Final answer:
The maneuver involving drawing the navel toward the spine activates the transversus abdominis for core stabilization. This muscle aids in good posture and is part of the body's mechanism for standing upright. Testing abdominal reflexes can offer insights into the health of the thoracic segments of the spinal cord.
Step-by-step explanation:
A maneuver used to recruit the local core stabilizers by drawing the navel in toward the spine generally refers to the activation of the transversus abdominis. This muscle is a deep layer of the abdomen that plays a critical role in maintaining good posture and stabilizing the core by compressing the abdominal organs. Along with other core muscles, like the trapezius which stabilizes the upper back, the transversus abdominis helps to balance the body and maintain its upright position.
Testing reflexes in the abdomen is not a common practice, but when performed, it can help identify issues with certain spinal cord segments, particularly the thoracic area. A lack of contraction when the skin lateral to the umbilicus is stimulated might indicate a possible damage or issue at that level of the spinal cord.