This study aims to explore, in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain (cnsLBP), the relationships between lumbar muscle activity, structural and morphological characteristics of the paraspinal muscles, and movement strategies, during a functional, ecological task: walking. To do this, we will compare a group of cnsLBP patients with a group of asymptomatic subjects, combining several types of measurements taken at different walking intensities: spinal kinematics (movement strategies), electromyographic activity of the lumbar muscles, and structural parameters of the paraspinal muscles (stiffness and thickness). The objective is twofold: first, to identify any significant differences between cnsLBP patients and healthy subjects on these combined parameters; second, to explore the interactions between these three dimensions (muscle activity, muscle structure, movement strategy) in order to better understand their relationships with pain and with how CNSLBP functions during physical activity. This multidimensional, ecological approach could also help identify subgroups within the cnsLBP population, reflecting the clinical heterogeneity already documented in the literature. Ultimately, the expected results will contribute to a better understanding of the biomechanical and neuromuscular mechanisms involved during physical activity in these patients, and will provide objective elements to help individualize physical activity recommendations according to each patient's profile.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NON_RANDOMIZED
Purpose
BASIC_SCIENCE
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
60
After a warm-up period on the treadmill, the test involves walking, starting at a speed of 3 km/h and increasing the speed by 0.5 km/h every 2 minutes, up to a maximum of 7 km/h. The speed of 7 km/h is a target speed and is not mandatory.
University of Rennes 2
Rennes, France
Change in muscle stiffness of the erector spinae and multifidus muscles between rest and after physical activity
Change in muscle stiffness, measured by shear modulus using shear-wave elastography, of the erector spinae and multifidus muscles, between rest and after physical activity.
Time frame: As the study consists of a single session, the time frame is between the pre-walking-test and post-walking-test assessments.
Ultrasound morphological measurements
Measurement of the cross-sectional area and thickness-as determined by ultrasound-of the erector spinae and multifidus muscles at rest.
Time frame: Data were collected during the experimental session.
Electromyographic activity
Lumbar muscle activations during three-dimensional lumbar movements and while walking
Time frame: Data were collected during the experimental session.
Kinematics
The kinematics of the lumbopelvic-femoral complex (segmental velocity and acceleration, joint angles) during three-dimensional movements and while walking.
Time frame: Data were collected during the experimental session.
General data
Age, sex, height, weight, body mass index, and socioeconomic status are recorded.
Time frame: Data were collected during the experimental session
Impact, effort, and sensations during the walking experience
Intensity of pain experienced, measured using a numerical rating scale at rest and during activity. Perceived exertion during walking on a treadmill, measured using the Borg CR-10 scale. Heart rate recorded using a Garmin® HRM heart rate monitor. Time, distance, and speed achieved during the walking task
Time frame: Data were collected during the experimental session
Physical function
Patients' physical function is assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI).
Time frame: Data from the questionnaire were collected during the experimental session, or shortly before (between 1 and 7 days beforehand)
Pain intensity and location
The intensity of pain experienced by participants on the day of the test, as measured by a numerical rating scale, and the location of the pain, as determined by the Pain Drawing test.
Time frame: Data were collected during the experimental session
Daily impact of pain
The daily impact of pain (daily activities, work, leisure, anxiety and depression, social life) is assessed using the Dallas Self-Report Questionnaire (DRAD).
Time frame: Data from the questionnaire were collected during the experimental session, or shortly before (between 1 and 7 days beforehand)
Quality of life health-related
Health-related quality of life is assessed using the SF-12 questionnaire (SF-12)
Time frame: Data from the questionnaire were collected during the experimental session, or shortly before (between 1 and 7 days beforehand)
Physical activity and sedentary behavior
Participants' physical activity and sedentary behavior are assessed using the French version of the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ).
Time frame: Data from the questionnaire were collected during the experimental session, or shortly before (between 1 and 7 days beforehand)
Kinesiophobia
Fear of physical injury related to movement is assessed using the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK).
Time frame: Data from the questionnaire were collected during the experimental session, or shortly before (between 1 and 7 days beforehand)
Anxiety and depressive disorders
Screening for anxiety and depressive disorders is performed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD).
Time frame: Data from the questionnaire were collected during the experimental session, or shortly before (between 1 and 7 days beforehand)
Validity of ultrasound measurements
The validity of ultrasound measurements is assessed by the intra-operator repeatability of ultrasound measurements.
Time frame: Data were collected during the experimental session
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