Hip Flexor Strength Research Articles

Relationship of stump length with muscle strength, proprioception, and balance in patients with traumatic unilateral transfemoral amputation.

Many factors affect the rehabilitation of lower limb amputation. One of these factors is the length of the stump. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship of stump length with muscle strength, proprioception, and balance in patients with traumatic unilateral transfemoral amputation. Sixteen patients with traumatic unilateral transfemoral amputation were included in this cross-sectional study. Stump length was determined by measuring the distance from the trochanter major to the tip of the stump. Hip extensor and flexor muscle strength on the amputated side was determined using the computer-assisted isokinetic system. The proprioceptive sensation of the lower extremities was measured at hip flexion with computer-assisted isokinetic system. Balance of the patients was determined using the Berg Balance Scale. There was a statistically significant negative correlation between the stump length and proprioception measurements (r = -0.508, p = 0.044). There was also a statistically significant correlation between Berg Balance Scale and the flexion total work value at 60° angular velocity (r = 0.541, p = 0.03). There was no significant correlation between stump length and other muscle strength, proprioception, and balance parameters. A relationship was found between stump length and proprioception, and balance and hip flexor muscle strength in patients with traumatic unilateral transfemoral amputation. In elective lower limb amputations, the level of amputation should be determined at the most functional level with the longest possible stump.

The Impact of Lesser Trochanter Displacement on Hip Flexor Strength Recovery in Patients With Trochanteric Fracture.

Trochanteric fractures (TFs) are common in older individuals and are expected to increase with Japan's aging population. These fractures often result in poor long-term outcomes, such as decreased independent walking and reduced hospital discharge rates. A significant aspect of TF involves displacement of the lesser trochanter (LT), which can weaken hip flexor muscles and potentially affect the recovery of activities of daily living (ADLs), including walking. Previous research has shown conflicting results regarding the effect of lesser trochanteric displacement on hip function and walking ability. This study aimed to determine whether displacement of the LT affects the recovery of hip flexor strength and walking ability at discharge in patients with TF. This prospective cohort study included 29 patients with TF admitted to a rehabilitation hospital between April 2023 and June 2024. The patients were classified into two groups: the LTdisplacement and the non-LT (NLT) displacement groups. Muscle strength (hip flexion, abduction, and knee extension) was measured using a handheld dynamometer. Walking ability assessments included gait speed, timed up-and-go test (TUG), 6-minute walk test (6 MWT), and functional ambulation category (FAC). Cognitive function was evaluated using the Hasegawa Dementia Rating Scale-Revised (HDS-R). Statistical analyses included repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) for muscle strength comparisons over time, with adjustments for violations of sphericity using the Greenhouse-Geisser correction. There were no significant differences between the LT and NLT groups in terms of demographic characteristics such as age, sex, or cognitive function. Repeated-measures ANOVA revealed a significant difference in hip flexor strength on the injured side between the groups, with the LT group showing persistent weakness until discharge. Significant improvements were noted in hip abduction and knee extension strength on the injured side, although no group differences were observed. Post-hoc analysis indicated significant strength improvements over time, particularly between admission and discharge, for most muscle groups, except for hip flexor strength in the LT group. Lesser trochanteric displacement in patients with TF resulted in a specific decline in hip flexor strength on the injured side, which persisted until discharge. However, no significant impact on walking ability was observed, likely because of compensatory mechanisms involving other muscles.

The effect of physical therapy and mechanical stimulation on dysfunction of lower extremities after total pelvic exenteration in cervical carcinoma patient with rectovesicovaginal fistula induced by radiotherapy: a case report

BackgroundTotal pelvic exenteration is the ultimate solution for rectovesicovaginal fistula caused by radiation therapy, yet total pelvic exenteration frequently causes intraoperative complications and postoperative complications. These complications are responsible for the dysfunction of lower extremities, impaired quality of life, and even the high long-term morbidity rate, thus multidisciplinary cooperation and early intervention for prevention of complications are necessary. Physical therapy was found to reduce the postoperative complications and promote rehabilitation, yet the effect on how physiotherapy prevents and treats complications after total pelvic exenteration and pelvic lymphadenectomy remains unclear.Case presentationA 50-year-old Chinese woman gradually developed perianal and pelvic floor pain and discomfort, right lower limb numbness, and involuntary vaginal discharge owing to recurrence and metastasis of cervical cancer more than half a year ago. Diagnosed as rectovesicovaginal fistula caused by radiation, she received total pelvic exenteration and subsequently developed severe lower limb edema, swelling pain, obturator nerve injury, and motor dysfunction. The patient was referred to a physiotherapist who performed rehabilitation evaluation and found edema in both lower extremities, right inguinal region pain (numeric pain rate scale 5/10), decreased temperature sensation and light touch in the medial thigh of the right lower limb, decreased right hip adductor muscle strength (manual muscle test 1/5) and right hip flexor muscle strength (manual muscle test 1/5), inability actively to adduct and flex the right hip with knee extension, low de Morton mobility Index score (0/100), and low Modified Barthel Index score (35/100). Routine physiotherapy was performed in 2 weeks, including therapeutic exercises, mechanical stimulation and electrical stimulation as well as manual therapy. The outcomes showed that physiotherapy significantly reduced lower limb pain and swelling, and improved hip range of motion, motor function, and activities of daily living, but still did not prevent thrombosis.ConclusionStandardized physical therapy demonstrates the effect on postoperative complications after total pelvic exenteration and pelvic lymphadenectomy. This supports the necessity of multidisciplinary cooperation and early physiotherapy intervention. Further research is needed to determine the causes of thrombosis after standardized intervention, and more randomized controlled trials are needed to investigate the efficacy of physical therapy after total pelvic exenteration.

What is the influence of biomechanical variables on the Y balance test performance in recreational runners?

BackgroundAsymmetries and poor Y balance test (YBT) performance are associated with an increased risk of injuries in athletes. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between YBT performance with biomechanical variables in runners. MethodsThe runners underwent the YBT, followed by the assessment of center of pressure, plank position, muscle strength (MS) of hip flexors, extensors, abductors, and external rotators, knee extensors, ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM), Q angle, forefoot alignment, and passive hip internal rotation. Associations between variables were examined using multiple linear regression models with the Bayesian Information Criterion. Results122 cases were analyzed. The R2 values were 0.38; 0.05; 0.06; and 0.15 for the anterior, posteromedial, posterolateral and composite directions models, respectively. The anterior reach in the YBT was associated with ankle dorsiflexion ROM [Sβ 95%IC: 0.43 (0.32–0.55)], passive hip internal rotation [Sβ 95%IC: 0.35 (0.24–0.47)], MS of the hip extensors [Sβ 95%IC: 0.19 (0.07–0.31)] and forefoot alignment [Sβ 95%IC: 0.14 (-0.25-0.02)]. The posteromedial and posterolateral reach were associated with MS of the hip flexors [Sβ 95%IC: 0.23 (0.09–0.37) and 0.24 (0.11–0.38)], respectively. The composite score was associated with MS of the hip flexors [Sβ 95%IC: 0.31 (0.18–0.45)], ankle dorsiflexion ROM [Sβ 95%IC: 0.24 (0.10–0.37)] and Q angle [Sβ 95%IC: 0.18 (0.04–0.31)]. ConclusionYBT performance in different directions demonstrated specific associations with key biomechanical factors.

Use of a Triaxial Accelerometer to Measure Changes in Gait Sway and Related Motor Function after Corrective Spinal Fusion Surgery for Adult Spinal Deformity.

Background: Adult spinal deformity is a complex condition that causes lower back pain, causing spinal imbalance and discomfort in activities of daily life. After corrective spinal surgery, patients' gait and balance abilities might not revert to normalcy and they might be at increased risk of falling. Therefore, early evaluation of such a risk is imperative to prevent further complications such as a fall, or even worse, fractures in post-surgery ASD patients. However, there has been no report of an investigation of such early changes in gait sway before and after ASD surgery. This is a prospective to investigate changes in gait sway before and following ASD surgery, using accelerometers, and also to examine motor function related to postoperative gait sway. Methods: Twenty patients were included who underwent corrective surgery as treatment for ASD, from October 2019 to January 2023. Measurement parameters included a 10 m walking test and the timed up-and-go test (TUG), gait sway was evaluated using accelerometers (root mean square; RMS), and hip flexion and knee extension muscle strength were tested. RMS included RMS vertical: RMSV; RMS anterior posterior: RMSAP; RMS medial lateral: RMSML. The radiographic spinopelvic parameters were also evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively. p < 0.05 was noted as remarkably significant. Results: Preoperative and postoperative RMSV were 1.07 ± 0.6 and 1.31 ± 0.8, respectively (p < 0.05). RMSML significantly decreased from 0.33 ± 0.2 to 0.19 ± 0.1 postoperatively (p < 0.01). However, RMSAP did not change postoperatively (0.20 ± 0.2 vs. 0.14 ± 0.1, p > 0.05). Patients' one-month postoperative hip flexor muscle strength became significantly weaker (0.16 ± 0.04 vs. 0.10 ± 0.03 kgf/kg, p = 0.002), but TUG was maintained (11.6 ± 4.2 vs. 11.7 s, p = 0.305). RMSV was negatively correlated with quadriceps muscle strength and positively with TUG. RMSAP was negatively correlated with quadriceps muscle strength. All spinopelvic parameters became normal range after surgery. Conclusions: After corrective spinal fusion for ASD patients, the gait pattern improved significantly. Iliopsoas (hip flexor) and quadriceps femoris (knee extensor) muscles may play important roles for gait anterolateral and vertical swing, respectively.

Efficacy of modified active physical therapy program on pain, muscle strength, and function in adolescent football players with osteitis pubis

BackgroundIn athletes, osteitis pubis (OP) is considered a major cause of chronic groin pain. In addition to the difficulties with diagnosis, controversy exists regarding the most appropriate treatment approach. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of a modified active physical therapy program (MAPT) on pain, hip and trunk muscle strengths, and lower extremity function in adolescent football players with OP.MethodsFifty football players aged from 12 to 18 years with OP were included and allocated into two groups: the MAPT group (n = 24) and the traditional physical therapy (TPT) group (n = 26). Each group received a different treatment protocol for 60 min applied 3 times/week for 12 weeks. A visual analog scale, digital hand-held dynamometer (HHD), and lower extremity functional scale (LEFS) were used to measure pain, hip and trunk muscle strengths, and lower limb function, respectively, at baseline and 12 weeks post-intervention.ResultsThere was a highly significant difference in the TPT group’s pain score (p < 0.001) compared with the MAPT group. Also, the strength of hip flexors, abductors, adductors, internal rotators, external rotators, and trunk flexors and extensors improved significantly (p < 0.05) than the TPT group. However, the between-group analysis revealed that the strength of hip extensors and LEFS in the MAPT group achieved a highly significant difference (p < 0.001) compared with the TPT group.ConclusionMAPT could be recommended strongly in the rehabilitation of OP in adolescent football players in which the functional abilities of OP patients improved because of reduced pain levels and increased hip and trunk muscle strength. (IRCT20210909052421N3, Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials, https://www.irct.ir/trial/68946/pdf, 9-April-2023).

Effect of combined Kinesiotaping and resistive exercise on muscle strength and quality of life in breast cancer survivors: a randomized clinical trial

BackgroundBreast cancer (BC) and its treatment affect women's tissue architecture and physiology, which leads to impaired muscle strength and joint dysfunction, affecting quality of life (QOL). Most evidence has focused on exercises; however, due to the complexity and heterogeneity of patients’ rehabilitation needs, further research is required to investigate more adjunctive methods to help optimal rehabilitation according to patients’ needs, preferences, and effective interventions.MethodsThis study aimed to determine the effect of Kinesiotaping (KT) combined with resistive exercise on muscle strength and QOL in breast cancer survivors (BCS). Forty premenopausal BCS treated with chemotherapy postmastectomy participated in this study. Their age ranged from 40 to 55 years, and their body mass index (BMI) was 25–29.9 kg/m2. They were randomly distributed into two equal groups. The control group received resistive exercise two times/week for 12 weeks, while the study group received resistive exercise and KT applied to the lower limbs. Hip, knee, and ankle muscle strength were measured using a hand-held dynamometer, and QOL was evaluated using 36-Item Short Form (SF-36) before and after treatment.ResultsBoth groups showed a significant increase (p = 0.0001) in the strength of hip flexors, knee extensors, flexors, ankle plantar flexors, and dorsiflexors, as well as SF-36 score after treatment. However, the study group showed a more significant increase in strength of hip flexors (p = 0.005), knee extensors (p = 0.01) and flexors (p = 0.02), ankle plantar flexors (p = 0.01), and dorsiflexors (p = 0.01), as well as SF-36 score (p = 0.006) than the control group.ConclusionsKT plus resistive exercise is more effective than exercise alone for improving muscle strength and QOL in BCS. So, the KT can be recommended as a non-invasive, adjunctive method added to the protocol therapy for BCS to help better outcomes during the rehabilitation period.

Correlation between handgrip strength and lower extremity strength amongst Malaysian professional football players

ABSTRACT Background: We investigated the pattern of handgrip strength (HGS) and lower extremity strength in professional football players and how they were correlated. Methods: Secondary data were gathered during pre-participation evaluation sessions from a sample of 87 Selangor state-based Malaysian professional football players. The statistical analysis of the pattern of lower limb strength and HGS was based on the player’s position on the field. The correlation between HGS and lower extremity strength was looked at using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. The factors that affect HGS were analysed using a multivariate regression model. Results: In both dominant (P = 0.026) and non-dominant hands (P = 0.016), goalkeepers had significantly higher HGS than strikers. Dominant HGS had a moderate correlation with knee extensor strength (r = 0.38, P &lt; 0.05). The moderate correlation between HGS and knee extensor strength remains consistent despite being controlled for weight (r = 0.33, P &lt;0.05) and skeletal muscle mass (SMM) (r = 0.31, P &lt; 0.05). Significant correlations were observed despite the lower correlation value between dominant HGS and hip flexor strength (r = 0.31, P &lt; 0.05), hip extensor strength (r = 0.30, P &lt; 0.05) and knee flexor strength (r = 0.29, P &lt; 0.05). Dominant knee extensor strength and SMM were identified as statistically significant predictors for dominant HGS (F [2,84] = 11.60, P &lt; 0.01) with R2 = 0.22. Conclusions: The unique anthropometric traits of professional footballers, especially goalkeepers, improve HGS. Handgrip and knee extensor strength were moderately correlated, supporting previous study findings on the existence of a non-local effect between upper limb and lower limb strength.

Concentric and eccentric hip musculotendon work depends on backpack loads and walking slopes

Hip muscle weakness is associated with low back and leg injuries. In addition, hiking with heavy loads is linked to high incidence of overuse injuries. Walking with heavy loads on slopes alters hip biomechanics compared to unloaded walking, but individual muscle mechanical work in these challenging conditions is unknown. Using movement simulations, we quantified hip muscle concentric and eccentric work during walking on 0° and ±10° slopes with, and without 40% bodyweight added loads, and with and without a hip belt. For gluteus maximus, psoas, iliacus, gluteus medius, and biceps femoris long head, both concentric and eccentric work were greatest during uphill walking. For rectus femoris and semimembranosus, concentric work was greatest during uphill and eccentric work was greatest during downhill walking. Loaded walking had greater concentric and eccentric work from rectus femoris, biceps femoris long head, and gluteus maximus. Psoas concentric work was greatest while carrying loads regardless of hip belt usage, but eccentric work was only greater than unloaded walking when using a hip belt. Loaded and uphill walking had high concentric work from gluteus maximus, and high eccentric work from gluteus medius and biceps femoris long head. Carrying heavy loads uphill may lead to excessive hip muscle fatigue and heightened injury risk. Effects of the greater eccentric work from hip flexors when wearing a hip belt on lumbar spine forces and pelvic stability should be investigated. Military and other occupational groups who carry heavy backpacks with hip belts should maintain eccentric strength of hip flexors and hamstrings.

Comparison of the Hip Flexor Strength in Subjects with and without Femoral Anterior Glide Type according to Manual Fixation of Femoral Head during Active Straight Leg Raise

Comparison of the Hip Flexor Strength in Subjects with and without Femoral Anterior Glide Type according to Manual Fixation of Femoral Head during Active Straight Leg Raise

Influence of lower limb muscle isometric strength and cardiovascular parameters on locomotor capacity in children and adolescents.

Although measures of exercise performance and physical activity are known to be related to 6-minute walk test (6mWT), the role of the strength of each muscle group of the lower limb in the locomotor capacity during the development period is unknown. To identify the role of the isometric strength of lower limb muscles and cardiovascular parameters on the locomotor capacity in children and adolescents, controlling for participants sex, age, and height. Participants (7 to 15 years old; female, n= 113; male, n= 128) were assessed for isometric strength (seven lower limb muscles), cardiovascular parameters (diastolic pressure, oxygen saturation, resting heart rate, respiratory rate), and 6mWT. Participants were split into nine age groups and separated by 1-year intervals. Hip flexors-controlled for sex, age, and height-explained a meaningful percentage of the variance (R=2 0.45; p< 0.001) for 6mWT distance, and the resting heart rate explained a change in R2 of only 2% (p= 0.008). Isometric strength of hip flexors explained ∼ 50% of the 6mWT distance, suggesting the importance of strength from an early age. Other factors, such as cardiovascular parameters, while relevant, may exert a secondary role on youth's capacity.

Exploring the Relationship between Muscular Strength, Flexibility, and mSEBT Test Performance in Saudi Arabian Women

Saudi females exhibit a higher susceptibility to musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), particularly impacting balance, in comparison to their male counterparts. The current study was aimed at determining the association between the modified Star Excursion Balancing Test (mSEBT) score and the muscular strength and flexibility of the lower-extremity muscles among a group of young healthy Saudi females. The mSEBT assessed balance, complemented by measurements of lower-extremity muscle strength and flexibility. Statistical analysis, utilizing SPSS software (version 26.0), with a significance level of p &lt; 0.05, unveiled valuable insights. Results indicate a moderate positive correlation between hip flexor strength and reach distance, notably in the anterior and posteromedial directions. Conversely, no statistically significant associations emerged between hip extensor, hip abductor, or knee extensor strength and reach distances across all directions. Furthermore, there were weak negative correlations between hip flexion angle (assessed via the Thomas test) and reach distances, primarily within the anterior direction. Interestingly, the sit-and-reach flexibility test demonstrated no significant correlations with reach distances. These findings underscore the role of hip flexor strength and flexibility in influencing mSEBT performance in young, healthy Saudi females. This study advocates for the incorporation of the mSEBT as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool for identifying individuals with deficits in lower extremity muscle strength and flexibility.

Determinants and Characterization of Locomotion in Adults with Late-Onset Pompe Disease: New Clinical Biomarkers.

The late-onset form of Pompe disease (LOPD) is characterized by muscle weakness, locomotor limitations and a risk of falls. The mechanisms responsible for altered locomotion in adults with LOPD are unknown. The identification of clinical biomarkers is essential for clinical follow-up and research. To identify muscle determinants of impaired locomotor performance, gait stability and gait pattern, and biomechanical determinants of falls in adults with LOPD. In this cross-sectional, case-control study, LOPD and control participants underwent 3D gait analysis, locomotor performance tests and muscle strength measurements (isokinetic dynamometer). We explored the muscular determinants of locomotor performance (gait speed, 6-minute walk test distance and timed up and go test), gait stability (spatiotemporal gait variables) and the gait pattern. We also explored biomechanical gait determinants of falls. After intergroup comparisons, determinants were sought to use forward stepwise multiple regression. Eighteen participants with LOPD and 20 control participants were included. Locomotor performance, gait stability, and the gait pattern were significantly altered in LOPD compared to control participants. Hip abductor strength was the main common determinant of locomotor performance, gait stability and pelvic instability. Hip flexor strength was the main determinant of abnormal gait kinematics at the hip and knee. Percentage duration of single support phase during the gait cycle was the main determinant of falls. Hip abductor strength and percentage duration of single support during gait were the major determinants of locomotor performance, gait stability, falls and the gait pattern in LOPD. These new clinical biomarkers should therefore be systematically assessed using instrumented tools to improve the follow-up of adults with LOPD. They should also be considered in future studies to accurately assess the effects of new therapies. Hip abductor strength and single support phase should also be priority targets for rehabilitation.

Effects of Isotonic Core Exercise with Weight Loss on Low Back Pain, Core Strength and Balance in Obese Middle-Aged Women

PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the effects of concurrent core exercises and weight loss on lower back pain, core muscle strength, and balance in middle-aged obese women.METHODS: Eighteen middle-aged obese women were randomly assigned to the core exercise with weight loss (CE+WL, n=6), core exercise (CE, n=6), and control (CON, n=6) groups. Moreover, CE was conducted for 60 minutes, three times a week for 8 weeks, with a weight loss goal of approximately 0.5-1 kg per week. All participants underwent measurements of body composition (weight, body mass index, percentage body fat, muscle mass, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), low back pain (visual analogue scale [VAS]), core muscle strength (hip flexor), and balance (sensory organization, reaction time, and motor control)) before the experiment, at 4 and 8 weeks.RESULTS: A significant decrease in WHR was observed at 4 and 8 weeks of exercise compared to that before exercise in both the CE+WL and CE groups (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt;&lt;.05). Additionally, VAS scores significantly decreased at 4 and 8 weeks compared to those before exercise in the CE+WL group and a decrease was observed at 8 weeks in the CE group (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt;&lt;.05). Hip flexor strength significantly increased at 8 weeks of exercise compared to that before exercise in the CE+WL group (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt;&lt;.05). Furthermore, hip flexor strength also significantly increased at 4 and 8 weeks in the CE group (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt;&lt;.05). Sensory organization significantly increased at C2 after 8 weeks of exercise compared with that before exercise in the CE+WL group (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt;&lt;.05).CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggested that combining CE with WL concurrently leads to improvements in WHR, back pain, hip flexor strength, and sensory organization in middle-aged obese women.

Effects of Femoral Head Anterior Glide Fixation during Active Straight Leg Raise on Hip Flexor Strength in Subjects with Femoral Anterior Glide Type

Effects of Femoral Head Anterior Glide Fixation during Active Straight Leg Raise on Hip Flexor Strength in Subjects with Femoral Anterior Glide Type

Effects of Pilates on Pain, Physical Function, Sleep Quality, and Psychological Factors in Young Women with Dysmenorrhea: A Preliminary Randomized Controlled Study.

The effect of Pilates on dysmenorrhea has been little studied. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of Pilates on menstrual pain and symptoms, premenstrual syndrome, and risk factors of dysmenorrhea. Thirty young women with primary dysmenorrhea were randomly assigned into a Pilates group (PG; n = 15) and a waitlist control group (CG; n = 15). The Pilates was performed twice a week for 12 weeks. Menstrual pain and symptoms were measured by visual analogue scale (VAS) and the Cox menstrual symptom scale (CMSS), respectively. Premenstrual syndrome was assessed using the premenstrual symptoms screening tool (PSST). Additionally, back flexibility, hip muscle strength, sleep duration and quality, perceived stress, state-trait anxiety, and depression were evaluated. The VAS, CMSS severity and frequency, and PSST symptoms and functional impairments decreased in the PG compared to the CG (p < 0.001 or p < 0.01) with large effect sizes. Back flexibility and the strength of hip flexors, hip extensors, and hip abductors significantly increased in the PG compared to the CG (all p < 0.01) with large effect sizes. Sleep quality (p < 0.01) and stress (p < 0.05) improved in the PG. Sleep duration, anxiety, and depression did not change in either group. In conclusion, the 12-week Pilates intervention ameliorates dysmenorrhea, partly mediated by improved physical function and sleep quality.

Dynamometric Strength Profile of Hip Muscles in Youth Soccer Players.

Soccer is the most widely practiced sport in the world, demanding high-speed activities such as jumps, sprints and changes of direction. Therefore, having optimal levels of muscle strength improves performance and reduces the injury rate. The objectives of our study were (i) to determine the dynamometric profile of hip muscle strength in young soccer players by position, evaluated at different isokinetic speeds, (ii) to describe the conventional and functional unilateral muscle strength ratios, (iii) to analyze the bilateral balance. Thirty-seven male soccer players (age 17.02 ± 0.92 years) participated in the study. Strength assessment was performed with a functional electromechanical dynamometer, and concentric and eccentric strength of abductors, adductors, extensors and hip flexors were measured bilaterally at 0.5 m/s and 1 m/s. For eccentric right hip abduction at 0.5 m/s, defenders are significantly stronger than midfielders (p = 0.013) and stronger than forwards (p = 0.140). For eccentric right hip adduction at 0.5 m/s, defenders are significantly stronger than midfielders (p = 0.005) and stronger than forwards (p = 0.253), as for eccentric right hip adduction at 1 m/s, defenders are significantly stronger than midfielders (p = 0.014) and stronger than forwards (p = 0.084). There is a significant effect for the conventional strength ratio of left abduction/adduction at 1 m/s. The conventional strength ratio of forwards is significantly higher than that of defenders (p = 0.045) and higher than that of midfielders (p = 0.152). Concentric and eccentric hip strength values differ according to playing position.

Dismantling the structural ageism of ‘ageing in place’ to ensure ‘ageing in the right place’

Dismantling the structural ageism of ‘ageing in place’ to ensure ‘ageing in the right place’

Eight-week virtual reality training improves lower extremity muscle strength but not balance in adolescents with intellectual disability: A randomized controlled trial.

Purpose: This study aims to assess the effects of 8-week virtual reality (VR) training on balance and lower extremity muscle strength in adolescents with intellectual disability (ID). Methods: Thirty adolescents with intellectual disability were randomly divided into the virtual reality group and control group. The participants in the virtual reality group and the control group received the virtual reality training and the physical education (PE) course, respectively, for 8weeks. The Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed Up and Go (TUG) test and lower extremity muscle strength were measured before and after the training. Results: The between-group results showed that the participants in the virtual reality group increased the muscle strength of hip flexors (p < 0.001), hip extensors (p = 0.002), hip abductors (p < 0.001), knee flexors (p < 0.001), knee extensors (p = 0.002) and ankle plantar flexors (p = 0.042) significantly after training, compared to the control group. However, no significant improvement was found in the berg balance scale and timed up and go scores between the virtual reality group and control group after training (p > 0.05). The within-group results showed that the strength of all the muscle groups significantly increased after training in the virtual reality group (p < 0.05) compared to the baseline. However, no significant difference was found in the muscle strength in the control group before and after training. The within-group berg balance scale and timed up and go scores showed no significant improvements in both groups. Conclusion: Virtual reality training intervention might be effective in improving the lower extremity muscle strength, but no significant improvement was found on balance ability in adolescents with intellectual disability.

Contribution of Different Impairments to Restricted Knee Flexion during Gait in Individuals with Cerebral Palsy.

The coexistence of overlapping impairments modulates the knee pattern in the swing phase of walking in children with cerebral palsy (CP). The impact and contribution of each impairment to the reduction of knee range-of-motion is unknown. The aim of the study was to establish the gradation of the impact of individual coexisting impairments on the knee flexion range-of-motion. Passive range-of-motion, selective motor control, strength, and spasticity from 132 patients (Male = 76, Female = 56, age:11 ± 4 years) with spastic CP were tested with clinical tools. Knee flexion range-of-motion at terminal stance, pre-swing, and initial swing phases were assessed by gait analysis. Hypertonia (β = −5.75) and weakness (β = 2.76) of knee extensors were associated with lower range of knee flexion (R2 = 0.0801, F = 11.0963, p < 0.0001). The predictive factors (R2 = 0.0744, F = 7.2135, p < 0.0001) were strength (β = 4.04) and spasticity (β = −2.74) of knee extensors and strength of hip flexors (β = −2.01); in swing those were knee extensors hypertonia (β = −2.55) and passive range of flexion (β = 0.16) (R2 = 0.0398, F = 3.4010, p = 0.01). Hypertonia of knee extensors has the strongest impact on knee flexion range-of-motion; secondary is the strength of knee extensors. The knee extensors strength with knee extensors hypertonia and strength of hip flexors contributes in stance. Knee extensors hypertonia with passive knee flexion range-of-motion contributes in swing.