THE 5-YEAR FOLLOW-UP STUDY OF BODY MASS INDEX IN CORRELATION TO SKELETAL MUSCLE BELLY STIFFNESS AND LATERAL SYMMETRY

The epidemic of childhood obesity is progressing worldwide, especially in children. Great concern has to be made as it is likely that excess weight in childhood adversely affects health in adulthood. Five year follow-up study was done in Republic of Slovenia measuring body mass index and tensiomyographic response of erector spinae muscle on both lateral sides. A total of 108 children (55 boys) were assessed six times from age of 8 to 13 years. Findings show that children with higher BMI consistently have lower mechanical amplitude of tensiomyographic response, hence higher muscle belly stiffness. Lateral symmetry was not impaired consistently with increased BMI, whereas at higher age (13 years) also lateral symmetry was significantly impaired. In conclusion we could confirm that obesity could triggers serious health related problems in lower back muscles.