Comparison of lumbopelvic and dynamic stability between dancers and non-dancers

ObjectiveTo compare lumbopelvic stability between dancers and non-dancers by assessing lumbopelvic motor control, abdominal muscles automatic-activation, lumbar range of motion and dynamic stability.DesignCross-sectional.SettingUniversity/superior-dance-conservatory.ParticipantsTwenty-two dancers and 22 non-dancers.Main outcome measurementsThe active straight leg raise test (ASLR) was used to test lumbopelvic motor control with pressure feedback (mmHg). Transversus, rectus anterior and internal oblique muscles thicknesses were measured at rest and ASLR. For dynamic stability, the modified Star Excursion Balance Test (mSEBT) was employed.ResultsSignificant differences were revealed in lumbopelvic motor control between groups (p < 0.001). Abdominal muscles automatic-activation showed no differences between the groups. There were significant differences in the mSEBT for most of the test's directions, with dancers performing better than the non-dancers (p < 0.05). For the dancers, there were positive associations between motor control and dynamic stability, and between abdominal muscle thickness and mSEBT. For non-dancers, the rectus anterior activation correlated with the mSEBT.ConclusionsThe dancers had better lumbopelvic motor control, dynamic stability and lumbar movements except in terms of extension, as compared with non-dancers. Therefore, this novel study could stimulate a new line of research to determine the influence of these outcomes on sports performance, prevention and injury rehabilitation.