Leg Strength Research Articles

Investigation of the Effects of 8-Week Selected Pliometric Training Program on Vertical Jump and Agility in Female Volleyball Players

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of pliometric training on vertical jump and agility in young female volleyball players. Methods: Normal training was applied to the groups and pliometric study protocol was applied to the training program of the training group for 8 weeks. Pre-test and post-test were applied before and after the program. SPSS 25.0 program was used in the analyzes. Descriptive statistics were expressed as frequency (n), average (Mean), standard deviation (SS), minimum (Min) and maximum (Max) values. Independent samples t test was used for comparison of two groups and paired sample t test was used for intragroup comparisons. Statistical significance was evaluated at p <0.05. Results: In the analyzes, A total of 50 female athletes, 25 of whom were in experimental and 25 of which were in the control group, participated in the study. The mean age of the training group was 14,56 ± 1,45 years, body weight was 55,79 ± 7,93 kg and height was 165,6 ± 7,26 cm. The mean age of the control group was 14,88 ± 1,86 years, body weight was 54,4 ± 9,82 kg and height was 164,56 ± 6,59 cm. Pliometric training applications have significant contributions to BF percentage, anaerobic capacity, (p<0,05), vertical jump, leg strength, long jump, hegzagonal test, 505 agility test, Illinois agility test, and back strength (p<0,001) level of significance. Conclusions: It was concluded that it will contribute to strength development by decreasing the intensity in sports branches and middle school Physical Education classes which require strength and agility, especially in volleyball and in many branches in training programs and through game training and pliometric exercises. Keywords: Development, Pliometric Training, Training, Volleyball.

Neuromuscular characteristics of front and back legs in junior fencers

In elite fencers, muscle strength and muscle mass of the front leg (FL) are greater than those of the back leg (BL) due to characteristic physiological and biomechanical demands placed on each leg during fencing. However, the development of laterality in their neural and muscular components is not well-understood. The present study investigated neuromuscular characteristics of FL and BL in junior fencers. Nineteen junior fencers performed neuromuscular performance tests for FL and BL, separately. There were no significant differences in the isometric knee extension strength (MVC), unilateral vertical jump (UVJ), vastus lateralis muscle thickness (MT), or motor unit firing rate of the vastus lateralis muscle (MUFR) between FL and BL (p > 0.05). In subgroup analyses, a significantly greater MUFR in FL than BL was noted only in fencers with > 3 years of fencing experience, and significantly greater UVJ in FL than BL was observed solely in fencers with < 3 years of fencing experience (p < 0.05). Strong positive correlations between FL and BL were identified in MVC, MT, and MUFR in fencers with > 3 years of fencing experience, but not in those with < 3 years of experience. These findings suggest that in junior fencers, laterality in neuromuscular performance has not manifested, whereas longer fencing experience induces fencing-dependent laterality in neural components, and laterality in dynamic muscle strength is decreased with fencing experience.

HUBUNGAN POWER TUNGKAI DAN KESEIMBANGAN TERHADAP KETEPATAN SHOOTING PEMAIN SSB LAMPUNG FOOTBALL SCHOOL BANDAR LAMPUNG

The purpose of this study was to determine the extent of the athlete's leg strength ability, to determine the extent of the athlete's balance ability, to determine the athlete's kicking ability and accuracy. The method used is a literature study, the research subject of SSB Lampung Football School players. The techniques used for data collection are standing long jump, standing stroke test, and shooting Bobby Charlton. The analysis in this study uses normality test, linearity test and correlation test. Keywords: Soccer, Leg Power, Shooting Accuracy

Taekwondo Tekme Performansını Etkileyen Faktörlerin Belirlenmesi

Bu çalışmanın amacı, taekwondo tekme sürati ve çabukluğu ile ilişkili fiziksel, antropometrik ve motorik özelliklerin belirlenmesidir. Çalışma, en az 1. dan/pum kemer seviyesinde, lisanslı ve aktif yarışmacı 21 elit erkek sporcunun gönüllü katılımı ile yapıldı. Sporcuların tekme performansı ile ilgili olabilecek fiziksel ve antropometrik özelliklerinin tespiti amacıyla boy uzunluğu, vücut ağırlığı, vücut kitle indeksi, bacak boyu ve uyluk çevresi ölçümleri yapıldı. Sporcuların tekme sürati ve çabukluğuna ait performansları Taekwondo Performans Protokolü (TPP) ile, motor beceri performansları sırt kuvveti, bacak kuvveti, 20 m sürat, illinois çeviklik, dikey sıçrama ve anaerobik güç testleri ile tespit edildi. Elde edilen bulgular, sporcuların tekme performansları ile antropometrik özellikleri (ICC: 441-856; p

The optimal cutoff score of the 2-min step test and its association with physical fitness in type 2 diabetes mellitus.

This study was carried out to evaluate sensitivity, specificity, and test cutoff score to predict cardiorespiratory fitness by using the 2-min step test (2MST) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellites (DM). The association of the 2MST and physical fitness tests including a 6-min walk test (6MWT), a 5 time sit-to-stand test (FTSST), and leg strength in the form of a leg performance test were also investigated. This study was cross-sectional and conducted in 100 type 2 DM patients. Patients were screened through health questionnaires, medical illness, general characteristics, and physical fitness tests; 2MST, 6MWT, FTSST, and leg strength. Blood was collected for assessment of fasting blood sugar and lipid profiles. The number of steps in the 2MST was positively correlated with the distance of the 6MWT (r=0.6995, P<0.0001) and leg strength (r=0.4292, P<0.0001). 2MST was negatively correlated with time to perform the FTSST (r=−0.405, P<0.0001). Moreover, this study established the optimal cutoff score of the 2MST at ≤61 steps with 92.24% sensitivity, and 81.36% specificity to predict cardiorespiratory fitness in type 2 DM patients. Our findings indicate that the 2MST may be used as a predictor for walking capacity, leg strength, and ability to change position from sitting to standing in type 2 DM. In addition, this result may imply that patients with type 2 DM performing the 2MST at less than 61 steps was significantly associated with decreased cardiorespiratory fitness.

Feasibility and Safety of Whole-Body Electromyostimulation in Frail Older People-A Pilot Trial.

Whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) induces high-intense stimuli to skeletal muscles with low strain on joints and the autonomic nervous system and may thus be suitable for frail, older people. However, if trained at very high intensities, WB-EMS may damage muscles and kidneys (rhabdomyolysis). This study aimed at investigating the feasibility, safety and preliminary efficacy of WB-EMS in frail, older people. Seven frail (81.3 ± 3.5 years), 11 robust (79.5 ± 3.6 years), 10 young (29.1 ± 6.4 years) participants completed an eight-week WB-EMS training (week 1–4: 1x/week; week 5–8: 1.5x/week) consisting of functional exercises addressing lower extremity strength and balance. Feasibility was assessed using recruitment, adherence, retention, and dropout rates. The satisfaction with WB-EMS was measured using the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale for older adults (PACES-8). In week 1, 3, and 8 creatine kinase (CK) was assessed immediately before, 48 and 72 h after WB-EMS. Symptoms of rhabdomyolysis (muscle pain, muscle weakness, myoglobinuria) and adverse events were recorded. Functional capacity was assessed at baseline and after 8 weeks using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), Timed Up-and-Go Test (TUG), Choice Stepping Reaction Time Test (CSRT), 30-second Chair-Stand Test (30-STS), maximum isometric leg strength and handgrip strength. The recruitment rate of frail individuals was 46.2%, adherence 88.3% and the dropout rate 16.7%. All groups indicated a high satisfaction with WB-EMS. CK activity was more pronounced in young individuals with significant changes over time. Within older people CK increased borderline-significantly in the frail group from baseline to week 1 but not afterwards. In robust individuals CK increased significantly from baseline to week 1 and 3. No participant reached CK elevations close to the threshold of ≥5,000 U/l and no symptoms of rhabdomyolysis were observed. With the exception of the TUG (p = 0.173), frail individuals improved in all tests of functional capacity. Compared to the young and robust groups, frail individuals showed the greater improvements in the SPPB, handgrip strength, maximum isokinetic hip-/knee extension and flexion strength. WB-EMS is feasible for frail older people. There were no clinical signs of exertional rhabdomyolysis. WB-EMS proved to be sufficiently intense to induce meaningful changes in functional capacity with frail individuals showing greater improvements for several measures.

Effects of strength training on the biomechanics and coordination of short-term maximal cycling

ABSTRACT The aim was to investigate the effects of a gym-based strength training intervention on biomechanics and intermuscular coordination patterns during short-term maximal cycling. Twelve track sprint cyclists performed 3 × 4 s seated sprints at 135 rpm, interspersed with 2 × 4 s seated sprints at 60 rpm on an isokinetic ergometer, repeating the session 11.6 ± 1.4 weeks later following a training programme that included two gym-based strength training sessions per week. Joint moments were calculated via inverse dynamics, using pedal forces and limb kinematics. EMG activity was measured for 9 lower limb muscles. Track cyclists ‘leg strength” increased (7.6 ± 11.9 kg, P = 0.050 and ES = 0.26) following the strength training intervention. This was accompanied by a significant increase in crank power over a complete revolution for sprints at 135 rpm (26.5 ± 36.2 W, P = 0.028 and ES = 0.29). The increase in leg strength and average crank power was associated with a change in biceps femoris muscle activity, indicating that the riders successfully adapted their intermuscular coordination patterns to accommodate the changes in personal constraints to increase crank power.

A Comparative Study on Explosive Strength and Reaction ability between Female Kabaddi and Kho Kho Players

Background: Competitive game requires high level of skill related fitness including reaction time and explosive strength in kabaddi and kho-kho games to perform frequently higher level of performance. Objective: The purpose of the study is to find out the difference of explosive strength and reaction ability between junior level female kabaddi and kho kho players. Method: Fifty junior level female kabaddi players and fifty kho kho players were requited in this study from different sports club in West Bengal. The age of the subjects ranged between 14 to 16 years. Explosive strength and reaction ability was considered as variables and which was measured by standing broad jump and nelson hand reaction test respectively. Result: The obtained results show that significant difference found in explosive strength (p=0.05) and reaction ability (p=0.03) between female kabaddi and kho kho players. It is also found that the explosive strength (1.67±0.17) and reaction ability (3.28±1.49) of the kho kho players are higher in comparison to kabaddi players (1.56±0.12 and 5.19±1.74). Conclusion: It is concluded that there are significant differences found in explosive strength and reaction ability between female kabaddi and kho kho players. It is also found that kho kho players have a better leg strength and reaction ability in contrast to kabaddi players.

Upper thoracic spondylitis tubercolosis treated by posterior approach only: A case report.

Introduction and importanceMycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) causes an infectious disease called tuberculosis which affects lung and other site of body. Spinal tuberculosis accounts for about half of all occurrences of skeletal tuberculosis. Patients with upper thoracic spinal TB are at an increased risk of severe spinal cord injury and kyphotic deformity, which may require surgery. Several treatment modalities include debridement, chemotherapy treatment, and decompression of the spinal twine and nerves.Case presentationA female patient, 45 year old, came with inability to walk for 2 months. Pain had started for 1 year and it was getting worse until motor strength of both leg diminished. The patient was diagnosed spondylitis tuberculosis of thoracal 2nd ASIA B with myelopathy. We performed posterior instrumentation of Th1-Th3 continuous with decompression by laminectomy and transpedicular debridement. There was no neurological injury, wound infections, and other complications after the surgery. Outcome of the surgery was evaluated on 1 months after surgery.Clinical discussionThe patient has good motor function one month following the operation. Without assistance, the patient could rise and take a few steps. Furthermore, the patient felt better overall and no longer had back discomfort, indicating that the surgery also had good results.ConclusionPosterior approach is feasible for internal fixation, debridement, and fusion in this case. It is minimal traumatic, good correction rate and prevents the progression of kyphosis. The spinal cord also can be decompressed with satisfactory result.

Impact of a Six-Week Prehabilitation With Blood-Flow Restriction Training on Pre- and Postoperative Skeletal Muscle Mass and Strength in Patients Receiving Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Introduction: Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) is one of the most successful interventions in gonarthrosis, however the operation is leading to muscle atrophy and long-term muscular deficits. To enhance rehabilitation after TKA, exercise programs try to improve muscle function preoperatively, called prehabilitation. Blood-Flow-Restriction Exercises (BFRE) is a training method which is characterized by using tourniquets to reduce arterial and occlude venous blood flow simultaneously during the exercise to increase metabolic stress. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of a 6-week prehabilitation with BFR on pre- and postoperative muscle mass, strength, and quality of life (QoL). Methods: 30 patients with end-stage gonarthrosis participated in this study. Patients were randomized into one of three groups: 1) Control-Group (CON): Standard clinical approach without prehabilitation. 2) Active-Control-Group (AC): Participation in a prehabilitation with sham-BFR. 3) BFR-Group (BFR): Participation in a prehabilitation with BFR. The prehabilitation protocol consist of a cycling-ergometer-based training performed twice per week over 6 weeks. During exercise, BFR was applied periodically three times per leg with a pressure of 40% of the individual-limb-occlusion-pressure. Measurement time points were six- (baseline), 3-weeks and 5-days before the surgery (Pre-OP), as well as three- and 6-months postoperatively. Outcome measures were muscular strength of the thigh muscles, thigh circumference as well as QoL and functional activity, examined by 6-min walking- and chair rising test. Results: Both training groups indicated significantly improved leg muscle strength following the prehabilitation period with a superior effect for the BFR-group (BFR: ∼170% vs. AC: ∼91%, p < 0.05). No significant changes in leg strength occurred in the CON (∼3%, p = 0.100). Further, patients in BFR-group indicated significantly improved skeletal muscle mass assessed by femoral circumference following prehabilitation period (∼7%, p < 0.05), while no significant changes occurred in the CON (−1.14%, p = 0.131) and AC-group (∼3%, p = 0.078). At 3-months Post-OP, the CON and BFR-group revealed a significant decrease in femoral circumference compared to the Pre-OP (CON: ∼3%, BFR: ∼4%; p < 0.05), but BFR-group remained above the baseline level (∼3%, p < 0.05). No significant change in femoral circumference was found for AC-group (∼2%, p = 0.078). In addition, the prehabilitation with BFR provided notably improved Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores (KOOS) especially in pain perception with significant higher effect compared to other groups (CON: −2%, AC: 13%, BFR: 41%; p < 0.05). In long-term rehabilitation after 6-months, all groups showed significantly improved KOOS scores in all dimensions (CON: ∼110%, AC: ∼132%, BFR: ∼225%; p < 0.01), and functional examinations (CON: ∼26%, AC: ∼16%, BFR: ∼53%; p < 0.01). Conclusion: The present findings show that BFR-prehabilitation induce significant improvements in muscle function and QoL before TKA surgery. In addition, the supporting effect of prehabilitation on postoperative regeneration and QoL should be highlighted, illustrating prolonged beneficial effects of BFR on muscular and functional performance in a “better in, better out”-manner.

Feasibility randomized controlled trial of a virtual reality exergame to improve physical and cognitive functioning in older people

Background: Falls risk becomes more common with age and is associated with higher rates of disability, mortality, and healthcare costs. Exergames have shown to elicit improvements in prefrontal cortex activity, balance, and postural control of seniors, all of which are associated with fall risk, but it is unknown whether virtual reality (VR) exergames, played using a three-dimensional headset can enhance the effects of cognitive and physiological functioning. Objective: Evaluation of the effects of a co-produced VR exergame "Falling diamonds" on physical performance, trunk stability and cognition, three attributes linked to falls risk in seniors. Methods: A total of 44 physically active participants aged 60-85 years were randomized to either the immersive VR exergame (n = 14), non-immersive exergame (n = 15), or control (n = 15). Static balance, leg strength, and gait speed were measured by the Short Physical Performance Battery, trunk stability was assessed using the Prone test and cognition was evaluated by the RehaCom screening software at baseline and follow-up at 9 weeks. Results: The VR exergame group experienced greater improvements in the cognition measures of selective attention control and speed (p = .009, p = .033) more than the exergame group (p = .010) and control (p = .049, p = .004). Conclusions: The evaluation and delivery methods of VR exergame Falling diamonds are feasible, and trial measures, procedures, and intervention are deemed acceptable by participants. Our findings indicate that using a VR exergame to exercise could improve cognition in seniors.

Consequence of plyometric training on speed and leg strength among volley ball players

Study participants were asked to determine the effect of plyometric training on speed and leg strength among volleyball players. In this experiment, 30 male volleyball players aged between 17 and 21 who are enrolled at PSNA Dindugal in Tamil Nadu were selected to participate. Each of the plyometric training and control groups was divided equally into fifteen individuals. With progressive increases in the load with subsequent weeks, the plyometric training group trained three days alternately in a week for eight with three sets of exercises per session at 60% to 80%. As criterion variables, speed and leg strength were assessed using 50 meter dashes and dynamometer leg lifts respectively. We used an ANCOVA to determine if there was a significant difference in speed and leg strength between the plyometric training group and the control group.

Effect of isometric and isotonic training on explosive strength

The current study's goal was to look into how isotonic and isometric training affected explosive strength. 60 male students from the Department of Physical Education at C.D.L.U. Sirsa (Haryana) were chosen for the study in order to accomplish this goal. The chosen subjects, such as physical exertion and isometric coaching, and management cluster, were separated into three equal teams of twenty subjects each. First Group undertook an isotonic training programme, Group II underwent isometric coaching for twelve weeks on three days per week, and Group III served as the management cluster, participating in only their usual educational activities in accordance with their curriculum. Leg strength was chosen as the next criterion variable, and it was assessed using the leg raise technique with dynamometer. The study's aim was to investigate the effects of isometric and isotonic training on leg strength. On a specific criterion variable, all the topics for the three teams were examined during, before, and right after the coaching programme. The analysis of variance was used to determine whether there were any significant differences between the teams. At a confidence level of 0.05, the degree of significance was examined in regard to the 'F' magnitude connection discovered by the analysis of variance. According to the study's findings, there was a substantial difference in leg strength between the coaching cluster and management cluster in isotonic and isometric exercises. Additionally, it was discovered that isometric and isotonic exercises significantly improved leg strength.

The Relationship between Respiratory Muscle Strength and Physical Performance in College Volleyball Players

Physical performance and respiratory muscle strength are the effective factors that influence sport competence. This study aimed to determine the relationship between respiratory muscle strength and leg strength, power, speed, and agility in college volleyball players. Twenty-eight college volleyball players (age: 20.79±1.71 years; body mass index: 23.22±3.48 kg/m2; sport experience: 4.68±2.21 years; training frequency: 4.43±1.26 days/week) were included into the study. Maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressure (MIP and MEP) tests were performed using a mouth pressure meter for respiratory muscle strength assessment. Leg muscle strength and power were measured using a back and leg dynamometer and a Yardstick device, respectively. The 10-meter sprint test was performed to assess speed performance. Agility was measured by the agility T-test. MIP was positively correlated with leg strength (r=0.406; p=0.032), while it was negatively correlated with speed, and agility (r=-0.416; p=0.028, r=-0.469; p=0.012, respectively). There was no relationship between MIP and power (p=0.197). For MEP, it was negatively correlated with speed (r=-0.392; p=0.039). Other parameters of physical performance were not significantly correlated with MEP (p&gt;0.05). In the light of the results, muscle strength, speed, and agility of college volleyball players develop parallel to respiratory muscle strength, particularly inspiratory muscle. Thus, it is believed that inspiratory muscle training should be added to exercise training programs for enhancing players’ physical performance.

Exercise Intervention as a Therapy in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus and Sarcopenia: A Meta-Analysis.

IntroductionSarcopenia is defined as a progressive and generalized muscle disorder that involves accelerated loss of muscle mass and impaired function. It is believed to influence the ability to carry out daily activities, muscle strength, and physical capacity in the elderly. Studies have shown that sarcopenia has been implicated as both a cause and a consequence of diabetes mellitus. In this analysis, we aimed to systematically show the impact of exercise intervention as a therapy for patients with diabetes mellitus and sarcopenia.MethodsElectronic databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane database, were searched from November to December 2021 for publications based on exercise intervention in patients with sarcopenia. After the selection of studies for this analysis, patients with diabetes mellitus were retrieved. Since dichotomous data including mean and standard deviation were reported, weighted mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to represent the data following analysis.ResultsA total of 431 participants with diabetes mellitus and sarcopenia were included in this meta-analysis. A statistical analysis was carried out on patients with diabetes mellitus who were assigned to the exercise intervention group. Our analysis showed that “sit-to-stand test” and “timed up and go” were significantly in favor of exercise intervention: MD −1.57, 95% confidence interval (CI) −2.26 to −0.87 (P = 0.0001) versus MD −0.61, 95% CI −1.21 to −0.01 (P = 0.05), respectively. Handgrip strength, walking speed and leg strength were also assessed. Another statistical analysis was carried out, this time on patients with diabetes mellitus and sarcopenia who were not assigned to an exercise intervention. The results showed no significant difference among sit-to-stand test, timed up and go, handgrip strength, and leg strength.ConclusionExercise intervention significantly improved the time taken to stand up from a sitting position, and to “stand up and go” in patients with diabetes mellitus and sarcopenia. Therefore, exercise intervention should be considered a relevant therapy for such patients.

Comparison of explosive leg strength and hand grip strength among collegiate badminton and tennis players

Introduction: Tennis and Badminton are popular sports of all ages of group. Although there are numbers of studies examining collegiate players. Hand grip strength is also important component for badminton and tennis players, but not much comparative studies done on explosive leg strength among Badminton and Tennis players.Purpose of Study: Comparison of Explosive Leg Strength and Hand Grip Strength among Collegiate Badminton and Tennis Players.Methodology: This study will examine comparison of explosive Leg Strength and Hand Grip Strength between collegiate Tennis and Badminton players. For Explosive Leg Strength, Standing Broad Jump test was used and for Hand Grip Strength, Hand held dynamometer was used.Result: There is no significant difference seen in Standing Broad Jump test (F = 0.014) and significant difference was seen in hand grip Strength between collegiate tennis and Badminton Players. (F = 0.335).

Progressive machine-based resistance training for prevention and treatment of sarcopenia in the oldest old: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

The muscle disease sarcopenia, which is characterised by a loss of muscle strength, muscle quantity, and physical performance, restricts mobility and independence in an ageing society. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to analyse the effects that long-term progressive resistance training interventions performed on weight machines have on sarcopenia (European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People) and how the interventions are composed. In total, 779 articles published between 2000 and 2020 were scanned (PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL) and 14 randomised controlled trials were included within the review. Populations, interventions, control groups and outcomes were analysed. Subsequent meta-analysis (10 studies, 902 participants) revealed that the time needed in a chair-stand-test, as an indicator for leg strength, was predominantly reduced, whereas grip strength remained unchanged after the interventions. Data concerning the effects of machine-based progressive resistance training on muscle quantity were insufficient for meta-analysis. Physical performance measured by undergoing the Timed-Up-and-Go-test, gait speed test, Short Physical Performance Battery and 6min-walk-test improved significantly as well. The quality of evidence (GRADE) in the analysed studies was low or moderate. In summary, machine-based progressive resistance training has the potential to reverse sarcopenia in the oldest old, as reflected by enhanced muscle strength and physical performance. The systematic review revealed promising initial results for muscle quantity.

Does Blood Flow Restriction Therapy Improve Leg Strength in Patients With a Painful Total Knee Arthroplasty?

Blood flow restriction (BFR) therapy has been proposed to help patients build strength with fewer repetitions than standard physical therapy (PT). We sought to determine if BFR would improve quadriceps and hamstring strength in patients with instability and perceived weakness >1 year after primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We retrospectively reviewed 48 patients with painful TKAs and flexion instability as well as quadriceps and hamstring weakness who performed a 6-week PT program and received isokinetic strength measurements (ISMs). Thirty-six patients completed a standard PT program (non-BFR) and 12 patients completed a BFR regimen. ISMs were taken before and after PT to quantify quadriceps and hamstring power, torque, and work compared to the contralateral leg. Statistical analysis was conducted on pre-PT and post-PT ISMs and decisions for revision surgery. There were no differences in ISMs after PT between the BFR and non-BFR groups. The non-BFR group showed statistically significant strength improvements in flexion but not extension (+28.7%-32.8%, P= .0145-.255). Although no significant difference was found in the BFR group, they saw improvements in all extension strength metrics (19.4%-23.4%, P= .3315-.3901) and flexion (25.7%-29.9%, P= .1994-.2392). No difference was observed between the groups in the rates of subsequent revision TKA (8.3% vs 16.7%, P= .3362). BFR did not improve quadriceps and hamstring strength compared to PT alone in patients with instability and weakness after TKA. Over 80% of total patients chose to avoid revision TKA after completion of focused PT with or without BFR.

A Comparison of Left and Right Leg Static Balance Parameters in Young Handball Players

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare left and right leg balance parameters in young female handball players. Methods: 13 athletes (age: 15.07±0.19 years, height: 162.23±5.70 cm, weight: 57.38±4.39 kg, BMI 21.92±0.23 kg/m², training age: 4.23±1.36 years) volunteered for the study. Normality test of the data was done using Shapiro-Wilk test, and variation homogeneity was tested using Levene’s Test of Homogeneity of Variance. When the data showed non-parametric characteristics, Mann Whitney U-Test was used; when it was parametric, Independent Sample Test was used. SPSS 17 Software was used for statistical analysis, and the significance was determined as p≤0.05. Results: The results showed that when mean speed of left and right leg forward-backward velocity of the athletes was analysed, a significant difference was found in favour of the right leg (p≤0.05). Furthermore, a significant difference was found in favour of the right leg between means of the left and right leg perimeter of the athletes (p≤0.05). However, there found no difference between means of the left and right leg lateral velocity and ellipsis area of the athletes (p≥0.05). Conclusion: These results may show that due to the training ages of the athletes (4 years), branches of the athletes did not affect the results and their improvement were still in progress. It could also be due to the dominant leg of all the athletes being their right leg and/or due to the differences in their leg strength. The most important limitation of this study could be the fact that leg strength values were not included in the study. Generally, in handball, when the dominant arm of the athlete is their right, the leg at the opposite side is the one used for jumping. Nevertheless, in individual leg balance tests done with both legs, it is expected there be no difference between the values. For these differences not to cause any sport injuries and not to negatively affect the technical move performances, it is advised that coaches have lower extremity strength and balance exercises symmetrically done.

The Live Long Walk Strong Rehabilitation Program Study: Design and Methods

ObjectiveTo identify attributes targeted by rehabilitative treatment within which improvements lead to short- and long-term changes in mobility. Maintaining independence in mobility is important to many older adults and is associated with critical outcomes such as aging in place, morbidity, and mortality. DesignThe Live Long Walk Strong rehabilitation study is a phase 2 single-blind, randomized controlled trial. SettingVeterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, outpatient physical therapy. Participants198 community-dwelling middle- and older-aged veterans (aged 50 years and older) will be recruited from primary care practices (N=198). InterventionsComparing a moderate-vigorous intensity physical therapy program of 10 sessions with a waitlist control group. Main Outcome MeasureThe primary outcome measure is gait speed. Secondary outcomes include leg strength and power, trunk muscle endurance, gait smoothness, and exercise self-efficacy. ResultsOutcomes will be assessed within 2 weeks of intervention completion, at 8 weeks postintervention, and at 16 weeks postintervention. Two-sample t tests will compare mean change in gait speed and target attributes (leg power, trunk muscle endurance, gait smoothness, and exercise self-efficacy) between treatment and control groups. Paired t tests will examine within-person change at subsequent follow-up visits. Multivariable regression analyses will evaluate relationships between dependent and independent variables and potential mediation adjusting for relevant covariates. ConclusionsResults of this study are expected to advance and refine the design of Live Long Walk Strong rehabilitative care and demonstrate its proof of concept and efficacy.