Abdominal Strength Research Articles

A Novel UBM/SIS Composite Biological Scaffold for 2-Year Abdominal Defect Repairing and Strength Recovery in Canine Model.

Biological scaffolds are widely utilized in hernia treatment due to their exceptional pro-regenerative properties, which mitigate scar formation. However, serious complications occurred, caused by inflammatory response, premature degradation, and mechanical failure. Consequently, improvements of the biological scaffold are necessary to mitigate these risks. In this study, a novel biological scaffold integrating basement membrane-containing urinary bladder matrix (UBM) and small intestinal submucosa (SIS) is developed, and its safety and effectiveness are assessed in comparison to a commercial SIS (c-SIS) scaffold. The introduction of UBM as top surface layers significantly promotes cell adhesion, facilitating rapid formation of isolated regeneration zone. Proteomic analysis has demonstrated a more efficientdecellularization of the UBM/SIS scaffold, which subsequently mitigates inflammation in murine models, and promotes the polarization of macrophages toward the pro-healing M2 phenotype in a rat model of abdominal wall muscle defect. Furthermore, a two-year repair trial is conducted on a full-thickness abdominal wall muscle defect in canine model and confirmed that the UBM/SIS scaffold exhibits reduced seroma occurrences and enhanced tissue repair performances. Overall, the efficacyof this novel biological scaffold suggests its potential to minimize hernia recurrence in clinical practice and mitigatepatient suffering from severe inflammatory responses.

The dynamics of indicators of power abilities development in 16-17-year-old boys

The purpose of the research: to reveal changes in indicators of power abilities development in 16-17-year-old boys. Material and methods of the research. The research was carried out based on “Housing and Municipal Professional College of O.M. Beketov Kharkiv National University of Urban Economy”. There were examined 26 students of the 1st and 2nd courses. The level of strength development was determined by three indicators: strength of the shoulder girdle muscles, strength of the abdominal muscles and strength of the hip flexors. The level of development of muscle strength of a shoulder girdle was investigated by means of the motor test “Flexion and extension of arms in a lying down support” (number of times); the level of development of strength of abdominal muscles was investigated by means of the test “Lifting a trunk sitting from a starting position lying on a back for 30 s” (number of times); strength of muscles-flexors of a hip joint and muscles of an abdominal press by means of the test “Holding of legs in a lying position” (s). Results of the research. The initial level of strength development was determined, changes of the obtained indicators were traced, and the analysis in the age aspect was carried out. Conclusions. Boys’ strength development was found to be below average at the beginning of the year. It was determined that the indicators of 17-year-old boys are significantly higher than those of 16-year-old boys. At the end of the year, the level of 16-year-old boys increased from below average to average, while 17-year-old boys showed no significant changes. By age, the trend of differences didn’t change significantly, with a more significant increase in results among boys aged 17.

Relationship between Respiratory Function and the Strength of the Abdominal Trunk Muscles Including the Diaphragm in Middle-Aged and Older Adult Patients.

Objectives: Respiration plays an important function in sustaining life. The diaphragm is the primary muscle involved in respiration, and plays an important role in trunk stabilization. Although it has been reported that respiratory function is important for trunk muscle stability, the correlation between respiratory function and abdominal trunk muscle strength remains undetermined. This study aimed to clarify this correlation among middle-aged and older patients. Methods: This observational study included 398 patients scheduled for surgery for degenerative conditions of the lower extremities. Respiratory function was evaluated using forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 s measured using spirometry. Each patient underwent a physical function test before surgery, which included the assessment of the abdominal trunk muscle strength, grip power, knee extensor strength, one-leg standing time, and gait speed. Correlations between abdominal trunk muscle strength, respiratory function, and physical function were evaluated. Results: Abdominal trunk muscle strength was significantly correlated with forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in 1 s, grip power, knee extensor strength, one-leg standing time, and gait speed. Multiple linear regression analyses revealed that sex, forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in 1 s, and knee extensor strength were significant factors associated with abdominal trunk muscle strength. Conclusions: In middle-aged and older patients, abdominal trunk muscle strength including that of the diaphragm, is associated with forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 s.

Long-Term Outcomes of Diastasis Recti Abdominis in Postpartum Women: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

The objective was to investigate whether diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) can cause adverse outcomes for different long-term postpartum women. We recruited 437 long-term postpartum women at five different time points (3, 5, 10, 20, and 30years postpartum respectively). Inter-recti distance (IRD) and linea alba or umbilical hernia were measured by ultrasound. Strength of abdominal muscle was measured by a manual muscle test. Low back pain (LBP), urinary incontinence (UI) and quality of life (QOL) were measured by questionnaires including the Oswestry Disability Index, the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence Short Form, 36-Item Short Form Health Survey respectively. Women with DRA experienced more severe LBP, and poorer QOL only 10years postpartum according to the diagnostic criterion of IRD > 2cm. However, when the diagnostic criterion was raised to IRD > 3cm, women with DRA reported weaker abdominal muscle strength, more severe LBP 3, 5, and 10years postpartum, poorer QOL 3, 5, 10, and 20years postpartum, and higher incidence of linea alba or umbilical hernia 5 and 20years postpartum. When using IRD > 2cm as the diagnostic criterion, the impact of DRA is minimal. However, when utilizing IRD > 3cm as the diagnostic criterion, DRA is associated with increased linea alba or umbilical hernia, weakened abdominal muscle strength, increased LBP, and decreased QOL. Most of the effects are particularly evident within 3-10 years postpartum, but becomes insignificant 20 and 30years postpartum. Therefore, it is necessary to consider whether the diagnostic criterion of DRA need to be improved.

The prevalence of musculoskeletal pain among school students and its association with physical fitness in Guwahati urban society: a cross sectional study

Introduction and backgroundThe musculoskeletal pain (MSK) develops at an early age and pains in adolescence dispose to subsequent pain episodes in adulthood. High physical fitness levels in childhood and adolescence are linked to favorable health outcomes.This study has evaluated the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain among school students. Additionally, it examines the existing physical fitness of those children and explores potential associations between musculoskeletal pain and physical fitness.MethodsA cross sectional study was conducted in the Guwahati urban area, a capital city of North East India, in different schools. The mean and standard deviation of age was 9.49 ± 2.53. Prevalence of MSK pain was determined by the Faces Pain Scale–Revised and pediatric Gait Arm Leg Spine (pGALS) assessment, whereas physical fitness was assessed by Fitnessgram test battery.Statistical analysisPaired “t” test and logistic regression analysis were used. The level of significance was set at 0.05 for all tests performed, and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used in all cases.ResultsThe percentage of musculoskeletal pain is 38.28% where female school students have 40.33% and the male students have 36.52%. The odd ratio of 0.934 (CI = 0.916–0.972) was found between pain occurrence and aerobic capacity. The odd ratio of 0.72 (CI = 0.704–0.761) was found between the chances of pain onset and abdominal strength and endurance. The odd ratio of 0.859 (CI = 0.831–0.899) was found between pain occurrence and trunk extensor muscle strength and endurance.ConclusionThe prevalence of the musculoskeletal pain in school students is found to be 38.28%. The incidence of musculoskeletal pain and the physical fitness of a child has a significant relationship, with children who have poor physical fitness being more likely to develop musculoskeletal pain.

Alinhamento toraco-lombo-pélvico em adolescentes que frequentam aulas de balé clássico

This study aimed to assess factors associated with altered thoraco-lumbo-pelvic alignment among adolescents who attend classical ballet class. 57 adolescents were distributed into a case group formed by student ballet dancers with altered thoraco-lumbo-pelvic alignment and a control group formed by student ballet dancers with neutral alignment. The adolescents were subjected to an anthropometric and postural evaluation (photographic record of posture in the lateral view analysed using the vector graphics editor software Corel Draw 3), abdominal muscle strength test and questionnaire. The practice of ballet through Royal Academy of Dancing (RAD) method was 10.47 times more likely to be associated with altered thoraco-lumbo-pelvic alignment than the practice through Vaganova method in adolescents, and muscle strengthening was 6.23 times more likely to be associated with altered alignment when controlling for the other study variables. RAD method combined with muscle strengthening was associated with altered thoraco-lumbo-pelvic alignments among adolescents who showed weak or normal abdominal muscle strength, performed another physical activity, danced ballet for five years or less, had a weekly training load over three hours and usually slept in the prone position. The practice of ballet by the RAD method, in addition to the practice of muscle strengthening, was a factor associated with altered thoraco-lumbar-pelvic alignment.

Peran Kekuatan Perut dalam Meningkatkan Performa Tolak Peluru pada Atlet

The aim of this research is to determine the role of abdominal strength in improving shot put performance in athletes. This research uses a literature review method by collecting information by looking for relevant references and facts from journals and theses that have been previously researched. The literature is then compared and linked to provide an overview of the topic under study. Qualitative research is used as a type of research. This research explores the role of abdominal muscle strength in improving shot put performance in athletes. Shot put requires the right combination of strength, technique and coordination to achieve optimal results. One key element that is often overlooked is abdominal muscle strength or core strength. This research outlines how abdominal muscle strength contributes to body stability, efficient energy transfer, and optimization of shot put technique. Through literature analysis and research findings, it was concluded that integrated abdominal strength training in athlete training programs can help improve shot put performance by optimizing stability, energy transfer and movement technique. The practical implication is the importance of including abdominal strength training in the training program to achieve maximum performance in shot put and reduce the risk of injury. Further research could explore more deeply the long-term influence of abdominal strength training on the performance of shot put athletes.

Effect of Circuit Training and Interval Training on Health Related Physical Fitness of Physical Education Professional Students

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to know the effect of circuit training and interval training on health related physical fitness of physical education professional students. Ninety boys belonging to B.P.Ed class of Govt. College of physical Education, Bhubaneswar age ranging between 22 to 25 years acted as subjects and assigned to three groups (two experimental and one control group) with 30 students each. The two experimental groups were Circuit Training and Interval Training groups. Health related physical fitness parameters such as Abdominal Muscle Strength (Sit Up), Flexibility (Sit and Reach), Cardiovascular Endurance (1 Mile Run), and Body Fat % (Triceps and Sub-Scapular Skin fold) were measured before and after training. All the experimental Groups (Circuit training and Interval training) was administered with the selected exercises, thrice in a week for a duration of 8 weeks under direct supervision of the research scholars. The analysis of data revealed that the three experimental groups, showed significant gains in performance of health related physical fitness after administration of training for duration of 8 weeks. The control group did not show any significant increase in the performance

Impact of Medicine Ball Training on Abdominal Strength and Muscular Strength in Football Players

Impact of Medicine Ball Training on Abdominal Strength and Muscular Strength in Football Players

Estimation of Spinal Dysfunction in Construction Site Labourers

Purpose: The study aimed to assess the extent of spinal dysfunction experienced by construction site workers, considering factors such as experience, posture, discomfort, range of motion, and muscle strength. Method: This cross-sectional study selected 107 construction workers from various sites using a simple random sample approach, which was secured in writing. The study utilized various assessment tools, including the Double Leg Lowering Test, Nordic Musculoskeletal Pain Rating Scale, and Posture assessment, to evaluate the patient's pain levels using the SPSS version 23.0. Findings: The study found a significant correlation (P=0.0376) between worker type and postural abnormalities. Masons had 68.4% severe lumbar lordosis, 78.9% hyperextended knees, and 86.3% prominent thoracic kyphosis. There was significant correlation (P 0.0001) between the workers' experience and results of the double leg lowering test. Furthermore, there was a significant difference (P= 0.0017) between the Visual Analogue Pain Rating Scale and work experience. As laborers become more experienced, their abdominal muscles may weaken, causing significant tension on their spines. Conclusion: The study concluded that construction site workers with 10+ years of experience, undergo significant spinal dysfunction due to decreased abdominal muscle strength, resulting in increased strain on their spines.

Post-COVID-19 Pandemic Effect on University Students’ Fitness Level

Background and Study Purpose: Through the present paper, we aimed to determine to what extent physical capacity was affected by the restrictions during the pandemic. This confirmatory study hypothesises that university students’ fitness level and effort capacity decreased after the pandemic compared to the results obtained before sanitary restrictions. Material and Methods: Fifty female students at the economic faculties, part of two groups of 25 each, in the age range between 19 and 21, passed six physical tests. The applied physical tests targeted strength (sit-ups and squads in 30 s), power (standing long jump), flexibility (sit and reach), coordination (Matorin test), and cardio-respiratory fitness level (Ruffier test). Results: All test results, except one, demonstrate a statistically significant difference, confirming the hypothesis that the two samples differ in strength, power, flexibility, coordination, and cardio-respiratory fitness. By calculating Cohen d effect size, the standardized mean difference of the pandemic effect demonstrates how substantially different are the two samples. Conclusions: This study compares objective results of standardised fitness tests in two successive samples of young women that can contribute to a better understanding of the long-term impact of the pandemic breakdown on the fitness level. The physical abilities decrease between 10 and 28 per cent, with the most worrying level recorded at flexibility and abdominal strength tests. Remedial measures are needed to reverse the physical potential decrease of young adults after the sanitary crisis. A diminished physical potential of the future educated workforce would have lasting effects on their physical and mental health with higher healthcare expenditure and economic consequences due to a resilience and productivity decrease.

The effect of an 8-week fitness regime on low back pain and core strength in high-risk professionals.

Low back pain is prevalent among various populations and greatly impacts their quality of life. Professions that incorporate several working hours combined with heavy labor are the most affected. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of an 8-week core training intervention in emergency personnel. Sixteen randomly selected male participants; police officers (N.=8) and firefighters (N.=8) (mean age: 40.75 years; mean height: 177.69 cm; mean body mass: 85.50 kg) performed various testing procedures that assessed core muscle strength and endurance and filled the Oswestry Disability Index Questionnaire regarding the level of low back pain before and after the intervention. The 8-week intervention consisted of two 45-60-minute sessions per week that included ten core-related exercises. Statistical analysis; paired samples t-test and Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test, demonstrated significant effects in the 30-sec sit-up test, the Double Leg Lowering Test and the isometric abdominal strength measurements; p value level of significance was set at P≤0.05. All participants had minimal lower back disability before and after the intervention. The results demonstrated that the prescribed regime could improve core strength and endurance in high-risk professionals. The most important finding is that training interventions for emergency personnel are most effective when they incorporate a variety of exercises that target the core musculature in all planes of movement and engage the whole range of motion.

Comparison between abdominal core muscle strength in males with and without frozen shoulder: A pilot study

Background: The impact of adhesive capsulitis starts from the structures surrounding the shoulder complex and extends to overall deconditioning and affects neuromuscular control due to reduced daily living activities which may be passed along further in the kinetic chain. Context: Studies show there may be a certain link between core muscle activation and shoulder function, however, the literature is scanty in this regard. Aims: To compare the abdominal core muscle strength in males with and without frozen shoulder. Settings and Design: In this observational comparative study, 20 males (40-60 yrs) from a tertiary care hospital visiting the physiotherapy department for the treatment of frozen shoulder were included along with age, Body Mass Index (BMI) and Waist to Hip Ratio (WHR) matched healthy controls. Methods and Material: Abdominal core muscle strength was measured using a pressure biofeedback unit while progressive limb loading was performed. Statistical analysis used: The ordinal data was compared using SPSS Version 24 and Man Whitney U and Wilcoxon W were obtained. Results: The abdominal core muscle strength of male patients with frozen shoulder was weaker compared with healthy controls (p > 0.0001) Conclusions: The abdominal core muscle strength was significantly weaker in the males with frozen shoulder compared to age, BMI and WHR matched healthy controls. Thus Inclusion of core muscle strengthening in the rehabilitation of patients with frozen shoulder may lead to better outcomes in rehabilitation.

Correlation of Adiponectin and Leptin with Anthropometrics and Behavioral and Physical Performance in Overweight and Obese Chinese College Students.

A total of 17 anthropometric parameters, 8 questionnaires (investigating quality of life, sleep, eating, perceived functioning, stress, and depression), 9 biochemical parameters, and 12 functional parameters were investigated. In contrast to previous studies, our work found an unusually strong relationship between LEP and ADPN (r = 0.961, p = 0.000) that can be related to ethnicity. We also found that LEP and ADPN were associated with stress and bodily pain. A total of 12 anthropometric measures were also associated with LEP/ADNP levels. Moreover, LEP and ADPN were found to be related to lower limb, hand, and abdominal strength; blood pressure; and basic metabolism. However, we did not find associations with sleep; eating habits; or cardiovascular fitness, which was measured in the form of resting heart rate and VO2max. This study reveals new relationships of LEP and ADPN with selected anthropometric and behavioral parameters in obese Chinese college students.

Feasibility and effectiveness of a 24-weeks outdoor exercise program on the physical and mental health of persons with schizophrenia

Outdoor exercise can be a novelty and effective therapeutic strategy to achieve positive physical and mental health outcomes in persons with schizophrenia. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of a 24-weeks outdoor exercise program in the physical and mental health of persons with schizophrenia. Fifty-two outpatients with schizophrenia were conveniently assigned to a 24-weeks walking/jogging combined with cycling outdoor program (n = 23, male = 14) or control group (n = 29, male = 20). Demographic and clinical measures were collected. Physical health was evaluated using anthropometric measures, 6 min walk test, Eurofit and accelerometer. Mental health was evaluated using self-esteem, motivation for exercise and quality of life questionnaires. Attendance rate to the outdoor program was 92 %. The exercise program significantly decreased participant's body mass index and improved functional exercise capacity and balance. No effects were reported in the self-esteem, motivation for physical activity and quality of life. Significant decreases were found in abdominal strength, hand grip and self-esteem levels of the control group. The outdoor exercise combining walking/jogging and cycling was an effective intervention to decrease body mass index and to improve physical fitness. It can be suggested as a therapeutic approach with an important impact on the management of schizophrenia.

The Effectiveness of Physical Therapy Interventions in Management of Diastasis Recti in Postpartum Females: A Narrative Review

Diastasis recti is a condition caused by increased intra-abdominal pressure which causes the linea alba to stretch resulting in a wider inter-rectus gap. It is most common after pregnancy but can also be caused by obesity or previous abdominal procedures. Research shows myofascial laxity affecting the entire front abdominal wall. Postpartum women have a doubling of the interrectus distance and pregnancy affects abdominal muscle strength with nulliparous women having a higher number of trunk flexors and rotators [1]. DRA is mostly treated conservatively. Patients referred to a physiotherapist receive training programmes that specifically target reducing IRD. Some studies recommend training with physiotherapist, while others let patients train on their own. Recommended frequency of training sessions varied from one to five sessions per week. The exercise interventions consist of the following: Core trainings, Breathing technique and Mindfulness teaching. This study aims to find out the effectiveness of different physical therapy interventions in the treatment of diastasis recti abdominis. The condition of diastasis recti abdominis has prevalence in postpartum females and it is important to address this for the welfare of women and required to explore the best physical therapy treatment available.

School–Age Talent Identification in Female Handball by a Mathematical Model: Equation Proposed from Anthropometry, Maturity Offset, Fitness and Technical Field-Tests

ABSTRACT The present study aimed to identify parameters that best discriminate between high-level and scholar-level players for the Brazilian 13–14-year-old girl’s handball and propose a mathematical model to identify sports talent for handball. The sample was made up of all available handball players comprising these two groups: 100 girls who participated in the high-level handball championship in Brazil and 53 girls (age 13–14 years) as finalists of the school-level games in one region of Brazil. We assess the anthropometric profile, maturity offset, physical fitness, and technical skills for handball. To propose the equation, the Discriminant Function Analysis method was used. The discriminant function was significant (p ≤ .05), had a good canonical correlation (0.590), and still had an average Wilk Lambda (0.652). The variables considered in the talent identification model included: 1. flexibility, 2. abdominal strength, 3. lower limbs muscle power, 4. agility, 5. defensive movement and 6. slalom with ball. The values from the equation for identifying school-age athletes with high motor skills and performance for handball can be classified by a cutoff point (Y = 0.192). The results showed that the mathematical-model obtained was able to select school-age athletes with high motor skills for handball, and with the profile for participation in high-level championships.

Development of physical test norms for early age Pencak Silat

Background and Study Aim. The evaluation serves as a cornerstone in the continuous improvement of sports, significantly relying on the analysis of measurement data. The primary objective of this research is to develop tailored norms for physical tests specifically designed for early-age Pencak Silat practitioners. Material and Methods. The development of the test consisted of several key stages: design of the instrument, testing of the instrument, and finally, assembly of the instrument. The study included a total of 210 participants, with a breakdown of 111 male and 109 female martial artists. The techniques for data collection involved a variety of tests and measurements. The instruments used in this research included: sit-and-reach test for assessing flexibility, 30-meter sprint for speed evaluation, side step test for agility, sit-ups for abdominal strength, push-ups for arm and chest strength, wall sit test for leg muscle strength, and beep test for cardiovascular endurance. Data analysis was performed using a technique that grouped values into five standard categories, aided by the use of Microsoft Excel. Results. The findings of the study led to the establishment of norms for each component of the physical tests tailored to early-age Pencak Silat practitioners. These components have been classified into five distinct levels: very poor, poor, average, good, and excellent. Conclusions. The outcomes of this research facilitate the development of specific norms for each test item, incorporating weighting for every physical test component. These weightings have been meticulously adjusted in accordance with the primary energy systems utilized in the sport of Pencak Silat.

Reliability and validity of surface EMG assessments combined with isometric muscle strength testing in patients with abdominal rectus diastasis and asymptomatic controls

PurposePatients with abdominal rectus diastasis (ARD) may have muscular functional impairments, but clinics lack appropriate objective assessment tools. The aim was to establish the relative and absolute reliability, and convergent validity, of muscular activity using Surface Electromyography (SEMG) during isometric abdominal muscle strength testing in patients with ARD and controls without ARD.MethodsTwenty-six patients with ARD were matched for age, sex and BMI with controls without ARD. Participants were tested twice during isometric muscular contractions using SEMG located on six abdominal sites. Mean amplitude, fatigue, and recruitment order were analyzed. Relative reliability was evaluated with Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC), while absolute reliability was estimated by calculating the Standard Error of Measurement and Minimal Detectable Change. Convergent validity was addressed in relation to participant characteristics, functional ability, and symptoms.ResultsMean SEMG amplitude for all abdominal wall muscle contractions showed moderate to excellent relative test–retest reliability, with ICC values ranging from 0.46 to 0.97. In contrast, fatigue and recruitment order displayed poor to moderate relative reliability in both groups. Absolute reliability measures were generally high. A moderate to high convergent validity (ARD: rho-value 0.41–0.70; Controls: rho-value 0.41–0.75) was observed for mean amplitude in relation to a functional sit-to-stand test, abdominal circumference, BMI, back pain, and quality-of-life.ConclusionsThe results of applying SEMG during isometric abdominal muscle support practicing the method in clinics, although additional development is needed with further standardization and more functional testing. Furthermore, the method demonstrates construct validity in patients with ARD and in age- and sex-matched controls.

Present but Ignored: Physical Condition and Health-Related Quality of Life in College-Aged Females with Generalized Joint Hypermobility.

Generalized joint hypermobility (GJH) is prevalent among young adults, necessitating effective monitoring of musculoskeletal health, particularly among college-aged females. This study aimed to identify physical fitness and health-related quality of life (HR-QoL) characteristics associated with GJH. A total of 67 participants were assessed: 26 with GJH (mean age 20.06, SD 1.2 years), and 41 without (mean age 20.15, SD 2.2 years). Assessments included hypermobility, anthropometric data, foot posture, balance, flexibility, strength, and HR-QoL. We used the Mann-Whitney test for two independent samples, categorical variables were analyzed with Cramer's V test. The results indicated that participants with GJH exhibited inferior balance and back muscle static strength endurance but greater flexibility compared to those without GJH. Significant differences were observed in foot posture. However, handgrip strength, explosive strength, and abdominal muscle static strength endurance did not differ significantly between groups. No significant differences were observed in HR-QoL components between the two groups. In conclusion, there appears to be a link between GJH and increased flexibility, impaired balance, reduced back muscle static strength endurance, and altered posture of both feet.