Influence of Differences in the Pattern of Trunk Muscle Contraction during Motor Tasks Using a Stretch Pole on Lateral Abdominal Muscle Thickness

Abstract

[Purpose] To clarify the influence of motor tasks using a stretch pole on lateral abdominal muscle thickness. [Subjects and Methods] The thicknesses of the lateral abdominal muscles (transverse, internal oblique, and external oblique muscles) were measured using an ultrasound diagnostic imaging device in 44 healthy young individuals without motor disorders. During the measurement, the participants performed 4 motor tasks: resting expiration, maximal expiration, the abdominal drawing-in maneuver, and bracing in the supine position on a stretch pole. [Results] On examining the thicknesses of the lateral abdominal muscles, interactions between pole use and trunk movements were observed in the transverse and internal oblique muscles. The muscle thickness increased through the motor tasks on a stretch pole, and the increase was the most marked when performing the abdominal drawing-in maneuver and bracing. [Conclusion] Motor tasks involving the trunk on a stretch pole may increase lateral abdominal muscle thickness.