The effects of the menstrual cycle on core stability
Item
- Title
- The effects of the menstrual cycle on core stability
- Author(s)
- Nella Claudia
- Abstract
-
Introduction: Low back pain is common in the general population and may often result from reduced spinal stability, probably due to reduced function of the spinal stability system (Transversus Abdominis and Multifidus). Core stability training is a specific sub maximal exercise method based on the re education of the co-ordination of the spinal stability system where an increased proprioceptive awareness and motor control provides a stable base of support from which functional movements can be made. As such, research has shown that core stability training reduces the severity and recurrence of low back pain.
Low back pain has also been commonly associated with fluctuating hormonal levels and the Oral contraceptive pill. Many studies have looked at the effects of hormones on low back pain and athletic performance, but there have been no studies that have looked at the effects of the menstrual cycle on core stability.
Objectives: To investigate variations in core stability across the menstrual cycle.
Study Design: A repeated measures observational study.
Method: 18 healthy asymptomatic female undergraduate osteopathic students participated in the study. Core stability was measured in two supine exercises on both legs, using the pressure biofeedback unit (Chattanooga). Measurements were taken over the four weekly phases of one menstrual cycle. Women were divided into 2 groups of 9 subjects each according to oral contraceptive pill status.
Results: A one way repeated measures ANOVA revealed statistically significant difference in core stability success rates between weeks, (P<0.0001) regardless of OCP status. A post hoc test revealed that success rate during menstruation was significantly less than other weeks (P<0.001).
Conclusion: The subjects regardless of OCP status had reduced lumbopelvic stability during menstruation. Tonic stabilising muscles, such as Transversus Abdominis have the ability to become inhibited as a result of increased afferent drive to the spinal cord. Therefore it can be suggested that during menstruation nociceptive input from the uterus or uterine tubes, that share the same nerve roots as Transversus Abdominis, may result in increased afferent drive and alter the outflow to the muscles causing them to undergo "reflex inhibition" resulting in spinal instability - presented at
- British College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Date Accepted
- 0
- Date Submitted
- 1.1.1970 00:00:00
- Type
- osteo_thesis
- Language
- English
- Submitted by:
- 62
- Pub-Identifier
- 13684
- Inst-Identifier
- 1076
- Recommended
- 0
- Item sets
- Thesis
Nella Claudia, “The effects of the menstrual cycle on core stability”, Osteopathic Research Web, accessed April 19, 2024, https://www.osteopathic-research.com/s/orw/item/1073