Validity of the Transverse Abdominis Thickness Change for Abdominal Draw-in Maneuver Using Biofeedback Sensor

Abstract

Background Transverse abdominis (TrA) is an important local muscle that plays an essential role in the core. Ultrasound imaging is a reliable and valid technique for analyzing TrA muscle thickness. However, this method requires skilled operators. Biofeedback devices have achieved similar clinical outcomes to ultrasound. Even so, few studies have examined the validity of this biofeedback. Objectives This study aimed to assess whether changes in waist circumference, as determined by changes in the thickness of TrA detected with a stretch sensor made with a biofeedback device, produce results similar to those obtained through ultrasound. Methods Nineteen healthy participants were recruited for this study. Ultrasound measurement of the thickness of TrA was compared with the simultaneous measurement of the stretch sensor biofeedback device. Results Acceptable validity was found between the thickness of the TrA and the stretch sensor displayed on-screen waist circumference (Pearson correlation = -0.69, p = 0.03). Conclusions The study confirmed that changes in the grape bar on the screen of the stretch sensor application could be employed as a suitable indicator for assessing the changes to the thickness of the TrA muscle.