Exercise for improving lateral abdominal muscle impairments: a feasibility study protocol

Conference Contribution ResearchOnline@JCU
Prentice, C.;Milanese, S.;Massy-Westropp, N.;Flavell, C.
Abstract

Aim: To outline a research protocol to evaluate feasibility of an exercise framework designed to improve lateral abdominal muscle impairments. Design: Feasibility study protocol developed from reviews, clinical practice guidelines, and a Delphi study consulting expert clinicians. Method: Persistent lower back pain participants with lateral abdominal muscle impairments will be randomised to an intervention or active control group. Both groups will complete a clinically reasoned individualised 12-week exercise rehabilitation intervention. This will be prescribed by a physiotherapist based on a recently developed framework using a combined motor control, resistance, and cardiovascular focus. Additionally, the intervention group will incorporate individual participants’ activity preferences into their prescription. Results: The primary feasibility outcomes will consider recruitment rates, attrition, compliance and satisfaction with the program (using a survey and semi-structured interviews). Secondary outcomes will consider the program’s effect on lateral abdominal muscle thickness and activation (ultrasound imaging, pressure biofeedback, deep muscle contraction scale, muscle endurance test battery), pain (numeric rating scale), disability (Roland Morris disability questionnaire), physical activity (International physical activity questionnaire short form), function (pain specific functional scale) and lumbar instability (lumbar instability questionnaire). Conclusion: This study will provide preliminary insights into the effect of patient activity preference on prescribed physiotherapy and will inform the feasibility of conducting a large scale randomised controlled trial. Key practice points: • Current evidence indicates therapeutic exercise should incorporate patient preferences • This study will test patient satisfaction and compliance with incorporating patient preferred exercise • A protocol for individualising exercise for patients with lateral abdominal muscle is described

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Ignite 2023 Physiotherapy Conference

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1

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Brisbane, QLD, Australia

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Australian Physiotherapy Association

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Brisbane, QLD, Australia

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