Physical and psychosocial correlates of test-retest isometric torque variability in patients with chronic low back pain

Variability in trunk torque production has been suggested as a means of detecting submaximal effort in the assessment of chronic low back pain. Several investigations question the validity of using torque variability to detect submaximal efforts in patients with back injuries. However, few investigations have studied the correlates of text-retest torque variability in clinical populations. The present study investigated psychological distress, disability/flexibility/pain, and symptom magnification correlates of test-retest torque variability in chronic low back pain patients. Contrary to previous studies, psychological distress, tendency to report symptoms, and pain were negatively correlated with measures of torque variability. The findings indicate the potential for psychological variables to influence torque production, but on the whole provide little strong support for the use of test-retest torque variability as a means of detecting submaximal performance.