Authors : Mahipal Singh; Diksha Srivastava; Sushmita Bhati

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 9 - September

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/ymcjjma2

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26sep985

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : Background: Low back pain (LBP) is a major musculoskeletal health problem, while sedentary behaviour, reduced physical activity, elevated body mass index and psychosocial stress may contribute to musculoskeletal symptoms. Hip-flexor and iliopsoas dysfunction may represent an additional clinically relevant factor, particularly in individuals exposed to prolonged sitting and sustained hip-flexion postures. However, an integrated lifestyle-based screening approach specifically addressing iliopsoas dysfunction and LBP in women remains limited.  Objective: To identify lifestyle and clinical factors associated with LBP in women and to develop and internally validate a preliminary risk-screening tool incorporating iliopsoas dysfunction and modifiable lifestyle characteristics.  Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 410 women aged 18–50 years. Participants were assessed for demographic characteristics, body mass index, sedentary behaviour, screen exposure, physical activity, perceived stress and occupational/lifestyle factors. LBP was assessed using a standardized symptom history, numerical pain rating scale and Oswestry Disability Index. Iliopsoas/hip-flexor dysfunction was assessed bilaterally using the Modified Thomas Test. Associations with LBP were initially examined using univariable analyses, followed by multivariable logistic regression. A preliminary weighted screening score was developed from independently associated variables. Discrimination was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic analysis, and internal validation was performed using 1,000 bootstrap resamples.

Keywords : Low Back Pain; Iliopsoas; Hip Flexor; Women; Sedentary Behaviour; Physical Activity; Physiotherapy; Screening Tool; Risk Prediction; Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

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