Comparison of flexion relaxation phenomenon between female yogis and matched non-athlete group

Marzyeh Ramezani,Mohsen Ghofrani-Jahromi,Alireza Motealleh,Amin Kordi Yoosefinejad

doi:10.1186/s13102-022-00406-4

Marzyeh Ramezani, Mohsen Ghofrani-Jahromi + Show 2 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1186/s13102-022-00406-4

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Abstract

BackgroundTrunk flexion is a common exercise during daily activities. Flexion relaxation phenomenon (FRP) occurs during forward bending in which there is a sudden silence of erector spinae (ES) muscles. The pattern of forward bending differs in yoga practitioners. This learned pattern probably predisposes yogis to injuries. The hypothesis of this study was that FRP differs in yogis in comparison to non-yogis individuals.MethodsThis observational cross-sectional study was performed on 60 women assigned into yogis and non-athlete groups. Each participant was asked to bend forward and then return to the initial position. ES activity was recorded at L3 level, 4 cm from mid line during the trial. Trunk inclination and lumbar flexion angles were calculated at FRP onset and cessation moments.ResultsThe FRP occurred in 80% of yoga practitioners in comparison to 96.7% in the control group. Trunk inclination angle was significantly greater at FRP initiation in yogis compared to control group. Lumbar flexion angle was not different between the groups.ConclusionsIt is concluded that the altered pattern of forward bending observed in yogis may change patterns of ES muscles activity if it becomes part of a person's daily lifestyle which might predispose these muscles to fatigue and subsequent injuries; however, further studies are warranted for clarification.

Highlights

Trunk flexion is a common exercise during daily activities
Biomechanical studies indicated that the normal rhythm of motion during trunk flexion is from proximal to distal which is known as lumbopelvic rhythm and the absence of this rhythm may lead to muscle fatigue and resultant Low back pain (LBP) [2]
It is worth noting that Flexion relaxation phenomenon (FRP) did not occurred in 6 yogis and one subject in control group

Summary

Introduction

Flexion relaxation phenomenon (FRP) occurs during forward bending in which there is a sudden silence of erector spinae (ES) muscles. Flexion relaxation phenomenon (FRP) is defined as reduced or sudden silence in myoelectrical activity of erector spinae (ES) muscles during trunk forward bending that occurs in healthy individuals [1]. Comparing individuals with low back pain (LBP) to healthy ones during forward bending revealed an increased) activity of ES muscles in people with LBP indicating the compensation for the decreased ability to resist the tension of stretched passive tissues [7, 8]. Biomechanical studies indicated that the normal rhythm of motion during trunk flexion is from proximal to distal which is known as lumbopelvic rhythm and the absence of this rhythm may lead to muscle fatigue and resultant LBP [2]. The objective of the present study was to evaluate FRP in yoga practitioners and to compare it with those of non-yogis

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Conclusion