The effect of lumbar belts on isolated lumbar muscle. Strength and dynamic capacity.

STUDY DESIGN

This study analyzed the effect of lumbar support belts on functional performance.

OBJECTIVE

To compare lumbar muscle strength and lifting capacity with and without a lumbar belt.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Industrialized settings have begun to encourage the use of lumbar support belts for their employees. It is believed that the belts may decrease the risk of injury and enhance the functional performance of the individual.

METHODS

Twenty-two subjects (average age, 27.5 years) were tested on four separate days to evaluate the effect of a commercially available belt on isolated lumbar isometric strength and functional dynamic lifting capacity. All subjects had no history of low back problems. The order of testing with and without a belt was randomized for both conditions. On the first 2 days, subjects performed a seven-angle isometric lumbar extension strength test, 1 day with and 1 day without a lumbar belt. On the following 2 days, subjects were tested to evaluate functional capacity with and without a lumbar belt. The functional capacity evaluation was performed by progressively lifting weighted canisters from various levels. Heart rates were monitored to ensure that a maximum effort was achieved over the different days.

RESULTS

T tests revealed that isometric lumbar strength and functional lifting capacity was not significantly affected by the belt.

CONCLUSION

The use of a lumbar belt does not enhance isometric lumbar muscle strength or dynamic lifting capacity.