Squat lifting can lead to increased spine hyperextension and places excessive pressure on the posterior disc annulus, according to a new study. Support belts do not change the results.
In the study, investigators enrolled 48 rowers (28 men, 20 women) who performed squat weightlifting for training. Each athlete sequentially performed six squat lifts at 40% maximum, four lifts at 60% maximum and two at 80% maximum, and repeated them wearing a support belt. Investigators monitored the athletes’ spinal motion flexion/extension, lateral flexion and axial rotation flexion via motion analysis.
Data revealed that there was a significant increase in extension in all groups,” with an overall difference across the three lifts of 18.8°, average. Analysis of motion segments in extension showed about 3° of extension got lost per spinal motion segment. Extension ranges were about 3° to 5° but, as the weight increased , extension increased progressively.
Because of the added pressure these squats place on the spine, they could have a negative effect on skeletally immature athletes who perform them, according to James C. Walsh, of Dublin. “We should ask ourselves: ‘If we fail to act now, what problems are we stirring up for the future in this vulnerable group?’” he says.
(Excerpted from: Walsh JC, Quinlan J, Byrne G, et al. Analysis of lumbar spinal motion and measurement of the posterior annulus pressure in athletes during squat weight lifting - Is there a cause for concern? Presented at the British Orthopaedic Association Annual Congress 2007. Sept. 25-28, 2007. Manchester).
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