How the Diaphragm Affects Performance and Back Pain in Elite Weightlifters

What’s This Research About?

This study investigates the diaphragm’s role in elite weightlifters, comparing those with chronic low back pain (LBP) to those without. It explores how diaphragm function impacts both back health and sports performance in lifts like the snatch, clean and jerk.

Low back pain (LBP) is common among elite weightlifters, affecting 54% to 85% of them annually. This can reduce performance and cause lasting problems. 

The diaphragm, known for its role in breathing, is also important for stabilizing the spine during heavy lifts. It attaches to the first three lumbar vertebrae and helps increase spine stiffness while supporting both posture and breathing. This dual function makes it a potential key player in preventing LBP and improving performance.

Previous research has shown that people with LBP often have weaker diaphragm muscles, with reduced thickness and movement, compared to those without LBP. However, most studies have focused on the general population and not on elite weightlifters, who face unique physical demands. In addition, the connection between diaphragm function and lifting performance is unclear. This study aims to fill that gap by examining how chronic LBP affects diaphragm function in elite weightlifters and how this impacts their performance in the snatch, clean and jerk lifts.

Hypothesis: The researchers hypothesize that weightlifters with LBP will have weaker diaphragms and that better diaphragm function will be linked to superior lifting performance.