Peer-Reviewed Journal Details
Mandatory Fields
Macmanus C.;Dankaerts W.;O'Sullivan K.
2013
December
Physiotherapy Practice and Research
Using wireless technology to monitor lumbo-pelvic kinematics in rowing
Published
()
Optional Fields
kinematics low back pain posture Rowing
34
2
113
121
Background: Low back pain (LBP) is very common in rowing. A novel wireless method of monitoring lumbo-pelvic kinematics has recently been developed. This study aimed to determine if lumbo-pelvic kinematics; (1) can be measured reliably using this method; (2) change during a rowing session; (3) differ between rowers with and without LBP. Methods: Two studies were completed; (a) a reliability study, and (b) a cross-sectional study. In both studies, the posture monitor was placed on the subjects' lumbo-pelvic region during testing on a Concept 2, Model D rowing ergometer. For the reliability study, seven rowers performed the first stage of an ergometer 'step-test' on three occasions. For the cross-sectional study, 11 senior/elite male rowers (five = non-LBP; six = LBP) performed a standardised 'step-test' with seven stages. Results: The posture monitor demonstrated very high reliability (all ICC >0.8), with only small mean differences. A one-way repeated measures ANOVA revealed that there was no significant interaction between group and test stage (p = 0.541). There was no significant main effect for test stage (p = 0.257) or group (p = 0.620). CONCLUSION: This pilot study found no significant differences in lumbo-pelvic kinematics between the groups, or across the test stages. The posture monitor could be a useful tool for monitoring lumbo-pelvic kinematics in the field. Larger studies of prolonged rowing, using more homogenous subgroups of LBP subjects, who report greater levels of LBP, are required.ŠIOS Press and the authors. All rights reserved.
2213-0683
10.3233/PPR-130021
Grant Details