Do the diaphragm release and thoracic thrust contribute to improvement of inspiratory muscle function and plantar pressure in trained men and women?

Abstract

Introduction: Manual therapy techniques (MT) are considered an efficient method for the assessment and treatment of disorders of the musculoskeletal system in clinical practice. However, studies on the use and effectiveness of these techniques on respiratory function and body stability in trained individuals are still scarce in the literature. Objective: The purpose of this investigation was to compare differences in inspiratory muscle strength and plantar pressure distribution between males and females practitioners of resistance exercise post-manual therapy. Methods: Thirty participants were selected (15 males and 15 females) that complied with the eligibility criteria. All participants were practitioners of resistance exercise and underwent two evaluations in inspiratory muscle strength test and two evaluations baropodometry platform (static conditions) pre and post-manual therapy in diaphragm muscle (MTDM) and thoracic spine thrust (TST), respectively. All tests were performed in a single assessment session to assess maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), peak inspiratory flow (PIF), plantar surface area (cm2), plantar pressure distribution (%), maximum peak pressure, and mean pressure (kgf/cm²). Results: The two-way ANOVA showed a significant improved of the MIP and PIF (p<.003) in male and female post-manual therapy. In relation to stability condition, significant difference (p<.001) was observed in plantar surface area (cm2) between males vs. females group pre and post-manual therapy. But females showed significant increase and decrease in right forefoot (p<.01) and hindfoot (p<.03) post-manual therapy, respectively. Conclusion: These finding confirm increase of the MIP and PIF in males and females post-manual therapy. In addition, right foot female showed increase plantar surface area and distribution of the plantar surface area revealed an increase and decrease in forefoot and hindfoot post-manual therapy, respectively. These data contribute to the qualitative and quantitative understanding of sex differences in inspiratory muscle strength and stability condition with using of the manual therapy.