Back Health Assessment
Low back health is comprised of flexibility, proper posture, abdominal and back muscle strength and endurance, as well as physical activity level and waist circumference. Flexibility is important in maintaining the functional curves of the spine so that full range of motion can be maintained. The CPAFLA (Canadian Physical Activity, Fitness & Lifestyle Approach) protocol uses the sit and reach test, to assess low back and hamstring flexibility. Posture tests are used to assess deviations from normal body alignment and may be used to improve body positioning. Measures of muscular endurance in the flexor, extensor, and back stabilizing muscles, are important indicators of low back pain development. Endurance of the back extensors is measured by the Biering-Sorensen method, where the participant is required to support their upper body while their legs are fixated. The length of time that the body can be supported by the legs indicates of the endurance of back musculature. Abdominal endurance is measured through the CPAFLA partial curl up test. A greater waist circumference increases compression on the intervertebral disks and stress on the spine due to increased weight in the abdominal area. Also, the Healthy Physical Activity Questionnaire is able to distinguish those who suffer from low back pain and those who do not. Each of these five parameters are used to create a composite back fitness score.
This is a good test for those experiencing back pain or anyone who is concerned with their ergonomics as they have a potentially damaging occupation. This test takes around 20-30 minutes to run and costs $30. Test can be done for sports teams/groups and cost increases dependent on numbers, travel time and space allocation.