovenia

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes

Change in muscle stiffness

Muscle stiffness will be measured using ultrasound-based shear wave elastography during prone lying and forward stooping. Erector spinae and multifidus muscle stiffness will be expressed as the shear modulus value in kilopascals.

Time frame: 90 minutes

Secondary Outcomes

Change in range of motion

Trunk flexion range of motion will be evaluated using Spinal Mouse in maximal trunk flexion while standing.

Time frame: 90 minutes

Change in length of the spine

The length of spine will be measured on a custom-developed stadiometer, with the participants in a seated position.

Time frame: 90 minutes

Change in muscle activity

Muscle activity will be measured using electromyography during standing, a forward stoop hold and during maximal trunk flexion.

Time frame: 90 minutes

Change in lumbar lordosis angle

The lumbar lordosis angle will be evaluated using Spinal Mouse during upright standing.

Time frame: 90 minutes

Change in trunk extension maximal strength

Isometric trunk extension peak torque will be assessed on a trunk dynamometer.

Time frame: 90 minutes

Data from ClinicalTrials.gov

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