Proprioceptive weighting changes may explain differences in postural control performance. In addition, the respiratory movement has a disturbing effect on postural balance. Postural balance seems to be impaired in individuals with respiratory disorders. Besides the essential role of respiration, the diaphragm may also play an important role in the control of the trunk and postural balance. Deficits in proprioception are found in a subgroup of patients with low back pain. In addition, disorders of respiration have been identified as strongly related to low back pain.

The aim of the study is to clarify whether loading of the inspiratory muscles has a negative effect upon proprioceptive postural control in healthy individuals and individuals with recurrent low back pain.

Inclusion Criteria individuals with low back pain:

• Age: 18-45 years old
• At least 1 year of low back pain with/without referred pain in buttock/thigh
• At least 3 episodes of disabling low back pain
• At least a score of 20% on the Oswestry Disability Index
• Willingness to sign the informed consent

Inclusion Criteria healthy individuals:

• Age: 18-45 years old
• No history of low back pain
• A score of 0% on the Oswestry Disability Index
• Willingness to sign the informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of major trauma and/or major orthopedic surgery of the spine, the pelvis or the lower quadrant
• One of the following conditions: Parkinson, multiple sclerosis, stroke, history of vestibular disorder, respiratory disease, pregnancy
• Radicular symptoms
• Not Dutch-speaking
• Strong opioids
• Neck pain
• Smoking history

young flemish volunteers