Isometric Exercise Research Articles

Endothelial Dysfunction in Youth-Onset Type 2 Diabetes: A Clinical Translational Study.

Youth-onset type 2 diabetes (Y-T2D) is associated with increased risk for coronary atherosclerotic disease, but the timing of the earliest pathological features and evidence of cardiac endothelial dysfunction have not been evaluated in this population. Endothelial function magnetic resonance imaging may detect early and direct endothelial dysfunction in the absence of classical risk factors (severe hyperglycemia, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia). Using endothelial function magnetic resonance imaging, we evaluated peripheral and coronary artery structure and endothelial function in young adults with Y-T2D diagnosed ≤5 years compared with age-matched healthy peers. We isolated and characterized plasma-derived small extracellular vesicles and evaluated their effects on inflammatory and signaling biomarkers in healthy human coronary artery endothelial cells to validate the imaging findings. Right coronary wall thickness, coronary artery flow-mediated dilation, and brachial artery flow-mediated dilation were measured at baseline and during isometric handgrip exercise using a 3.0T magnetic resonance imaging. Human coronary artery endothelial cells were treated with Y-T2D plasma-derived small extracellular vesicles. Protein expression was measured by Western blot analysis, oxidative stress was measured using the redox-sensitive probe dihydroethidium, and nitric oxide levels were measured by 4-amino-5-methylamino-2',7'-difluororescein diacetate. Y-T2D (n=20) had higher hemoglobin A1c and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, but similar total and LDL (low-density lipoprotein)-cholesterol compared with healthy peers (n=16). Y-T2D had greater coronary wall thickness (1.33±0.13 versus 1.22±0.13 mm; P=0.04) and impaired endothelial function: lower coronary artery flow-mediated dilation (-3.1±15.5 versus 15.9±17.3%; P<0.01) and brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (6.7±14.7 versus 26.4±15.2%; P=0.001). Y-T2D plasma-derived small extracellular vesicles reduced phosphorylated endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression and nitric oxide levels, increased reactive oxygen species production, and elevated ICAM (intercellular adhesion molecule)-mediated inflammatory pathways in human coronary artery endothelial cells. Coronary and brachial endothelial dysfunction was evident in Y-T2D who were within 5 years of diagnosis and did not have severe hyperglycemia or dyslipidemia. Plasma-derived small extracellular vesicles induced markers of endothelial dysfunction, which corroborated accelerated subclinical coronary atherosclerosis as an early feature in Y-T2D. URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT02830308 and NCT01399385.

Dynamic and Static Workout of In Vitro Skeletal Muscle Tissue through a Weight Training Device.

Enhancing muscle strength through workouts is a key factor inimproving physical activity and maintaining metabolic profiles. The controversial results concerning the impacts of weight training often arise from clinical experiments that require controlled experimental conditions. In this study, a weight training system for a muscle development model is presented, which is capable of performing weight training motions with adjustable weight loads. Through the implementation of cultured skeletal muscle tissue with floating structures and a flexible ribbon, both isotonic (dynamic change in muscle length) and isometric (static in muscle length) exercises can be performed without the deflection of the tissue. Quantitative analysis of contraction force, changes in metabolic processes, and muscle morphology under different weight training conditions demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed system. Our proposed system holds potential for establishing effective muscle development and for further applications in rehabilitation training methods.

Acute effects of breaking up sitting time with isometric exercise on cognition in healthy adults

The aim of this study was to analyze the acute effects of different sitting break strategies on cognition in healthy adults. Twelve physically inactive adults (8 women, 28 ± 9 years; 25.10 ± 4.90 kg/m²) randomly completed three 3 hour conditions: 2-min isometric leg extension exercise sitting breaks at 30% of maximal voluntary contraction every 30-min; 2-min light-intensity walking sitting breaks every 30-min; sitting without breaks. Stroop and Eriksen Flanker tests were used to measure cognition before and after conditions. Generalized estimated equations were used to analyze cognition responses. Data are presented as mean ± standard deviation. Stroop congruent phase decreased for all conditions (Isometric: 1.56 ± 0.20s Pre vs 1.49 ± 0.12s Post; Walking: 1.67 ± 0.22s Pre vs 1.54 ± 0.19s Post; Control: 1.69 ± 0.24s Pre vs 1.59 ± 0.26s Post; p = 0.044). There were no significant effects on Stroop incongruent phase, Stroop effect, or Eriksen-Flanker (p &gt; 0.05 for all). In conclusion, walking or isometric exercise sitting breaks do not acutely improve cognition in healthy adults.

Experiences, acceptability and feasibility of an isometric exercise intervention for stage 1 hypertension: embedded qualitative study in a randomised controlled feasibility trial

BackgroundHealthy lifestyle changes for patients with stage 1 hypertension are recommended before antihypertensive medication. Exercise has antihypertensive benefits; however, low adoption and high attrition are common. Patients need easily adoptable, effective and manageable exercise interventions that can be sustained for life. We present participant and stakeholder perceptions of an isometric exercise intervention for stage 1 hypertension delivered in the National Health Service (NHS, UK).MethodsAn embedded qualitative study within a randomised-controlled feasibility study included intervention arm participants (n = 10), healthcare professionals from participating NHS sites (n = 3) and non-participating NHS sites (n = 5) taking part in semi-structured interviews to explore feasibility of delivering an isometric exercise intervention within the study design and an NHS context. Data was analysed using reflective thematic analysis.ResultsThree themes were identified: study deliverability; motivators and barriers; support for study participation. Findings indicated that the study was well designed. Health benefits, unwillingness to take medication, altruism and interest in the study helped motivation and adherence. Study support received was good, but healthcare professionals were insecure in intervention delivery with regular training/supervision needed. Perception of health improvement was mixed, but, in some, uptake of wider lifestyle changes resulted from participation. Stakeholders felt that current service challenges/demand would make implementation challenging.ConclusionsDespite participant positivity, delivery of an isometric intervention in an NHS setting was considered challenging given the current service demand, although possible with robust effectiveness evidence. Findings support further effectiveness data and implementation development of the isometric exercise intervention.Trial registrationISRCTN, ISRCTN13472393. Registered 18 September 2020.

Effect of Isometric Resistance Training and Kinesio-Taping on Rotator Cuff Muscle Injuries Among Club-Level Fast Bowlers

Background: Background: Rotator cuff injuries are common among club-level fast bowlers, leading to pain, weakness, and reduced performance. Effective rehabilitation strategies are crucial for enhancing recovery and preventing re-injury.Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of isometric resistance training (IRT) combined with Kinesio-Taping (KT) in managing grade II rotator cuff muscle injuries among club-level fast bowlers.Methods: A total of 20 male fast bowlers with grade II rotator cuff injuries were randomly assigned to either a control group (n=10) or an experimental group (n=10). The experimental group underwent an 8-week rehabilitation protocol combining IRT and KT, while the control group received no specific intervention. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included the Western Ontario Rotator Cuff (WORC) questionnaire, physiotherapeutic tests, range of motion (ROM) measurements using a digital goniometer, and muscle strength evaluations through manual muscle testing. Data were analyzed using paired sample t-tests via SPSS version 25.Results: The experimental group showed significant improvements in ROM (mean difference = -0.850, p=0.000) and muscle strength across all physiotherapeutic tests (e.g., Lift-Off Test, mean difference = 1.320, p=0.000), compared to the control group.Conclusion: The combined use of IRT and KT significantly improved shoulder function, ROM, and muscle strength in fast bowlers with rotator cuff injuries. These findings support the inclusion of these interventions in sports rehabilitation protocols.

Breaking up Sitting Time With Isometric Wall Squat Exercise During Occupational Activities: A Feasibility Randomized Trial.

The aim of to analyze the feasibility of isometric wall squat exercise (IWSE) over a 12-week period as a method of breaking up sitting time during occupational activities in sedentary adults. This feasibility randomized study involved sedentary adults. Participants in the IWSE group ( n = 12) performed isometric wall squats, while participants in the STAND group ( n = 12) were recommended to stand up for 12 weeks. Feasibility was assessed through online questionnaires in the eighth week regarding adherence, safety, satisfaction, and acceptability. Adherence to weekly breaks was similar between groups ( P > 0.05). No serious side effects have been reported in the groups. Dropout rates (IWSE: 40% vs STAND: 40%, P = 1.000), satisfaction (IWSE +3.4 [1.2] vs STAND +3.0 [1.7], P = 0.709), and intention to continue with the intervention (IWSE: 75% vs STAND: 83%, P = 0.368) were similar between groups. The IWSE is as feasible as stand up as a strategy to breaking up sedentary time in workplace.

Examining the Effects of Dynamic and Isometric Resistance Training on Knee Joint Kinetics During Unplanned Sidesteps in Elite Female Athletes.

Kadlec, D, Jordan, MJ, Alderson, J, and Nimphius, S. Examining the effects of dynamic and isometric resistance training on knee joint kinetics during unplanned sidesteps in elite female athletes. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2024-The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a 4-week block of isometric (isometricRT) and dynamic resistance training (dynamicRT) on kinetic variables associated with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury risk during unplanned sidesteps in elite female athletes. Twenty-one elite female athletes competing for a women's international rugby union team were recruited with 15 (n = 15; age: 23.4 ± 4.7 years; 170.7 ± 8.4 cm; 84.4 ± 15.4 kg) completing assessment of knee flexion moment, knee valgus moment (KVM), knee internal rotation moment (KIRM), knee joint power during unplanned sidesteps, and lower limb strength before and after a 4-week intervention. Linear mixed effects models and one-dimensional statistical parametric mapping assessed the effect of the interventions. Statistical significance was set at α = 0.05. Postintervention the isometricRT group revealed reduced peak KVM during early stance (p = 0.04) while the dynamicRT group decreased peak KIRM (p < 0.01) and KIRM over 8.8-86.6% (p < 0.01) and 96.9-98.5% (p = 0.047). An exploratory combined group analysis revealed reductions in KVM over 7.9-21.8% (p = 0.002) and in KIRM over 8.3-90.5% (p < 0.01) and 96.2-98.5% (p = 0.046). Most lower limb isometric and dynamic strength measures increased after both resistance training interventions. Overall, both groups increased lower-body maximum strength while reducing kinetic knee joint variables associated with ACL injury risk during unplanned sidesteps. These results highlight the importance of increasing single-joint and multijoint strength in female athletes to mitigate the mechanical knee joint demands during sidestepping.

Pengaruh Isometric Handgrip Exercise terhadap Tekanan Darah pada Lansia dengan Hipertensi di Desa Gringging Kabupaten Sragen

Background: The prevalence of hypertension in Indonesia in 2021 reached 34.1% or more than 70 million people, and in Central Java in 2021 hypertension patients reached 37.57%. One of the interventions that supports is isometric handgrip exercise, to reduce blood pressure. Objective: To determine the effect of isometric handgrip exercise on blood pressure in elderly with hypertension in Gringging Village, Sragen Regency. Methods: The type of research is quantitative, the research method uses Pre-Exsperiment with One Group Pre Test-Post Test design. Using nonprobability sampling technique with purposive sampling method. Sampling as many as 15 respondents. The research instrument uses a sphygmomanometer. Data analysis with wilcoxon test. Results: in the study isometric handgrip exercise was given for 5 consecutive days with a time of 3 minutes and each hand got 2 contractions with a duration of 45 seconds per contraction. The results of the Wilcoxon test obtained a p-value of 0.000 &lt;0.05. Conclusion: There is a significant effect of isometric handgrip exercise on blood pressure in elderly with hypertension in Gringging Village, Sragen Regency.

The effects of core muscle fatigue on lower limbs and trunk during single-leg drop landing: A comparison between recreational runners with and without dynamic knee valgus

BackgroundA deficit in neuromuscular trunk control can impact the lower limb motion, predisposing runners to injuries. This deficit may show a greater impact on runners with dynamic knee valgus. This study aimed to compare the effect of core fatigue on kinetic, kinematic, and electromyographic parameters of the trunk and lower limbs during single-leg drop landing between runners with and without dynamic knee valgus. MethodsTwenty-seven recreational runners were allocated to the valgus (n = 14) and non-valgus groups (n = 13). They performed the test before and after a fatigue protocol, taking a step forward and landing on the force platform while maintaining balance. The fatigue protocol included isometric and dynamic exercises performed consecutively until voluntary exhaustion. The vertical ground reaction force, the sagittal and frontal plane angles, and the electromyographic activity were evaluated. The integral of electromyographic activity was calculated into three movement phases. ANOVA with repeated measures was used to verify the group, time, and interaction effects. ResultsAfter fatigue, both groups showed a significant reduction in the minimum (p = 0.01) and maximum (p = 0.02) knee angles in the frontal plane (more dynamic knee valgus) and greater gluteus medius activity (p = 0.05) from the peak of knee flexion to the end of the movement. The valgus group had a greater hip excursion (p = 0.01) and vertical linear shoulder displacement (p = 0.02) than the non-valgus. ConclusionOur results suggest that core fatigue can impact the local muscle and the distal joint and that the groups presented different strategies to deal with the demand during landing.

Effect of Valuka Swedana Followed by Greeva Basti Along with Physiotherapy and Abha Guggulu in the Management of Asthigata Vata (Cervical Spondylosis)

Aging and degeneration are natural course of life, but in this modern era the advancement of technologies and busy life style contribute to the early degeneration process. Improper continuous postures, jerky movements while travelling, overuse of mobiles etc. will produce undue pressure and stress to the cervical disc and it will lead to inflammatory reaction and eventually degeneration. Cervical spondylosis caused by wear and tear phenomena in cervical spine. It is most frequently involved in the cartilage and bones of the cervical spine and causes loss of normal spine function. According to Ayurvedic perspectives cervical spondylosis can be correlated with Asthigata Vata. A female patient age 23yrs., diagnosed and non-operated case of Cervical spondylosis (19/07/2023 OPD NO.27393, IPD NO. 2150) came to Panchakarma OPD of ITRA, Jamnagar with complaints of pain at nape of neck radiating to right upper limb (Greeva Shoola) since last 5yrs along with restricted ROM of neck (Greeva Stambha) and difficulty in doing daily activities such as reading, etc. The pain aggravated in prolonged reading and morning. She was treated with Valuka Swedana for 3 days followed by Greeva Basti with Ksheera Bala Taila 14 days along with physiotherapy (isometric exercise of neck) and Abha Guggulu. Significant improvements were observed in various subjective and objective parameters after the treatment.

Effects of Isometric Hold Exercise with Passive Terminal Knee Extension in Restoring Quadriceps Function after ACL Reconstruction – Research design and methods

Effects of Isometric Hold Exercise with Passive Terminal Knee Extension in Restoring Quadriceps Function after ACL Reconstruction – Research design and methods

Effect of 10-week Isometric handgrip exercise at home on hemodynamic and psychological factors of sedentary hypertensive women during COVID-19

Background and Objective: COVID-19 poses significant public health threats and impacts physical activity, particularly in hypertensive patients. The aim of this study is to examine the ten weeks of isometric handgrip exercise impact on hypertensive women during quarantine. Methods: thirty female volunteers with high blood pressure participated in this randomized controlled trial study. The isometric handgrip (IHG) exercise group performed the exercise for ten weeks (3 sessions per week, 4x2 min isometric contractions at 30% MVC, separated by 2 minutes rest) via video call at home, and the control group had no exercise program. The blood pressure (systolic, diastolic, and mean), heart rate, and myocardial oxygen consumption were measured before and after exercise program; DASS21 and quality of life (Sf-36) questionnaires were then completed by the participants. Results: Systolic, diastolic, and mean blood pressure showed a significant decrease (5 mmHg, 2 mmHg, respectively); quality of life and DASS21 scores showed a significant improvement after IHG exercise compared to the control (p &lt; .05). Conclusion: IHG exercise activity at home is highly effective and useful for improving blood pressure and quality of life of hypertensive women, and it is also a treatment option to reduce stress, depression and anxiety due to COVID-19.

The cardiovascular exercise response in children with overweight or obesity measured by cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging.

Overweight and obesity are among the main causes of cardiovascular diseases. Exercise testing can aid in the early detection of subtle cardiac dysfunction not present in rest. We hypothesized that the cardiovascular response to exercise is impaired among children with overweight or obesity, characterized by the inability of the cardiovascular system to adapt to exercise by increasing cardiac volumes and blood pressure. We performed a cardiovascular stress test to investigate whether the cardiovascular exercise response is altered in children with overweight and obesity, as compared to children with a normal weight. A subgroup of the Generation R population-based prospective cohort study, consisting of 41 children with overweight or obesity and 166 children with a normal weight with a mean age of 16 years, performed an isometric exercise. Continuous heart rate and blood pressure were measured during rest, exercise and recovery. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) measurements were performed during rest and exercise. Higher BMI was associated with a higher resting systolic and diastolic blood pressure (difference: 0.24 SDS (95% CI 0.10, 0.37) and 0.20 SDS (95% CI 0.06, 0.33)) and lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure increases from rest to peak exercise (-0.11 SDS (95% CI -0.20, -0.03) and -0.07 SDS (95% CI -0.07, -0.01)). BMI was also associated with a slower decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure during recovery (p values < 0.05). Higher childhood BMI was associated with lower BSA corrected left ventricular mass, end-diastolic volume and stroke volume (p values < 0.05). There were no associations of childhood BMI with the cardiac response to exercise measured by heart rate and CMR measurements. Childhood BMI is, across the full range, associated with a blunted blood pressure response to static exercise but there were no differences in cardiac response to exercise. Our findings suggest that adiposity may especially affect the vascular exercise reaction without affecting cardiac response.

A Characterization of the Cardiac Physiology and Aortic Pulse Wave Properties of Artistic Swimmers Across Competitive Levels.

The distinct physical and environmental stressors of artistic swimming (previously termed synchronized swimming) result in unique hemodynamic stimuli. Given that the hemodynamic stress associated with participation in an exercise modality drives adaptation of the heart and central vasculature, artistic swimming may produce a distinct cardiovascular phenotype. Presumably, athletes competing at the highest levels also have greater training exposure and, thus, exhibit more adaptation. The purpose of this study was to characterize cardiovascular form and function across the competitive spectrum of artistic swimmers. Cardiovascular structure and function were compared in a cross-sectional study of healthy controls, varsity, and elite artistic swimmers, using pulse wave analysis, pulse wave velocity, and echocardiographic images both at rest and during isometric handgrip exercise. Aortic stiffness was similar across all groups, as were characteristics of the decomposed aortic pressure waveform. At rest, both varsity and elite swimmers demonstrated similar systolic function compared to controls. However, peak left ventricular twist was greater in varsity and elites (controls: 8.0 ± 3.9, varsity: 12.8 ± 8.6, elites: 13.4 ± 3.9; both p < 0.02). Furthermore, elites demonstrated greater peak left ventricular radial strain (controls: 29.2 ± 9.9, varsity: 32.5 ± 10.3, elites: 53.9 ± 15.1; both p < 0.001) and longitudinal strain (controls: -16.9 ± 1.6, varsity: -16.5 ± 1.8, elites: -19.5 ± 3.2; both p < 0.04). In contrast to controls, both varsity and elite artistic swimmers demonstrated no change in peak late diastolic transmitral filling velocity (controls: Δ0.2 ± 0.04 m/s, varsity: Δ0.06 ± 0.04 m/s, elites: Δ0.05 ± 0.04 m/s) during isometric handgrip exercise (both p > 0.05), with elites demonstrating lower peak velocity than varsity swimmers, (p = 0.048) indicating preservation of diastolic function. Artistic swimmers demonstrate distinct cardiac physiology at rest and during isometric handgrip, with a greater extent of distinguishing features observed in those competing at the highest level of competition.

Characteristics associated with responsiveness to isometric handgrip training in medicated hypertensive patients: secondary data analysis.

Isometric handgrip training (IHT) has been shown to reduce blood pressure (BP) in hypertensive patients. However, factors that predict responsiveness to IHT are largely unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the patient characteristics associated with the antihypertensive response to IHT using a recommended statistical approach for evaluating interindividual responses. Data from four randomized controlled trials were combined, totaling 81 patients undergoing IHT (48.8% women; 60 ± 11 years) and 90 control patients (45.6% women; 62 ± 12 years). IHT consisted of 4 × 2 min isometric contractions at 30% of maximal voluntary contraction, performed three times/week for 8-12 weeks. BP was measured at baseline and following IHT and control interventions. The interindividual variation was assessed by the standard deviation of the individual responses (SD ir ), and linear regression analyses were conducted to explore response predictors. IHT significantly decreased both SBP (-5.4; 95% confidence interval (CI) -9.5 to -1.3 mmHg) and DBP (-2.8; 95% CI -5.1 to -0.6 mmHg). The interindividual variation of BP change was moderate for systolic (SD ir = 5.2 mmHg, 0.30 standardized units) and low for diastolic (SD ir = 1.7 mmHg, 0.15 standardized units). Sex, age, and BMI were not associated with the antihypertensive effect of IHT. However, a higher baseline SBP ( b = -0.467, P < 0.001) and absence of dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers use ( b = 0.340, P = 0.001) were associated with greater BP reductions. IHT reduced BP in medicated hypertensive patients regardless of age, sex, and BMI. Patients with a higher baseline SBP and those not prescribed dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers were more responsive to IHT.

Comparison of Force, Neuromuscular, and Metabolic Responses During Sustained, Isometric Handgrip Holds to Failure Anchored to Low and High Perceptual Intensities in Men: An Exploratory Study.

Kwak, M, Succi, PJ, Benitez, B, Mitchinson, C, Samaan, MA, Abel, MG, and Bergstrom, HC. Comparison of force, neuromuscular, and metabolic responses during sustained, isometric handgrip holds to failure anchored to low and high perceptual intensities in men: An exploratory study. J Strength Cond Res 38(8): e405-e416, 2024-This study examined the responses of force alterations, relative to critical force (CF), neuromuscular parameters, and muscle oxygenation (SmO2) for isometric handgrip holds to failure (HTF) anchored to ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) of 3 and 7. Twelve men completed pre-maximal voluntary isometric contractions (pre-MVIC), submaximal HTF at 4 percentages of pre-MVIC, HTF at RPE = 3 and 7, and post-MVIC. Mechanomyograpic (MMG) signals and SmO2 were recorded during the RPE HTF. Analyses included paired-samples t-tests and repeated-measures ANOVAs at an alpha level of p ≤ 0.05. Time to task failure was not different between RPE 3 (478.7 ± 196.6 s) and RPE 7 (495.8 ± 173.8 s). Performance fatigability (PF) and MMG amplitude (AMP) were greater for RPE 7 (PF: 37.9 ± 12.9%; MMG AMP: 15.7 ± 7.4% MVIC) than RPE 3 (PF: 30.0 ± 14.5%; MMG AMP: 10.2 ± 6.5% MVIC), but MMG mean power frequency (MPF) was greater for RPE 3 (146.2 ± 31.1% MVIC) than RPE 7 (128.8 ± 23.0% MVIC). There were RPE-dependent decreases in force (p ≤ 0.01) across 3 discernable phases during the HTF. There were decreases in MMG AMP across time for both RPEs, but there were no significant changes in MMG MPF or SmO2. There were overall similar motor unit control strategies and local metabolic demand between RPEs. The majority of the HTF performed below CF at RPE 3 and 7 indicated CF did not reflect the highest sustainable force. When prescribing isometric exercise anchored to RPE, practitioners should be aware of the magnitude of force loss and relative intensity of the task to be sure desired training loads are met.

Acute effects of voluntary isometric contractions at maximal shortening vs. ballistic stretching on flexibility, strength and jump.

Isometric training is used in sport, conventional physical activity and rehabilitation. Understandably, there is a great deal of research related to its effect on performance. It is known that the length of the muscle at the moment of contraction is a determinant of strength levels. In the literature we find research on isometric training in short muscle lengths, although it has not been studied in maximally shortened positions or the acute effects that occur after its application. Ballistic stretching (BS) is also popular in sport. Their execution involves actively reaching maximally shortened muscle positions. So far, isometric training has not been compared with protocols involving ballistic stretching. Considering the above, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of BS and voluntary isometric contraction at maximal shortening (VICAMS) on range of motion, strength and vertical jump. The study involved 60 healthy, physically active individuals (40 and 52 years old) who were randomly assigned to three groups: BS, VICAMS and a control group (CG). To assess acute effects, before and after the intervention, active range of motion (AROM), maximal voluntary isometric force (MVIF) and countermovement jump height (CMJ) were determined. Time main effects and time*group interactions were found for all variables (p < 0.001). Between-group differences were shown for the VICAMS group after the intervention, with statistically significant higher AROM values compared to the other groups. MVIF values were also higher in the VICAMS group. Intra-group differences were observed for the VICAMS and Ballistic groups, as values on all variables increased from baseline. For the CMJ, intra-group differences showed that both the VICAMS and BS groups improved values compared to baseline values. The application of VICAMS induced acute improvements over BS in AROM, MVIF and CMJ. These results are important for coaches seeking immediate performance improvement and offer an optimal solution to the warm-up protocol.

Bone-cartilage transfer for osteochondritis dissecans of the humeral capitellum

Treatment of focal cartilage defects of the humeral capitellum with autologous bone-cartilage cylinders to prevent development of arthritis of the elbow joint. High-grade, unstable lesions (> 50% of the capitellum, gradeIII-IV according to Dipaola), including those involving the lateral edge of the capitellum and with adepth of up to 15 mm. Stable lesions and generalized osteochondritis of the capitellum (including Panner's disease), as well as arelative contraindication for lesions > 10 mm, as the largest punch has amaximum diameter of 10 mm. Arthroscopy of the elbow joint, transition to open surgery. First, the size of the cartilage defect in the capitellum is determined. Then, one (or several) osteochondral cylinders (OATS Arthex) are removed, which as far as possible completely encompass the defect zone. Corresponding intact bone-cartilage cylinders are obtained from the ipsilateral proximal lateral femoral condyle, each with a0.3 mm larger diameter via an additive miniarthrotomy. The "healthy" cylinders are then inserted into the defect zone in a"press fit" technique. An upper arm cast in neutral position of the hand for 10-14days, simultaneously beginning physiotherapy (active-assisted movements) and lymphatic drainage. As soon as painless range of motion (ROM) is restored (goal: by week6), isometric training can be started. Resistance training starts from week12. Competitive sports are only recommended after 6(-8) months. The current state of research on the surgical treatment of OCD of the humeral capitellum using autologous osteochondral grafts shows mostly promising results. Arecent meta-analysis of 24studies reports asignificantly higher (p < 0.01) rate of return to sports (94%) compared to fragment fixation (64%) or microfracture and debridement (71%) [41]. However, the increased donor-site morbidity must be taken into account (ca. 7.8%).

Rate of Torque Development Scaling Factor Decreased following a 6-Week Unilateral Isometric Training Using Electrostimulation or Voluntary Contractions

Rate of Torque Development Scaling Factor Decreased following a 6-Week Unilateral Isometric Training Using Electrostimulation or Voluntary Contractions

Innovative Physiotherapy Approaches in Managing Patellar Tendinopathy (Jumper’s Knee): An Updated Literature Review

Introduction: Patellar tendinopathy (jumper's knee) is an overuse injury that usually has a gradual onset of pain. This condition is common in jumping athletes, characterized by local pain at the attachment of the proximal tendon to the bone and dysfunction of the patellar tendon during jumping and landing. Patellar tendinopathy clinically results from high loads on the tendon, such as jumping and changing direction. Patellar tendinopathy can affect health and quality of life by limiting participation in sports and activities for athletes. Objective: This study aims to summarize secondary data related to physiotherapy management of patellar tendinopathy. Methods: The research method used is a literature study using secondary data in the form of journals related to the topic of patellar tendinopathy (jumper's knee) obtained through Google Scholar, Science Direct, and PubMed. Results: From five recent journal articles obtained with various physiotherapy intervention protocols, the results were able to reduce symptoms in patients with patellar tendinopathy. Conclusion: Physiotherapeutic interventions such as progressive tendon-loading exercises (PTLE), Eccentric exercise programmes, Kinesio-tape® and isometric exercises are effective in reducing symptoms in patients with patellar tendinopathy. Keyword: patellar tendinopathy, jumper's knee, physiotherapy