Comparison of joint angle during takeoff with and without chronic low back pain in male collegiate pole vaulters —focus on shoulder flexion and hip extension—

Abstract

Low back pain (LBP) is a common condition among pole vaulters. The purpose of this study was to clarify biomechanical factors in vaulters with chronic LBP. Our study involved nine male collegiate pole vaulters. We recorded their jumping using a high-speed camera and analyzed it using the 2D method. Four vaulters reported chronic LBP based on a questionnaire that they were requested to complete. The coefficient of variation for hip joint extension angle of takeoff leg was significantly larger in the chronic LBP group than in the control group. We speculated that pole vaulters with chronic LBP have variabilities in takeoff motion between vaulting trials because their trunk stability was compromised.