Assessment of Spinal Stability

Neuromuscular Neutral Zones in Humans: A New Method to Assess Spinal Stability

The purpose of this study is to verify the existence of neuromuscular neutral zones(NNZs) in humans, and develop non-invasive techniques to measure intervertebral kinematics of the lumbar spine. The results will be used to accurately quantify NNZs in humans, and provide a foundation for clinical trials on low back pain patients using this methodology.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 21-45 years of age - typical working age in physically demanding jobs
• no history of low back injury or musculoskeletal disorder in the past one year
• any activity history: sedentary, active, or non-athletic, and 4) any ethnic background or race
• body mass index score less than 30

Exclusion Criteria:

• Younger than 21 or older than 45 years old (range not relevant to majority of physical labor force)
• previous injury, disorder, or illness related to the low back
• professional athletes
• professional workers engaged in physical labor (e.g., roofers, loaders/unloaders in warehouses, tile/concrete layers, etc.)
• pregnancy