Meta-Analysis of Integrated Therapeutic Methods in Noninvasive Lower Back Pain Therapy (LBP): The Role of Interdisciplinary Functional Diagnostics

Abstract

Introduction. Lower back pain (LBP) is almost a problem of civilizations. Quite often, it is a consequence of many years of disturbed distribution of tension within the human body caused by local conditions (injuries, hernias, stenoses, spondylolisthesis, cancer, etc.), global factors (postural defects, structural integration disorders, lifestyle, type of activity, etc.), or systemic diseases (connective tissue, inflammation, tumours, abdominal aneurysm, and kidney diseases, including urolithiasis, endometriosis, and prostatitis). Therefore, LBP rehabilitation requires the use of integrated therapeutic methods, combining the competences of interdisciplinary teams, both in the process of diagnosis and treatment. Aim of the Study. Given the above, the authors of the article conducted meta-analysis of the literature in terms of integrated therapeutic methods, indicating the techniques focused on a holistic approach to the patient. The aim of the article is to provide the reader with comprehensive knowledge about treating LBP using noninterventional methods. Material and Methods. An extensive search for the materials was conducted online using PubMed, the Cochrane database, and Embase. The most common noninterventional methods have been described, as well as the most relevantly updated and previously referenced treatment of LBP. The authors also proposed noninvasive (measurable) diagnostic procedures for the functional assessment of the musculoskeletal system, including initial, systematic, and cross-sectional control. All figures and images have been prepared by the authors and are their property.

Results

This review article goes beyond combining a detailed description of each procedure with full references, as well as a comprehensive discussion of this very complex and troublesome problem.

Conclusions

Lower back pain is a serious health problem, and this review article will help educate physicians and physiotherapists dealing with LBP in the options of evidence-based treatment. Ultimately, the article introduces and postulates the need to systematize therapeutic procedures in LBP therapy, with a long-term perspective.

1. Introduction

Lower back pain of mechanical origin is caused by injuries and/or degenerative conditions of the vertebrae and intervertebral discs and by the faulty distribution of forces within the soft tissues. The most frequently diagnosed mechanical problems are disc herniation (including disc fractures and their dehydration), compression fatigue fractures, and acute traumatic injuries [1]. In its chronic form, LBP affects over 20% of the global population; 24–80% of patients have a relapse of pain in the first year [2–5]. Despite the fact that 31% of patients with LBP demonstrate an improvement within 6 months, the recurrence of moderate pain is reported in 33% of cases, and acute pain is observed in 15% of sufferers within 1-2 years [6–8]. Recent studies indicate that people with LBP experience pain and the related disability longer than patients suffering from pain in the course of other diseases [9–11]. Nonspecific back pain is increasingly affecting young people, and this can be an important determinant of LBP in adulthood [12–15]. The necessity of systematization of therapeutic procedures results from the fact that back pain causes motor disability, thereby significantly reducing (and even temporarily disabling) motor activity with the consequent absence from work, particularly in the countries with a highly developed market economy [1, 16–18]. It has also been found that LBP, caused, for example, by discopathy, recurs after surgery [19–21]. LBP is a problem of civilizations, with epidemiological data clearly indicating the growth of the population affected by the condition. Therefore, it is important to take systematic actions in two areas:

1. Differentiation of the problem, which should include both initial diagnosis and regular monitoring

2. Systematizing nonsurgical and nonpharmacological therapeutic procedures, with particular emphasis on the roles played by interdisciplinary teams

Given the different aetiologies of LBP and severe pain, interdisciplinary teams, including doctors (imaging diagnostics and pharmacotherapy), physiotherapists, specialists in psychosomatic diseases (therapy of anxiety syndromes accompanied by chronic pain), dieticians (lifestyle, maintenance of normal body weight, and elimination of visceral problems, including intolerance, intoxication, and the presence of parasites), should be involved in the therapeutic process of back pain syndrome [22–29]. Scientific and research literature demonstrates, however, that evidence for multidisciplinary rehabilitation is rare, and physical and behavioural procedures are limited [30]. The impact of biopsychosocial factors on LBP, compared to biomechanical influences, is an important developmental aspect in research and scientific work [31]. Biological treatment is also in an experimental phase [32, 33].

The results of scientific and research studies are consistent in the conclusion that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs combined with muscle relaxants are effective methods of treating LBP [34–37]. Most literature sources indicate that staying in the reclined position has no effect on acute pain [38–43]. It has been repeatedly noted that the following factors play a role in the prevention of acute pain with mild aetiology:

1. Education of people with LBP in methods to avoid overloading

2. Moderate physical activity, using decompression movements in a position without pain or a significantly reduced pain, relaxing and stabilizing structures

3. Return to normal activity [34, 35, 37, 39]

However, given the fact that, in most cases (i.e., 70% of people with LBP) complaints are caused by the dysfunction of myofascial structures, the most important scientific research issue should be the systematization of manual therapy (MT) procedures. The more so (apart from trauma, fatigue fractures, postural defects, and systemic diseases) in faulty force migration, arising from functional structure shortcuts, increased tension, fascia densification and tensegration disorders, and so on, are the primary causes of discopathy and degenerative conditions of the spine [1, 3, 44, 45].

This approach forces MT specialists to plan therapeutic procedures in a systematic way, starting from actions aimed at eliminating acute pain and ending with structural integration, reduction of abnormal compression forces, and consequently stabilization. Given that the therapeutic procedure (especially in the case of chronic pain) can be extended and periodic exacerbations are possible, in addition to imaging examinations, regular objectified monitoring of the patient's condition is necessary, the more so because there is also a literature discrepancy as to the use of imaging examinations [46–49]. According to guidelines, imaging diagnostics is not recommended in the following cases:

1. Pain lasting less than six weeks: no red flags, the patient with LBP not having neurological symptoms (pain or numbness of the lower limbs, sciatica, and so on), and osteomyelitis is not suspected

Red flags include trauma, sudden weight loss, cancer, the long-term use of steroid drugs, increasing neurological symptoms, urinary incontinence, age over 70, and osteoporosis. A prolonged treatment lasting over 12 months is also a red flag [3, 50, 51]. Given the huge role of conservative therapy in LBP, the procedures used in the treatment of red flags should take into account the role of extended medical history taken by manual therapy specialists, educators, physiotherapists, etc. [52].

However, an imaging examination is the most important and objective diagnostic method to differentiate the problem of back pain of the spinal origin. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is applied to assess the origin of neurological and soft tissue pain, while X-ray (X-ray/RTG) is used to evaluate posttraumatic bone and joint changes as well as abnormalities in the structure of the bones and their arrangement. Unfortunately, due to invasiveness and economic aspects, imaging examinations cannot be used to monitor the therapy. They are also not applicable in functional therapy and re-education of movement patterns, motor activity, etc.

A primary therapeutic task in LBP is to educate the patient on pain management. In addition to education on rest and physical activity, neurophysiological education is very important. This is a cognitive-behavioural intervention to provide knowledge of neurophysiology and neuroscience of pain in order to change beliefs about illness, disability, and above all adaptation to pain [53–55]. The management should differentiate the origin of pain, both in terms of mechanical (motor) stimulus and the protective (nociceptive) mechanism [56–60]. A literature study indicates a significant interaction between treatment conditions and the intensity of LBP, and thus physical fitness. Educational activities should be conducted in a clear and concise manner, adjusted to the intelligence, education, and expectations of patients. Particular emphasis should be put on the ability of patients to act independently in case of exacerbations. The family also plays an important role in the treatment [61–63].

1.1. Purpose of Meta-Analysis

The aim of the study is to review the literature on integrated therapeutic techniques used to treat LBP as well as to indicate the methods of postural and functional diagnostics and to provide the reader with comprehensive knowledge of the treatment of LBP using noninterventional methods.

2. Methodology of Meta-Analysis

The literature reviewed in this study covers the period of 21 years (1998–2019). The extensive search for materials was conducted online using PubMed, the Cochrane database, and Embase. The results were evaluated and checked for correct qualification, indicating and confirming the importance of combining different therapeutic methods of LBP and the relevance of interdisciplinary teams to be included in the LBP diagnosis and rehabilitation. The analysis covered 175 articles selected from a group of 1363 publications. All figures and images have been prepared by the authors and are their property.

3. The Merits of the Issue

3.1. Manual Therapy in LBP

Various therapeutic methods are used in the management of patients with LBP. However, we should pay attention to the procedures treating the functionality of the musculoskeletal system in a holistic way. The therapy based on structural integration is called tensegration. A role of the deep fascia in the aetiology of LBP was already indicated in 1939 [64]; modern medicine seeks one of the main causes of nontraumatic back pain in this structure [65–69]. Excessive tension of the tissues creates a damaging stimulus that is distributed within the human body in a linear manner [69–71]. Hence, pain may appear in a place distant from the site where the pain stimulus originally occurred [68, 72–75]. This indicates that the restoration of tension in anatomical tapes is essential for the process of rehabilitation, pain therapy, and restoring structural balance. As a result, greater strength is generated, and loads are transferred with the consequent shock absorption and the ability to support the muscles stabilizing the spine, which are closely connected with a given fascia tape [68, 76].

The concept of fascial tapes allows the connections between the myofascial lines causing dysfunction of the body posture to be determined, thereby including them in therapeutic procedures. This has a huge impact on the effectiveness of the therapy. The holistic approach to the fascial system is based on the current scientific research on fascial anatomy. A review of literature in this area clearly reveals that few authors treat fascia as a three-dimensional system [76–78]. Nevertheless, it has been repeatedly pointed out that manual therapy based on the concept of tensegration (structural integration) is one of the most effective methods of balancing tensions within the motor organ in LBP therapy [79, 80].

Osteopathic techniques: osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), used in patients with LBP, are integrated therapeutic methods taking into account various manual techniques to improve the functionality of the musculoskeletal structures and the entire body (structural and organ integration). Holistic therapy is based on, among other things, manipulation (OMT), including spine manipulation, muscle energy techniques (MET), visceral techniques, and exercises [81, 82]. It has been shown that OMT has a clinically significant effect on reducing pain and improving the functionality of the spine, lower limbs, and pelvis, both in patients with acute and chronic nonspecific LBP (including pregnant and postpartum women) [38].

Muscle energy technique (MET): muscle energy techniques have several applications. They can be used to lengthen the shortened muscle, strengthen the weakened muscle, and reduce local swelling and passive congestion. The technique is usually applied as part of a therapeutic complex used in acute LBP [83–85]. It also brings good results in hypomobility of the sacroiliac joints which affects LBP patients [86, 87].

High velocity low amplitude (HVLA) is a technique of short-lever manipulation of the joints that acts subtly and precisely. The method is based on unblocking the joint by applying a low amplitude and high velocity force. Previous reports provided little significant evidence that spine manipulation was better than other treatments for chronic low back pain [88, 89]. However, recent reviews suggest that spine manipulation is an option of pain management, though its effectiveness may vary depending on the duration of symptoms and the method of treatment [90, 91]. In the following example, manipulative and osteopathic techniques (HVLA) were combined with the SNAG techniques according to Mulligan's concept. This was done to improve the glide of the joints with the muscle function, and this distinguishes Mulligan's concept from other manipulative methods.

AKA-H (Arthrokinematic Approach-Hakata) method of manual therapy, developed by Setsuo Hakata in 1979, is used to treat abnormalities in joint movement. Scientific literature indicates that the effectiveness of the AKA-H method has been proven, both in the case of acute low back pain (as S. Hakata did), joint contractures, neuromuscular retraining, as well as in the case of chronic pain. The AKA-H method primarily includes techniques of neuromobilization and joint mobilization, including two procedures: manual therapy and physical therapy [92–98].

Mulligan's concept is another method complementing the therapy of LBP. SNAG (sustained natural apophyseal glide) is one of the most important MWM techniques. It involves the use of a passive glide on the vertebra and active movement made by the patient. The glide occurs in the articular plane, and the movement is performed in loading [99]. The reports indicate that the addition of the SNAG technique to other rehabilitation methods improves the range of spinal mobility and reduces pain [100–102]. The literature also indicates that compared to incorrect mobilization, the SNAG technique did not bring better results in terms of mobility [99]. According to the authors, no comment can be made on the results of this study because the technique was performed in asymptomatic patients. Konstantinou et al. demonstrated that MWM therapy significantly increased the average range of spinal motion compared to patients with LBP receiving a placebo [103].

Therapy of patients with LBP often requires the use of neuromobilization which is largely overlooked in various MT methods.

Neuromobilization allows nerve shifting in relation to the structures surrounding the neuronal tissue to be restored. It brings back the possibilities of stretching and tightening of the nerves. The technique should be used as early as possible when there are no irreversible morphological changes; it should cover all tissues affected by the pathology [104, 105].

3.2. Other Methods Used in LBP Therapy

Acupuncture is a nonspecific therapy having a large spectrum of indications. It activates central brain pathways, thus inhibiting pain reactions [106]. Research and scientific literature studies indicate the effectiveness of acupuncture in improving the function and relieving pain in LBP patients, but the results vary individually [107]. A review of studies gives no conclusive evidence that acupuncture is more effective in the treatment of chronic pain than a placebo or sham acupuncture [108–111]. The evidence for acupuncture effectiveness in LBP also remains controversial [112]. On the one hand, unambiguous points (meridians) relating to LBP were determined, and the number of people taking advantage of acupuncture has increased significantly in recent years [113–115]. On the other hand, similar to assessing the effectiveness of manual therapy, there are controversies over the methodology of scientific works, unjustified comparison of the study population [116, 117].

Kinesio Taping (KT) is a relatively new method, supporting the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, including LBP. KT is not only sensory but also a proprioreceptive interaction. An appropriate application, adjusted to the patient's needs, allows the regeneration of the places affected by the disease and improves microcirculation. Moreover, the method has a positive effect on the normalization of the fascial system tension and a reduction of pressure on pain receptors. This results in folding the skin surface and increasing the space between the skin and fascia [118, 119]. The method improves blood and lymph microcirculation and activates self-healing processes. The literature indicates that the use of KT reduces pain and instability of the spine [120–122].

3.3. Rehabilitation Exercises and Autotherapy

The scientific literature describes many exercise methods used to reduce and prevent LBP [123, 124]. They are applicable both in acute pain, in autotherapy, and in stabilization of the musculoskeletal system.

The McKenzie method is designed to reduce the intensity of acute and chronic pain of the lower back and belongs to treatment systems focused on maintaining proper posture and consists of the repetition of the same movements. The McKenzie protocol is one of the most common recognized physiotherapeutic concepts used in patients with LBP [125, 126]. However, this method proved to be less effective compared to local stabilization training of the lumbar spine [127].

Yoga is a therapeutic method that conceptually combines psychoemotional and structural balance. It is a collection of many positions that supplement the therapy (stabilization) in LBP patients with both acute and chronic pain in a very positive way [128–130]. It also has a positive effect on respiratory functions and consequently a direct impact on the stability of the spine [131, 132].

3.4. Stabilization of the Patient's Condition and Stabilization Exercises

In recent years, the stability of the trunk (spinal cord) has been defined as the ability to maintain a stable neutral position of the spine. The global muscles participate in movements of the torso, while local muscles play an important stabilizing role. Stabilization training in patients with LBP reduces pain and instability as well as preventing relapses [133–135]. Hides et al. described how cricket players suffering from LBP were subjected to stability training (multifidus, transverse abdominal and pelvic floor muscles) with the consequent decrease in pain [136]. According to the literature, an ultrasound observation detected no advantage of stabilization exercises over general exercises [137]. There is also an opposing conclusion that stabilization exercises are more effective than standard training [138]. However, we must remember that the therapy aimed at unblocking the joints by correcting the muscle tension is complex. Searching for the best exercises, focused on TrA (transversus abdomnis) and MF (multifidus), should be done under ultrasound guidance. This is due to the fact that the correct contraction is a key to individual and personalized stabilization training, where proper mobility of the joints is required. It is easy to monitor therapeutic progress in this regard by measuring the thickness of a given muscle in an ultrasound, as indicated in the literature [139–141]. In special cases, an ultrasound can be used to evaluate the progress of therapy.

Even though the costs of magnetic resonance imaging, surgery, and corticosteroids have increased significantly, no improvement has been observed in the incidence of LBP and the consequent disability [48, 142]. Each LBP assessment procedure should begin with the taking of a detailed medical history and performing a physical examination, including identification of red flags. An MRI is one of the most useful diagnostic tools to evaluate the condition of the intervertebral discs that have a significant effect on kinematic patterns [143].

The physical examinations are used mainly to assess red flags, the quality of pain, and neurological symptoms and to perform visual evaluation of the quality of movement [144]. Given the relationship between functional disorders and nonspecific back pain, the authors believe in the importance of diagnostic procedures to evaluate the quality of movement and in the need to conduct scientific and research works in this area. Particularly, in the era of time-space research technologies, procedures should be focused on the implementation of measurable, objective, noninvasive, and economic rehabilitation methods [145–147].

3.5. Evidence for the Considerations above

A reference to postural and functional diagnostics and integrated therapeutic procedures on the example of a 28-year-old patient who has suffered from pain since the age of 15. The medical history revealed that such an intensive acute LBP did not appear until the last two weeks. A magnetic resonance imaging visualized class IV changes in the intervertebral discs (Figures 1(a) and 1(b)) (according to the classification by Pfirrmann et al.) [148] in L3/L4 (protrusion) and L4/L5 (extrusion) (Figures 1(a) and 1(b)). After therapy lasting more than 8 months both results should be qualified as a protrusion, without migration into the spinal canal or pressure on the meningeal sac. According to the classification, the modic changes can be defined as type I, which is an important positive prognostic factor justifying the use of noninvasive therapeutic methods. However, at the same time, scientific literature indicates that, in the old age, there is a high risk of transformation of a type-I modic change into a type-II modic change [149, 150]. The incidence of LBP in modal changes ranges from 18% to 62% [151, 152]. Type II modic changes are the most common in segments L4/L5 and L5/S1, and disk degeneration is an important risk factor [125, 153, 154]. The condition of the disc is influenced by the supply of nutrients to the cartilaginous endplate that may be disturbed by biomechanical abnormalities in the lumbar region [153].

Figure 1.

MRI. Date of examination: (a) 4^th December 2018 and (b) 20^th September 2019.

Given that the condition of the intervertebral discs is also influenced by spine kinematics, in addition to the evaluation of the disc itself, postural parameters and functionality of the musculoskeletal system are important diagnostic aspects. The initial evaluation and systematic monitoring of the patient were supplemented with computer diagnostic methods using the BIOMECH Studio program applied at each therapeutic visit. This aspect is relevant to the functional assessment, making examination results objective and measurable. The technique is also used to monitor the progress of rehabilitation procedures.

The first stage of the therapeutic process using manual therapy (MT) was pain relief. For this purpose, the techniques were applied to restore tension in individual anatomical chains (according to the concept of Anatomy Trains). The aim of the therapy was to integrate tensions within the myofascial structures in order to restore body balance and, as a consequence, corrective and stabilizing forces. At the same time, respiratory education and isolation of tonic deep muscle contraction were carried out with the patient lying on the side (this position was chosen for the examination because lying on the back caused pain). In the first stage of the therapy, the use of osteopathic craniosacral therapy was impossible due to pain in the position suitable for manipulation and intense pain-related anxiety. Instead, functional mobilization of structures was performed according to Mulligan, which gradually eliminated pain and increased the range of motion in the lumbar region (the examinations performed in painless positions or until pain occurred). Manual therapy also included neuromobilization. After each visit, the patient had breathing training (autotherapy) carried out at home and at work. Kinesio Taping was also applied after the therapy (the type of application was chosen depending on the patient's needs). This stage lasted three months, and there were exacerbations of pain caused by the lack of the patient's compliance to perform exercises regularly and due to the intensification of professional activities.

The second stage of the therapy was carried out in the absence of pain or/and its full control. The stage was focused on increasing mobility in the sacroiliac joints and facet joints of the spine. The HVLA osteopathic technique was used to precisely operate on the short lever and, consequently, avoid the need to involve other joints. At the same time, MET procedures were implemented, activating the work of the hip rotators. It was aimed at stabilizing the sacroiliac joints and increasing the range of motion in the hip joints. Mulligan mobilization was carried out throughout the entire stages I and II. The patient mastered deep muscle coordination with maintained respiration while standing. Autotherapy was enriched with education of the patient on the exercises using limbs. Their goal was to integrate the superficial muscles with cocontraction of the deep muscles. Kinesio Taping was also applied in order to maintain the effects of therapy. This stage lasted three months.

The third stage of the therapy consisted of postural and dynamic muscle training. The examination of the posture revealed numerous disorders, including pelvic drooping on one side, anterior tilt of the pelvis, functional knee and foot valgity, and first degree of longitudinal flat feet and transverse flat feet. Stabilization exercises have been enriched with training on unstable ground.

After this stage, the patient performed exercises aimed at learning the correct (ergonomic) gait pattern and relief positions (decompression). She also received orthopaedic insoles designed especially for her needs, to eliminate structural changes in the feet and knees and helping to maintain the correct gait pattern. The personalized orthopaedic insoles supported subsequent phases of gait, taking into account the patient's mobility; dynamic elements allowed for shock absorption in each phase of the gait.

The patient attended therapeutic visits for 8 months, with a frequency of once a week and a duration of 45 minutes. Diagnostic procedures were implemented at every stage of the therapy (at each visit). They included photogrammetric and videogrammetric methods implemented during the pedobarographic assessment performed while standing and walking (duration of static analysis was 20 seconds, and gait examination lasted for about 1–1.5 minutes). The examination of the range of motion and pelvic kinematics evaluation lasted approximately 3–5 min. The functionality examinations proposed by the authors are noninvasive and economical (inexpensive).

Procedure I: photogrammetry and videogrammetry for anthropometry and physical examination (Figure 2).

Figure 2.

A photogrammetric examination performed using the BIOMECH Studio software.

Procedure II: the examination of the range of motion in the joints using the WIVA Science® sensory-motor sensor. The examination was used to evaluate the functionality of structures as well as to regularly monitor the effectiveness of therapeutic methods. A user-friendly interface of the BIOMECH Studio software is also an important psychoemotional aspect for the patient, as the progress of the therapy can be observed on the TV screen while performing exercises (Figure 3).

Figure 3.

The exemplary result of the range of motion in the lumbar part, flexion/extension, lateral flexion to the left/right, and rotation to the left/right: the result (a) before a therapeutic session and (b) after a therapeutic session.

Before and after each therapy, diagnostic procedures were implemented to assess the range of motion of the spine and hip joints. They allowed for the evaluation of the therapeutic process and effectiveness of the therapeutic method (i.e., maintaining the effects of therapy during a week break between each visit). An exemplary report is presented in Table 1.

Table 1.

The report generated before and after a therapeutic session.

Movement	Result before a therapeutic session	Result after a therapeutic session
Spinal flexion of the lumbar part	75.0	102.5
Spine extension of the lumbar part	8.0	24.2
Lateral bend of the spine to the left	23.7	21.8
Lateral bend of the spine to the right	26	23.7
Spinal rotation to the left in the lumbar part	19.7	31.1
Spinal rotation to the right in the lumbar part	11.6	36.9
Abduction in the left hip joint	27.8	41.5
Adduction in the left hip joint	26.7	26.5
Abduction in the right hip joint	27.9	35.2
Adduction in the right hip joint	24.5	25.3
Flexion in the left hip	79	96.9
Flexion in the right hip	81.3	103.6
Internal rotation in the left hip joint	25.7	25.1
External rotation in the left hip joint	46.9	59.5
Internal rotation in the right hip joint	27.4	39
External rotation in the right hip joint	45.8	54
Extension in the left hip joint	21.2	29.5
Extension in the right hip joint	15.4	29.5

The evaluation of pelvic kinematics and gait was also carried out using the Wiva Science® sensory-motor sensor. Pelvic mobility plays a pivotal role in maintaining balance of the neuromuscular system [155]. It is closely correlated with the quality of gait, mainly space-time parameters, which has been repeatedly demonstrated in physiological [156–158] and pathological gait [159–162]. The examination using the sensor allowed for the observation of the pelvis during walking and standing (including pelvic tilt angle) as well as for the analysis of pelvic movements in the three planes: anterior/posterior tilt, falling and lifting of the iliac alae, and rotation (Figures 4(a) and 4(b)).

Figure 4.

The exemplary result of pelvic parameters during standing and pelvic kinematics. The examination was performed at a therapeutic session: the result (a) before a therapeutic session and (b) after a therapeutic session.

The examination of the angle of lumbar lordosis under static and dynamic conditions is of great importance, mainly due to the close correlation between LBP and abnormalities of lumbar lordosis [163].

The exemplary results of gait analysis before and after therapy are shown in Figures 5(a) and 5(b).

Figure 5.

The exemplary result of a gait examination (a) before and (b) after a therapeutic session.

The examination of postural functionality parameters can also be carried out using pedobarography, which allows for the static and dynamic examination from a perspective of the feet. The relationship between the function of the feet and LBP has been repeatedly indicated in the scientific and research literature [164]. A pedobarographic examination, which is a diagnostic method for the evaluation of balance (static test), is widely used in the assessment of the functional stability of the musculoskeletal system, particularly the body's ability to carry loads (static structural integration) and compensation (Figure 6) [165–169]. Stabilometry is an important aspect of functional diagnostics of the musculoskeletal system, and its inclusion in one device (i.e., in a pedobarograph) significantly reduces the cost of biomechanical diagnostics [170–177].

Figure 6.

The exemplary result of a balance (stabilometric) examination performed at a therapeutic session.

Pedobarography also allows for the registration of the values of unit pressure, gait determinants, and distribution of pressure on the feet, making it applicable in the activities aimed at the early detection of postural threats [178]. Hence, the wide application of pedobarography includes orthopaedics, traumatology, rehabilitation of the musculoskeletal system, and in the assessment of functional disorders in spinal overload diseases. A pedobarographic examination also allows for the postural evaluation in the context of structural integration, i.e., testing the distribution of pressure on the right and left side and in an antero-posterior view. In patients with LBP, especially in the phase of pain, we observe compensatory disorders, causing the centre of gravity to be shifted to one limb, which in chronic conditions leads to postural overload disorders. The exemplary result of the general analysis of pressure distribution in the patient's body is presented in Figures 7(a) and 7(b) (the result obtained before and after a therapeutic session).

Figure 7.

The exemplary result of the postural assessment of pressure distribution, in lateral and antero-posterior view measured (a) before and (b) after a therapeutic session.

Pedobarography also allows for the assessment of the mutual relationship between the feet, angles of foot abduction, and proportions, which is presented in Figures 8(a) and 8(b). In the practice of the functional and postural assessment, the result should (and can) be correlated with the outcomes of hip joint mobility and the position of the lower extremities in the transverse plane. In line with the assumptions of structural integration, the result correlates with the position of the pelvis and lumbar lordosis.

Figure 8.

The exemplary result of assessing the mutual relationship between the feet and the proportions of the feet.

A pedobarographic examination can also be used to evaluate the foot arch, both while standing (Figures 9(a) and 9(b)) and walking (Figures 10(a) and 10(b)).

Figure 9.

The exemplary result of the foot arch examination (a) before and (b) after a therapeutic session (the examination is performed while standing).

Figure 10.

The exemplary result of the foot arch examination (AI index) (a) before and (b) after a therapeutic session (the examination is performed while walking).

The condition of the foot arch is of key importance to shock absorption during locomotion. The foot arch is the key to shock absorption during locomotion. A pedobarographic examination also allows for the observation of forces and time-space parameters during locomotion (Figures 11(a) and 11(b)).

Figure 11.

The exemplary graph presenting the results of strength distribution and time-space parameters during walking, measured at a therapeutic session.

An important issue is also the function of changing the position from standing on the foot to standing on the toes (Figures 12(a) and 12(b)) which closely correlates with the mobility in the hips during walking and running, mainly due to supination and pronation of the foot.

Figure 12.

The exemplary result of the assessment of foot progression, carried out (a) before and (b) after a therapeutic session.

4. Conclusions

1. The results of rehabilitation in LBP patients depend on comprehensively planned actions taken during treatment. The rehabilitation programme should include the knowledge of therapeutic methods used in specific functional disorders and give a chance to continue the exercises at home.

2. Given the variable course and diverse aetiology of LBP, therapeutic procedures should be based on holistic locomotor therapy.

3. The evaluation of therapy effectiveness ought to include a detailed functional analysis conducted at each stage of the treatment. Noninvasive computer diagnostic methods for biomechanical assessment of the musculoskeletal system should be recommended.

4. Vague results of the evaluation of the effectiveness of a given LBP manual therapy favour the use of a combination of methods as the application of one technique can eliminate just one of the restrictions.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest.