Ultrasound Evaluation of the Combined Effects of Thoracolumbar Fascia Injury and Movement Restriction in a Porcine Model

PLoS ONE, 2016 · DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0147393 · Published: January 28, 2016

Pain Management Veterinary Medicine Musculoskeletal Medicine

Simple Explanation

This study investigates how back pain develops after injuries. Researchers used pigs to mimic human back issues, combining a fascia injury with restricted movement. They measured changes in the fascia using ultrasound. The study found that injury alone thickened the fascia and reduced its mobility. Restricted movement alone only reduced mobility. Combining both had the worst effect on fascia mobility. These results suggest that even healed back injuries can affect fascia mobility, especially when movement is limited. This may explain why some people develop chronic back pain after a sprain.

Study Duration

8 weeks

Participants

20 castrated male domestic swine

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Injury alone caused an increase in fascia thickness and a decrease in shear strain on the non-injured side.
2
Movement restriction alone decreased shear strain on the non-hobble side but did not change fascia thickness.
3
The combination of injury plus movement restriction had additive effects on reducing fascia mobility.

Research Summary

The study used a porcine model to test the effects of thoracolumbar fascia injury and movement restriction on fascia thickness and mobility. Injury alone increased fascia thickness and decreased shear strain, while movement restriction alone decreased shear strain. The combination had additive effects. The findings suggest that fascia injuries, even when healed, can affect fascia mobility, especially with restricted movement, potentially contributing to chronic low back pain.

Practical Implications

Understanding LBP Pathophysiology

The study provides insights into the pathophysiology of chronic low back pain, suggesting that fascia injuries and movement restriction can lead to changes in fascia structure and function.

Potential Diagnostic Tool

Ultrasound may be a useful tool for assessing fascia abnormalities in patients with low back pain, potentially aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning.

Rehabilitation Strategies

The findings suggest that interventions aimed at restoring fascia mobility and promoting movement may be beneficial for managing chronic low back pain, especially after an injury.

Study Limitations

1
Quadruped posture of pigs compared to biped posture of humans
2
Shorter study period (2 months) compared to the duration of LBP in human studies (greater than 12 months).
3
Measurements were made 10 minutes post-mortem in pigs

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