Upper-extremity Strength Research Articles

Test-retest Reliability and Minimal Detectable Change of Body Function Impairment and Activity Limitation Outcomes Using a Mechatronic Evaluation Designed for Inpatient Stroke Research

Objective: Determine the test re-test reliability and minimal detectable change (MDC) scores for seven precision measures examining upper extremity strength, reaching ability, and the expression of flexion synergy after stroke. The measurements relied on a mechatronic evaluation designed for time efficiency facilitating implementation in inpatient translational research. Design: Observational, analytical, cross-sectional study Setting: University research laboratory Participants25 participants >6 months post stroke with persistent upper extremity body function impairment and activity limitation (12 male, 13 female; age: 56.4 ± 17.8 years; mean time post-stroke: 5.37 ± 7.55 years) were recruited using convenience sampling. InterventionsNot applicable. Main Outcome MeasuresShoulder abduction and elbow extension strength measured as a unit of torque (Nm); normalized reaching distance with the arm under three conditions: supported, against gravity, and against 50% of shoulder abduction strength; flexion synergy takeover and emergence thresholds. ResultsThe intraclass correlation coefficients for the outcome measures were as follows: shoulder abduction strength (0.963), elbow extension strength (0.983), supported reaching (0.982), reaching against gravity (0.968), reaching against 50% abduction strength (0.974), flexion synergy takeover (0.919), and flexion synergy emergence (0.949) thresholds. The MDC, overall mean, and standard deviation were calculated as follows: shoulder abduction strength (5.69Nm, 24.44 ± 10.67Nm), elbow extension strength (5.66Nm, 18.53 ± 15.66Nm), supported reaching (0.07, 0.91 ± 0.20), reaching against gravity (0.15, 0.73 ± 0.30), reaching against 50% abduction strength (0.13, 0.69 ± 0.29), flexion synergy takeover (0.14, 0.91 ± 0.17), and flexion synergy emergence (0.17, 0.56 ± 0.27) thresholds. Conclusions: The mechatronic evaluation, although streamlined from more labor-intensive laboratory evaluations, demonstrates excellent (>0.90) test-retest reliability and MDC scores for seven precision measures of upper extremity body function impairment (weakness and synergy) and activity limitation (reaching).

Age-related changes in gait, balance, and strength parameters: A cross-sectional study.

Longevity is increasing worldwide due to improvements in healthcare and living standards. Aging is often associated with disability and multiple health concerns. To address these challenges, effective interventions are essential. This study investigated potential age-related declines in gait, balance, and strength. We also sought to assess any relationships between these three parameters and explore potential differences between women and men. Healthy individuals over 50 years of age were recruited for this cross-sectional study. Upper extremity (grip) strength and lower extremity (knee) strength of the dominant side were measured. Static balance was performed on the force plate in different situations each for 30 seconds: bilateral stance with eyes open, bilateral stance with eyes closed, as well as dominant leg and non-dominant leg unilateral stance with eyes open. Gait was measured during level walking using an optical motion capture system. Additionally, the dynamic stability margin (DSM) was calculated for the level walking trials. The study results indicated that gait parameters were not significantly affected by age (p≥0.12), while knee and grip strength, along with several balance parameters, showed a significant decline with age. All individuals were able to maintain their bipedal balance, but their center of pressure movement increased significantly by age (p≤0.028). Z-scores were calculated to compare significant age parameters. Unipedal stance time was found to be the most affected by age compared to other contributing factors (p≤0.001). The duration of unipedal balance showed the most significant change per decade (non-dominant: -0.62 SDs; dominant: -0.53 SDs), while strength measures exhibited the lowest amount of change per decade (grip strength: -0.34 SDs; knee strength: -0.26 SDs). Sex differences were observed exclusively in strength parameters, with no discernible impact on the decline in balance parameters. These findings suggest that the duration of unipedal stance can serve as a reliable and gender-independent measure of neuromuscular aging for both elderly male and female subjects.

A 24-Week Combined Resistance and Balance Training Program Improves Physical Function in Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract Jiang, G, Tan, X, Zou, J, and Wu, X. A 24-week combined resistance and balance training program improves physical function in older adults: a randomized controlled trial. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2024—This randomized controlled trial assessed the feasibility of older adults performing combined resistance and balance training (RBT) and compared the effects of RBT on physical function with those of resistance training (RT) alone and with no exercise training in older adults. In total, 65 community-dwelling adults aged 60–74 years were randomly assigned to an RT (n = 22), RBT (n = 22), or control (n = 21) group. The exercise intervention consisted of RT or RBT for 45 minutes, 3 times per week for 24 weeks. The control group engaged in no exercise training. The compliance rates were 93% in the RT group and 92% in the RBT group. No training-related adverse effect was observed. In the RT and RBT groups, dynamic balance (p = 0.017; p < 0.001, respectively), maximum walking speed (p = 0.014; p < 0.001), upper extremity (p = 0.013; p = 0.009) and lower extremity (p = 0.009; p < 0.001) muscle strength, and spirometry (p = 0.043; p = 0.018) were significantly improved at 24 weeks compared with the control group. Only the RBT group showed significant improvement in normal walking speed (p = 0.002). Compared with the RT group, the RBT group showed additional significant improvements in dynamic balance (p = 0.001) and lower limb muscle strength (p = 0.027). The findings of this randomized controlled trial indicated that RBT was safe and feasible for older adults. Long-term RBT had better effects than either no exercise training or RT alone on improving physical function in older adults. Compared with RT, RBT additionally benefited dynamic balance and lower limb muscle function, which are clinically important factors in preventing falls, frailty, disability, and other geriatric syndromes.

Comparison of Core Endurance, Strength, Power, Balance and Flexibility in Young Elite Sailors

Aim: This study examines and compares the core endurance levels, balance performance, muscle strength, and flexibility among young elite saiflors in different sailing classes. Method: Athletes were randomly selected from the Galatasaray Sailing Club and divided into three groups: windsurfing (n=14), optimist (n=13), and laser class (n=13). Demographic features, body mass index, and dominant side of the body were recorded. Upper extremity strength was assessed using a hand dynamometer, while lower extremity power was evaluated through vertical jump, standing long jump, and single-leg jump tests. Core endurance was evaluated with sit-up, plank, and rotary stability tests. Balance and flexibility were assessed using Y balance, straight leg raise, shoulder flexibility, sit and reach, shoulder elevation, and total body rotation tests. The data from the three groups were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis H test, and inter-group comparisons were performed with the Mann-Whitney U test. Results: Significant differences were observed among the groups in the hand grip test for both right and left hands (p<0.001). The laser group displayed the highest mean value. The standing long jump test also showed a significant difference between the groups (p<0.05), with the laser group exhibiting the highest mean value. The single-leg jump test revealed a significant difference among the groups (p<0.05), with the windsurfing group having the highest average. The Y balance test indicated a significant difference among the groups (p<0.05), with the optimist group displaying the highest average values. Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that each sailing class necessitates distinct physical attributes and specific performance parameters, particularly in terms of strength and balance.

A case of MERS presenting with acute motor aphasia and tetraparesis and literature review

BackgroundMild encephalopathy wıth reversible splenial lesions (MERS) are a clinical–radiological diagnosis that can be diagnosed with radiological imaging and can be accompanied by impaired consciousness, aphasia, headache, and paralysis. MERS can be divided into two different types based on radiological findings; Involvement of the splenium is seen in type 1, and involvement of the splenium and deep white matter is seen in type 2. MERS Type 2 is very rare in adults. Here, we describe a patient diagnosed with MERS Type 2 and our therapeutic intervention.Case presentationA 22-year-old woman presented with slurred speech, weakness in the extremities and headache that started 14 h ago. The patient had sore throat and fever of 37.6 °C for 2 days, and medical history or family history were unremarkable. Neurological examination revealed that she was conscious, cooperative, with no signs of meningeal irritation. Speech comprehension, naming, and repetition were preserved, motor examination revealed 5/5 left upper extremity strength, 4/5 right upper extremity strength, and 2/5 bilateral lower extremity strength. Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI-DWI) revealed bilateral deep white matter and splenium symmetrical diffusion restriction. Blood tests showed high C-reactive protein (CRP) and no leukocytosis. No cells were detected in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), protein was 151 mg/dl, glucose was within normal limits. The patient, who developed quadriparesis during follow-up, was started on pulse dose steroids. Neurological examination improved to patient’s baseline at the 12th hour of treatment. In the 72nd hour control MRI-DWI, it was seen that the lesions had regressed. Culture/Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for bacterial/viral infection agents came back negative. After steroids were given for 5 days, patient was discharged at her baseline.ConclusionsMERS is a rare diagnosis in adults and can be radiologically confused with acute toxic leukoencephalopathy. It can be distinguished clinically by the absence of prior infection, fever, and toxic agent exposure. Although there is no consensus in the literature regarding the treatment, the clinical picture improved rapidly after steroid in our case. Despite being rare, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with deep white matter lesions in adults.

Muscle quality index comparisons between Hispanics and non-Hispanic Caucasians using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry and handgrip strength.

Muscle quality index (MQI) can be computed in various ways. Also, many studies have evaluated MQI in older adults and non-Hispanic populations. The aim of this study was to compare various muscle quality indexes between Hispanics and non-Hispanic Caucasians when stratifying grip strength and appendicular lean mass measurements. 235 participants (aged 25.5 ± 9.5 for males and 26.4 ± 9.9 for females) completed a dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan to assess appendicular lean mass (ALM). Handgrip strength (HGS) was assessed using a handheld dynamometer. MQI was computed using four different models: 1). MQIRA: ALM and HGS of right arm and hand, respectively; 2). MQILA: ALM and HGS of left arm and hand, respectively; 3). MQIARMS: ALM and HGS of both arms and hands, respectively; and 4). MQITOTAL: ALM of upper and lower-limbs and HGS of left and right hand. Hispanic males and females exhibited lower HGS compared to Caucasians with effect sizes ranging from trivial (d = 0.17) to moderate (d = 0.80). Females demonstrated higher MQI values compared to males for MQIARMS (d = 0.70), MQIRA (d = 0.75), and MQILA (d = 0.57). However, MQITOTAL yielded a small practical effect (d = 0.33) in favor of males (3.2 ± 0.5 kg/kg vs. 3.1 ± 0.5 kg/kg). After factoring by sex and ethnicity, Hispanic males and females, compared to non-Hispanic Caucasians males and females, showed trivial-to-small practical differences (d values ranging from 0.03 to 0.39). These results demonstrate MQI models vary across sex, particularly when utilizing models that account for upper extremity strength and ALM (i.e., MQIARMS, MQIRA, and MQILA). Lastly, to establish consistency in future research, the present study recommends using MQI models that account for ALM of upper- and lower-limbs (i.e., MQITOTAL). However, research measuring muscular strength via one upper-limb (e.g., left hand) might consider measuring ALM of the corresponding arm (e.g., left arm) when computing muscle quality (e.g., MQILA).

Effects of a circuit training program in improving cardiorespiratory fitness, upper extremity strength, and agility in paraplegic subjects

Exercise and sports may play a crucial role for individuals with disabilities due to their restricted levels of physical activity. Among people with disabilities, engaging in sports and exercise has the potential to notably enhance their physical and physiological functioning. Consequently, the aim of this research was to investigate the effects of a circuit training program on the cardiorespiratory fitness, musculoskeletal strength, and agility of wheelchair users. The study involved 28 participants with paraplegia as a result of spinal cord injury, aged between 19 and 40 years, who were divided into two groups: an experimental group (EG, n = 14) participating in circuit training, and a control group (CG, n = 14) undergoing aerobic upper-body exercise exclusively. All subjects took part in the wheelchair yo-yo test and hand grip test, both conducted at the commencement and conclusion of the training period. The results displayed a significant Time x Group interaction for both variables, indicating a substantial improvement in the intervention group (p < 0.001), while no significant changes were observed in the control group. Therefore, the findings suggest that incorporating circuit training into the daily routine of wheelchair users has a positive impact on their overall well-being, ultimately enhancing their quality of life. Key words: physiology; exercise; sport; spinal cord injuries; cardiorespiratory fitness.

Use of cortical hemodynamic responses in digital therapeutics for upper limb rehabilitation in patients with stroke

BackgroundStroke causes long-term disabilities, highlighting the need for innovative rehabilitation strategies for reducing residual impairments. This study explored the potential of functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) for monitoring cortical activation during rehabilitation using digital therapeutics.MethodsThis cross-sectional study included 18 patients with chronic stroke, of whom 13 were men. The mean age of the patients was 67.0 ± 7.1 years. Motor function was evaluated through various tests, including the Fugl–Meyer assessment for upper extremity (FMA-UE), grip and pinch strength test, and box and block test. All the patients completed the digital rehabilitation program (MotoCog®, Cybermedic Co., Ltd., Republic of Korea) while being monitored using fNIRS (NIRScout®, NIRx Inc., Germany). Statistical parametric mapping (SPM) was employed to analyze the cortical activation patterns from the fNIRS data. Furthermore, the K-nearest neighbor (K-NN) algorithm was used to analyze task performance and fNIRS data to classify the severity of motor impairment.ResultsThe participants showed diverse task performances in the digital rehabilitation program, demonstrating distinct patterns of cortical activation that correlated with different motor function levels. Significant activation was observed in the ipsilesional primary motor area (M1), primary somatosensory area (S1), and contralateral prefrontal cortex. The activation patterns varied according to the FMA-UE scores. Positive correlations were observed between the FMA-UE scores and SPM t-values in the ipsilesional M1, whereas negative correlations were observed in the ipsilesional S1, frontal lobe, and parietal lobe. The incorporation of cortical hemodynamic responses with task scores in a digital rehabilitation program substantially improves the accuracy of the K-NN algorithm in classifying upper limb functional levels in patients with stroke. The accuracy for tasks, such as the gas stove-operation task, increased from 44.4% using only task scores to 83.3% when these scores were combined with oxy-Hb t-values from the ipsilesional M1.ConclusionsThe results advocated the development of tailored digital rehabilitation strategies by combining the behavioral and cerebral hemodynamic data of patients with stroke. This approach aligns with the evolving paradigm of personalized rehabilitation in stroke recovery, highlighting the need for further extensive research to optimize rehabilitation outcomes.

Effects of Electro-Muscle Stimulation Exercise Combined with Mat Pilates on Pain, Anxiety, and Strength in Sedentary Females with Fibromyalgia: A Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial.

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FM) is a chronic pain disorder that is ranked as one of the four most common rheumatological diseases in the world. This study aims to investigate the effects of an eight-week mat Pilates and electro-muscle stimulation (EMS) with combined mat Pilates exercises on pain, depression, anxiety, and strength in sedentary women. This study is a single-blind randomized controlled trial. A total of 30 sedentary female patients (Pilates (n = 15), EMS (n = 15)) diagnosed with FM were included in the study. The patients were subjected to Beck Depression (BDIs) and Anxiety Inventories (BAIs); a Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ); five different Single-Leg Hop Tests (SLHTs); modified push-up (MPU), Handgrip Strength (HGS), Deep Squat (DSQ), V-Sit Flexor, bent-arm hang (BA), sit-up and Biering-Sørensen tests; and anthropometric tests before and after the 8-week exercise program. The eight weeks of mat Pilates exercises combined with mat Pilates and EMS revealed significant results (p < 0.05) in anthropometric data (abdomen, lower abdomen, hips) (p < 0.05) except for the results of chest circumference measurements (p > 0.05). In addition, there were statistically significant positive results in BDIs, BAIs, FIQs, lower extremity (all SLHTs and DSQ), upper extremity (MPU, HGS, BA), and core (V-SIT, sit-up, Biering-Sørensen test) strength test findings (p < 0.05). Combining the mat Pilates exercises with EMS is an effective and reliable method to improve the pain, anxiety, depression, and strength of female patients diagnosed with FM.

The strength of balance: Strength and dynamic balance in children with and without hypermobility.

Generalized Joint hypermobility (GJH) is predominantly non-symptomatic. In fact, individuals with joint flexibility usually perform better than their non-hypermobile counterparts during physical activities. Notwithstanding, strength and balance are essential to maintain the control of the extra range of motion during activities and to prevent musculoskeletal complications. There are limited and conflicting pieces of evidence in literature regarding the association between strength and balance in children with GJH. The purpose of this study was to examine differences in functional strength, dynamic balance, proprioception, and isometric strength in children with and without joint hypermobility and determine the association between strength outcomes and dynamic balance. A cross-sectional study was conducted among children aged 6 to 11. Hypermobility was determined using the Beighton Score, with scores ≥6 representing hypermobility. Functional strength was assessed with the Functional Strength Measure (FSM), isometric strength was determined with a handheld dynamometer (HHD), the Y-Balance Test (YBT) was used to assess dynamic balance and the Wedges test to measure proprioception. This study included 588 participants (age: 7.97 ± 1.3 years; height: 128±10.1 cm; mass: 27.18 ± 7.98 kg). 402 children were classified as having normal mobility and 186 as being hypermobile. Hypermobile children had better functional strength in the lower extremities than children with normal range mobility but lower reach distance in the YBT. No differences in proprioception, functional strength of the upper extremity or isometric strength in the hands were found. However, isometric lower extremity force was less in hypermobile children than children with normal range mobility. Irrespective of their joint mobility, a fair significant correlation existed between total Y-balance distance and FSM items r = 0.16-0.37, p = 0.01. Correlations between total Y-balance distance and isometric strength of knee and ankle muscles ranged between r = 0.26-0.42, p = 0.001. Hypermobile joints seem to co-occur with lower extremity isometric strength, more functional strength in the lower extremities and less reaching distance in dynamic balance. The opposing direction of the results on functional and isometric strength tests highlights the importance of the type of outcome measures used to describe the association of strength and the range of motion.

Effects of a strength program on physical performance in amateur female padel players

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of an explosive strength training program on the physical performance of amateur padel players. Eight females amateur padel players, aged between 25 and 40, were randomly split up in two groups: a control group (CG, n=4) and an experimental group (EG, n=4). The experimental group performed a 6-week explosive strength training program. Physical performance variables were measured before and after the intervention using several assessments: Change of direction was gauged using a modified padel-specific test (Test 505) with the "COD Timer" application. Bilateral and unilateral horizontal jumps, along with the countermovement jump (CMJ), were measured using the "Myjump" application. Upper extremity strength was evaluated through overhead medicine ball throwing. The experimental group showed significant improvements in all analyzed variables except for the bilateral horizontal jump, dis-playing an overall enhancement in their performance following the intervention. These findings contribute to shedding light on this sport, especially within the amateur domain, as most social clubs rely on it for sustenance despite the limited available information.

Effects of vitamin D3 supplementation on strength of lower and upper extremities in athletes: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Coaches and athletes are increasingly interested in understanding athletes' serum vitamin D levels, their impact on strength, physical performance, and athletic outcomes. Previous meta-analyses were reported with limited sample size and no significant overall effect was found. Hence, it is crucial to conduct a thorough and up-to-date systematic examination and meta-analysis to elucidate the potential advantages of supplementing with vitamin D3 in enhancing muscle strength for athletes. We performed a thorough investigation, spanning three databases (PubMed, EBSCO, and Cochrane Library), seeking randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in all languages. These trials delved into the influence of vitamin D3 supplementation on the changes of pre- and post-intervention muscle strength in healthy athletes. Our systematic examination and meta-analysis took into account serum 25(OH)D levels exceeding 30 ng/mL as a marker of adequacy. Ten RCTs, comprising 354 athletes (185 in the vitamin D3 group and 169 in the placebo group), fulfilled the inclusion criteria. During the study, 36 athletes were lost to follow-up, leaving 318 athletes (166 in the vitamin D3 group and 152 in the placebo group) with documented complete results. In comparison with the placebo group, there is a significant increase between the changes of pre- and post-intervention serum 25(OH)D levels among athletes following a period of vitamin D3 supplementation (MD 14.76, 95% CI: 8.74 to 20.77, p < 0.0001). Overall effect of four strength measurements including handgrip, one repetition maximum Bench Press (1-RM BP), vertical jump, and quadriceps contraction was not significantly improved (SMD 0.18, 95% CI: -0.02 to 0.37, p = 0.08), but there was a significant increase in quadriceps contraction (SMD 0.57, 95% CI: 0.04 to 1.11, p = 0.04). This updated meta-analysis indicates the potential benefits of vitamin D supplementation for enhancing muscle strength in athletes when analyzing its quantitatively synthesized effects. With limited available studies for the quantitative synthesis, it cannot warrant significant overall enhancements in muscle strength when athletes attain adequate serum 25(OH)D levels through supplementation.

Effects of a Strength Training Program on Basic Basketball Skills in Wheelchair Basketball Players

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of an upper extremity strength training program on basic basketball skills in wheelchair basketball players. The study consisted of a total of 27 wheelchair basketball players (15 in the training group and 12 in the control group). The basic basketball skills were assessed at the beginning and end of the training program with a slalom test, slalom with ball test, layup test, zone shot test, two-point shot test, and pass for accuracy test. The warm-up part of the strength training included the use of wheelchair and passing exercises with a basketball. The special strength program was applied to the training group three times a week for eight weeks. The control group continued with the routine education program. While there was a statistically significant difference in the slalom, slalom with ball, zone shot, and four-meter and eight-meter pass for accuracy tests in the training group (p0.05). It was determined that the basic basketball skills test of the control group did not yield a difference (p&gt;0.05). At the conclusion this research, it was determined that the upper extremity strength training program planned for wheelchair basketball players for eight weeks positively affected their basic basketball skills. It may be recommended to include this program in the warm-up session of the training program in order to improve sportive performance.

Hand Grip Strength as a Predictive Tool for Upper Extremity Functionality, Balance, and Quality of Life in People With Multiple Sclerosis.

Upper extremity strength and function are rarely assessed in routine multiple sclerosis (MS) care. This study aimed to evaluate hand muscle strength and functionality in individuals with MS and investigate correlations with upper extremity function, cognitive status, health-related quality of life (HRQOL), and balance. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 45 consecutive individuals with MS between the ages of 18 and 65. Upper limb motor strength was evaluated using a hand grip strength dynamometer. Upper limb functional capacity was assessed using the Nine-Hole Peg Test (9HPT) and the Duruoz Hand Index (DHI). Balance, coordination, and falls were measured with the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Falls Efficacy Scale (FES), and the 30-Second Chair Stand Test (30CST). Cognitive function was evaluated using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment instrument and the Symbol Digit Modalities Test. Level of HRQOL was assessed using the self-reported 54-item MS Quality of Life-54 questionnaire. Out of the 45 participants (80% women, mean age 36.6 ± 8.6 years), higher hand grip dynamometer measures were strongly correlated with better DHI, 9HPT, BBS, FES, and 30CST scores. In the regression analysis, a 1-unit increase in dynamometer measures led to a 0.383 increase in overall HRQOL score. This study demonstrates that increased hand grip strength (HGS) is associated with better hand functionality, balance, and HRQOL in individuals with MS. It provides evidence to support more systematic measurement of HGS in the care of people with MS.

A 12-week multicomponent exercise program enhances frailty by increasing robustness, improves physical performance, and preserves muscle mass in older adults with HIV: MOVIhNG study.

Our aim was to analyze the effects of a multicomponent exercise program (MEP) on frailty and physical performance in older adults with HIV (OAWH) since exercise can reverse frailty in the older population overall, but there is no data for OAWH. A prospective longitudinal study with intervention and control group was designed. Sedentary adults 50 or over with and without HIV were included. The intervention was a 12-week home-based MEP. Dependent variables were frailty (frailty phenotype), physical performance (Senior Fitness Test), muscle mass (ASMI) by bioimpedance. Pre- and postintervention measurements were analyzed using McNemar's test for categorical variables and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test for quantitative variables. 40 OAWH and 20 OA without HIV. The median age was 56.5 years. 23.3% were women. The prevalence of frailty was 6.6% with no frail HIV-negative participants. Three of the four frail HIV-participants transitioned two (50%) from frail to prefrail and one (25%) to robust after the MEP. In participants with an adherence ≥50%, physical performance was significantly improved [basal vs. 12 week]: upper extremity strength [13 (13-15) vs. 16 (15-19), p = 0.0001], lower extremity strength [13 (11-16) vs. 15 (13-16), p = 0.004], aerobic endurance [62 (55-71) vs. 66 (58-80), p = 0.005]. Participants with low adherence experienced a significant worsening in ASMI [8.35 (7.44-9.26) vs. 7.09 (6.08-8.62), p = 0.03]. A 12-week MEP enhances frailty by increasing robustness in OAWH, and improves physical performance, and preserves muscle mass in older adults with good adherence to the MEP independently of HIV status.

Comparing shoulder proprioception, upper extremity dynamic stability, and hand grip strength in overhead athletes with and without scapular dyskinesis

IntroductionScapular dyskinesis is prevalent among asymptomatic athletes, particularly those involved in overhead activities, and can significantly impact their neuromuscular control. These changes may impair upper extremity function and strength, elevating the risk of injury. Therefore, it is imperative to investigate how scapular dyskinesis affects shoulder proprioception, upper extremity dynamic stability, and hand grip strength in overhead athletes. This study compared these parameters between overhead athletes with and without scapular dyskinesis. MethodsThe study included twenty asymptomatic professional overhead athletes with scapular dyskinesis and twenty without scapular dyskinesis, identified using the lateral scapular slide test. In this cross-sectional study, shoulder active joint position sense, serving as shoulder proprioception, was measured using an isokinetic dynamometer. Upper extremity dynamic stability and hand grip strength were evaluated using an upper quarter modified star excursion balance test (UQ-mSEBT) and a handheld dynamometer. ResultsThe study found that the shoulder active joint position sense was significantly lower in the scapular dyskinesis group compared to the group without scapular dyskinesis (PExternal Rotation = 0.003, PInternal Rotation < 0.001, and PForward Flexion = 0.002). However, the two groups had no significant differences in UQ-mSEBT and hand grip strength scores. ConclusionsThe results showed that scapular dyskinesis could affect the sense of shoulder active joint position among asymptomatic overhead athletes. However, it did not affect their upper extremity dynamic stability and hand grip strength.

The Effect of Two-Handed Overhead Medicine Ball Throwing Exercises on Upper Extreme Muscle Strength and Kinematic Movement in Soccer Throw-ins

This study aims to analyze the effect of two-handed overhead medicine ball (THOMBT) training on upper extremity muscle strength and kinematic movement. This research utilized an experimental method with a pre-test and post-test design. Sample collection used a random sampling technique. The sampling results were then divided into a control group (CTRL) and an experimental group (THOMBT). The Shapiro-Wilk test and Levene's test were used as prerequisite tests. Paired t-tests and independent sample t-tests were used to compare improvements within and between groups. Statistical significance was set at p &lt; 0.05. Cohen's effect size (ES) was used to measure group differences. A total of 15 players were in the experimental group with an average age of 16.20 ± 0.77 years, while 15 other players were in the control group with an average age of 16.13 ± 0.83. Before and after the four-week trial period, upper extremity muscle strength testing was conducted using push-ups, sit-ups, and kinematic movement tests, which included throwing distance, arm angular speed, and release angle tests. The result is the THOMBT group showed significant improvements in push-ups (p = .000, Δ% = 22.44), sit-ups (p = .000, Δ% = 9.33), distance throws (p = .000, Δ% = 8.20), and arm angular velocity (p = .000, Δ% = 14.98). Meanwhile, the CTRL group did not have a significant increase. The conclusion is that THOMBT training for four weeks is effective in increasing upper extremity strength ability and movement kinematics, but not variable angle of release. Keywords: throws, medicine ball, muscle strength, kinematics movement.

Development and feasibility of a conceptual model for planning individualised physical exercise training (IPET) for older adults: a cross-sectional study

ObjectiveOlder adults constitute a heterogeneous group, and the focus of the individual physical exercise is often subject to the reasoning and experience of health professionals or exercise physiologists who prescribe...

Resistance training effects on healthy postmenopausal women: a systematic review with meta-analysis

The aim of this systematic review with meta-analysis was to evaluate the effects of resistance training on physical fitness, physiological variables and body composition of postmenopausal women. The present systematic review was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement and was registered in PROSPERO. A total of 12 studies were included. The literature search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science and EBSCO. Randomized control trials were included. Two blinded investigators performed the search, study selection and data collection, and assessed the quality and risk of bias. A random-effects model was used for all analyses. Compared to the control group, resistance training produced a significant improvement in maximal oxygen volume (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 2.32, p < 0.001), lower extremity strength (SMD = 4.70, p < 0.001) and upper extremity strength (SMD = 7.42, p < 0.001). The results obtained in the systematic review and meta-analysis confirm the benefits of resistance training on physical fitness in postmenopausal women, although there is more debate regarding its influence on bone mineral density, and anthropometric and derived variables. This work provides a solid starting point for promoting resistance training at a frequency of 3 days per week, in 60-min sessions, with the aim of improving parameters directly related to quality of life, functionality and disease prevention of postmenopausal women.

Comparing the effectiveness of thrower’s specific exercise program with regular warm-up program in recreational cricket bowlers

INTRODUCTION: Thrower’s Ten program is a thrower-specific workout program that increases upper-extremity strength, power, and endurance, especially in overhead athletes. The study compares the thrower's ten-exercise program to the regular warm-up program in recreational cricket bowlers' posterior capsule tightness, internal rotator strength, upper extremity stability, and explosive power.&#x0D; METHODS: Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, 82 recreational cricket bowlers were divided into experimental (n=41) and control (n=41) groups. The experimental group received Thrower's ten warm-up programs three times a week for six weeks, along with the standard warm-up. Control maintained its warm-up routine. Before and after six weeks, participants were tested for shoulder internal rotator strength, posterior capsule tightness, stability, and explosive power. SPSS software was used to calculate outcome measures mean, standard deviation, independent t-test, and paired t-test.&#x0D; RESULTS: After six weeks, all outcome measures exhibited a significant difference (p&lt;0.05) within the experimental group, whereas none of the outcome measures depicted a significant difference (p&gt;0.05) within the control group. A significant difference (p&lt;0.05) was seen between the groups for post-test strength and upper extremity stability measures. However, a non-significant difference (p&gt;0.05) was noted between groups for posterior capsule tightness and upper extremity explosive power.&#x0D; CONCLUSION: Compared to the usual warm-up program used by recreational cricket bowlers, the thrower’s customized warm-up routine is more successful in improving internal rotator strength and upper extremity stability. Both warm-up programs enhance posterior capsule tightness and upper extremity explosive power.