Dorsiflexion Range Of Motion Research Articles

Acute effects of static stretching on postural control during a maximum forward-leaning task in young and older adults

Background Static stretching (SS) is effective in increasing flexibility and neuromuscular function, leading to changes in postural control. Objective This study aimed to examine the acute effects of SS on ankle plantar flexors and dynamic postural control during a maximum forward-leaning task in young and older adults. Methods Twenty-eight university students and 22 community-dwelling older adults were included in this study. The participants performed 5 sets of 1-min SS for the ankle plantar flexors of both legs with standing on a stretching board. Ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM) and center of pressure (COP) during the maximum forward-leaning task, the COP area, and the anterior limit of stability were assessed before and after SS. Results SS increased ankle dorsiflexion ROM, COP velocity, and anterior limit of stability, whereas changes in the COP area were not significant after SS. Furthermore, there were no differences in the changes in postural control between young and older adults, whereas ROM increase was greater in older adults than in young adults. Conclusions These findings suggest that SS can improve postural control and can serve as a simple, low-risk intervention to reduce the risk of falls in older, at-risk adult populations.

New Surgical Approach and Rehabilitation After Cemented Total Ankle Arthroplasty.

According to the conventional postoperative procedure after total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) for end-stage osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), mobilization and weight-bearing are currently started after completion of wound healing. Recently, an early rehabilitation program after cemented TAA with a modified anterolateral approach has been attempted because this approach could provide stable wound healing. To investigate the possibility of expediting rehabilitation, this study evaluated the feasibility, safety, and universality of an early rehabilitation program after cemented TAA using a modified anterolateral approach, even when a surgeon was completely changed. This retrospective, observational study investigated 13 consecutive ankles (OA: 11 ankles, RA: two ankles) that had undergone cemented TAA with a modified anterolateral approach. As an early rehabilitation program, after early dorsiflexion mobilization (day three), full weight-bearing/gait exercise was started seven days after surgery (10 days after if malleolar osteotomy was added). Postoperative wound complications were observed and recorded. The number of days of hospitalization was also evaluated. Range of motion (ROM) of dorsiflexion/plantarflexion was measured. Patients also completed the self-administered foot evaluation questionnaire (SAFE-Q) and the Japanese Society for Surgery of the Foot (JSSF) ankle/hindfoot score preoperatively and at the final follow-up. No postoperative complications related to wound healing were observed even after the early rehabilitation program. The duration of hospitalization was shorter (23.5 days) than our previous experience after a conventional rehabilitation program (36-38 days). ROM for both dorsiflexion (from 4.6° to 16.5°; p=0.002) and plantarflexion (from 27.7° to 37.7°; p=0.019) increased significantly, and all indices of the SAFE-Q score and the JSSF score showed highly significant improvement. An early rehabilitation program was feasible and safe following the modified anterolateral approach. Although these points were confirmed with a cemented TAA system at present, further innovations in postoperative rehabilitation after TAA are expected.

Determinants of Maximal Dorsiflexion Range of Motion: Multi-Perspective Comparison Using Mechanical, Neural, Morphological, and Muscle Quality Factors.

Background/Objectives: the purpose of this study was to determine the contributions of mechanical, neural, morphological, and muscle quality factors on individual differences in the maximal ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM). Methods: A sample of 41 university students performed passive-dorsiflexion and morphological measurements. In the passive-dorsiflexion measurement, while the ankle was passively dorsiflexed, maximal dorsiflexion ROM was measured in addition to passive torque at a given angle and muscle-tendon junction (MTJ) displacement during the last 13° as mechanical factors, and stretch tolerance and muscle activation were measured as neural factors. In morphological measurements, the cross-sectional area, muscle thickness, muscle fascicle length, and pennation angle were measured. In addition, the echo intensity was evaluated as muscle quality. Subjects were divided into three groups (flexible, moderate, and tight) using the value of the maximal dorsiflexion ROM. Results: Maximal dorsiflexion ROM and stretch tolerance were greater in the flexible group than those in the moderate and tight groups. MTJ displacement was smaller in the flexible group than those in the moderate and tight groups. Stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that stretch tolerance and passive torque at a given angle were selected as parameters to explain the maximal dorsiflexion ROM (adjusted R2 = 0.83). Conclusions: these results indicate that individual differences in maximal ankle dorsiflexion ROM are primarily related to mechanical and neural factors.

Immediate Effects of Calf Tissue Flossing on Ankle Joint Torque and Dorsiflexion Range of Motion in Healthy Individuals: A Randomized Controlled Crossover Trial.

Tissue flossing involves wrapping a rubber band around a muscle group for a few minutes while performing joint motion, enhancing ankle joint torque and range of motion. As limited ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and plantar flexion muscle weakness are risk factors for sports injury, assessing the therapeutic effects of tissue flossing is important. This study aimed to evaluate the immediate effects of calf tissue flossing on enhancing ankle joint torque and dorsiflexion range of motion. We conducted a randomized controlled crossover trial involving 19 healthy adult males who received two interventions (low and high-pressure tissue flossing bands) and a control condition (underwrap). Each intervention was applied for 2 minutes on the non-dominant calf, with 5-10 days between sessions. A pressure sensor placed on the posterior calf monitored the wrapping compression force. The intervention exercise comprised six voluntary isometric contractions of the ankle at three angles (20° plantar flexion, neutral 0°, and 10° dorsiflexion) for 3 seconds each using a dynamometer. The maximal isometric ankle plantar flexion torque and dorsiflexion range of motion were evaluated pre- and post-intervention. Significant interactions were observed in ankle plantar flexion torque at 10° dorsiflexion (p < 0.01) but not at 0° or 20° plantar flexion. The low- and high-pressure bands significantly enhanced ankle plantar flexion torque by 4.3 Nm (effect size [ES]: 0.14, p = 0.02) and 4.9 Nm (ES: 0.15, p < 0.05), respectively, and also enhanced the ankle dorsiflexion range of motion by 1.7° (ES: 0.43, p < 0.01) and 1.3° (ES: 0.35, p = 0.02), respectively, compared to the control. The low- and high-pressure band conditions had comparable effects on torque and range of motion. A few minutes of the calf tissue flossing intervention significantly enhanced ankle plantar flexion torque and dorsiflexion range of motion, although the effect sizes were trivial to small.

Chronic effects of a static stretching intervention program on range of motion and tissue hardness in older adults.

Clinically, knowing whether a static stretching (SS) intervention program conducted for several weeks can reduce passive muscle stiffness is important. Still, only a few previous studies have evaluated the chronic effects of an SS intervention program in older adults, and the potential relationship between ROM changes and muscle stiffness changes is still unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a 10- week SS intervention partially supervised program on joint range of motion (ROM) and tissue hardness in older adults. The SS intervention program was conducted at least three times a week for 10 weeks in the ankle plantar flexor muscles of 24 community-dwelling older adults (73.8 ± 5.1 years; height: 156.0 ± 6.8 cm; body mass: 52.7 ± 8.0 kg). The SS intervention program consisted of 4 × 30-s repetitions. Ankle joint dorsiflexion (DF) ROM and tissue hardness of the medial gastrocnemius were measured before and after the 10-week SS intervention program. The results showed that the 10-week SS intervention program significantly increased DF ROM (+9°, p < 0.01, Cohen's d = 1.37) and decreased tissue hardness (-0.9, p = 0.04, Cohen's d = -0.27). However, there was no significant correlation between these changes (r = 0.086, p = 0.561). The results of this study suggest that a 10-week SS intervention program can effectively increase DF ROM and decrease tissue hardness but that the increase in DF ROM is related to stretch tolerance rather than changes in tissue hardness.

The effectiveness of foam rolling with and without vibration and static stretching on range of motion, muscle strength and proprioception of the ankle joint in adults with chronic ankle instability

BackgroundPeople with chronic ankle instability (CAI) have insufficient ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (DFROM) and decreases proprioception and muscle strength. Foam roller with and without vibration as a warm-up intervention may have benefits for healthy populations, but the effect on applied to injured individuals is still lacking, especially in CAI. Therefore, we aimed to compare the acute effects of three warm-up interventions, including vibration foam rolling (VR), foam rolling (FR), and static stretching (SS) in adults with CAI. MethodsThis study was a randomized, counterbalanced crossover trial. Eligible sixteen adults with CAI received all three interventions (VR, FR, and SS) in unilateral CAI leg in a randomized order. Each intervention included 6 sets, 30 s each, targeting the ankle dorsiflexors and plantarflexors, with a 30-s rest time in between. Ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (DFROM), muscle strength, and ankle proprioception were measured before and immediately after each intervention. ResultsVR significantly improved ankle DFROM and muscle strength by over 30% compared to the pre-intervention, whereas FR improved DFROM by 23.68%, and SS did not improve DFROM. Additionally, VR was more significantly effective than SS in improving ankle DFROM and maximal strength. The ankle joint repositioning error angle did not have significantly different. ConclusionsOur results suggest that VR and FR interventions may be incorporated into warm-ups for adults with CAI to improve ankle DFROM. Furthermore, VR offers additional benefits in increasing muscle strength, especially compared to SS.

Investigating the Effects of Shockwave and Percussion Massage Gun on Subacute Myofascial Pain in Gasterocenemious Muscle

Introduction: Myofascial pain syndrome is a common musculoskeletal injury, especially among athletes, typically treated with symptomatic invasive and non-invasive methods. This study compares the effects of massage guns and radial extracorporeal shock wave therapies on myofascial pain syndrome symptoms in amateur athletes. Materials and Methods: In this clinical trial, 45 amateur athletes (18-30 years old) were recruited, who were randomly assigned to 15-member groups of shock wave, massage gun, and control (routine treatment included electrotherapy and stretching, which was applied on three groups). After initial evaluations of the pain intensity, pain pressure threshold (PPT), isometric muscle strength, and range of motion (ROM), the patients received single-session treatment and were immediately reassessed. Results: The results showed pain relief and improved PPT following shock wave plus routine treatment (P=0.03). The control group had less pain, while pain intensity and PPT did not change. The variables were not significantly different between the groups (P=0.12). Shock wave along with routine treatment increased plantar flexion ROM (P=0.00), unlike the massage gun. Additionally, dorsiflexion ROM (P=0.63) and maximal isometric gastrocnemius muscle strength (P=0.95) remained unchanged in all groups. Conclusion: One session of massage gun therapy immediately reduced gastrocnemius muscle pain, while it failed to change PPT, maximal isometric gastrocnemius muscle strength, or dorsiflexion and plantar flexion ROM. However, shock wave therapy immediately increased plantar flexion ROM and PPT, and reduced pain intensity. These modalities led to limited changes, suggesting the need for repeated sessions and supplementary treatments.

The impact of protocol designs for using massage guns on lower body flexibility: A randomised cross-over design study

IntroductionCurrent protocols for delivering percussive therapy (PT) using massage guns are heterogeneous creating a need to establish the impact of study design on physiological measures. This cross-over design study aimed to determine the most effective protocol, among the eight protocols examined, on lower body flexibility, and to support the provision of protocol validation for future research. MethodRecreationally active healthy adults (n = 35) undertook two main protocols; three sessions per week at 2100 rpm or increasing the speed from session-to-session: 1750 to 2100–2400 rpm. PT was applied for 60 s to each of the quadriceps, gluteals, hamstrings and calves of both legs. Paired-samples t-tests assessed pre- and post-intervention data for hip flexion and ankle dorsi-flexion range of motion (ROM). These were collected in all sessions using a digital goniometer allowing changes for eight different protocols to be examined. ResultsResults showed the most effective protocol, among the eight protocols examined, for achieving significant gains in lower body flexibility is applying massage gun PT three times a week with increased speeds across sessions (1750–2100–2400 rpm), with average increases for the combined dominant and non-dominant legs of 5.8% for hip flexion and 5.6% ankle dorsiflexion. ConclusionsPractitioners and the public using this protocol could target specific improvements in hip flexion and ankle dorsi-flexion ROM and researchers may wish to adopt this protocol to allow homogenous analysis across study populations in future research.

Relationship Between the Amount of Change in Echo Intensity and Young's Modulus of the Soleus Muscle After Ankle Fracture Surgery.

We aimed to clarify the relationship between the changes in echo intensity (EI) and Young's modulus of the soleus (SOL) muscle after ankle fracture surgery. Sixteen participants after ankle fracture surgery participated in this study (mean age: 46.8 ± 21.4 years). At three and five months after surgery, ankle range of motion (ROM), ankle strength, SOL muscle EI, and Young's modulus were measured, and changes in values were calculated. The EI was measured using the B-mode and ImageJ software (National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD), and Young's modulus was measured using shear wave elastography (SWE). The EI values corrected for subcutaneous fat thickness were calculated. Correlation and simple regression analysis were used to clarify the relationship between the amount of change in EI, the amount of change in Young's modulus, and the amount of change in ankle ROM. Simple regression analysis showed that the amount of change in EI influenced the amount of change in Young's modulus of the SOL muscle (r = 0.623; p = 0.010) and the amount of change in ankle dorsiflexion ROM with the knee flexed (r = -0.702; p = 0.002). The change in EI of the SOL muscle affected the change in Young's modulus after ankle fracture surgery. Clinically, changes in the EI may reflect changes in muscle stiffness.

Improved Postoperative Radiographic Alignment Associated with Patient-Specific Instrumentation in Total Ankle Arthroplasty

Category: Ankle Arthritis; Ankle Introduction/Purpose: The rate of total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) is projected to continue to increase globally over the next several decades. While the most significant predictor of complications after total ankle arthroplasty is implant malalignment, intra-operative evaluation of alignment can be technically challenging to achieve. Patient-specific instrumentation (PSI) was designed to improve the accuracy of implant positioning in TAA. Therefore, we sought to compare radiographic alignment and postoperative function in patients who underwent TAA with PSI guides versus standard instrumentation. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 75 ankles who underwent TAA using PSI compared to 80 ankles who underwent TAA without PSI. Demographics, radiographic alignment, range of motion (ROM), complications, and postoperative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores were compared. All patients had minimum 1-year follow-up. Demographics were similar between cohorts, including gender (p=0.176), body mass index (p=0.914), laterality (p=0.847), preoperative diagnosis (p=0.126), and history of diabetes mellitus (p=0.665), although patients in the PSI group were older (mean=68.56 versus 64.75, p=0.014) and had a higher American Society of Anesthesiologists score (mean=2.37 versus 2.15, p=0.003). Preoperative dorsiflexion (mean=9.09° versus 8.79°, p=0.762), plantarflexion (mean=29.59° versus 27.50°, p=0.152), and total ROM (mean=38.68° versus 36.29°, p=0.260) were similar between cohorts. The PSI cohort had more preoperative talar tilt (mean=7.48° versus 4.38°, p=0.004), but similar coronal angle (mean=-2.39° versus -0.09°, p=0.242) and sagittal translation (mean=3.14° versus 1.30°, p=0.085). Results: Postoperative coronal angle (mean=0.27° (range=-8.16°-5.42°) versus 1.38° (range=-4.19°-9.14°), p=0.006) and sagittal angle (mean=-1.99° (range=-9.01°-3.94°) versus -4.51° (range=-13.0°-2.0°), p&lt; 0.001) were more accurate and had a narrower range with the PSI guides compared to the manual guides. Postoperative ROM was similar between the PSI and manual groups, including dorsiflexion (mean=10.27° versus 10.83°, p=0.549), plantarflexion (mean=29.27° versus 29.83°, p=0.607), and total ROM (mean=39.54° versus 40.67°, p=0.496). Patients with PSI had improved AOFAS alignment scores (mean=9.73 versus 8.89, p=0.005), but there were similar AOFAS pain (mean=29.32 versus 31.51, p=0.125), function (mean=40.48 versus 38.79, p=0.281), and total scores (mean=79.52 versus 79.19, p=0.897) between cohorts. There were similar numbers of patients who required revision (1.33% versus 7.50%, p=0.144) or irrigation and debridement (4.00% versus 5.00%, p=1.000) between cohorts. Conclusion: PSI is associated with more accurate postoperative coronal and sagittal alignment compared to manual instrumentation TAA. While patients with PSI had decreased AOFAS alignment scores, both cohorts had similar postoperative range of motion and overall AOFAS scores. While there were a similar number of revisions and irrigation and debridement procedures in each cohort, this retrospective review was limited to shorter term follow-up. Further research is needed to determine if the improved alignment with the use of PSI implants is associated with better survivability long term.

Chronic Isolated Fracture of the Metatarsal Head in Lesser Toes Treated with Open Reduction and Internal Fixation

Category: Lesser Toes; Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Isolated fractures of a metatarsal head in the lesser toes are uncommon in clinical practice and are prone to being overlooked, potentially leading to chronic fractures or mal-union. This study aims to report the clinical and imaging characteristics, as well as treatment results, of these fractures. Methods: A retrospective consecutive case-series study was performed on 5 patients with symptomatic chronic isolated shear fracture of a metatarsal head in the lesser toes from January 2018 to April 2021. There were 4 males and 1 female, with a mean age of 26.2±6.7(range, 19-36) years at the time of surgery. Two of them (40%) were not diagnosed initially. The main symptom was limited dorsiflexion of the MTPJ. Preoperative X-rays and CT scans revealed dorsal displacement of the fragment without dislocation of the MTP joint.All patients were operatively treated using open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). The American Orthopaedic Foot &amp; Ankle Society-lesser metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal (AOFAS-LMI) score, visual analog scale (VAS) score, and passive dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM) of the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) were determined preoperatively and at final follow-up. Postoperative complications were also recorded. Results: All of the chronic fractures achieved union. At the final follow-up (mean, 27.8±15.5 months; range 6-45), the mean AOFAS-LMI scores was 90.6±8.4 (range, 82 - 100) points, the median VAS score was 0 (range, 0 - 2.0) points, and the median MTPJ passive dorsiflexion ROM was 40.0 (range, 35 - 45) degree, which were improved compared with preoperatively [(70.6±7.4) (range, 59 - 79) points, 4.0 (range, 2.0 - 5.0) points, 10.0 (range, 5.0 - 10.0) degree, respectively)]. All patients returned to their respective preinjury activity levels. Three patients developed metatarsophalangeal joint arthritis. Conclusion: Patients with a chronic isolated shear fracture of a metatarsal head in the lesser toes treated by ORIF achieved good short-term and mid-term clinical outcomes. Figure 1 The male patient, aged 27, fell from a height of 1.5 meters, resulting in injury with a duration of 6 months. He complained of localized obscure pain in the right fourth metatarsophalangeal joint, with restricted dorsiflexion. Plain radiograph revealed narrowing of the fourth metatarsophalangeal joint space and overlapping shadows between the base of the proximal phalanx and the metatarsal head (A); oblique radiograph showed dorsal displacement and angular deviation of the fracture fragment, with loss of normal joint morphology (B); CT imaging demonstrated dorsal displacement of the metatarsal head fragment (C); physical examination indicated restricted dorsiflexion of the metatarsophalangeal joint (D); intraoperatively, a dorsal approach to the metatarsophalangeal joint was utilized (E); exposure revealed fracture of the metatarsal head, with dorsal displacement and deformity (F); osteotomy was performed along the original fracture line, and the fracture fragment was temporarily removed for debridement (G); fracture reduction was achieved, followed by temporary fixation with two Kirschner wires (H); definitive fixation was accomplished using a headless compression screw (I); the incision was closed layer by layer (J); manual manipulation confirmed full range of motion and smooth movement of the metatarsophalangeal joint (K); intraoperative fluoroscopy with a C-arm machine showed satisfactory reduction and optimal screw positioning (L, M); postoperative radiographs at 6 weeks (N, O) demonstrated fracture healing; at the final follow-up, anteroposterior (P) and lateral (Q) radiographs showed excellent fracture consolidation with mild signs of arthritis.

Subtalar joint pronation: Who is the real enemy, presence or severity: A cross-sectional study?

The study aims to compare static and dynamic postural stability, navicular drop, dorsiflexion range of motion, and jumping performance of individuals with neutral, prone, and hyperprone foot postures. Forty-eight participants between the ages of 18 and 40, were categorized into neutral (n=16), prone (n=16), and hyperprone (n=16) according to foot posture index (FPI). Static and dynamic postural control evaluations (with the Biodex Balance System SD), navicular drop test (NDT) weight-bearing lunge test, countermovement jump test without arm swing, and drop vertical jump tests have been completed. In the results, the average age of participants in the NG, PG, and HPG are 22.31 ± 2.75, 23.87± 3.72, and 22.37 ± 1.28 years and BMI are 22.6 ± 3, 23.4 ± 3.8, and 21.4 ± 2.24 (kg/m²), respectively. The demographic data of the participants showed a homogeneous distribution. There were no significant differences in none of the outcomes except the NDT. Navicular drop amount is positively correlated by the subtalar joint pronation. An increase in subtalar joint pronation does not have a significant effect on static and dynamic stability, jump performance, or dorsiflexion range of motion in healthy individuals.

Active versus passive foam rolling on range of motion, tissue property, and neural adaptation in healthy young adults: A randomised controlled trial

IntroductionSelf-massage using a foam roller (foam rolling) is effective for increasing range of motion (ROM). However, the independent effects of pressure stimulation and voluntary movement during foam rolling remain unclear. This study investigated the effects of pressure stimulation and voluntary movement during the foam rolling intervention on ROM and its related parameters from the aspects of tissue mechanical properties and the central nervous system. MethodsThis study set a randomised open-label controlled parallel group design involving active foam rolling with pressure stimulation and voluntary movement (A-FR), passive foam rolling with only pressure stimulation (P-FR), and sham rolling with only voluntary movement (SHAM) of the calf muscle. Twenty-seven healthy active adults (males: 16, females: 11) were analysed. Parameters of tissue mechanical properties (as measured by tissue stiffness and thickness) and systemic nervous adaptation (as measured by PPT, stretch tolerance, HRV, and mood states), as well as maximal ankle active/passive dorsiflexion ROM, were measured. ResultsA-FR significantly improved pressure pain threshold, stretch tolerance, and negative mood and increased active and passive ROM. P-FR significantly improved parasympathetic nervous activity and negative mood and increased passive ROM. However, SHAM did not affect any ROM or parameters of tissue mechanical properties and systemic neural adaptation except for some negative mood improvement. ConclusionVoluntary movement does not independently affect ROM, whereas pressure simulation independently enhances ROM during the foam rolling intervention. Combining pressure stimulation and voluntary movement can enhance the ROM effect and influence parameters of tissue mechanical properties and the central nervous system.

The Influence of Ankle Mobility and Foot Stability on Jumping Ability and Landing Mechanics: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Practicing physical activities or sports that involve frequent jumping and landing can strain the muscles and joints of the lower limbs, especially in those who do not have adequate physical preparation. The objective of this study was to (a) determine the correlation between ankle range of motion (ROM) and landing stability following jumps; (b) assess the association between the jump height in a counter-movement jump (CMJ) test and ankle ROM; and (c) examine the connection between stabilometry during specific jumps movements present in many sports and in ankle stabilization. Sixty-two healthy amateur volleyball players participated in the study (age: thirty-seven females and twenty-five males; age (years): 16.5 ± 4.25; height (cm): 166 ± 11.4; weight (Kg): 61.6 ± 13.7). Participants were recruited for the study in collaboration with student sports associations. The evaluations encompassed the measurement of ankle joint mobility for both lower limbs using an inertial sensor, a static baropodometric and stabilometric analysis using a pressure platform, and the CMJ test using the Microgate system. After the assessments, participants performed a "specific jump landing task". Significant correlations were found between foot range of motion (ROM) and counter-movement jump (CMJ) performance. Specifically, the ROM of the right foot had a strong correlation with the CMJ (r = 0.81, p < 0.001), while the left foot ROM showed a moderate correlation (r = 0.46, p < 0.001). The specific jump task revealed substantial changes in stabilometry parameters, particularly during forward hops compared to lateral jumps. Dorsiflexion ROM significantly impacts jumping ability. Evaluating landing patterns and stabilometry during targeted activities can help optimize training, improve dynamic balance, and reduce ankle injury risk.

The relationship between lower extremity range of motion and dynamic balance

&lt;p&gt;目的：本研究欲探討，青少年運動員下肢關節活動度與動態平衡表現的相關性，以及兩者在測量表現上的差異。方法：招募 20 名國高中男性運動員，測量下肢髖關節及踝關節活動度、改良版星狀偏移平衡測試 (modified star excursion balance test, mSEBT) 和 Y 字平衡測試 (Y balance test, YBT)。以皮爾森積差相關係數，比較慣用腳 mSEBT、YBT 與下肢關節活動度之相關性。透過多元迴歸分析，分析下肢關節活動度對 mSEBT 和 YBT 的預測性，以成對樣本 t 檢定比較 mSEBT 和 YBT 之差異。結果：mSEBT 與踝背屈、髖外展和髖外轉活動度呈顯著正相關，前側以踝背屈活動度解釋力最大 (R2 ＝ .506)，後內側 (R2 ＝ .544) 和後外側 (R2 ＝ .399) 以髖外轉活動度解釋力最大。YBT 前側與踝背屈活動度 (r ＝ .519，p &lt; .05)；YBT後外側與髖外轉活動度 (r ＝ .561，p &lt; .05)；YBT後內側與髖外展活動度 (r ＝ .558，p &lt; .05) 呈顯著正相關。mSEBT 和 YBT 在 3 個方向上皆有中至高度相關 (r = .473 - .736，p &lt; .05)，測量距離在前側、後外側和總分達顯著差異。結論：mSEBT 受多關節活動度影響，而 YBT 僅和單一關節活動度有關。mSEBT 和 YBT 雖有中至高度相關，但測量距離表現上並不相同。日後實驗設計及臨床應用上，應考量測試之差異，針對受試者的動態平衡能力，選擇適合的評估方法。&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Purpose: To examine the relationships of lower extremity range of motion (ROM), modified star excursion balance test (mSEBT) and Y balance test (YBT) and to compare the differences between mSEBT and YBT. Methods: Twenty adolescent high school male athletes were recruited to measure hip ROM, ankle ROM, mSEBT, and YBT. Pearson&amp;rsquo;s product-moment correlation coefficient were used to analyze the relationship between lower extremity ROM and dynamic balance. Multiple regression analysis were used to determine the predictors in explaining the variance to dynamic balance outcomes. Paired t test was used to compare the differences between mSEBT and YBT. Results: mSEBT was significantly correlated with ankle dorsiflexion, hip abduction and hip external rotation ROM. Ankle dorsiflexion ROM was the strongest predictor for anterior direction (R2 ＝ .506). Hip external rotation ROM was the strongest predictor for posteromedial direction (R2 ＝ .544) and posterolateral direction (R2 ＝ .399). Anterior YBT was correlated with ankle dorsiflexion ROM (r ＝ .519, p &lt; .05). Posterolateral YBT was correlated with hip external rotation ROM (r ＝ .561, p &lt; .05), and posteromedial YBT was correlated with hip abduction ROM (r ＝ .558, p &lt; .05). There were significant correlations in all three directions between mSEBT and YBT (r = .473 - .736, p &lt; .05). Conclusion: There were significant differences in anterior, posterolateral and composite performance between YBT and mSEBT. mSEBT performance was affected by multi-joint ROM and YBT performance was affected by single-joint ROM. Even though mSEBT and YBT were highly correlated, the absolutely reach distances are different. Future works should consider the differences between two dynamic balance measures and select the proper tool while examining dynamic balance in different sports.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;

Effect of lower extremity joint distraction exercises during warm-up on range of motion, flexibility, and jump performance in female volleyball players

Background and Study Aim. Effective warm-up routines are critical for enhancing athletic performance and reducing injury risk. Joint distraction exercises are hypothesized to improve range of motion (ROM), flexibility, and jump performance, yet their effects are not well-documented in volleyball. This study aims to investigate the impact of joint distraction exercises applied to the lower extremities during warm-ups on ROM, flexibility, and jump performance in female volleyball players. Material and Methods. Twenty-four female volleyball players voluntarily participated in this study. The standard protocol included routine warm-ups followed by pre-tests measuring flexibility, range of motion (ROM), vertical jump (VJ), and horizontal jump (HJ). After a 48-hour rest period to minimize fatigue effects, the athletes underwent joint distraction exercises using elastic bands targeted at the lower extremities. Post-tests were conducted after these specific warm-up exercises to assess any changes. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software Results. The study found no significant difference in hip flexion range of motion (ROM) scores following joint distraction exercises (p &gt; 0.05). However, statistically significant improvements were observed in overall flexibility, ankle dorsiflexion ROM, and both vertical and horizontal jump performances (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusions. The study demonstrates that joint distraction exercises during warm-ups significantly enhance flexibility, range of motion (ROM), and jump performance in female volleyball players. Incorporating these exercises into routine warm-ups could be crucial for optimizing athletic performance and potentially reducing injury risks.

Short-term effectiveness of dry needling on pain and ankle range of motion in athletes with medial tibial stress syndrome- a randomized control trial

ABSTRACT Introduction Medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS) is also called soleus syndrome because the resultant periostitis is localized to the medial insertion of the soleus muscle. This study explores the effectiveness of dry needling (DN) targeting soleus myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) in managing MTSS. Aim To assess the impact of DN on pain reduction and ankle range of motion (ROM) improvement in athletes with MTSS. Study Design This randomized controlled trial (RCT) included 50 university-level athletes. (DN group = 25; control group = 25) Method Outcome variables, pain, and ankle dorsiflexion ROM were measured using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and universal goniometer, respectively. The trial used statistical analyses like Wilcoxon rank test for within-group comparisons and Mann-Whitney U test for between-group comparisons. The trial was registered with the Clinical Trials Registry of India; CTRI/2023/10/058837. Result There were 24 Females (Age = 21.4 ± 2.06) & 26 Males (Age = 20.5 ± 2.35). DN significantly reduced pain in the intervention group from NPRS 7 ± 1.30 to 2 ± 0.87 (p < 0.001), but in the control group, the pain increased from NPRS 7 ± 0.99 to 7 ± 1.05 (p = 0.009). There was no improvement in ankle ROM. Conclusion DN effectively alleviated MTSS-associated pain in the short-term but was not effective in improving ankle ROM.

Relationships between sprint skating performance and insole plantar forces in national-level hockey athletes

BackgroundSprint skating is essential for competitive success in hockey. Previous studies have highlighted various measures of lower-body strength and power as key factors influencing sprint performance. However, while these studies have indicated a significant association between the ability to exert greater force and impulse into the ice surface, and the capacity to achieve faster sprint skating speeds, the direct relationship between these factors remains largely inferred. Research questionWhat are the relationships between insole plantar force variables, sprint skating performance, and their association with physical capacity measures, in national-level male hockey athletes? MethodsAthletes (n=13) performed 25 m sprint skating trials with insole force sensors and completed: ankle dorsiflexion and hip abduction range-of-motion (ROM), countermovement jump (CMJ), seated single-leg jump, and 10–5 repeated-hop test (RHT) assessments. ResultsRelationships were assessed using Kendall’s Tau rank correlations (τ), with significant relationships identified between mean relative weight acceptance impulse [WAI] and 0–5 m (τ=0.47) and total distance (τ=0.46) times. Additionally, significant associations were observed between mean relative WAI and: CMJ relative eccentric deceleration impulse (τ=0.44), CMJ eccentric peak velocity (τ=-0.46) and RHT concentric impulse (τ=-0.56). Finally, significant relationships were identified between mean relative PI for all strides and the 10–20 m split, with peak velocity (PV) (τ=-0.58 to −0.73); and between ankle dorsiflexion ROM and PV (τ=-0.57). SignificanceAthletes with faster initial acceleration and overall sprint performance times demonstrated lower relative WAI during their strides and employed a jump strategy that optimized concentric impulse with a rapid eccentric phase. To attain a high PV the athletes appeared to require a stride that maximized glide and minimized vertical force, with greater ankle dorsiflexion ROM potentially facilitating this.

The relationship between Foot Posture Index and plantar pressure in a community-dwelling adult population with Type 2 diabetes

AimsTo investigate the contribution of foot type to plantar pressures in a community-dwelling adult population with type 2 diabetes. MethodsFoot Posture Index-6 (FPI-6) as a measure of foot type, barefoot plantar pressure (peak pressures and pressure-time integrals), presence of forefoot deformities, peripheral neuropathy, ankle and first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM), and demographic variables were measured. Standard multiple regression models were used to investigate the independent contribution of FPI-6 on plantar pressure variables at the hallux, forefoot, and rearfoot. Results122 adults (mean age 70.9 ± 9.3, n = 58 female) with type 2 diabetes were recruited. A lower (more supinated) FPI-6 significantly contributed to an increased forefoot pressure-time integral (β = −0.285, p = 0.04). FPI-6 was not a statistically significant independent predictor of peak pressure at the hallux, forefoot or rearfoot. ConclusionsWhen screening for at-risk sites of elevated plantar pressure in adults with type 2 diabetes, clinicians should consider performing the FPI-6 along with other clinical measures that have been shown to be associated with increased plantar pressures including first MTPJ dorsiflexion ROM, and presence of digital deformities. Evidence-based treatments to offload these areas should then be considered.

Predicting functional movement capacity in adults: the effect of range of motion and isometric strength

The aim of the study was to determine the role of isometric strength and range of motion in predicting Functional Movement Screen (FMS) scores of adults. A total of 120 participants (age = 34.62 ± 11.82 years; height = 170.56 ± 9.63 cm; weight = 73.62 ± 15.39 kg) volunteered to participate in the study. Anthropometric measurements were performed, including height, body weight, muscle mass, and body fat. Following this, the ranges of motion of the shoulder, hip, knee, and ankle joints were measured sequentially. Isometric strength and FMS tests were then performed. Hip extension isometric strength explained 23% of the variation in FMStotal. The common effect of knee flexion, shoulder flexion, and dorsiflexion joint range of motion explained 34% of the change in FMStotal (F (3−116) = 20.375, p < 0.001). A significant relationship (R = 0.658, R2 = 0.413) was found between hip extension isometric strength, knee flexion, shoulder flexion, and dorsiflexion range of motion and FMStotal (F (4−115) = 21.952, p < 0.001). The common effect of all these variables explains 43% of the change in FMStotal. The results indicate that the FMS test scores, which are utilized to evaluate the risk of injury in sedentary adults, can be significantly predicted by the effect of hip extension isometric strength and parameters related to knee flexion, shoulder flexion, and dorsiflexion joint range of motion. At this time, it is advised that range of motion and isometric strength be taken into account when determining a person’s functional movement capacity.