CAN SENSORY DISTURBANCES DUE TO INJURY TO THE INFRAPATELLAR BRANCH OF THE SAPHENOUS NERVE BE PREVENTED BY AN OBLIQUE INCISION?

Objective: To evaluate the incidence of injuries to the infrapatellar branch of the saphenous nerve (IPBSN) after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) with an oblique incision for hamstring graft harvesting. Methods: In total, 59 knees (from 57 patients) were evaluated in the follow-up of ACLR for six months. We drew a horizontal line parallel to the ground, passing through the most medial portion of the surgical incision and another, perpendicular to the first, starting at the tibial tuberosity (TT). We measured the length and angle of the cut, the distances from its most medial point to the perpendicular line, and from the TT to the horizontal line. Skin sensitivity was tested with a brush and the altered sensitivity area was measured. Patients were asked about difficulties in activities daily of living (ADL). Results: A total of 27 knees (45.7%) had sensory disorders, which persisted until the sixth postoperative month in 92.6% of them. The ADL were compromised in one knee (3.7%). No significant differences were found between the groups with and without changes in sensitivity regarding age, affected side, incision angle, or measured distances. The incision size was larger in the group without alteration in sensitivity. Conclusions: An oblique incision did not avoid IPBSN injuries. This condition rarely compromised the ADL. Level of Evidence II, Lesser Quality Prospective Study.

Objetivo: Avaliar a incidência de lesões do ramo infrapatelar do nervo safeno (RIPNS) na reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior (RLCA), com incisão oblíqua para a coleta do enxerto dos isquiotibiais. Métodos: 59 joelhos (57 pacientes) foram avaliados no pós-operatório da RCLA, por seis meses. Traçamos uma linha horizontal paralela ao solo, passando pela porção mais medial da incisão cirúrgica, e outra perpendicular à esta, iniciando na tuberosidade tibial (TT). Medimos o comprimento e a angulação do corte, as distâncias do ponto mais medial do corte à linha perpendicular e outra, da TT, à linha horizontal. A sensibilidade da pele foi testada com um pincel, e a área alterada foi mensurada. Os pacientes foram questionados sobre as dificuldades nas atividades diárias da vida (ADV). Resultados: 27 joelhos (45,7%) apresentaram distúrbios sensitivos, persistentes até o sexto mês pós-operatório em 92,6% deles. As ADV foram comprometidas em um joelho (3,7%). Não houve diferença significante entre os grupos com e sem alterações da sensibilidade, relativamente à idade, ao lado comprometido, ao ângulo da incisão ou às distâncias medidas. O tamanho da incisão foi maior no grupo sem alteração de sensibilidade. Conclusões: Uma incisão oblíqua não evitou lesões no RIPNS. Essa condição raramente comprometeu as ADV. Nível de Evidência II, Estudo Prospectivo de Menor Qualidade.

Bicruciate Reconstruction with Bilateral Hamstring Autografts: Technique and Functional Results.

Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and functional results of simultaneous reconstruction of the ACL and PCL with bilateral hamstring autografts. We hypothesized that this reconstruction technique results in less morbidity and has similar results to the ones published in the previous literature. Methods Eighteen patients with bicruciate lesions were selected and treated by arthroscopic surgery with autologous hamstring tendons in a single-stage procedure. The thicker semitendinosus tendon (ST) and the two gracilis tendons (G) were used for a 6-strand PCL reconstruction. The thinner ST was used for a 3-strand ACL reconstruction. The average patient age at surgery was 31 years, and the minimum follow-up was 2 years. Function of the operated knee was evaluated according to the Lysholm scale. Anterior knee laxity was examined with a KT-1000 arthrometer. Posterior laxity was evaluated using stress radiographies. Results Statistically significant improvements were found for all three measurements ( p < 0.001). Knee function by the Lysholm score increased from 43.8 ± 4.1 to 89.9 ± 3.8 post-surgery. The average anterior knee laxity improved from 5.2 + -0.8 mm initially to 2.4 + - 0.5 mm post-surgery. The posterior translation of the tibia relative to the femur decreased from 10 ± 3.4 mm to 3 ± 1.6 mm post-surgery. No patient showed loss of motion in extension or knee flexion. Conclusion The simultaneous bicruciate reconstruction with bilateral hamstring autograft is a valuable option to achieve good functional outcomes and ligamentous stability.

The Influence of Different Hamstrings Assemblies on the Final Graft Diameter in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

Objective This study aimed to compare gracilis and semitendinosus tendon graft diameters in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using quadruple, quintuple, and sextuple assemblies. Another objective was to evaluate the percentage of patients in which each assembly type is possible, depending on the length of each free tendon. Methods Seventy-one patients underwent ACL reconstruction using hamstring tendons. We measured the diameters of the quadruple, quintuple, and sextuple assemblies in all patients. We recorded tendon length and graft diameter from three assembly types. Results Assembly comparison showed a statistically significant difference ( p < 0.001). In each assembly, graft diameter increased by 1 mm, a statistically significant value ( p < 0.001). In 2.8% of patients, the only potential assembly was the quadruple assembly because the free lengths of the 2 tendons removed were lower than 24 cm. The quintuple assembly was possible in 23.9% of subjects, as only the semitendinosus had a minimum length of 24 cm. The sextuple assembly was possible in 73.2% of patients because both tendons were at least 24 cm in length. Conclusion A quintuple or sextuple assembly is possible in 97.2% of cases since the final graft length of at least 8 cm is statistically significant between comparisons.

Músculos Isquiotibiales. Análisis de su Uso y Propuesta de Inclusión en Terminologia Anatomica / Hamstring Muscles. Analysis of its Use and Proposal for Inclusion in Terminologia Anatomica

Terminologia Anatomica Internacional publicada el año 2019 en inglés y el 2001 en español contiene los nombres oficiales de las estructuras anatómicas. Sin embargo, existen términos que no están incluidos en esta terminología, y son ampliamente utilizados, es el caso del término músculos isquiotibiales. El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar la utilización del término músculos isquiotibiales, músculos del compartimento femoral posterior y músculos del compartimento femoral flexor. Se realizó una revisión narrativa que incluyó 37 libros de anatomía, 3 diccionarios de terminología médica y biológica, 10 bases de datos y 15 recursos digitales. En los libros publicados después del año 2001 el 55,6 % utilizaba el término músculos isquiotibiales y el 18,5 % utilizó músculos del compartimento femoral posterior. En ningún diccionario se encontró el uso de los términos músculos isquiotibiales, músculos del compartimento femoral posterior ni músculos del compartimento femoral flexor. En las bases de datos se encontraron 12.104 artículos con el término músculos isquiotibiales, cinco con el término músculos del compartimento femoral posterior y uno con el término músculos del compartimento femoral flexor. En los recursos digitales de anatomía el 50 % utilizaba el término músculos isquiotibiales, el 37,5 % el término músculos del compartimento femoral posterior y el 12,5 % músculos del compartimento femoral flexor. En conclusión, el uso del término músculos isquiotibiales supera ampliamente al uso de los términos indicados por Terminologia Anatomica Internacional. Adicionalmente, este término es anatómicamente descriptivo y unívoco. Al respecto, parece apropiado valorar la incorporación del término músculos isquiotibiales en Terminologia Anatomica Internacional.

SUMMARY: The Terminologia Anatomica published in 2019 in English and 2001 in Spanish conTAIns the official names of anatomical structures. However, there are terms that are not included in this terminology, and are widely used, such as the term "hamstring muscles. The objective of this work was to analyze the use of the terms hamstring muscles, muscles of the posterior compartment of thigh and muscles of the flexor compartment of thigh. A narrative review was carried out that included 37 anatomy books, 3 dictionaries of medical and biological terminology, 10 databases and 15 digital resources. Results: In the books published after 2001, 55.6 % used the term hamstring muscles, 18.5 % muscles of the posterior compartment of thigh and 0 % muscles of the flexor compartment of thigh; In no dictionary was the use of the terms hamstring muscles, muscles of the posterior compartment of thigh or muscles of the flexor compartment of thigh found; In the databases, 12,104 articles were found with the term hamstring muscles, 5 with the term muscles of the posterior compartment of thigh and 1 with the term muscles of the flexor compartment of thigh; In the digital anatomy resources, 50 % used the term hamstring muscles, 37.5 % the term muscles of the posterior compartment of thigh and 12.5 % muscles of the flexor compartment of thigh. In conclusion, the use of the term hamstring muscles far exceeds the use of the terms indicated by the International Anatomical Terminology. Additionally, this term is anatomically descriptive and univocal. In this regard, it seems appropriate to assess the incorporation of the term hamstring muscles in Terminologia Anatomica.

The Influence of Different Hamstrings Assemblies on the Final Graft Diameter in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction / A influência de diferentes montagens dos tendões flexores no diâmetro final do enxerto na reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior

Abstract Objective This study aimed to compare gracilis and semitendinosus tendon graft diameters in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using quadruple, quintuple, and sextuple assemblies. Another objective was to evaluate the percentage of patients in which each assembly type is possible, depending on the length of each free tendon. Methods Seventy-one patients underwent ACL reconstruction using hamstring tendons. We measured the diameters of the quadruple, quintuple, and sextuple assemblies in all patients. We recorded tendon length and graft diameter from three assembly types. Results Assembly comparison showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001). In each assembly, graft diameter increased by 1 mm, a statistically significant value (p < 0.001). In 2.8% of patients, the only potential assembly was the quadruple assembly because the free lengths of the 2 tendons removed were lower than 24 cm. The quintuple assembly was possible in 23.9% of subjects, as only the semitendinosus had a minimum length of 24 cm. The sextuple assembly was possible in 73.2% of patients because both tendons were at least 24 cm in length. Conclusion A quintuple or sextuple assembly is possible in 97.2% of cases since the final graft length of at least 8 cm is statistically significant between comparisons.

Resumo Objetivo Buscamos comparar o diâmetro dos enxertos com utilização dos tendões grácil e semitendíneo na reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior (LCA) utilizando as montagens quádrupla, quíntupla e sêxtupla. Outro objetivo é avaliar em qual porcentagem de pacientes é possível cada tipo de montagem, em função do comprimento de cada tendão livre. Métodos Setenta e um pacientes foram submetidos à reconstrução do LCA utilizando tendões isquitibiais. Foram medidos os diâmetros das montagens quádrupla, quíntupla e sêxtupla em todos pacientes. Registramos os comprimento dos tendões e o diâmetro do enxerto com os três tipos de montagens. Resultados As comparações entre as montagens mostraram diferença estatisticamente significativa (p < 0,001). A cada montagem, aumentou 1 mm o diâmetro do enxerto e isso foi estatisticamente significativo (p < 0,001). Em 2,8% dos pacientes, somente a montagem quádrupla foi possível, pois os comprimentos livres dos 2 tendões retirados foram menores que 24 cm. Em 23,9% desses, foi possível a montagem quíntupla; pois somente o semitendíneo tinha comprimento mínimo de 24 cm e, em 73,2%, foi possível a montagem sêxtupla com o comprimento dos 2 tendões igual ou superior a 24 cm. Conclusão Em 97,2% dos casos foi possível realizar a montagem quíntupla ou sêxtupla, já que o comprimento final do enxerto de no mínimo 8 cm apresenta diferença estatisticamente significante entre as comparações.

Does the Position of the Ankle Matter During the Single Gluteal Bridge in Futsal Players? An Electromyographic Analysis.

CONTEXT: The aim of this study was to analyze the muscle activity of the hamstring muscles and the lateral gastrocnemius during different variants of the single-leg bridge (SLB) in futsal players. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. METHODS: Twenty-two futsal players (age = 24.8 [3.9] y) volunteered to participate in this study. The participants performed 3 variations of the SLB with the knee flexed at 45°. The first position was performed with the ankle in plantar position with flat support, the second with the ankle in dorsiflexion (DF) with heel support, and the third with the ankle in DF and external rotation (ER) with heel support. The Wilcoxon rank-sum test assessed the difference between variables for samples with the rank-biserial correlation effect size. Spearman correlation coefficients were used to examine the associations of the percentage maximal voluntary isometric contraction for each muscle with peak force and rate of force development with 3 different variances of the SLB. RESULTS: The variation of ankle DF and ER with heel support generated higher muscle activity in BF in concentric (P < .01, effect size [ES] = -0.613); isometric (P < .042, ES = -0.494); and eccentric (P < .005, ES = -0.668) contraction than ankle DF with heel support. In contrast, the variation of ankle DF and ER with heel support generated fewer muscle activity in lateral gastrocnemius in concentric (P < .001, ES = 0.779); isometric (P < .003, ES = 0.708); and eccentric (P < .014, ES = 0.589) contraction than ankle DF with heel support. CONCLUSIONS: The position of DF and ER was the best position in SLB to train the BF. It could be convenient to start rehabilitation of the BF with flat foot postition or ankle in DF with heel support and progress with the position of the ankle in DF and ER with heel support.

Can sensory disturbances due to injury to the infrapatellar branch of the saphenous nerve be prevented by an oblique incision? / Distúrbios sensitivos por lesão do ramo infrapatelar do nervo safeno podem ser evitados por uma incisão oblíqua?

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the incidence of injuries to the infrapatellar branch of the saphenous nerve (IPBSN) after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) with an oblique incision for hamstring graft harvesting. Methods: In total, 59 knees (from 57 patients) were evaluated in the follow-up of ACLR for six months. We drew a horizontal line parallel to the ground, passing through the most medial portion of the surgical incision and another, perpendicular to the first, starting at the tibial tuberosity (TT). We measured the length and angle of the cut, the distances from its most medial point to the perpendicular line, and from the TT to the horizontal line. Skin sensitivity was tested with a brush and the altered sensitivity area was measured. Patients were asked about difficulties in activities daily of living (ADL). Results: A total of 27 knees (45.7%) had sensory disorders, which persisted until the sixth postoperative month in 92.6% of them. The ADL were compromised in one knee (3.7%). No significant differences were found between the groups with and without changes in sensitivity regarding age, affected side, incision angle, or measured distances. The incision size was larger in the group without alteration in sensitivity. Conclusions: An oblique incision did not avoid IPBSN injuries. This condition rarely compromised the ADL. Level of Evidence II, Lesser Quality Prospective Study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a incidência de lesões do ramo infrapatelar do nervo safeno (RIPNS) na reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior (RLCA), com incisão oblíqua para a coleta do enxerto dos isquiotibiais. Métodos: 59 joelhos (57 pacientes) foram avaliados no pós-operatório da RCLA, por seis meses. Traçamos uma linha horizontal paralela ao solo, passando pela porção mais medial da incisão cirúrgica, e outra perpendicular à esta, iniciando na tuberosidade tibial (TT). Medimos o comprimento e a angulação do corte, as distâncias do ponto mais medial do corte à linha perpendicular e outra, da TT, à linha horizontal. A sensibilidade da pele foi testada com um pincel, e a área alterada foi mensurada. Os pacientes foram questionados sobre as dificuldades nas atividades diárias da vida (ADV). Resultados: 27 joelhos (45,7%) apresentaram distúrbios sensitivos, persistentes até o sexto mês pós-operatório em 92,6% deles. As ADV foram comprometidas em um joelho (3,7%). Não houve diferença significante entre os grupos com e sem alterações da sensibilidade, relativamente à idade, ao lado comprometido, ao ângulo da incisão ou às distâncias medidas. O tamanho da incisão foi maior no grupo sem alteração de sensibilidade. Conclusões: Uma incisão oblíqua não evitou lesões no RIPNS. Essa condição raramente comprometeu as ADV. Nível de Evidência II, Estudo Prospectivo de Menor Qualidade.

Bicruciate Reconstruction with Bilateral Hamstring Autografts: Technique and Functional Results / Reconstrução dos ligamentos cruzados anterior e posterior com autoenxertos bilaterais dos isquiotibiais: Técnica e resultados funcionais

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and functional results of simultaneous reconstruction of the ACL and PCL with bilateral hamstring autografts. We hypothesized that this reconstruction technique results in less morbidity and has similar results to the ones published in the previous literature. Methods Eighteen patients with bicruciate lesions were selected and treated by arthroscopic surgery with autologous hamstring tendons in a single-stage procedure. The thicker semitendinosus tendon (ST) and the two gracilis tendons (G) were used for a 6-strand PCL reconstruction. The thinner ST was used for a 3-strand ACL reconstruction. The average patient age at surgery was 31 years, and the minimum follow-up was 2 years. Function of the operated knee was evaluated according to the Lysholm scale. Anterior knee laxity was examined with a KT-1000 arthrometer. Posterior laxity was evaluated using stress radiographies. Results Statistically significant improvements were found for all three measurements (p < 0.001). Knee function by the Lysholm score increased from 43.8 ± 4.1 to 89.9 ± 3.8 post-surgery. The average anterior knee laxity improved from 5.2 + −0.8 mm initially to 2.4 + - 0.5 mm post-surgery. The posterior translation of the tibia relative to the femur decreased from 10 ± 3.4 mm to 3 ± 1.6 mm post-surgery. No patient showed loss of motion in extension or knee flexion. Conclusion The simultaneous bicruciate reconstruction with bilateral hamstring autograft is a valuable option to achieve good functional outcomes and ligamentous stability.

Resumo Objetivo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os resultados clínicos e funcionais da reconstrução simultânea do ligamento cruzado anterior (LCA) e ligamento cruzado posterior (LCP) com autoenxertos bilaterais de isquiotibiais. Nossa hipótese é que esta técnica de reconstrução gera menor morbidade e tem resultados semelhantes aos publicados na literatura anterior. Métodos Dezoito pacientes com lesões em LCA e LCP foram selecionados e tratados por cirurgia artroscópica com tendões isquiotibiais autólogos em procedimento único. O tendão semitendinoso (ST) mais espesso e os dois tendões do músculo grácil (G) foram usados para a reconstrução do LCP com seis fios. O ST mais fino foi usado para reconstrução do LCA com três fios. A média de idade dos pacientes à cirurgia foi de 31 anos e o acompanhamento mínimo foi de 2 anos. A função do joelho operado foi avaliada de acordo com a escala de Lysholm. A lassidão anterior do joelho foi examinada com um artrômetro KT-1000. A lassidão posterior foi determinada por meio de radiografias de estresse. Resultados Melhoras estatisticamente significativas foram observadas nas três medidas (p < 0,001). A função do joelho pelo escore de Lysholm aumentou de 43,8 ± 4,1 para 89,9 ± 3,8 após a cirurgia. A lassidão anterior média do joelho melhorou de 5,2 ± 0,8 mm para 2,4 ± 0,5 mm após a cirurgia. A translação posterior da tíbia em relação ao fêmur diminuiu de 10 ± 3,4 mm para 3 ± 1,6 mm no período pós-operatório. Nenhum paciente apresentou perda de movimento em extensão ou flexão do joelho. Conclusão A reconstrução simultânea do LCA e do LCP com autoenxerto bilateral dos isquiotibiais é uma opção valiosa para obtenção de bons resultados funcionais e estabilidade ligamentar.

Outcomes of lower trapezius transfer with hamstring tendons for irreparable rotator cuff tears.

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of the transfer of the lower trapezius with a graft from hamstring tendons in the treatment of irreparable rotator cuff tears . Level IV; Case Series; Treatment Study. Methods: Ten patients diagnosed with irreparable tears of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendons, were evaluated retrospectively -preoperatively, 6 and 12 months postoperatively. They underwent transfer of the prolonged lower trapezius with an autologous graft of the knee flexor tendons. Results: The Shoulder Subjective Value increased from 47 (preoperative) to 71 (1 year after surgery), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Score increased from 26.63 to 75.24. Pain improved from 7.9 to 2.5 on the Visual Analogue Scale. The mean lateral rotation improved from 31° to 51°, flexion from 84° to 122°, and abduction from 76° to 101°. These results have not changed significantly between 6 and 12 months. Discussion: The transfer of the lower trapezius with autologous grafts from the hamstring tendons showed good results in patients under 65 years of age with irreparable rotator cuff tears . Longer follow-up and a greater number of cases are necessary to confirm the efficacy of the transfer.

Effect of Static Stretching on Agonists, Antagonists, and Agonist-Antagonist Combination on Total Training Volume.

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of static stretching (SS) of agonists and antagonists between sets on the total training volume (TTV) performed across multiple sets for the leg extension exercise. Twelve male subjects with experience in resistance training (RT) participated in this study. Subjects performed 10 repetition maximum (10RM) test and retest trials for the leg extension exercise. Four different protocols were randomly applied as follows: quadriceps stretching (AG); hamstrings stretching (AN); quadriceps and hamstrings stretching (AGN); and traditional control without stretching (TR). Significant differences (p≤0.05) were observed in the TTV between the AG (4855.42 ± 1279.38 kg) and AN (6002.08 ± 1805.18 kg), AGN (5977.50 ± 1778.49 kg), and TR (6206.04 ± 1796.15 kg) protocols. These results suggest that when practicing inter-set SS, it should be done for antagonist rather than agonist muscles when the intent is to maximize TTV.

Eficacia de la técnica sostener relajar en comparación con el estiramiento dinámico sobre la flexibilidad de los isquiotibiales / Efficacy of the hold-relax technique compared to dynamic stretching on hamstring flexibility / Eficácia da técnica segurar-relaxar comparada ao alongamento dinâmico na flexibilidade dos isquiotibiais

Objetivo: el estiramiento muscular se aplica con el propósito de aumentar el arco de movimiento. Para este propósito se usan diferentes técnicas, entre ellas: la facilitación neuromuscular propioceptiva (FNP) y el estiramiento dinámico, pero aún no se conoce cuál de ellas es más efectiva. El objetivo de esta investigación fue estimar la eficacia de la técnica sostener relajar en comparación con el estiramiento dinámico sobre la flexibilidad de los isquiotibiales en adultos jóvenes sanos. Metodología: ensayo clínico controlado aleatorizado, con enmascaramiento de dos brazos. En el estudio participaron un total de 32 voluntarios adultos jóvenes con edades entre los 18 y 30 años y fueron aleatorizados a dos grupos de intervención FNP (n = 16), dinámico (n = 16). La flexibilidad de la articulación de la rodilla se evaluó mediante el ángulo poplíteo a través de la goniometría. Resultados: los resultados de las medias edad, peso, talla e índice masa corporal son equivalentes, lo que indica grupos comparables entre sí. No se hallaron diferencias entre los grupos de estiramiento en los promedios ajustados -2.09 (IC95% -7.05 a 2.87). Conclusiones: tanto la técnica dinámica como la FNP aumentaron el arco de movimiento de rodilla, ambas técnicas de estiramiento mostraron diferencias con la línea de base. No se encontraron diferencias entre los grupos de estiramiento.

Objective: Muscle stretching is applied with the purpose of increasing range of motion. Different techniques are used for this purpose, including proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) and dynamic stretching, but it is still unclear which one is more effective. The objective of this research was to estimate the efficacy of the hold-relax technique compared to dynamic stretching on hamstring flexibility in healthy young adults. Methodology: Randomized controlled trial with blinding, consisting of two intervention arms. The study included a total of 32 young adult volunteers aged 18 to 30 years, who were randomized into two intervention groups: PNF (n = 16) and dynamic stretching (n = 16). Knee joint flexibility was assessed using the popliteal angle measured with a goniometer. Results: The mean age, weight, height, and body mass index were found to be equivalent, indicating comparable groups. No significant differences were found between the stretching groups in the adjusted means, with a mean difference of -2.09 (95 % CI -7.05 to 2.87). Conclusions: Both dynamic stretching and PNF demonstrated an increase in knee range of motion, with both stretching techniques showing differences from the baseline. No significant differences were found between the stretching groups.

Finalidade: O alongamento muscular é aplicado com a finalidade de aumentar a ampli-tude de movimento. Para tanto, diversas técnicas são utilizadas, dentre elas: facilitação neuromuscular proprioceptiva (FNP) e alongamento dinâmico, mas ainda não se sabe qual delas é mais eficaz. O objetivo desta investigação foi estimar a eficáciada técnica segurar-relaxar em comparação com o alongamento dinâmico na flexibilidade dos isquiotibiais em adultos jovens saudáveis. Metodologia: Ensaio clínico randomizado, cego, controlado por dois braços. Um total de 32 voluntários adultos jovens com idades entre 18 e 30 anos participaram do estudo e foram randomizados para dois grupos de intervenção FNP (n = 16), dinâmico (n = 16). A flexibilidade da articulação do joelho foi avaliada por meio do ângulo poplíteo por goniometria. Resultados: os resultados das médias de idade, peso, altura e índice de massa corporal são equivalentes, o que indica grupos comparáveis entre si. Não foram encontradas dife-renças entre os grupos de alongamento nas médias ajustadas - 2,09 (IC 95 % -7,05 a 2,87). Conclusões: tanto a técnica dinâmica quanto o PNF aumentaram a amplitude de mo-vimento do joelho, ambas as técnicas de alongamento apresentaram diferenças com a linha de base. Não foram encontradas diferenças entre os grupos de alongamento.

Low Pre-Season Hamstring-to-Quadriceps Strength Ratio Identified in Players Who Further Sustained In-Season Hamstring Strain Injuries: A Retrospective Study from a Brazilian Serie A Team.

A common pre-season injury prevention assessment conducted by professional football clubs is the hamstring-to-quadriceps (H:Q) strength ratio calculated by peak torque (PT). However, it is debatable whether players that present low pre-season H:Q ratios are more susceptible to further sustaining in-season hamstring strain injuries (HSI). Based upon retrospective data from a Brazilian Serie A football squad, a particular season came to our attention as ten out of seventeen (~59%) professional male football players sustained HSI. Therefore, we examined the pre-season H:Q ratios of these players. H:Q conventional (CR) and functional (FR) ratios, and the respective knee extensor/flexor PT from the limbs of players further sustaining in-season HSI (injured players, IP) were compared to the proportional number of dominant/non-dominant limbs from uninjured players (UP) in the squad. FR and CR were ~18-22% lower (p < 0.01), whereas quadriceps concentric PT was ~25% greater for IP than UP (p = 0.002). Low scores of FR and CR were correlated (p < 0.01) with high levels of quadriceps concentric PT (r = -0.66 to -0.77). In conclusion, players who sustained in-season HSI had lower pre-season FR and CR compared to UP, which appears to be associated with higher levels of quadriceps concentric torque than hamstring concentric or eccentric torque.

Terapia a laser de alta intensidade para rigidez muscular dos isquiotibiais: fundamentação e desenho do estudo para estudo controlado randomizado simples-cego / High-intensity laser therapy for hamstring muscle tightness: rationale and study design for a single-blinded randomized controlled trial

CONTEXTO: Sentar-se por muito tempo e um estilo de vida sedentário podem resultar em encurtamento dos isquiotibiais. Um declínio na atividade física regular pode levar a uma diminuição da flexibilidade do músculo em um adulto mais jovem. Aumentar a flexibilidade dos músculos isquiotibiais pode diminuir as possibilidades de lesões e prevenir a dor lombar. A aplicação da terapia a laser de alta intensidade (TLAI) tem demonstrado inúmeros benefícios para diversas condições. No entanto, até o momento, não hápesquisas publicadassobre a eficácia dessaterapia para melhorar o comprimento dos músculos isquiotibiais em adultos jovens saudáveis. Este artigo descreve o protocolo de estudo para investigar os benefícios do TLAI no tratamento da rigidez muscular dos isquiotibiais em adultos jovens. MÉTODOS: 136 indivíduos jovens saudáveis serão recrutados, pelo método de amostragem intencional, para participar de um estudo randomizado, simplescego e controlado por simulação. Os participantes recrutados serão divididos aleatoriamente em dois grupos, o grupo TLAIativo e o grupo TLAI placebo. A duração do tratamento será de 8 a 10 minutos por sessão em ambos os membros inferiores, em dias alternados, durante duas semanas. O teste de extensão ativa do joelho e o teste de sentar e tocar são as medidas de resultado que serão registradas na linha de base, no final do período pós-intervenção de 2 semanas. O valor de p ≤0,05 será considerado estatisticamente significativo. DISCUSSÃO: Os resultados do estudo fornecerão os dados para determinar se aTLAI seria uma futura intervenção não farmacológica não invasiva para reduzir a tensão muscular dos isquiotibiais em adultos jovens. REGISTRO DE ENSAIO: Registro de Ensaios Clínicos NCT05077761.

BACKGROUND: Prolonged sitting and a sedentary lifestyle may result in hamstring shortness. A decline in regular physical activity could lead to a decrease in the flexibility of the muscle in a younger adult. Increasing hamstring muscle flexibility could decrease the possibility of injuries and prevent low back pain. The application of high-intensity laser therapy (HILT) has proved to be innumerable benefits for many conditions. However, to date, no published research is available on the effectiveness of this therapy in improving hamstring muscle length in healthy young adults. This article describes the study protocol for investigating the benefits of HILT in treating hamstring muscle tightness among young adults. METHODS: 136 healthy young individuals will be recruited, by purposive sampling method, to participate in a randomized, single-blinded, sham-controlled study. Recruited participants will be randomly divided into two groups, the active HILT group, and the sham HILT group. The treatment duration will be 8-10 minutes per session, on both lower limbs, for alternate days a week, for two weeks. The active knee extension test and sit-toe and touch test are the outcome measures that will be recorded at baseline, end of the 2-week post-intervention period. The p-value ≤0.05 will be considered statistically significant. DISCUSSION: The study findings will provide the data to determine whether HILT would be a future non-pharmacological non-invasive intervention to reduce hamstring muscle tightness among young adults. TRIAL REGISTRY: Clinical Trials Registry NCT05077761.

Explainable Machine Learning Techniques to Predict Muscle Injuries in Professional Soccer Players through Biomechanical Analysis.

There is a significant risk of injury in sports and intense competition due to the demanding physical and psychological requirements. Hamstring strain injuries (HSIs) are the most prevalent type of injury among professional soccer players and are the leading cause of missed days in the sport. These injuries stem from a combination of factors, making it challenging to pinpoint the most crucial risk factors and their interactions, let alone find effective prevention strategies. Recently, there has been growing recognition of the potential of tools provided by artificial intelligence (AI). However, current studies primarily concentrate on enhancing the performance of complex machine learning models, often overlooking their explanatory capabilities. Consequently, medical teams have difficulty interpreting these models and are hesitant to trust them fully. In light of this, there is an increasing need for advanced injury detection and prediction models that can aid doctors in diagnosing or detecting injuries earlier and with greater accuracy. Accordingly, this study aims to identify the biomarkers of muscle injuries in professional soccer players through biomechanical analysis, employing several ML algorithms such as decision tree (DT) methods, discriminant methods, logistic regression, naive Bayes, support vector machine (SVM), K-nearest neighbor (KNN), ensemble methods, boosted and bagged trees, artificial neural networks (ANNs), and XGBoost. In particular, XGBoost is also used to obtain the most important features. The findings highlight that the variables that most effectively differentiate the groups and could serve as reliable predictors for injury prevention are the maximum muscle strength of the hamstrings and the stiffness of the same muscle. With regard to the 35 techniques employed, a precision of up to 78% was achieved with XGBoost, indicating that by considering scientific evidence, suggestions based on various data sources, and expert opinions, it is possible to attain good precision, thus enhancing the reliability of the results for doctors and trainers. Furthermore, the obtained results strongly align with the existing literature, although further specific studies about this sport are necessary to draw a definitive conclusion.

GRAFTS FOR ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION: SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS.

Objective: This study proposes to systematically review the literature and compare data on (1) function, (2) pain, (3) return to sport, and (4) complications after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with quadriceps tendon autograft (QT) and hamstring tendon autograft (HT). Methods: In June 2021, a systematic review of the EMBASE, MEDLINE/PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and LILACS databases was performed, based on PRISMA guidelines. The search strategy included the keywords: "Previous Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction," "ACL reconstruction," "quadriceps tendon autograft," "quadriceps graft," "Hamstring-Tendon Autografts." Meta-analyses were performed using Review Manager software (RevMan Web). Results: There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding function according to Lysholm score (MD 3.01; CI-0.30, 6.33, p = 0.08), the presence of pain (RR 0.89; CI-0.57, 1.39, p = 0.60), and re-rupture (RR 0.60; IC-0.19, 1.88, p = 0.38). Conclusion: QT and HT autografts show comparatively good results in ACL reconstruction without significant differences regarding function, pain, and rupture after surgical intervention. Level of Evidence II, Systematic Review of Level II Studies.

Objetivo: Revisar sistematicamente a literatura e comparar dados sobre função, dor, retorno ao esporte e complicação após a reconstrução de ligamento cruzado anterior (LCA) com autoenxerto do tendão do quadríceps (TQ) e autoenxerto do tendão dos músculos isquiotibiais (TF). Métodos: Em junho de 2021, foi realizada revisão sistemática das bases de dados EMBASE, MEDLINE/PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials e LILACS, baseada nas diretrizes do Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). A estratégia de pesquisa incluiu as palavras-chave: "Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction", "ACL reconstruction", "quadriceps tendon autograft", "quadriceps graft" e "Hamstring-Tendon Autografts". As metanálises foram realizadas usando o software Review Manager (RevMan Web). Resultados: Não houve diferenças significativas entre os dois grupos com relação à função pelo escore de Lysholm (MD 3,01; IC-0,30, 6,33, p = 0,08), presença de dor (RR 0,89; IC-0,57, 1,39, p = 0,60) e re-ruptura (RR 0,60; IC-0,19, 1,88, p = 0,38). Conclusão: Os autoenxertos de TQ e TF apresentam resultados comparativamente bons na reconstrução do LCA sem diferenças significativas com relação à função, dor e ruptura após a intervenção cirúrgica. Nível de Evidência II, Revisão Sistemática de Estudos de Nível II.

Curso Temporal de los Efectos Agudos de una Sesión de Estiramiento Muscular en Sujetos Jóvenes y Sanos / Time Course of the Acute Effects of a Muscle Stretching Session in Young and Healthy Subjects

Introducción. La duración de los efectos agudos del estiramiento muscular y su relación con el volumen total de estiramiento es un tema controversial. Método. Se distribuyeron aleatoriamente 29 varones jóvenes y deportistas en tres grupos: Control, "protocolo corto" (5 estiramientos x 30' segundos) y "protocolo largo" (10 estiramientos x 30 segundos). Para medir el efecto se usó el Active Knee Extension Test en forma previa y posterior a los 0, 3, 7, 12, 18 y 25 minutos. Cada medición se grabó en video, y se identificó el rango máximo de estiramiento con el software Kinovea. Se realizó comparación pre y postintervención entre grupos e inter grupo. Se incorporó análisis post hoc en medidas repetidas. Resultados. No hubo diferencias en la medición preintervención entre los grupos (P=0,266). Ambos protocolos tuvieron cambios significativos (P<0,007) respecto del grupo control (P=0,65). Todas las mediciones postintervención comparadas con la preintervención presentan diferencias en el protocolo corto (P≤0,018) y largo (P≤0,009). Hubo diferencia entre el grupo control con el de protocolo corto (P≤0,014) y control con protocolo largo (P≤0,004) para todas las mediciones, y una diferencia entre ambos protocolos en el post inmediato (P=0,033) pero no para las mediciones posteriores (P≤0,139). Conclusión. Un protocolo de 150 segundos de estiramiento estático en isquiotibiales en varones asintomáticos jóvenes, presenta efectos por al menos 25 minutos. Al duplicar a 300 segundos sólo presenta diferencia en la medición inmediatamente posterior. Por lo tanto, ambos protocolos son igualmente efectivos, pero el protocolo corto es más eficiente.

Background. The duration of the acute effects of muscle stretching and its relationship with the total volume of stretching is a controversial issue. Methods. 29 young male athletes were randomly distributed into three groups: control, "short protocol" (5 stretches x 30'') and "long protocol" (10 stretches x 30''). To measure the effect, the Active Knee Extension Test was used before and after 0, 3', 7', 12', 18' and 25'. Each measurement was videotaped, and the maximum range of stretch was identified using the Kinovea software. A pre-post intervention comparison was made between groups and inter groups. Post hoc analysis was incorporated into repeated measures. Results. There were no differences in the pre-intervention measurement between the groups (P=0.266). Both protocols had significant changes (P<0.007) compared to the control group (P=0.65). All post-intervention measurements compared to pre-intervention present differences in the short (P≤0.018) and long (P≤0.009) protocol. There was a difference between the control group with the short protocol (P≤0.014) and the control group with the long protocol (P≤0.004) for all measurements, and a difference between both protocols in the immediate post (P=0.033) but not for the measurements. subsequent measurements (P≤0.139). Conclusion. A protocol of 150'' of static stretching in hamstrings in asymptomatic young men, presents effects for at least 25'. When doubling at 300'', it only presents a difference in the immediately subsequent measurement. Therefore, both protocols are equally effective, but the short protocol is more efficient.

Combined anterior cruciate and lateral collateral ligaments reconstruction with ipsilateral hamstring autograft: surgical technique.

Different surgical techniques have been proposed to reconstruct combined anterior cruciate (ACL) and lateral collateral ligaments (LCL). Although these surgical techniques are reliable and reproducible, the number of autologous grafts needed for the reconstruction could be a limiting factor, especially when patients present with multi-ligament knee injuries and the posterior cruciate ligament is also torn. In addition, some of these techniques are not easy to master and have a steep learning curve. We present a surgical procedure that has been used over the last 18 years to reconstruct combined ACL and LCL injuries and has become a reproducible, feasible and time-efficient procedure to approach combined ACL and LCL injuries using an ipsilateral hamstring autograft.

Hold-relax PNF is more effective than unilateral lumbar mobilization on increasing hamstring flexibility: A randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Although lumbar mobilization (LM) and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) are used to increase flexibility in clinical practice, remains unclear which technic is the most effective. This study aims to verify and compare the immediate effect of unilateral LM and hold-relax PNF on hamstring flexibility. METHOD: A randomized, blinded, crossover trial carried out in university research laboratory. Thirty healthy young adults were randomly allocated to three groups, each group receive unilateral, central posterior-anterior LM grade III to the L4 joint, hold-relax PNF and control intervention in a different order with 48 h of washout period. Hamstring flexibility was measured using photogrammetry before and immediately after intervention through range of motion (ROM) change in the Straight Leg Raise Test. T-tests were used to compare ROM within groups, and ANOVA repeated measure followed by Bonferroni post-hoc tests was used for between groups comparison. RESULTS: Two participants were lost to follow-up, leaving 28 for analysis (21.6 ± 2.2 years-old). LM increased 4.5° (95% CI 2.3-6.5°, p = 0.001, d = 0.29) on the straight leg raise test and PNF increased 10.0° (95% CI 7.7-12.2°, p = 0.001, d = 0.7). No statistically significant increase was observed on the control group (p = 0.151, d = 0.08). Further, the technique used significantly influenced ROM (p = 0.001, η²p = 0.37). On the between group analysis, PNF was better than LM (p = 0.005) and control (p = 0.001), whereas LM was no better than the control for hamstring flexibility (p = 0.68). CONCLUSIONS: Although hold-relax PNF and unilateral LM techniques increased ROM, hold-relax PNF was more effective on increasing hamstring flexibility.

Avaliação isocinética da força de contração excêntrica dos músculos isquiotibiais no período pré-operatório de pacientes com lesão de ligamento cruzado anterior / Isokinetic assessment of eccentric hamstring strength in the preoperative period of patients with anterior cruciate ligament injury

Introdução: A força de contração excêntrica é uma moderna medida para definir diferentes parâmetros no estudo da Ortopedia moderna, sendo considerada uns dos recentes temas mais discutidos no quesito ganho de força muscular. O objetivo do trabalho foi analisar o estado da musculatura flexora da coxa (isquiotibiais), através da avaliação de sua força de contração excêntrica, por meio do dinamômetro isocinético no período pré-operatório nos pacientes com lesão de ligamento cruzado anterior. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo observacional entre agosto e dezembro de 2018 de uma clínica especializada em atendimento em Criciúma/SC. Resultados: A média do pico de torque excêntrico da musculatura posterior da coxa em flexão do membro afetado foi de 27,60 ± 10,56 kg, e do membro contralateral atingiu 27,47 ± 6,91 kg. O déficit de força entre os membros teve uma mediana de 9,14 % (0,0 - 61,45), e o tempo médio entre a lesão e o exame isocinético foi de 10,0 (1,0 - 48,0) meses. Observou-se que os maiores déficits de força foram encontrados naqueles indivíduos que tinham maior intervalo de tempo entre a lesão e a realização da avaliação isocinética. Conclusão: Nos indivíduos submetidos ao teste de dinamometria isocinética após lesão do ligamento cruzado anterior, evidenciou-se um déficit na força de contração excêntrica da musculatura isquiotibial entre o membro afetado e contralateral, o que ratifica achados da literatura a respeito da biomecânica articular do joelho. Além disso, maiores déficits foram encontrados naqueles pacientes com maior intervalo de tempo para realização do exame isocinético.

Introduction: Eccentric strength is a modern measurement for defining different parameters in the study of modern orthopaedics, being considered one of the most widely discussed topics in recent times within the subject of muscle strength gain. The aim of this work was to analyze the state of flexor muscles in the thigh (hamstring muscles) by evaluating their eccentric strength with an isokinetic dynamometer during the preoperative period of patients with anterior cruciate ligament injury. Methods: This is a retrospective observational study performed between August and December 2018 at a specialized clinic in Criciúma/SC. Results: The mean eccentric peak torque of the hamstring muscles during flexion of the affected limb was 27.60 ± 10.56 kg and that for the contralateral limb was 27.47 ± 6.91 kg. The strength deficit between limbs had a median value of 9.14% (0.0­61.45) and the mean time between the injury and isokinetic testing was 10.0 (1.0­48.0) months. Higher strength deficits were observed in individuals who had longer periods between the injury and isokinetic testing. Conclusion: In individuals who underwent isokinetic testing after an anterior cruciate ligament injury, there was a deficit between the eccentric hamstring strength of the affected limb and that of the contralateral limb, which corroborates findings in the literature regarding the biomechanics of the knee joint. Moreover, larger deficits were found in patients with longer periods between the injury and isokinetic testing.

The Brazilian version of the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment - Hamstring (VISA-H) Questionnaire: Translation, cross-cultural adaptation and measurement properties.

STUDY DESIGN: Study of diagnostic accuracy/assessment scale. BACKGROUND: Proximal hamstring tendinopathy (PHT) usually causes disability, deep pain in the proximal insertion of the tendon, and limitations in daily life and sports practice. Scales that assess PHT pain and disability may assist practitioners in their clinical decision-making processes. OBJECTIVES: To perform a translation, cross-cultural adaptation and to evaluate the measurement properties of the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment - Hamstring (VISA-H) questionnaire for the Brazilian population. METHODS: The VISA-H was adapted to Brazilian Portuguese (VISA-H-Br) and applied in 2 occasions with 5-8-day intervals. The following measurement properties were evaluated: internal consistency, test-retest reliability, standard error of the measurement (SEM), smallest detectable change (SDC), structural validity, and construct validity. Ninety (n = 90) participants (40 PHT and 50 asymptomatic participants) were evaluated using the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) and VISA-H. PHT was diagnosed via clinical examination. RESULTS: The questionnaire was successfully translated, cross-culturally adapted, and renamed VISA-H-Br. The VISA-H-Br questionnaire demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach α = 0.96), excellent test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.90, CI 95% 0.83-0.93), and strong construct validity (rho = 0.692, p < 0.01 compared to LEFS). The SEM was 2.15 points, and the SDC was 5.96 points. No ceiling or floor effects were detected. CONCLUSION: The Brazilian version of the VISA-H was consistent, reliable, and valid. Therefore, it may be used in clinical practice and research to assess the pain and disability of patients with PHT.