• The Journal of Korean Physical Therapy
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• v.28 no.6
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• pp.393-397
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• 2016

Purpose: This study was conducted in an effort to determine the effects of various abdominal drawing-in maneuver (ADIM) on the thickness and length of the transversus abdominis (TrA) when using lumbar stabilization exercises on healthy adults. Methods: 72 healthy adults were divided into four groups of 18 subjects each, to which different ADIM methods were applied. 1) a simple ADIM exercise, 2) an ADIM with pressure bio-feedback units, 3) an ADIM exercise with sling, and 4) an ADIM exercise with sling and vibration. Changes in the thickness and sliding length of TrA were measured when ADIM was conducted in the supine position prior to exercise and again when beginning the exercises. Following exercise, changes in the thickness and sliding length of TrA were measured using the same methods. Differences in group measurements prior to and following exercise were compared using a one-way analysis of variance. A paired t-test was applied to compare the before and after differences within each group. Results: Differences in TrA thickness change revealed that the ADIM exercise with sling and vibration group showed a significant difference in measurements taken prior to and following exercise. Differences in TrA length change revealed that the ADIM exercise with sling and vibration group showed a significant difference in measurements taken prior to and following exercise. Conclusion: ADIM exercise with vibration stimulation conducted in the bridge posture while in a prone position using a sling can be recommended as an effective exercise to improve the function of lumbar TrA.