Influence of trunk muscle co-contraction on spinal curvature during sitting

Slumped sitting is known to increase disc pressure and aggravate chronic low back pain. In addition, it has been recognized that co-contraction of the deep spine-stabilizing muscles enhances lumbar segmental stability and the sacro-iliac joint. The purpose of this study was to compare the electromyographic (EMG) activity of the trunk muscles and the muscle thickness of the transverse abdominis (TrA) during slumped sitting with the same parameters during co-contraction and investigate how co-contraction influences spinal curvature.

Nine healthy male volunteers participated in the study. EMG signals were recorded during both sitting postures. In order to measure the muscle thickness of the TrA, ultrasound images were captured. While the subjects performed both sitting postures, spinal curvature was measured using a hand-held device.

Significantly more activity of the trunk muscles, with the exception of the rectus abdominis muscle, and significantly greater muscle thickness of the TrA were observed during co-contraction of the trunk muscles than during slumped sitting. Co-contraction also resulted in significantly increased lumbar lordosis and a greater sacral angle when compared to slumped sitting.

In this study, it was demonstrated that the instructions given to the subjects on co-contraction of the trunk muscles during sitting increased muscle activity with the exception of the rectus abdominis muscle, muscle thickness of the TrA, and lumbar lordosis.