Effects of abdominal bracing maneuver during walking on trunk muscle endurance in healthy staff of Northwest Institute: A randomized controlled pilot study

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to find the effect of abdominal bracing (AB) maneuver during walking on trunk muscle endurance in healthy individuals. Methods: A randomized control pilot study was conducted at Northwest Institute of Health Sciences Peshawar from July to December 2023. A total of 32 participants aged 25–40 were randomized to Groups A and B. Group A received AB maneuver with walking, while Group B received walking only. Both groups received a total of 12 sessions. Pre- and post-endurance testing was performed using McGill’s Torso Muscular Endurance Test. Results: The mean age of participants in Group A was 29.06 ± 5.14 years, while the mean age of participants in Group B was 27.62 ± 2.84 years. The mean and standard deviation of the flexor endurance test between Groups A and B after treatment were 27.37 ± 3.26 and 16.21 ± 2.24, respectively. A significant difference was observed in flexor endurance and right and left lateral flexor endurance between the two groups (P < 0.05). In contrast, no significant difference was observed in extensor endurance between the two groups, having P > 0.05. Within-group analysis in Group A revealed a significant difference in pre-post-intervention flexion, right and left lateral flexors, and extensors (P < 0.05). However, within-group analysis in Group B revealed a statistical difference in flexors endurance, which is not clinically significant. Conclusion: The AB maneuver with walking compared with walking alone may improve the endurance of the trunk flexors, specifically the right and left lateral flexors.