Muscle Strength Parameters Research Articles

Analysis of elbow muscle strength parameters in Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioners

ABSTRACTUpper-body dynamic and isometric maximum strength are essential components for success in Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ). This study was aimed at analysing strength parameters in the elbow flexor and extensor muscles of BJJ practitioners. Participants (n = 28) performed maximum isometric contractions of elbow flexors and extensors to determine peak torque (PT), rate of force development (RFD), and the torque–angle (T–A) relationship at elbow angles of 45°, 60°, 75°, 90°, 105°, and 120°. Additionally, concentric and eccentric PTs were measured at 1.04 rad·s-1. Student t-test and ANOVA were performed using α = 0.05. Elbow flexors were stronger isometrically (P < 0.001, ES = 1.23) but weaker concentrically (P < 0.05, ES = 0.54) than extensor muscles, possibly because of the extensive grip disputes and pushing of opponents in BJJ. The T–A relationship had an inverted “U”-shape. Torque differences across elbow angles were moderate (ES = 0.62) for the extensor and large (ES = 0.92) for the flexor muscles. Isometric torque was greatest for elbow angles of 105° and 75° and smallest for 45° and 120° for extensor and flexor muscles, respectively. Elbow flexors had a greater RFD than extensors, regardless of elbow angle. The present study provides comprehensive results for elbow muscle strength in BJJ practitioners.

Age-Related Variations of Muscle Mass, Strength, and Physical Performance in Community-Dwellers: Results From the Milan EXPO Survey

ObjectivesDeclining muscle mass and function are hallmarks of the aging process. The preservation of muscle trophism may protect against various negative health outcomes. Age- and sex-specific curves of muscle mass, strength, and function, using data from a large sample of community-dwelling people, are necessary. Material and methodsTwo surveys (Longevity Check-up and Very Important Protein [VIP]), conducted during EXPO 2015 in Milan, consisted of a population assessment aimed at evaluating the prevalence of specific health metrics in subjects outside of a research setting (n = 3206), with a special focus on muscle mass, strength, and function. Muscle mass was estimated by using mid-arm muscle circumference (MAMC) and calf circumference of the dominant side. Muscle strength and function were assessed through handgrip strength testing and repeated chair stand test, respectively. ResultsThe mean age of 3206 participants in the Longevity Check-up and VIP surveys was 51.9 years (SD 15.6, range 18–98 years), and 1694 (52.8%) were women. Cross-sectional inspection suggests that both calf circumference and MAMC decline nonlinearly with age and the rate of decline varies by gender. These measures are stable until 50 years and then begin to decrease slightly with age, with the effect being more evident in men than in women. The main effect of the age category was observed in muscle strength and physical performance parameters. Muscle strength declined significantly after 45 years of age, both in men and women (P < .001). The muscle quality of the upper extremities, defined as handgrip strength divided by MAMC, declined significantly with aging, as well (P < .001). The time to complete the chair stand test was similar from 18 years to 40 to 44 years, and then a linear decline in performing the test across age groups was observed, with an increased time of more than 3 seconds, both in men and women (P < .001). ConclusionsMuscle mass and strength curves may be used to extract reference values for subsequent use in research as well as in the clinical setting. In particular, the analyses of trajectories of muscle parameters may help identify cutoffs for the estimation of risk of adverse events.

Correlations between isokinetic knee muscle strength, postural and functional parameters in knee osteoarthritis patients

The aim of the study was to investigate the relations between isokinetic muscle strength of the knee, postural profile and physical function in knee osteoarthritis patients. We included patients with advanced unilateral osteoarthritis (grades III or IV graded radiographically by Lawrence classification). We assessed functional impairment by the WOMAC score in its Arabic version, the strength of the knee muscles by isokinetic dynamometry and postural profile via the Satel ® platform in bipodal and monopodal conditions in open and closed eyes. The parameters were monitored: mediolateral (Long X) and anterior-posterior deviations (Long Y) of plantar center of pressure. Twenty patients with the mean age of 55.9 ± 13.0 years were evaluated. We objectified the decrease rating of isokinetic strength parameters of symptomatically knee compared to the healthy side. The mean of peak torque of the knee flexor was 46.3 ± 29.3 Nm on the symptomatic side, against 49.1 ± 34.9 on the healthy side ( P = 0.2). The mean of peak torque of the knee extensor was 61.8 ± 33.8 Nm on the symptomatic side, against 76.4 ± 47.0 Nm on the healthy side ( P = 0.04). We objectified increased postural parameters in monopodal stance on the symptomatic side compared to the healthy side in two conditions open and closed eyes. The average of the Long X in monopodal were respectively 917.1 ± 192.9 and 1472.4 ± 485.2 mm in open and closed eyes conditions of the symptomatic side and 886.8 ± 195.6 and 1303.9 ± 423.0 mm on the healthy side ( P = 0.2). The mean of The WOMAC score was 11.2 ± 3.9. A moderate correlation ( r = −0.54, P = 0.03) between the peak torque of the extensor at 60°/s and long X in monopodal stance in the symptomatic side was objectified. The correlations found between isokinetic strength and functional parameters were low. A deficit of the symptomatic knee muscles was objectified in our patients. The relations between the muscular and postural parameters were found. The one with the functional capacity was low.

Improvement of the Muscle Strength, Gait, and Functional Parameters with Rehabilitation Program in a Patient with Type-IV Spinal Muscular Atrophy

Improvement of the Muscle Strength, Gait, and Functional Parameters with Rehabilitation Program in a Patient with Type-IV Spinal Muscular Atrophy

Relationship between weight loss and parameters of skeletal muscle function in patients with advanced cancer and fatigue.

This study aims to determine the influence of significant weight loss on parameters of skeletal muscle function in a population of advanced cancer patients with fatigue. A cross-sectional and comparative study was designed between two arms of advanced cancer patients with fatigue (fatigue numeral scale (FNS) ≥4). A arm (n = 27) with ≥5% weight loss in the last 6months, and B arm (n = 22) without weight loss. Muscle strength was examined by hand grip technique and measurements of body composition by bioimpedance analysis (BIA), values of hemoglobin, albumin, lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), c-reactive protein (CRP), urine creatinine, and FNS. These variables were compared between both groups and correlated within each group. here were no differences concerning parameters of muscle strength between both arms. A arm had values of CRP ≥10ug/dl in 77% compared with 38.5% of B arm (p = 0.004). A arm showed a higher percentage of body cell mass (%BCM) than B arm (p = 0.005). The A arm also showed a lower percentage of fat mass (%FM) (p = 0.014) when compared to the B arm. FNS was higher in A arm (median 7 vs 5; p = 0.047). All the variables of muscle strength had a significant positive correlation. In A arm, BCM had a negative significant correlation with CRP (p = 0.021). In this study, significant weight loss and high CRP did not have influence on parameters of skeletal muscular function. We consider that further studies should be necessary, preferably with longitudinal designs to evaluate these findings.

Effect of Calcium β-Hydroxy-β-Methylbutyrate (CaHMB), Vitamin D, and Protein Supplementation on Postoperative Immobilization in Malnourished Older Adult Patients With Hip Fracture: A Randomized Controlled Study.

Nutrition support in orthopedic patients with malnutrition shortens the immobilization period. The efficacy of calcium β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (CaHMB), vitamin D, and protein intake on bone structure is studied and well known; however, there is no evidence supporting the effect of combined use in orthopedic conditions. We investigated the effects of CaHMB, vitamin D, and protein supplementation on wound healing, immobilization period, muscle strength, and laboratory parameters. This randomized controlled study included 75 older female patients with a hip fracture admitted to orthopedic clinics. The control group received standard postoperative nutrition. The study group received an enteral product containing 3 g CaHMB, 1000 IU vitamin D, and 36 g protein, in addition to standard postoperative nutrition. Anthropometric, laboratory, wound-healing, immobilization period, and muscle strength assessments were evaluated preoperatively and on postoperative days 15 and 30. Wound-healing period was significantly shorter in the CaHMB/vitamin D/protein group than in the control group ( P < .05). The number of patients in the CaHMB/vitamin D/protein group who were mobile on days 15 and 30 (81.3%) was significantly higher than patients in the control group, who were mobile on days 15 and 30 (26.7%) ( P = .001). Muscle strength on day 30 was significantly higher in the CaHMB/vitamin D/protein group vs the control group. Nutrition of elderly patients with a CaHMB/vitamin D/protein combination led to acceleration of wound healing, shortening of immobilization period, and increased muscle strength without changing body mass index. It also reduced dependence to bed and related complications after an orthopedic operation.

Contribution of isokinetic muscle strengthening in the rehabilitation of obese subjects

AimsOur objective was to evaluate the specific effect of isokinetic muscle strength enhancement in the rehabilitation of obese subjects by comparing two groups (isokinetic muscle exercising associated with aerobic exercising or only aerobic exercising). Patients and methodsThis was a randomized, prospective study from January 2008 to December 2009 involving 40 obese patients randomized into two groups. The first group G1 (n=20) followed a program of aerobic training and isokinetic exercising of the extensor and flexor muscles of lower limbs and spine. The second group G2 (n=20) followed only a program of aerobic exercising. All patients completed their rehabilitation protocols comprising 3 sessions per week for two months. The parameters evaluated before and after the program were anthropometric parameters (weight, stature, body mass index, body fat and lean body mass percentages), cardiovascular parameters by stress test on electromagnetic ergo-cycle, an assessment of muscle strength by isokinetic dynamometer and an assessment of psychological status and quality of life. ResultsWe recruited 36 women and 4 men. Initially, the 2 groups were comparable. After training, in both groups we noted an improvement in anthropometric parameters, with an average weight loss of 1.83kg/week (P<0.001), an improvement in cardiovascular parameters with a decrease in heart rate at rest and under effort, and in systolic and diastolic arterial blood pressure values at rest and under effort (P<0.01 in both group), an improvement in parameters of muscle strength with increase in moment of maximum strength of extensor and flexor knee and spine muscles for all three test speeds, and an improvement in psychological status and in quality of life. The improvement of all these parameters was statistically greater in G1 (P<0.05). ConclusionIsokinetic muscle strengthening increases the effects of aerobic exercising in the obese by improving muscle strength, increasing lean body mass and reducing body fat.

Relationship of toe pinch force to other muscle strength parameters in men with type 2 diabetes.

The aim of this study was to explore the relations between toe pinch force and other muscle strength parameters in male patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. A total of 40 men with type 2 diabetes (age: 53.4±13.1years, duration of diabetes: 8.5±8.1years) who needed exercise training were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. We evaluated the clinical parameters and 4 muscle strength parameters, which were toe pinch force, handgrip strength, isometric knee extension force, and isometric ankle dorsiflexion force. The HbA1c, toe pinch force, handgrip strength, isometric knee extension force, and isometric ankle dorsiflexion force were 10.1±2.4%, 3.2±1.2kg, 37.3±7.0kg, 39.6±11.4kgf, and 17.0±6.3kgf, respectively. Toe pinch force was significantly correlated with handgrip strength (r=0.365, p=0.0206), isometric knee extension force (r=0.668, p<0.0001), and isometric ankle dorsiflexion force (r=0.514, p=0.0007). All muscle strength parameters were significantly lower in patients with diabetic polyneuropathy than in those without polyneuropathy. Although toe pinch force was significantly correlated with the other muscle strength parameters, the correlation was not so strong. However, evaluation of toe pinch force might be recommended for assessment of distal limb muscle strength in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Effect of Oral Beta-Hydroxy-Beta-Methylbutyrate (HMB) Supplementation on Physical Performance in Healthy Old Women Over 65 Years: An Open Label Randomized Controlled Trial.

Although older people are particularly liable to sarcopenia, limited research is available on beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) supplementation in this population, particularly in healthy subjects. In this parallel-group, randomized, controlled, open-label trial, we aimed to evaluate whether an oral supplement containing 1.5 g of calcium HMB for 8 weeks could improve physical performance and muscle strength parameters in a group of community-dwelling healthy older women. Eighty healthy women attending a twice-weekly mild fitness program were divided into two equal groups of 40, and 32 of the treated women and 33 control completed the study. We considered a change in the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) score as the primary outcome and changes in the peak torque (PT) isometric and isokinetic strength of the lower limbs, 6-minute walking test (6MWT), handgrip strength and endurance as secondary outcomes. Body composition was assessed with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and peripheral quantitative computerized tomography (pQCT). The mean difference between the two groups on pre-post change were finally calculated (delta) for each outcome. After 8 weeks, there were no significant differences between the groups’ SPPB, handgrip strength or DXA parameters. The group treated with HMB scored significantly better than the control group for PT isokinetic flexion (delta = 1.56±1.56 Nm; p = 0.03) and extension (delta = 3.32±2.61 Nm; p = 0.03), PT isometric strength (delta = 9.74±3.90 Nm; p = 0.02), 6MWT (delta = 7.67±8.29 m; p = 0.04), handgrip endurance (delta = 21.41±16.28 s; p = 0.02), and muscle density assessed with pQCT. No serious adverse effects were reported in either group. In conclusion, a nutritional supplement containing 1.5 g of calcium HMB for 8 weeks in healthy elderly women had no significant effects on SPPB, but did significantly improve several muscle strength and physical performance parameters.Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT02118181

The Effect of a 12-Week Omega-3 Supplementation on Body Composition, Muscle Strength and Physical Performance in Elderly Individuals with Decreased Muscle Mass.

The aim of the study was to assess the effect of a polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids (PUFA) supplementation on the parameters of body composition, muscle strength and physical performance in elderly people with decreased muscle mass (DMM). Fifty three elderly people with an ALM index (the ratio of appendicular lean mass to squared height) either below (−2SD: low muscle mass-LMM) or between (−1SD and −2SD: the risk of LMM-rLMM) the ALM index for the young Polish reference population were randomly assigned to PUFA-treated groups (LMM-PUFA, rLMM-PUFA) or control groups (LMM-control, rLMM-control). PUFA-treated groups received capsules containing 1.3 g of PUFA and 10 mg of vitamin E, while the control groups received 11 mg of vitamin E daily for 12 weeks. Body composition (BIA analysis), muscle strength (hand grip measured with dynamometer) and physical performance (Timed Up and Go test-TUG) were assessed before and after supplementation. No statistically significant differences were observed either in muscle mass or in the hand grip and TUG in any group. The post-pre difference (mean ± SD) in ALM index was as follows (kg/m2): LMM-PUFA: 0.00 ± 0.30, rLMM-PUFA: 0.00 ± 0.22, LMM-control: 0.03 ± 0.36, rLMM-control: –0.03 ± 0.20. In our study, a 12 week supplementation of PUFA did not affect the evaluated parameters in elderly individuals with DMM.

Previous Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Compromises Bone and Muscle Strength in Collegiate Athletes

A growing body of research has shown that recreationally active individuals have decreased bone and muscle strength following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and reconstruction; largely attributed to immobility following reconstructive surgery. However, little research has examined musculoskeletal adaption to ACL injury among collegiate athletes. PURPOSE: To examine limb-to-limb differences in muscle and bone strength parameters in collegiate athletes with a history of ACL injury and reconstruction. METHODS: Peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) and a series of muscle function tests were used to assess bone and muscle strength, respectively, among 12 Division III college athletes (5 males, 7 females; age=20.7 ± 0.5 years) with an ACL injury in the previous five years. Total and cortical bone volumetric density (ToD and CoD), and cortical bone mineral content (CoCnt), bone area (CoA), thickness (CoTh) and estimated bone strength (SSIp), along with muscle cross-sectional area (MCSA) were measured using pQCT at the proximal tibia (66%), patella midline, and distal femur (20%) sites. Muscle function assessment included single-leg hop and isometric manual muscle tests. A Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale was also administered. Both limbs were measured and a leg symmetry index (LSI) was calculated for all assessments. RESULTS: Tibia CoCnt (LSI=97.3%) was lower in the injured limb, along with patella ToD (LSI=89.7%; both p<0.05). At the femur, CoA (LSI= 94.4%) and CoTh (LSI= 94.4%) were lower in the injured limb (both p<0.05). MCSA was lower at the tibia (LSI=96.2%) and femur (LSI= 87.1%) of the injured limb, along with performance on the single leg (LSI= 78.2%) and cross hop (LSI=85.3%) patterns of the hop test (all p<0.05). No limb differences were found for manual muscle tests. CONCLUSIONS: Our results showed less robust bone density and geometry parameters, along with lower muscle strength outcomes in ACL-injured limbs among collegiate athletes up to five years following injury. These differences, however, were less pronounced than deficits previously reported among older, recreational athletes. Future research should investigate the effect of pre-injury health and fitness status in athletes compared to the general population. Supported by University of St. Thomas Young Scholar Grant.

The effects of intermittent vitamin D3 supplementation on muscle strength and metabolic parameters in postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled study.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of weekly vitamin D3 supplementation on metabolic parameters and muscle strength of postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes. A total of 38 patients with serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D] below 30 ng/ml and hand strength below 20 kg were randomly assigned to oral vitamin D3 (6600 IU/week in 2 cc oil preparation) or 2 cc olive oil weekly for 3 months. There were nonsignificant increases in serum 25(OH)D in the intervention group to 22.98 ± 4.23 ng/ml and nonsignificant decreases in the control group to 22.84 ± 3.88 (26% of the intervention and 48% of the control groups had 25(OH)D < 20 ng/ml). Handgrip strength improved significantly in the intervention group (right arm 17.4 ± 2.68 to 19.9 ± 3.53 kg, p = 0.002; left arm 16.31 ± 2.6 to 18.46 ± 3.2 kg, p < 0.001) but not in the control group (right arm 16.87 ± 3.99 to 17.93 ± 4.91 kg, p = 0.1; left arm 16.13 ± 4.29 to 16.86 ± 4.79 kg, p < 0.2). More patients in the control group became obese at the end of the study period (p = 0.014). There were no significant changes in mean fasting glucose, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), serum triglycerides and blood pressure with vitamin D supplementation. Systolic blood pressure increased significantly in the control group from 136.6 ± 18.6 to 141.4 ± 17.6 mmHg, p = 0.04). Vitamin D3 supplementation in doses equivalent to 942 IU/day improved isometric handgrip strength, but had no effect on glycaemic control in postmenopausal women with longstanding type 2 diabetes.

Balance and ankle muscle strength predict spatiotemporal gait parameters in individuals with diabetic peripheral neuropathy

AimsThe aims of this study were to evaluate aspects of balance, ankle muscle strength and spatiotemporal gait parameters in individuals with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and verify whether deficits in spatiotemporal gait parameters were associated with ankle muscle strength and balance performance. Materials and methodsThirty individuals with DPN and 30 control individuals have participated. Spatiotemporal gait parameters were evaluated by measuring the time to walk a set distance during self-selected and maximal walking speeds. Functional mobility and balance performance were assessed using the Functional Reach and the Time Up and Go tests. Ankle isometric muscle strength was assessed with a handheld digital dynamometer. Analyses of variance were employed to verify possible differences between groups and conditions. Multiple linear regression analysis was employed to uncover possible predictors of gait deficits. ResultsGait spatiotemporal, functional mobility, balance performance and ankle muscle strength were affected in individuals with DPN. The Time Up and Go test performance and ankle muscle isometric strength were associated to spatiotemporal gait changes, especially during maximal walking speed condition. ConclusionFunctional mobility and balance performance are damaged in DPN and balance performance and ankle muscle strength can be used to predict spatiotemporal gait parameters in individuals with DPN.

IMPACT OF PHYSIOTHERAPIST-DESIGNED SUPERVISED EXERCISE PROTOCOL ON MUSCLE STRENGTH, AND AUTONOMIC PARAMETERS IN PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS: A CLINICAL TRIAL

Background and Objectives: Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by variable degree of insulin resistance, impaired insulin secretion, and increased glucose production. Physical activity is central to the management type 2 diabetes. There is less evidence to suggest the efficacy of combined effect of physiotherapist- designed supervised exercise protocol on muscle strength and autonomic parameters in such subjects. Hence, the present study was designed to evaluate effect of physiotherapist designed supervised exercise protocol of muscle strength and autonomic parameters in this subject population. Material and Methods: This clinical trial was conducted in thirty (30) adult subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus including both males and females in the age group of 18 to 65 years. All subjects received physiotherapist designed supervised exercise training protocol consisting of aerobic, resistance & flexibility training. Preexercise and post-exercise outcome measurements were taken at baseline, 7th & 14th day in the form of 1-RM for muscle strength and autonomic parameters. Results: Statistical analysis of outcomes at baseline, 7th day and 14th day showed statistically significant difference in strength (p=0.0001), and reduction in autonomic parameters (p=0.0001) Conclusion: The therapist designed exercise protocol has shown to improve muscle strength , mean systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, pulse rate, pulse pressure, mean arterial pressure, rate pressure product. The protocol has also proved to be safe since no adverse event was noted post exercise.

Relationship between muscle strength parameters and functional capacity in persons with mild to moderate degree multiple sclerosis

BackgroundMaximal muscle strength has been shown to be an important predictor of functional capacity for persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Another muscle strength parameter known to be important for functional capacity in other patient groups is rate of force development (RFD) in knee extensors and flexors. This has not been investigated for PwMS. Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between RFD and maximal muscle strength of knee extensors and flexors and measures of functional capacity in PwMS. Methods35 PwMS (Expanded Disability Status Scale 2–4) underwent isokinetic dynamometry to determine RFD and maximal isometric and isokinetic muscle strength for both legs. Furthermore all participants performed timed 25 foot walk tests (T25FWT), two minute walk tests (2MWT), stairclimb tests and 5-time sit-to-stand (5STS) tests to determine functional capacity. Multiple linear regressions were performed to determine which muscle strength parameter would serve as a stronger predictor of walking performance. ResultsBoth RFD and maximal muscle strength correlated with functional capacity. Correlations were strongest for knee extensors and flexors of the weaker leg, while no clear ranking of the influence of the knee extensors vs. flexors on walking was evident. Multiple linear regressions showed that maximal isokinetic strength of the weaker leg is a better predictor for T25FWT and 2MWT performance than RFD. ConclusionsMaximal muscle strength of the weaker leg is the better predictor of walking performance in persons with mild to moderate multiple sclerosis. RFD, although also important for functional capacity, is a less strong predictor. Maximal strength of the knee extensors, rather than the knee flexors, predicted performance in the stairclimb and 5STS tests.

Effects of Kinesio Tape application to quadriceps muscles on isokinetic muscle strength, gait, and functional parameters in patients with stroke.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Kinesio Tape (KT) application to quadriceps muscles on isokinetic muscle strength, gait, and functional parameters in patients with stroke. Twenty-four patients were allocated into KT and control groups. All patients participated in the same conventional rehabilitation program 5 times/wk for 4 wk. In addition, KT was applied to quadriceps muscles bilaterally to the patients in the KT group. Compared with baseline, peak torque levels increased significantly in both groups (all p < 0.05). However, change levels were significantly higher in the KT group than the control group at 60 degrees/second angular velocity (AV) in extension (p = 0.04) and 60 and 180 degrees/second AV in flexion (both p = 0.02) on the paretic side. Moreover, the change levels were more prominent in the KT group at 60 and 180 degrees/second AV in extension (p = 0.03 and p = 0.04, respectively) on the nonparetic side. Gait, balance, mobility, and quality of life values improved significantly in both groups (all p < 0.05), yet the change levels between the groups did not reach significance (p > 0.05). KT application to quadriceps muscles in addition to conventional exercises for 4 wk is effective on isokinetic but not functional parameters.

Knee muscle strength in multiple sclerosis: relationship with gait characteristics.

[Purpose] To investigate the relationship between isokinetic knee muscle strength and kinematic, kinetic and spatiotemporal gait parameters of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). [Subjects and Methods] Twenty-nine MS patients (mean age 31.5±6.5) were investigated in this study. The isokinetic knee muscle strength and gait parameters of MS patients with moderate and severe disability, as determined by the expanded disability status scale (EDSS): EDSS=1–4.5 (n=22, moderate disability) and EDSS>4.5 (n=7, severe disability) were measured. [Results] Isokinetic knee muscle strength, kinematic, kinetic and spatiotemporal gait parameters differed between moderate (EDSS=1–4.5, n=22) and severe disability (EDSS>4.5, n=7). The correlation between each of gait speed, stride length, total range of knee joint movement and the four strength parameters (minimum and maximum quadriceps and hamstring muscle strengths) were significant for the MS group as a whole. Within subgroups, the correlation between minimum hamstring strength and total range of knee movement was significant only in group EDSS>4.5; minimum hamstring correlated with peak knee extensor moment in group EDSS=1–4.5, but at a reduced level of significance. [Conclusion] The present study revealed significant correlations between gait characteristics and isokinetic strength parameters of the quadriceps and hamstring muscles. Our study suggests that rehabilitation protocols for MS patients should include a critical strength training programme particularly for the hamstring and quadriceps muscles.

Effects of Tai Chi Exercise on Physical Function and Parent-child Relationship in Adults and Children: A Pilot Study

Objective: This pilot study was aimed at testing the feasibility of parent-child Tai Chi training and also investigating the effects of Tai Chi on physical function and parent-child relationship in adults and children. Method: Eighteen parents and 15 children were recruited in this pilot study. Physical outcome measurements included muscle strength, cardio-respiratory function and balance. Muscular strength was measured in bilateral hip flexors, extensors, knee flexors and extensors. Hand grip strength was also assessed. Cardio-respiratory function was tested with the YMCA 3-minute step test. Balance control was assessed with the limits of stability test. Apart from physical function, parent-child relationship was also investigated with the Chinese Family Assessment Instrument. All subjects were assessed before and after a 3-month baseline control period, and after subsequent 3- month Tai Chi training. The training was carried out once a week with 90 minutes per session. Results: No adverse event related to Tai Chi training was reported throughout the study period. Attendance rate of the Tai Chi training course was 88%. Results of the pilot study showed significant increases in most muscle strength parameters in both parent and child groups after Tai Chi training. Significant improvement in heart rate changed in 3-minute step test was also found in both groups after Tai Chi practice. There was a significant decrease in mutuality reported by the parent group during the baseline control period, but no such change was found after the intervention period. Conclusion: It was feasible to conduct parent-child Tai Chi training. In addition, Tai Chi is an option of exercise to promote muscle strength and cardio-respiratory function in adults and children.

The effect of progressive task-oriented training on a supplementary tilt table on lower extremity muscle strength and gait recovery in patients with hemiplegic stroke

The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of progressive task-oriented training on a supplementary tilt table on the lower extremity (LE) muscle strength and spatiotemporal parameters of gait in subjects with hemiplegic stroke. Thirty subjects between three and nine months post stroke were included in this study. Thirty subjects were randomly allocated to a control group (CG, n1=10), experimental group I (EG1, n2=10), and experimental group II (EG2, n3=10). All of the subjects received routine therapy for half an hour, five times a week for three weeks and additionally received training on the following three different tilt table applications for 20min a day: (1) both knee belts of the tilt table were fastened (CG), (2) only the affected side knee belt of the tilt table was fastened and one-leg standing training was performed using the less-affected LE (EG1), and (3) only the affected side knee belt of the tilt table was fastened and progressive task-oriented training was performed using the less-affected LE (EG2). The effect of tilt table applications was assessed using a hand-held dynamometer for LE muscle strength and GAITRite for spatiotemporal gait data. Our results showed that there was a significantly greater increase in the strength of all LE muscle groups, gait velocity, cadence, and stride length, a decrease in the double limb support period, and an improvement in gait asymmetry in subjects who underwent progressive task-oriented training on a supplementary tilt table compared to those in the other groups. These findings suggest that progressive task-oriented training on a supplementary tilt table can improve the LE muscle strength and spatiotemporal parameters of gait at an early stage of rehabilitation of subjects with hemiplegic stroke.

Effects of follicular versus luteal phase-based strength training in young women.

Hormonal variations during the menstrual cycle (MC) may influence trainability of strength. We investigated the effects of a follicular phase-based strength training (FT) on muscle strength, muscle volume and microscopic parameters, comparing it to a luteal phase-based training (LT).Eumenorrheic women without oral contraception (OC) (N = 20, age: 25.9 ± 4.5 yr, height: 164.2 ± 5.5 cm, weight: 60.6 ± 7.8 kg) completed strength training on a leg press for three MC, and 9 of them participated in muscle biopsies. One leg had eight training sessions in the follicular phases (FP) and only two sessions in the luteal phases (LP) for follicular phase-based training (FT), while the other leg had eight training sessions in LP and only two sessions in FP for luteal phase-based training (LT). Estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), total testosterone (T), free testosterone (free T) and DHEA-s were analysed once during FP (around day 11) and once during LP (around day 25). Maximum isometric force (Fmax), muscle diameter (Mdm), muscle fibre composition (No), fibre diameter (Fdm) and cell nuclei-to-fibre ratio (N/F) were analysed before and after the training intervention.T and free T were higher in FP compared to LP prior to the training intervention (P < 0.05). The increase in Fmax after FT was higher compared to LT (P <0.05). FT also showed a higher increase in Mdm than LT (P < 0.05). Moreover, we found significant increases in Fdm of fibre type ΙΙ and in N/F only after FT; however, there was no significant difference from LT. With regard to change in fibre composition, no differences were observed between FT and LT. FT showed a higher gain in muscle strength and muscle diameter than LT.As a result, we recommend that eumenorrheic females without OC should base the periodization of their strength training on their individual MC.