Study of the evaluation of the spine and posture with the spinal mouse to verify any changes induced by physical exercise performed with the aelastic instrument: A pilot study

Background: The aeLASTIC training method is a functional training in orthostatic position. It was first described in 2016 as a mechanical application of the Lyapunov Stability (LME) law. The aeLASTIC tool allows working on muscle balance to improve postural balance. Aim of the Study: The application of aeLASTIC training can introduce a proprioception to maintain the body in a steady posture after using this training in a 20-minute workout twice a week for two weeks. Methods: This is a pilot study with 24 healthy students (18-25 years old of Perugia University Department of Medicine and Surgery- Sport Science, males and females) which were divided into two random groups (12 students each). Group A had been proposed a 20-minute aeLASTIC training workout twice a week for a period of two weeks. All the subjects were evaluated with a Spinal Mouse, which allows scientific respect for research: repetitiveness of the test, non-invasive, rapid execution, and immediate evaluation. The two evaluations were proposed at the beginning of the class and 45 days later. During the experiment, two measurements were examined during a Mathias test: one of the total segment in sagittal position; the other one of the lumbar segment, also in sagittal position. The data collected was compared between the two groups: group A, those who have exercised with the aeLASTIC training and group B, the control group. The data was gathered with a two-tailed Student’s t-test. Variations were analyzed by paired Student’s t-test. Statistical significance was accepted at a 0.05 level of probability. Data were analyzed by SPSS statistical software, version 22.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Results: The comparative study of Group A (aeLASTIC training) and Group B (controls) showed a significant difference in the post test value in scores between the two at P=0.0001. There is an improvement in training in the total segment during the Mathias test. Also an improvement of the lumbar segment during the Mathias test between Group A and Group B was observed, showing an improvement in both groups. However, when comparing the data, a superior reduction of lumbar segment in Group A (aeLASTIC training) can be seen. Conclusion: 20 minutes of work with aeLASTIC training, twice a week for two weeks in orthostatic position, have a positive effect on the spine and posture and to activate the abdominal muscles.