Comparison of postural control, balance performance, mobility, physical activity, fall and fear of falling between elderly people with and without non-specific low back pain

Objective: The aim of the study was to compare postural control, balance performance, mobility, physical activity, fall and fear of falling between elderly people with and without non-specific low back pain (NSLBP). Method: A total of sixty seven individuals including thirty three patients with NSLBP (Mean age: 71,60±4,32 years) and thirty four individuals without low back pain (Mean age: 71,58±5,06 years), participated in the study. Patients' pain intensity and disability levels were evaluated with Visual Analog Scale and Oswestry Disability Index, respectively. Postural control and risk of falling were measured with Biodex Balance Master SD. Participants' balance performance, mobility and physical activity levels and fear of falling were evaluated with Functional Reach Test (FRT), Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), International Physical Activity Questionnare (IPAQ)- Short Form and Fall Efficiacy Scale-International (FES-I), respectively. Results: All parameters of Static Postural Stability Test (Overall (p=0,001), Anteroposterior (p=0,001), Mediolateral (p=0,011)) were found statistically higher in NSLBP group. There were no differences in Dynamic Postural Stability Test and Modified Clinical Test of Sensory İntegration on Balance. While FRT score (p=0,001) and IPAQ score (p=0,029) were found statistically lower in NSLBP group, TUG duration (p=0,001) and FES-I score (p=0,003) was found statistically higher. Conclusion: Static postural stability, balance performance, mobility, physical activity, and fear of falling have been found to be affected in older people with non-specific low back pain. It is important to consideration of NSLBP besides the negative changes that are occurring in elderly people, at planning and performing of physiotherapy programs.