MEDICINE & HEALTH

Research Article Critique

Research Article Critique

Introduction

Purpose, problem statement and/or research question

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the muscle imbalance of hip abductor muscle weakness and iliotibial band (ITB) stiffness in subjects with LBP by investigating the relationship between stiffness of ITB and hip abductor muscle strength in subjects with lower blood pressure (Arab, 2010).

The purpose was specifically stated on page 2, at the very end of background section.

In the background the author describes the rationale behind the research as “Shortening of the ITB has been considered to be associated with LBP. Stretching of the ITB is frequently recommended in low back pain treatment programs. However, the exact cause of ITB shortness in persons with LBP has not yet been determined.” (Arab, 2010).

Some studies have examined the relationship between hip abductor strength and ITB syndrome in runners, but no study has clinically examined the theory of muscle imbalance of hip abductor weakness and ITB stiffness in patients with LBP.

Significance of this research is discussed in the beginning of the background paragraph, when the authors state that ITB shortening is associated with the pain in lower back; and that although, ITB stretching is recommended in the treatment programs of LBP patients but no conclusive research exists for the exact reason of short ITB in patient with LBP. (Arab, 2010).

The problem is implied by the authors on page 2 stating that no study has clinically examined the theory of muscle imbalance of hip abductor weakness and ITB stiffness in patients with LBP

The authors state that that although ITB stretching is recommended in the treatment programs of LBP patients but no conclusive research exists for the exact reason of short ITB in patient with LBP. However, no conclusive study has examined this theory, clinically. (Arab, 2010, p.1).

Research question: To determine the relationship between hip abductor muscle strength and ITB stiffness in patients with LBP.

This question is specifically stated in the title of this research article.

Literature review and theoretical framework

1. The literature review has been covered under the heading of background. The authors provide a logical sequence of information starting off with an overview on ITB the hip abductor muscle. The recommendation for stretching of ITB during LBP patients' treatment program is stated, along with the previous research findings are discussed, regarding the functioning of hip abductor muscle. The theory related to weak hip abductor muscle resulting in shortness of ITB. Previous research findings are discussed regarding muscle weakness and shortness of ITB. 2. The author does present a theoretical framework for this study by reviewing previous studies and findings and using that information to develop their own plan of study.

3. The relationship of this study to previous research is not clear as, according to authors, the clear reason for shortness of ITB in LBP patients is not known. The authors present a general overview of the topic and then narrow iliotibal syndrome and muscle weakness.

4. The researchers do present a few areas of concern where there is a ...