The relationship between lumbar core stability, neck pain, functional disability, and forward head posture in patients with chronic nonspecific neck pain: a cross-sectional study

Hend Wageh, Bassem Galal Eldein El Nahass, Mona Mohamed Ibrahim

Hend Wageh, Bassem Galal Eldein El Nahass, Mona Mohamed Ibrahim – The relationship between lumbar core stability, neck pain, functional disability, and forward head posture in patients with chronic nonspecific neck pain: a cross-sectional study –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(4); 179-186

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZGA431DA1D

Abstract
Background. Posture depends on coordinated spinal interactions between musculoskeletal and neuromuscular mechanisms to produce optimal function. Although the cervical and lumbar are biomechanically connected, the relationship between spinal core stability, endurance and posture in neck pain remains unclear.
Purpose. To investigate the correlation between lumbar core endurance, neck pain and function, forward head posture, and cervical activation and endurance in chronic nonspecific neck pain patients (CNSNP).
Methods. Sixty-six participants with CNSNP were recruited for this cross-sectional study. Plank tests evaluated core endurance. Cervical pain and function were assessed by VAS and Neck Disability Index. Forward head posture was evaluated by craniovertebral angle (CVA) and cervical endurance was assessed by craniocervical flexion test and neck flexor endurance tests.
Results. Significant moderate positive correlations were found between left plank endurance and both neck flexor endurance and CVA (r = 0.441, p < 0.001, r = 0.290, p = 0.018, respectively). A weak positive significant correlation was observed between trunk extension endurance and CVA (r = 0.288, p = 0.019).
Conclusion. Lateral and posterior core endurance appears to be associated with cervical posture and muscle performance, supporting the concept of regional interdependence. Incorporating trunk stability exercises may enhance rehabilitation outcomes in patients with FHP and chronic neck pain.
Key words
chronic neck pain, core stability, forward head posture, craniovertebral angle, trunk endurance
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Effect of backward walking versus home-based core program on pain and core function in non-specific low back pain: a randomized controlled trial

Alaa Amr Ahmed, Salam Mohamed Elhafez, Ahmed Salamah Yamani, Yassmin Essam Mohamed, Ayman Gouda Matar

Alaa Amr Ahmed, Salam Mohamed Elhafez, Ahmed Salamah Yamani, Yassmin Essam Mohamed, Ayman Gouda Matar – Effect of backward walking versus home-based core program on pain and core function in non-specific low back pain: a randomized controlled trial –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 430-438

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007DTPWI

Abstract
Purpose. This study aimed to investigate and compare the effect of backward walking (BW) and home-based core stabilization exercises (CSE) on core muscle endurance and pain in females with non-specific low back pain (NSLBP).
Materials and methods. Forty-five females with NSLBP were randomized into three equal groups: BW, CSE, and control. Core endurance was assessed using McGill’s core endurance tests (flexor endurance test, extensor endurance test, and lateral bridge tests on both sides). Pain was assessed using a visual analogue scale. Assessments were conducted at baseline and after six weeks of intervention.
Results. Compared to baseline assessment, a mixed-design MANOVA revealed significant improvement in all core endurance test times in the BW and CSE groups (P < 0.05), with no significant change in the control group (P > 0.05). Both intervention groups experienced significant pain reduction after training, while the control group had significantly higher pain scores (P < 0.05). Regarding post-test group differences, core endurance improved significantly in both intervention groups compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Pain scores were significantly lower in both intervention groups compared to the control group (P < 0.05). No significant difference was detected in any outcome measures between the two intervention groups (P > 0.05).
Conclusion. BW improves core muscle endurance and reduces pain in patients with NSLBP and is as effective as home-based CSE.
Key words
backward walking, core stability, pain, non-specific low back pain
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Effect of lower body, core and upper body kinematic chain exercise protocol on throwing performance among university shot put athletes: A pilot study

Vinod Kumar K.C, Thamer A. Altaim, Shenbaga Sundaram Subramanian, Shadi Abdelbaset Alkhob, Pradeep Reddy, Anusha.M.B.S, Naresh Bhaskar Raj, Senthi P, Riziq Allah Mustafa Gaowgzeh


Vinod Kumar K.C, Thamer A. Altaim, Shenbaga Sundaram Subramanian, Shadi Abdelbaset Alkhob, Pradeep Reddy, Anusha.M.B.S, Naresh Bhaskar Raj, Senthi P, Riziq Allah Mustafa Gaowgzeh – Effect of lower body, core and upper body kinematic chain exercise protocol on throwing performance among university shot put athletes: A pilot study. Fizjoterapia Polska 2023; 23(3); 108-115

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG143R1m

Abstract
A coordinated sequence of movements is required to generate maximum power and velocity in shot put. Kinematic chains emphasize the interactions between various body segments during a movement. They suggest that force production and transfer are optimized by coordinating multiple joints and muscle groups. In previous research, the kinematic chain has been attributed to shot put performance. Few studies have examined the effects of a comprehensive kinematic chain exercise protocol on throwing performance among shot put athletes, particularly at universities. Pilot study investigating lower body, core, and upper body kinematic chain exercise protocol on university shot put athletes’ throwing performance. A total of twenty-four young athletes specializing in shotput, with an average age of 19.87 years and a standard deviation of 1.31 years, were divided into two groups, namely the experimental group and the control group, using a random assignment method, the experimental group, consisting of 12 participants, underwent an 8-week kinematic chain training program alongside their regular training sessions. On the other hand, the control group, also consisting of 12 participants, only participated in their regular training sessions without any additional intervention. Pre- and post-training assessments were conducted to measure shotput throwing performance, preference for throwing style, and the participants’ satisfaction with the exercise protocol, using a questionnaire. The athletes who took part in the kinematic chain program demonstrated a significant improvement in throwing distance compared to the control group (p = 0.01). Additionally, the athletes in the experimental group reported higher levels of satisfaction with the exercise protocol (p = 0.005). These findings indicate that incorporating an 8-week Lower Body, Core and Upper Body kinematic chain exercise protocol into regular training sessions can lead to more pronounced improvements in sport-specific throwing performance among young shotput athletes.

Keywords
shotput athletes, kinematic chain exercises, shot put throwing style, core stability, throwing distance

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