Does physical performance demonstrate patient-reported outcomes after lumbar spine surgery?

Due to time and setting constraints in clinical practice, performing a comprehensive assessment with both questionnaires and physical performance tests may not be possible. This study aimed to demonstrate the relationship between physical performance and patient-reported outcomes in patients after Lumbar Spine Surgery (LSS).

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 50 participants who were followed up at least six months after LSS. Participants were evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for activity and rest, Modified Oswestry Disability Index (mODI), Lumbar Spine Instability Questionnaire (LSIQ), One Leg Stance Test (OLST), Semi-Tandem Stance Test (STST), 4 m Gait Speed Test (4MGS), and Timed Up and Go Test (TUG).

OLST was moderately correlated with the mODI (r=-0.442, p < 0.01). STST moderately correlated with mODI (r=-0.356, p < 0.05). TUG was strongly correlated with mODI (r = 0.564, p < 0.01). In addition, TUG showed a moderate correlation with a-VAS and LSIQ, respectively (r₁ = 0.392, r₂ = 0.475, p < 0.01). A strong correlation was found between 4MGS and mODI (r=-0.535, p < 0.01). 4MGS had a moderate correlation with LSIQ (r=-0.374, p < 0.01). A regression model summary showed that the TUG, OLST, and STST were not related to r-VAS, a-VAS, mODI, and LSIQ (p > 0.01). Higher gait speed on the 4MGS test was strongly associated with lower mODI scores (standardized ß=-0.538, p = 0.021).

Less activity pain and disability are associated with good balance and performance. 4MGS can mostly predict patient-reported function in patients after LSS.