Understanding the Effect of Lumbar Lordosis Angle on Vertebral Load Distribution During Walking

Atypical sagittal spinopelvic alignment is correlated with exacerbating lower back pain (LBP). This study investigated the effects of simulated sagittal spinopelvic alignment via altered lumbar lordosis (LL) on lumbar vertebral contact forces during walking. A full-body OpenSim model with custom lumbar joints was developed to estimate lumbar vertebral loads for self-selected speed walking gaits of 18 healthy participants. Limited LL during walking augmented the resultant vertebral compressive and shear forces, and vertebral body compression. Excessive LL increased resultant vertebral shear forces, compression at facet joints and L5/S1 vertebral body, potentially progressing to different types of LBP.