Trunk Flexibility and Arterial Stiffness: A Review
Author Information
Author(s): Cavero-Redondo Iván, Fonseca Helder, Otero-Luis Iris, Bohn Lucimere, Lever-Megina Carla Geovanna, Moreno-Herraiz Nerea, Saz-Lara Alicia
Primary Institution: Facultad de Enfermería de Cuenca, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
Hypothesis
This study aimed to analyze the overall relationship between trunk flexibility and arterial stiffness across different age groups and according to sex.
Conclusion
Poor trunk flexibility is linked to elevated arterial stiffness across diverse demographic groups, highlighting its potential as a surrogate marker for cardiovascular health.
Supporting Evidence
- Five studies involving 2797 participants were included.
- Poor trunk flexibility was associated with increased arterial stiffness compared to high flexibility.
- Subgroup analyses revealed significant associations predominantly in men and older individuals.
- Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the findings.
- No evidence of publication bias was found.
Takeaway
If you can't bend well, your blood vessels might be stiffer, which isn't good for your heart.
Methodology
A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following the MOOSE and JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis on systematic reviews of etiology and risk guidelines.
Potential Biases
Some studies had a fair risk of bias due to lack of sample size justification and blinding.
Limitations
Variability in definitions of trunk flexibility and lack of detailed information on participants' physical activity levels.
Participant Demographics
Participants included healthy adults aged 24-72 years from Japan and Korea.
Statistical Information
P-Value
-0.27
Confidence Interval
95% CI: -0.39, -0.14
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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