Exploratory Associations Between Deep Core Muscle Function and Pulmonary Function Across GOLD Stages in Individuals...

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Medicine
• Rehabilitation Science
• Kinesiology

Background:

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is linked to diaphragm dysfunction and reduced functional capacity.
• Altered deep core muscle function may compromise postural stability and functional performance in COPD patients.
• Objective assessment of deep core muscle activation across COPD severity is underexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore associations between deep core muscle function and pulmonary function parameters in COPD patients.
• To investigate these associations across different Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) stages.
• Utilize a Pressure Biofeedback Unit (PBU) for objective deep core muscle function assessment.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional exploratory study of 84 individuals with COPD.
• Pulmonary function measured via spirometry (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC).
• Deep core muscle function assessed using PBU during Abdominal Drawing-In Maneuver (ADIM).

Main Results:

• Significant negative correlations found between deep core muscle function and pulmonary function parameters (FEV1/FVC, FEV1, FVC).
• Mean PBU pressure values progressively increased across GOLD stages, indicating poorer function with increased severity.
• Exploratory analysis showed variable correlations across GOLD stages, requiring cautious interpretation due to small subgroup sizes.

Conclusions:

• Deep core muscle function assessed by PBU shows an exploratory association with pulmonary function in COPD.
• Poorer deep abdominal muscle activation was observed in participants with greater airflow limitation.
• Findings suggest a potential link between COPD severity and altered deep core muscle activation, warranting further hypothesis-generating research.