Comparison of the effects of core stability and whole-body electromyostimulation exercises on kyphosis angle and core muscle endurance of inactive people with hyper kyphosis: A quasi-experimental pre-post study

Abstract

Objective: Restoring the degree of kyphosis to be consistent with good sagittal alignment of the spine is a key concern. This study aimed to compare the effect of core stability exercises (CSE) versus whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) and a combined program (PLUS) on kyphosis angle and core muscle endurance in sedentary individuals with hyperkyphosis.

Design: A quasi-experimental single group pre-post study.

Settings: Laboratory of corrective exercise.

Participants: seventy-five untrained men (28.9 ± 5.3 years) with thoracic hyperkyphosis.

Main outcome measures: A flexible ruler was used to measure the angle of kyphosis and McGill's test was used to evaluate core stability.

Results: The results of the post hoc test demonstrated that the kyphosis angle was improved in the WB-EMS and PLUS groups compared to that in the CG (P < 0.05), but no significant difference was observed among the three groups(P > 0.05). In the post-test, core stability was significantly improved in CSE, WB-EMS and PLUS groups compared to that in the CG.

Conclusions: The WB-EMS and PLUS protocols as new training methods seem to be effective in changing posture parameters and correcting postural deformities, including kyphosis. Therefore, these protocols along with other rehabilitation programs can be used to correct kyphosis and improve core muscle endurance.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov TCTR20221004011.

Keywords: Electrical stimulation therapy; Exercise training; Kyphosis; Posture; Spine.