Low Back Pain in Competitive Swimmers and its Relationship with Ankle Dorsiflexion

Abstract

Low back pain is a common musculoskeletal condition among competitive swimmers, and its occurrence may be related to biomechanical alterations in the lower limb. However, few studies have explored the influence of distal joint mobility on its development. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 157 federated swimmers (86 males and 71 females), divided into four categories: infant (14–15 years; n =#35), junior (16–20 years; n =#38), senior (≥21 years; n =#36), and master (>25 years; n =#48). The presence of low back pain was assessed using the NRPS-11 scale, and joint mobility was measured in the hip (flexion, extension, internal and external rotation), ankle dorsiflexion (with knee flexed and extended), and posterior muscle flexibility using the Seat and Reach test. A total of 66 swimmers (42.0%) reported low back discomfort. These swimmers showed significantly lower values in hip internal rotation and ankle dorsiflexion in both limbs (p <#.05). Differences were consistent across all categories and swimming styles, with greater involvement observed in butterfly, backstroke, and master swimmers. An association was also found between reduced posterior flexibility (Seat and Reach test) and the presence of low back pain (p <#.001). Limited joint mobility in the hip and ankle may be associated with low back pain in competitive swimmers. Systematic assessment of these factors may be useful for the prevention and management of muscle discomfort in this athletic population.