Intervertebral Stiffness of the Spine Is Increased by Evoked Contraction of Transversus Abdominis and the Diaphragm: In Vivo Porcine Studies

Abstract

The results of these studies indicate that elevated intra-abdominal pressure, and contraction of diaphragm and transversus abdominis provide a mechanical contribution to the control of spinal intervertebral stiffness. Furthermore, the effect is modified by the muscular attachments to the spine.