Relationship Between Disability, Flexibility, Back Muscles, and Thoracolumbar Fascia in Patients With Lumbar Disc Degeneration

Lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration is a common condition that may be associated with chronic low back pain, reduced spinal flexibility, and limitations in daily activities. Changes in the paravertebral muscles and thoracolumbar fascia may also be related to these symptoms. However, the relationships among these structural and functional factors are not fully understood. The aim of this prospective observational study is to investigate the relationships among disability, flexibility, paravertebral muscle characteristics, and thoracolumbar fascia thickness and morphology in patients with lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration. The study will include female patients aged 20-75 years with low back pain accompanied by radiating leg pain lasting at least 3 months. Participants will undergo clinical assessments of pain, disability, and lumbar flexibility. Ultrasonography will be used to evaluate thoracolumbar fascia thickness and morphological characteristics, as well as paravertebral muscle trophism. Previously acquired lumbar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans will be reviewed to assess intervertebral disc degeneration, the presence or absence of lumbar disc herniation, and paravertebral muscle characteristics, including fatty infiltration. The study aims to improve the understanding of the relationships between lumbar spine structural changes, surrounding musculoskeletal tissues, pain, disability, and flexibility. No experimental treatment will be assigned to participants.

Inclusion Criteria: * Female patients aged 20-75 years. Low back pain with radiating (radicular) leg pain lasting at least 3 months. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain score of 3 or higher. Availability of lumbar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. Voluntary participation and provision of written informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: * History of spinal or lower extremity surgery. Presence of scoliosis, spondylolisthesis, or severe osteoporosis. History of trauma or vertebral fracture. Rheumatologic diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis. Neurological diseases. Malignancy or infection. Modic type 3 changes on lumbar MRI. Pregnancy or breastfeeding. Cognitive impairment.