Effects of a Belt on Intra-Abdominal Pressure during Weight Lifting

摘要

Intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) has been widely hypothesized to reduce potentially injurious compressive forces on spinal discs during lifting. To investigate the effects of a standard lifting belt on IAP and lifting mechanics, IAP and vertical ground reaction force (GRF) were monitored by computer using a catheter transducer and force plate while 9 subjects aged 28.2 +or- 6.6 yrs. dead-lifted a barbell both with and without a lifting belt at 90% of maximum. Both IAP and GRF rose sharply from the time force was first exerted on the bar until shortly after it left the floor, after which force usually plateaued while IAP either plateaued or declined. IAP rose significantly (p<.05) earlier with than without the belt. When the belt was worn, but not without it, IAP rose significantly sooner than did GRF. Variables significantly higher with than without a belt included peak IAP, area under the IAP vs. time curve from start of IAP rise to lift-off, peak rate of IAP increase after start of IAP plateau, and average pressure from lift-off to lift completion. In contrast, average rate of IAP increase before start of IAP plateau was significantly lower with the belt. Correlations provide additional information about relationships between variables. Results suggest the use of a lifting belt increases IAP, which may reduce disc compressive force and improve lifting safety.