Atletas de Taekwondo apresentam desequilíbrio muscular entre os músculos flexores e extensores do joelho: achados preliminares / Taekwondo athletes have muscle imbalance between knee flexors and extensions: preliminary findings / Los atletas de Taekwondo presentan un desequilibrio muscular entre los flexores y los extensores de la rodilla: hallazgos preliminares

Durante a prática de taekwondo com movimentos repetitivos, sistematizados e com certa sobrecarga de treino, o indivíduo pode gerar possíveis adaptações orgânicas que resultam em problemas posturais com grandes chances de desencadear desequilíbrio muscular. Objetivo: Verificar a presença de desequilíbrio entre os grupos musculares agonistas e antagonistas da articulação do joelho e entre membros dominantes e não dominantes de praticantes de taekwondo por meio da dinamometria isocinética. Método: Estudo transversal, observacional e descritivo realizado com nove praticantes de taekwondo do sexo masculino. Utilizou-se um dinamômetro isocinético para investigar o pico de torque, pico de torque por peso corporal, trabalho total, potência média, relação agonista/antagonista e índice de fadiga. Os dados dos membros dominante e não dominante foram comparados por meio do teste t-student para amostras pareadas. Foram calculados o intervalo de confiança de 95% da diferença média, o tamanho de efeito e o poder das análises. Resultados: Os músculos extensores dos membros dominante e não dominante apresentaram diferença média significante de 15,49 Nm (IC95% 7,27; 23,70; p=0,002) para pico de torque e de 22,64% (IC95% 11,83; 33,46; p=0,001) para pico de torque por peso corporal a 60°/s, representando tamanho de efeito médio. Conclusão: Os atletas de taekwondo apresentaram maior pico de torque e maior pico de torque por peso corporal dos músculos extensores do joelho a 60º/s no lado dominante. A relação agonista/ antagonista foi inferior a 60% e mais da metade dos atletas apresentaram uma diferença maior que 10% no pico de torque flexor no lado não dominante.

During taekwondo practice with the repetitive motions, systematized and with certain training overload, the person can generate possible organic adaptations that result in postural problems with a great chances of triggering muscle imbalance. Objective: To verify the presence of imbalance between agonist and antagonist muscle groups of knee joint and between dominant and non-dominant limbs through isokinetic dynamometry. Methods: Cross-sectional, observational and descriptive study realized with nine male taekwondo practitioners. An isokinetic dynamometer was used to investigate the peak torque, peak torque by body weight, total work, average power, agonist/antagonist ratio and fatigue index. Data from the dominant and non-dominant limbs were compared by t-student test for pared samples. The 95% confidence interval of the mean difference, the effect size and the power of analyses power were calculated. Results: The extensor muscles of the dominant and non-dominant limbs showed mean difference of 15,49 Nm (IC95% 7,27; 23,70; p=0,002) for peak torque and of 22,64% (IC95% 11,83; 33,46; p=0,001) for peak torque by body weight at 60°/s, representing average effect size. Conclusion: The taekwondo athletes had higher peak torque and higher peak torque by body weight of the knee extensors muscles in the dominant side. The agonist/ antagonist ratio was less than 60% and more than half of the athletes showed a difference greater than 10% in the peak flexor torque on the non-dominant side.

Durante la práctica de taekwondo con los movimientos repetitivos, sistematizados y con cierta sobrecarga de entrenamiento, la persona puede generar posibles adaptaciones orgánicas que deriven en problemas posturales con grandes posibilidades de desencadenar desequilibrios musculares. Objetivo: Verificar la presencia de desequilibrio entre grupos musculares agonistas y antagonistas de la articulación de la rodilla y entre miembros dominantes y no dominantes mediante dinamometría isocinética. Métodos: Estudio transversal, observacional y descriptivo realizado con nueve practicantes masculinos de taekwondo. Se utilizó un dinamómetro isocinético para investigar el par máximo, el par máximo por peso corporal, el trabajo total, la potencia media, la relación agonista/antagonista y el índice de fatiga. Los datos de las extremidades dominantes y no dominantes se compararon mediante la prueba t- student para muestras de pared. Se calcularon el intervalo de confianza del 95% de la diferencia media, el tamaño del efecto y la potencia de los análisis. Resultados: Los músculos extensores de los miembros dominantes y no dominantes mostraron una diferencia media de 15,49 Nm (IC95% 7,27; 23,70; p=0,002) para el par máximo y de 22,64% (IC95% 11,83; 33,46; p=0,001) para el par máximo por peso corporal a 60°/s, lo que representa el tamaño medio del efecto. Conclusiones: Los atletas de taekwondo presentaron un mayor par máximo y un mayor par máximo por peso corporal de los músculos extensores de la rodilla en el lado dominante. La relación agonista/antagonista fue inferior al 60% y más de la mitad de los atletas mostraron una diferencia superior al 10% en el pico de par flexor en el lado no dominante.

Does range of motion measurement and reference values differ?: a multi-centered study

This study is aimed to estimate and measure reference values in the normal range of motion of extremity joints in females and to provide a database for the assessment of impairments related to the mobility of the joints. This observational cross-sectional study was conducted at seven major educational institutes areas of Rawalpindi and Islamabad in Pakistan from January to June 2020 with a sample size of 600 healthy females aged 15 to 45 years and divided into three groups through non-probability sampling technique. In study Instruments, an electronic Goniometer was used for the measurement of the range of motions for different joints and then those ranges were recorded. The questionnaire had two sections demographic characteristics and ROM for both upper and lower limbs. Data was analyzed using SPSS V21. A p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.In the result,Out of 600 participants,there was a statistically significant difference of (p < 0.001) in both upper and lower extremities motion between all the three groups for the measurements and noticeably no significant difference (p > 0.005) between group 1, 2 comparisons for the knee joint extension.To conclude, In most joints, the range of motion increases with age. The transition from group 1 to group 2 was aided by increased hormone participation in growth, an active lifestyle, and generally good health. Because of degenerative changes and joint stiffness, group 3's range of motion deteriorated, leading to a sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity. Standardized biomechanical measurements can help health practitioners, such as physiotherapists, choose appropriate therapy interventions to assess musculoskeletal disorders. To resolve the inconsistencies in the reliability and validity of goniometry values, more research is required.

Efectos del autoinjerto hueso-tendón patelar-hueso sobre la posición articular y la fuerza en pacientes con reconstrucción del ligamento cruzado anterior / Effects of bone-patellar tendon-bone autograft on joint position and strength in patients with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

RESUMEN: El objetivo del estudio fue comparar el déficit propioceptivo a través del Joint position sense (JPS) y Force steadiness en pacientes con reconstrucción del ligamento cruzado anterior (LCA) injerto hueso-tendón patelar-hueso (HTH) 6 a 12 meses postcirugía. Participaron 15 pacientes (13 hombres y 2 mujeres, 25,5 ± 1,3 años) con reconstrucción de LCA con autoinjerto HTH y 20 personas sin lesión del LCA (19 hombres y 1 mujer, 24,1 ± 0,8 años). Para evaluar la sensación de posición de la articulación de la rodilla se midió la Joint position sense (JPS) en tres rangos: 0°-30°, 31°-60° y 61°-90° y la sensación de fuerza del cuádriceps fue evaluada con la prueba Force steadiness (FS) al 15 % de la contracción voluntaria máxima (CVM), ambas pruebas realizadas 6 a 12 meses post cirugía. Los resultados mostraron que no hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas en la sensación de la posición articular (JPS 0°-30°) (p=0.564) y 31°-60° (p=0.681), mientras que en el rango 61°-90° (p=0.003) existieron diferencias estadísticamente significativas. En las mediciones de sensación de fuerza del cuádriceps (FS al 15 % CVM) entre los pacientes operados de LCA técnica HTH y el grupo control no hubo diferencias estadísticas (p= 0.987) La sensación de la fuerza del cuádriceps medida con la prueba FS al 15 % CVM no presentaría déficit entre los 6 a 12 meses en pacientes post operados de LCA al ser comparados con sujetos sin lesión ni cirugía de este ligamento. Se concluye que la sensación de la posición articular medida con la prueba JPS en en tres rangos articulares de pacientes con reconstrucción de LCA injerto HTH 6 a 12 meses post cirugía sólo mostró alteraciones en el rango de 61°- 90° al ser comparado con el grupo control, lo cual indica que la sensación de la posición articular presenta un déficit en este rango específico.

SUMMARY: The aim of the study was to compare the proprioceptive deficit through the Joint position sense (JPS) and Force steadiness in patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) bone-patellar tendon-bone graft (PTH) reconstruction 6 to 12 months post-surgery. Fifteen patients (13 men and 2 women, 25.5 ± 1.3 years) with ACL reconstruction with HTH autograft and 20 persons without ACL injury (19 men and 1 woman, 24.1 ± 0.8 years) participated. To assess knee joint position sensation, Joint position sense (JPS) was measured in three ranges: 0°-30°, 31°- 60° and 61°-90° and quadriceps strength sensation was assessed with the Force steadiness (FS) test at 15 % of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), both tests performed 6 to 12 months post surgery. The results showed that there were no statistically significant differences in joint position sensation (JPS 0°-30°) (p=0.564) and 31°-60° (p=0.681), while in the range 61°-90° (p=0.003) there were statistically significant differences. In the quadriceps strength sensation measurements (FS at 15 % CVM) between the patients operated on ACL HTH technique and the control group there were no statistical differences (p= 0.987). The quadriceps strength sensation measured with the FS test at 15 % CVM would not present a deficit between 6 to 12 months in post- operated ACL patients when compared to subjects without injury or surgery of this ligament. It is concluded that the joint position sensation measured with the JPS test in three joint ranges of patients with ACL reconstruction HTH graft 6 to 12 months post surgery only showed alterations in the range of 61°- 90° when compared to the control group, indicating that the joint position sensation presents a deficit in this specific range.

Application of back propagation neural network in sports fatigue indicators / Aplicação da rede neural de retropropagação em indicadores de fadiga esportiva / Aplicación de la red neuronal de retropropagación en indicadores de fatiga deportiva

ABSTRACT Introduction High-intensity rehabilitation training will produce exercise fatigue. Objective A backpropagation (BP) network neural algorithm is proposed to predict sports fatigue based on electromyography (EMG) signal images. Methods The principal component analysis algorithm is used to reduce the dimension of EMG signal features. The knee joint angle is estimated by the regularized over-limit learning machine algorithm and the BP neural network algorithm. Results The RMSE value of the regularized over-limit learning machine algorithm is lower than that of the BP neural network algorithm. At the same time, the ρ value of the regularized over-limit learning machine algorithm is closer to 1, indicating its higher accuracy. Conclusions The model training time of the regularized over-limit learning machine algorithm has been greatly reduced, which improves efficiency. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment results.

RESUMO Introdução O treinamento de reabilitação de alta intensidade produzirá fadiga ao exercício. Objetivo Um algoritmo neural de backpropagation network (BP) é proposto para prever a fadiga esportiva com base em imagens de sinais de eletromiografia (EMG). Métodos O algoritmo de análise de componente principal é usado para reduzir a dimensão das características do sinal EMG. O ângulo da articulação do joelho é estimado usando o algoritmo de aprendizado de máquina de limite regularizado acima e o algoritmo de rede neural BP. Resultados o valor RMSE do algoritmo de aprendizado de máquina acima do limite regularizado é menor que o do algoritmo de rede neural BP. Ao mesmo tempo, o valor de ρ do algoritmo de aprendizado de máquina acima do limite regularizado está próximo de 1, indicando sua maior precisão. Conclusões O tempo de treinamento do modelo de algoritmo de aprendizado de máquina acima do limite regularizado foi bastante reduzido, o que melhora a eficiência. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos: investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

RESUMEN Introducción El entrenamiento de rehabilitación de alta intensidad producirá fatiga por ejercicio. Objetivo Se propone un algoritmo neuronal de red de retropropagación (BP) para predecir la fatiga deportiva basándose en imágenes de señales de electromiografía (EMG). Métodos El algoritmo de análisis de componentes principales se utiliza para reducir la dimensión de las características de la señal EMG. El ángulo de la articulación de la rodilla se estima mediante el algoritmo de la máquina de aprendizaje por encima del límite regularizado y el algoritmo de red neuronal BP. Resultados el valor de RMSE del algoritmo de la máquina de aprendizaje por encima del límite regularizado es menor que el del algoritmo de red neuronal de BP. Al mismo tiempo, el valor ρ del algoritmo de la máquina de aprendizaje por encima del límite regularizado está más cerca de 1, lo que indica su mayor precisión. Conclusiones El tiempo de entrenamiento del modelo del algoritmo de la máquina de aprendizaje por encima del límite regularizado se ha reducido en gran medida, lo que mejora la eficiencia. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos: investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

Scientific training of sports medicine for balance of knee joint muscle strength of athletes / Treinamento científico de medicina esportiva para equilíbrio da força muscular da articulação do joelho de atletas / Entrenamiento científico de la medicina deportiva para el equilibrio de la fuerza muscular de la articulación de la rodilla de los atletas

ABSTRACT Introduction: As skiers need to complete their movements in high mountains and snow, the athlete's landing's stability is directly related to the movement's success. The stable landing action wins high scores for the athletes' participating actions and protects their safety. Objective: This article analyzes the characteristics of lower limb muscle strength and static balance ability of female freestyle skiing aerials athletes to provide athletes with targeted strength training, evaluation of muscle effects after training, and athlete selection to provide a scientific basis valuable Theoretical reference. Methods: The paper uses isokinetic testing and balance testing methods to study the characteristics of the hip and knee flexor and extensor strengths of the Chinese great female freestyle skiing aerials athletes and the static balance characteristics in four standing positions. Results: The right flexor-extensor force, flexor-extensor force ratio, and average power value of the right hip joint were slightly greater than the left flexor power. The left and right knee joint extensor unit peak weight moments and the left and right average power values were all four indicators. Greater than the flexor, at different test speeds of 60°/s (slow speed) and 240°/s (fast), the peak flexion and extension torque per unit weight, the average power of flexion and extension, the force of flexion and extension, and the average power appear with the increase of the test speed as a significant difference. Conclusions: The research in the thesis recommends reasonable weight control and balanced training of muscle strength, using the condition of moderately increasing exercise speed, to strengthen the training of lower limb extensor strength, provide targeted strength training for athletes, evaluate the muscle effect after training and providing the scientific basis and valuable theoretical reference. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment results.

RESUMO Introdução: Como os esquiadores precisam completar seus movimentos em altas montanhas e neve, a estabilidade de pouso do atleta está diretamente relacionada ao sucesso do movimento. A ação de pouso constante ganha altas pontuações para os participantes e protege sua segurança. Objetivo: este artigo discute as características da força muscular das extremidades inferiores e habilidade de equilíbrio estático de atletas de esqui estilo livre para fornecer aos atletas treinamento de força específico e avaliação pós-treino dos efeitos musculares em atletas selecionados para fornecer uma base científica de referência teórica valiosa. Métodos: O artigo usa testes isocinéticos e métodos de teste de equilíbrio para estudar as características de força dos flexores e extensores de quadril e joelho de grandes atletas chinesas de esqui estilo livre e as características de equilíbrio estático em quatro posições de pé. Resultados: A força flexor-extensora direita, a relação da força flexor-extensora e o valor médio da potência da articulação do quadril direito foram ligeiramente maiores do que a potência do flexor esquerdo. Os momentos máximos de peso da unidade extensora da articulação do joelho esquerdo e direito e os valores médios das potências esquerda e direita foram os quatro indicadores. Maior que o flexor, em diferentes velocidades de teste de 60 ° / s (velocidade lenta) e 240 ° / s (rápido), o torque máximo de flexão e extensão por unidade de peso, a força média de flexão e extensão, a força de flexão e extensão, e a potência média aparece com o aumento da velocidade de teste como uma diferença significativa. Conclusões: A pesquisa na tese recomenda o controle de peso razoável e o treinamento de força muscular balanceado, utilizando a condição de aumentar moderadamente a velocidade do exercício, para fortalecer o treinamento de força extensora de membros inferiores, fornecer treinamento de força específico para atletas, avaliando o efeito muscular após formar e fornecer a base científica e um valioso referencial teórico. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos- investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

RESUMEN Introducción: Como los esquiadores necesitan completar sus movimientos en alta montaña y nieve, la estabilidad del aterrizaje del atleta está directamente relacionada con el éxito del movimiento. La acción de aterrizaje estable gana puntuaciones altas para las participantes y protege su seguridad. Objetivo: Este artículo analiza las características de la fuerza muscular de las extremidades inferiores y la capacidad de equilibrio estático de las atletas de esquí de estilo libre para proporcionar a los atletas un entrenamiento de fuerza específico y una evaluación de los efectos musculares después del entrenamiento en atletas seleccionados para proporcionar una base científica de referencia teórica valiosa. Métodos: El artículo utiliza pruebas isocinéticas y métodos de prueba de equilibrio para estudiar las características de la fuerza de los flexores y extensores de cadera y rodilla de las grandes atletas chinas de esquí de estilo libre femenino y las características del equilibrio estático en cuatro posiciones de pie. Resultados: La fuerza flexora-extensora derecha, la relación de fuerza flexora-extensora y el valor de potencia promedio de la articulación de la cadera derecha fueron ligeramente mayores que la potencia del flexor izquierdo. Los momentos de peso máximo de la unidad extensora de la articulación de la rodilla izquierda y derecha y los valores de potencia promedio izquierda y derecha fueron los cuatro indicadores. Mayor que el flexor, a diferentes velocidades de prueba de 60 ° / s (velocidad lenta) y 240 ° / s (rápido), el par máximo de flexión y extensión por unidad de peso, la potencia promedio de flexión y extensión, la fuerza de flexión y extensión, y la potencia media aparecen con el aumento de la velocidad de prueba como una diferencia significativa. Conclusiones: La investigación en la tesis recomienda un control de peso razonable y un entrenamiento equilibrado de la fuerza muscular, utilizando la condición de aumentar moderadamente la velocidad del ejercicio, para fortalecer el entrenamiento de la fuerza extensora de las extremidades inferiores, proporcionar entrenamiento de fuerza específico para los atletas, evaluar el efecto muscular después del entrenamiento y proporcionar la base científica y una valiosa referencia teórica. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos- investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

Desempenho isocinético de atletas de futsal sub-13 após a prática do protocolo Fifa 11+ / El rendimiento isocinético de atletas de fútbol sala sub-13 después de la práctica de protocolo Fifa 11+ / Isokinetic performance of U-13 futsal athletes after application of the FIFA 11+ protocol

RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o desempenho isocinético da musculatura flexora e extensora do joelho de jogadores de futsal sub-13 após a prática de 18 semanas do protocolo Fifa 11+. Participaram 14 jogadores de futsal do sexo masculino com idade média de 12,58±0,66 anos. A avaliação da força foi realizada através do dinamômetro isocinético (Biodex System Pro 4™), nas velocidades de 60°/s, 180°/s e 300°/s, pré e pós-intervenção. O protocolo Fifa 11+ foi aplicado antes do início de cada treino regular, duas vezes por semana, durante 18 semanas, com duração aproximada de 25 minutos. Na análise pré-intervenção foi encontrada uma diferença entre o membro dominante e o não dominante superior a 10% no pico de torque de flexores e extensores a 60°/s e 180°/s, respectivamente. Já na análise pós-intervenção não foram encontradas tais assimetrias. Houve um aumento da relação agonista/antagonista no lado dominante na velocidade de 60°/s, pós-intervenção, aproximando-se do valor ideal proposto pela literatura (de 60%). Houve, ainda, aumento do desempenho isocinético dos atletas após a intervenção. Neste sentido, conclui-se que a aplicação de 18 semanas do protocolo Fifa 11+ promoveu uma melhora do desempenho isocinético das musculaturas extensoras e flexoras de joelho, além de diminuir as assimetrias musculares entre os membros em jovens atletas de futsal.

RESUMEN El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el desempeño isocinético de la musculatura flexora y extensora de la rodilla de jugadores de fútbol sub-13 después de la práctica de 18 semanas del protocolo FIFA 11+. Participaron 14 jugadores de fútbol del sexo masculino con edad media de 12,58±0,66 años. La evaluación de la fuerza se realizó a través del dinamómetro isocinético (Biodex System Pro 4 ™), a velocidades de 60°/s, 180°/s y 300°/s, pre y post-intervención. El protocolo FIFA 11+ fue aplicado antes del inicio de cada entrenamiento regular, dos veces por semana, durante 18 semanas, con una duración aproximada de 25 minutos. En el análisis previo a la intervención se encontró una diferencia entre el miembro dominante y el no dominante superior al 10% en el pico de torque de flexores y extensores a 60°/s y 180°/s, respectivamente. En el análisis post-intervención no se encontraron tales asimetrías. Se observó un aumento de la relación agonista / antagonista en el lado dominante en la velocidad de 60°/s, post-intervención, aproximándose al valor ideal propuesto por la literatura (del 60%). Se observó un aumento del rendimiento isocinético de los atletas después de la intervención. En este sentido, se concluye que la aplicación de 18 semanas del protocolo FIFA 11+ promovió una mejora del desempeño isocinético de las musculaturas extensoras y flexoras de rodilla, además de disminuir las asimetrías musculares entre los miembros en jóvenes atletas de fútbol.

ABSTRACT This study's objective was to evaluate U-13 futsal players' knee flexor and extensor muscles isokinetic performance, after a 18-week application of the FIFA 11+ protocol. Participants were male futsal players (n = 14) with a mean age of 12.58 ± 0.66 years. The force evaluation was performed pre- and post-intervention using the Biodex System Pro 4™ isokinetic dynamometer, at speeds of 60°/s, 180°/s, and 300°/s. The FIFA 11+ protocol was applied before the start of each regular training, twice a week, for 18 weeks, with an approximate duration of 25 minutes. In the pre-intervention analysis, a higher than 10% difference between dominant and non-dominant limbs was found in flexors' and extensors' peak torque, at the 60°/s and 180°/s speeds, respectively. In the post-intervention analysis, no such asymmetries were found. Post-intervention, there was an increase in the agonist-antagonist ratio on the dominant side, at the 60°/s speed, approaching the ideal value proposed in the literature (60%). There was also an increase in athletes' isokinetic performance. The 18-week application of the FIFA 11+ protocol promoted an improvement in the isokinetic performance of the knee's extensor and flexor muscles, and decreased the muscular asymmetries between the limbs of young futsal athletes.

Fiabilidad y validez concurrente de la app Goniometer Pro vs goniómetro universal en la determinación de la flexión pasiva de rodilla / Reliability and concurrent validity of the app Goniometer Pro vs Universal Goniometer in the determination of passive knee flexion

Resumen: Antecedentes: Los teléfonos inteligentes se han convertido en una parte fundamental de nuestra sociedad, no sólo cotidiana, sino también profesional, pues han surgido numerosas aplicaciones para el ámbito sanitario. El objetivo del estudio fue analizar la fiabilidad y validez concurrente de una app para iPhone en relación con la goniometría tradicional. Material y métodos: Estudio comparativo y descriptivo de validación no experimental a doble ciego. En una muestra de 21 sujetos se realizaron cuatro mediciones de movilidad de rodilla: dos mediante goniometría universal (GU) y dos mediante la aplicación Goniometer-Pro (G-Pro) para iPhone. La radiografía se empleó como medida de referencia del ángulo de flexión de rodilla y fue analizada por un único evaluador que comparó este resultado con el de los otros evaluadores. Resultados: La diferencia entre los valores medios intragrupos fue de 3.148o (± 2.669o) para GU y 2.476o (± 2.638o) para G-Pro. La diferencia de medias intergrupos alcanzó 5.45o. La fiabilidad interobservador fue de 0.990 para GU y 0.993 para G-Pro; en cuanto a la validez, los valores obtenidos fueron 0.976 para GU y 0.992 para G-Pro. Conclusiones: La app G-Pro es una herramienta fiable y con una elevada exactitud para medir el ángulo de flexión de la rodilla. Sus resultados son ligeramente superiores y más precisos a los de la goniometría tradicional.

Abstract: Background: Smartphones have become a fundamental part of our society, not only everyday, but also professional, since many applications have emerged for the health field. The objective of the study was to analyze the reliability and concurrent validity of an app for iPhone in relation to traditional measurement. Material and methods: A non-experimental, double-blind validation and descriptive study. On a sample of 21 subjects, four measurements of knee mobility were performed. Two using universal goniometer (GU) and two through the application Goniometer-Pro (G-Pro) for IPhone. The X-ray was used as a reference measure of the knee flexion angle and was analyzed by a single evaluator who compared this result with that of the other evaluators. Results: The difference between the average intra-group values was 3.148o (± 2.669o) for GU and 2.476o (± 2.638o) for G-Pro. The inter-group mean difference reached 5.45o. The Inter-observer reliability was 0.990 for GU and 0.993 for G-Pro; as for validity, the values obtained were 0.976 for GU and 0.992 for G-Pro. Conclusions: The G-Pro app is a reliable tool with a high accuracy to measure the knee flexion angle. Its results are slightly superior and more accurate to those of traditional instruments.

Body composition, strength static and isokinetic, and bone health: comparative study between active adults and amateur soccer players / Composição corporal, força estática e isocinética, e saúde óssea: estudo comparativo entre adultos ativos e futebolistas amadores

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare tissue composition, total and regional bone mineral content and bone mineral density, static hand grip and knee joint isokinetic strength between amateur soccer players and Control Group. Methods: Cross-sectional study. Air displacement plethysmography was used to estimate body volume and, in turn, density. Body composition, bone mineral content and bone mineral density were assessed for the whole body and at standardized regions using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Static grip strength was assessed with an adjustable dynamometer, and peak torque derived from isokinetic strength dynamometer (concentric muscular knee actions at 60°/s). Magnitude of the differences between groups was examined using d-Cohen. Results: Compared to healthy active adults, soccer players showed larger values of whole body bone mineral content (+651g; d=1.60; p<0.01). In addition, differences between groups were large for whole body bone mineral density (d=1.20 to 1.90; p<0.01): lumbar spine, i.e. L1-L4 (+19.4%), upper limbs (+8.6%) and lower limbs (+16.8%). Soccer players attained larger mean values in strength test given by static hand grip protocol (+5.6kg, d=0.99; p<0.01). Conclusion: Soccer adequately regulates body composition and is associated better bone health parameters (bone mineral content and density at whole-body and at particular sites exposed to mechanical loadings).

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar a composição de tecidos, o conteúdo mineral ósseo e a densidade mineral óssea totais e por regiões do corpo, a força de preensão manual estática, e força isocinética da articulação do joelho, entre um grupo de jogadores de futebol amadores e um Grupo Controle. Métodos: Estudo transversal utilizando pletismografia de ar deslocado para estimar o volume corporal, para subsequente cálculo da densidade corporal. A composição de tecidos, o conteúdo mineral ósseo e a densidade mineral óssea foram avaliados para o corpo todo e regiões padronizadas através da absorciometria de raios-X de dupla energia. A força de preensão manual estática foi avaliada por um dinamômetro ajustável. Os momentos máximos de força das ações musculares concêntricas para os extensores e flexores do joelho foram avaliados pela dinamometria isocinética (60°/s). Foi calculado o valor d-Cohen para apreciar a magnitude do efeito das diferenças entre grupos. Resultados: Os futebolistas apresentaram níveis superiores de conteúdo mineral ósseo em comparação com os adultos ativos do Grupo Controle (+651g; d=1,60; p<0,01) e obtiveram valores superiores de densidade mineral óssea (d: 1,20 a 1,90; p<0,01) para a coluna lombar, L1-L4 (+19,4%), membros superiores (+8,6%) e membros inferiores (+16,8%). Para a força de preensão (estática) a diferença foi moderada (d=0,99; p<0,01) com valores mais elevados apresentados pelo futebolistas (+5,6kg; d=0,99; p<0,01). Conclusão: A prática de futebol promove uma regulação adequada da composição corporal (tecidos magro e gordo) e ganhos na densidade mineral óssea, mais acentuada em partes do corpo com maior exposição aos impactos mecânicos da atividade motora.

Estudio comparativo de reconstrucción de ligamento cruzado anterior con y sin lesiones condrales; resultados funcionales a largo plazo / Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with and without chondral lesions; long term functional results

INTRODUCCIÓN: La lesión del ligamento cruzado anterior (LCA), es una patología frecuente, y el éxito de la reconstrucción depende de diversos factores, tales como la técnica quirúrgica empleada, la edad del paciente, índice masa corporal, nivel de actividad y lesiones asociadas. El objetivo de este estudio es comparar los resultados funcionales a largo plazo de pacientes con lesiones condrales tratadas y sin lesiones condrales sometidos a la reconstrucción de LCA (RLCA), con autoinjerto semitendinoso-gracilis (ST-G). MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio analítico retrospectivo. Cuarenta y nueve pacientes (34 hombres y 15 mujeres), fueron sometidos a la RLCA con autoinjerto ST-G. Se compararon dos grupos. Grupo RLCA + LC: 24 pacientes con lesiones condrales ICRS grado III y IV tratadas en el mismo acto quirúrgico y grupo RLCA: 25 pacientes sin lesiones condrales concomitantes. Las edades promedio fueron de 32 y 28 años en cada grupo respectivamente. La funcionalidad de los pacientes a largo plazo fue evaluada con el test de Lysholm, IKDC y retorno deportivo. Se compararon los promedios de los scores funcionales según cada grupo con Test de Mann-Whitney. La asociación entre ambos grupos y el retorno deportivo se analizó con Test de Chi2. Los análisis estadísticos se realizaron con Stata IC 13. RESULTADOS: El seguimiento promedio fue de 106,8 meses (rango: 86­125). Los resultados funcionales obtenidos al comparar el grupo RLCA + LC vs grupo RLCA fueron significativamente peores en el primero, con un promedio del score de Lysholm de 84,87 vs 94,52 (p = 0.0001) e IKDC de 84,43 vs 92,08 (p = 0,004), respectivamente. El retorno deportivo de cada grupo fue de 70,8% y 88% (p = 0,136). CONCLUSIÓN: La funcionalidad a largo plazo de los pacientes con una RLCA y que tengan alguna LC profunda tratada concomitante, es significativamente inferior que aquellos pacientes con RLCA aislada. No existen diferencias significativas en el porcentaje de retorno deportivo entre ambos grupos.

INTRODUCTION: Anterior cruciate ligament injury is a frequent sports injury, and successful reconstruction depends on diverse factors, such as surgical technique, age, body mass index, level of activity and other concomitant cartilage and meniscal lesions. The objective of this study is to retrospectively compare the long term clinical outcomes of ACL hamstring tendon autograft reconstruction with and without concomitant cartilage injuries. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty nine patients (34 men and 15 women) underwent single bundle transtibial ACL reconstruction and were divided in two groups (Group 1: 24 patients with chondral lesions grade III and IV of the ICRS, and Group 2: 25 patients without chondral lesions). Mean age of both groups was 32 and 28 years, respectively. Clinical outcome was evaluated with Lysholm test, IKDC and return to previous level of sport activities. Mean values of of funcional outcome scores between both groups were compared with Mann-Whitney test. Return to previous level of activity in both groups was analyzed with Chi-2 test. The statistical analysis was performed with Stata IC 13. RESULTS: The mean follow-up period was 106.8 months (range: 86­125). Mean Lysholm test for group 1 vs group 2 was 84.87 and 94.52 (p < 0.001), mean IKDC was 84.43 and 92.08 (p < 0.001), and return to previous sports was 70.8% vs 88% (p = 0.136) for each group. CONCLUSION: Long term clinical outcomes in patients with chondral lesions that underwent ACL reconstruction were significantly lower than patient with isolated ACL injuries. No statistical differences were found in the return to previous sport activities.

Efecto de un entrenamiento deportivo en el compartimiento angular de la extremidad inferior en niños futbolistas de entre 11 y 12 años / Effect of sports training in angular compartment of the lower limbs in children footballers aged 11 to 12 years old

Resumen: La lesión del ligamento cruzado anterior (LCA) constituye una causa importante de reposo en deportistas. En su mayoría, las lesiones del LCA no requieren contacto externo y se asocian con factores de riesgo biomecánicos que aumentan la tensión en el LCA: el aumento del ángulo de valgo de rodilla (VR), flexión de cadera (FC) y una menor flexión de rodilla (FR). El LCA requiere cooperación de los grupos musculares perirrodilla, por lo que la fatiga producida por el ejercicio alteraría el balance y pondría en riesgo a este ligamento. El objetivo del estudio es determinar el comportamiento angular antes y después de una carga física para FC, FR y VR en niños nacidos en los años 2002-2003. Se realizó un estudio clínico no aleatorizado. La muestra consistió en 50 alumnos de escuelas de fútbol nacidos en los años 2002 y 2003. Se comparó el comportamiento angular de FC, FR y VR antes y después de realizar un entrenamiento estandarizado. El comportamiento angular fue medido a través de la realización de la prueba DJ, con datos obtenidos por sensores inerciales. Posterior al ejercicio, aumentaron las tres variables; sólo fue significativo el incremento en la flexión de cadera. Por otra parte, destaca la diferencia encontrada tanto en reposo como postejercicios entre la extremidad de apoyo y la hábil en el peak de valgo angular. Se concluyó que el comportamiento angular de FC aumenta significativamente en ambas extremidades postentrenamiento y que se deben aplicar medidas preventivas para el manejo del valgo en la extremidad de apoyo.

Abstract: Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury is an important cause of days lost in athletes. Most ACL injuries are non-contact and are associated with biomechanical risk factors that increase tension in the ACL: increased knee valgus (KV) and hip flexion (HF) and decreased flexion of knee (KF). Muscle around the knee contributes to knee stability, so fatigue produced by exercise could alter knee balance, increasing LCA tension. The aim of the study is to determine the angular behavior before and after a physical load for CF, RR and RV in children born in 2002-2003. A non-randomized clinical trial was conducted. The sample consisted of 50 students from soccer schools born between 2002 and 2003. The angular behavior of CF, RR and VR was compared, before and after performing standardized training. The angular behavior was measured by performing the DJ test with data obtained by inertial sensors. After exercise, the 3 variables increased, but only HF reached significant difference. Other important finding was the difference found in KV between the dominant leg and the support limb, at both times: rest and post exercise. It was concluded that the angular behavior of CF increases significantly in both limbs post-exercise and that preventive measures should be applied for the management of valgus in the supporting limb.

Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels are associated with functional capacity but not with postural balance in osteoporotic postmenopausal women

OBJECTIVES: In post-menopausal women with osteoporosis, insufficient vitamin D levels decrease calcium fixation in the bones and calcium transport in the sarcoplasmic reticulum, which impairs muscle strength, possibly leading to detrimental consequences for the preservation of functional capacity and postural balance, fall prevention, and fracture risk. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between vitamin D levels and knee muscle strength, postural balance and functional mobility among postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 63 osteoporotic older women (aged 60.6±3.1 years). The subjects completed the Timed Up and Go Test to measure functional mobility, and postural balance was assessed on the AccuSway Plus portable force platform. Maximal strength was tested using an isokinetic dynamometer for knee flexion and extension. The subjects were assessed as a group and were divided into quartiles according to their vitamin D levels. Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT02771834. RESULTS: Vitamin D status was independently associated with the normalized peak torque of the knee extensors (β=0.59; p=0.04) and Timed Up and Go Test (β=-0.07; p<0.001). No between-group differences were observed in the demographic and clinical variables or postural balance; however, significant differences were observed in the Timed Up and Go Test, and the group with the highest vitamin D levels exhibited better performance than the group with the lowest vitamin D levels (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: The serum vitamin D levels were independently associated with normalized knee extension strength and functional mobility in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.

A influência do treinamento de força sobre o défict bilateral para extensão e flexão de joelhos / The influence of strength training in bilateral deficit for extension and knee flexion

Este estudo teve como objetivo verificar a influência de um treinamento de força (TF), unilateral (UL) ou bilateral (BL), no déficit bilateral (DB). O TF foi composto de 2 (duas) séries de 10 (dez) repetições máximas, na cadeira extensora e flexora de joelho, com duração de 8 (oito) semanas e frequência de 3 (três) vezes na semana. Foram randomizados 69 indivíduos em três grupos: grupo unilateral (GU, n=23), realizou o treinamento com uma perna de cada vez, grupo bilateral (GB, n=23) realizou o treinamento com ambas as pernas simultaneamente e o grupo controle (GC, n=23) que não realizou nenhum treinamento neste período. Antes e após o TF, ou não treinamento para o GC, os indivíduos tiveram sua força máxima UL e BL para extensão e flexão de joelho avaliado no dinamômetro isocinético. Tanto o GU quanto o GB produziram aumento estatisticamente significativo (p<0,001) no pico de torque (PT) dos extensores (E) e flexores (F) de joelho do momento pré-intervenção para o momento pós-intervenção no membro direito (D), esquerdo (E) e bilateral (B). O GC não apresentou diferenças estatisticamente significantes no PT dos E e dos F do joelho do momento pré-intervenção para o momento pós-intervenção no membro direito (p=0,769 e p=0,252, respectivamente) e esquerdo (p=0,903 e p=0,114, respectivamente), no entanto, para o PT dos F de joelho, o GC apresentou aumento estatisticamente significante (p=0,004) no teste BL do momento pré-intervenção para o momento pós-intervenção. Houve redução significativa do DB, do momento pré para o pós, apenas para o grupo que executou treinamento bilateral tanto nos E (p<0,001) quanto nos F (p=0,004). Comparando as diferenças percentuais entre os PT antes e após o treinamento dos três grupos estudados, o GC apresentou resultado significativamente menor (p<0,001) do que os grupos experimentais para E e F, Já os grupos de treinamento não apresentaram diferença significativa entre eles para a avaliação BL (p=0,822), ULD (p=0,542) e ULE (p=0,423). Com a designação do tamanho do efeito (TE) do TF na força em indivíduos destreinados em TF, classificado como: trivial 0.51.252.0. Observamos nos E, que o GB produziu um grande ganho de força no teste BL do momento pré para o pós-treinamento e que a execução UL produziu um moderado ganho de força nos testes UL (D e E). Na F observamos que a execução BL produziu também um grande ganho de força nos testes ULD, ULE e BL e na execução UL observamos também um grande ganho de força no teste ULD e um moderado ganho no teste ULE e no BL. Com relação ao TE do TF produzido no DB, observamos que houve uma pequena redução do DB, tanto para os extensores (1.19) quanto para os flexores (0.67) e que o GU e GC também tiveram uma redução do DB, do momento pré para pós-treinamento, mas esta redução foi trivial. Concluímos que qualquer forma de execução do TF, UL ou BL, produz ganho de força em indivíduos destreinados, também verificamos a existência do DB na E e na F de joelhos, em jovens destreinados e que o treinamento BL pode ser mais eficiente na redução do DB em indivíduos destreinados

The object of this study was to care out a force training composed of 2 (two) sets of 10 (ten) maximal repetitions in the knee extensor and flexor chair, with duration of 8 (eight) weeks and frequency of 3 (three) Times in the week. Sixty-nine subjects were randomly assigned to three groups: the Unilateral Group (GU, n=23), performed the training with one leg at a time, Bilateral Group (GB, n=23) underwent training with both legs simultaneously and Control Group (GC, n=23) who did not perform any training in this period. Before and after training, or not training, the individuals had their maximum strength UL and BL for extension (E) and knee flexion (F) evaluated in the isokinetic dynamometer. Both GU and GB produced a statistically significant increase (p<0.001) in peak torque of knee extensors and flexors from the pre-intervention moment to the post-intervention moment in the right, left and bilateral limbs. The CG did not present statistically significant differences in the peak torque of knee extensors and flexors from the pre-intervention moment to the postintervention moment in the right limb (p=0.769 and p=0.252, respectively) and left (p=0.903 and p=0.114, Respectively). However, for the peak torque of the knee flexors, the CG presented a statistically significant increase (p=0.004) in the bilateral test from the preintervention moment to the post-intervention moment. There was a reduction in bilateral deficit, from the pre-post to the post, only for the group that performed bilateral training in both the extensors (p<0.001) than the experimental groups for the extensors. The training groups did not present significant difference between them for (P=0.822), right unilateral (p=0.542) and left unilateral (p=0.423). With the designation of force effect size in untrained, classified as: trivial 0.5 1.25 2.0). We observed in the extensors that GB produced a large effect on the force gain in the bilateral pre-post-training test and that UL execution produced a moderate effect on the UL (D and E) strength gain. In flexion we observed that bilateral execution also produced a great effect on the strength gain in the ULD, ULE and BL tests and in the UL execution we also observed a great force gain effect in the ULD test and a moderate effect in the ULE test and the BL test. In relation to the size of the TF effect produced in the DB, we observed that there was a small effect on DB reduction for both extensors (1.19) and flexors (0.67) and that GU and GC also had a reduction in DB, From pre-post-training, but this reduction was trivial. We concluded that any form of force training, unilateral or bilateral, produces a significant force gain in untrained individuals, we also verify the existence of DB in extension and knee flexion in untrained youth and that bilateral training may be more efficient In reducing this DB

Quantificação da coativação muscular na extensão do joelho em pacientes com lesão do ligamento cruzado anterior / Quantification of muscle coactivation in the extent of knee in patients with cruciate ligament injury previous

A coativação muscular é a ativação simultânea de músculos agonistas e antagonistas. Em pacientes com lesão do ligamento cruzado anterior (LCA), o aumento da coativação muscular na extensão ativa do joelho é considerada uma adaptação neuromuscular compensatória à instabilidade anterior, ajudando a estabilizar e proteger o joelho. O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar a coativação muscular da articulação do joelho durante os movimentos ativos de extensão e de flexão em pacientes com lesão do LCA e comparar com o joelho contralateral sadio. Foram avaliados 32 pacientes com lesão do LCA, entre 18 e 40 anos de idade, e que apresentavam joelho contralateral sadio. A avaliação funcional dos pacientes foi realizada através do escore de Lysholm e através de 3 testes de salto ou hop tests (salto simples, salto triplo e salto triplo alternado). Foi utilizado dinamômetro isocinético (CSMI®, Humac Norm®) para determinar a força isocinética máxima. Durante a avaliação isocinética, foi realizada aquisição da eletromiografia de superfície (EMG) através de eletrodos descartáveis nos músculos vasto lateral, reto femoral, vasto medial, bíceps femoral e semitendíneo. Foram identificados os valores de pico de torque (PT) dos membros lesionado e normal, representados pelo maior valor instantâneo observado pelo dinamômetro durante os movimentos executados. O valor encontrado para a escala de funcionalidade de Lysholm foi de 66,4 ± 17,11 pontos. De acordo com a categorização da escala, 50% dos pacientes foram classificados como Ruim, 26,7% como Regular e os demais como Bom. O membro lesionado obteve desempenho inferior em todas as condições dos testes de salto. O membro lesionado demonstrou valores de PT significativamente inferiores quando comparados ao membro contralateral tanto para extensão quanto para flexão (p < 0,001). Contudo, não foram observadas diferenças significativas relacionadas o ângulo de ocorrência do PT. Foi observada maior coativação dos músculos bíceps e semitendíneo no membro lesionado, entretanto apenas o bíceps apresentou significância estatística. O joelho com lesão do LCA apresenta um aumento da coativação dos isquiotibiais, quando comparado ao membro contralateral sem lesão. Dessa forma, interpreta-se que que ocorre um mecanismo de adaptação contra a instabilidade anterior do joelho

Muscle coactivation is the simultaneous activation of agonist and antagonist muscles. In patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, increased muscle coactivation on active knee extension is considered a compensatory neuromuscular adaptation to anterior instability, helping to stabilize and protect the knee. The aim of this study was to evaluate the muscular coactivation of the knee joint during active extension and flexion movements in patients with ACL injury and to compare it with the contralateral knee. Thirty-two patients with ACL lesion, aged between 18 and 40 years, who had healthy contralateral knee were evaluated. The functional evaluation of the patients was performed through the Lysholm score and through 3 hop tests (single jump, triple jump and alternating triple jump). Isokinetic dynamometer (CSMI®, Humac Norm®) was used to determine maximum isokinetic strength. During the isokinetic evaluation, surface electromyography (EMG) was acquired through disposable electrodes in the vastus lateralis, rectus femoris, vastus medialis, biceps femoris, and semitendinosus muscles. The peak torque values (PT) of the injured and normal limbs, represented by the highest instantaneous value observed by the dynamometer during the movements performed, were identified. The value found for the Lysholm functionality scale was 66.4 ± 17.11 points. According to the categorization of the scale, 50% of the patients were classified as Bad, 26.7% as Regular and the others as Good. The injured member obtained inferior performance in all conditions of the jump tests. The injured limb showed significantly lower PT values when compared to the contralateral limb for both extension and flexion (p

Osteoarthritis model induced by intra-articular monosodium iodoacetate in rats knee

ABSTRACT PURPOSE: To evaluate the usefulness of a knee osteoarthritis model through functional, radiological and microscopic changes of the synovial membrane. METHODS: Forty eight rats were divided randomly into two groups. The first received 0.9% saline in the joint and corresponded to the control group. The second was submitted to experimental osteoarthritis of the right knee induced by monosodium iodoacetate and corresponded to the osteoarthritis group. All animals were subjected to comparative tests of forced ambulation and joint movements, inability to articulate and tactile allodynia on day 1 post-experiment by forced ambulation (Roto-rod test), joint assessment of disability (weight bearing test) and assessment of tactile allodynia (Von Frey test). After inflammatory induction they were divided into four sub-groups corresponding to the scheduled death in 7, 14, 21 and 28 days when they were submitted to radiographic examination of the knee, arthrotomy and collection of the synovial membrane. RESULTS: The osteoarthritis group showed significant differences compared to control group on days 7 and 14 in Roto-rod, in weight bearing and Von Frey tests in all days, and in radiological evaluation. Microscopic examination of the synovial membrane showed abnormalities of inflammatory character at all stages. CONCLUSION: The osteoarthritis induced by intra-articular monosodium iodoacetate in rats knee is a good model to be used in related research, because it provides mensurable changes on joint movements, tactile allodynia, progressive radiological degeneration and microscopic inflammation of the synovial membrane, that represent markers for osteoarthritis evaluation

Effectiveness of a healthy lifestyle intervention for low back pain and osteoarthritis of the knee: protocol and statistical analysis plan for two randomised controlled trials

ABSTRACT Background These trials are the first randomised controlled trials of telephone-based weight management and healthy lifestyle interventions for low back pain and knee osteoarthritis. This article describes the protocol and statistical analysis plan. Method These trials are parallel randomised controlled trials that investigate and compare the effect of a telephone-based weight management and healthy lifestyle intervention for improving pain intensity in overweight or obese patients with low back pain or knee osteoarthritis. The analysis plan was finalised prior to initiation of analyses. All data collected as part of the trial were reviewed, without stratification by group, and classified by baseline characteristics, process of care and trial outcomes. Trial outcomes were classified as primary and secondary outcomes. Appropriate descriptive statistics and statistical testing of between-group differences, where relevant, have been planned and described. Conclusions A protocol for standard analyses was developed for the results of two randomised controlled trials. This protocol describes the data, and the pre-determined statistical tests of relevant outcome measures. The plan demonstrates transparent and verifiable use of the data collected. This a priori protocol will be followed to ensure rigorous standards of data analysis are strictly adhered to.

Analysis of isokinetic muscle function and postural control in individuals with intermittent claudication

BACKGROUND: Intermittent claudication (IC) is a debilitating condition that mostly affects elderly people. IC is manifested by a decrease in ambulatory function. Individuals with IC present with motor and sensory nerve dysfunction in the lower extremities, which may lead to deficits in balance. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to measure postural control and isokinetic muscle function in individuals with intermittent claudication. METHOD: The study included 32 participants of both genders, 16 IC participants (mean age: 64 years, SD=6) and 16 healthy controls (mean age: 67 years, SD=5), which were allocated into two groups: intermittent claudication group (ICG) and control group (CG). Postural control was assessed using the displacement and velocity of the center of pressure (COP) during the sensory organization test (SOT) and the motor control test (MCT). Muscle function of the flexor and extensor muscles of the knee and ankle was measured by an isokinetic dynamometer. Independent t tests were used to calculate the between-group differences. RESULTS: The ICG presented greater displacement (p =0.027) and speed (p =0.033) of the COP in the anteroposterior direction (COPap) during the MCT, as well as longer latency (p =0.004). There were no between-group differences during the SOT. The ICG showed decreased muscle strength and power in the plantar flexors compared to the CG. CONCLUSION: Subjects with IC have lower values of strength and muscle power of plantiflexores, as well as changes in postural control in dynamic conditions. These individuals may be more vulnerable to falls than healthy subjects.

Cambios asociados al envejecimiento normal en los parámetros angulares de la marcha a una velocidad controlada / Changes associated with aging in angular kinematic parameters during a controlled speed walk

Background: During normal aging, a reduction in walking speed and changes in stability are observed. Aim: To characterize and compare gait kinematic parameters of young (YA) and older adults (OA) at a controlled speed. Material and Methods: Gait angular kinematic parameters were analyzed in OA aged over 60 years and YA aged between 20 and 30 years. For data capture, six VICON Bonita cameras were used. Recording were made at a gait speed of 1.2 m/s. Kinematic data were normalized to 100% of the gait cycle using the Polygon 4.1 software. Time windows representing the phases of gait were created for analysis. Results: At the hip-pelvis level, OA reduce their pelvic obliquity motion and increase hip abduction. At the knee level OA reduce movements in the frontal plane during the plantar support and half swing phases. At the ankle level OA reduce their maximum ranges of plantar flexion, during the toe-off and final swing phases. Conclusions: At a controlled speed, kinematic changes observed in OA allow an increase in body support base to maintain gait stability.

Development of Patient Transfer Techniques based on Postural-stability Principles for the Care Helpers in Nursing Homes and Evaluation of Effectiveness

PURPOSE: This study was done to develop a postural-stability patient transfer technique for care helpers in nursing homes and to evaluate its effectiveness. METHODS: Four types of patient transfer techniques (Lifting towards the head board of the bed, turning to the lateral position, sitting upright on the bed, transferring from wheel chair to bed) were practiced in accordance with the following three methods; Care helpers habitually used transfer methods (Method 1), patient transfer methods according to care helper standard textbooks (Method 2), and a method developed by the author ensuring postural-stability (Method 3). The care helpers' muscle activity and four joint angles were measured. The collected data were analyzed using the program SPSS Statistic 21.0. To differentiate the muscle activity and joint angle, the Friedman test was executed and the post-hoc analysis was conducted using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank test. RESULTS: Muscle activity was significantly lower during Method 3 compared to Methods 1 and 2. In addition, the joint angle was significantly lower for the knee and shoulder joint angle while performing Method 3 compared to Methods 1 and 2. DISCUSSION: Findings indicate that using postural-stability patient transfer techniques can contribute to the prevention of musculoskeletal disease which care helpers suffer from due to physically demanding patient care in nursing homes.

Multicenter trial of motion analysis for injury risk prediction: lessons learned from prospective longitudinal large cohort combined biomechanical - epidemiological studies

ABSTRACTOur biodynamics laboratory group has conducted large cohort biomechanical-epidemiological studies targeted at identifying the complex interactions among biomechanical, biological, hormonal, and psychosocial factors that lead to increased risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. The findings from our studies have revealed highly sensitive and specific predictors for ACL injury. Despite the high incidence of ACL injuries among young athletes, larger cohorts are needed to reveal the underlying mechanistic causes of increased risk for ACL injury. In the current study, we have outlined key factors that contribute to the overall success of multicenter, biomechanical-epidemiological investigations designed to test a larger number of athletes who otherwise could not be recruited, screened, or tested at a single institution. Twenty-five female volleyball players were recruited from a single high school team and tested at three biodynamics laboratories. All athletes underwent three-dimensional motion capture analysis of a drop vertical jump task. Kinematic and kinetic variables were compared within and among laboratories. Reliability of peak kinematic variables was consistently rated good-to-excellent. Reliability of peak kinetic variables was consistently rated goodto-excellent within sites, but greater variability was observed between sites. Variables measured in the sagittal plane were typically more reliable than variables measured in the coronal and transverse planes. This study documents the reliability of biomechanical variables that are key to identification of ACL injury mechanisms and of athletes at high risk. These findings indicate the feasibility of executing multicenter, biomechanical investigations that can yield more robust, reliable, and generalizable findings across larger cohorts of athletes.

Kinesio Taping effects on knee extension force among soccer players

Background : Kinesio Taping (KT) is widely used, however the effects of KT on muscle activation and force are contradictory. Objective : To evaluate the effects of KT on knee extension force in soccer players. Method: This is a clinical trial study design. Thirty-four subjects performed two maximal isometric voluntary contractions of the lower limbs pre, immediately post, and 24 hours after tape application on the lower limbs. Both lower limbs were taped, using K-Tape and 3M Micropore tape randomly on the right and left thighs of the participants. Isometric knee extension force was measured for dominant side using a strain gauge. The following variables were assessed: peak force, time to peak force, rate of force development until peak force, time to peak rate of force development, and 200 ms pulse. Results : There were no statistically significant differences in the variables assessed between KT and Micropore conditions (F=0.645, p=0.666) or among testing sessions (pre, post, and 24h after) (F=0.528, p=0.868), and there was no statistical significance (F=0.271, p=0.986) for interaction between tape conditions and testing session. Conclusion: KT did not affect the force-related measures assessed immediately and 24 hours after the KT application compared with Micropore application, during maximal isometric voluntary knee extension. .