Low Back Pain and Hamstring-to-Quadriceps Strength Ratio in Military Personnel

Association Between Low Back Pain and Hamstring-to-Quadriceps Strength Ratio in Lithuanian National Defence Volunteer Forces Personnel

The aim of this study was to determine the association between low back pain and the strength of knee flexor and extensor muscles in Lithuanian National Defence Volunteer Forces personnel.

This cross-sectional study investigated the association between low back pain (LBP) and the hamstring-to-quadriceps (H/Q) strength ratio in personnel of the Lithuanian National Defence Volunteer Forces. Active-duty volunteers with and without LBP underwent isokinetic testing of knee flexor and extensor muscle strength using a Biodex System 4 Pro dynamometer at angular velocities of 60°/s and 120°/s. Hamstring strength, quadriceps strength, H/Q ratios, and inter-limb asymmetries were assessed to explore potential associations with low back pain in this military population.

Inclusion Criteria:

• The study participants consisted of a targeted population of Lithuanian National Defence Volunteer Forces personnel

Exclusion Criteria:

• Individuals with a clinically diagnosed low back pain disorder or acute episodes of low back pain were excluded