Examination of Multifidus Muscle and Balance in Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

The stability and balance of the lumbar spine depends on the paraspinal muscles surrounding it. In addition, the atrophy of the muscle in this area leads to deterioration of the body's stability. The multifidus muscle is important for the lumbar region due to its multiple connections. Today, morphological factors of paraspinal muscles are being investigated. The degeneration occurring in these muscles also causes a decrease in the thickness and cross-sectional areas of the muscle. This condition is associated with loss of balance in various populations. However, this relationship has not been adequately investigated in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis. At the same time, the intensity of pain affects balance and causes disruptions. Balance problems in older adults can lead to falls, leading to vertebral and femoral neck fractures. These injuries cause a decrease in quality of life. When the literature is examined, it is seen that patients with LSS often have balance problems. Parameters such as muscle mass, pain, disability and fear of falling affect this factor. However, although the relationship between muscle thickness and balance has been described in various populations, there are insufficient studies investigating the relationship between balance problems and muscle thickness in patients with LSS. In addition, no study has been found comparing the difference in muscle thickness and cross-sectional area in LSS patients with poor and normal balance. In addition, it is observed that biopsychosocial factors such as pain, disability and fear of falling in balance disorders are not adequately explained. In this context, our study aims to The aim of our study is to examine the relationship between balance and biopsychosocial factors that can affect it.