Overview
The transverse abdominis (TrA) is the deepest muscle layer of lateral and anterior abdominal wall and also known as a significant component of core stability. Abdominal draw-in maneuver (ADIM) is the main for the strengthening of the deep muscle, however, sufficient activation of TrA by ADIM is limited. Blood flow restriction (BFR) training is a technique combined with low intensity exercise that produces similar results to high intensity training. However, there is few evidences for BFR training on core muscles.
Healthy adults (age ranged 18-34 years and BMI between 18.5~24.99) were randomly recruited in the study. For the intervention group, an inflatable cuff (14 cm in width * 84 cm in length) is warped around abdominal muscles below ribs which may cause to at least 60% restriction of blood flow detected by Power Doppler ultrasonography. All participants are instructed to perform ADIM both condition of BFR and BFR-free twice a week, for six weeks. Outcome measurements include Double leg lowering test (DLLT) for muscle strength, brightness mode ultrasound (USD) for muscle hypertrophy and electromyography (EMG) muscle activation. The same physical therapist will do the measurement at first week, third week and the sixth week.
This study expects to provide a new alternative way to improve the muscle activation, strength and activation of transverse abdominis in abdominal draw-in maneuver combined with blood flow restriction
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Healthy subjects
- 20~35 years old
- BMI 18.5~24.99
Exclusion Criteria:
- Hypertension
- Have cardio-vascular disease
- Used to have abdominal operation or wound
- Have spinal surgeries or deformities
- Known neuromuscular or joint disease
- Pregnant