Examining Factors Influencing Thoracolumbar Mobility in Runners

Context: The presence of to is thoracolumbar (TL) mobility a significant aspect in the context of running. Most of the factors may be related to certain kinematic parameters of the lumbopelvic-hip complex during running. Objective: To compare the TL mobility of individuals at different running levels and sedentary individuals. Design: Cross-sectional. Participants: The first group consisted of 35 runners who had been running for the last two years (RTY) while the second group had 35 runners who had been running for the last six months (RSM). The third group had 35 sedentary individuals. Main Outcomes Measures: Sports-related and sociodemographic information was recorded. The Myoton device was used over the Latissimus Dorsi (LD) muscle on both dominant and nondominant sides to measure muscle tone (Hz), elasticity, and stiffness (N/m) values. Trunk flexibility and flexibility of lumbar extensor muscles were measured with tape measurement (cm). The trunk range of motion (ROM, ˚) was measured using goniometer. Thoracolumbar Fascia Length Test and Modified Schober Test were used for thoracolumbar (TLF) fascia flexibility. Analysis of variance was used for statistical analysis. SPSS version 17.0 was used for all statistical analyses. The primary outcome was defined as lumbar extensor tightness. Numeric data obtained from the subjects were presented as mean, standard deviation (mean±SD) and percentage (%). The primary outcome was defined as lumbar extensor tightness. The sample size for each group was calculated to be 30 with a power of 80% and a significance level of 0.05. Considering potential dropouts, 35 participants were included in each group. The groups were not homogenous. As a nonparametric test, the 'Kruskal-Wallis test' was employed for the three-group comparison. The Mann-Whitney U test was used for the two-group comparison. Statistical significance was set at P < .05.

Inclusion criteria

• The participants were within the age range of 30 to 45.

Exclusion criteria

• The history of lower extremity or lumbar-related surgery within the last year and a body mass index (BMI) exceeding the normal threshold of 24.5 kg/m².