Range Of Motion Testing Research Articles

Effect of improving asymmetry through self-myofascial release in adolescent soccer player with hypomobility syndrome hip: A randomized controlled trial.

Hypomobility syndrome (HMS), or limited hip range of motion (ROM), is often reported in adolescents who train heavily. This study was aimed to investigate the impact of traditional static stretching (STR) and self-myofascial release (MFR) in adolescents with HMS hip. This study was a randomized controlled trial. Adolescent athletes with HMS hip were grouped as 23 STR and 23 MFR. Foam rolling was employed as the training method for MFR. Both interventions were performed twice a day for 20 minutes in 6 weeks. The training was filmed and distributed via the mobile video. Self-assessed Copenhagen Hip & Groin Outcome Score, ROM, strength, and hop tests were measured before and after the interventions. The healthy side without limitations was designated as non-HMS (nHMS) and taken as reference value. The study participants had limitations in flexion (FLX), abduction (ABD), internal rotation (IR), and external rotation (ER). The ROM of STR group was recovered to nHMS level. The FLX and ABD of MFR group was also recovered, however the IR and ER had lower angles compared to nHMS. MFR FLX, ABD, ER strength, and single hop test were restored like that of nHMS, however STR group was substantially lower than nHMS despite the improvements. Both groups depicted lower pre-intervention Copenhagen Hip & Groin Outcome Score subscale activities daily living, sport, and physical activity compared to nHMS. Activities daily living and physical activity were improved to healthy levels after the intervention, however sport was lower than that of nHMS. Both STR and MFR had impact on hip mobility and hip self-assessment score. Furthermore, MFR had strength improvements in FLX, ABD, and ER. However, the improvements in MFR group regarding triples, crossover hops, and self-assessed sports were limited. Therefore, STR and MFR are effective in improving not only ROM but also muscle function asymmetry in HMS hip.

Mechanical design and kinematic performance of an anthropomorphic shoulder rehabilitation exoskeleton

Shoulder rehabilitation exoskeleton is a mechanical device to assist stroke patients in rehabilitation training, remodeling patients' neurological function by strengthening the muscles and promoting the recovery of shoulder function. At present, there are problems such as insufficient degree of freedom (DOF), insufficient overall range of motion (ROM), presence of passive joints, lack of the support of scapulohumeral rhythm (SHR), and poor kinematic synergy with the shoulder. This paper designs a 5-DOF shoulder rehabilitation exoskeleton based on the anatomical structure of the human shoulder and its motion characteristics, takes the 2-DOF shoulder girdle mechanism and the 3-DOF ball and socket mechanism as the main body taking into account the ergonomic factors in design, which ensures the synergistic motion with the patient's shoulder and provides the patient with a wide ROM. After setting up the drive and control system, this paper completes the prototype of the exoskeleton, furthermore, this paper describes the range of motion and kinematic synergy test. ROM tests and kinematic synergy experiments are conducted to evaluate the kinematic performance of this shoulder exoskeleton. The experimental results indicate that the shoulder exoskeleton prototype offers a high level of kinematic synergy with the wearer throughout a broad ROM.

Reliability of range of motion in straight leg raise and hip extension tests among healthy young adults using a smartphone application

IntroductionMeasuring range of motion (ROM) is an important skill for clinicians because it can help in the accurate interpretation of a patient's condition. Recently, ROM tests using smartphone applications have been performed in clinical settings, with the tests demonstrating high reliability and validity. This study aimed to identify the usefulness of ROM tests conducted using smartphone applications by examining the reliability of straight leg raise (SLR) and hip extension (HE) tests. MethodsThis cross-sectional observational study included 72 lower limbs of 36 participants (19 men and 17 women; mean age, 21.6 ± 0.8 years). Passive SLR-ROM and HE-ROM were measured in 1° increments using an iPhone goniometer (IG). Intra-rater and inter-rater reliabilities were calculated using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). ROM test systematic error was confirmed using Bland–Altman analysis, and ROM measurement error was calculated. ResultsThe ICCs of the IG ROM tests were 0.820 or higher. According to Bland–Altman analyses, SLR-ROM and HE-ROM did not acknowledge fixed and proportional biases. Thus, ROM measurement error was calculated as the minimal detectable change (MDC). The intra-rater and inter-rater MDC 95% confidence interval (MDC95) values of SLR-ROM were 3.3° and 10.2°, respectively. The intra-rater and inter-rater MDC95 values for HE-ROM were 3.9° and 9.6°, respectively. ConclusionIG ROM tests were highly reliable, simple, and easy to perform. SLR-ROM and HE-ROM tests conducted using smartphone applications may be useful indices for clinical decision-making.

The effects of static and dynamic stretching on deep fascia stiffness: a randomized, controlled cross-over study

AimPrevious stretching studies mostly investigated effects on the skeletal muscle but comprehensive explorations regarding the role of the connective tissue are scarce. Since the deep fascia has been demonstrated to be sensitive to mechanical tension, it was hypothesized that the fascia would also respond to stretching, contributing to enhanced range of motion (ROM).MethodsForty (40) recreationally active participants (male: n = 25, female: n = 15) were included in the randomized controlled cross-over trial and allocated to different groups performing 5 min static (STAT) or dynamic (DYN) plantar flexor stretching or control condition (CC) in a random order. Pre- and immediately post-intervention, muscle and fascia stiffness, as well as muscle and fascia thickness were measured using high-resolution ultrasound and strain elastography. ROM was assessed in the ankle joint via the knee to wall test (KtW) and goniometer.ResultsSTAT reduced both, muscle and fascia stiffness (d = 0.78 and 0.42, p < 0.001, respectively), while DYN did not reduce stiffness compared to the control condition (p = 0.11–0.41). While both conditions showed significant increases in the KtW (d = 0.43–0.46, p = 0.02–0.04), no significant differences to the CC were observed for the isolated ROM testing (p = 0.09 and 0.77). There was a small correlation between fascia stiffness decreases and ROM increases (r = − 0.25, p = 0.006) but no association was found between muscle stiffness decreases and ROM increases (p = 0.13–0.40).ConclusionOur study is the first to reveal stretch-induced changes in fascia stiffness. Changes of fascia`s but not muscle`s mechanical properties may contribute to increased ROM following stretching.

Running Biomechanics and Clinical Features Among Adolescent Athletes With Lower Leg Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome.

To compare clinical measures between patients with chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) and healthy controls and evaluate running biomechanics, physical measurements, and exertional intracompartmental (ICP) changes in adolescent athletes with lower leg CECS. Cross-sectional case-control study. Large tertiary care hospital and affiliated injury prevention center. Forty-nine adolescents with CECS (39 F, 10 M; age: 16.9 ± 0.8 years; body mass index (BMI): 23.1 ± 2.9 kg/m 2 ; symptom duration: 8 ± 12 months) were compared with 49 healthy controls (39 F, 10 M; age: 6.9 ± 0.8 years; BMI: 20.4 ± 3.7 kg/m 2 ). All participants underwent gait analyses on a force plate treadmill and clinical lower extremity strength and range of motion testing. Patients with chronic exertional compartment syndrome underwent Stryker monitor ICP testing. Symptoms, menstrual history, and ICP pressures of the patients with CECS using descriptive statistics. Mann-Whitney U and χ 2 analyses were used to compare CECS with healthy patients for demographics, clinical measures, and gait biomechanics continuous and categorical outcomes, respectively. For patients with CECS, multiple linear regressions analyses were used to assess associations between gait biomechanics, lower extremity strength and range of motion, and with ICP measures. The CECS group demonstrated higher mass-normalized peak ground reaction force measures (xBW) compared with controls (0.21 ± 0.05 xBW ( P < 0.001) and were more likely to have impact peak at initial contact ( P = 0.04). Menstrual dysfunction was independently associated with higher postexertion ICP (ß = 14.6; P = 0.02). The CECS group demonstrated increased total force magnitude and vertical impact transient peaks. In women with CECS, menstrual dysfunction was independently associated with increased postexertion ICP. These biomechanical and physiological attributes may play a role in the development of CECS.

The Acute and Long-Term Effects of Olympic Karate Kata Training on Structural and Functional Changes in the Body Posture of Polish National Team Athletes.

The aim of this study was to assess the acute and long-term effects of karate kata training on body posture (range of motion (ROM)) and musculoskeletal pain in elite karate athletes. Twelve kata athletes from the Polish national team participated in the study. A cross-sectional study protocol was used, with direct participatory observation (NMQ-7/6 questionnaire, spinal curvatures and spinal ROM testing, ROM of joints) and natural experiment (225 min of kata training) methods of assessment. Age and number of weekly kata sessions were found to correlate with ROM of the lumbar spine (R = (-0.6), p < 0.05). High increase in the prevalence of lumbar hypolordosis and posterior pelvic tilt was noted after karate training sessions. ROM of the inclination in the sagittal plane differed significantly between the first and second trials, by 10.0 degrees on average. Kata stances and their movement pattern seem to be related to the occurrence of disturbances in the ROM of the internal and external rotations of the hip joints and decreased depth of the lumbar lordosis, pelvic tilt, and their ROM. The locations of the long-term musculoskeletal complaints (NMQ-6) seem to result from compensatory changes that occur in the musculoskeletal structures as a result of elite-level kata training.

Cam-Type Impingement: Ensuring an Ideal Femoroplasty

When conservative measures have failed, arthroscopic femoroplasty has proven highly efficacious in treating femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and improving hip joint mechanics. It is best to approach this in a systematic manner with preoperative planning and intraoperative confirmation. Plain radiographs, MRI and/or CT are helpful in the preoperative assessment with identifying the location and shape of the cam deformity. Understanding the extent of the cam lesion prior to surgical intervention will aid in the resection process. The resection can then be confirmed by an intra-operative fluoroscopic exam and arthroscopic dynamic motion evaluation under direct visualization. Using the trough technique, the resection can be marked using the cortical-cancellous border as a depth landmark. When performing the resection, a smooth contour should be performed, with an understanding that both over and under resection can be problematic. Adequate resection should be ensured by testing range of motion, with fluoroscopic imaging, to obtain a circumferential view of the resected area. It is essential to understand how to position the lower extremity in order to obtain different fluoroscopic views of the femoral head neck junction clock-face. Once complete, a thorough irrigation of the joint should be performed to remove bony debris. An ensuing capsular closure should be performed to minimize the risk of iatrogenic hip instability.

CORRELATION OF SHOULDER RANGE OF MOTION WITH LOWER EXTREMITY PERFORMANCE AMONG COMMUNITY-DWELLING OLDER ADULTS

Abstract More than one-third of older adults have mobility limitations. Yet the impact of shoulder dysfunction on lower extremity performance is only nascent in description. We tested the hypothesis that shoulder range of motion (ROM) correlates with lower extremity performance. Data were collected from 26 community-dwelling older women (80.8%) and men aged ≥ 65 years (mean±standard deviation=71.9±5.3 years) enrolled in a pilot study at one time point. Bilateral shoulder ROM testing for forward flexion (FF), abduction (ABD), and adducted external rotation (Add-ER); and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), gait speed (GS), 6-meter narrow walk test (6M-NWT), and stair climb power test (SCPT) were performed. The sum of bilateral FF, ABD, and Add-ER was determined (Total-ROM) for each participant. Spearman’s rank-order correlation (rho) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) was used to measure the strength and direction of correlation for Total-ROM with the mobility outcome measures. The study sample demonstrated Total-ROM, 709.5° ± 80.1°; SPPB score, 10.9 ± 1.3; GS, 1.2 ± 0.2 m/s, 6M-NWT time, 7.3 ± 3.9 s; and SCPT, 240.7 ± 90.7 watts. Total-ROM correlated with: SPPB 0.56 (0.22,0.78), p=0.003; GS, 0.59 (0.27,0.80), p=0.001; SCPT, 0.54 (0.20,0.77), p=0.004; and 6M-NWT, -0.63 (-0.82,-0.33), p&amp;lt; 0.001. The results provided preliminary evidence that shoulder ROM correlates moderately with measures of lower extremity performance in community-dwelling older adults. Future studies are warranted in older populations to test for the longitudinal association of shoulder ROM with lower extremity performance and to determine if treatment of shoulder dysfunction provides effective prehabilitation to mitigate age-related declines in mobility.

Hip Muscle Strength, Range of Motion, and Functional Performance in Young Elite Male Australian Football Players.

Hip and groin injuries are common in field sports such as football, with measurement of hip strength and range of motion (ROM) recommended for assessment of these conditions. We aimed to report hip strength, hip ROM, and functional task performance in young elite Australian football athletes. Cross-sectional study. Fifty-eight newly drafted Australian Football League athletes completed hip abduction, adduction, internal rotation, external rotation, and flexion strength testing with an adjustable stabilized or hand-held dynamometer. Hip internal rotation and external rotation, bent knee fall out, and ankle dorsiflexion ROM were also measured. Players completed hop for distance, side bridge, and star excursion balance functional tests. We compared findings between the dominant and nondominant limbs. We found small deficits unlikely to be clinically meaningful in the dominant limb for hip abduction and adduction strength, and a small deficit in the nondominant limb for external rotation strength and side bridge time. Athletes had lower hip internal rotation (mean difference 2.56°; 95% confidence interval, 0.87 to 4.26) and total rotation ROM (2.03°; 95% confidence interval, 0.06 to 4.01) on the dominant limb. There were no meaningful differences between dominant and nondominant limbs for hip strength, ROM, or functional tests. Our results may be used for benchmarking young male Australian football athletes when targeting optimal strength and returning from injury.

Effects of a Home-Based Stretching Program on Bench Press Maximum Strength and Shoulder Flexibility.

Recent research showed significant stretch-mediated maximum strength increases when performing stretching between 5 to 120 minutes per day with the calf muscle. However, since the practical applicability of these long stretching durations was questioned and studies exploring the transferability to the upper body are scarce, the aim of this study was to investigate the possibility of using a home-based stretching program to induce significant increases in maximum strength and flexibility. Therefore, 31 recreationally active participants (intervention group: 18, control group: 13) stretched the pectoralis major for 15min/day for eight weeks, incorporating three different stretching exercises. The maximum strength was tested isometrically and dynamically in the bench press (one-repetition maximum: 1RM) as well as shoulder range of motion (ROM) performing bilateral shoulder rotation with a scaled bar. Using a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with repeated measures, the results showed high magnitude Time effects (ƞ² = 0.388-0.582, p < 0.001) and Group*Time interaction (ƞ² = 0.281-0.53, p < 0.001-0.002), with increases of 7.4 ± 5.6% in 1RM and of 9.8 ± 5.0% in ROM test in the intervention group. In the isometric testing, there was a high-magnitude Time effect (ƞ² = 0.271, p = 0.003), however, the Group*Time interaction failed to reach significance (p = 0.75). The results are in line with previous results that showed stretch-mediated maximum strength increases in the lower extremity. Future research should address the underlying physiological mechanisms such as muscle hypertrophy, contraction conditions as well as pointing out the relevance of intensity, training frequency and stretching duration.

경부 근긴장이상증에 대한 한의복합치료 효과: 증례 보고

Objectives : This case study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of Complex Korean Medicine Treatment on cervical dystonia. Methods : Complex Korean medicine treatments were conducted on patients with cervical dystonia. To measure and follow up the degree of cervical rotation and side bending malposition, we analyzed X-ray images filmed at the Atlas open mouth view and C-spine AP view every 2 weeks. Range of motion test was conducted every week to evaluate the functional level of cervical spine. Moreover, outcome estimates were performed using the Tsui rating score, numeric rating scale, and pain disability index. Results : After complex treatment, the degree of cervical rotation and right lateral flexion malposition improved. Pain on cervical spine decreased and functional activities of daily living improved. Conclusions : Our study reveals that Complex Korean Medicine Treatment may improve cervical dystonia. In the future, research with a high level of evidence should be conducted to confirm the effectiveness of chuna manual therapy and Korean Medicine Treatment. Our study is expected to be a theorical and clinical background.

The efficacy of sling exercise combined with extracorporeal shock wave on office workers with chronic neck pain.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of extracorporeal shockwave therapy on the anterior surface line of the fascia meridian, including the oblique muscle, combined with sling exercise, on the stability of the spine in the neck disability index (NDI), neck joint range of motion (ROM), craniovertebral angle, neck alignment, and posture control. A total of 20 office workers with chronic neck pain were randomly assigned to an experimental group that combined extracorporeal shock wave therapy and sling exercise (n = 10) and a control group (CG) consisting of sling exercise (n = 10) performed twice weekly for 4 weeks. All subjects were evaluated using the NDI, ROM, neck alignment, and spine stability tests. Following the intervention, there were significant differences in the For example, NDI, craniovertebral angle, Cobb's angle, Centaur data, and ROM. Except for Cobb's angle and Centaur data (-90 degrees), all variables showed significant differences in the CG. Comparing changes before and after the intervention, The For example, showed significantly more significant changes in all variables than the CG. The combination of extracorporeal shockwave therapy and sling exercises improved NDI, ROM, and neck and spine alignment in office workers with chronic neck pain more effectively than the sling exercise alone. This study could be recommended as a new approach to enable individuals with chronic neck pain to perform better.

Shoulder Range of Motion Measurement Using Inertial Measurement Unit—Validation with a Robot Arm

The invention of inertial measurement units allowed the construction of sensors suitable for human motion tracking that are more affordable than expensive optical motion capture systems, but there are a few factors influencing their accuracy, such as the calibration methods and the fusion algorithms used to translate sensor readings into angles. The main purpose of this study was to test the accuracy of a single RSQ Motion sensor in comparison to a highly precise industrial robot. The secondary objectives were to test how the type of sensor calibration affects its accuracy and whether the time and magnitude of the tested angle have an impact on the sensor’s accuracy. We performed sensor tests for nine repetitions of nine static angles made by the robot arm in eleven series. The chosen robot movements mimicked shoulder movements in a range of motion test (flexion, abduction, and rotation). The RSQ Motion sensor appeared to be very accurate, with a root-mean-square error below 0.15°. Furthermore, we found a moderate-to-strong correlation between the sensor error and the magnitude of the measured angle but only for the sensor calibrated with the gyroscope and accelerometer readings. Although the high accuracy of the RSQ Motion sensors was demonstrated in this paper, they require further study on human subjects and comparisons to the other devices known as the gold standards in orthopedics.

Evaluation of Intramedullary Olecranon Screw Fixation for Simple Olecranon Fractures: A Biomechanical Study

The purpose of this study was to biomechanically evaluate the stability of the 6.5 mm intramedullary (IM) olecranon screw compared to locking compression plate fixation for Orthopedic Trauma Association/AO Foundation (OTA/AO) 2U1B1 olecranon fractures under cyclic range of motion of the elbow. Twenty paired elbows were randomized to either IM olecranon screw or locking compression plate fixation of a simulated OTA/AO 2U1B1 fracture. Pullout strength was tested by increasing force applied to the triceps and proximal fragment. Fracture gap displacement was measured using differential variable reluctance transducers as the elbow was cycled through a 135° arc of motion using a servohydraulic testing system. Analysis of variance revealed significant interaction between group and load on fracture distraction after the 500th cycle in three settings: between the plate at 5-pound load and screw at 35-pound load, the screw at 5-pound load and screw at 35-pound load, and between the plate at 15-pound load and screw at 35-pound load. The difference in the rate of failure between plate (2 of 80 samples) and screw (4 of 80 samples) was not statistically significant. For OTA/AO 2U1B1 olecranon fractures, a single 6.5 mm IM olecranon screw demonstrated similar stability when compared to the locking compression plates throughout range of motion testing. From a biomechanical perspective, 6.5 mm IM screws and locking compression plates have similar ability to maintain fracture reduction following simulated elbow range of motion exercises in OTA/AO 2U1B1 fractures, giving surgeons another option in the management of these fractures.

Treadmill exercise post dry needling improves heel rise in patients recovering from surgical ankle fracture: A randomised controlled trial

IntroductionLittle is known about the effectiveness of the dry needling technique (DNT) plus exercise on motor function in musculoskeletal diseases. ObjectiveTo evaluate the effects of treadmill exercise immediately after DNT on pain, range of motion (ROM) and bilateral heel rise test in patients recovering from surgical ankle fracture. MethodA randomised, parallel-group, controlled trial was conducted on patients recovering from surgical ankle fracture. Patients received the DNT intervention for the triceps surae muscle. Then, participants were randomly assigned to the experimental (DNT plus incline treadmill for 20 min) or control group (DNT plus rest for 20 min). Baseline and immediate post-intervention assessments included: visual analogue scale (VAS), maximal ankle dorsiflexion ROM and bilateral heel rise test. ResultsA total of 20 patients recovering from surgical ankle fracture were included. Eleven patients were assigned to the experimental group (mean age 46 ± 12.6 years, 2/9 men/women) and nine to the control group (mean age 52 ± 13.4 years, 2/7 men/women). Two-way ANOVA showed a significant time × group interaction for bilateral heel rise test (F = 5.514, p = 0.030, ηp2 = 0.235). Both groups increased the number of repetitions (p < 0.001), however, the experimental group showed a significant difference compared to control group (mean difference: 2.73 repetitions; p = 0.030). There was no time × group interaction in VAS and ROM (p > 0.05). ConclusionOur results indicate that treadmill exercise after dry needling improves plantar flexors motor function more than rest after dry needling in patients with surgical ankle fracture.

KINESITHERAPY FOR CALCIFYING TENDINITIS OF THE SHOULDER

The accumulation of calcium deposits in the tendons of the muscles of the rotator cuff is the cause of calcifying tendonitis of the shoulder. It is most common in people of working age between 30 and 50 years, expressed in pain in the affected shoulder, both at rest and when moving the arm. This condition makes it difficult to carry out daily activities and worsens the quality of life of patients. The purpose of this report is to present the improved functionality of the affected limb from our kinesitherapy program in combination with extracorporeal shock wave therapy. Material and methods: we examined 20 patients with calcifying shoulder tendinitis, which we divided into two groups - experimental and control, 10 for each. The study was conducted at the Clinic of Orthopedics and Traumatology, University Hospital “St. Marina”, Varna. To illustrate the results, we used a visual analog scale (VAS), ROM ( range of motion) and manual muscle testing (MMT). Results: the kinesitherapy program applied by us in combination with extracorporeal shock wave therapy in the respondents from the experimental group showed better results compared to the control group.

Comparison of Goniometry and Video Analysis in Measuring Shoulder Range of Motion of Collegiate Athletes

Background: The shoulder joint’s multiplanar motion creates a challenge in measurement of range of motion (ROM). Goniometry is currently the most common tool for measuring ROM in the clinic due to its ease of use, but is subjective in nature. Video capture rigs have become popular in all facets of motion monitoring, but they can be limited to large open spaces and user discrepancy. Further, motion capture with wireless wearable inertial measurement units (IMUs) has also become popular but is often cost/implementation prohibitive. Understanding the consistency between these recording methods must be established to understand if a therapy impacts the shoulder complex.&#x0D; Methods: Student athletes with complaints of shoulder pain and decreased ROM in their dominant arm were separated into cohorts receiving twelve therapy sessions. One cohort received chiropractic manipulation therapy and the other received functional movement-based myofascial release therapy combined with chiropractic manipulation. Shoulder ROM was measured via seven standard tests during the first, sixth, and last sessions using goniometry, video capture, and IMUs. Following data collection, results of the measurement techniques were compared.&#x0D; Results: Preliminary statistical analysis conducted between goniometry and video capture indicates measurement techniques differ for three of seven standard ROM tests, pronated flexion, supinated abduction, and internal rotation (p-value ≤ 0.05). Reliability between individuals analyzing video capture is strong, with an ICC of 0.994. This indicates consistency between individuals taking measurement of shoulder ROM using this method. IMU data has been collected with analysis forthcoming.&#x0D; Conclusion: This study is limited by the number of participants (n=4). Preliminary results indicate that consistency in video analysis may make it preferable to standard goniometry. A larger, more comprehensive study is needed to provide conclusive results, including IMU data. These conclusive results could indicate that clinical use of video capture or IMUs should replace standard goniometry if other implementation hurdles can be reduced.

Comparison of Chiropractic Manipulation Therapy and Functional Movement-Based Myofascial Release in Shoulder Range of Motion of Collegiate Athletes: A Pilot Study

Background: Shoulder pain is the third most common presentation of musculoskeletal pain in the clinic with a lifetime prevalence of up to 70%. In athletes, shoulder dysfunction is often due to the extreme forces experienced by the joint during sport participation. Studies have shown that a deficit of 5 degrees in total arc of motion, 20 degrees in internal rotation, and 15 degrees in horizontal adduction can increase an athlete’s chances of injury by a factor of four.&#x0D; Methods: Student athletes with shoulder pain and decreased range of motion (ROM) in their dominant arm were separated into cohorts and received twelve therapy sessions. One cohort received chiropractic manipulation (CM) and the other received functional movement-based myofascial release (FMMR) with CM. ROM of the shoulder was measured during the first, sixth, and last sessions using goniometry and video capture. Cohorts were compared using statistical analyses on data collected.&#x0D; Results: A total of four participants have completed at least the first six sessions of participation in study. Initial results show there is no statistical difference in improvement in shoulder ROM between cohorts. Student T-tests comparing cohorts’ improvements in six of the seven specific ROM tests resulted in no statistical significance (p-values ≤ 0.05). The two participants that completed all twelve intended therapy sessions showed evidence of positive trajectory for increased ROM and qualitatively expressed improvement in shoulder motion.&#x0D; Conclusion: This study shows that there was no statistically significant difference in treating athletes with CM versus FMMR combined with CM. This can mainly be attributed to the study’s current size (n=4). Even with the small participant size, and lack of statistical significance several trends of the individual range of motion measurements provide questions that would benefit from the continuation of the study towards the full cohort participation.

Effects of a mobility and dynamic strength intervention program on the range of motion, strength, and strength asymmetry in people with neck or low back pain

The purpose was to ascertain the effects of a 12-week intervention program based on exercises of mobility and dynamic strength on the stabilization of neck and trunk muscles in people with neck or low back pain according to gender. Forty-two subjects (n = 25 males and n = 17 females; age 49.62±8.82 years) with neck or low back pain completed a recovery-training program focused on improving mobility and strength in the stabilizing muscles of the trunk and neck. A range of motion test, a strength (maximum voluntary contraction) test and the muscle strength asymmetry of the muscle groups analyzed were assessed at the beginning (T1), after six (T2) and after 12 (T3) weeks of intervention. Improvements were seen in nine out of the 12 range of motion variables at T2 (ES=0.52 to 1.26, moderate-high; p&amp;lt;.05) and T3 (ES=-0.28 to -0.44, low; p&amp;lt;.05 or p&amp;lt;.01). Improvements were also evident in all the strength variables at T2 (ES=-0.81, high; p&amp;lt;.01) and T3 (ES=-1.08 to -0.95, high; p&amp;lt;.01). In contrast, in the strength asymmetry variables improvements were found in one out of the five variables analyzed at T2 (ES=-0.81, high; p&amp;lt;.01) and two out of five at T3 (ES=- 1.08 to -0.95, high; p&amp;lt;.01). In conclusion, the intervention was effective for improving range of motion and strength. However, to improve muscle strength asymmetry it may be necessary to include specific exercises.

Clinical, Kinematic and Muscle Assessment of Bilateral Coordinated Upper-Limb Movements Following Cervical Spinal Cord Injury.

Cervical spinal cord injury (cSCI) often results in bilateral impairment of the arms, leading to difficulties in performing daily activities. However, little is known about the neuromotor alterations that affect the ability of individuals with cSCI to perform coordinated movements with both arms. To address this issue, we developed and tested a functional assessment that integrates clinical, kinematic, and muscle activity measures, including the evaluation of bilateral arm movements. Twelve subjects with a C5-C7 spinal lesion and six unimpaired subjects underwent an evaluation that included three tests: the Manual Muscle Test, Range Of Motion test and Arm stabilisation test, a subsection of the "Van Lieshout arm/hand function test". During the latter, we recorded kinematic and muscle activity data from the upper-body during the execution of a set of movements that required participants to stabilize both arms against gravity at different configurations. Analytical methods, including muscle synergies, spinal maps, and Principal Component Analysis, were used to analyse the data. Clinical tests detected limitations in shoulder abduction-flexion of cSCI participants and alterations in elbows-wrists motor function. The instrumented assessment provided insight into how these limitations impacted the ability of cSCI participants to perform bilateral movements. They exhibited severe difficulty in performing movements involving over-the-shoulder motion and shoulder internal rotation due to altered patterns of activity of the scapular stabilizer muscles, latissimus dorsi, pectoralis, and triceps. Our findings shed light on the bilateral neuromotor changes that occur post-cSCI addressing not only motor deficits, but also the underlying abnormal, weak, or silent muscle activations.