Evaluation of Activation of Transverse Abdominis Muscle among Indian Youths Using the Deep Muscle Contraction Scale – A Cross-sectional Study
S. Jeyanthi, M. A. Mohamed Ariffsha, B. S. SrinidhiBackground:
Low back pain (LBP) is a significant public health concern in India, particularly among youths, with a lifetime prevalence of 66%. Dysfunction of the transverse abdominis(TrA) muscle, a key stabilizer of the lumbopelvic region, is associated with LBP. Limited data exist on TrA activation among Indian youths, necessitating targeted research.
Objective:
The objective of this study was to evaluate TrA muscle activation using the deep muscle contraction (DMC) scale and compare contraction quality, substitution, symmetry, breathing, and holding between male and female Indian youths aged 15–29 years.
Methodology:
A cross sectional study was conducted at Sri Venkateshwara Group of Institutions over 6 months, involving 384 participants (192 males, 192 females). Exclusion criteria included existing LBP, recent disc issues, surgeries, or congenital spinal conditions. Anthropometric measurements (height, weight, body mass index) were recorded. Participants performed the abdominal drawing in maneuver, and TrA activation was assessed via the DMC scale, scoring quality of contraction (0–3), substitution (0–3), symmetry (0–2), breathing (0–1), and holding (0–1). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and unpaired t tests (significance at
Results:
The mean DMC score was 5.23 (standard deviation [SD]: 3.53) out of 10. Males had a mean score of 5.44 (SD: 3.57), and females 5.02 (SD: 3.49). The mean component scores were quality of contraction (1.41, SD: 1.08), substitution (1.62, SD: 1.16), symmetry (0.86, SD: 0.89), breathing (0.66, SD: 0.47), and holding (0.66, SD: 0.47). No significant gender differences were observed (P > 0.05). Anthropometric data showed males had higher mean height (1.7 m vs. 1.58 m), weight (66.7 kg vs. 54.1 kg), and BMI (22.8 vs. 21.73) than females.
Conclusion:
Indian youths exhibit moderate TrA activation, with no significant gender differences in DMC Scale components. These findings underscore the need for interventions to enhance TrA function and core stability to mitigate LBP risk in this population.