Our abdominal muscles are true workhorses. They play a crucial role in almost every movement we make, providing stability, balance, and protection for our spine and internal organs.
However, certain health conditions and even unnecessary tension in these muscles can throw them off balance. This can lead to a condition known as “hourglass syndrome,” which causes a visible crease in the mid-abdomen and can have negative effects on the body if left untreated.
There are four main causes of hourglass syndrome, all of which disrupt the function of the abdominal muscles.
The first cause is certain congenital conditions that affect the development of the abdominal muscles, leading to imbalances.
Poor posture is another culprit. It alters the natural curvature of the spine, resulting in detrimental changes to the tension and function of the abdominal muscles.
Pain in the abdomen, whether from stomach, liver, or gallbladder issues, can also cause a person to contract their abdominal muscles in an attempt to reduce or avoid pain.
Surprisingly, body image issues can also contribute to hourglass syndrome. People who desire a flat stomach may constantly suck in their stomach muscles to achieve the desired appearance.
Muscle Imbalance
When we suck in our stomach, it causes the top muscles of the abdomen to be more active, creating a fold or crease in the abdomen over time. This can lead to increased pressure on the lower back and neck as they compensate for changes in core stability.
The compression of the abdomen also reduces the space available for the abdominal organs, affecting breathing and putting strain on the pelvic floor muscles.
While the long-term effects of hourglass syndrome on breathing capacity are still uncertain, research on abdominal strapping suggests that it can decrease lung capacity and make exercise more challenging.
Sucking in the abdomen can also strain the pelvic floor, potentially causing issues with bladder, uterus, and rectum function.
The good news is that hourglass syndrome is reversible. Strengthening all the core muscles through exercises like planks or bridges can help restore balance. Activities like yoga or pilates can also be beneficial in relaxing the muscles.
It’s important to note that occasional sucking in of the stomach is unlikely to cause problems. However, if you experience unexplained or prolonged abdominal pain, it’s best to seek medical advice to address any muscle imbalances and underlying causes.
Adam Taylor, Professor and Director of the Clinical Anatomy Learning Centre, Lancaster University
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
