Investigation of the relationship between core endurance and upper extremity function, muscle strength, and reaction time in healthy young adults

BackgroundCore endurance is important for daily activities and sports performance and may affect extremity function. However, the relationship between core endurance and upper extremity function is poorly understood.ObjectiveTo investigate the relationship between core endurance and upper extremity function, muscle strength, and reaction time in healthy young adults.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted with 104 healthy young adults (21.88 ± 1.92 years, 60 female, 44 male). Core endurance was assessed using Sorensen, trunk flexor endurance, and side bridge test. Shoulder muscle strength, upper extremity hand dexterity (Purdue Pegboard Test (PPT)), and reaction time were assessed. Spearman correlation analysis was used for statistical analysis.ResultsThe core endurance tests were found to be positively correlated with shoulder flexor and abductor muscles (p < 0.05). There were weak negative correlations between Sorensen and trunk flexor endurance tests and dominant hand reaction time (r = -0.230, p = 0.019; r = -0.253, p = 0.010). The Sorensen test was found to be associated with bilateral PPT and total scores (r = 0.257, p = 0.008; r = 0.251, p = 0.010).ConclusionsIncreased core endurance was associated with increased shoulder muscle strength, dexterity, and reaction speed. Assessing core endurance provides better insight into upper extremity function difficulties. Therefore, improving core strength may contribute to improving upper extremity function.