Isokinetic evaluation of the musculature involved in trunk flexion and extension: Pilates© method effect

Abstract

Trunk extensors and flexors muscles imbalance is strong indication of the etiology of low back pain. The aim of the present study was to verify the effect of Pilates© method upon trunk flexors and extensors isokinetic function. To do so, we selected 20 volunteers (16 women 34.06 ± 7.21 yrs; 4 men 33.5 ± 6.68 yrs) capable to perform the intermediate-advanced level of Pilates© method (25 sessions) during 12 weeks. Trunk extensor function was improved in all parameters evaluated (peak torque - 25%, p = 0.0004; total work - 28%, p = 0.0002; average power - 30%, p = 0.0002; set total work performed - 21%, p = 0.002). Trunk extensors showed a slight increase in total work (10%, p = 0.0003) and set total work performed (10%, p = 0.002). The trunk flexors:extensors ratio were decreased after Pilates© training (peak torque - 24%, p = 0.0001; total work - 23%, p = 0.002; average power - 25%, p = 0.01; set total work performed - 14%, p = 0.04). The Pilates© method seemed to be an efficient tool to strengthen the trunk extensors muscles, thus attenuating the imbalance between the muscles involved in trunk extension and flexion.