Ankle Flexibility Research Articles

Effects of Fatigue on Ankle Flexor Activity and Ground Reaction Forces in Elite Table Tennis Players.

Fatigue specifically affects the force production capacity of the working muscle, leading to a decline in athletes' performance. This study investigated the impact of fatigue on ankle flexor muscle activity and ground reaction forces (GRFs) in elite table tennis players, with a focus on the implications for performance and injury risk. Twelve elite male table tennis athletes participated in this study, undergoing a fatigue protocol that simulated intense gameplay conditions. Muscle activity of the soleus (SOL) and gastrocnemius lateralis (GL) muscles, heel height, and GRFs were measured using a combination of wireless electromyography (EMG), motion capture, and force plate systems. Results showed a significant decrease in muscle activity in both legs post-fatigue, with a more pronounced decline in the right leg. This decrease in muscle activity negatively affected ankle joint flexibility, limiting heel lift-off. Interestingly, the maximal anteroposterior GRF generated by the left leg increased in the post-fatigue phase, suggesting the use of compensatory strategies to maintain balance and performance. These findings underscore the importance of managing fatigue, addressing muscle imbalances, and improving ankle flexibility and strength to optimize performance and reduce the risk of injuries.

Acute effects of the short-foot exercise in runners with medial tibial stress syndrome: A quasi-experimental study

ObjectivesAnalyze whether there are immediate changes in peak soleus activation and peak hindfoot eversion after short-foot exercise (SFE) in runners with medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS). Secondarily, establish differences in peak soleus activation and peak hindfoot eversion between asymptomatic individuals and those presenting MTSS. DesignQuasi-experimental study. SettingUniversity Laboratory. ParticipantsThirty-two runners participated: 16 with MTSS and 16 in the no-pain group (NPG). Main outcome measuresSoleus activation was measured using electromyography, and hindfoot eversion via 3D kinematic analysis. Participants performed SFE, and running data were collected at 9,12 and 15 km/h pre- and post-intervention. ResultsSFE reduced peak soleus activation at 9 (p = 0.017) and 15 km/h (p = 0.019) for the MTSS group and at 15 km/h (p < 0.001) for the NPG, suggesting improved neuromuscular efficiency and potentially reduced tibial stress. SFE did not significantly affect peak hindfoot eversion. Significant correlations were found between ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and muscle activation (r = 0.585 to 0.849, p < 0.05). These findings suggest SFE could improve neuromuscular efficiency and reduce tibial stress, and highlights ankle flexibility's role in muscle activation. ConclusionsSFE significantly reduces soleus activation, potentially improving neuromuscular efficiency and decreasing tibial stress.

Research on the difference in plantar biomechanics among dance majors

Dance majors’ plantar biomechanics studies the functional and structural dynamics of their feet as they perform different dance moves and techniques. The primary objective is to comprehend which distinct dancing styles and approaches affect plantar biomechanics to possibly identify risk factors for injuries and guide dancers on how to prevent them. Dancing requires precise body alignment and movement, which leads to certain foot biomechanical variations that are vital for preventing injuries and improving performance. Distinct plantar biomechanics within dance majors (ballet and jazz) are examined to identify novel biomechanical factors. One hundred and fifty all fifty jazz dancers, fifty ballet dancers, and fifty non-dancers participated in the study. A 3D foot scanner and pressure measuring system are utilized for assessing variables such as arch elevation (AE), plantar pressure dispersion (PPD), and foot position (FP). Additionally, tests of gait ability using distinct foot biomechanics are carried out in various dance-related motions. For comparative assessment of such dancer groups, statistical techniques like Anova and Kruskal-wallis tests are used. Types of dance show different PPD formations, with jazz dancers including maximum midfoot pressure (MFP) and ballet dancers including maximum forefoot pressure (FFP), and both dancer groups have stronger ankle flexibility and toe flexion. Future research needs to assess the consequences of training plans and long-term modifications to gain an improved comprehension of how the biomechanically unique feet of dance majors necessitate targeted interventions for injury prevention and performance improvement.

Correlation of Dance Functional Status with Lower Limb Flexibility, Power and Dynamic Balance in Recreational Ballet Dancers – A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Paediatric ballet dancers are particularly prone to injuries due to the demanding nature of their art form, exacerbated by intensive training during crucial growth and maturation phases. The prevalence of injuries, especially those affecting lower limbs, hampers dancers’ functional capacity. Unlike their professional counterparts, recreational ballet dancers lack specialized training, heightening their vulnerability. The accumulation of repetitive injuries often hampers their ability to attain the highest levels of achievement in their careers, underscoring the necessity to identify and comprehend contributing factors. The aim is to fnd a correlation between the Dance Functional Outcome Survey (DFOS) and critical factors like lower limb flexibility, power, and dynamic balance among recreational ballet dancers. Methodology: 53 recreational ballet dancers aged 10–18 years with at least one year of dance experience were included. Lower limb flexibility was assessed using the sit and reach test, ankle flexibility, and straddle in supine tests, while power and dynamic balance were evaluated through vertical jump tests and Y balance tests. The DFOS questionnaire measured health status. Result: Results revealed statistically significant weak positive correlations between DFOS and various factors: sit and reach test (r=0.3060), ankle flexibility (r=0.3830), straddle in supine (r=0.3270), vertical jump test (r=0.3250), and Y balance composite (Right: r=0.3200; Left: r=0.3420). Conclusion: This study concludes that recreational ballet dancers with greater flexibility, power, and dynamic balance in the lower limb tend to exhibit a higher dance functional status. Keywords: paediatric, ballet dancers, flexibility, power, dynamic balance, Dance Functional Outcome Survey.

Is There a Relationship between Low Back, Hamstring, and Ankle Flexibility with Rowing Performance in Elite Rowers?

The study aimed to evaluate the relationship between low back, hamstring, and ankle flexibility with rowing performance. The study included 26 male rowers (mean age: 16.72±0.73 years). All participants were assessed regarding the flexibility of the low back, hamstring, ankle, and rowing performance by sit and reach (Baltaci et al., 2003), weight-bearing lunge (Powden et al., 2015)., and 2000-m rowing ergometer performance time tests (Mikulić et al., 2009), respectively. No correlation was found between sit and reach and 2000-m rowing ergometer performance time test results. However, a negative correlation was found between ankle flexibility and 2000-m rowing ergometer performance time test results (r= -0.39; p &amp;lt;0.05). Additionally, 2000-m rowing ergometer performance time test result was negatively correlated with anthropometric variables and the training frequency of rowers in a week. The stepwise multiple regression analysis results indicated that only training frequency had a significant impact on the outcome variable. Conversely, weight, height, and ankle flexibility were insignificant predictors in the analysis (R2 = .492; R = .39, p&amp;lt;0.05). The training frequency plays a crucial role in influencing the outcome variable. Other factors, such as weight, height, and ankle flexibility, did not demonstrate significant associations. However, it is essential to note that the regression model only takes into account a medium level of variance. Future studies may examine the potential impact of other risk factors.

Development, validation, and psychometric analysis of Foot and Ankle Flexibility Index (FAFI)

AimTo develop a new tool for identifying joint hypermobility of the paediatric foot and ankle, based on a dichotomous scoring system utilising the Lower Limb Assessment Score (LLAS), to separate the foot and ankle items. Material and methodsA total of 205 children, aged between 5 and 10 years, participated in a cross-sectional study. The new tool Foot and Ankle Flexibility Index (FAFI) was predicated upon the last 7 items of LLAS, which are specific to the foot and ankle. The internal consistency was measured with Cronbach's test. Kappa statistics with 95% CI were calculated to verify the level of inter-rater and intra-rater agreement for the FAFI. ResultsCronbach's alpha returned 0.82. The correlations between items returned a mean of 0.59 (range: 0.43–0.74). The discrimination score on the ROC curve (4 points) showed that the model can be used to identify children with joint hypermobility of the foot and ankle. Inter-rater reliability was largely good (ICC = 0.89). Excellent intra-rater reliability was found (ICC = 0.96) ConclusionsThis study identified high reliability between evaluators, and high sensitivity and specificity, for a new reliable and valid tool for the identification of foot and ankle joint hypermobility.

Self-rated flexibility significantly reflects the hip flexibility, but not the ankle flexibility

BACKGROUND: Many studies have reported that exercise increases physical flexibility; however, no study has verified whether patients perceive an increase in physical flexibility after exercise. OBJECTIVE: This study investigates the correlations between increased duration of exercise and the self-rated flexibility (SRF) and those between the SRF and quantitative flexibility. Variations in the SRF between males and females were also investigated. METHODS: The SRF of the hip (S-Hip) and ankle (S-Ankle) were rated by participants who completed a questionnaire. The range of motion of the hip (M-Hip) and ankle (M-Ankle) were measured using the straight leg raise test and dorsiflexion, respectively. RESULTS: No significant correlation between exercise duration and S-Hip and S-Ankle were identified. S-Hip and S-Ankle (p&lt; 0.001) and S-Hip and M-Hip (p&lt; 0.001) were significantly correlated, though S-Ankle and M-Ankle were not (p= 0.660). The exercise duration, S-Hip, and S-Ankle were not significantly different between males and females. CONCLUSIONS: Given the significant correlation between hip flexibility and SRF and no gender effect, SRF may serve as a useful clinical indicator.

Effect of PNF stretching performed in the AKE position on hip, knee, and ankle flexibility.

To measure hamstring flexibility, the active knee extension (AKE) test is preferred over the straight leg raise (SLR) test as it can be used to measure hamstring flexibility more selectively. However, hamstring stretching is primarily conducted in the SLR position (maximal hip flexion in the supine position) as it allows for maximal hip flexion in the supine position. This study evaluates the effects of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching in the AKE position (maximal knee extension with 90∘ flexion of the hip in the supine position) on hip, knee, and ankle flexibility. SLR, AKE, and active dorsiflexion (ADF) tests were used to determine the range of motion (ROM) before (pre-ROM) and after (post-ROM) stretching. PNF stretching consisted of maximal isometric knee flexion at the end range with external resistance to prevent knee flexion. One set of PNF stretches (five trials of six seconds each) was conducted. The post-ROMs of hip, knee, and ankle measured via the SLR, AKE, and ADF tests, respectively, were significantly higher than the pre-ROMs. The improvement in knee flexibility was greater than the improvement in hip and ankle flexibility. The AKE position is recommended in clinical settings during PNF stretching for individuals with hamstring tightness. Furthermore, PNF stretching in the AKE position increases the ADF ROM.

Efeito agudo da cinesioterapia e da eletroestimulação neuromotora sobre a variação térmica de indivíduos com insuficiência venosa crônica

Abstract Introduction: Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a change in the venous system that can be caused by dysfunction in the triceps surae muscles. Objective: To evaluate the acute effect of neuromuscular electrical stimulation and kinesio-therapy on ankle joint flexibility, infrared radiation and triceps surae strength in individuals with CVI. Methods: We conducted a comparative study, in which ankle flexibility, dorsiflexion and plantar flexion strength and thermal variations of the calf were evaluated. An electrical stimulation session (1 kHz Aussie current with burst = 2 ms) was performed on the right lower limb (EG - electrostimulation group) and kinesio-therapy on the lower limb left (KG - kinesiotherapy group), with stretching and metabolic exercises involving the ankle. Results: Nineteen female patients were evaluated. Analysis of ankle flexibility did not demonstrate significant changes. In the assessment of muscle strength, there was no difference between groups, and in the intragroup assessment, only KG showed an increase for dorsiflexion (before treatment: 11.6 ± 3.5; 24 h after: 13.5 ± 3.0; p = 0.02), and for plantar flexion (before: 11.8 ± 6.3; 24 h later: 14.4 ± 5.06; p = 0.04). Regarding thermography, there was no intragroup difference, while in the intergroup assessment, KG showed an increase in temperature immediately and 24 h later (0.44 ± 0.68, p = 0.01 and 0.25 ± 0.83, p = 0.07, respectively). When analyzing the correlation between dorsiflexion and plantar flexion strength of both lower limbs with total range of motion of the right and left ankle, a positive correlation was observed only between the plantar flexion strength immediately after and 24 h later with range of motion and ankle in KG (r = 0.49, p = 0.03 and r = 0.51, p = 0.03, respectively). Conclusion: There were no significant differences between kinesiotherapy and electrotherapy when analyzing joint flexibility and muscle strength, but kinesiotherapy was superior in increasing calf temperature before and after 24 h of intervention.

A Study Protocol to Investigate the Influence of Shoe Collar Height on Coordination and Plantar Pressure Distribution during Locomotion in Young Adults

Introduction: Higher collar heights are often associated with increased ankle support and stability while lower collar heights may allow for greater ankle flexibility. The design of footwear, particularly the height of the collar, plays a crucial role in influencing how individuals move and distribute pressure on their feet during various activities. Aim: To investigate how high-cut, low-cut and mid-cut shoes affects coordination and plantar pressure distribution during walking in young adults. Materials and Methods: Ninety-five healthy college-going students aged between 18-25 years wearing casual shoes for atleast six hours a day for 5 days a week for more than 6 months will be recruited through convenience sampling method. Participants shall be grouped based on the design and cut height of their shoes into high-cut, low-cut and mid-cut categories. Coordination tests under barefoot and shod conditions will be used to assess coordination. Plantar pressure in barefoot condition for different foot regions will be determined through Harris mat and Podia Scan® software. Results: Kolmogorov-Smirnov test will be used to determine normality (n&gt;50). Parametric (Paired t-test) or non-parametric test (Wilcoxon-Signed Rank Test) will be used for within-group analysis. For between-group analysis, parametric (One-way ANOVA) or nonparametric test (Kruskal-Wallis H test) will be used. Conclusion: Understanding the relationship between shoe collar height and lower extremity coordination as well as foot pressure distribution is crucial for designing footwear that optimises performance, minimises injury risk, and enhances overall movement efficiency across various physical activities

Footwear Design and Biomechanics Evaluation for Clinical Nurses

Epidemiological investigations have shown a higher prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders, (WRMDs) among nursing professionals. More than most other occupational groups. Most nursing activities require long periods of standing and walking. These job requirements can cause WRMDs problems in the lower limbs, and there are few footwear products available specifically for use by clinical nurses. Therefore, improving the current clinical nurse shoes and improving the wearing comfort of clinical nurse shoes are the necessary conditions to reduce the lower limb discomfort of clinical nurses. The purpose of this study is :(1) to test and obtain the foot morphology and walking gait characteristics of nurses in standing state by using human foot scanning and sports biomechanics technology, and to design comfortable clinical nursing footwear products suitable for nurses through shoe last optimization and application of environmentally friendly materials. (2) Sports biomechanical testing technology was used to test and compare the developed clinical care shoes with other shoes in the market, and the biomechanical characteristics of participants wearing different shoes were measured and compared to verify the design effect of clinical care shoes and improve it. This research method is divided into three stages. First, field observations and exercise biomechanics tests of the participants were performed, and data acquisition included plantar pressure characteristics, a three-dimensional foot model, foot surface temperature distribution, walking speed, and proportions of walking, standing, and sitting. Secondly, the clinical nursing shoes were designed based on the test results and the sample shoes were made. Finally, the function of professional nursing was evaluated through the exercise biomechanical testing technique. Measurements included lower limb joint range of motion (ROM), foot Pressure, ground reaction force (GRF), and subjective discomfort ratings for the lower body and feet. To summarize the findings of this study, comfortable clinical care shoes should emphasize arch support at the sole, use three-dimensional vertical insoles, and design heel height below 5 cm to significantly reduce plantar pressure distribution and ground impact, increase ankle flexibility, and recommend the use of pressure socks to reduce the risk of varicose veins in the lower extremities.

Countermovement Jump Performance Is Related to Ankle Flexibility and Knee Extensors Torque in Female Adolescent Volleyball Athletes.

Ankle flexibility and isokinetic knee torque/power generating capacity were previously suggested to contribute or to be correlated to the vertical countermovement jump (CMJ) performance. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the passive ankle joint dorsi flexion (θPDF) and the knee muscle's isokinetic torque and power on the CMJ in adolescent female volleyball players. The θPDF at a knee extension angle of 140 degrees were measured for 37 female post-pubertal volleyball players. Then, the players were assigned to either the flexible (n = 10) or inflexible (n = 14) groups according to earlier recommended criteria. Testing included the CMJ with and without an arm swing, and maximal knee extensions and flexions in 3 angular velocities on an isokinetic dynamometer. CMJ height performed with or without an arm swing (r(22) = 0.563, p = 0.040 and r(22) = 0.518, p = 0.009, respectively) and relative power (r(22) = 0.517, p = 0.010 and r(22) = 0.446, p = 0.030, respectively) were positively correlated with the extensors' torque at 180°/s and were negatively correlated with the flexibility level of the dominant side ankle (r(22) = -0.529, p = 0.008 and r(22) = -0.576, p = 0.030, respectively). A moderate positive correlation was also revealed between the CMJ height with and without an arm swing and the power of the non-dominant knee extensors (r(22) = 0.458, p = 0.024 and r(22) = 0.402, p = 0.049, respectively) and flexors (r(22) = 0.484, p = 0.016 and r(22) = 0.477, p = 0.018, respectively). Results of the 2 × 2 repeated ANOVA measurements revealed that flexible players jumped significantly (p < 0.05) higher during the CMJs, whilst there was a group effect only on the isokinetic knee extensor muscles' torque. In conclusion, a more flexible ankle joint and a higher isokinetic knee extensor's torque generating capacity resulted in higher CMJ performance. Therefore, ankle flexibility should be emphasized in training and is suggested to be included in preseason screening tests of youth female volleyball players.

The Effects of a 12-Week-Long Sand Exercise Training Program on Neuromechanical and Functional Parameters in Type II Diabetic Patients with Neuropathy.

Studies have proven the effectiveness of different weight-bearing exercise interventions for diabetic patients with neuropathy; however, several adverse effects were reported using solid surfaces. Thus, in the present study, we investigated the effects of a novel sand exercise training intervention on biomechanical and functional parameters in seven diabetic patients (age = 62.7 ± 9.7 years) with neuropathy. Patients underwent a 12-week sand exercise training program, using strengthening, stretching, balance, and gait exercises. They were tested for ankle plantar- and dorsiflexion peak torque, active range of motion (ROM), timed up and go (TUG), and bilateral static balance. EMG activity of tibialis anterior (TA), gastrocnemius medialis (GM), and lateralis (GL) muscles were measured during unilateral isometric contraction in plantar- and dorsiflexion. In the intervention period, plantarflexion peak torque improved significantly (p = 0.033), while dorsiflexion torque remained unchanged. Plantar- and dorsiflexion ROM increased (p = 0.032) and (p = 0.021), respectively. EMG activity of GM (p = 0.005) and GL (p = 0.002) measured during dorsiflexion and postural sway in the balance test, as well as time to complete the TUG test, decreased significantly (p = 0.021) and (p = 0.002), respectively. No adverse effect was reported during the intervention period. We concluded that sand exercise training can be a safe and effective method to improve plantarflexion strength, ankle flexibility, and balance, which is reflected in better gait function in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN).

Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization Technique versus Static Stretching in Patients with Pronated Dominant Foot: A Comparison in Effectiveness on Flexibility, Foot Posture, Foot Function Index, and Dynamic Balance

Pronated foot is a deformity with various degrees of physical impact. Patients with a pronated foot experience issues such as foot pain, ankle pain, heel pain, shin splints, impaired balance, plantar fasciitis, etc. Objective: The study intended to compare the effectiveness of IASTM (instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization) and static stretching on ankle flexibility, foot posture, foot function, and balance in patients with a flexible pronated foot. Seventy-two participants between the ages of 18-25 years with a flexible pronated foot were included and allocated into three groups: Control, stretching, and IASTM group using single-blinded randomization. Range of motion (ROM) measuring ankle flexibility, foot posture index (FPI), foot function index (FFI), and dynamic balance was measured at baseline and after 4 weeks of intervention. Soft tissue mobilization was applied on to the IASTM group, while the stretching group was directed in static stretching of the gastrocnemius-soleus complex, tibialis anterior, and Achilles tendon in addition to the foot exercises. The control group received only foot exercises for 4 weeks. The result shows the significant improvement of the right dominant foot in ROM plantar flexion, (F = 3.94, p = 0.03), dorsiflexion (F = 3.15, p = 0.05), inversion (F = 8.54, p = 0.001) and eversion (F = 5.93, p = 0.005), FFI (control vs. IASTM, mean difference (MD) = 5.9, p < 0.001), FPI (right foot, control vs. IASTM MD = 0.88, p = 0.004), and in dynamic balance of the right-leg stance (anterior, pre vs. post = 88.55 ± 2.28 vs. 94.65 ± 2.28; anteromedial, pre vs. post = 80.65 ± 2.3 vs. 85.55 ± 2.93; posterior, pre vs. post = 83 ± 3.52 vs. 87 ± 2.99 and lateral, pre vs. post = 73.2 ± 5.02 vs. 78.05 ± 4.29) in the IASTM group. The FFI was increased remarkably in the stretching group as compared to the control group. Myofascial release technique, i.e., IASTM with foot exercises, significantly improves flexibility, foot posture, foot function, and dynamic balance as compared to stretching, making it a choice of treatment for patients with a flexible pronated foot.

Impaired flexibility in patients with tropical spastic paraparesis/HTLV-associated myelopathy: evaluation via pendulum fleximeter

Flexibility is crucial to the harmonious execution of joint movements. While skeletal muscle dysfunction in patients with HTLV-1 can interfere with mobility, it is unclear whether these patients experience reduced flexibility. To evaluate the differences in flexibility between HTLV-1-infected individuals with and without myelopathy compared with uninfected controls. We also investigated whether age, sex, body mass index (BMI), physical activity level, or lower back pain influence flexibility in HTLV-1-infected individuals. The sample consisted of 56 adults, of which 15 did not have HTLV-1, 15 had HTLV-1 without myelopathy, and 26 had TSP/HAM. Their flexibility was assessed using the sit-and-reach test and a pendulum fleximeter. No differences in flexibility were observed between the groups with and without myelopathy and controls without HTLV-1 infection using the sit-and-reach test. The pendulum fleximeter results of individuals with TSP/HAM presented the lowest flexibility among the groups with respect to trunk flexion, hip flexion and extension, knee flexion, and ankle dorsiflexion, even after adjusting for age, sex, BMI, level of physical activity, and lower back pain using multiple linear regression models. Additionally, HTLV-1-infected individuals without myelopathy demonstrated reduced flexibility in movements: knee flexion, dorsiflexion, and ankle plantar flexion. Individuals with TSP/HAM demonstrated reduced flexibility in most of the movements evaluated by the pendulum fleximeter. Additionally, HTLV-1-infected individuals without myelopathy demonstrated reduced knee and ankle flexibility, potentially representing a marker of myelopathic development.

EFFECT OF THERAGUN ON CALF MUSCLE TIGHTNESS IN ASYMPTOMATIC INDIVIDUALS

Muscle tightness is commonly regarded as a risk factor for muscle damage. Calf muscle tightness has been connected to decreased ankle dorsiflexion as well as a range of ailments, including Shin splints, Achilles tendinitis, and plantar fasciitis, to name a few. Theragun is a mechanical device that is gaining steam due to its efficiency and positive benefits. Deep tissue therapy for example, of both fascia and muscle is defined by PT, which is based on the principles for the treatment of fascial connective tissues, they provide enhanced blood flow, better scar tissue, reduced pain, lower lactate, greater range of motion, and improved recovery. Given their possible influence on the tonic vibration reflex, it appears that the use of percussion instruments may support other forms of treatments. Subjects with Calf Tightness (n = 90) will be included in a single-blind RCT. The treatment will be given on the commanding foot, with 3 sittings for five minutes each. Ankle flexibility tests and Range of motion will be used to evaluate the efficacy of the technique when sessions are finished. The intent of this Research is to determine the advantages of percussion treatment in those who have calf tightness. The study's findings, which might include a novel rehabilitation approach, could help individuals with gastrocnemius muscle stiffness. Conclusion will be drawn based on the effect of the techniques on Range of Motion, Calf tightness in the asymptomatic individuals

Acute Effects of Soleus Stretching on Ankle Flexibility, Dynamic Balance and Speed Performances in Soccer Players.

Simple SummaryCalf muscles, including the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles, are very important for soccer players, but the benefits of soleus stretching are rarely reported. Both regular and soleus stretching conditions lead to better ankle range of motion, maximum plantarflexion strength, dynamic balance and speed performances compared to the no-stretching control. Adding soleus stretches into the regular stretching protocol would allow further improvement of ankle flexibility, maximum plantarflexion strength and curved running speed performances. The results from this study can provide insights for pre-exercise design and subsequent performances in soccer.Most dynamic stretching protocols include the gastrocnemius muscle, but soleus stretches are often neglected, which is the key powerful muscle for the push-off (concentric) of all speed movements. The purpose of this study was to examine whether the added soleus stretch in a regular stretching protocol would have greater benefits for ankle flexibility, dynamic balance and functional performance. Fourteen healthy male soccer players received each of the stretching conditions (regular stretching only (Regular), regular stretching with soleus stretching (Soleus) and no stretching (Control)) randomly on different training days, with two-day separation. The ankle flexibility, standing heel-lift balance and speed performances were assessed following each stretching intervention. The active dynamic stretches were performed for 30 s with three repetitions on each of the three (Regular) and four (Soleus) muscles. One-way ANOVA with repeated measures (or the Friedman non-parametric test) was performed to determine any significant effect with alpha = 0.05. Our findings revealed that both the Regular and Soleus stretching groups showed an increased active range of ankle motion compared to the no-stretching control (Ps < 0.05). In the heel raise balance test, both stretching groups experienced a significant increase in maximum plantarflexion strength as well as resultant anterior–posterior and medial–lateral CoP excursions compared to the no-stretching control (Ps < 0.05). In the sprinting tasks, both the Soleus and Regular stretching groups induced faster linear and curved running times (Ps < 0.05). When comparing the two stretching groups, Soleus stretching led to better ankle flexibility, maximum plantarflexion strength and curved running time (Ps < 0.05). Thus, added stretches on the soleus muscles can provide further benefits to speed performances in soccer.

Chronic and Residual Effects of a Two-Week Foam Rolling Intervention on Ankle Flexibility and Dynamic Balance.

BackgroundFoam rolling has been shown to acutely improve joint range of motion (ROM). However, limited knowledge exists on the chronic and residual effects. The primary purpose of this study was to examine the chronic and residual effects of a 2-week roller–massager intervention on ankle dorsiflexion ROM and dynamic balance.MethodsForty-two participants (24.3 ± 2.5 years, 33 males, 9 females) were randomly assigned to either roller-massage (RM) or control group (= no intervention). Ankle ROM was assessed with the weight-bearing lunge test (WBLT) and dynamic balance with the Y-Balance test for both limbs. The RM group was instructed to roll their calf muscles for three sets of 60 s per leg on 6 days a week over 2 weeks. Acute effects were measured during baseline testing for dorsiflexion ROM and dynamic balance immediately after foam rolling. Chronic and residual effects were measured 1 day and 7 days after the intervention period. Multivariate ANOVA was performed for post-hoc comparisons to determine acute, chronic, and residual effects.ResultsSignificant acute and chronic foam rolling effects (p <0.05) were found for ankle dorsiflexion ROM. The chronic increase in ROM slightly decreased 7 days post-intervention but remained significantly above baseline (p < 0.05). Regarding dynamic balance, there were no acute but chronic (p < 0.05) and residual (p < 0.05) effects.ConclusionUsing a roller–massager for a 2-week period chronically increases ROM and dynamic balance. These increases are still significant 7 days post-intervention emphasizing the sustainability of foam rolling effects.

The effect of ankle flexibility on the relationship between knee isokinetic strength and the speed of underwater dolphin kicks in male competitive swimmers

BACKGROUND: Lower-extremity muscle strength and ankle flexibility play key roles in underwater swimming movements. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the relationship between knee isokinetic strength and the speed of underwater dolphin kicks (UDK-S) in competitive male swimmers and identify whether ankle flexibility affects the association between knee isokinetic strength and UDK-S. METHODS: Fifty-two highly trained male swimmers participated in this study. The speed at which the participants travelled 15 m performing UDKs was calculated as UDK-S. Knee flexor and extensor concentric isokinetic strength at fast (240∘/s) and slow (60∘/s) velocities and ankle flexibility were evaluated. Bayesian framework analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between these variables and determine whether this relationship is influenced by ankle flexibility. RESULTS: There was strong-to-extremely strong evidence (Bayes factor = 24.4 to 198.3) that knee extensor (60∘/s) and knee flexor (60∘/s and 240∘/s) strength are positively and generally moderately correlated with UDK-S. Ankle plantar flexion flexibility was identified to be a moderator between knee extensor strength (60∘/s) and UDK-S. CONCLUSIONS: Knee extensor and knee flexor strength were significantly correlated with UDK-S, and the relationship between knee muscle strength and UDK-S was influenced by ankle plantar flexion flexibility in male competitive swimmers.

Comparison of Kinesio Taping and Nerve Flossing Technique on Balance, Gait and Ankle Flexibility in Diabetic Neuropathy

Introduction: Diabetic Neuropathy (DN) is the most frequent neuropathy in developed countries, with a wide spectrum of clinical symptoms. Kinesiology Tape (KT) is a thin, stretchy, elastic cotton strip with an acrylic adhesive almost identical to human skin in both thickness and elasticity. Nerve Flossing Technique (NFT) is an alternation of combined movements of atleast two joints. Aim: To assess and compare the effects of KT and NFT on diabetic neuropathy patients’ balance, gait and ankle flexibility. Materials and Methods: This experimental study was conducted in Outpatient Department of Physiotherapy at SGT University, Gurugram, Haryana, India, from March 2021 to May 2021. Total 20 diabetic neuropathy patients were conveniently included from the hospital environment and were divided into two treatment groups. Group A (KT) included 10 patients, kinesio taping along with conventional physiotherapy and group B (NFT) included 10 patients, nerve flossing technique along with conventional physiotherapy. In both the groups, treatment was provided for three days a week for two weeks to improve their balance, gait and ankle flexibility. Performance Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA) scores were utilised to assess balance and gait, and a universal goniometer was used to assess ankle Range Of Motion (ROM). Data was analysed by using Independent and Paired t-test. Results: The mean age in group A was 55.3±5.056 years and in group B was 55±4.714 years and there was no significant difference (t=0.137, p-value=0.892). There was a significant difference in POMA score in both the groups (t=-5.344, p-value&lt;0.001) after two weeks of treatment. Ankle joint ROM was improved in group B than group A. Conclusion: The study concludes that KT improves balance and gait more than NFT, whereas NFT improves ankle range of motion more than KT in diabetic neuropathic patients.