Biomechanical effects of hemin and sildenafil treatments on the aortic wall of chronic-hypoxic lambs.

Introduction: Gestation under chronic hypoxia causes pulmonary hypertension, cardiovascular remodeling, and increased aortic stiffness in the offspring. To mitigate the neonatal cardiovascular risk, pharmacological treatments (such as hemin and sildenafil) have been proposed to improve pulmonary vasodilation. However, little is known about the effects of these treatments on the aorta. Therefore, we studied the effect of hemin and sildenafil treatments in the aorta of lambs gestated and raised at highlands, thereby subjected to chronic hypoxia. Methods: Several biomechanical tests were conducted in the descending thoracic aorta (DTA) and the distal abdominal aorta (DAA), assessing 3 groups of study of hypoxic animals: non-treated (Control) and treated either with hemin or sildenafil. Based on them, the stiffness level has been quantified in both zones, along with the physiological strain in the unloaded aortic duct. Furthermore, a morphological study by histology was conducted in the DTA. Results: Biomechanical results indicate that treatments trigger an increment of axial pre-stress and circumferential residual stress levels in DTA and DAA of lambs exposed to high-altitude chronic hypoxia, which reveals a vasodilatation improvement along with an anti-hypertensive response under this characteristic environmental condition. In addition, histological findings do not reveal significant differences in either structure or microstructural content. Discussion: The biomechanics approach emerges as a valuable study perspective, providing insights to explain the physiological mechanisms of vascular function. According to established results, alterations in the function of the aortic wall may not necessarily be explained by morphostructural changes, but rather by the characteristic mechanical state of the microstructural components that are part of the studied tissue. In this sense, the reported biomechanical changes are beneficial in mitigating the adverse effects of hypobaric hypoxia exposure during gestation and early postnatal life.

Effect of quantitative feed restriction and sex class on sheep skin quality.

The aim was to evaluate the quality of the sheep skin of different sex classes submitted to different levels of feed restriction. Sheep without defined racial pattern of different sex classes (15 non-castrated males, 15 castrated males and 15 females), with initial body weight of 18.1 ± 0.4 kg and mean age of 90 days were distributed in a factorial 3 × 3, with three sex classes and 3 levels of feed restriction (ad libitum intake and restricted intake at 70 and 80%), with 5 repetitions. After slaughter, the skins were collected for physical-mechanical tests. The effect of the sex classes x levels of dietary restriction interaction was observed for transverse thickness and longitudinal rupture elongation (p < 0.05). Animals fed ad libitum had greater longitudinal transverse thickness (p < 0.05). Animals fed ad libitum and 70% feed restriction showed greater transverse elongation at break (p < 0.05). As for the difference between sex classes in the transverse thickness variable for tearing strength, the interaction sex classes x levels of feed restriction for transverse thickness, longitudinal thickness, transverse tearing strength and longitudinal tearing strength occurred (p < 0.05). Feed restriction reduces the physical quality of the skin of sheep of different sex classes, and the use of castrated male sheep in positive energy balance is recommended to obtain leather with greater thickness, longitudinal rupture elongation and transverse tear strength.

Microbiological Quality and Safety of Brazilian Mozzarella Cheese During Production Stages.

This study assessed the microbiological quality and safety of mozzarella during various production stages in northern Tocantins, Brazil, by identifying critical biological points in the industrial environment within a tropical climatic region. Batches of mozzarella were evaluated, from raw milk to primary packaging, with a shelf life of 120 d at 4°C. Indicator microorganisms were quantified, and through microbiological and biomolecular approaches, Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes were identified. In addition, the toxigenic potential of coagulase-positive staphylococci (CPS) was characterized. Results indicated that the raw milk used for mozzarella production had low microbiological quality; pasteurization of raw milk effectively eliminated all identified pathogens and reduced microbiological counts (p > 0.05). An increase in bacterial counts (>2 log colony-forming unit [CFU]/g) and recontamination with Salmonella spp. and CPS, which potentially produce staphylococcal enterotoxin B, were observed during milk coagulation and curd draining. Stretching of the fermented curd reduced the enterobacteria, total coliforms, and Escherichia coli median values by 2.56, 2.64, and 2.3 log CFU/mL, respectively. Similarly, brining the pieces by immersion reduced the quantity of enterobacteria and total coliforms by 2.3 and 1.6 log CFU/mL, respectively. Of interest, in the freshly finished product, Salmonella spp. was present but L. monocytogenes was absent; however, after the shelf-life period, L. monocytogenes was present but Salmonella spp. was absent. Considering the environmental conditions that can promote the multiplication and preservation of pathogens and spoilage of dairy products in tropical climates, it is necessary to review operational hygiene procedures, particularly in milk coagulation vats and fermentation tables. This will ensure the production of high-quality mozzarella cheese with a reduced consumption risk.

Does the sequence of plyometric and dynamic stretching exercises influence subsequent sprint performance? A randomized crossover intervention study.

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the acute effects of the sequence order of drop jumps (DJ) and dynamic stretching (DS) on sprinting performances in competitive athletes and to investigate the relationships between post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) in sprint performance and lower limb power. Thirteen male jumpers and sprinters participated in this study (19 ± 2 years; 177 ± 7 cm; 71.7 ± 5.6 kg). Through a randomized crossover design, the athletes were exposed to three different conditions after a standardized warm-up: DS+DJ, DJ+DS, and control. Sprinting performance over 40 m was analysed with consideration of initial (0 to 20 m) and final acceleration (20 to 40 m) phases. The effect of intervention was examined by two-way repeated-measures of ANOVA. Pearson's correlation test was used to determine the association between PAPE during sprinting and jump performance. There was no effect of any factor on 40-m sprint performance. Meanwhile, the performance at 20-40 m was higher after the DS+DJ condition when compared to baseline (8.79 ± 0.43 vs. 8.91 ± 0.35 m/s; p = 0.015). However, the initial acceleration was worsened in the DJ+DS condition when compared to baseline (6.26 ± 0.25 vs. 6.22 ± 0.26 m/s; p = 0.002). There was a negative correlation between CMJ height and the improvement in final acceleration (r = -0.741; p = 0.004). The use of DS prior to DJ is an effective strategy to improve performance in the final acceleration phase (20-40 m). The athletes with lower levels of lower limb power benefited the most from this PAPE strategy.

A low-cost 2-D sarcomere model to demonstrate titin-related mechanisms for force production.

Given the recently proposed three-filament theory of muscle contraction, we present a low-cost physical sarcomere model aimed at illustrating the role of titin in the production of active force in skeletal muscle. With inexpensive materials, it is possible to illustrate actin-myosin cross-bridge interactions between the thick and thin filaments and demonstrate the two different mechanisms by which titin is thought to contribute to active and passive muscle force. Specifically, the model illustrates how titin, a molecule with springlike properties, may increase its stiffness by binding free calcium upon muscle activation and reducing its extensible length by attaching itself to actin, resulting in the greater force-generating capacity after an active than a passive elongation that has been observed experimentally. The model is simple to build and manipulate, and demonstration to high school students was shown to result in positive perception and improved understanding of the otherwise complex titin-related mechanisms of force production in skeletal and cardiac muscles.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Our physical sarcomere model illustrates not only the classic view of muscle contraction, the sliding filament and cross-bridge theories, but also the newly discovered role of titin in force regulation, called the three-filament theory. The model allows for easy visualization of the role of titin in muscle contraction and aids in explaining complex muscle properties that are not captured by the traditional cross-bridge theory.

Pattern of maximum voluntary contraction in patients with temporomandibular disorder before and after speech therapy with and without use of elastic bandages / Padrão de contração voluntária máxima em pacientes com disfunção temporomandibular antes e após terapia fonoaudiológica com e sem uso de bandagem elástica

ABSTRACT Purpose: to verify if there is an electromyographic difference during maximal (maximum) voluntary contraction of the masseter and temporalis muscles in patients with temporomandibular disorders, before and after speech therapy intervention with and without the use of therapeutic elastic bandages. Methods: an analysis of secondary data from a clinical intervention study, carried out with 17 adult volunteers, diagnosed with temporomandibular muscle dysfunction with or without disc displacement with reduction. The Bandage Group received manual therapy associated with elastic bandages and the No Bandage Group received only manual therapy. Surface electromyography was performed to record the Maximum Voluntary Contraction before and after four weeks of speech therapy intervention. For exploratory analysis, the Mann Whitney and Wilcoxon paired tests were used, with P<0.05. Results: in the Bandage Group, there was a statistically significant decrease in electrical activity during Maximum Voluntary Contraction in the masseter and temporalis muscles on the left side at the post-therapeutic moment. Comparing the pre- and post-intervention between Bandage Group and No Bandage Group, a statistical difference was found in the electrical activity values of the Maximum Voluntary Contraction in the left temporal muscle. Conclusion: manual myofunctional speech therapy, associated or not with the use of therapeutic elastic bandages, impacts the muscle activity of the masseter and temporal muscles during Maximum Voluntary Contraction, whether the values demonstrate relaxation and/or equivalence of the electromyographic values of the masticatory muscles.

RESUMO Objetivo: verificar se há diferença eletromiográfica durante contração voluntária máxima dos músculos masseter e temporal de pacientes com disfunção temporomandibular, antes e após intervenção fonoaudiológica com e sem uso de bandagem elástica terapêutica. Métodos: foi realizada a análise de dados secundários de estudo do tipo intervenção clínica, com 17 voluntárias, adultas, com diagnóstico de disfunção temporomandibular muscular com ou sem deslocamento de disco com redução. O Grupo Bandagem recebeu terapia manual associada à bandagem elástica e o Grupo Sem Bandagem recebeu apenas terapia manual. Foi realizada eletromiografia de superfície para registro da contração voluntária máxima antes e após quatro semanas de intervenção fonoaudiológica. Para análise exploratória foram utilizados os testes: Mann Whitney e Wilcoxon Pareado, com p<0,05. Resultados: no Grupo Bandagem, houve diminuição estatisticamente significante da atividade elétrica durante a Contração Voluntária Máxima nos músculos masseter e temporal do lado esquerdo no momento pós-terapêutico. Na comparação do pré e pós-intervenção entre Grupo Bandagem e Grupo Sem Bandagem, constatou-se diferença estatística nos valores da atividade elétrica de Contração Voluntária Máxima no músculo temporal esquerdo. Conclusão: a terapia fonoaudiológica miofuncional manual, associada ou não ao uso da bandagem elástica terapêutica, impacta a atividade muscular dos músculos masseter e temporal durante a Contração Voluntária Máxima, sejam os valores demonstrando relaxamento e/ou equivalência dos valores eletromiográficos da musculatura mastigatória.

Strategies types on precedent vertical jump stretching / Estrategias sobre los tipos de estiramientos que preceden al salto vertical / Estratégias sobre os tipos de alongamentos que precedem o salto vertical

ABSTRACT Study design: identify a better strategy for static stretching (SS), dynamic stretching (DS), and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) concerning the performance of their applications in countermovement vertical jump (CVJ). A systematic literature review was conducted in May and June 2021 in the Pubmed/MEDLINE, Scopus, LILACS, SPORTDiscus, and Embase databases. The PRISMA-2020 checklist was used. The Cochrane handbook scale and the Downs and Black scale were used for risk of bias analysis. Seventeen studies were included for qualitative analysis. Motor Unit recruitment and its stimulation frequency favor neural factors and muscle strength performance during contraction. Detailed investigations are necessary on the neural factors that modify the reflex responses and motor control, considering the biological characteristics and plastic deformations. The SS is a negative predictor of vertical jump (VJ) performance. The improvements are reduced when the stretching time is longer than 60 seconds, and when associated with PNF, did not reveal significant results. Using the SS before the DS in short periods of 20 seconds and no more than 60 seconds in the pre-activity to the VJ is suggested. In short stretches, the ROM increased both in the knee and the hip, and the hamstring muscles, when in tension, are unfavorable in sports that frequently use the VJ. Therefore, PNF using the technique that involves a process of contracting and relaxing must be investigated in an isolated and specific way, advocating the antagonist group. Thus, decreasing antagonist strength may be favorable for height gain, although contemporary studies are needed to minimize lower stability and muscle control predictors. Level of Evidence II; Systematic Review Study.

RESUMEN Diseño del estudio: identificar una mejor estrategia de estiramiento estático (EE), estiramiento dinámico (ED) y facilitación neuromuscular propioceptiva (FNP) en relación con el rendimiento de sus aplicaciones en salto vertical con contramovimiento (SCM). Se realizó una revisión sistemática de la literatura en mayo y junio de 2021, en las bases de datos Pubmed/MEDLINE, Scopus, LILACS, SPORTDiscus y Embase. Se utilizó la checklist PRISMA-2020. Para el análisis del riesgo de sesgo se utilizaron la Cochrane handbook y la escala de Downs y Black. Se incluyeron 17 estudios para el análisis cualitativo. El reclutamiento de Unidad Motora y su frecuencia de estimulación favorece los factores neurales y el desempeño de la fuerza muscular durante la contracción. Son necesarias investigaciones detalladas sobre los factores neurales que modifican las respuestas reflejas y el control motor considerando las características biológicas y las deformaciones plásticas. El EE es un predictor negativo para el rendimiento de la salto vertical (SV) y las mejoras se reducen cuando el tiempo de estiramiento es mayor a 60 segundos, y cuando se asocia con FNP no revela resultados significativos. Se sugiere utilizar el EE antes del ED en periodos cortos de 20 segundos y no más de 60 segundos en la preactividad al SV. En tramos cortos, la gama de movimientos se incrementó tanto en la rodilla como en la cadera, y los músculos isquiotibiales, cuando están en tensión, son desfavorables en deportes que utilizan frecuentemente el SV. Por tanto, la FNP mediante la técnica que implica un proceso de contracción y relajación debe investigarse de forma aislada y específica, preconizando el grupo antagonista. Por lo tanto, la disminución de la fuerza del antagonista puede ser favorable para la ganancia de altura, aunque se necesitan estudios contemporáneos para minimizar los predictores de menor estabilidad y/o control muscular. Nível de Evidencia II; Estudio de Revisión Sistematica.

RESUMO Design do estudo: identificar uma melhor estratégia de alongamento estático (AE), Alongamento dinâmico (AD) e facilitação neuromuscular proprioceptiva (FNP) em relação ao rendimento de suas aplicações no salto vertical contramovimento (SCM). Desenvolveu-se uma revisão sistemática da Literatura nos meses de maio e junho de 2021, nas bases de dados Pubmed/MEDLINE, Scopus, LILACS, SPORTDiscus e Embase. Utilizou-se o checklist PRISMA-2020. Para análise de risco de viés utilizou-se a escala do Cochrane handbook e a escala de Downs and Black. 17 estudos foram incluídos para análise qualitativa. O recrutamento da Unidade Motora e a sua frequência de estimulações favorecem os fatores neurais e o desempenho da força muscular durante a contração. Investigações circunstanciadas são necessárias sobre os fatores neurais que modificam as respostas reflexas e controle motor considerando as características biológicas e deformações plásticas. O AE é um preditor negativo para o desempenho do salto vertical (SV) e, as melhorias são reduzidas quando o tempo de alongamento é superior a 60 segundos, e quando associado a FNP não revelou resultados significativos. Sugere-se a utilização do AE antes do AD em períodos curtos de 20 segundos e não mais que 60 segundos na pré-atividade ao SV. Nos alongamentos curtos a gama de movimentos aumentou tanto no joelho quanto no quadril e, a musculatura isquiotibial, quando em tensão, é desfavorável em esportes que utilizam frequentemente o SV. Portanto, a FNP com a utilização da técnica que envolve um processo de contrair e relaxar deve ser investigada de forma isolada e específica preconizando o grupo antagonista. Desta forma, diminuir a força do antagonista pode ser favorável para o ganho de altura, embora estudos atualizados sejam necessários para minimizar os preditores de menor estabilidade e/ou controle muscular. Nível de evidência II; Estudo de Revisão Sistemática.

The effect of myofascial release of the physiological chains on the pain and health status in patients with fibromyalgia, compared to passive muscle stretching and a control group: a randomized controlled clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the potential effectiveness of myofascial release compared to passive muscle stretching and to a control group in modulating pain intensity and health status in adults diagnosed with fibromyalgia (FM). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A preliminary randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted, consisting of eight weekly sessions. The participants were divided into three groups: myofascial release group (RG = 13), a muscle stretching group (SG = 13), and a control group (CG = 12), which received advice from a rheumatologist. The outcomes measured were the visual analogue pain scale (VAS), the fibromyalgia impact questionnaire (FIQ) (representing health status), and the number of painful areas. Univariate analyzes of covariance (ANCOVA) were performed at baseline, after 4 weeks (during treatment), after 8 weeks (post-treatment), and after 12 weeks (follow-up). The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) were included as covariates. Clinical trial registration number: NCT: 03408496. RESULTS: After eight weeks, the RG showed lower VAS scores compared to the CG (mean difference 95% CI: -5.10 to -1.26) and the SG (mean difference 95% CI: -4.9 to -0.23) with no difference between the SG and the CG. The total FIQ score for the RG was lower than the CG after 4 weeks (95% CI: -49.92 to -5.61), and 8 weeks (mean difference 95% CI: -52.72 to -15.73), although there was no difference between the RG and SG, as well as between the SG and CG, at both time points. The number of painful body areas was similar in all groups at the four time points. CONCLUSION: Preliminary results suggest that the RG possibly showed greater improvements in pain intensity and health status compared to the CG, and possibly greater improvements in pain intensity compared to the SG.

Myofascial release in fibromyalgia may potentially have greater improvements on pain modulation and health status when compared to medical counseling.Myofascial release, when compared to stretching, may potentially offer greater improvement in pain modulation in fibromyalgia.Myofascial release was not effective in decreasing the number of painful body areas of patients with fibromyalgia.

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.

Global posture reeducation compared with segmental muscle stretching exercises in the treatment of fibromyalgia: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Muscle stretching exercises preserve corporal flexibility and decrease the retraction and shortening of myofascial and articular structures. These exercises are recommended for the treatment of fibromyalgia (FM). The purpose of the study was to verify and compare the effect of muscle stretching exercises on FM patients based on the global posture reeducation method against segmental muscle stretching exercises, both used in concert with an educational approach rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy. METHODS: Forty adults with FM were randomly allocated into two groups: global and segmental. The two kinds of therapies were performed in 10 individual sessions once a week. Two assessments were made: one at baseline and one at the end of therapy. The primary outcome variable was pain intensity (Visual Analog Scale). The secondary outcome variables were multidimensional pain (McGill Pain Questionnaire), the pain threshold at tender points (dolorimetry), attitudes toward chronic pain (Survey of Pain Attitudes-Brief Version), body posture (Postural Assessment Software Protocol), postural control (Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction on Balance), flexibility (sit-and-reach test), the impact of FM on quality of life (Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, FIQ), and self-reported perceptions and body self-care. RESULTS: At the end of treatment, there were no statistically significant differences between the groups in the outcome variables. Furthermore, the groups presented lower pain intensity (baseline vs. final; global group: 6 ± 1.8 vs. 2.2 ± 1.6 cm, p<0.01; segmental group: 6.3 ± 2.1 vs. 2.5 ± 1.7 cm, p<0.01), higher pain threshold (p ≤ 0.01), lower total FIQ score (p < 0.01), and greater postural control (p < 0.01) after treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Muscle stretching exercises based on global posture reeducation and segmental muscle stretching exercises, both used in concert with an educational approach rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy, reduced the pain intensity and impact of FM on quality of life. These exercises also improved FM patients' pain threshold at tender points, attitudes toward chronic pain, and postural control. There were no differences between global posture reeducation and segmental muscle stretching exercises. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02384603 . Registered on 10 March 2015.

Bilateral Idiopathic Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Clinical-Functional Characterization and Efficacy of Two Combined Postoperative Physiotherapeutic Treatments.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of combined association instrument myofascial mobilization (IASTM) and stretching in patients with idiopathic bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) operated on one hand and to analyze the response of the operated (OH) and non-operated (NH) hand according to the sequence of therapies. Research on these parameters has not yet been found in the literature. METHODS: Randomized controlled crossover study with 43 participants using the objective and subjective outcome variables. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups: starting with stretching followed by IASTM and starting with IASTM followed by stretching. Then patients underwent surgery on the hand with more severe involvement and physical therapy rehabilitation was started 30 days after for a period of 4 weeks. After the 1-week interval the participants who started with stretching were referred to IASTM and vice versa, following the same previous patterns. The outpatient reassessments took place at 3 to 6 months. Crossover ANOVA and effect sizes were used as analysis methods. RESULTS: Time was the most significant outcome for all variables both during therapies and at 6-month follow-up. Regarding response to the combined therapies between OH and NH, there were differences for both OH and NH, with the greatest impact on NH for the palmar grip and VAS variables. The treatment sequences were significant for pain on the NH and mental SF-12, suggesting that starting with IASTM followed by stretching had a superior outcome for these outcomes. CONCLUSION: The combination of IASTM with stretching, used in the postoperative period of bilateral idiopathic CTS, proved to be supplementary, with significant results and large effect sizes for most of the outcomes assessed, both during the time of application of the therapies and in the 6-month follow-up for both hands, and may constitute a viable therapeutic alternative for this population.

Corrigendum: Warm-up stretching exercises and physical performance of youth soccer players.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1127669.].

Warm-up stretching exercises and physical performance of youth soccer players.

This study aims to compare the effects of standard warm-up versus warm-up using stretching exercises on the physical performance of male youth soccer players. Eighty-five male soccer players (age: 10.3 ± 4.3 years; body mass index: 19.8 ± 4.3 kg/m2) were assessed for countermovement jump height (CMJ, cm), 10 m, 20 m and 30 m running sprint speed (s) and ball kicking speed (km/h) for the dominant and non-dominant leg under five (randomized) warm-up conditions. Using 72 h of recovery between conditions, the participants completed a control condition (CC) and four experimental conditions, including static stretching (SSC), dynamic stretching (DSC), ballistic stretching (BSC), and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNFC) exercises. All warm-up conditions had a duration of 10 minutes. The main results indicate that no significant differences (p > 0.05) were found between warm-up conditions compared to CC in CMJ (CC = 28.1 ± 4.9; SSC = 28.4 ± 4.9; DSC = 30.9 ± 4.8; BSC = 30.9 ± 5.2; PNFC = 28.4 ± 5.0), 10 m sprint (CC = 2.42 ± 0.4; SSC = 2.50 ± 0.4; DSC = 2.30 ± 0.3; BSC = 2.27 ± 0.3; PNFC = 2.53 ± 0.4), 20 m sprint (CC = 5.42 ± 0.9; SSC = 5.59 ± 0.9; DSC = 5.37 ± 0.9; BSC = 5.40 ± 0.9; PNFC = 5.44 ± 0.9), 30 m sprint (CC = 8.05 ± 1.3; SSC = 8.27 ± 1.3; DSC = 8.01 ± 1.3; BSC = 8.00 ± 1.3; PNFC = 8.12 ± 1.3), ball kicking speed for dominant (CC = 56.2 ± 4.9; SSC = 55.3 ± 5.2; DSC = 56.9 ± 5.8; BSC = 57.3 ± 5.8; PNFC = 55.7 ± 5.2) and non-dominant leg (CC = 52.8 ± 3.4; SSC = 51.8 ± 4.6; DSC = 53.5 ± 5.4; BSC = 53.6 ± 4.9; PNFC = 52.5 ± 4.0). In conclusion, compared to standard warm-up, stretching-based warm-up exerts no effect on male youth soccer players jump height, sprint speed and ball kicking speed.

Self-administered stretching exercises are as effective as motor control exercises for people with chronic non-specific low back pain: a randomised trial.

QUESTION: In people with chronic non-specific low back pain, what is the effect of self-administered stretching exercises relative to motor control exercises on pain intensity, disability, fear avoidance, global perceived effect and flexibility? DESIGN: Randomised trial with concealed allocation, intention-to-treat analysis and blinding of assessors. PARTICIPANTS: One hundred people with chronic non-specific low back pain. INTERVENTIONS: The self-stretching exercise group performed 6 stretches in 40-minute sessions. The motor control exercise group performed trunk stabilising exercises in 40-minute sessions. Both groups performed weekly supervised sessions for 8 weeks with one or more home sessions/week. OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary outcomes were pain intensity (0 to 10 scale) and disability (Oswestry Disability Index). The secondary outcomes were the Fear Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire, global perceived effect, and the fingertip-to-floor test. Measures were taken at baseline and at 8, 13 and 26 weeks. RESULTS: On the 0 to 10 scale, the between-group difference in pain intensity was negligible, with a mean difference of roughly 0 (95% CI -1 to 1) at each time point. Similarly, the between-group difference on the 100-point disability scale was negligible: MD -1 (95% CI -3 to 1) at week 8, MD 1 (95% CI -1 to 3) at week 13 and MD 0 (95% CI -1 to 2) at week 26. The two interventions also had similar effects on the secondary outcomes. CONCLUSION: In people with chronic non-specific low back pain, self-stretching exercises had very similar effects to motor control exercises on pain intensity, disability, fear avoidance, global perceived effect and flexibility up to 18 weeks beyond the end of an 8-week program. Given the established effectiveness of motor control exercises, either intervention could be recommended to people with chronic low back pain. The choice of intervention might be directed by patient preference. REGISTRATION: NCT03128801.

Termoterapia associada com treinamento de flexibilidade não aprimora a amplitude de movimento de joelhos em adultos saudáveis: revisão sistemática de ensaios clínicos randomizados com meta-análise / Thermotherapy associated with flexibility training does not increase the knee range of movement of healthy adults: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

The stretching with thermotherapies associated have been related in the literature as a way to increase the range of motion (ROM), but still are not consensus about this efficacy and costeffectiveness. The muscle stretching is a useful technique in rehabilitation and in physical activities programs, either to gain or maintain the flexibility, as a recovery of musculoskeletal and joint injuries. Objective: To determine the effects of thermotherapies associated to flexibility training in ROM of knee extension in healthy adults. Method: The search strategy was conducted in main databases, as Cochrane Library, LILACS, PEDro, PUBMED/ Medline, Scopus and Web of Science. The searches were done in 2016, and renewed in 2023, in order to achieve new publications along this time. Were selected only randomized clinical trials that have executed a training of hamstrings stretching, associated or not with one or more thermotherapies in healthy young adults, as long as the outcome was knee extension ROM. Only papers in Portuguese or English were assessed. To evaluate risk of bias was used the Cochrane Collaboration's Risk of Bias Tool, and the methodological quality assessment was rated following the PEDro Scale. Results: Eight articles were included, totalizing 260 participants. The papers showed low methodological quality, and uncertain risk of bias. Only chronic effect of local warming and cryotherapy plus stretching showed a statistically significant difference versus control group. However, the thermotherapy action associated with stretching is still unclear, once the results suggest that even without the thermotherapy there are ROM increases. Conclusion: The stretching is effective in knee extension ROM improvement in healthy adults, with or without thermotherapy. New studies with higher methodological rigor and standardized protocols are needed

Os alongamentos com termoterapias associadas têm sido relatados na literatura como forma de aumentar a amplitude de movimento (ADM), mas ainda não há consenso sobre sua eficácia e custo-efetividade. O alongamento muscular é uma técnica útil na reabilitação e em programas de atividades físicas, tanto para ganho ou manutenção da flexibilidade, quanto para recuperação de lesões musculoesqueléticas e articulares. Objetivo: Determinar os efeitos das termoterapias associadas ao treinamento de flexibilidade na ADM de extensão do joelho em adultos saudáveis. Método: A estratégia de busca foi realizada nas principais bases de dados, como Cochrane Library, LILACS, PEDro, PUBMED/ MedLine, Scopus e Web of Science. As buscas foram realizadas em 2016, e renovadas em 2023, a fim de alcançar novas publicações ao longo deste tempo. Foram selecionados apenas ensaios clínicos randomizados que tenham executado um treinamento de alongamento de isquiotibiais, associado ou não a uma ou mais termoterapias, em adultos jovens saudáveis, desde que o desfecho fosse ADM de extensão de joelho. Apenas artigos em português ou inglês foram avaliados. Para avaliar o risco de viés foi usado o Risk of Bias Tool da Cochrane Collaboration, e a avaliação da qualidade metodológica foi classificada de acordo com a Escala PEDro. Resultados: Foram incluídos oito artigos, totalizando 260 participantes. Os artigos apresentaram baixa qualidade metodológica e risco incerto de viés. Apenas o efeito crônico de aquecimento local e crioterapia associados ao alongamento mostrou uma diferença estatisticamente significativa em relação ao grupo controle. No entanto, a ação da termoterapia associada ao alongamento ainda não está clara, uma vez que os resultados sugerem que mesmo sem a termoterapia há aumento da ADM. Conclusão: O alongamento é eficaz na melhora da ADM de extensão do joelho em adultos saudáveis, com ou sem termoterapia. Novos estudos com maior rigor metodológico e protocolos padronizados são necessários

The use of serial casting in the treatment of children with cerebral palsy: a study protocol

Introduction: Cerebral Palsy (CP) is characterized by a disorder of posture and movement, commonly leading to disabling orthopedic alterations, including muscle shortening, especially in the lower limbs. Stretching methods, performed gradually, are necessary to delay the impairment in function from muscle shortening. The use of serial casting aims to promote proper alignment, and an ideal and stable support base, in addition to better bone and joint health, leading to better posture, mobility, muscle function, and, subsequently, increased fitness and health.Objective: evaluate range of motion, postural control, and motor performance in children with CP, using serial casting, as well as to measure its effect on fitness through the autonomic nervous system (ANS).Methods: Sixty children and adolescents with CP, of both sexes, 3 to 12 years of age, will be divided into three groups: Groups A, B, and C, with 20 individuals each. Group A will use serial casting, Group B will use the orthosis continuously (with removal only allowed for bathing), and Group C will use the orthosis in their daily routine. Range of motion of the ankle of first and second resistance levels (R1 and R2), gross motor function measure (GMFM), and balance (measured by BERG scale) will be used in the initial and final assessments, and after 6 months and one year of follow-up. Timed-up-and-go (TUG), load distribution (baropodometry), motor performance measured through a real basketball game and the virtual MoveHero game, analysis of body angulation with "mydartfish", and cardiac autonomic modulation through heart rate variability will be assessed in three different situations: barefoot, with orthosis, and with casting.Conclusion: Serial casting demonstrates the potential to produce positive results in the treatment of individuals with CP regarding better alignment, with consequent motor and autonomic improvement.

Effects of Different Recovery Modalities on Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness, Recovery Perceptions, and Performance Following a Bout of High-Intensity Functional Training.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of the foam rolling technique and static stretching on perceptual and neuromuscular parameters following a bout of high-intensity functional training (HIFT), which consisted of 100 pull-ups, 100 push-ups, 100 sit-ups, and 100 air squats (Angie benchmark) in recreationally trained men (n = 39). Following baseline measurements (Feeling Scale, Visual Analogue Scale, Total Quality Recovery, Sit-and-Reach, Countermovement Jump, and Change-of-Direction t-test), the volunteers performed a single bout of HIFT. At the end of the session, participants were randomly assigned to one of three distinct groups: control (CONT), foam rolling (FR), or static stretching (SS). At the 24 h time-point, a second experimental session was conducted to obtain the post-test values. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Regarding power performance, none of the three groups reached pretest levels at 24 h point of the intervention. However, the CONT group still showed a greater magnitude of effect at the 24 h time-point (ES = 0.51, p ≥ 0.05). Flexibility presented the same recovery pattern as power performance (post × 24 h CONT = ES = 0.28, FR = ES = 0.21, SS = ES = 0.19). At 24 h, all groups presented an impaired performance in the COD t-test (CONT = ES = 0.24, FR = ES = 0.65, SS = ES = 0.56 p ≥ 0.05). The FR protocol resulted in superior recovery perceptions (pre × 24 h TQR = ES = 0.32 p ≥ 0.05). The results of the present study indicate that the use of FR and SS exercises may not be indicated when aiming to restore neuromuscular performance following a single bout of HIFT. The use of the FR technique during the cooldown phase of a HIFT session may be helpful in improving an individual's perception of recovery.

Brazilian Portuguese version and content validity of the Strengthening and Stretching for Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Hand (SARAH).

INTRODUCTION: The Strengthening and Stretching for Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Hand (SARAH) program is a personalized, progressive 12-week exercise program for people with hand problems due to rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Patients are provided with two guidance documents, the 'Patient Exercise Booklet' and the 'Personal Exercise Guide', to continue the exercises independently at home. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to translate and culturally adapt the SARAH protocol into Brazilian Portuguese and validate its content. METHODS: The guidance documents 'Patient Exercise Booklet' and 'Personal Exercise Guide' of the SARAH program were translated and culturally adapted to Brazilian Portuguese. The content validity was obtained by calculating the content validity index (CVI). RESULTS: The Brazilian version of the SARAH protocol reached semantic, idiomatic, conceptual, and cultural equivalences. The CVI was greater than 0.8, corresponding to a satisfactory index. The verbal comprehension was 4.9, showing good verbal comprehension of the target population. CONCLUSION: The Brazilian Portuguese version of the SARAH protocol is available to Brazilian people with compromised hands due to RA with satisfactory content validity.

The effects of stretching on training cyclists / Os efeitos do alongamento no treinamento de ciclistas / Los efectos de los estiramientos en el entrenamiento de ciclistas

ABSTRACT Introduction Scientific and rational post-competition training can help athletes mobilize their competitive state. Stretching is an integral part of the physical recovery program after a cycling event, increasing muscle extensibility, decreasing muscle soreness, and the likelihood of injury. Objective This study aims to analyze the effect of stretching training on cyclists. Methods This paper selects 20 cyclists who perform stretching training after the competition. The athletes' fatigue recovery after stretching training and the probability of sports injuries after stretching exercise are statistically analyzed. Results The athletes demonstrated poor physical flexibility before stretching. In the forward bending test, the athletes demonstrated scores of 15.31 and 17.89, respectively. After stretching training, the athletes improved to 23.68 and 25.36 in the seated forward flexion test. The data collected were statistically significant (P<0.05). Conclusion Stretching exercises can effectively improve the competitive ability of cyclists. It is recommended that athletes devote about 10 to 15 minutes of relaxation and stretching exercises after cycling. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment outcomes.

RESUMO Introdução O treinamento científico e racional pós-competição pode ajudar o atleta a mobilizar seu estado competitivo. O alongamento é parte integrante do programa de recuperação física após um evento de ciclismo aumentando a extensibilidade muscular, diminuindo a dor muscular e a probabilidade de lesões. Objetivo O presente estudo visa analisar o efeito do treinamento de alongamento sobre os ciclistas. Métodos Este trabalho seleciona 20 ciclistas que realizam o treinamento de alongamento após a competição. A análise da recuperação da fadiga dos atletas após o treinamento de alongamento e a probabilidade de lesões esportivas após o exercício de alongamento são analisados estatisticamente. Resultados Os atletas demonstraram pouca flexibilidade física antes do alongamento. No teste de flexão para frente, os atletas demonstraram resultados de 15,31 e 17,89, respectivamente. Os atletas melhoraram para 23,68 e 25,36 no teste de flexão sentado para frente após o treinamento de alongamento. Os dados coletados foram estatisticamente significativos (P<0,05). Conclusão Os exercícios de alongamento podem efetivamente melhorar a habilidade competitiva dos ciclistas. Recomenda-se aos atletas dedicarem cerca de 10 a 15 minutos de exercícios de relaxamento e alongamento após o ciclismo. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos - investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

RESUMEN Introducción El entrenamiento científico y racional después de la competición puede ayudar al deportista a movilizar su estado competitivo. Los estiramientos son una parte integral del programa de recuperación física después de una prueba de ciclismo, lo que aumenta la extensibilidad de los músculos y disminuye el dolor muscular y la probabilidad de lesiones. Objetivo El presente estudio pretende analizar el efecto del entrenamiento de estiramientos en ciclistas. Métodos Este trabajo selecciona a 20 ciclistas que realizan un entrenamiento de estiramiento después de la competición. Se analizan estadísticamente la recuperación de la fatiga de los atletas después del entrenamiento de estiramiento y la probabilidad de lesiones deportivas después del ejercicio de estiramiento. Resultados Los atletas mostraron poca flexibilidad física antes de los estiramientos. En la prueba de flexión hacia delante, los atletas demostraron resultados de 15,31 y 17,89, respectivamente. Los atletas mejoraron a 23,68 y 25,36 en la prueba de flexión hacia delante sentados después del entrenamiento de estiramiento. Los datos recogidos fueron estadísticamente significativos (P<0,05). Conclusión Los ejercicios de estiramiento pueden mejorar eficazmente la capacidad competitiva de los ciclistas. Se recomienda que los deportistas dediquen entre 10 y 15 minutos a ejercicios de relajación y estiramiento después del ciclismo. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

Influence of the spring constant change on the electromyography activity of muscles of the powerhouse and shoulder during the long stretch exercise / Influencia del cambio de la constante elástica de las muelles en la actividad electromiográfica de los músculos del powerhouse y del hombro durante el ejercicio de long stretch / Influência da mudança na constante elástica da mola na atividade eletromiográfica de músculos do powerhouse e do ombro durante o exercício de long stretch

ABSTRACT This study aimed to verify the effect of the spring constant change on the electromyographic activity of the powerhouse and shoulder muscles during the long stretch exercise. In total, 15 Pilates practitioners performed the Long Stretch exercise on the reformer with three different spring constants: (1) k=0.19kg/cm with 1 red spring; (2) k=0.27kg/cm with 1 red spring and 1 yellow; and (3) k=0.38kg/cm with 2 red springs. The Electromyographic activity of Rectus Abdominis (RA), External Oblique (EO), Internal Oblique/Transversus abdominis (OI/TS), Multifidus (MU), Iliocostalis (IC), Longissimus (LG), Lower Trapezius (LT), and Anterior Deltoid (AD) were evaluated. We observed that as the spring constant increases, the RA, OE, OI/TS muscles decrease their EMG activity, while the AD, LT, and LG increase their EMG activity. The MU and IC muscles were not influenced in their EMG activities. Therefore, we observed an influence of the change of the spring constant on the electromyographic activity of the RA, OE, OI/LG, AD, and LT muscles. However, we found no influence of the spring constant on the EMG activities of the MU and IC muscles during the long stretch.

RESUMEN El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el efecto del cambio de la constante de la muelle en la actividad electromiográfica (EMG) de los músculos del powerhouse y del hombro durante el ejercicio de long stretch. En el estudio participaron quince practicantes de pilates que realizaron el ejercicio long stretch en el reformer con tres constantes elásticas: (1) k=0,19kg/cm, representado por 1 muelle roja; (2) k=0,27kg/cm, representado por 1 muelle roja y 1 muelle amarilla; y (3) k=0,38kg/cm, representado por 2 muelles rojas. Se evaluaron las actividades EMG de los músculos recto abdominal (RA), oblicuo externo (OE), oblicuo interno/transverso (OI/TS), multífidos (MU), iliocostal (IC), longuissimus (LG), deltoides anterior (DA) y trapecio inferior (TI). Se pudo observar que a medida que aumenta la constante elástica de la muelle, los músculos RA, OE, OI/TS disminuyen su actividad EMG, mientras que los músculos DA, TI y LG aumentan su actividad EMG. Los músculos MU e IC no fueron influenciados en sus actividades EMG. Se puede concluir que hubo influencia del cambio en la constante elástica de la muelle sobre la actividad EMG de los músculos RA, OE, OI/TS, LG, DA y TI durante el long stretch, pero no hubo influencia en las actividades EMG de los músculos MU e IC.

RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo é verificar o efeito da mudança da constante elástica na atividade eletromiográfica (EMG) dos músculos do powerhouse e do ombro durante o exercício de long stretch. Participaram da pesquisa 15 praticantes de Pilates que executaram o exercício de long stretch no reformer com três constantes elásticas: (1) k=0,19kg/cm, representado por uma mola vermelha; (2) k=0,27kg/cm, representado por uma mola vermelha e uma mola amarela; e (3) k=0,38kg/cm, representado por duas molas vermelhas. Foram avaliadas as atividades EMGs dos músculos reto abdominal (RA), oblíquo externo (OE), oblíquo interno/transverso (OI/TS), multífidos (MU), iliocostal (IC), longuíssimo (LG), deltoide anterior (DA) e trapézio inferior (TI). Pode-se observar que, conforme a constante elástica aumenta, os músculos RA, OE, OI/TS diminuem suas atividades EMG, enquanto os músculos DA, TI e LG as aumentam. Os músculos MU e IC não foram tiveram suas atividades EMG influenciadas. Portanto, conclui-se que houve influência da mudança da constante elástica sobre as atividades EMG dos músculos RA, OE, OI/TS, LG, DA e TI durante o long stretch, mas não nas atividades EMG dos músculos MU e IC.