University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository
Specialty
Neurosurgery
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to synthesize current evidence regarding paraspinal muscle composition in LBP/LR and evaluate whether physical therapy and nutritional interventions may influence FI or improve patient outcomes. Low back pain (LBP) and lumbar radiculopathy (LR) are common conditions that contribute substantially to global disability. LBP/LR are associated with structural and functional changes in the paraspinal muscles, particularly muscle fatty infiltration (FI), which correlates with increased pain, disability, and postoperative complications. Although the pathogenesis remains unclear, elevated paraspinal FI is consistently linked with poor clinical outcomes. A narrative review of recent literature was conducted, focusing on studies examining paraspinal FI, physical therapy interventions, nutritional factors, and nonsurgical management of LBP/LR. Physical therapy and lifestyle interventions have been shown to improve symptoms and functional outcomes, although no studies demonstrate reversal of paraspinal FI through resistance training alone. Emerging research suggests that dietary factors may positively influence muscle composition, while polyunsaturated fatty acids such as DHA and ARA may provide protective effects against myosteatosis. Overall, current evidence supports supervised resistance training for symptom management and highlights lifestyle counseling as an important component of comprehensive care for patients with LBP/LR.
Recommended Citation
Lawhorn K. Paraspinal Muscle Mass in Low Back Pain and Lumbar Radiculopathy. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2026; 8(1).
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