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11 pages, 452 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Adiponectin Is a Contributing Factor of Low Appendicular Lean Mass in Older Community-Dwelling Women: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Leonardo Augusto Costa Teixeira, Jousielle Marcia dos Santos, Adriana Netto Parentoni, Liliana Pereira Lima, Tamiris Campos Duarte, Franciane Pereira Brant, Camila Danielle Cunha Neves, Fabiana Souza Máximo Pereira, Núbia Carelli Pereira Avelar, Ana Lucia Danielewicz, Amanda Aparecida Oliveira Leopoldino, Sabrina Paula Costa, Arthur Nascimento Arrieiro, Luana Aparecida Soares, Ana Caroline Negreiros Prates, Juliana Nogueira Pontes Nobre, Alessandra de Carvalho Bastone, Vinicius Cunha de Oliveira, Murilo Xavier Oliveira, Pedro Henrique Scheidt Figueiredo, Henrique Silveira Costa, Vanessa Amaral Mendonça, Redha Taiar and Ana Cristina Rodrigues Lacerda Show full author list Hide full author list

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(23), 7175; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11237175 - 2 Dec 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2097

Abstract

inflammaging is a chronic, sterile, low-grade inflammation that develops with advanced age in the absence of overt infection and may contribute to the pathophysiology of sarcopenia, a progressive and generalized skeletal muscle disorder. Furthermore, a series of biomarkers linked to sarcopenia occurrence have [...] Read more.

inflammaging is a chronic, sterile, low-grade inflammation that develops with advanced age in the absence of overt infection and may contribute to the pathophysiology of sarcopenia, a progressive and generalized skeletal muscle disorder. Furthermore, a series of biomarkers linked to sarcopenia occurrence have emerged. To aid diagnostic and treatment strategies for low muscle mass in sarcopenia and other related conditions, the objective of this work was to investigate potential biomarkers associated with appendicular lean mass in community-dwelling older women. This is a cross-sectional study with 71 older women (75 ± 7 years). Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry was used to assess body composition. Plasmatic blood levels of adipokines (i.e., adiponectin, leptin, and resistin), tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and soluble receptors (sTNFr1 and sTNFr2), interferon (INF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and interleukins (IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10) were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Older women with low muscle mass showed higher plasma levels of adiponectin, sTNFr1, and IL-8 compared to the regular muscle mass group. In addition, higher adiponectin plasma levels explained 14% of the lower appendicular lean mass. High adiponectin plasmatic blood levels can contribute to lower appendicular lean mass in older, community-dwelling women. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health, Quality of Life and Sport Rehabilitation)

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11 pages, 743 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Physical Activity on Daily Physical Function in Chinese Middle-Aged and Older Adults: A Longitudinal Study from CHARLS

by Yuge Tian and Zhenguo Shi

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(21), 6514; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11216514 - 2 Nov 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3857

Abstract

Objective: Impaired daily physical function has become a common health problem among Chinese middle-aged and elderly people. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of physical activity on daily physical function in Chinese middle-aged and older adults. Methods: Data from [...] Read more.

Objective: Impaired daily physical function has become a common health problem among Chinese middle-aged and elderly people. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of physical activity on daily physical function in Chinese middle-aged and older adults. Methods: Data from 9056 participants in the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) from 2011 to 2018 were included in this study. Physical activity levels were expressed as metabolic equivalents, and the impairment of daily physical function was determined in a self-reported format by the Activities of Daily Living Scale and the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale. The association between different levels of physical activity and impaired daily physical function was analyzed using Cox proportional hazards regression models. Results: During a mean follow-up period of 6.73 years, 1379 middle-aged and older adults had impaired physical function. After adjusting for all covariates, participants with a physical activity volume (PAV) ≥ 600 MET-minutes/week had a 61% lower risk of impaired daily physical function than those who were physically inactive (HR = 0.39, 95% CI 0.35–0.44). Participants with a PAV of 1800–2999 MET-minutes/week had the lowest risk of impaired daily physical function (HR = 0.33, 95% CI 0.26–0.42). Subgroup analysis showed that participants with a PAV ≥ 600 MET-minutes/week had a greater reduction in the risk of impaired daily physical function among participants who were male, older than or equal to 65 years, and without respiratory disease compared to participants who were physically inactive. Conclusions: This study showed that a PAV ≥ 600 MET-minutes/week could reduce the risk of impaired daily physical function in Chinese middle-aged and elderly people. However, a higher PAV is not better; a PAV in the range of 1800–2999 MET-minutes/week can be more effective in preventing daily physical function impairment in Chinese middle-aged and elderly people. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health, Quality of Life and Sport Rehabilitation)

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9 pages, 555 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Approach to Knee Arthropathy through 180-Degree Immersive VR Movement Visualization in Adult Patients with Severe Hemophilia: A Pilot Study

by Roberto Ucero-Lozano, Raúl Pérez-Llanes, José Antonio López-Pina and Rubén Cuesta-Barriuso

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(20), 6216; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11206216 - 21 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1533

Abstract

(1) Background: Hemarthrosis is a typical clinical manifestation in patients with hemophilia. Its recurrence causes hemophilic arthropathy, characterized by chronic joint pain. Watching movement recorded from a first-person perspective and immersively can be effective in the management of chronic pain. The objective of [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Hemarthrosis is a typical clinical manifestation in patients with hemophilia. Its recurrence causes hemophilic arthropathy, characterized by chronic joint pain. Watching movement recorded from a first-person perspective and immersively can be effective in the management of chronic pain. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an immersive virtual reality intervention in improving the pain intensity, joint condition, muscle strength and range of motion in patients with hemophilic knee arthropathy. (2) Methods: Thirteen patients with hemophilic knee arthropathy were recruited. The patients wore virtual reality glasses and watched a flexion–extension movement of the knee on an immersive 180° video, recorded from a first-person perspective over a 28-day period. The primary variable was the pain intensity (visual analog scale). The secondary variables were the joint status (Hemophilia Joint Health Score), quadriceps and hamstring strength (dynamometry), and range of motion (goniometry). (3) Results: After the intervention period, statistically significant differences were observed in the intensity of the joint pain (Standard error [SE] = 19.31; 95% interval confidence [95%CI] = −1.05; −0.26), joint condition (SE = 18.68; 95%CI = −1.16; −0.52) and quadriceps strength (SE = 35.00; 95%CI = 2.53; 17.47). We found that 38.46% and 23.07% of the patients exhibited an improvement in their quadriceps muscle strength and joint condition above the minimum detectable change for both variables (8.21% and 1.79%, respectively). (4) Conclusions: One hundred and eighty degree immersive VR motion visualization can improve the intensity of joint pain in patients with hemophilic knee arthropathy. An intervention using immersive virtual reality can be an effective complementary approach to improve the joint condition and quadriceps strength in these patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health, Quality of Life and Sport Rehabilitation)

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14 pages, 2293 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effectiveness of Warm-Up Exercises with Tissue Flossing in Increasing Muscle Strength

by Anna Hadamus, Tomasz Jankowski, Karolina Wiaderna, Aneta Bugalska, Wojciech Marszałek, Michalina Błażkiewicz and Dariusz Białoszewski

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(20), 6054; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11206054 - 13 Oct 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4046

Abstract

Tissue flossing is an increasingly popular method in physiotherapy and sports. There is a belief that tissue flossing can improve range of motion and muscle strength, shorten muscle recovery time, and reduce the risk of injury. The aim of this study was to [...] Read more.

Tissue flossing is an increasingly popular method in physiotherapy and sports. There is a belief that tissue flossing can improve range of motion and muscle strength, shorten muscle recovery time, and reduce the risk of injury. The aim of this study was to analyse the effectiveness of tissue flossing for immediately improving muscle strength in recreational athletes when it is performed during warm-up. All participants were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (n = 36) or a control group (n = 34) using a random number generator. The experimental group (n = 36) performed an intervention comprising exercises with muscle tissue flossing and exercises without flossing. The control group (n = 30) performed the same protocol without a floss band. Muscle strength was measured for knee flexion end extension at three speeds (60, 120, and 180 °/s) 3 times. Analysed parameters include peak torque, work, and power related to body weight, flexors–extensors ratio, and time to peak torque. There were no significant changes in the muscle strength parameters from before to after the warm-up in either group (p > 0.05). Significantly lower values of peak torque, work, and power were observed in the experimental group during the warm-up with the floss band applied to muscles (p < 0.05). No clinically significant changes in time to peak torque or flexors–extensors ratio were observed. A single application of flossing does not improve muscle strength or power and can even reduce individuals’ maximum muscle strength capabilities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health, Quality of Life and Sport Rehabilitation)

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9 pages, 388 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Trunk Alignment in Physically Active Young Males with Low Back Pain

by Magdalena Plandowska, Agnieszka Kędra, Przemysław Kędra and Dariusz Czaprowski

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(14), 4206; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11144206 - 20 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1836

Abstract

Background: Systematic physical activity has become an essential part of the guidelines for the prevention and treatment of low back pain (LBP). The aim of this study was to assess differences in trunk alignment parameters with regard to the level of physical activity [...] Read more.

Background: Systematic physical activity has become an essential part of the guidelines for the prevention and treatment of low back pain (LBP). The aim of this study was to assess differences in trunk alignment parameters with regard to the level of physical activity in groups of individuals with and without LBP. Methods: 43 participants with LBP and 37 healthy persons were recruited. Participants were divided into two subgroups: (1) students with a moderate level of physical activity (MPA); (2) students with a high level of physical activity (HPA). An original questionnaire was used to assess the prevalence of LBP. The spinal posture was measured using the Formetric 4D rasterstereographic system. Results: There were no significant differences between groups for any of the parameters assessed: trunk imbalance, trunk inclination, trunk torsion, pelvic tilt, pelvic inclination, pelvic torsion, kyphotic angle and lordotic angle. Conclusions: There are no differences in trunk alignment parameters in the sagittal, frontal and transversal planes between physically active males with and without LBP. Therefore, it can be assumed that physical activity may reduce the risk of the deterioration of trunk alignment in males with LBP younger than 25 years. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health, Quality of Life and Sport Rehabilitation)

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13 pages, 1178 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Menstrual Cycle Changes Joint Laxity in Females—Differences between Eumenorrhea and Oligomenorrhea

by Sae Maruyama, Chie Sekine, Mayuu Shagawa, Hirotake Yokota, Ryo Hirabayashi, Ryoya Togashi, Yuki Yamada, Rena Hamano, Atsushi Ito, Daisuke Sato and Mutsuaki Edama

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(11), 3222; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11113222 - 5 Jun 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4119

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the changes in anterior knee laxity (AKL), stiffness, general joint laxity (GJL), and genu recurvatum (GR) during the menstrual cycle in female non-athletes and female athletes with normal and irregular menstrual cycles. Participants were 19 [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the changes in anterior knee laxity (AKL), stiffness, general joint laxity (GJL), and genu recurvatum (GR) during the menstrual cycle in female non-athletes and female athletes with normal and irregular menstrual cycles. Participants were 19 female non-athletes (eumenorrhea, n = 11; oligomenorrhea, n = 8) and 15 female athletes (eumenorrhea, n = 8; oligomenorrhea, n = 7). AKL was measured as the amount of anterior tibial displacement at 67 N–133 N. Stiffness was calculated as change in (Δ)force/Δ anterior displacement. The Beighton method was used to evaluate the GJL. The GR was measured as the maximum angle of passive knee joint extension. AKL, stiffness, GJL, and GR were measured twice in four phases during the menstrual cycle. Stiffness was significantly higher in oligomenorrhea groups than in eumenorrhea groups, although no significant differences between menstrual cycle phases were evident in female non-athletes. GR was significantly higher in the late follicular, ovulation, and luteal phases than in the early follicular phase, although no significant differences between groups were seen in female athletes. Estradiol may affect the stiffness of the periarticular muscles in the knee, suggesting that GR in female athletes may change during the menstrual cycle. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health, Quality of Life and Sport Rehabilitation)

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11 pages, 734 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Efficacy of Acupuncture on Quality of Life, Functional Performance, Dyspnea, and Pulmonary Function in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Protocol for a Randomized Clinical Trial

by Renato Fleury Cardoso, Ana Cristina Rodrigues Lacerda, Vanessa Pereira Lima, Lucas Fróis Fernandes de Oliveira, Sofia Fróis Fernandes de Oliveira, Rafaela Paula Araújo, Cecylia Leiber Fernandes e Castro, Flávia Pereira da Silva, Lizânia Vieira de Paiva, Lia Dietrich, Pedro Henrique Scheidt Figueiredo, Henrique Silveira Costa, Mario Bernardo-Filho, Danúbia da Cunha de Sá-Caputo, Vanessa Amaral Mendonça and Redha Taiar

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(11), 3048; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11113048 - 28 May 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3019

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a respiratory disease characterized by the presence of chronic airflow obstruction. Previous studies have evaluated the effect of acupuncture treatment (AT) in patients with COPD. Nevertheless, these studies show a great deal of heterogeneity in treatment protocols, [...] Read more.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a respiratory disease characterized by the presence of chronic airflow obstruction. Previous studies have evaluated the effect of acupuncture treatment (AT) in patients with COPD. Nevertheless, these studies show a great deal of heterogeneity in treatment protocols, having sample sizes that are too small to estimate and clarify effect size and heterogeneity in patients’ baseline. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture on quality of life, functional performance, dyspnea, and pulmonary function in patients with COPD. As such, patients will go through the following three phases: Phase I–pretreatment: period of subject selection and inclusion in the protocol, with an interview and performance of exams and tests as follows: Mini-Cog, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, spirometry, the Patient-Generated Index, Saint George’s Respiratory Questionnaire, the six-minute walk test, the London Chest Activity of Daily Living, and the COPD Assessment Test. Phase II–8 weeks of treatment, with AT 3 times a week, with two parallel groups: Group I–with 50 subjects–AT according to the recommended technical standards; Group II–with 50 subjects–Control, without acupuncture. Phase III–Continuation of AT for 8 weeks, maintaining the subjects in the previously allocated groups and following the same methodology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health, Quality of Life and Sport Rehabilitation)

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24 pages, 2792 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evidence-Based Surgical Treatment Algorithm for Unstable Syndesmotic Injuries

by Markus Regauer, Gordon Mackay, Owen Nelson, Wolfgang Böcker and Christian Ehrnthaller

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(2), 331; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11020331 - 10 Jan 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3794

Abstract

Background: Surgical treatment of unstable syndesmotic injuries is not trivial, and there are no generally accepted treatment guidelines. The most common controversies regarding surgical treatment are related to screw fixation versus dynamic fixation, the use of reduction clamps, open versus closed reduction, and [...] Read more.

Background: Surgical treatment of unstable syndesmotic injuries is not trivial, and there are no generally accepted treatment guidelines. The most common controversies regarding surgical treatment are related to screw fixation versus dynamic fixation, the use of reduction clamps, open versus closed reduction, and the role of the posterior malleolus and of the anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (AITFL). Our aim was to draw important conclusions from the pertinent literature concerning surgical treatment of unstable syndesmotic injuries, to transform these conclusions into surgical principles supported by the literature, and finally to fuse these principles into an evidence-based surgical treatment algorithm. Methods: PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and the reference lists of systematic reviews of relevant studies dealing with the surgical treatment of unstable syndesmotic injuries were searched independently by two reviewers using specific terms and limits. Surgical principles supported by the literature were fused into an evidence-based surgical treatment algorithm. Results: A total of 171 articles were included for further considerations. Among them, 47 articles concerned syndesmotic screw fixation and 41 flexible dynamic fixations of the syndesmosis. Twenty-five studies compared screw fixation with dynamic fixations, and seven out of these comparisons were randomized controlled trials. Nineteen articles addressed the posterior malleolus, 14 the role of the AITFL, and eight the use of reduction clamps. Anatomic reduction is crucial to prevent posttraumatic osteoarthritis. Therefore, flexible dynamic stabilization techniques should be preferred whenever possible. An unstable AITFL should be repaired and augmented, as it represents an important stabilizer of external rotation of the distal fibula. Conclusions: The current literature provides sufficient arguments for the development of an evidence-based surgical treatment algorithm for unstable syndesmotic injuries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health, Quality of Life and Sport Rehabilitation)

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10 pages, 2512 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of an Eccentric Training Protocol Using Gliding Discs on Balance and Lower Body Strength in Healthy Adults

by Juan Lopez-Barreiro, Pablo Hernandez-Lucas, Jose Luis Garcia-Soidan and Vicente Romo-Perez

J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(24), 5965; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10245965 - 19 Dec 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2790

Abstract

Impaired balance and lower body weakness are the main causes of falls, which are considered to be the major cause of fractures and head injuries in the elderly and are recognised as a serious health problem. The aim of this study is to [...] Read more.

Impaired balance and lower body weakness are the main causes of falls, which are considered to be the major cause of fractures and head injuries in the elderly and are recognised as a serious health problem. The aim of this study is to observe the effect of eccentric training, introducing new technologies (gliding discs), on body composition, lower body strength, balance and quality of life. A quasi-experimental study was carried out with 56 healthy participants who were divided into an experimental group (n = 31) who underwent the protocol consisting of 12 training sessions and a control group (n = 25) who did not undergo the training. Before and after the intervention, all participants underwent a measurement of body composition, the SJ jump, balance with accelerometry and quality of life with the Short Form 12 Health Survey. In the experimental group, statistically significant improvements were found in the variables balance and lower body strength. The application of this training protocol improves lower body strength and the ability to control balance in the adult population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health, Quality of Life and Sport Rehabilitation)

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13 pages, 10112 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Differences in Adiposity Profile and Body Fat Distribution between Forwards and Backs in Sub-Elite Spanish Female Rugby Union Players

by Dolores Escrivá, Jordi Caplliure-Llopis, Inmaculada Benet, Gonzalo Mariscal, Juan Vicente Mampel and Carlos Barrios

J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(23), 5713; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10235713 - 6 Dec 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3245

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyze the adiposity profile and the body fat distribution in 56 sub-elite female rugby union players involved in the Spanish National Women’s Rugby Union Championships. The participants included in this study, which was the first to [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was to analyze the adiposity profile and the body fat distribution in 56 sub-elite female rugby union players involved in the Spanish National Women’s Rugby Union Championships. The participants included in this study, which was the first to analyze sub-elite players, show thinner skinfolds, lower fat mass, and lesser fat percentage than previously reported for elite female rugby union players. Forwards were heavier and had higher body mass index (BMI) and fat mass, thicker skinfolds, and higher fat percentage than back players. Forwards also possessed significantly greater total fat-free mass than backs. All these differences were applicable only to players under 25 years of age. A negative correlation between age and both abdominal and lower extremity fat was found in forward players but not in the backs. Both Yuhasz and Faulkner equations tended to underestimate fat percentage in comparison to Reilly equation. Although Yuhasz equation provided higher systematic error, random error was lower in comparison to Faulkner equation. This study shows the relevance of analyzing and monitoring adiposity in female rugby union players to optimize adaptation to the sports requirements of different playing positions and age. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health, Quality of Life and Sport Rehabilitation)

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12 pages, 1068 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Local Vibration Reduces Muscle Damage after Prolonged Exercise in Men

by Anna Piotrowska, Wanda Pilch, Łukasz Tota, Marcin Maciejczyk, Dariusz Mucha, Monika Bigosińska, Przemysław Bujas, Szczepan Wiecha, Ewa Sadowska-Krępa and Tomasz Pałka

J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(22), 5461; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10225461 - 22 Nov 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5967

Abstract

Prolonged exercise can lead to muscle damage, with soreness, swelling, and ultimately reduced strength as a consequence. It has been shown that whole-body vibration (WBV) improves recovery by reducing the levels of stress hormones and the activities of creatine kinase (CK) and lactate [...] Read more.

Prolonged exercise can lead to muscle damage, with soreness, swelling, and ultimately reduced strength as a consequence. It has been shown that whole-body vibration (WBV) improves recovery by reducing the levels of stress hormones and the activities of creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). The aim of the study was to demonstrate the effect of local vibration treatment applied after exercise on the level of selected markers of muscle fiber damage. The study involved 12 untrained men, aged 21.7 ± 1.05 years, with a VO₂peak of 46.12 ± 3.67 mL·kg⁻¹·min⁻¹. A maximal intensity test to volitional exhaustion was performed to determine VO₂peak and individual exercise loads for prolonged exercise. The subjects were to perform 180 min of physical effort with an intensity of 50 ± 2% VO₂peak. After exercise, they underwent a 60 min vibration treatment or placebo therapy using a mattress. Blood samples were taken before, immediately after the recovery procedure, and 24 h after the end of the exercise test. Myoglobin (Mb) levels as well as the activities of CK and LDH were recorded. Immediately after the hour-long recovery procedure (vibration or placebo), the mean concentrations of the determined indices were significantly different from baseline values. In the vibration group, significantly lower values of Mb (p = 0.005), CK (p = 0.030), and LDH (p = 0.005) were seen. Differences were also present 24 h after the end of the exercise test. The results of the vibration group compared to the control group differed in respect to Mb (p = 0.002), CK (p = 0.029), and LDH (p = 0.014). After prolonged physical effort, topical vibration improved post-workout recovery manifested by lower CK and LDH activity and lower Mb concentration compared to a control group. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health, Quality of Life and Sport Rehabilitation)

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13 pages, 450 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Focus on the Scapular Region in the Rehabilitation of Chronic Neck Pain Is Effective in Improving the Symptoms: A Randomized Controlled Trial

by Norollah Javdaneh, Tadeusz Ambroży, Amir Hossein Barati, Esmaeil Mozafaripour and Łukasz Rydzik

J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(16), 3495; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10163495 - 8 Aug 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5333

Abstract

Chronic neck pain is a common human health problem. Changes in scapular posture and alteration of muscle activation patterns of scapulothoracic muscles are cited as potential risk factors for neck pain. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of neck [...] Read more.

Chronic neck pain is a common human health problem. Changes in scapular posture and alteration of muscle activation patterns of scapulothoracic muscles are cited as potential risk factors for neck pain. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of neck exercise training (NET) with and without scapular stabilization training (SST) on pain intensity, the scapula downward rotation index (SDRI), forward head angle (FHA) and neck range of motion (ROM) in patients with chronic neck pain and scapular dyskinesia. A total of sixty-six subjects with chronic neck pain and scapular dyskinesia were randomly divided into three groups: neck exercise training, n = 24, combined training (NET + SST), n = 24 and a control group, n = 24. Pain intensity, SDRI, FHA and ROM were measured by the numerical rating scale, caliper, photogrammetry and IMU sensor, respectively. When the combined intervention group consisting of NET and SST was compared with NET alone at six weeks, there was a statistically significant difference in pain intensity, SDRI, FHA and cervical ROM for flexion and extension (p ≤ 0.05). Adding scapular exercises to neck exercises had a more significant effect in decreasing pain intensity, SDRI, FHA and increased cervical ROM than neck exercises alone in patients with chronic neck pain. These findings indicate that focus on the scapular posture in the rehabilitation of chronic neck pain effectively improves the symptoms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health, Quality of Life and Sport Rehabilitation)

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11 pages, 823 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quality of Life in European Older Adults of SHARE Wave 7: Comparing the Old and the Oldest-Old

by Amparo Oliver, Trinidad Sentandreu-Mañó, José M. Tomás, Irene Fernández and Patricia Sancho

J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(13), 2850; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10132850 - 27 Jun 2021

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4217

Abstract

CASP-12 (Control, Autonomy, Self-realization, and Pleasure scale) is one of the most common internationally used measures for quality of life in older adults, although its structure is not clearly established. Current research aims to test the factor structure of the CASP-12, so as [...] Read more.

CASP-12 (Control, Autonomy, Self-realization, and Pleasure scale) is one of the most common internationally used measures for quality of life in older adults, although its structure is not clearly established. Current research aims to test the factor structure of the CASP-12, so as to provide evidence on reliability and external validity, and to test for measurement invariance across age groups. Data from 61,355 Europeans (≥60 years old) from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe wave 7 were used. CASP-12, EURO-D (European depression scale), self-perceived health, and life satisfaction measurements were included. Reliability and validity coefficients, competing confirmatory factor models, and standard measurement invariance routine were estimated. A second-order factor model with the original factor structure was retained. The scale showed adequate reliability coefficients except for the autonomy dimension. The correlation coefficients for external validity were all statistically significant. Finally, CASP-12 is scalar invariant across age. We conclude that the best-fitting factor structure retained allows using CASP-12 either by factors, or as an overall score, depending on the research interests. Findings related to CASP-12 measurement invariance encourage its use in the oldest-old too. When comparing the dimensions across age groups, as people age, autonomy slightly increases and the rest of the dimensions decline. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health, Quality of Life and Sport Rehabilitation)

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12 pages, 779 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Can a Single Trial of a Thoracolumbar Myofascial Release Technique Reduce Pain and Disability in Chronic Low Back Pain? A Randomized Balanced Crossover Study

by Luana Rocha Paulo, Ana Cristina Rodrigues Lacerda, Fábio Luiz Mendonça Martins, José Sebastião Cunha Fernandes, Leonardo Sette Vieira, Cristiano Queiroz Guimarães, Sílvia de Simoni Guedes Ballesteros, Marco Túlio Saldanha dos Anjos, Patrícia Aparecida Tavares, Sueli Ferreira da Fonseca, Murilo Xavier Oliveira, Mário Bernardo-Filho, Danúbia da Cunha de Sá-Caputo, Vanessa Amaral Mendonça and Redha Taiar

J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(9), 2006; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10092006 - 7 May 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3335

Abstract

Although manual therapy for pain relief has been used as an adjunct in treatments for chronic low back pain (CLBP), there is still the belief that a single session of myofascial release would be effective. This study was a crossover clinical trial aimed [...] Read more.

Although manual therapy for pain relief has been used as an adjunct in treatments for chronic low back pain (CLBP), there is still the belief that a single session of myofascial release would be effective. This study was a crossover clinical trial aimed to investigate whether a single session of a specific myofascial release technique reduces pain and disability in subjects with CLBP. 41 participants over 18 years old were randomly enrolled into 3 situations in a balanced and crossover manner: experimental, placebo, and control. The subjects underwent a single session of myofascial release on thoracolumbar fascia and the results were compared with the control and placebo groups. The outcomes, pain and functionality, were evaluated using the numerical pain rating scale (NPRS), pressure pain threshold (PPT), and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). There were no effects between-tests, within-tests, nor for interaction of all the outcomes, i.e., NPRS (η ² = 0.32, F = 0.48, p = 0.61), PPT (η² = 0.73, F = 2.80, p = 0.06), ODI (η² = 0.02, F = 0.02, p = 0.97). A single trial of a thoracolumbar myofascial release technique was not enough to reduce pain intensity and disability in subjects with CLBP. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health, Quality of Life and Sport Rehabilitation)

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11 pages, 1942 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Treatment of Achilles Tendinopathy in Recreational Runners with Peritendinous Hyaluronic Acid Injections: A Viscoelastometric, Functional, and Biochemical Pilot Study

by Marco Gervasi, Elena Barbieri, Italo Capparucci, Giosuè Annibalini, Davide Sisti, Stefano Amatori, Vittoria Carrabs, Giacomo Valli, Sabrina Donati Zeppa, Marco Bruno Luigi Rocchi, Vilberto Stocchi and Piero Sestili

J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(7), 1397; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10071397 - 31 Mar 2021

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3588

Abstract

Background: Achilles tendinopathy (AT) affects ca. 10 million recreational runners in Europe; the practice of hyaluronic acid (HA) infiltration is being increasingly adopted. The aim of this pilot study was to monitor the effects of a three-local time-spaced injections regimen of HA in [...] Read more.

Background: Achilles tendinopathy (AT) affects ca. 10 million recreational runners in Europe; the practice of hyaluronic acid (HA) infiltration is being increasingly adopted. The aim of this pilot study was to monitor the effects of a three-local time-spaced injections regimen of HA in the treatment of AT in middle-aged runners combining for the first time viscoelastometric, biochemical, and functional methodologies with routine clinical examinations. Methods: Eight male runners (Age 49.3 ± 3.9), diagnosed for unilateral AT, were given three ultrasound (US) guided peritendinous HA injections at the baseline (T0) and every fifteenth day with a follow-up on the forty-fifth day (T1, T2, and T3). At all-time points patients were assessed for viscoelastic tone and stiffness, maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC), and pain level (Likert scale 0–5). The peritendinous effusions of the injured tendon were collected at T0 and T2 to quantify the volume variations and the IL-1β and MMP-3 levels. Results: At T0 MVIC and pain score were significantly lower and higher, respectively, in injured tendons. The volume, IL-1β and MMP-3 levels decreased in the course of treatment and the clinical endpoints ameliorated over time. Tone, stiffness, and functional performance also varied significantly at T2 and T3, as compared to T0. Conclusions: The sequential peritendinous injections of HA were effective in the amelioration of the clinical symptoms, as well as of the functional and viscoelastic state associated with AT. The determination of the viscoelastometric state may help to precisely evaluate the healing process in AT patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health, Quality of Life and Sport Rehabilitation)

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19 pages, 3096 KiB

Open AccessReview

TECAR Therapy Associated with High-Intensity Laser Therapy (Hilt) and Manual Therapy in the Treatment of Muscle Disorders: A Literature Review on the Theorised Effects Supporting Their Use

by Dan Alexandru Szabo, Nicolae Neagu, Silvia Teodorescu, Corina Predescu, Ioan Sabin Sopa and Loredana Panait

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(20), 6149; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11206149 - 19 Oct 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 9031

Abstract

Background: It has been estimated that between 30 and 50 per cent of all injuries that take place throughout participation in a sport are the consequence of soft tissue injuries, and muscle injuries are the primary cause of physical disability. Methods: The current [...] Read more.

Background: It has been estimated that between 30 and 50 per cent of all injuries that take place throughout participation in a sport are the consequence of soft tissue injuries, and muscle injuries are the primary cause of physical disability. Methods: The current literature review was designed between October 2021 and April 2022, according to the PRISMA standards, using the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. At the screening stage, we eliminated articles that did not fit into the themes developed in all subchapters of the study (n = 70), articles that dealt exclusively with orthopaedics (n = 34), 29 articles because the articles had only the abstract visible, and 17 articles that dealt exclusively with other techniques for the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. The initial search revealed 343 titles in the databases, from which 56 duplicate articles were automatically removed, and 2 were added from other sources. Results: The combination of these three techniques results in the following advantages: It increases joint mobility, especially in stiff joints, it increases the range of motion, accelerates tissue repair, improves tissue stability, and extensibility, and it reduces soft tissue inflammation (manual therapy). In addition, it decreases the concentration of pro-inflammatory mediators and improves capillary permeability, resulting in the total eradication of inflammation (HILT). It warms the deep tissues, stimulates vascularity, promotes the repose of tissues (particularly muscle tissue), and stimulates drainage (TECAR). Conclusions: TECAR therapy, combined with manual therapy and High-Intensity Laser therapy in treating muscle diseases, presented optimal collaboration in the recovery process of all muscle diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health, Quality of Life and Sport Rehabilitation)

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11 pages, 815 KiB

Open AccessReview

Criteria for Return-to-Play (RTP) after Rotator Cuff Surgery: A Systematic Review of Literature

by Marco Bravi, Chiara Fossati, Arrigo Giombini, Andrea Macaluso, José Kawazoe Lazzoli, Fabio Santacaterina, Federica Bressi, Ferruccio Vorini, Stefano Campi, Rocco Papalia and Fabio Pigozzi

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(8), 2244; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11082244 - 17 Apr 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4216

Abstract

This systematic review of the literature aimed to highlight which criteria are described in the literature to define when a patient, after rotator cuff repair (RCR), is ready for return-to-play (RTP), which includes return to unrestricted activities, return to work, leisure, and sport [...] Read more.

This systematic review of the literature aimed to highlight which criteria are described in the literature to define when a patient, after rotator cuff repair (RCR), is ready for return-to-play (RTP), which includes return to unrestricted activities, return to work, leisure, and sport activities. An online systematic search on the US National Library of Medicine (PubMed/MEDLINE), SCOPUS, Web of Science (WOS), and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, was performed with no data limit until December 2021. A total of 24 studies that reported at least one criterion after RCR were included. Nine criteria were identified and among these, the most reported criterion was the time from surgery, which was used by 78% of the studies; time from surgery was used as the only criterion by 54% of the studies, and in combination with other criteria, in 24% of the studies. Strength and ROM were the most reported criteria after time (25%). These results are in line with a previous systematic review that aimed to identify RTP criteria after surgical shoulder stabilization and with a recent scoping review that investigated RTP criteria among athletes after RCR and anterior shoulder stabilization. Compared to this latest scoping review, our study adds the methodological strength of being conducted according to the Prisma guidelines; furthermore, our study included both athletes and non-athletes to provide a comprehensive view of the criteria used after RCR; moreover, ten additional recent manuscripts were examined with respect to the scoping review. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health, Quality of Life and Sport Rehabilitation)

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19 pages, 3057 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Effect of Pressotherapy on Performance and Recovery in the Management of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Paweł Wiśniowski, Maciej Cieśliński, Martyna Jarocka, Przemysław Seweryn Kasiak, Bartłomiej Makaruk, Wojciech Pawliczek and Szczepan Wiecha

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(8), 2077; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11082077 - 7 Apr 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 6272

Abstract

Background: It has been demonstrated that pressotherapy used post-exercise (Po-E) can influence training performance, recovery, and physiological properties. This study examined the effectiveness of pressotherapy on the following parameters. Methods: The systematic review and meta-analysis were performed according to PRISMA guidelines. A literature [...] Read more.

Background: It has been demonstrated that pressotherapy used post-exercise (Po-E) can influence training performance, recovery, and physiological properties. This study examined the effectiveness of pressotherapy on the following parameters. Methods: The systematic review and meta-analysis were performed according to PRISMA guidelines. A literature search of MEDLINE, PubMed, EBSCO, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, and ClinicalTrials has been completed up to March 2021. Inclusion criteria were: randomized control trials (RCTs) or cross-over studies, mean participant age between 18 and 65 years, ≥1 exercise mechanical pressotherapy intervention. The risk of bias was assessed by the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for RCT (RoB 2.0). Results: 12 studies comprised of 322 participants were selected. The mean sample size was n = 25. Pressotherapy significantly reduced muscle soreness (Standard Mean Difference; SMD = −0.33; CI = −0.49, −0.18; p < 0.0001; I² = 7%). Pressotherapy did not significantly affect jump height (SMD = −0.04; CI = −0.36, −0.29; p = 0.82). Pressotherapy did not significantly affect creatine kinase level 24–96 h after DOMS induction (SMD = 0.41; CI = −0.07, 0.89; p = 0.09; I² = 63%). Conclusions: Only moderate benefits of using pressotherapy as a recovery intervention were observed (mostly for reduced muscle soreness), although, pressotherapy did not significantly influence exercise performance. Results differed between the type of exercise, study population, and applied treatment protocol. Pressotherapy should only be incorporated as an additional component of a more comprehensive recovery strategy. Study PROSPERO registration number—CRD42020189382. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health, Quality of Life and Sport Rehabilitation)

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20 pages, 1269 KiB

Open AccessReview

Cardiac Rehabilitation in Patients with Peripheral Artery Disease—A Literature Review in COVID-19 Era

by Razvan Anghel, Cristina Andreea Adam, Dragos Traian Marius Marcu, Ovidiu Mitu and Florin Mitu

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(2), 416; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11020416 - 14 Jan 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 6636

Abstract

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is an integral part of the management of various cardiovascular disease such as coronary artery disease (CAD), peripheral artery disease (PAD), or chronic heart failure (CHF), with proven morbidity and mortality benefits. This article aims to review and summarize the [...] Read more.

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is an integral part of the management of various cardiovascular disease such as coronary artery disease (CAD), peripheral artery disease (PAD), or chronic heart failure (CHF), with proven morbidity and mortality benefits. This article aims to review and summarize the scientific literature related to cardiac rehabilitation programs for patients with PAD and how they were adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic. The implementation of CR programs has been problematic since the COVID-19 pandemic due to social distancing and work-related restrictions. One of the main challenges for physicians and health systems alike has been the management of PAD patients. COVID-19 predisposes to coagulation disorders that can lead to severe thrombotic events. Home-based walking exercises are more accessible and easier to accept than supervised exercise programs. Cycling or other forms of exercise are more entertaining or challenging alternatives to exercise therapy. Besides treadmill exercises, upper- and lower-extremity ergometry also has great functional benefits, especially regarding walking endurance. Supervised exercise therapy has a positive impact on both functional capacity and also on the quality of life of such patients. The most effective manner to acquire this seems to be by combining revascularization therapy and supervised exercise. Rehabilitation programs proved to be a mandatory part of the integrative approach in these cases, increasing quality of life, and decreasing stress levels, depression, and anxiety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health, Quality of Life and Sport Rehabilitation)

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