Flexion Test Research Articles

Investigation of the relationship between the clinical evaluation results of lumbar region muscles with cross-sectional area and fat infiltration.

The relationship between the endurance of the lumbar paraspinal muscles and morphological changes needs to be clarified. In this context, the importance can be revealed of increasing the endurance level of the paraspinal muscles in the prevention and treatment of low back diseases. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between the clinical evaluation results of the cross-sectional area (CSA) and fat infiltration of the lumbar deep paraspinal muscles. The study included 37 patients with mechanical low back pain (mechanical), 41 patients with lumbar hernia without root compression (discopathy) and 36 healthy individuals as a control group. The functional status of the lumbar deep paraspinal muscles was evaluated clinically with muscle endurance tests. The fat infiltration and CSA of the muscles were evaluated on axial MRI sections at the L3-S1 level. The mean values of the prone bridge, Biering-Sorenson, and trunk flexion tests were seen to be highest in the control group and lowest in the discopathy group (p< 0.001). In all tests, the longest test period was obtained at < 10% fat infiltration and the shortest at > 50% fat infiltration. It was observed that as the amount of fat infiltration of the muscles increased, the test times were shortened. There was no significant relationship between the endurance level and the CSA of the groups. The study results demonstrated that the endurance of the paraspinal muscles is associated with the fat infiltration of the muscles. In patients with chronic low back pain, information about muscle morphology and degeneration can be obtained with simple endurance tests without the need for further measurements. On clinical examination, a weak endurance level of the paraspinal muscles indicates the presence of a low back problem and an increase in the amount of fat infiltration.

How does pain influence cervical endurance test performance in migraine patients?

Introduction Migraine sufferers frequently complain of cervical pain during and in-between migraine attacks and studies suggest that chronic neck pain is a risk factor for high-frequency migraine, including chronic migraine. Increased headache frequency and chronic neck pain are, in turn, independently associated with cephalic cutaneous allodynia, a known risk factor for increased headache frequency. Objective To verify the influence that pain in migraine patients has on muscle performace during the cervical endurance test and whether the change in performance is due to pain during the test, neck muscle dysfunction or both. Methods Were evaluate 100 women stratified by diagnosis (migraine, cervical pain, both and none) and self-reported pain during the cervical muscle endurance test in flexion and extension (with or without headache and / or cervical pain during the endurance test). Pain during the test by numerical rate scale (NPRS, 0-10) and pain pressure threshold were collected for all groups. Migraine patients answered 12-item Allodynia Symptom. We used one-way analysis of variance with the Tukey’s HSD post hoc test analysis to contrast pressure pain threshold and endurance across groups. Differences in flexion and extension times were compared using the Welch T-test and the McNemar Test was used to compare differences in headache and neck pain incidence per study group during flexion and extension endurance tests. Results There are significantly differences in mean endurance during flexion between migraine and neck pain [34.4s (25)] relative to neck pain alone [45.2 (18)], migraine [40.2s (29)] and controls [57.5.4s (40)] (p = 0.04). On average, those who experienced headache during the flexion test sustained for significantly less time than those without headache during the test (27.80 versus 46.18 seconds, p&lt;0.01); (To see the complete abstract, please, check out the PDF).

Differences in the electrical activity and the clinical performance of superficial neck flexors and extensors during the CCFT in women with migraine

IntroductionMusculoskeletal disorders in the cervical spine have been increasingly investigated and observed in patients with migraine. One of them is a poorer cervical muscle performance as assessed by the cranio-cervical flexion test (CCFT). In addition, patients with migraine have alterations in the recruitment of muscle motor units observed by surface electromyography during CCFT. ObjectiveThe aim was to verify if there are differences in the electrical activity and the clinical performance of superficial neck flexors and extensors during the CCFT in women with migraine considering the presence or absence of concomitant neck pain symptoms. MethodsA total of 100 women were assessed: 25 with migraine without neck pain, 25 with migraine and neck pain, 25 with mechanical neck pain and 25 pain-free control. Clinical and demographic data were collected, The CCFT was performed in all groups. The test assessed the deep flexors muscle by a pressure unit biofeedback placed in the posterior region of the neck and initially inflated to 20 mmHg composed by 5 stages, with increase pressure by 2 mmHg at each stage, reaching 30 mmHg, keeping the pressure for 10 seconds without resorting to compensation. Electromyography data were collected with TrignoTM Wireless System wireless surface sensors. The sensors were firmly attached bilaterally on: sternocleidomastoid (SCM); splenius capitis, anterior scalene and upper trapezius. Electromyographic activity evaluated during the CCFT was normalized by the average the root mean square (RMS) calculated for the reference voluntary contraction and expressed as a percentage. Groups comparisons were performed with non-parametric tests adopting a level of significance of 0.05. To analyze the between-groups differences on the proportion of clinical targeted performance stages reached by each participant within the CCFT, the chi-square (X2) test was calculated, and the data were submitted to a post-hoc proportion test. (To see the complete abstract, please, check out the PDF).

Effects of Neurodynamic Mobilization on Health-Related Quality of Life and Cervical Deep Flexors Endurance in Patients of Cervical Radiculopathy: A Randomized Trial.

Purpose Cervical radiculopathy is disorder of cervical spinal nerve root affecting large number of population. Previously many studies are conducted to design suitable protocol for management of this disorder, but they lack in quality. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of neural mobilization and cervical isometrics on health-related quality of life and deep flexors endurance in cervical radiculopathy. Methods A double-blinded randomized clinical trial was conducted at Mayo Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan. Eighty-eight patients within the age range of 35-50 years were included in the study after taking their consent. In the experimental group (n = 44), median nerve mobilization was applied along with cervical isometric exercises. The control group (n = 44) performed cervical isometric exercises alone. Muscle endurance was measured by craniocervical flexion test and quality of life on 36 items short form health survey SF-36 scale. Measurements were taken at baseline, at 2nd week, and at 4th week. For missing data, intention-to-treat analysis was used. Results Within-group comparison with Friedman test showed a significant difference between pre, mid, and posttreatment scores on craniocervical flexion test and in all domains of SF 36 in both groups. While between-group comparison with Mann–Whitney U test showed all variables were similar at baseline but after 4 weeks there was a statistically significant improvement in craniocervical flexion test scores and all domains of SF 36 in the experimental group. But domain of pain showed mean rank of 49.43 after 4 weeks in the experimental group and 39.57 in the control group with p = 0.065 and d = 0.579, while for all the other 7 domains values were p < .05 and d > 0.25. Conclusion Neural mobilization combined with cervical isometrics shows significant effects in improving quality of life and deep flexors endurance in patients with cervical radiculopathy than cervical isometrics alone.

TREINO FÍSICO GUIADO POR SISTEMA DE MOVIMENTO FUNCIONAL NA REABILITAÇÃO DE LESÕES ESPORTIVAS

ABSTRACT Introduction: The Functional Movement Screen is a standardized tool that proposes the evaluation of movement and body stability. That information can assist in decision-making for accurate and focused training programs. However, few studies address its use in the rehabilitation of table tennis players. Objective: Perform an experimental study on the physical training guided effect by the Functional Movement System method in sports injuries rehabilitation. Methods: Ten table tennis players, aged 18 to 24 years, with knee assessment scale scores between 6 and 8 points and skill level II in the sport were selected. The individuals underwent three months of physical training guided adequately by the screening results. SPSS20 software was used to analyze body composition indices, including thigh and calf circumferences. Lower limb torque was also compared. Results: There was no change in weight or BMI; however, a difference was noted in the thigh (from52.61cm to 53.26cm) and calf (from 32.34cm to 33.16cm) circumference. Statistical difference was noted in squat, straight knee raise, hurdles, and flexion tests (P&lt;0.001). Conclusion: The Functional Movement System proved to be effective as a screening and assessment tool for rehabilitation in knee injuries of table tennis players. Evidence Level II; Therapeutic Studies - Investigating the result.

Evaluation of Cervical Endurance by Craniocervical Flexion Test in Patients with Subacromial Impingement Syndrome: A Preliminary Study

Aim: The aim of the study is to evaluate deep cervical flexor endurance in patients with subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS) and compare it with norm values proven in the literature in asymptomatic individuals. &#x0D; Materials and Methods: The patients’ age, weight, height, duration of complaints and dominant side information were recorded. 35 patients (25 female, 10 male) diagnosed with SIS by physicians participated in the study. Pain intensity was evaluated by numerical rating scale at rest, during elevation and at night. Craniocervical flexion test (CFT) is used for evaluating cervical endurance. “Stabilizer Pressure Biofeedback” device is used for this test. Two types of points are obtained as a result of this test. One is the CFT activation score, which expresses the activation level of the deep cervical muscles, and the other is the CFT performance index, which expresses the endurance of the deep cervical muscles. &#x0D; Results: Both the activation score (3.9±1.9) and the performance index (31.4±14.2) of CFT were significantly different in patients with SIS when compared with those of asymptomatic individuals.&#x0D; Conclusion: Cervical endurance is reduced in patients with SIS. Treatments including cervical stabilization should be planned in these patients.

Fat Infiltration of Multifidus Muscle Is Correlated with Neck Disability in Patients with Non-Specific Chronic Neck Pain.

Background: Chronic non-specific neck pain (CINP) is common, but the etiology remains unclear. This study aimed to examine the relationship between cervical muscle composition (cervical multifidus and longus capitis/longus colli), morphometry, range of movement, muscle function, and disability severity (Neck Disability Index) in patients with CINP. Methods: From September 2020 to July 2021, subjects underwent cervical MRI and clinical tests (cervical range of motion, cranio-cervical flexion test, neck flexor, and extensor muscle endurance). MRI analysis comprised muscle cross-sectional area, volume, and fat infiltration of multifidus and longus colli between C4 and C7 levels. Results: Twenty-five participants were included. Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that NDI was positively correlated with the volume percentage of fat infiltration of the multifidus (B = 0.496), negatively correlated with fat-free muscle volume of the multifidus normalized by subject height (B = −0.230), and accounted for 32% of the variance. There was no relationship between neck disability and longus capitis/longus colli morphology. We also found no relationship between neck disability scores, neck flexor or extensor muscle endurance, or the outcome motor control test of craniocervical flexion (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Neck disability was moderately correlated with the percentage of fat volume in the multifidus muscle and fat-free volume of the multifidus. There was no relationship between NDI scores and muscle function test outcomes or any fat or volume measures pertaining to the longus colli muscle.

CHANGING THE LEVEL OF GENERAL AND SPECIAL PHYSICAL PREPAREDNESS OF CHERLIDERS IN THE PRE- COMPETITION PERIOD

Cheerleading is a relatively new sport that has its own classification, is actively developing and has a large number of fans. Therefore, the issues of sports training of athletes are relevant, especially in the pre-competition period. Athletes from the cheerleading department of the specialized training group of the first year of study took part in the study. The study lasted for 6 months and covered two pre-competition periods: the Cup and the Cheerleading Championship of Ukraine.In the process of research, athletes performed general development exercises, as well as specially directed exercises to develop the necessary physical qualities. Technical characteristics such as flexibility, jumping, coordination, strength, endurance are important for the preparation of a cheerleader. Testing of general and special physical fitness was conducted twice. The first stage was held after three months of training in the pre-competition period for the Cup of Ukraine, the second - after six months of training before the Championship of Ukraine in cheerleading. A twine test was used to test and evaluate flexibility. To determine the strength endurance used the test of flexion and extension of the arms in a emphasis lying down. Flamingos were used to test coordination skills. To determine the level of special physical fitness of the cheerleader, we tested cher-jumps, lip-jumps and turns. The obtained results showed that the standards used were improved in the athletes of the study group. Studies of assessing the level of general and special physical fitness of cheerleaders of the group of specialized training in the pre-competition periods showed the following results: increased the number of athletes with a high level of general and special physical fitness from 63 % to 70 %; the number of above-average athletes decreased from 25 % to 22 %; the average level of general and special physical fitness also decreased from 10 % to 8 %. The level of general and special physical fitness is below average in the pre-competition period after 6 months of training was not recorded. Thus, the study showed positive changes in the standards of general and special physical fitness in the pre-competition period.

Cognitive Function &amp; Functional Capacity In Institutionalized Elderly

PURPOSE: Comparison of functional capacity according to cognitive status in institutionalized elderly. METHODS: Cross-sectional study, with a convenience sample of 152 elderly people of both sexes from 6 long-stay institutions for philanthropic elderly people in São Caetano do Sul. Cognitive function was measured by the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE). Functional capacity was assessed by the CELAFISCS Functional Capacity Assessment Scale, consisting of the measurement of leg circumference (centimeters), elbow flexion test (repetitions), walking speed test (seconds), and stationary gait test (repetitions) with a total score of up to 16 points. The ANCOVA test adjusted for sex and age was applied, adopting a significance level of p < 0.05 using the SPSS 25.0 statistical program. RESULTS: Significant differences were found in the group with cognitive impairment according to the functional when adjusted for age and sex in the following variables: elbow flexion, maximum walking speed and 2-minute stationary gait. CONCLUSION: The institutionalized elderly with cognitive deficit presented a lower functional capacity. Functional capacity variables according to the presence of cognitive deficit in institutionalized elderly

Static and Dynamic Ultrasound Evaluation of the Median Nerve Morphopathology in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Diagnosis.

Objective:The current study included a total of 10 patients, both males and females, who gave their consent to participate in the study and underwent clinical and ultrasound examinations. All patients had a history of carpal tunnel symptoms like tingling, numbness, nocturnal paraesthesia and weakness of the hand (loss of pinch and grip strength) for more than 12 months. Aim: The aim of our study was to investigate the morphopathology of the median nerve in clinically diagnosed carpal tunnel thought static and dynamic ultrasound assessment. Material and methods: The present study included a small group of 10 patients aged over 18, both males and females, who had a history of carpal tunnel symptoms for over 12 months and a positive Tinel's and reverse Phalen's tests during clinical examination. Ultrasound was performed by an experienced orthopaedic surgeon with musculoskeletal ultrasound training. Ultrasound evaluation was made using a standardized method and included transverse and longitudinal static examination and dynamic examination of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel. Side-to-side evaluation was performed and differences of more than 10 mm width in the median nerve have been recorded, which was considered to be a positive test for carpal tunnel syndrome. Furthermore, the major advantage of the dynamic evaluation brought by performing the palmar hand and finger flexion test, while investigating the movement trajectory of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel, provides superior imagistic documentation of this pathology. Results:Dynamic evaluation of the median nerve has shown a decreased mobility of the nerve in the carpal tunnel on the side that also had an increased area value of the median nerve width. If in the asymptomatic hand at the time of dynamic evaluation, the median nerve would suddenly slide under the flexor tendons; therefore, we noted results only of a slight translational movement of the nerve in the carpal tunnel on the affected side. A side-to-side difference in the median nerve area, with values ranging between 3 mm up to 9 mm, was found in our patients. Furthermore, thenar atrophy has been discovered in patients with pre-existing carpal tunnel symptoms for more than 24 months. Conclusion:The present study highlights the importance of ultrasound assessment as an accessible static and dynamic evaluation tool. Ultrasound can be used as an in-office imaging tool to complete the clinical diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome by studying the morphology and morphopathology of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel through a bilateral standardized examination technique.

Quantifying Neurological Examination in 21st Century: Yilmaz- Ilbay Plantar Flexion Test, A Novel and Reliable Test for Evaluation of Plantar Flexion in L5-S1 Disc Herniation.

Current methods used to measure the muscle strength required to achieve plantar flexion may yield highly variable results depending on the perception of the physician conducting the examination because these tests involve subjective and qualitative evaluation. To describe and evaluate the efficacy of a novel examination technique that can quantitatively measure plantar flexion in L5-S1 disc herniation. A total of 32 patients (average age: 49.4 years, range: 23-78) with L5-S1 disc herniations were included. The patient to be tested stood next to a table on which they could lean with their hands. The leg closer to the table was fully flexed at the knee, and the other foot was brought to maximum plantar flexion on the toes. At this point, a stopwatch was started to measure the time that passed until the muscles fatigued and the heel fell. The differences between the right and left plantar flexion times were noted. In addition, three different physicians graded muscle strength by using the classical "The Medical Research Council of the United Kingdom" method. The time until fatigue in right and left plantar flexion was measured using the proposed method, and each test underwent a video recording. The Yilmaz-Ilbay plantar flexion test yielded the correct classification for all cases. We suggest that the proposed method "Yilmaz-Ilbay plantar flexion test" can serve as a useful, practical, and effective test to detect quantitative evaluation of plantar flexion in L5-S1 herniation.

Effects of breathing reeducation on cervical and pulmonary outcomes in patients with non specific chronic neck pain: A double blind randomized controlled trial.

ObjectiveThe purpose of this randomized controlled trial was to study effects of breathing reeducation in the treatment of patients with non specific chronic neck pain.MethodsA total of sixty eight eligible patients with chronic neck pain were randomly allocated to breathing reeducation (BR) group (n = 34) and routine physical therapy (RPT) group (n = 34). Clinical outcomes were neck pain measured through visual analogue score, cervical active range of motion through CROM device, strength of neck muscles through hand held dynamometer and endurance of neck muscles measured through craniocervical flexion test. The neck disability was measured through neck disability index (NDI) and pulmonary outcomes such as forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), and FEV1/FVC ratio were measured through Spirolab 4. The outcomes were assessed at baseline and at 4 and at 8 weeks from baseline.ResultsThere were significant improvements in the BR group compared with the RPT group (P = 0.002) for cervical flexion, extension (P = 0.029), endurance (P = 0.042), strength of neck flexors (P <0.001), neck extensors (P = 0.034). Likewise there was a significant change in NDI (P = 0.011), FEV1 (P = 0.045), FVC (P <0.001), and FEV1/FVC ratio (P <0.001) in the BR group compared with the RPT group. The cervical side flexion and rotation showed no significant difference in breathing reeducation group with p > 0.05.ConclusionBreathing reeducation combined with routine physical therapy is an effective treatment in patients with non specific chronic neck pain.Trial registrationIRCT 20200226046623N1, https://www.irct.ir/trial/46240.

Comparison of Muscle Thickness and Changing Ratio for Cervical Flexor Muscles During the Craniocervical Flexion Test Between Subjects With and Without Forward Head Posture

Comparison of Muscle Thickness and Changing Ratio for Cervical Flexor Muscles During the Craniocervical Flexion Test Between Subjects With and Without Forward Head Posture

Biocomponents Based on Hydroxiapatite: Influence of Sterilization on the Mechanical Resistance.

Objective This study aimed to evaluate the influence of sterilization on the compressive and flexural mechanical strength of hydroxyapatite-based biocomponents obtained through freeze-dried bovine bone, and its association with chitosan. Methods Freeze-dried bovine bone was processed into 100 μm particles and mixed with 50% of its weight in chitosan. The mixture was packed in metallic molds for preparing the specimens, and sterilized at 127°C using an autoclave for subsequent experimentation. The specimens were subjected to compression and flexion tests following norm 5833 of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), with 6 × 12 mm cylindrical blocks (for compression tests) and 75 × 10 × 3.3 mm plates (for flexion tests) as samples. The samples were divided into four groups of 20 specimens each, with 10 for compression and 10 for flexion tests. Three groups were sterilized (autoclave, gamma rays, and ethylene oxide), whereas the fourth group (control) was not. The mechanical tests obtained from the different sterilization processes were compared using analysis of variance (ANOVA, p < 0.05), followed by the Tukey multiple comparison test of means, with a 95% confidence interval. Results The specimens presented mean compressive strengths of 10.25 MPa for the control group and 3.67 MPa, 9.65 MPa, and 9.16 MPa after ethylene oxide, gamma ray, and autoclave sterilization, respectively. Flexion test results showed an average resistance of 0.40 MPa in the control group, and 0.15 MPa, 0.17 MPa, and 0.30 MPa after ethylene oxide, gamma ray, and autoclave sterilization, respectively. There were statistically significant differences observed in the maximum compression of the ethylene oxide-sterilized group compared with that of the control group ( p = 0 . 0002), gamma ray-sterilized ( p = 0.0003), and the autoclaved ( p = 0.0006) groups. There was a statistically significant difference in maximum flexion of the specimens sterilized by gamma rays when compared with the control group ( p = 0.0245). However, low flexural strengths were observed in all specimens. Conclusion The autoclave sterilization group did not result in statistically significant differences in either compression or flexion strength tests. Thus, the autoclave proved to be the best sterilization option for the hydroxyapatite-based biocomponents in this study.

The validity of the cervical rotation lateral flexion test in predicting benefit after manipulation treatment to the first and second rib

Prospective cohort study. The cervical rotation lateral flexion (CRLF) test is frequently used in clinical practice to determine whether a thrust manipulation targeting the first rib should be performed. To evaluate the predictive validity of the CRLF test and manual examination in determining whether patients with neck pain are likely to benefit from manipulative treatment to the first and second rib. A physical examination incorporating the CRLF test was performed on 50 participants with neck pain followed by manipulation treatment to the first and second ribs. Clinical improvement was assessed immediately and one week after treatment. Participants who experienced at least a 30% improvement in their Neck Disability Index (NDI) score were considered "improved." Predictive validity was assessed by calculating sensitivity, specificity, and negative and positive likelihood ratios. Neither the CRLF test nor manual examination were predictive of clinical improvement after manipulative treatment to the first and second rib. However, being male, of older age, and exhibiting T1 and/or T2 restricted end-feel were associated with improved neck related-disability at one-week follow-up. The CRLF test does not appear to be helpful in determining whether patients with neck pain are likely to benefit from manipulative treatment to the first and second rib. Other factors from the history and clinical examination may be more helpful when selecting manipulative treatment including age and gender and possibly the presence of T1/T2 restricted end-feel.

Reproduction and resolution of familiar head pain with upper cervical spine sustained joint mobilization may help identify cervicogenic headaches: a case–control study

ABSTRACT Background The relative value of clinical tests toward identifying cervicogenic headache (CGH) remains under investigated. Whilst certain physical examination findings have been associated with CGH, consensus on which findings provide the strongest association remains elusive. Objectives To determine which cervical musculoskeletal assessment procedures used in CGH are positively associated with CGH. Design Single blind observational study Methods Four selected musculoskeletal assessment procedures of the cervical spine, craniocervical flexion test, cervical flexion-rotation test, cervical retraction range of motion and reproduction and resolution of familiar head pain with upper cervical spine sustained joint mobilization, were applied to 20 headache and 20 controls. Inclusion criteria for the headache group met the International Headache Society criteria for CGH except positive diagnostic blocks. Results Upper cervical spine sustained joint mobilization testing associated with reproduction and resolution of familiar head pain was strongly associated with CGH (Odds Ratio = 36, p < 0.01). This was 78% sensitive and 90% specific in identifying CGH. Other physical tests were not statistically associated with CGH. Conclusions Reproduction and resolution of familiar head pain with upper cervical spine sustained joint mobilization is effective in differentiating those with CGH from control participants. Other cervical measures did not clearly identify CGH in this study.

Correlation between Core Strength and Stability with Body Mass Index among Postmenopausal Women.

Women in postmenopausal period of their life face various physical and physiological changes causing lack of estrogen and progesterone hormones, changes in the reproductive and genitals organs, vasomotor system in the body along with mood related symptoms such as anxiety, etc. Lifestyle, body fat distribution and anthropometric changes adds on to the bone strength in postmenopausal women. It may be a risk factor for osteoporotic fracture, cardiovascular, metabolic diseases, etc. Core strength and stability is greatly influenced by body composition and adiposity. The aim of the study was to correlate the core strength assessed with the Body Mass Index (BMI) among postmenopausal women. The objective of the study is to find the correlation between the core strength assessed with the Body Mass Index using 60° flexion test, Beiring Sorenson test and Unilateral Hip Bridge Endurance test among postmenopausal women with age ranging from 46-70 years. 96 healthy postmenopausal women in Karad city with a natural history of menopause were selected for the study. Based upon BMI values, the subjects were grouped as Underweight (&lt;18.5 kg/m2), Normal weight (18.5-24.9 kg/m2), Overweight (25-29.9 kg/m2 and more). The outcome values for strength were correlated with the BMI of postmenopausal women. In the study, the Pearson correlation(r) was -0.361 and the P value was 0.0003 showing extremely significant correlation between the BMI and 60° Flexion test. For the Beiring Sorenson Test, the Pearson correlation value was -0.305 and the P value was 0.0025 showing very significant correlation between the BMI and Beiring Sorenson Test. Correlation of BMI and Unilateral Hip Bridge Endurance Test shows a Pearson Correlation value of -0.322 and the P value 0.0013 claiming very significant correlation between the BMI and Unilateral Hip Bridge Endurance Test. The study concludes that there is a significantly negative correlation between the core strength and stability with the Body Mass Index among postmenopausal women.

Deep Cervical Muscles and Functionality in Patients with Chronic Tension-Type Headache: An Observational Study.

Background and objectives: Chronic tension-type headache (TTH) is the type of headache with the highest prevalence. The involvement of musculoskeletal structures in TTH is supported by evidence in the scientific literature. Among these, deep cervical muscle strength appears to be related to the function of the cervical spine and the clinical characteristics of TTH. This study aimed to correlate anatomical, functional, and psychological variables in patients with TTH. Materials and methods: An observational descriptive study was carried out with 22 participants diagnosed with TTH for at least six months. The characteristics of headaches, including ultrasound-based deep neck flexor and extensor muscle thickness, range of motion (ROM), and pressure pain threshold (PPT), were recorded. We also conducted the Pain Vigilance and Awareness Questionnaire (PVAQ) and the Craniocervical Flexion Test (CCFT). Results: Moderate–large negative correlations were found between the PVAQ and the muscle thickness of right deep flexors contracted (r = −0.52; p = 0.01), left multifidus contracted (r = −0.44; p = 0.04), right multifidus at rest (r = −0.48; p = 0.02), and right multifidus contracted (r = −0.45; p = 0.04). Moderate–large positive correlations were found between the CCFT score and the left cervical rotation ROM (r = 0.53; p = 0.01), right cervical rotation ROM (r = 0.48; p = 0.03), muscle thickness of left multifidus contracted (r = 0.50; p = 0.02), and muscle thickness of right multifidus at rest (r = 0.51; p = 0.02). The muscle thickness of the contracted right deep cervical flexors showed a moderate negative correlation with headache intensity (r = −0.464; p = 0.03). No correlations were found between PPT and the rest of the variables analyzed. Conclusions: In patients with TTH, a higher thickness of deep cervical muscles was associated with higher ROM and higher scores in the CCFT. In turn, the thickness of deep cervical muscles showed negative correlations with pain hypervigilance and headache intensity. These results contribute to a better understanding of the physical and psychosocial factors contributing to the development of TTH, which is useful for implementing appropriate prevention and treatment measures.

Postural stability and flexibility responses of yoga training in women: Are improvements similar in both sexes?

The researchers’ aim is to examine the postural stability and flexibility responses of yoga training in women. The authors conducted the yoga training program 2 days a week and they assessed flexibility using the sit and reach test, trunk hyperextension test and trunk lateral flexion test. The researchers measured static and dynamic balance employing the device and database system. Then, the authors repeated all assesments were at the end of the first, the fifth and the tenth sessions. As a result of this study, the researchers revealed that the male participants had significantly poorer results in a single parameter (longitudinal sway) when compared with the female group, but the groups were statistically equivalent in this parameter after the first yoga training session. The authors also revealed that yoga was effective in improving flexibility among healthy young adults of both sexes, although the males showed greater improvement than females in the flexibility results.

Lameness Localization in Dogs: An Exploratory Study of the Translation of the Equine Flexion Test to Canine Orthopaedics

Abstract Objectives The aim of this study was to describe the method and feasibility of the flexion test (FT) as a diagnostic tool to localize lameness on dogs. Study Design Canine FT was designed and based on the FT routinely used on horses. In dogs, the test consisted in a flexion of a joint to its full range of motion for 1 minute. Eventual increased lameness was then evaluated. The gait was evaluated using a visual analogue scale. An increase in the lameness score compared with the baseline score was considered as a positive result.The method was described for every major joint of the appendicular skeleton and was evaluated in sound and lame dogs. To evaluate the feasibility, the FT was applied for 3 minutes in eight healthy dogs on all joints. On 27 clinically lame dogs, flexion was applied for 1 minute on the joints with a suspected pathology and on their contralateral side used as a control. Results The FT was feasible and well tolerated by the sound dogs on all joints and no positive results were recorded. On clinically lame dogs, lameness increased in 81.5% of dogs. These cases were afterwards diagnosed with an orthopaedic-related disorder and then defined as true positives. False negative results occurred in 18.5% of the lameness cases. Conclusion The FT is safe and easy to perform. It did not produce any false positive results. False negatives might occur in a minor number of cases, implying that a negative result does not exclude a joint pathology.