Transversus abdominis activation is similar in healthy and unhealthy individuals

Abstract

Introduction: The transversus abdominis seems to be the key stabilizing muscle of the back, and its dysfunctions are associated with the development of low back pain (LBP). Objective: To compare the activation of the transversus abdominis and back muscle strength between self-reported healthy individuals, individuals with non-specific LBP, and individuals with disc herniation. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study carried out with male individuals intentionally divided into: healthy group (HG), non-specific LBP group (LBPG), and herniated disc group (HDG). The outcomes evaluated were pain, flexibility, disability, back muscle strength and transversus abdominis activation. Results: Thirty individuals were selected. Regarding the activation of the transversus abdominis, 60% of the HG had excellent activation, while for the LBPG and HDG it was only 30% and 20%, respectively. However, there were no significant differences between groups (p = 0.155). For strength, both the LBPG and the HDG were different compared to the HG (p = 0.028 and p = 0.045, respectively). Conclusion: The activation of the transversus abdominis seems to be similar between healthy individuals, individuals with non-specific LBP, and those with disc herniation. However, individuals with a herniated disc had less strength and greater disability.