Prevalence of Quadratus Lumborum Muscle Tightness-Induced Low Back Pain and Its Association in the Second Trimester of Pregnancy: A Comprehensive Survey Study Quadratus Lumborum Tightness and LBP in Pregnancy
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Abstract
Background: Pregnancy is associated with various physiological and biomechanical changes that increase the risk of low back pain (LBP), often attributed to compensatory muscle tightness. Quadratus lumborum muscle tightness is a common yet under-recognized cause of LBP during pregnancy.
Objective: To determine the prevalence of quadratus lumborum muscle tightness-induced LBP and its association with low back pain in the second trimester of pregnancy.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 78 pregnant females in their second trimester, recruited from Madina Teaching Hospital, Allied Hospital, and Chinniot General Hospital, Faisalabad. Quadratus lumborum tightness was assessed through goniometric measurements and clinical tests. Pain intensity was evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Chi-square test was used to establish associations, and data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.
Results: Out of 78 participants, 75 (96.2%) reported LBP, with 61.5% experiencing pain during walking and 56.4% during stair climbing. A significant association was found between quadratus lumborum muscle tightness and LBP (p=0.02).
Conclusion: The prevalence of quadratus lumborum muscle tightness-induced LBP is high in the second trimester of pregnancy. Early interventions targeting this muscle group could reduce the burden of LBP.
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