New method evaluates bending stiffness during treatment for low back pain

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New method evaluates bending stiffness during treatment for low back

pain

20 May 2005 Medical News Today

This study develops a method of measuring the bending stiffness of

the spine when subjected to posteroanterior mobilization force, a

popular treatment for low back pain.

Mobilization force was applied to the lumbar spines of 20 healthy

participants while they were lying prone. Mobilization force and the

corresponding changes in spinal curvature were measured.

The change in spinal curvature was related to the mobilized load

applied.

Investigators suggest measuring the bending stiffness of the spine,

an indicator of its health and mobility, for the evaluation of

rehabilitation and guide a treatment plan.

VA Research Communications Service

http://www.vard.org