The study aims to (1) investigate the lumbopelvic and hip movement control abilities of collegiate athletes; and (2) identify predictors of LBP occurrence in collegiate athletes.
This longitudinal cohort study recruited eligible collegiate athletes who underwent a series of movement control assessments, followed by a one-year prospective follow-up. Participants reported occurrences of LBP and were categorized into LBP and non-LBP groups for subsequent analysis of group differences. Regression analysis was used to identify significant predictors and risk factors associated with the occurrence of LBP.
Among 112 healthy collegiate athletes (mean age: 21.0 ± 2.1 years), 11 reported experiencing LBP. This LBP group had a higher proportion of females and demonstrated elevated levels of physical activity. In the movement control tests, participants with LBP exhibited poorer control of their trunk and lower extremities, particularly in the single-leg 1/4 squat + hip turn test (P = 0.001), single-leg 1/4 squat + upper body rotation test (P = 0.003), single-leg lunge fast chest twist test (P 0.001), and rotational landing control test (P = 0.012). Regression analysis identified gender (P = 0.016) and performance on the dominant-side single-leg lunge fast chest twist test (P = 0.023) as significant predictors of LBP occurrence.
This study demonstrates that collegiate athletes with LBP exhibit poorer lumbopelvic and lower extremity movement control compared to their peers without LBP. Key tests, such as the single-leg lunge fast chest twist and rotational landing control, revealed significant deficits in movement control among those with LBP. Additionally, gender and performance in specific movement control tasks were identified as significant predictors of LBP occurrence.
The findings of this study highlight the importance of assessing and improving movement control in collegiate athletes, particularly in the lumbopelvic region and lower extremities, as a preventive strategy for LBP. Female athletes and those with poor performance in specific movement tasks, such as the single-leg lunge fast chest twist, may benefit from targeted intervention programs aimed at enhancing motor control and stability. Incorporating movement control assessments into regular athletic screening and rehabilitation protocols could reduce the risk of LBP, improve performance, and contribute to overall athlete health.
Movement control
College athletes
