Knee Isokinetic Profiles and Reference Values of Professional Female Soccer Players.

Few studies have previously evaluated isokinetic parameters in female soccer players in comparison to those in males. The aim of this study was to describe normative quadriceps (Q) and hamstring (H) muscle strength values in professional female soccer players and to examine differences between dominant leg (DL) and nondominant leg (NDL). A standardized test protocol of concentric knee extension and flexion test protocol was conducted using the dynamometer isokinetic system (IsoMEd 2000). All the participants were healthy female professional soccer players from Spanish first and second division teams. Players were assessed for peak torque (PT) and maximum work (MW) values at 60°/s, 180°/s, and 240°/s. The mean difference was 7.17 (p-value = 0.0036), 4.4 (p-value = 0.0386), and 4.25 Nm (p-value = 0.0241) at speed 60°, 180°, and 240°/s, respectively. No statistically significant differences were detected for H-Q values between DL and NDL. This difference was 6.44 (p-value = 0.0449), and 5.87 J (p-value = 0.0266) at speed 60°, and 180°/s. The present study can be a tool that health professionals working with female professional soccer players in their care can use to assess and monitor a particular player.

Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Responses to an Isokinetic Testing Protocol in Professional Soccer Players.

The aim of this study was to determine blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) responses triggered during an isokinetic testing protocol in professional soccer players and compare cardiovascular parameters at completion of this isokinetic protocol with those during a treadmill test. Using purposive sampling, 63 professional soccer players were recruited. Cardiovascular responses were measured noninvasively during a bilateral testing protocol of knee flexion and extension. Treadmill ergospirometry following an incremental speed protocol was performed to analyze the same cardiovascular parameters at rest and at completion of this test. There were significant differences in diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and HR according to field position. The parameters presented high homogeneity at both competitive levels. Systolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, HR, and rate pressure product at completion of the treadmill test were significantly higher than those at completion of the isokinetic protocol. Intermittent isokinetic testing protocol of the knee triggers normal and safe BP and HR responses in healthy professional soccer players. The HR of the defenders was higher than those of the forwards and midfielders but was independent of the competitive level. The values of cardiovascular parameters at isokinetic protocol completion were lower than those during the treadmill test.

Analysis of the Microbiota of the Physiotherapist's Environment.

OBJECTIVES: To analyze the microbiota of the physiotherapist's work environment to understand the existing potential risks and to adopt appropriate preventive measures. DESIGN: Cross-sectional descriptive observational study. SETTING: Physiotherapist's working environment. PARTICIPANTS: Physiotherapy and rehabilitation centers (N=19). INTERVENTIONS: A microbiological sampling was carried out in the physiotherapy centers. The samples were studied using the usual culture and analysis methodology for characterization and isolation of a range of bacteria. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Absolute and relative frequency of microorganism isolation. RESULTS: In the analysis, pathogens normally responsible for nosocomial infections were detected, especially on instruments and equipment used by the physiotherapist such as sponge electrodes, and were significantly more contaminated than the rest of the places studied (P<.01). CONCLUSION: This situation confirms the absence of measures and protocols for the prevention and control of such infections in the physiotherapist's environment, which is why they must be considered to protect both physiotherapy professionals and patients.