Differences in Regional Thoracolumbar Soft-Tissue Stiffness and Pain Parameters in Young Adults With or Without Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain: A Case-Control Study
International Journal of Clinical Practice, cilt.2026, sa.1, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 2026 Sayı: 1
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.1155/ijcp/4819980
- Dergi Adı: International Journal of Clinical Practice
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, CINAHL, EMBASE, Directory of Open Access Journals, Biomedical Reference Collection: Corporate Edition (EBSCO), Health Research Premium Collection (ProQuest)
- Anahtar Kelimeler: chronic nonspecific low back pain, myofascial stiffness, myotonometry, pressure pain threshold, thoracolumbar region
- Ankara Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Objective: Chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNSLBP) is a prevalent condition among young adults. While recent evidence suggests that the posterior connective tissue architectures and the thoracolumbar fascia (TLF) may contribute to pain mechanisms, in vivo surface measurements capture composite tissue properties rather than an isolated fascial sheet. This study aimed to investigate regional myofascial biomechanical properties and pain-related parameters in young adults with and without CNSLBP. Patients and Methods: This exploratory case-control study included 50 participants aged 18–29 years, divided into a CNSLBP group (n = 25) and an age- and sex-matched asymptomatic control group (n = 25). Pain intensity was assessed using a 10-cm Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and localized pressure pain thresholds (PPT) using a digital pressure algometer. Regional soft-tissue biomechanical properties (dynamic stiffness, tone, and logarithmic decrement) were measured bilaterally at the L1 and L3 vertebral levels and the 12th rib (latissimus dorsi region) using the MyotonPRO device. Results: Demographic characteristics were similar between groups (p > 0.05). PPT values were significantly lower in the CNSLBP group at the left latissimus dorsi, right L1, and left L1 and L3 levels compared to controls (p < 0.05), indicating localized mechanical hyperalgesia. Regional myofascial dynamic stiffness was significantly higher on the right side of the latissimus dorsi region in the CNSLBP group compared to controls (p = 0.027). No significant group differences were observed for oscillation frequency (tone) or logarithmic decrement across other assessed sites (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Young adults with CNSLBP exhibited increased regional tissue stiffness in the right latissimus dorsi and reduced PPTs at several thoracolumbar sites. As surface myotonometry reflects composite soft-tissue behavior rather than isolated fascial properties, these findings indicate localized alterations in regional soft-tissue mechanics and mechanical pain sensitivity. Further studies are needed to determine the clinical relevance of these alterations and whether they are modifiable through intervention.