Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Musculoskeletal Disorders

Introduction: Low back pain (LBP) has a profound impact on occupational performance, competence, and quality of life (QoL). Reduced trunk muscle endurance can be a cause or a consequence of LBP. Few studies investigated the relationship between occupational performance, various dimensions of QoL, and trunk muscle endurance. Objective: the purpose of this study was to examine the correlation between trunk muscle endurance, occupational performance, and quality of life in physical therapists with non-specific LBP; and to examine the difference between genders. Methods: Ninety-seven physical therapists with non-specific LBP were recruited for this study. Their mean (±SD) age and BMI were 25.04 (± 2) years, and 24.57 (± 2.93) kg/m² respectively. Trunk muscle endurance was assessed using Modified Back Extensors test, Modified Flexion Endurance test, and Lateral Musculature test. A self-report Occupational Role Performance questionnaire (ORQ) was conducted to assess occupational performance. 36-Item Short Form Health Survey was used to assess quality of life. Results: There was a significant negative correlation between trunk muscle endurance times and ORQ. Trunk endurance was significantly positive correlated with overall quality of life. Trunk endurance times were significantly lower in females than in males. Scores of ORQ were significantly higher in females while there was a significant decrease in the quality of life scores of females compared with that of males

Issued also as CD