The effects of TRX suspension training on sarcopenic biomarkers and functional abilities in elderlies with sarcopenia: a controlled clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Sarcopenia is an age-related progressive loss of muscle mass and strength that can be modulated by resistance training. This study aimed to investigate the effects of TRX Suspension Training (TST) on serum levels of neuromuscular and growth factors and functional indices in elderly men with sarcopenia, an age-related condition characterized by progressive muscle mass and strength loss. METHODS: Nineteen sarcopenic elderly men (age = 74.87 ± 4.58 years) were randomly assigned into two groups, the TST group (n = 10) and the control group (n = 9). Serum concentrations of regulatory muscle markers, anthropometric and body composition indices, and functional tests were evaluated at baseline and after 8 weeks. The training protocol consisted of eight weeks of TRX exercises, with three weekly sessions. RESULTS: After 8 weeks of training, growth factors such as Follistatin (FST) (P = 0.001), 22 kDa C-terminal agrin fragment (CAF) (P = 0.031), and growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) (P = 0.049) increased significantly in the training group in comparison to the control group and Myostatin (MSTN) (P = 0.002) had a significant decrease. However, there was no significant difference in ASMM/m2 (P = 0.527), SMM/m2 (P = 0.621), or Body fat mass (P = 0.433) within or between groups. In addition, the TRX Suspension Training had a significant effect on the functional tests and improved gait speed (P = 0.037), chair stand (P = 0.016), and TUG (P = 0.016) as well as Handgrip strength (P = 0.035). CONCLUSION: Our findings highlight the efficacy of TRX Suspension Training in enhancing the serum levels of muscle growth factors and functional capacities among elderly individuals with sarcopenia. Therefore, considering the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, this protocol can prove beneficial for this demographic group. TRIAL REGISTRY: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials identifier: IRCT20230727058944N1, prospectively registered 20-09-2023, https://en.irct.ir/trial/71635.

Interactive scalp acupuncture combined with suspension digital occupational therapy for upper limb motor dysfunction after stroke: a multi-center randomized controlled trial. / äº’åŠ¨å¼å¤´é’ˆç»“åˆæ‚¬åŠä¸‹æ•°å­—ä½œä¸šç–—æ³•æ²»ç–—è„‘å’ä¸­åŽä¸Šè‚¢è¿åŠ¨åŠŸèƒ½éšœç¢ï¼šå¤šä¸­å¿ƒéšæœºå¯¹ç §è¯•éªŒ.

OBJECTIVES: To observe the effects of interactive scalp acupuncture on upper limb motor function and activities of daily living in patients with upper limb motor dysfunction after stroke. METHODS: One hundred and twenty patients with upper limb motor dysfunction after stroke were randomly divided into an observation group(60 cases, 2 cases dropped out)and a control group(60 cases, 1 case dropped out). Both groups were treated with routine medication and rehabilitation. The observation group was treated with interactive scalp acupuncture combined with suspension digital occupational therapy, interactive scalp acupuncture was applied at middle 2/5 of the parietal and temporal anterior oblique line, middle 2/5 of the parietal and temporal posterior oblique line and second lateral line of parietal of the hemiparalysis contralateral side, 30 min each time.The control group was treated with suspension digital occupational therapy alone. The treatment was given once a day, 5 times a week for 4 weeks in the two groups. The scores of Fugl-Meyer assessment scale of upper extremity(FMA-UE), action research arm test(ARAT), the modified Barthel index (MBI) and surface electromyography(sEMG)signal of the biceps and triceps on the affected side were observed before and after treatment in the two groups, and the clinical efficacy was evaluated. RESULTS: After treatment, the FMA-UE, ARAT and MBI scores were increased compared with those before treatment in both groups(P<0.05), the changes of the observation group were greater than those in the control group(P<0.05). After treatment, the integrated electromyography(iEMG)value and root mean square(RMS)value of the biceps and triceps on the affected side during elbow flexion and extension were increased compared with those before treatment in both groups(P<0.05), the changes of the observation group were greater than those in the control group(P<0.05). The total effective rate was 94.8%(55/58) in the observation group, which was higher than 83.1%(49/59) in the control group(P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Interactive scalp acupuncture could improve upper limb motor function and activities of daily living in patients with upper limb motor dysfunction after stroke.

A Quasi-Randomized Clinical Trial to Compare the Effects of Suspension Versus Instability Training on Balance.

CONTEXT: Suspension training devices are becoming increasingly popular. Most studies analyzed the effectiveness according to diverse measures in patients with or without conditions at any age. The characteristics of suspension training are very specific and can increase instability and; therefore, enhance balance. The goal was to determine the effects of suspension training on balance by comparing it with instability training. DESIGN: Two-arm, randomized trial. METHODS: 44 young adults, aged 22.4 years old, with no musculoskeletal condition, took part. There were 2 interventions, suspension and instability training, designed with 12 sessions in 4 weeks. The primary outcome was the Y-Balance test. Other balance outcomes were the Emery and jumping sideways tests, and platform measures while standing. RESULTS: Suspension and instability training were effective in enhancing balance in terms of the primary outcome, the Y-Balance test, with no between-group differences. Instability training enhanced the Emery test over suspension training (P = .018), but the latter was more effective in the jumping sideways test (P = .003). Neither of the training improved static balance measures. CONCLUSIONS: Training with suspension devices is effective in enhancing dynamic balance, with similar improvements to instability training. Importantly, the magnitude of change and the frequency of responders to intervention in terms of motor coordination and keeping balance in unstable conditions appear to be sensitive to the type of training.

Adlay Consumption Combined with Suspension Training Improves Blood Lipids and Pulse Wave Velocity in Middle-Aged Women.

Middle-aged women have an increased risk of chronic degenerative diseases and reduced physical strength, which can lead to decreased vascular function and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. However, these problems can be treated or prevented with healthy nutrition and regular exercise. We focused on these benefits as recent studies have reported the potential synergistic effects of suspension training and nutrition. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the effects of 12 weeks of adlay intake and suspension training on improvements in body composition, physical fitness, blood lipids, and arterial stiffness in middle-aged women. Neither the adlay + suspension exercise (ASEG) nor suspension exercise groups (SEG) showed significant changes in body composition. Nonetheless, with respect to physical fitness, there was a difference in time among all variables except flexibility, though the ASEG showed a more significant effect than the SEG. Regarding blood lipids, significant interaction effects were found for triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, while only the ASEG significantly improved these parameters. Furthermore, pulse wave velocity was only significantly decreased in the ASEG. In summary, performing suspension exercises for 12 weeks improved physical strength in middle-aged women. Additionally, when adlay was consumed simultaneously, blood lipids and arterial stiffness were improved.

The Effects of Suspension Training on Dynamic, Static Balance, and Stability: An Interventional Study.

Background and Objectives: While suspension training devices are increasingly gaining popularity, there is limited evidence on their effects on balance, and no comprehensive assessment has been conducted. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a 9-session suspension training program on dynamic and static balance, stability, and functional performance. Materials and Methods: A total of forty-eight healthy adults, aged between 18 and 30, participated in a 9-session suspension training program. The program included exercises targeting upper and lower body muscles as well as core muscles. Balance was comprehensively assessed using various dynamic balance tests, including the Y Balance Test (YBT) as the primary outcome, single-leg Emery test, and sideways jumping test. Static balance was evaluated through the monopedal and bipedal Romberg tests. Changes from baseline were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA test. Results: Thirty-nine participants (mean age: 21.8 years) completed the intervention. The intervention resulted in significant improvements in YBT, jumping sideways, Emery, and 30s-SST scores (p < 0.001). Platform measures indicated enhanced monopedal stability (p < 0.001) but did not show a significant effect on bipedal stability (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Suspension training is a safe and feasible method for improving dynamic balance and functional performance in healthy, untrained young adults. However, it does not appear to significantly impact the ability to maintain a static posture while standing.

Superimposed vibration on suspended push-ups.

Background: Superimposition of vibration has been proposed in sports training using several devices and methods to enhance muscle activation and strength adaptations. Due to the popularity of suspension training, vibration systems have recently been developed to increase the effects of this training method. The present cross-sectional study aims to examine the effects of superimposing vibration on one of the most popular exercises in strength and conditioning programs: push-ups. Methods: Twenty-eight physically active men and women executed push-ups in three suspended conditions (non-vibration, vibration at 25 Hz, and vibration at 40 Hz). OMNI-Res scale was registered, and surface electromyographic signals were measured for the activity of the right and left external oblique, anterior deltoid, triceps brachii, sternal, and clavicular heads of the pectoralis major. Results: A linear mixed model indicated a significant fixed effect for vibration at 25 Hz and 40 Hz on muscle activity. Suspended push-ups with superimposed vibration (25 Hz and 40 Hz) showed a significant higher activity on left (25 Hz: p = 0.036, d = 0.34; 40 Hz: p = 0.003, d = 0.48) and right external oblique (25 Hz: p = 0.004, d = 0.36; 40 Hz: p = 0.000, d = 0.59), anterior deltoid (25 Hz: p = 0.032, d = 0.44; 40 Hz: p = 0.003, d = 0.64), and global activity (25 Hz: p = 0.000, d = 0.55; 40 Hz: p = 0.000, d = 0.83) compared to non-vibration condition. Moreover, OMNI-Res significant differences were found at 25 Hz (6.04 ± 0.32, p = 0.000 d = 4.03 CI = 3.27, 4.79) and 40 Hz (6.21 ± 0.36 p = 0.00 d = 4.29 CI = 3.49, 5.08) compared to the non-vibration condition (4.75 ± 0.32). Conclusion: Superimposing vibration is a feasible strategy to enhance the muscle activity of suspended push-ups.

Assessment of the Speed and Power of Push-Ups Performed on Surfaces with Different Degrees of Instability.

(I) Training in unstable conditions, with different elements, platforms, or situations, has been used because there is a significant increase in muscle activation, balance, proprioception, and even sports performance. However, it is not known how the devices used are classified according to performance variables, nor the differences according to instability experience. (II) This study aims to analyze the differences in power and speed in push-ups with different situations of instability in trained and untrained male subjects. Power and speed in push-up exercise were analyzed in 26 untrained and 25 trained participants in 6 different situations (one stable and five unstable) (1) stable (PS), (2) monopodal (PM), (3) rings (PR), (4) TRX® (PT), (5) hands-on Bosu® (PH) (6) feet on Bosu® (PF). The variables were analyzed using a linear position transducer. (III) The best data were evidenced with PS, followed by PR, PM, PT, PH and PF. The trained subjects obtained better results in all the conditions analyzed in mean and maximum power and speed values (p < 0.001). The decrease in these variables was significantly greater in the untrained subjects than in the trained subjects in the PR situation (8% and 18% respectively). In PF there were differences between groups (p < 0.001), reaching between 32-46% in all variables. The difference between the two groups was notable, varying between 12-58%. (IV) The results showed a negative and progressive influence of instability on power and speed in push-ups. This suggests that instability should be adapted to the subject's experience and is not advisable in untrained subjects who wish to improve power.

Improvement in the multiple sclerosis functional composite score by multi-function swing suspension training program.

BACKGROUND: Physical activity has been considered as a promising approach to slow down the disease process in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients. The functional impairments of MS have been studied in detail, while evidence of the efficacy of exercise training interventions on the Multiple Sclerosis functional composite (MSFC) score in these patients is limited. The aim of this study was to investigate the improvement in MSFC score by multi-function swing suspension training program (MFSST) in the women with MS. METHODS: The patients were divided into two groups as the intervention and control groups. A total of 47 MS patients completed the MSFC components at baseline and after the intervention: the timed 25-foot walk (T25FW); the 9-hole peg test (9HPT); and paced auditory serial addition test (PASAT). Z scores were created for each test based on control means. RESULTS: The MSFC score, 9HPT, T25FW, and PASAT showed a significant increment in comparison with the baseline levels in the four, six, and eight weeks following the first exercise session (all p<0.05). These differences in the control group were not significant. The improvement in the MSFC score and the component Z-scores in the intervention groups was found from the fourth week onwards. CONCLUSIONS: The study findings highlight that the progression of MS disability can be partially compensated by physical exercise. Overall, these results indicate that MFSST can be used as an effective treatment method in patients suffering from MS. Longer (years) exercise studies with larger samples of MS patients, with different MS subtypes, and of different sex, are needed to evaluate the effect of other types of exercise interventions on the MSFC score in MS patients with different disabilities.

[Scalp acupuncture combined with suspension training for balance dysfunction in patients with stroke: a randomized controlled trial].

OBJECTIVE: To explore the effect of scalp acupuncture combined with suspension training on balance ability and motor function in stroke patients with balance dysfunction. METHODS: A total of 105 stroke patients with balance dysfunction were randomly divided into a combined group (35 cases, 2 cases dropped off), a scalp acupuncture group (35 cases, 3 cases dropped off) and a suspension training group (35 cases, 2 cases dropped off). The scalp acupuncture group was treated with scalp acupuncture at bilateral suboccipital lateral line, parietal midline, upper 1/5 line of anterior oblique line of parietal and temporal and line 1 of the parietal lateral line on the opposite side of hemiplegia. The suspension training group was treated with suspension training. The combined group was treated with suspension training at the same time of scalp acupuncture. All the treatment was given once a day, 30 min each time, 5 days a week, for a total of 6 weeks. The Berg balance scale (BBS) score, balance tester and Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA) score were used to evaluate the motor function and balance ability before treatment, 3 and 6 weeks into treatment. The clinical efficacy was evaluated in the 3 groups. RESULTS: The scores of BBS and FMA in each group at 3 and 6 weeks into treatment were higher than those before treatment (P<0.05); the scores of BBS and FMA in the combined group were higher than those in the scalp acupuncture group and the suspension training group (P<0.05). At 3 and 6 weeks into treatment, the length and area of centroid locus of balance tester in each group were lower than those before treatment (P<0.05); the length and area of centroid locus of balance tester in the combined group were lower than those in the scalp acupuncture group and the suspension training group (P<0.05). The total effective rate of the combined group was 97.0% (32/33), which was higher than 87.5% (28/32) in the scalp acupuncture group and 90.9% (30/33) in the suspension training group (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Scalp acupuncture combined with suspension training could improve the balance ability and motor function in stroke patients with balance dysfunction, and the curative effect is better than simple scalp acupuncture and simple suspension training.

sEMG Activity in Superimposed Vibration on Suspended Supine Bridge and Hamstring Curl.

Traditionally in strength and conditioning environments, vibration has been transmitted using platforms, barbells, dumbbells, or cables but not suspension devices. This study aimed to examine the effects on the lower limb of applying superimposed vibration on a suspension device. Twenty-one physically active men and women performed supine bridge and hamstring curl exercises in three suspended conditions (non-vibration, vibration at 25 Hz, and vibration at 40 Hz). In each exercise condition, the perceived exertion scale for resistance exercise (OMNI-Res) was registered, and the electromyographic signal was assessed for gastrocnemius (medialis and lateralis), biceps femoris, semitendinosus, gluteus maximus, and rectus femoris. A linear mixed model indicated a significant fixed effect for vibration at 25 Hz and 40 Hz on muscle activity in suspended supine bridge (p < 0.05), but no effect for suspended hamstring curl (p > 0.05). Likewise, the Friedman test showed a significant main effect for vibration at 25 Hz and 40 Hz in suspended supine bridge (p < 0.05) but not for suspended hamstring curl (p > 0.05) on OMNI-Res. Post hoc analysis for suspended supine bridge with vibration at 25 Hz showed a significant activation increase in gastrocnemius lateralis (p = 0.008), gastrocnemius medialis (p = 0.000), semitendinosus (p = 0.003) activity, and for semitendinosus under 40 Hz condition (p = 0.001) compared to the non-vibration condition. Furthermore, OMNI-Res was significantly higher for the suspended supine bridge at 25 Hz (p = 0.003) and 40 Hz (p = 0.000) than for the non-vibration condition. Superimposed vibration at 25 Hz elicits a higher neuromuscular response during the suspended supine bridge, and the increase in vibration frequency also raises the OMNI-Res value.

Effects of Pilates training VS. Suspension training on quality of life in women with knee osteoarthritis: A randomized controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: Osteoarthritis is the most common synovial joint disease and is characterized by progressive destruction of the articular cartilage. This study aimed to compare the effect of Pilates and suspension training in patients with knee Osteoarthritis. METHODS: The participants in this randomized trial study were patients with knee Osteoarthritis. In this study, 30 females (61.40 ± 4.85 years) were divided into three groups of suspension training, Pilates, and control group. Participants were randomly assigned to 8-week (3x/week, 1 h/session) Pilates and suspension training program groups. The static and dynamic balance, range of motion, and knee function were respectively measured by The Stork stand balance test, Y balance test, Goniometers, and The WOMAC performance disability questionnaire. To analyze the findings, a dependent sample t-test, covariance test, and Bonferroni's post hoc test were used (P ≤ 0.05). RESULTS: Dynamic and static balance in the suspension training and Pilates training caused a significant increase (P ≤ 0.05) compared to the control group. Also, the range of motion and motor performance in the suspension training and Pilates training showed a significant decrease (P ≤ 0.05) compared to the control group. The suspension training compared to the Pilates training was more effective on dynamic and static balance (P ≤ 0.05). Also, the suspension training compared to the Pilates training had more effect on Range of motion and Motor performance (P ≤ 0.05). CONCLUSION: It seems that Pilates and suspension training can be used in medical centers as a complementary rehabilitation method among female patients with knee Osteoarthritis to improve the dynamic and static balance, range of motion, and performance.

Hip-Focused Neuromuscular Exercise Provides Immediate Benefits in Foot Pronation and Dynamic Balance: A Sham-Controlled Cross-Over Study.

CONTEXT: Knowledge on how to utilize a kinetic chain approach in foot and ankle rehabilitation is important. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the immediate effects of hip-focused neuromuscular exercise on foot pronation and single-leg neuromuscular control. DESIGN: Cross-over study. SETTING: University laboratory. PARTICIPANTS: This cross-over study included 44 asymptomatic volunteers with foot pronation. INTERVENTIONS: All participants performed (1) a hip-focused neuromuscular exercise and (2) a sham exercise in randomized order. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Foot pronation was assessed by the navicular drop test, and lower-extremity neuromuscular control was assessed by the Modified Star Excursion Balance Test and frontal plane projection angle during single-leg squat before and after the experiments. RESULTS: Navicular drop test scores were significantly lower after the hip-focused neuromuscular exercise than after the sham exercise (mean difference [95% CI] = 2.84 [-1.08 to 6.77], P = .003). Modified Star Excursion Balance Test scores in the anterior (P = .008), posteromedial (P = .04), and posterolateral (P < .001) directions were significantly increased after hip-focused neuromuscular exercise. No statistically significant condition × time interaction was found for the frontal plane projection angle (P > .05). However, a main effect of time (P = .003) indicated that less dynamic knee valgus occurred during single-leg squat after both experiments. CONCLUSIONS: Hip-focused neuromuscular exercise produced immediate alterations in foot pronation and dynamic balance. Thus, the hip-focused neuromuscular exercise may be used to control foot posture in foot rehabilitation integrated with a kinetic chain approach and could be an effective prevention and treatment strategy.

Effect of suspension training on neuromuscular function, postural control, and knee kinematics in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction patients.

BACKGROUND: Suspension training (SET) is a method of neuromuscular training that enables the body to carry out active training under unstable support through a suspension therapy system. However, there have been few reports in the literature on the application of SET to anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) patients. It is not clear what aspects of the patient's function are improved after SET. AIM: To investigate the effect of SET on the neuromuscular function, postural control, and knee kinematics of patients after ACLR surgery. METHODS: Forty participants were randomized to an SET group or a control group. The SET group subjects participated in a SET protocol over 6 wk. The control group subjects participated in a traditional training protocol over 6 wk. Isokinetic muscle strength of the quadriceps and hamstrings, static and dynamic posture stability test, and relative translation of the injured knee were assessed before and after training. RESULTS: The relative peak torque of the quadriceps and hamstrings in both groups increased significantly (P < 0.001), and the SET group increased by a higher percentage than those in the control group (quadriceps: P = 0.004; hamstrings: P = 0.011). After training, both groups showed significant improvements in static and dynamic posture stability (P < 0.01), and the SET group had a greater change than the control group (P < 0.05). No significant improvement on the relative translation of the injured knee was observed after training in either group (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Our findings show that SET promotes great responses in quadriceps and hamstring muscle strength and balance function in ACLR patients.

Effects on Strength, Power and Speed Execution Using Exercise Balls, Semi-Sphere Balance Balls and Suspension Training Devices: A Systematic Review.

Research in instability has focused on the analysis of muscle activation. The aim of this systematic review was to analyse the effects of unstable devices on speed, strength and muscle power measurements administered in the form of controlled trials to healthy individuals in adulthood. A computerized systematic literature search was performed through electronic databases. According to the criteria for preparing systematic reviews PRISMA, nine studies met the inclusion criteria. The quality of the selected studies was evaluated using STROBE. The average score was 14.3 points, and the highest scores were located in 'Introduction' (100%) and 'Discussion' (80%). There is great heterogeneity in terms of performance variables. However, instability seems to affect these variables negatively. The strength variable was affected to a greater degree, but with intensities near to the 1RM, no differences are observed. As for power, a greater number of repetitions seems to benefit the production of this variable in instability in the upper limb. Instability, in comparison to a stable condition, decreases the parameters of strength, power, and muscular speed in adults. The differences shown are quite significant in most situations although slight decreases can be seen in certain situations.

Scalp acupuncture combined with suspension training for balance dysfunction in patients with stroke: a randomized controlled trial / 中国针灸

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the effect of scalp acupuncture combined with suspension training on balance ability and motor function in stroke patients with balance dysfunction.@*METHODS@#A total of 105 stroke patients with balance dysfunction were randomly divided into a combined group (35 cases, 2 cases dropped off), a scalp acupuncture group (35 cases, 3 cases dropped off) and a suspension training group (35 cases, 2 cases dropped off). The scalp acupuncture group was treated with scalp acupuncture at bilateral suboccipital lateral line, parietal midline, upper 1/5 line of anterior oblique line of parietal and temporal and line 1 of the parietal lateral line on the opposite side of hemiplegia. The suspension training group was treated with suspension training. The combined group was treated with suspension training at the same time of scalp acupuncture. All the treatment was given once a day, 30 min each time, 5 days a week, for a total of 6 weeks. The Berg balance scale (BBS) score, balance tester and Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA) score were used to evaluate the motor function and balance ability before treatment, 3 and 6 weeks into treatment. The clinical efficacy was evaluated in the 3 groups.@*RESULTS@#The scores of BBS and FMA in each group at 3 and 6 weeks into treatment were higher than those before treatment (@*CONCLUSION@#Scalp acupuncture combined with suspension training could improve the balance ability and motor function in stroke patients with balance dysfunction, and the curative effect is better than simple scalp acupuncture and simple suspension training.

The Effect of Total Body Resistance Exercise on Mobility, Proprioception, and Muscle Strength of the Knee in People With Multiple Sclerosis.

CONTEXT: Muscle weakness and sensory deficits cause impaired balance and walking abilities that are prerequisites for independent activity of daily living in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Recent physical exercises tailored to improve the activity of daily living people with MS have focused on the functional training. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of total body resistance exercise suspension training on mobility, proprioception, and muscle strength of the knee in people with MS. DESIGN: Single-blind pretest and posttest control group design. SETTING: Referral Center of Multiple Sclerosis Society. PARTICIPANTS: Thirty-four women with relapsing-remitting MS were participated in this study. The mean (SD) of their age was 36.44 (4.88) years, and the Expanded Disability Status Scale was 2.35 (0.94). The participants were divided into 2 groups: control group (n = 15) and training group (n = 19). INTERVENTION: The training group performed the total body resistance exercise program for 8 weeks, 3 sessions per week. The control group received their usual care and daily activities. Outcomes were measured presessions and postsessions. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Mobility was assessed with Timed Up and Go test, 10-m walk maximum test, 2 minute walk test, and 5-time sit-to-stand test. Knee proprioception absolute error and isometric strength of knee flexor and extensor muscles were measured by using a biodex isokinetic dynamometer. RESULTS: In the training group, mobility (P = .001), maximal voluntary isometric contraction of knee flexor and extensor muscles in both legs (P > .05), and the knee proprioception absolute error in nondominant leg at 60° knee flexion (P = .02) improved significantly compared with the control group. CONCLUSION: Total body resistance exercise is a functional and safe intervention that can improve the mobility and muscles strength of the knee in a short period in people with MS.

Correlational data concerning body centre of mass acceleration, muscle activity, and forces exerted during a suspended lunge under different stability conditions in high-standard track and field athletes.

This article reports data concerning the body centre of mass acceleration, muscle activity, and forces exerted during a suspended lunge under different stability conditions. Ten high-standard track and field athletes were recruited to perform one set of 5 repetitions of the following exercises: suspended lunge, suspended lunge-Foam (front leg on a foam balance-pad and the rear leg on the suspension cradles), a suspended lunge-BOSU up (dome side up), and a suspended lunge-BOSU down (dome side down). For each exercise trial, the acceleration of the body centre of mass (tri-axial accelerometer BIOPAC), the muscle activity of the front leg (surface electromyography BIOPAC) and the force exerted on the suspension strap (load cell Phidgets) were measured. The data revealed that the intra-reliability of the data range from good (ICC: 0.821) to excellent (ICC: 0.970) in all dependent variables and exercise conditions. Besides, the Pearson correlation between muscle activity and the body centre of mass acceleration showed a significant positive correlation for all the exercises and analysed muscles (range from r = 0.393 to r = 0.826; p < 0.05) with moderate to very large effect, except for the rectus and biceps femoris. Moreover, the force exerted on the suspension strap significantly correlated with the body centre of mass acceleration in all the exercises (range from r = -0.595 to r = -0.797, p < 0.05) with a very large effect, except for the suspension lunge that registered a large effect.

ELECTROMYOGRAPHY OF THE HIP AND THIGH MUSCLES DURING TWO VARIATIONS OF THE LUNGE EXERCISE: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

BACKGROUND: The lunge is a closed kinetic chain exercise that athletes frequently use as part of training and rehabilitative programs. While typically performed on a stable surface, modifications include the use of balance platforms to create an unstable surface and suspension equipment. Suspension training exercises are theorized to be higher demand exercises and may be considered a progression from exercises on stable surfaces. Comparison of muscle recruitment between the suspended lunge and the standard lunge has not been reported. HYPOTHESIS AND PURPOSE: The purpose was to compare differences in muscle recruitment between a standard lunge and a suspended lunge. We hypothesized that hip and thigh muscle recruitment with a suspended lunge would be greater than a standard lunge due to less inherent support with the suspended lunge exercise. STUDY DESIGN: Analytic, observational cross-sectional study design. METHODS: Thirty healthy participants (15 male and 15 female) voluntarily participated in this study. Electromyographic (EMG) muscle recruitment was measured in five hip and thigh muscles while performing a standard and suspended lunge. EMG was expressed as a percentage of EMG with a maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC). RESULTS: Recruitment was significantly greater in the suspended lunge condition compared to the standard lunge for the hamstrings (p < .001), gluteus medius (p < .001), gluteus maximus (p<.001), and adductor longus (p < .001). There was no significant difference in rectus femoris recruitment between conditions (p = .154). CONCLUSION: Based on EMG findings, the suspended lunge is a more demanding exercise for hip muscles, compared to the standard lunge. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 3 Mechanism-based reasoning intervention study trial. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The results of this study can assist clinicians in designing and progressing lower extremity exercise programs. With greater muscle recruitment, the suspended lunge is a more demanding exercise for hip muscles and can be considered a progression of the standard lunge as part of an exercise program. WHAT IS KNOWN ABOUT THE SUBJECT?: Muscle recruitment associated with the lunge exercise, variations of the lunge, and similar exercises has been reported. The use of suspension training exercise equipment has been reported for upper extremity exercises however not for the lower extremity. WHAT DOES THIS STUDY ADD TO EXISTING KNOWLEDGE?: Results of this study provide novel EMG information related to the lunge exercise using suspension training exercise equipment. Clinicians can use this information designing lower extremity exercise programs.

Effects of Multi-point Multi-axis Suspension Training on Nonspecific Low Back Pain: A Surface Electromyography Study / 中国康复理论与实践

@#Objective To study the effect of multi-point multi-axis suspension training on nonspecific low back pain (NLBP) through surface electromyography (sEMG). Methods From October, 2016 to November, 2017, 24 patients with unilateral NLBP (NLBP group) were randomly divided into dynamic group (n=12) and static group (n=12); other 12 healthy volunteers were selected as control group. NLBP group was trained on multi-point multi-axis suspension training system, the dynamic group accepted pelvic-up training in the supine position, while the static group accepted lumbar neutral keep training, for ten days. NLBP group was measured with average electromyographic values (AEMG) of affected musculi multifidi before and after treatment, and assessed with Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) of pain; while the control group was measured AEMG of unilateral musculi multifidi. Results The AEMG in static and pelvic-up positions was more in NLBP group than in the control group before treatment (t>3.209, P<0.01), and it was less when keeping neutral position (t=-2.364, P<0.05). The AEMG improved in NLBP groups after treatment (t>2.982, P<0.01). The AEMG in static position and in keeping neutral position was not significantly different among the three groups after treatment (F<2.921, P>0.05), and it was the most in the dynamic group as pelvic-up (P<0.001). The score of VAS decreased in both NLBP groups after treatment (t>10.416, P<0.001), and it was less in the static group than in the dynamic group (t=-4.389, P<0.001).Conclusion sEMG changes take place in patients with NLBP. Multi-point multi-axis suspension training is effective through improving the core muscle group, and it is more effective in static maintenance training.