Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MSc)

Department

Kinesiology and Physical Education

Faculty/School

Faculty of Science

First Advisor

Dr. Diane Gregory

Advisor Role

Supervisor

Abstract

The current study examined potential benefits of intermittent, short-term periods of full trunk flexion on the development of low back pain (LBP) over two hours of standing. Sixteen participants completed a 2-hour standing protocol, on two separate days. On one day, participants stood statically for 2 hours; on the other day participants bent forward to full spine flexion for 5 seconds every 15-minutes. During both protocols, participants reported LBP using a 100mm visual analogue scale every 15-minutes. During the flexion trials, erector spinae muscle activation was monitored. Ultimately, intermittent trunk flexion reduced LBP by 36% (10mm) at the end of a 2-hour period of standing. Further, muscle quieting was observed in 91% of the flexion trials indicating that periods of rest occurred which may have contributed to the reduction in LBP observed. Since flexion periods do not require any aids, they can be performed in most workplaces thereby increasing applicability.

Convocation Year

2015

Convocation Season

Fall

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