Validation of the Movement System Impairment-based Classification Model for Females Susceptible to Low Back Pain

Based on the kinesiopathologic concept of movement, the corrective strategies targeting the altered movement and postural patterns can prevent the onset of musculoskeletal pains. Before planning any measure, the specialists need an accurate identification of movement and postural impairments predisposing the individual to a specific musculoskeletal pain. There are conflicting results regarding the effectiveness of a specific corrective intervention for the prevention of low back pain (LBP). There is a classification system named movement system impairment (MSI) developed by Sahrmann. No previous study has been conducted to validate this system for preventive measures of LBP. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the construct validity of this model in females susceptible to LBP. 

 In this study, 250 females aged 18-75 with transient LBP (based on a VAS score >10 during a 30-min prolonged standing procedure), were examined by two corrective exercise specialists. The principal component analysis (PCA) was used to derive proposed LBP categories. Factor loadings in the component matrix were assessed to identify the factors for each component. Five configured components were compared with the five LBP categories proposed by the MSI 

The five derived components were extension-rotation, flexion-rotation, flexion, rotation and extension-rotation. These five extracted components explained 87% of the total cumulative variance, equivalent to five MSI-based LBP categories.

 The MSI is a valid classification tool for preventive measures against LBP in females. Specialists can use this model for identification of females susceptible to movement and postural impairments, and take a positive step towards preventing LBP by modifying these impairments before the onset of pain.