Lower Limb Flexibility Research Articles

Transition of Physical, Psychological, and Cognitive Frailty and Its' Associated Determinants in Malaysian Older Adults: A 5-Year Follow-up Study.

Frailty, a multifaceted syndrome, affects approximately 26% of older adults globally, yet there are limited data on the prevalence and longitudinal impact of frailty subtypes. Therefore, in this study, we aim to determine the prevalence of physical, psychological, and cognitive frailty, transitions between subtypes, and associated health determinants among Malaysian community-dwelling older adults. This study is part of the longitudinal aging study in Malaysia (LRGS Ageless and TUA). We assessed 815 older adults in 2014, with successful follow-up of 402 participants (mean age: 67.08 ± 5.38 years) after 5 years. Frailty subtypes were assessed at baseline, and transitions were evaluated at the 5-year mark. At baseline, the prevalence of older adults categorized as robust, physical frailty, cognitive frailty, and psychological frailty was 26.7%, 36.3%, 12.1%, and 16.7%, respectively, with 8.1% exhibiting concurrent psychological and cognitive frailty. Follow-up results showed that 22.9% remained robust, 46.8% experienced no change, 24.9% deteriorated (adversed), and 5.5% improved (reversed). Logistic regression analysis identified living alone (p < 0.001), increased body fat percentage (p < 0.05), increased waist circumference (p < 0.05), reduced fat-free mass (p < 0.05), decreased lower limb flexibility (p < 0.05), and declined cardiorespiratory fitness (p < 0.05) as significant predictors of frailty deterioration. Higher Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores and improved Timed Up and Go and Chair Stand test results (p < 0.05) were significantly associated with the reversal of frailty subtypes (p < 0.05). Younger older adults (p < 0.001), males (p < 0.05), those with lower WHO Disability Scale scores (p < 0.05), and higher MMSE scores (p < 0.05) were significantly less likely to develop frailty subtypes. Intervention strategies that focus on combined physical, cognitive, and psychosocial functions are crucial for both reversing and preventing the progression of frailty subtypes in older adults.

Exploring the Association between Health-Related Physical Fitness and Quality of Life in Patients with Cancer: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Whereas an exercise intervention effectively improves patients' quality of life, little information is available about the contribution of each physical fitness component. This study aims to explore the association between physical fitness components and the quality-of-life domain in patients with cancer. Between September 2021 and August 2023, 160 patients with mixed cancer types visiting the Oncology Unit were selected on a consecutive basis according to selection criteria. They underwent a comprehensive baseline assessment including the six-minute walking test, the handgrip strength test, the isometric leg press test, the back scratch, sit and reach tests, their waist-hip ratio, and their body mass index. The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life and Core Questionnaire was used to measure the quality of life. The sample size was based on the use of regression models to study associations between clinical characteristics and fitness outcomes. All of the analyses were performed using the SPSS v.25 statistical package. Patients had a mean age of 58 years, 68% were female, 42% were affected by breast cancer, and all were receiving anticancer treatments. Higher functional capacity was associated with better global health status (p < 0.0001) and physical (p < 0.0001), role (p < 0.0001), emotional (p = 0.026), and social function (p = 0.016) and inversely linked with fatigue (p = 0.001). Lower-limb flexibility was significantly associated with all of the domains except for role and social functions. The waist-hip ratio was inversely associated with physical function (p < 0.0001) and positively related to fatigue (p = 0.037). Exercise programs aiming to improve the quality of life in cancer should be addressed to optimize these fitness components.

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.

Effects of elastic band resistance training on the physical and mental health of elderly individuals: A mixed methods systematic review.

Elastic band resistance training in elderly individuals can improve physical fitness and promote mental health in addition to other benefits. This systematic review aimed to review, summarize, and evaluate quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methodological studies on the use of elastic band resistance training in elderly individuals, and to investigate the influence of elastic band resistance training on the physical and mental health of elderly individuals, as well as their preferences and obstacles in training. A convergent separation approach was used to synthesize and integrate the results, specifically the mixed systematic review approach recommended by the Joanna Briggs Institute. The extensive search strategy included electronic database searches in the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, and CINAHL. The researchers rigorously screened the literature, extracted and analyzed the data, and evaluated the quality of the included studies using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Twenty-eight studies were included, of which 25 were quantitative studies, 2 were qualitative studies, and 1 was a mixed-methods study. A total of 1,697 subjects were investigated across all studies. Quantitative evidence supports the notion that elastic band resistance training can improve upper and lower limb flexibility, endurance, upper strength, physical balance, and cardiopulmonary function and enhance the mental health of elderly individuals. Participants in the qualitative study reported some preferences and obstacles with band resistance training, but most participants reported physical benefits. Despite the heterogeneity between studies, this review is the first systematic review to comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness of elastic band resistance training in older adults. It not only shows the influence of elastic band resistance training on the physical and mental health of the elderly, but also emphasizes the preference and obstacles of elderly individuals face.

Effectiveness of Resistance Band Use in Conjunction With Tai Chi Among Older Adults With Prefrailty to Improve Functional Fitness, Quality of Life, and Heart Rate Variability.

The current randomized controlled trial aimed to bolster the physical fitness of prefrail older adults, potentially delaying their need for admission to care facilities and enhancing their overall well-being. The experimental group received a physical fitness intervention comprising resistance band use and tai chi three times per week for 12 weeks, whereas the control group received frailty-related health education. Thirty-four male participants completed the study. A total of seven items had statistically significant differences at 12- and 16-week posttest, respectively: frailty index (p = 0.03; p = 0.03); Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale (p < 0.001; p < 0.001); and physical fitness, back (p < 0.001; p < 0.001); physical fitness, arm curl (p = 0.02; p < 0.001); physical activity (p < 0.001; p = 0.009); quality of life, physiological (p = 0.04; p < 0.001); and heart rate variability (p < 0.001; p < 0.001). Results revealed substantial improvements in physical fitness, frailty conditions, self-care abilities, and quality of life, but not balance or lower limb flexibility, for the experimental group. Therefore, exercise interventions may effectively improve prefrail older adults' quality of life. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 50(5), 19-26.].

Effectiveness of Aqua - Aerobic Exercise and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation in Improving Upper and Lower Limb Flexibility for Type II Diabetes Mellitus Patients

Effectiveness of Aqua - Aerobic Exercise and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation in Improving Upper and Lower Limb Flexibility for Type II Diabetes Mellitus Patients

Multicomponent Physical Program: Effects on Physical Fitness of Older Women of Different Age Groups

ABSTRACT Purpose: Experimental studies investigating the outcomes of physical exercise among age-stratified groups of older women are still incipient. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a ten-month multicomponent physical program on the physical fitness of older women in three age-stratified groups (60–69 years, 70–79 years, and ≥80 years). Method: Participants (n = 141) were divided into three age groups: GR1 60–69 years (n = 45; 65.2 ± 2.3 years); GR2 70–79 years (n = 67; 72.9 ± 2.9 years), GR3 ≥80 years (n = 29; 83.5 ± 4.5 years). The participants performed the multicomponent physical program and were evaluated before and after the intervention with Senior Fitness Test. Data were analyzed using generalized estimating equations, Bonferroni test (p ≤.05) and effect size (Cohen’s d). Results: For the group factor, there were significant differences in lower limb strength (p = .003), upper limb strength (p < .001), upper limb flexibility (p < .001), balance/agility (p < .001), and cardiorespiratory fitness (p < .001). For the time factor, significant differences were observed in lower limb strength (GR2, p = .014, small effect size), upper limb strength (GR1, p = .003; GR2, p < .001; GR3, p = .017; small effect sizes), lower limb flexibility (GR1, p = .025, non-significant effect size), cardiorespiratory fitness (GR1, p < .001, medium effect size; GR2, p = .002; small effect size). Conclusion: Physical fitness improved with training, but effects differed between age groups. Positive effects were observed for GR1 and GR2, whereas GR3 showed maintenance of physical fitness. Aging interferes more strongly in women aged 80 years and older and it is necessary for specific training programs for this age group.

Study of Static Vs Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Stretching of Tight Hamstrings, and Its Effect on Lower Limb Flexibility and Speed of Sprinter - A Comparative Study

Background: Hamstring injuries are one of the most common injuries seen in sprinters, leading to reduction in flexibility and speed in sprinters. The study aimed at comparing the two most appropriate methods of hamstring stretching, i.e., static stretching (SS) and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching (PNFS), in sprinters for the management of tight hamstrings and measurement of their effectiveness on flexibility and speed. Materials and Methods: After ethical clearance and informed consent, 80 male subjects who met inclusion criteria were recruited and randomised into the SS (n = 40) and PNFS (n = 40) groups. Baseline data on age, height, weight, BMI, hamstring flexibility (knee extension deficit (KED) on active knee extension test (AKET), and speed parameters (30-metre sprint test) documented at the beginning of the study and at the end of the 12-week study period. Results and Conclusion: subjects showed variable results. Flexibility differences within groups pre- and post-intervention were statistically significant, but not between groups, indicating both methods are effective on flexibility. The differences in speed components of athletes were statistically significant within and between groups. The PNFS group has shown better improvements than the SS group on speed testing. This may be attributable to the neurological mechanism involved in the contract-relax method, where muscle is elongated and tone is stabilised during the contraction phase of PNF stretching. Keywords: static stretching, PNF Stretching, knee extension deficit, active knee extension test, 30-meter sprint test, Pheezee, Range of motion tool, Hamstrings flexibility, Hamstrings tightness.

여성 노인의 하지 기능 향상을 위한 홈-트레이닝 운동 개발

This study aims to develop a home-training exercise program to improve lower extremity function in elderly women. Accordingly, through the Plan-Do-Check-Act (hereinafter PDCA) model, a program was developed and applied to evaluate its usability. In the first cycle, the program was developed (P), applied (D), and structured (A) through qualitative evaluation (C). The program was developed by combining baseball massage and self-resistance exercise, and was applied to seven elderly women over 65 years of age twice a week for a total of 12 weeks. The program was implemented non-face-to-face (Zoom, Jitsi-meet) with an instructor once a week, and at-home exercise was conducted through home training once a week. In the process of running the program, operations that needed to be excluded or modified were identified, and the program was structured to reflect this. In the second cycle, the structured program from the first cycle was applied to 15 elderly women twice a week for a total of 8 weeks, and changes in lower limb function of a total of 15 people were evaluated. As a result, compared to before participating in the program, there was a positive improvement in all items, including lower limb flexibility (p-value&lt;.001), lower limb strength (p-value&lt;.001), and dynamic agility (p-value&lt;.001). appear. Baseball massage and self-resistance exercise to improve the lower limb function of the elderly through 2 cycles of PDCA is a program with a high compliance rate and no injuries or side effects, and can be used as a home-training method that can contribute to improving lower limb function. This has been confirmed.

Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing the Effectiveness of Post Isometric Relaxation versus Static Stretching in Lower Limb Flexibility among Asymptomatic Healthy Individuals

Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing the Effectiveness of Post Isometric Relaxation versus Static Stretching in Lower Limb Flexibility among Asymptomatic Healthy Individuals

Assessing the Fitness of Physiotherapy Postgraduate Students Coping with the Future Job Demand

Background &amp; purpose: Physical fitness is a state of health and well-being and, more specifically, the ability toperform aspects of sports, occupations, and daily activities. Physical fitness is generally achieved through propernutrition, moderate-vigorous physical exercise and sufficient rest. The study’s objectives were to measure theupper limb and lower limb flexibility, strength of upper limb, lower limb and aerobic fitness of the Postgraduatestudents in Bengaluru using tests and to assess the coping of Postgraduate physiotherapy students towards the jobdemands, physical exercise and fitness.Method: This study included subjects between the ages of 21 – 30 years of physiotherapy postgraduate students.Subjects were recruited based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. It was a descriptive cross-sectional study of 117subjects. Demographic data were collected, Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire, Physical Activity Readiness -questionnaire (PAR-Q) and Physiotherapy student occupational health and safety questionnaire was used, andBMI, skinfold, waist to hip ratio, shoulder flexibility test, sit and reach test, push-up test, single leg wall sit test andHarvard step test were used to find the level of physical fitness.Results: Self-perceived fitness level among 117 subjects was 16.2% good, 68.4% moderate, and 15.4% poor. It wasobserved that the prevalence of neck trouble in the last 12 months was 50.42%, trouble during the last 7 days was34.18 %, and ADL affected in the last 12 months was 13.67%.Conclusion: The present study showed that self-perceived fitness was moderate level, and health-related fitnessevaluation findings showed poor fitness among physiotherapy postgraduate students. There was the highestprevalence of musculoskeletal disorders at the neck. The musculoskeletal pain seen among postgraduate studentsmay affect their task performance and hinder work efficiency

Effects of multimodal physical activity program in the cognive functions and functional fitness test in elderly with and without Alzheimer Disease

AbstractBackgroundAlzheimer’s Disease (AD) is the most prevalent disease among all dementias, and is characterized by progressive deficits in cognitive function and activities of daily living.The aim of this study was compare effects of multimodal physical activity program in functional capacity, memory, and attention in elderly with and without AD.MethodEighteen elderly with AD were ramdomized into the control (AD‐C) or multimodal physical activity program (AD‐T) groups. Also twenty without AD were divided in the control (NAD‐C) or physical activity program (NAD‐T) groups. All participants performed the international physical activity questionnaire, neuropsicological evaluation using Mini Mental State Examination, Syndrom Kurztest (SKT), clinical dementia rating. The functional fitness test was evaluated by the muscular resistance (30‐second chair stand and arm curl), aerobic capacity (2‐minute step in the place), lower and upper body flexbility (chair sit‐and‐reach, and back scratch tests) and agility/dynamic balance (8‐foot up and go). The shoulder and ankle amplitude were measured using a Fleximeter. The multimodal physical activity program included warm up, aerobic exercises, strength, flexibility, and cool down for 3 months, twice a week, with 75 min each session for NAD‐T and AD‐T groups.ResultThe physical activity program significantly increased the leisure‐time physical activity level, upper body muscular strength, aerobic capacity, upper and lower body flexibility, shoulder and ankle extension range in the NAD‐T and AD‐T (P&lt;0.05). Also increased agility/dinamic balance compared to the AD‐C group (P&lt;0.05). Concerning the cognition, the multimodal training improved SKT‐memory in both groups NAD‐T and AD‐T (P&lt;0.05). SKT‐atention improved in the NAD‐T group (P&lt;0.05).ConclusionThe multimodal physical activity program was effective in increasing the level of leisure‐time physical activity, aerobic capacity, muscle strength, lower limb flexibility, shoulder extension, and memory, independent of the AD. Additionaly, the program attenuated the decline in agility/dinamic balance compared to the AD‐C group. Attentional function improved in the NAD‐T group. These benefits may contribute to a better performance in activities of daily living, reduction of falls and attenuation of the decline of cognitive functions in elderly people with and without AD.

Whole-body vibration on lower limb flexibility and extensibility – a randomized clinical trial

Introduction and aim. The whole-body vibration has become known for optimizing the production of muscle power due to mechanical oscillations that are dependent on vibration frequency. However, the effects of varying the vibration frequency on flexibility have still been little explored. Compare the effects of two frequencies of whole-body vibration on flexibility and extensibility of the lower limbs. Material and methods. Randomized clinical trial with a sample of 42 young adult volunteers of both sexes, who performed squatting sessions with individualized load on a platform and distributed into three groups of vibration frequency: control group (CG), with the platform off; low frequency group (LF), with a frequency of 30 Hz; high frequency group (HF), with a frequency of 45 Hz. In total, the intervention was carried out in 12 sessions and lasted 6 weeks, with 2 sessions per week. Flexibility, evaluated before and after the intervention by the sit and reach test (Wells bench) and by evaluating the extensibility of the ischiotibials by goniometry. Results. No statistical differences were observed for any of the outcomes evaluated. Conclusion. None of the proposed frequencies produced gains in flexibility and extensibility of the lower extremities and there was no superiority of one frequency over another.

Intra and interrater reliability for lower limb flexibility assessment using photogrammetry

IntroductionPhotogrammetry represents an advancement in the flexibility evaluation, and although it was highly explored for postural assessment, there is a scarcity of studies analyzing lower limb angular measurements using it. The purpose of this study is to verify the reliability of intrarater and interrarater photogrammetry in assessing lower limb flexibility. MethodsThis was a randomized cross-sectional observational study with test-retest design and a two-day interval. Thirty healthy, physically active adults were included. Three novice raters assessed the participants through flexibility tests of iliopsoas, hamstring, quadriceps and gastrocnemius on two occasions, and independently analyzed the captured images to establish reliability. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimal detectable change (MDC) were calculated. ResultsIntrarater reliability was excellent for iliopsoas (ICC = 0.96; SEM = 1.4; MDC = 3.8), hamstring (ICC = 0.99; SEM = 1.1; MDC = 3.1), quadriceps (ICC = 0.99; SEM = 0.8; MDC = 2.3) and gastrocnemius (ICC = 0.98; SEM = 0.9; MDC = 2.5). Interrater reliability was excellent for iliopsoas (ICC = 0.94; SEM = 1.7; MDC = 4.6) and gastrocnemius (ICC = 0.91; SEM = 2.1; MDC = 5.8), but good for hamstring (ICC = 0.90; SEM = 2.8; MDC = 7.9) and quadriceps (ICC = 0.85; SEM = 3.0; MDC = 8.3). ConclusionsThe excellent intrarater and good to excellent interrater reliability suggest that photogrammetry assessment of lower limb flexibility by novice raters is reliable. However, clinicians should consider the higher threshold of range of motion change necessary to outweigh measurement error due to interrater variability.

Referential values for lower limb flexibility in healthy children and adolescents in Japan: A five-year cross-sectional study

BackgroundLower limb flexibility (LLF) is an essential motor function. However, assessing LLF during adolescence is difficult because of the influence of marked physical changes. We, therefore, assessed LLF and investigated the relationship between LLF and sex and age in healthy children and adolescents. MethodsWe conducted a five-year cross-sectional study with students aged 8–14 years at a single school in Japan. We evaluated the heel-buttock distance (HBD), straight leg raising angle (SLRA), and dorsiflexion angle of the ankle joint (DFA) at the beginning of each year. We conducted a comparative analysis on the performance of the HBD, SLRA, and DFA techniques, stratified by both sex and age. The statistical significance of observed differences was assessed through the application of Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis tests. Furthermore, we analyzed the effects of sex, age, height, and weight on LLF using a multivariable linear regression model. ResultsOf the 4221 initial study participants, 3370 were analyzed. Mean HBD, SLRA, and DFA values were 1.6 cm, 77.0°, and 15.7°, respectively. Girls showed significantly higher HBD and lower SLRA and DFA values than boys and 14-year-olds (p < 0.01). Median HBD value for girls was 0 cm, whereas for boys, it exceeded 0 cm after age 13. The median SLRA value for girls was 80–85°, while for boys, it was 70–75°. The median DFA value for girls was 15–19°, and for boys, it was 12–15°. A multivariable linear regression model indicated that boys had significantly greater tightness than girls (p < 0.01). ConclusionsThe reference values of HBD, SLRA, and DFA differed according to age and sex. Furthermore, we showed that sex differences were significantly associated with LLF. Data in this study provide the reference value for assessing LLF in children and adolescents.

The immediate effect of unilaterally applied lumbar mobilisations on the passive straight leg raise and ninety-ninety test in asymptomatic adults: A randomised crossover trial

ObjectivesThis study assessed the immediate effect of unilateral posterior-anterior lumbar mobilisations on trunk and lower limb flexibility in asymptomatic individuals. Study designRandomised cross-over trial. ParticipantsTwenty-seven participants (age = 26.0 years ±6.4) with no current or recent history of lower back or leg pain/surgery completed the study. Main outcome measuresParticipants attended two sessions, receiving either grade 3 (‘treatment’) or grade 1 (‘sham’) unilateral spinal mobilisations. Outcome measures (modified-modified Schober's test [MMST], ninety-ninety test [NNT], and passive straight-leg raise [PSLR]) were assessed immediately before and after (post-1 and post-2) the intervention. An instrumented hand-held dynamometer was used to measure the change in NNT and PSLR joint angle (deg) and passive stiffness (Nm/deg) pre- and post-intervention. ResultsThe mean change in PSLR angle at the first (P1) and maximal (P2) point of discomfort following the treatment was 4.8° and 5.5°, and 5.6° and 5.7°, larger than the sham at post-1 and post-2, respectively. There was no effect of the treatment on the PSLR at P1 or P2 for the contralateral limb at either timepoint. There was no effect of the treatment on MMST distance, NNT angle or passive stiffness, or PSLR passive stiffness, for either limb. ConclusionsImmediate effects of unilateral posterior-anterior lumbar mobilisations in asymptomatic individuals are isolated to treatment side and limited to a small increase in PSLR range, with no change in lumbar motion or the NNT test.

HUBUNGAN KEKUATAN CORE STABILITY DENGAN FLEKSIBILITAS LOWER LIMB PADA LANSIA DI PANTI WERDHA BUDI MULIA 3 JAKARTA

Old age is often associated with an age that is no longer productive, it is even said to be a burden for those of productive age. These changes will affect balance, flexibility and strength in posture. Core stability is an important aspect ofposture. Flexibility can be defined as the ability to move freely and comfortably within the maximum expected range of motion. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between core stability strength and lower limb flexibility in the elderly. This study uses a descriptive correlation research with a cross sectional model. The measuringinstrument used in this study is flexibility using the Chair Sit and Reach Test and for core stability using the Sit Up Test, and a large sample of 31 elderly people in the Budi Mulia nursing home. The data analysis used is univariate and bivariate analysis. The results of research that has been carried out using the Spearman Rho correlation test method can be concluded that there is no relationship between core stability strength and lower limb flexibility in the elderly. The conclusion is suggested with a larger sample size and a more precise research screening, to be able to find the characteristics of a wider range of respondents which is expected to be wider.

Association between Physical Fitness and Perceived Well-Being in Functionally Independent Community Dwelling Elderly of North-Eastern India.

Regular physical activity helps in independent living, prevention of chronic health problems and quality of life in the elderly. The aim of the study is to determinewhether physical fitness is associated with multiple dimensions of well-being in the community dwelling elderly. A community-based cross-sectional study was undertaken to assess the physical fitness and perceived wellness in 400 elderly (≥65 years) subjects. The Senior Fitness Test (SFT) for assessing functional/physical fitness and Perceived Wellness Survey (PWS) were used to assess their well-being. Bivariate correlation analysis was used for individual testsand multiple linear regressions were used to analyze relationship of wellness composite score with physical fitness test. 284men and 116 women (mean ages 69.80±3.82 and67.25±2.57 years, respectively) were assessed for physical fitness tests and perceived wellness.'Arm-curl' and 'chair-sit' testsshowedlinear decrease in strength with increasing age. In 'back-scratch' and 'chair-sit and reach' tests lower limb flexibility was better than upper limb in all except the 65-69 year sub-group. Maximum time to perform the '8-feet up-and-go' test increased progressively with age, whereas '2-minute step' test showed a linear decrease in mean score with advancing age. Wellness composite score (14.54±2.31) inmaleswas maximum in the 75-79 year age-group, while in females it (15.26±2.29) was maximum in the 70-74 year age-group. Correlation analysis of physical fitness test with perception of wellness (composite score) showed significant association of 'arm-curl' test (p=0.012), 'back-scratch' test (p=0.0002), '8-feet up-and-go' test (p=0.005), '2-minute step' test (p=0.005) with the composite wellness score in the male participants, whereas in the females such significance was observed only in the '2 minute step' test (p=0.007) with the wellness score. Screening of physical fitness and wellness are important measures in assessing wellness of community dwelling elderly, and in predicting theiroverall state of well-being, including age-specific comparison of fitness performance and wellness score.

Differential effects of dynamic and ballistic stretching on contralateral lower limb flexibility

BACKGROUND: Dynamic stretching (DS) and ballistic stretching (BS) are similar stretching methods, but the differences between them are unclear. OBJECTIVE: To examine the immediate effects of unilateral hamstring DS and BS on straight leg raise (SLR), knee flexion range of motion (KF-ROM), and KF and knee extension maximal isokinetic peak torque (KF-MIPT and KE-MIPT) of the bilateral limbs. METHODS: Twelve healthy adult men performed four sets of 2 min each of non-stretching, DS, or BS of the right lower extremity. Bilateral SLR, KF-ROM, KF-MIPT, and KE-MIPT were measured pre- and post-intervention; a three-way (intervention × limb × time) repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used. RESULTS: The SLR of the stretched limb (p&lt; 0.01) was higher with DS than that pre-intervention. SLR (p&lt; 0.01) and KF-ROM (p&lt; 0.05) of the stretched limb and SLR (p&lt; 0.05) and KF-ROM (p&lt; 0.05) of the contralateral limb were higher with BS than those pre-intervention. There was no significant main effect or interaction between KF-MIPT and KE-MIPT. CONCLUSION: DS and BS had slightly different effects on ROM, and neither affected muscle strength; thus, combining the techniques during warm-up might be helpful.

Relationship Between Posterior Shoulder Tightness and Lower-Limb Flexibility in College Baseball Players.

Posterior shoulder tightness evaluated as limited glenohumeral internal rotation and horizontal adduction is a risk factor for throwing-related shoulder and elbow injuries. Given that the throwing motion uses the entire body kinematics, limited lower-limb flexibility might be associated with posterior shoulder tightness. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the relationships between posterior shoulder tightness and lower-limb flexibility in college baseball players. Cross-sectional study. University laboratory. Twenty-two college baseball players (20 right-handed and 2 left-handed). To investigate the relationships between glenohumeral range of motion and lower-limb flexibility using simple linear regression analysis, we measured passive range of motion of glenohumeral internal rotation and horizontal adduction, hip internal/external rotation in the prone/sitting position, ankle dorsiflexion, and quadriceps and hamstrings flexibility from both shoulders and legs. Our analysis indicated that decreases in the lead leg hip external rotation in the prone position were moderately associated with limitations in glenohumeral internal rotation (R2 = .250, β [95% confidence interval, CI] = 0.500 [0.149 to 1.392], P = .018) and horizontal adduction (R2 = .200, β [95% CI] = 0.447 [0.051 to 1.499], P = .019) on the throwing shoulder. Furthermore, there were significant moderate relationships between decreases in glenohumeral internal rotation and limited lead leg quadriceps flexibility (R2 = .189, β [95% CI] = 0.435 [0.019 to 1.137], P = .022), and between decreases in glenohumeral horizontal adduction and limited stance leg ankle dorsiflexion (R2 = .243, β [95% CI] = 0.493 [0.139 to 1.438], P = .010). College baseball players with limited lower-limb flexibilities including the lead leg hip external rotation in the prone position, the lead leg quadriceps flexibility, and the stance leg ankle dorsiflexion showed excessive posterior shoulder tightness. The current results support the hypothesis that lower-limb flexibility is associated with posterior shoulder tightness in college baseball players.