Back and leg complaints in relation to muscle strength in young men.
Back and leg complaints were studied by using a questionnaire and medical examination in 183 male conscripts and relating the results to background variables, anthropometry, the isometric strength of large muscle groups, and endurance running. A history of sciatica was reported by 8%, lumbago by 13%, back injury by 13% and low back insufficiency by 63%. Weak trunk extensors were associated with a history of sciatica, weak trunk flexors with back injuries and with current backache at work/exercise. Weak leg extensors showed associations with a history of low back insufficiency and of sick leave due to the back and with current hip pain. Men with a history of lumbago and of hip and knee complaints performed poorly during 12 min of running. Back and leg complaints were more frequent in men with high socio-economic status, who engaged in little physical activity, or who were obese. The questionnaire and strength measurements proved suitable for studying low back syndrome in its early stages.
D000328:Adult; D001416:Back Pain / Q000150:complications / Q000503:physiopathology*; D005387:Finland; D005528:Foot / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006801:Humans; D007866:Leg / Q000503:physiopathology*; D008297:Male; D008887:Military Medicine; D009132:Muscles / Q000503:physiopathology*; D005082:Physical Exertion; D012585:Sciatica / Q000150:complications; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors