An Anatomical Approach to Posterior Chain Dysfunction: Introducing Kinetic Chain Activation for Lower Back Pain Rehabilitation
Keywords:
Non-Specific Low Back Pain, Kinetic Chain Activation, Static Hamstring Stretching, Functional Disability, Flexibility, ProprioceptionAbstract
Background and Aims: Non-specific lower back pain (NSLBP) is a leading cause of disability worldwide, often associated with hamstring tightness, pelvic misalignment, and postural dysfunction. Conventional physiotherapy approaches typically include static hamstring stretching to relieve posterior chain stiffness. However, emerging strategies such as Kinetic Chain Activation (KCA) emphasize dynamic muscle recruitment and neuromuscular coordination. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of static stretching and KCA in individuals with NSLBP, highlighting the functional benefits of integrated movement-based interventions.
Materials and Methods: A randomized clinical trial conducted on 60 participants (aged 25–50 years) with NSLBP, equally divided into: Group A (static hamstring stretching) and Group B (KCA technique). Each group received three supervised sessions per week for four weeks. Pain intensity, functional disability, and hamstring flexibility were assessed pre- and post-intervention using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and Popliteal Angle Test, respectively. Statistical analysis included paired and unpaired t-tests, with significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: Both groups demonstrated significant within-group improvements in VAS, ODI, and popliteal angle (p < 0.001). Although intergroup comparisons revealed no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05), the KCA group exhibited slightly superior improvements in hamstring flexibility and functional recovery.
Conclusion: Static stretching and kinetic chain activation are both effective for managing NSLBP. However, the dynamic and integrative nature of KCA may provide additional functional advantages, particularly in addressing neuromuscular coordination and postural dysfunction in sedentary populations. Its simplicity and equipment-free design make it a promising addition to rehabilitation protocols.
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