Correlation Between Lumbar Core Muscle Strength and Dynamic Balance in Mountain Trekkers
Abstract
Background: Mountain trekking imposes significant demands on dynamic balance and is associated with a high incidence of fall-related injuries. Lumbar core muscle strength, reflecting the activation and control of deep stabilising muscles, may influence dynamic balance; however, its relationship in mountain trekkers remains insufficiently explored.
Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 62 mountain trekkers (aged 15–60 years) recruited using purposive sampling. Lumbar core muscle was assessed using a pressure biofeedback unit, and dynamic balance was evaluated using the Lower Quarter Y-Balance Test. The mean of three trials in each direction was recorded. Data normality was assessed using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov Test, and associations were analysed using Spearman’s rank-order correlation (p < 0.001).
Results: Mean lumbar core muscle strength (core activation and control) was 3.48 ± 1.19 mmHg. Mean Y-Balance composite scores were 84.29 ± 6.76 (right) and 84.51 ± 6.80 (left). A moderate positive correlation was observed between lumbar core muscle function and dynamic balance for the right (ρ = 0.451, p < 0.001) and left (ρ = 0.462, p < 0.001) limbs.
Conclusion: Lumbar core muscle strength is significantly associated with dynamic balance in mountain trekkers; however, the cross-sectional design and purposive sampling limit causal inference and generalisability.
Keywords: Y-Balance Test, pressure biofeedback, core stability, postural control
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