THE EFFECT OF LUMBAR SUPPORT BELTS ON ISOMETRIC FORCE PRODUCTION DURING A SIMULATED LIFT

The use of back support belts by industrial workers has become common in recent years. The rationale for the use of these belts is based on the theory that they increase intra-abdominal pressure. Raised intra-a bdominal pressure is believed to reduce compression forces on the spin al column and to assist the back extensor muscles in producing extensi on torque The assistance of the belt is believed to protect the spine from injury. Thirty males and thirty females participated in this stud y which assessed the effect of two different back support belts (one s ynthetic and one leather) on isometric muscle-force production of indi viduals performing a static leg lift (SLL). A Latin Square double cros s-over design was employed Analysis of variance tests revealed that in males the use of the synthetic belt allowed for greater force product ion than a control trial, but no difference could be detected between the leather belt and either the synthetic belt or the control. In the female group, no difference in force production occurred across the th ree conditions. Implications and suggestions for further study are dis cussed.