Abstract

Background: Theoretical mode of spinal stability and core stability has been introduced previously, which has proceeded to rehabilitative approaches. We have focused on physical flexibility and exercise function, and firstly devised an original pole exercise in sitting position that can be done simply and cost-effectively.
Subjects and Methods: The subjects 11 healthy young adults, 27.0 ± 5.6 years old. Methods included the intervention of pole exercise with Exercise of the thorax, lower thoracic vertebrae and pelvis, upper thoracic vertebrae and pelvis. Before and after the exercise, we investigated examinations. Tests of physical flexibility were Wing Test, Thomas Test, Shoulder Extension Test, straight leg raise (SLR), Body warp prone position, Heel Buttock Distance (HBD) and Finger Floor Distance (FFD). Tests of exercise functions were Back Muscle Strength (BMS), Weight Bearing Index (WBI), Functional Reach Test (FRT) and closed eye leg standing time.
Results: The data of 7 flexibility tests and 4 exercise function tests revealed the significant differences between before and after the pole exercise (p<0.05). These tests would cover detail aspects of several human abilities in physiotherapy.
Discussion and Conclusion: In current study, pole exercise seems to be clinically simple and easy method to perform. These results suggested that pole exercise including 6 movements would have clinical efficacy as to physical flexibility and exercise function in short period. Currently obtained data could become fundamental data for clinical application and research development in the future.

Keywords: Pole exercise; Body changes; Physical flexibility; Exercise function; Vertebrae; Spine curvature