EFFECTS OF CHRONIC LOW BACK PAIN ON POSTURAL STABILITY IN THE ELDERLY

Introduction: The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of chronic low back pain on postural stability in an elderly population. Materials and Method: The study enrolled 30 patients >65 years with chronic low back pain and 30 age-matched healthy controls. To assess postural stability, the centre of foot pressure sway was examined using a foot pressure platform. The chair stand, 10-m walk and timed up and go tests were conducted in both groups. Results: There was no difference between the two groups with respect to the mean age and gender. The centre of pressure sway was increased in the anteroposterior and mediolateral directions in the group with low back pain. A marked reduction in postural stability was observed during measurements with the eyes closed. This reduction was more prominent in the anteroposterior direction (p<0.001). The elderly group with low back pain showed worse dynamic balance as assessed by the timed up and go test (p<0.001). The elderly patients with low back pain also showed considerably diminished performance during the chair stand and 10-m walk tests (p<0.001). Conclusion: Chronic low back pain leads to impaired postural stability, loss of dynamic balance and reduced functional mobility in the elderly. Consequently, rehabilitation for postural instability should not be overlooked while planning treatment for low back pain in older patients.