Evaluation of trunk muscle activities in response to three breastfeeding positions utilised by women

High prevalence of breastfeeding (BF)-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in nursing mothers have been reported in previous studies. Studies are scarce on the biomechanical effects of the commonly utilized BF positions. This study evaluated the electromyographic (EMG) activities of the trunk mu...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of back and musculoskeletal rehabilitation 2021-01, Vol.34 (6), p.1015-1021
Main Authors: Petronilla, Ojukwu Chidiebele, Antoninius, Ezeukwu Obinna, Faith, Anih Chinagozim, Justina, Okemuo Adaora, Anthonia, Ezugwu Uchechukwu, Nneka, Ikele Chioma, Paulinus, Igweagu Chukwuma, Eneje, Ezugwu Lazarus
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Biomechanics
Breast feeding
Breastfeeding & lactation
Electromyography
Muscles
Muscular system
Musculoskeletal diseases
Statistical analysis
Womens health
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Summary:High prevalence of breastfeeding (BF)-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in nursing mothers have been reported in previous studies. Studies are scarce on the biomechanical effects of the commonly utilized BF positions. This study evaluated the electromyographic (EMG) activities of the trunk muscles in response to three BF positions commonly utilized by mothers globally. 20 non-pregnant nulliparous females participated in this experimental study. EMG activities from erector spinae (ES) and external oblique (EO) muscles were recorded bilaterally in three BF conditions: cradle (C1); cross-cradle (C2); football (FB). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics of one-way analysis of variance with alpha level set at 0.05. The activity levels of right EO and ES muscles significantly increased during the C2 hold, while the left EO and ES muscles revealed significantly higher EMG levels in the C1 trial. Asymmetrical activity between the right and the left parts of the EO muscle was significantly higher during the C2 hold. These findings suggest that compared to C2 and C1 holds, FB hold may be more biomechanically efficient relative to its decreased muscular demands. The physical stresses associated with BF may be higher with the adoption of C2 and C1 holds, especially for prolonged periods.
ISSN:1053-8127
1878-6324
DOI:10.3233/BMR-200018