Multiplying linear dimension techniques may predict the cross-sectional area of multifidus muscle at all levels of lumbar spine.

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to find out the relationship between the multiplied linear dimensions (MLD) measurement and the cross-sectional area (CSA) measurement of the lumbar multifidus muscle.

METHODS

Sixty healthy female subjects participated in this study. The CSA of the lumbar multifidus muscle from L2 to L5 was bilaterally measured by tracing around the muscle margins with an on- screen cursor. The linear dimensions including lateral dimension (LD), anteroposterior dimension (APD) and MLD of the muscles were also calculated at the same levels of lumbar vertebrae.

RESULTS

The linear regression between CSA and MLD for each vertebral level was significant (r=0.89 to 0.97, p<0.0001). In addition, there was significant correlation between CSA and APD (r=0.69 to 0.87, p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

MLD method can be used to predict the CSA of the lumbar multifidus muscle. The method described for assessing the multifidus muscle is a potentially valuable, quick and easy way to evaluate muscle size at different levels of the lumbar vertebrae in clinical practice.