Journal of Novel Physiotherapies
Open Access

Abstract

The pelvic floor has a fundamental role for postural control, proper breathing, and core function. The coordinated activity of the diaphragm, lumbar spine, abdominals and pelvic floor musculature influence postural control by regulating intraabdominal pressure and by increasing tension in the thoracolumbar fascia. Based on this synergy, a variety of alternative pelvic floor muscle training programs have been proposed to enhance core and pelvic floor function. Hypopressive training (HT) is a breathing and postural exercise technique used in Europe for postnatal recovery and treatment of commonly encountered pelvic floor dysfunction including pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence. HT is performed via short bouts of breath holding and inspiratory muscle contraction maneuvers interspersed with slow, deep breathing while maintaining different body positions. The bouts of breath holding are performed with a low lung volume which impacts the cardiovascular response due to a decrease in breathing frequency and oxygen saturation. HT focuses on elongation of the vertebral spine and pelvis with isometric and eccentric muscle actions through specific postures. The visceral decompression that is exerted due to the diaphragmatic aspiration during HT has been shown to contribute to urethrovesical angle mobilization and an increase in vascularization and thickness of the transverse abdominis & levator ani muscle. HT may be an alternative exercise program to retrain the core, restore pelvic floor function and improve respiratory function. Additional research is needed to examine the physiological effects of HT and the use of this training technique in fitness and rehabilitation centers.

Biography

Email: tzinn@coresetfitness.com