The Effects of Core Stability Training with and without Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Improving Lumbopelvic Control, Landing Mechanics, and Balance in Martial Artists with Trunk Defects

Introduction:This study aimed to investigate the effect of adding transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to core stability training (CST) on lumbar-pelvic control, landing mechanics, and balance in martial arts with trunk defects.Materials and Methods: The present study is a semi-experimental study with a pre-test-post-test design, which included 30 martial arts with trunk defects randomly divided into two groups: experimental (active-tDCS + CST (n=15) and sham (CST + deactive-tDCS (n=15) groups.Trunk defect data were collected by the Tuck jump test, lumbopelvic control through a biofeedback pressure device, dynamic balance with the Y test, and landing mechanics through the landing error scoring system.After the pre-tests, the subjects underwent the study interventions for 4 weeks.Immediately after the completion of the interventions, the post-test was performed.Results: The findings demonstrated significant improvements in lumbopelvic control and landing mechanics from pre-test to post-test in the intervention group, as revealed by between-group comparisons.In contrast, the sham group did not show significant changes in balance during the post-test phase.Moreover, significant differences were observed between the groups in lumbopelvic control, landing mechanics, and balance measures at post-test, indicating the positive effect of the intervention. Conclusion:The results of this study suggest that tDCS may enhance the effectiveness of CST, leading to notable improvements in lumbopelvic control and landing mechanics.These enhancements may contribute to injury prevention and the optimization of athletic performance.