Muscle Strengthening Research Articles

Residual kinematic deviations of the shoulder during humeral elevation after conservative treatment for mid-shaft clavicle fractures.

Despite residual functional deficits clinically observed in conservatively treated mid-shaft clavicle fractures, no study has reported a quantitative assessment of the treatment effects on the kinematics of the shoulder complex during functional movement. Using computerised motion analysis, the current study quantified the 3D residual kinematic deviations or strategies of the shoulder complex bones during multi-plane elevations in fifteen patients with conservatively treated mid-shaft clavicle fractures and fifteen healthy controls. Despite residual clavicular malunion, the patients recovered normal shoulder kinematics for arm elevations up to 60° in all three tested planes. For elevations beyond 60°, normal clavicle kinematics but significantly increased scapular posterior tilt relative to the trunk was observed in the patient group, leading to significantly increased clavicular protraction and posterior tilt relative to the scapula (i.e., AC joint). Slightly different changes were found in the sagittal plane, showing additional changes of increased scapular upward rotations at 90° and 120° elevations. Similar kinematic changes were also found on the unaffected side, indicating a trend of symmetrical bilateral adaptation. The current results suggest that shoulder kinematics in multi-plane arm elevations should be monitored for any compromised integrated motions of the individual bones following conservative treatment. Rehabilitation strategies, including muscle strengthening and synergy stability training, should also consider compensatory kinematic changes on the unaffected side to improve the bilateral movement control of the shoulder complex during humeral elevation.

Navigating Pain in Rheumatology: A Physiotherapy-Centric Review on Non-pharmacological Pain Management Strategies.

Rheumatism is a broad term for the painful afflictions of the musculoskeletal system, which include a variety of symptoms ranging from vague pain or aching to profound disability. This article explores the imperative role of physiotherapy in navigating pain within the field of rheumatology, providing a comprehensive review of non-pharmacological pain management strategies. A literature search of PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane databases was conducted, employing keywords like "Pain," "Rheumatic disease," and "Physiotherapy," with the review emphasizing recent English studies, particularly randomized trials, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews over the last 10 years, to consolidate evidence on the efficacy of physiotherapy interventions for individuals with rheumatic disease. Pain, a significant challenge for individuals with rheumatic diseases, is often intense and persistent, associated with subsequent physical disability, but employing a holistic approach encompassing drugs, physical therapy, and patient education can yield substantial benefits in managing these painful conditions. In addition to pharmacological interventions, management strategies incorporate a non-pharmacological approach, encompassing rehabilitation and physical therapy in alignment with the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) model. The patient and physiotherapist collaborate to develop a goal-oriented treatment plan, utilizing modalities like heat, cold, electrotherapy, and hydrotherapy for pain management, progressing to mobility enhancement, posture re-education, and activities focused on a range of motion and muscle strengthening.

Strengthening the pelvic floor in Female Sexual Dysfunctions: review

Background: Pelvic floor muscle strength and sexual function in women are important variables in Pelvic Physiotherapy. Aims: To identify the main contributions of Physiotherapy to strengthening the pelvic floor muscles in women. Method: Bibliographical review of books, scientific articles, theses and dissertations published between 2007 and 2023. Results: The pelvic floor is a muscular and ligamentous structure that supports the organs in the lower abdomen. Its weakness can cause a variety of problems, including UI, prolapse, pain, and sexual dysfunction. Pelvic Physiotherapy works to rehabilitate these problems. Its exercises aim to strengthen and relax the muscles, normalizing tone and desensitizing the genital region. In the long term, they restore function, helping women to have a more satisfactory sex life. Conclusion: Muscle strengthening, proprioception and body awareness exercises can help improve the quality of sexual life, making it more satisfying.

Effects of moderate intensity intermittent training versus continuous training on indices of cardio-metabolic health in women with hyperlipidemia

Background: Moderate intensity intermittent and continuous training are in practice for muscle strengthening and physical activity. These trainings can be used for cardiometabolic health of hyperlipidemic patients. Objective: to determine the effects of moderate-intensity intermittent versus continuous training on indices of cardio-metabolic health in women with hyperlipidemia. Methods: A randomized clinical trial was conducted at Milestone Fitness Gym in Sialkot from August to December 2021. Women between 30 to 40 years old with hyperlipidemia were included by using a non-probability convenience sampling technique. A total of Twenty (n=20) participants were randomly divided into two groups by lottery method. Moderate-intensity intermittent training was given to Group A (n=10), and moderate-intensity continuous training was given to Group B (n=10) by the gym trainer 3 days per week for 5 weeks. The lipid profile for hyperlipidemia, step test, modified Borg Scale and Timed up-and-go test were used for cardiometabolic health and assessed at the baseline and after 5 weeks of training. Results: The mean age was 34±3.43 years. There was no significant difference (p≥0.05) in lipid profile, lipid profile, Borg scale, and time up and go test when between both groups analysis was done. While within-group analysis shows that there was a significant difference (p<0.05) in all outcome measures of both groups. Conclusion: It is concluded that both techniques, moderate-intensity intermittent versus continuous training were effective equally on indices of cardio-metabolic health in women with hyperlipidemia. Keywords: Continuous Training; Moderate Intensity Intermittent Training; Hyperlipidemia

Perkembangan Fisik dan Kognitif pada Masa Kanak-Kanak Pertengahan

Physical and cognitive development in middle childhood undergoes many significant changes. Children at this age develop problem-solving skills, abstract thinking, and language development in cognitive aspects. They have the ability to understand the concepts of time and space, as well as improve their reading and writing skills. At this stage, physical development includes rapid body growth, muscle strengthening, and improved motor coordination. Children usually experience rapid height growth and organ development. Physical activities and activities involving movement are becoming increasingly important for achieving an optimal level of physical fitness. These two components are interrelated, and good physical health can support cognitive development. Positive simulations, environmental factors, and education also played an important role in shaping the holistic development of the time.

Injury Prevention Strategies: Improving Strength and Flexibility for the Ankle : A Literature Review

The importance of injury prevention in the world of sport, especially football, is increasingly recognized by health practitioners and coaches. This article aims to present an in-depth literature review on strategies for preventing ankle injuries in soccer athletes, with the main focus on increasing muscle strength and flexibility. The literature presented includes the latest research results, clinical guidelines, and empirical findings in an effort to increase ankle durability and stability. Literature analysis reveals that training programs aimed at strengthening the supporting muscles of the ankle, along with increasing flexibility, can reduce the risk of injury in soccer athletes. Additionally, this review explores effective post-injury rehabilitation methods to speed up the recovery process and prevent recurrence. Practical implications of this research include developing exercise programs tailored to individual needs, regular monitoring by medical staff, and educating athletes about the importance of prehabilitation treatment. The results of this literature review confirm that implementing an exercise program that focuses on increasing the strength and flexibility of the ankle supporting muscles is an effective strategy in preventing injuries and post-injury rehabilitation in soccer athletes. Conclusion Overall, muscle strengthening and increasing flexibility in the ankle is emerging as a significant approach in the prevention and management of injuries in soccer athletes, highlighting the crucial role of targeted training in improving their health and performance.

On the issue of exoskeletal rehabilitation of shoulder periarthritis after a gunshot wound of the scapular area

Modern comprehensive treatment of wounded and injured with combat injuries of limbs should include not only surgical treatment itself, but also effective rehabilitation for maximum restoration of the function of injured limbs. The use of exoskeletons in the rehabilitation of patients with shoulder blade and shoulder joint injuries can accelerate muscle strengthening, restore motor activity and range of motion, as well as improve the results of treatment and the quality of life of patients. The use of exoskeletons in the rehabilitation of patients with shoulder blade and shoulder joint injuries is an effective and promising approach.

Compare the Effectiveness of Core Muscle Strengthening Versus Quadriceps Muscle Strengthening in the Patient With Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome RCT

The purpose of this study was to see the comparative effectiveness of core muscle strengthening versus quadriceps muscle strengthening in the patients of patellofemoral pain syndrome to reduce pain and increase Range of Motion (ROM). 36 patients who fulfilled the selection criteria were enrolled in the study. Written informed contest was taken from each individual participating in this prior to performing any examination. Patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome were divided randomly into three groups. In ‘group A’ Core muscles strengthening exercises were applied. In ‘group B’ quadriceps muscles strengthening exercises were applied. In ‘group C’ Conventional Physiotherapy was applied. Allocation of patients in three groups had done by computerized generated list. All groups received conventional therapy, which was remain same throughout the study. The conventional therapy included knee isometrics and hot pack for 15 minutes. Group A subjects were treated with conventional therapy and core muscle strengthening. Group B subjects were treated with conventional therapy and quadriceps muscles strengthening. Group C subjects were treated only with conventional therapy. Treatment frequency will be 3 times a week. The duration of treatment was b 3 weeks in all groups. Informed consent was taken from each patient and Performa was filled. Visual analogue scale (VAS) and Anterior knee pain scale (AKPS) used for scoring. Group A showed marked improvement and significant results as p value is less than 0.05 than group B and group C. When treating patellofemoral pain syndrome, strengthening the core muscles is more efficient at reducing pain and enhancing functional abilities than strengthening the quadriceps. The result of this study proved that core muscle strengthening with conventional therapy was more effective than quadriceps muscle strengthening with conventional therapy and conventional therapy only.

Development and Validation of an Artificial Intelligence-Based Motion Analysis System for Upper Extremity Rehabilitation Exercises in Patients with Spinal Cord Injury: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

In this study, we developed an AI-based real-time motion feedback system for patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) during rehabilitation, aiming to enhance their interest and motivation. The effectiveness of the system in improving upper-limb muscle strength during the Thera band exercises was evaluated. The motion analysis program, including exercise repetition counts and calorie consumption, was developed using MediaPipe, focusing on three key motions (chest press, shoulder press, and arm curl) for upper extremity exercises. The participants with SCI were randomly assigned to the experimental group (EG = 4) or control group (CG = 5), engaging in 1 h sessions three times a week for 8 weeks. Muscle strength tests (chest press, shoulder press, lat pull-down, and arm curl) were performed before and after exercises. Although both groups did not show significant differences, the EG group exhibited increased strength in all measured variables, whereas the CG group showed constant or reduced results. Consequently, the computer program-based system developed in this study could be effective in muscle strengthening. Furthermore, these findings may serve as a valuable foundation for future AI-driven rehabilitation exercise systems.

A comparison of core muscle endurance of females with fibromyalgia versus healthy females: An observational study

IntroductionDespite the numerous benefits of core muscle strengthening in improving symptoms of fibromyalgia (FM), limited studies have quantified core muscle function in FM patients. ObjectiveTo compare the core muscle endurance of FM females with age-matched healthy females and determine whether a correlation exists between core muscle endurance and FM severity. Materials and methodsPre-diagnosed female FM patients (n=7) and age-matched healthy females (n=19) were assessed using McGill's core endurance tests in four positions – flexion, extension, and bilateral side-bridge. The longest contraction holding time (in seconds) in each position was noted and compared in both groups. Additionally, patient-reported Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) scores were obtained to determine disease severity. ResultsThe mean holding time for trunk extensors (26.14±7.7s), right lateral flexors (20.14±8.3s), and left lateral flexors (20.86±5.3s) was significantly lower in the FM females than the healthy females (trunk extensors=55.21±17.1s; right lateral flexors=36.05±13.2s; left lateral flexors=35.11±13.8s). The endurance of trunk flexors was statistically similar in both groups (FM females=52.14±27.9s; healthy females=74.37±37.7s). Lastly, core muscle endurance was not correlated with the FIQ scores in FM patients (p>0.05). ConclusionThe results of this preliminary study revealed that core extensor and lateral flexor endurance in FM females was lower than their healthy female counterparts. Larger sample studies are needed to further substantiate our findings.

Optimising Preconception Care

Women with PCOS are at an increased risk of infertility and a range of pregnancy complications. It is therefore important to understand how to optimise preconception care to reduce these risks. A reproductive life plan and age-appropriate education on optimising reproductive health is recommended in adolescents and women with PCOS. This should occur across the domains of appropriate nutritional intake (dietary and supplement sources), optimising physical activity, considering the effects of excess weight on fertility and being aware of the effects of substances on fertility. Dietary intake should be consistent with population guidelines for healthy eating with appropriate intake of core food groups and limited intake of discretionary foods high in added sugar, sodium, trans and saturated fats. Recommendations exist for preconception micronutrient supplementation including folic acid and iodine (in the Australian context) with others (e.g., vitamin D, iron, calcium and B12) as per deficiencies or other country specific guidelines. Recommendations for physical activity should also be consistent with general population guidelines comprising moderate intensity physical activity of >150 minutes/week or vigorous intensity physical activity of 75 minutes/week or a combination of both, engaging in muscle strengthening activities [Formula: see text]2 days/week and minimising the amount of time spent in prolonged sitting. The association of excess weight on reduced fertility are recognised from epidemiological literature and current guidelines highlight strategies of modest weight loss at higher BMIs. This is an important and emerging field of literature where future research can elucidate efficacy in randomised controlled trials across different interventions and populations. When working with all women preconception, and in particular women with PCOS, it is important to consider weight stigma, disordered eating and eating disorders when discussing the relationship of infertility and weight and potential modification of weight. Substance use can be considered across limiting high intake of caffeine and avoiding alcohol and illicit substance intake and smoking.

The effect of lower limb strengthening exercise on orthostatic blood pressure and the skeletal muscle pump in older people with orthostatic hypotension.

Activation of muscles during standing is recommended to activate the skeletal muscle pump, increasing venous return and increasing blood pressure (BP) in people with orthostatic hypotension (OH). The aim of this study is to determine if increasing the strength of the lower limb muscles can improve the effectiveness of the venous pump and postural BP in older people with OH. Ten older people with OH underwent an 8-week lower limb strengthening intervention. Repeated measurements of orthostatic BP, calf venous ejection fraction (EF) and muscle strength took place before, during and after intervention. The intervention increased calf muscle strength by 21% (interquartile range: 18-28), p = 0.018, from a median baseline of 38 (34-45) kg. Participants had normal levels of venous EF 64% (51-75) at baseline, with little to no venous reflux. The median ejection volume at baseline was 44 (36-58) mL per calf. Despite increasing muscle strength, venous EF did not increase (percentage change -10% (-16 to 24), p = 0.8) and systolic BP drop did not improve (percentage change 0% (-17 to 16), p = 1.0). Similarly, visual analysis of individual case-series trends revealed increasing muscle strength with no clinically meaningful change in EF or orthostatic BP. Muscle strengthening exercise does not increase the effectiveness of the skeletal muscle pump and is not an efficacious intervention for OH. As there is little to no venous pooling in the calf during standing in older people with OH, below knee compression is unlikely to be clinically effective.

The effects of knee ligament load using simulated hip abductor and hamstring muscle strengthening during cutting maneuver.

This study aimed to analyze knee ligament of load and joint moment to simulate the strengthening of the hip abductor and hamstring muscles using musculoskeletal modeling, thereby contributing to decrease of knee ligament load. Forty participants (age: 21.85 ± 1.90 years; height: 1.76 ± 0.06 m; body mass: 68.5 ± 7.06 kg) were instructed to run at 4.5 ± 0.2 m/s from a 5 m distance posterior to the force plate, land their feet on the force plate, and perform the cutting maneuver on the left. In the musculoskeletal modeling, the hip abductor and hamstring muscles were targeted to construct a model with a 30% increase in the contraction force of the hip abductor, hamstring, and both 2 muscles. The variables were the ligament force and knee joint moment. One-way repeated measure ANOVA and Bonferroni test were used to compare the abductor/hamstring, abductor, hamstring and control models. There were significant differences in anterior bundle of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) (P = .001), inferior bundle of the superficial layer of the medial collateral ligament (MCL) (P = .016), and posterior bundle of the superficial layer of the MCL (P = .022) force. The post hoc showed that the hamstring model had lower anterior bundle of the ACL and inferior bundle of the superficial layer of the MCL than the abductor/hamstring and abductor models (P < .05) and lower posterior bundle of the superficial layer of the MCL than the abductor and control models (P < .05). There was a significant difference in the adduction (P = .028) and internal rotation moments (P = .014). The post hoc showed that both moments were lower in the hamstring model than in the other models (P < .05). The hamstring strengthening may contribute significantly to preventing ACL or MCL injury by reducing knee ligament load.

End-on versus parallel radiofrequency lesioning for neurotomy of the cervical medial branch nerves: a study protocol of a prospective, randomized, double-blind clinical trial: the “EndPaRL” study

BackgroundCervical facet joint disease is a common source of neck pain and its prevalence increases with aging. Conservative multimodal management options (e.g., strengthening of neck muscles, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, massage, and thermal modalities) often fail to relieve pain. Cervical medial branch nerve (CMBN) radiofrequency neurotomy (RFN) is an effective minimally invasive technique for treating chronic neck pain secondary to facet joint disease. An end-on approach for this procedure has been proposed that may be technically easier and require less time while reducing post-procedural discomfort. The protocol presented here is for a study that aims to compare the efficacy of a new end-on approach using multi-tined cannulae, against the conventional parallel technique that employs straight cannulae for RFN of the CMBN in patients with chronic neck pain due to cervical facet joint disease.MethodsA multicentre randomized, non-inferior, active comparator-controlled trial will be conducted with two parallel groups and blinding of participants and outcome assessor. The study will include 72 adults with chronic neck pain secondary to facet joint disease who are candidates for RFA of the CMBN. Participants will be randomized to either the conventional parallel or the end-on approach in a 1:1 ratio. The intensity of pain and pain-related domains (function, quality of life, sleep, adverse effects of the interventions, analgesic intake) will be measured at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the procedure.DiscussionNeck pain secondary to cervical facet joint disease is prevalent and RFA of the CMBN is a validated treatment for relieving it. The conventional parallel technique can be technically challenging, and it can be associated with adverse effects while the newer end-on approach has the potential of being a simpler technique with less adverse effects. This trial will be the first non-inferiority study to compare the clinical efficacy of the end-on approach against the conventional parallel approach for RFN of CMBN in patients with chronic neck pain due to cervical facet joint disease.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT05818774. Registered on April 20, 2023.

Effect of strengthening and weakening of abdominal and dorsal muscles on lumbar spine loads in parents of disabled children

Pain in the lower part of the back is one of the most common chronic illnesses globally. This work aimed to determine the impact of the reinforcement of particular groups of abdominal and dorsal muscles on the loads exerted on the lumbar section of the spine in 30 mothers of children with motor disabilities. An optical Ariel Performance Analysis System recorded and processed the kinematics data of everyday activities. Tests investigating the effects of the strengthening or weakening of abdominal and dorsal muscles on loading in the lumbar section of the spine utilized the AnyBody Modelling System. Input data for the simulations included mean values of body positions, while the effects of strengthening or weakening of muscles were simulated in the muscle forces model by introducing different values for muscle physiological cross-sectional area (PCSA). Simulations used decreasing or increasing PCSA values of abdominal muscles and the erector spinae. The analysis involved component and resultant force values on the lumbosacral joint (L5-S1) of the spine and intra-abdominal pressure values. The highest reduction of the resultant reaction value in L5-S1 was observed in the simulations that increased the PCSA of the transverse abdominal (TrA). Indeed, a double increase in the TrA cross-section caused a reduction of the resultant reaction in L5-S1 by 30% and the anterior-posterior and proximal–distal forces by approximately 20–30%. Increased PCSA of the erector spinae exerted higher loads on the spine. These results indicate that strengthening weakened abdominal muscles, particularly TrA, in parents of children with motor disabilities reduces lower spinal loads during daily activities.

Can a structured home-based rehabilitation program reduce dorsal central wrist pain?

ObjectivesDorsal central wrist pain, often a consequence of peri-scapholunate ligament injury, can result in a decline in functional performance. There is a scarcity of clinical data evaluating the effectiveness of conservative management on peri-scapholunate ligament injury. Conservative management includes education, immobilization with orthotic devices, scapholunate-stabilizing muscle strengthening, and proprioception training. The identification of the ligamento-muscular reflex and scapholunate-stabilizing muscles formed the rationale for a rehabilitation training program. We have devised an innovative standardized 16-week treatment program for patients with dorsal central wrist pain associated with acute peri-SL ligament injury. We hypothesized that the program can effectively reduce dorsal wrist pain and improve functional performance. Materials and methodsRecruited subjects underwent the 16-week home-based program, which included immobilization and rehabilitation exercises, to improve their wrist stability. Follow-up was arranged every 4 weeks for progress monitoring. The Short-Form 12 item questionnaire version 2, power grip, pinch grip, wrist range of motion, total performance score and total pain score when performing activities of daily living were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the program. An exercise adherence questionnaire was used to evaluate adherence to the home rehabilitation program. ResultsTwenty-three subjects (26 wrists) completed the program. Pain on visual analog scale improved by 5.1 cm and total pain score improved from 14.4/20 to 19.5/20. Total performance score reached 39/40, which indicated near-normal wrist function. Power grip and pinch grip increased by 22.3% and 17.8%, respectively. The physical component scale of the Short-Form 12 item questionnaire showed significant improvement, while the mental component scale did not. Overall adherence was fair. DiscussionConservative management, including immobilization and rehabilitation training, can provide significant clinical improvement in patients with dorsal central wrist pain associated with acute peri-scapholunate ligament injury. ConclusionStandardized wrist rehabilitation can be taken as a reference treatment modality. It is an evidence-based non-invasive treatment option for clinicians and therapists.

Comparison of self-myofascial release and stretching exercises in individuals with piriformis syndrome: a randomised controlled trial

Background/Aims Piriformis syndrome is a condition caused by compression of the sciatic nerve, causing pain, tingling and numbness. Although conservative treatment includes hip muscle strengthening and stretching, there is no proven treatment method in the literature. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of stretching and myofascial releasing methods added to traditional physiotherapy in piriformis syndrome. Methods This prospective, randomised controlled study was completed with 63 individuals between the ages of 20 and 40 years. Participants were randomised into three groups: piriformis muscle stretch group (n=22), self-myofascial release group (n=21) and control group (n=20). All participants were enrolled in a 4-week muscle strengthening home exercise programme. In addition, the two intervention groups performed stretching and self-myofascial relaxation exercises respectively. The primary outcome was pain intensity and the secondary outcome was the range of motion of the hip. Results After 4 weeks of exercises, the level of pain intensity felt in the hip decreased significantly and hip joint range of motion increased significantly in all three groups (P&lt;0.05). In the intergroup analysis, self-myofascial release was found to be more effective in reducing the pain level (F3=3.595, P=0.034). The increase in hip adduction and extension joint range of motion was found to be higher in the control group (F3=4.931, P=0.011 and F3=6.432, P=0.003 respectively). Conclusions Stretching and myofascial releasing methods applied in addition to conventional exercises might improve pain intensity and range of motion as alternative methods for treating piriformis syndrome.

Effect of Vastus Medialis Oblique Strengthening Versus Mulligan Knee Taping Technique (Mcconnell Tape) on Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: A Comparative Study.

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of Vastus medialis oblique (VMO) strengthening and conventional therapy treatment (group A) andMulligan knee taping technique(McConnell tape) and conventional therapy treatment (group B) in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome by VAS for pain andKPS for anterior knee pain scale is to compare VMO strengthening Versus Mulligan knee taping technique using McConnell tape in patellofemoral pain syndromeusing VAS for assessing pain and Kujala patellofemoral scale to assess knee pain and function. The most frequent cause of knee discomfort with retro patellar orperipatellar pain is patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). The need for further studies to better understand the causes and treatment of PFPS is essential to provideoptimal care for individuals experiencing pain in the knee. Physical therapy is considered the most effective treatment for PFPS, but more research is needed todetermine each individual's best course of action. Proper diagnosis is the key to successful treatment and prevention of PFPS. Early intervention is also important forbetter outcomes. Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), which is often used interchangeably with "anterior knee pain" or "runner's knee," is the clinical entity ofstiffness or pain or both on prolonged sitting with the knees flexed and pain with activities that load the patellofemoral joint, such as climbing or descending stairs,squatting, running and kneeling. Varieties of conservative treatments are suggested, like quadriceps strengthening, stretching, braces and straps, electrotherapy, footorthosis, patellar taping, etc. Hence, a comparison between the vastus medialis obliqus muscle strengthening and patellar taping was undertaken to determine theireffectiveness concerning pain and function. A well-organized research study was conducted over 12 months to investigate the impact of strengthening the vastusmedialis oblique muscle and applying conventional therapy treatment. Group A received this combination of treatments, while Group B was assigned a treatmentprotocol involving the use of McConnell tape along with conventional therapy treatment. After taking informed and written consent, 30 subjects diagnosed withunilateral or bilateral PFPS were randomly selected and allocated into two groups - Group A (VMO muscle strengthening and conventional therapy treatment) andGroup B (Mulligan knee taping technique (McConnell tape) and conventional therapy treatment). Both groups received 6 therapy sessions every alternate day for 6weeks. The visual analog scale (VAS) and Kujala patellofemoral scale (KPS) measured pre and post-pain and function. "T-Test" was used for statistical analysis. Therewas a significant improvement in pain and function in patients with Patellofemoral pain syndrome at the end of 6 weeks regarding VAS and KPS within both groups,i.e., groups A and B (p&lt;0.01). But there was no significant difference regarding improvement in pain and functional status in patients with Patellofemoral painsyndrome at the end of 6 weeks in terms of VAS and KPS between groups. The effect of conventional therapy treatment along with VMO muscle strengthening issimilar to the conventional therapy treatment along with patellar taping in improving pain and functional level in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome at theend of 6 weeks.

Impact of Dietary Protein on Osteoporosis Development.

Osteoporosis is a frequent yet unsolved health problem among older people. The influence of dietary protein still raises many questions regarding its quality and quantity in the context of bone health. The aim of this manuscript is to review the latest evidence on plant and animal protein influences on bone health in various groups of patients. The review is based on original studies, meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials, and prospective cohort studies published in PubMed and Cochrane databases during the last five years. Combining plant and animal protein with physical activity has the best effect on bones (muscle strengthening and reducing the risk of falls), while high protein intake can have adverse effects during bed rest. Despite the content of isoflavones, plant protein is not more beneficial than animal protein (dairy products) and can increase bone resorption markers. Hypoestrogenism due to menopause or eating disorders leads to low bone density and an increased risk of osteoporosis. A well-balanced diet with sufficient energy supply and protein intake (both of plant and animal origins) and adequate physical activity are crucial to ensure bone health. Dietary interventions should consider the quantity and quality of protein in patients with other comorbidities, particularly in an aging society.

Deep Cervical Muscle Strengthening Exercise on Neck Pain Disability: A Randomized Controlled trail study

Objective: The study aimed to investigate the effect of deep cervical flexor muscle strengthening exercises on neck pain disability among undergraduate students. Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled trial was adopted with 60 participants who met the inclusion and were randomly allocated into the study group (n=30) and the control group (n=30). Neck pain disability was evaluated before, one month after the initiation of deep cervical flexor muscle strengthening exercise. Results: Majority (&gt;70%) of the participants were female, with a mean age group of 18.72, and used mobile phones and computers with improper ergonomics. There were significant (p&lt;0.001) changes after one month in the overall neck disability index within the study group and between the study and control groups compared by paired t and independent t-test. Conclusion: This finding concludes that the outcome effectively reduces neck pain and its associated disability and could be incorporated into routine day-to-day practice to reduce neck pain, thereby minimizing the disability.