STRENGTH CHARACTERISTICS OF THE LOWER LIMB MUSCLES IN ADULT PATIENTS WITH SPONDYLOLISTHESIS

Aim. To study maximum muscle strength of the lower limbs in adult patients with spondylolisthesis. Material and Methods. 37 Patients with spondylolisthesis of I, II and III Degree displacement at the age 40-66 years took part in the study. Functional state of the patients was evaluated on Oswestry scale, pain syndrome – on NRS and VAS scales. The evaluation of absolute and relative (taking body weight into account) maximal moments of strength of muscle (leg extensors, leg flexors, plantar foot flexors, dorsal foot flexors) was performed using dynamometer stands. Control group consisted of 50 healthy individuals of 40-65 years of age. Results. In patients with spondylolisthesis with I, II and III Degree displacement, a significant decrease in the values of the absolute and relative moments of strength of the leg extensors and flexors, plantar foot flexors was observed (by 20-67%, on average – by 52.6±3.2%). The parameters of dorsal foot flexors demonstrated a lower reduction value in I, II Degree displacement (by 12-32%, on average – by 21.3±4.7%), and in III Degree no reliable differences were found with the control group values due to increase in the percentage of male patients. Conclusion. In adult patients with spondylolisthesis with I, II and III Degree displacement, a significant reduction in the maximal moments of strength of «antigravity muscles»: extensors and flexors of the leg, plantar flexors of the foot was observed. Dorsal flexors of the foot demonstrated a less pronounced reduction of strength characteristics.