IMPAIRED MOTOR CONTROL IN ROWERS WITH NON-SPECIFIC LOW BACK PAIN: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS WITH HEALTHY CONTROL

Atif, Mostafa Mohamed; Mohamed Ismail, Manal; Moustafa Aldosouki Hegazy, Mohammed; Fawzy Mahmoud, Nesreen

doi:10.21608/ijtau.2025.388432.1021

IMPAIRED MOTOR CONTROL IN ROWERS WITH NON-SPECIFIC LOW BACK PAIN: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS WITH HEALTHY CONTROL

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Department of 1. Department of Physical Therapy for Musculoskeletal Disorders and its Surgery, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Ahram Canadian University.

² Cairo University

10.21608/ijtau.2025.388432.1021

Abstract

Background: Non-specific low back pain (NSLBP) is prevalent among athletes, particularly rowers, affecting performance and quality of life. Understanding motor control deficits (MCDs) in this context is crucial. Objectives: To assess MCDs in rowers with NSLBP and compare the results with healthy rowers. Methods: Eighty-four active rowers were included: those with NSLBP (n=42) and healthy controls (n=42). Motor control deficits were evaluated using four motor control tests including Active Straight Leg Raise (ASLR), Bent Knee Fall Out (BKFO), Knee Lift Abdominal Test (KLAT) and Prone Abdominal Drawing test with a pressure biofeedback unit, all tests were done for both lower limbs. Results: Significant differences were observed between rowers with NSLBP and healthy controls across all MCTs (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Motor control deficits are evident in rowers with NSLBP. Addressing these deficits is critical for reducing pain risk and improving performance. Keywords: Motor Control Deficit, Low Back Pain, Rowing, Athletes, Muscle recruitment.

Keywords