Clinical Assessment of Spinal Alignment and Pelvic Tilt in Volleyball Players with Non-Specific Low Back Pain: A Physiotherapy Perspective

Abstract

Background: Due to recurrent hyperextension, rotation, and high-impact loading when spiking,
serving, and jumping, volleyball players frequently have non-specific low back pain (NON-SPECIFIC
LOW BACK PAIN). In this athletic population, changes in pelvic tilt and spinal alignment are often
linked to the development and persistence of NON-SPECIFIC LOW BACK PAIN.
Objective: Using the flexible ruler for measuring spinal curvature and the goniometer for measuring
pelvic tilt, this study presents clinical assessment results of sagittal spinal alignment and pelvic tilt in
volleyball players with NON-SPECIFIC LOW BACK PAIN. It also gives physiotherapists an
organized, evidence-based evaluation framework.
Methods: 30 NON-SPECIFIC LOW BACK PAIN volleyball players were evaluated. A universal
goniometer was used to measure pelvic tilt, and a flexible ruler was used to assess lumbar curve. A
Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was used to measure the degree of pain. Pearson correlations, normality
testing, and descriptive statistics were calculated.
Results: Mean pelvic tilt was 14.63° ± 1.79° (range 11.2–18.2°), mean lumbar curve was 38.04° ± 2.98°
(range 30.1–42.7°), and mean VAS was 6.91 ± 1.02 (range 5.4–9.2). All variables were normally
distributed. No significant correlations were found between pelvic tilt, lumbar curve, and VAS (p >
0.05).
Conclusion: Systematic clinical assessment of spinal alignment using the flexible ruler and pelvic tilt
using the goniometer is essential for identifying modifiable factors contributing to NON-SPECIFIC
LOW BACK PAIN in volleyball players. An integrated protocol combining these quantitative measures
with functional movement screening enables targeted rehabilitation and injury prevention strategies.