The significance of intra-abdominal pressure on postural stabilization: low back pain case report

Abstract

Intra-abdominal pressure is a hydraulic pressure within the abdominal cavity. Previous studies confirmed its
direct association with both spinal stability and spinal unloading. The literature review part of the paper
summarizes intra-abdominal pressure physiology and pathophysiology and explains the underlying
mechanisms of intra-abdominal pressure regulation and its effects on the human body, especially spinal
stability. Current methods of invasive and non-invasive intra-abdominal pressure measurement are described
in detail. Second part of a paper presents a case report of a competitive athlete suffering from low back pain.
The functional assessment and treatment focused on quality of patient’s trunk stabilization. Training
following principles of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization resulted in better ability to activate abdominal
wall muscles which is a critical mechanism of intra-abdominal pressure regulation and in this case caused
significant low back pain reduction. The effect of the therapy was evaluated by DNS Brace which measures
activity of the abdominal wall, thus intra-abdominal pressure indirectly, along with clinical Dynamic
Neuromuscular Stabilization assessment tests.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24040/sjss.2021.7.2.3-18