Assessment of the influence of global and local exercises on core stabilization mechanisms: randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Over the last few years, various concepts of applying core stabilization mechanisms in the formation of human motor function have come to existence. The objective of the research was to assess the influence of two types of core stability training on deep abdominal muscle thickness and on global trunk mobility. METHODS: The study involved 108 individuals divided into 3 groups: LT (local training), performing the stability training based on locally isolated work of the transversus abdominis muscle; GT (global training), performing the training based on global movement patterns; and CG (control group), who did not undergo the training. The workout programs comprised 4 weeks of the exercise, 4 times a week. The measurement of the observed muscle thickness was carried out by means of ultrasound imaging. Trunk mobility was evaluated based on the toe-touch test, as well as the measurement of lateral flexion ranges. All the measurements were performed before the workout programs, right after finishing and 2 weeks after the end of the training cycle. RESULTS: Both training concepts have an impact on deep abdominal muscle thickness; however, in the LT group, significant improvement was noted with regard to the transversus abdominis, whereas in the GT group the improvement concerned the external oblique muscle. Both training methods also improved trunk mobility in the sagittal and frontal plane. CONCLUSIONS: The results we have obtained imply that both concepts of core stability training affect the human body at a structural as well as functional level. The application of the described training methods may not only provide measurable benefits in the field of clinical physiotherapy, for instance in the treatment of spine-related back pain, but also in motor training designed to improve athletes' performance and to minimize the risk of injury.

Cervical Pain in Young Professional Musicians - Quality of Life.

BACKGROUND: The education of young musicians requires teaching them appropriate prophylaxis in order to avoid spinal overload and the development of postural defects. The aim of the study was to assess the quality of life of young musicians with cervical pain. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study involved a group of 45 young musicians divided into three subgroups depending on the musical instrument they played, namely the violin, cello and piano. The total follow-up period was 18 weeks. The patients were tested at 6-week intervals using the NDI, SF-36 and a VAS scale to assess pain intensity. RESULTS: The degree of disability was moderate in all the groups. The level of general physical health was the lowest in the cello group. Pain intensity was also moderate in all the groups. CONCLUSIONS: 1. Short-term follow-up revealed no changes in the quality of life of young musicians playing various instruments. 2. Prophylaxis should be implemented particularly in cellists.