Trunk Muscle Endurance Research Articles

Hatha yoga, integrating the segmental stabilization exercise model, can improve trunk muscle endurance in healthy adults

IntroductionLow back pain is a very common symptom worldwide and an increasingly important public health problem. Exercises to stabilize the lumbar spine and pelvis have been shown to be effective in preventing or reducing the risk of low back pain. Hatha yoga practice is now increasingly appearing in prevention research and has the potential to improve trunk muscle endurance. The prevention research on endurance training of trunk muscle lacks evidence. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a professional and scientifically based exercise program to improve and balance trunk muscle endurance in healthy adults.MethodsA non-randomized control study was conducted. Participants were healthy adults without low back pain or injury who had not performed exercises to improve trunk muscle endurance prior to participation in the study. An analysis of the proposed exercise program’s effectiveness was conducted. The participants were divided into two groups: the exercise group (EG) performed a three-month hatha yoga exercise program (60 min twice a week) that included the spinal and pelvic segmental stabilization exercise model, or the control group (CG), in which participants were asked to maintain their previous lifestyle during the study period. Trunk muscle endurance was measured at baseline (PRE) and after completion of the exercise program (POST) in both groups. The changes in the measured variables were analyzed (PRE-POST analysis, EG-CG comparison).ResultsSeventy-two subjects (nEG = 36, age 32.2 ± 6.8 years; nCG = 36, age 29.9 ± 7.8 years) participated in the study. After the exercise program, the EG participants had significantly better results in endurance in three of the four trunk muscle groups (p < 0.05), but not in any of the endurance ratios.ConclusionHatha yoga when integrating the segmental stabilization exercise model can significantly improve the endurance of at least three of the four major trunk muscle groups. For clinical relevance, the long-term effects of the proposed exercise program should be investigated in individuals with low back pain.

An observational cross-sectional study on the characteristics of children and adolescents with non-specific spinal pain stratified by pain severity

BackgroundDistinguishing self-limiting (‘trivial’) from potentially consequential spinal pain in childhood and adolescence is crucial to prevent over- or under-medicalization. The aim of this study was to stratify participants for severity of spinal pain and to investigate associations of pain severity with potential consequences of pain and some psychophysical and clinical factors.MethodsIn 2020 and 2021, children and adolescents took part in a voluntary population-based spine screening event across Switzerland organized by the Swiss Chiropractors Association. The screening consisted of a questionnaire (14 questions) based on the Young Spine Questionnaire and a clinical examination by a chiropractor. Three subgroups of pain severity [no pain (including mild, occasional pain), one-sited moderate pain, one-sited severe or moderate/severe pain at multiple sites of the spine] were formed by combining the self-reported measures for pain intensity and pain frequency for two recall periods (lifetime, last week) according to literature. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the associations between pain severity and potential pain consequences (impact of spinal pain on health and seeking medical advice because of spinal pain), as well as between pain severity and some psychophysical factors (head and/or belly pain, sleep problems, daytime tiredness) and clinical measures [trunk symmetry (rib hump), trunk muscle endurance (plank position)].ResultsOf all participants (N = 457; 6–16 years; mean age = 10.9 ± 3.0 years; 220 boys), those with most severe spinal pain and with one-sited moderate pain in the last week had higher odds for reporting an impact of spinal pain on their health (OR = 13.5, 95%CI = 4.9–36.8; OR = 4.7, 95%CI = 1.5–14.4) and for searching medical advice because of spinal pain (OR = 11.6, 95%CI = 4.5–30.1; OR = 3.9, 95%CI = 1.6–9.2). Headache and/or belly pain (OR = 2.6, 95%CI = 1.2–5.5) and daytime tiredness (OR = 3.2, 95%CI = 1.3–7.9) increased the odds for having most severe pain compared to having no pain. The clinical measures were not associated with pain severity.ConclusionStratification by pain severity, particularly when asked for pain in the last week, might help to minimize over- and under-medicalization of spinal pain in childhood and adolescence. Prospective studies are needed to clarify the relevance of the investigated clinical tests in the context of adolescent spinal pain.

Effect of Body Mass Index on Balance, Trunk Muscle Endurance, Functional Mobility and, Physical Activity in College Students

Effect of Body Mass Index on Balance, Trunk Muscle Endurance, Functional Mobility and, Physical Activity in College Students

Effects of Physical Activity Level and Sedentary Behavior on the Musculoskeletal System in Young Adults

Aim: The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between the level of physical activity and sedentary behavior in young adults aged 18-35 and to evaluate the effects of this relationship on musculoskeletal pain, posture, muscle shortness, and trunk muscle endurance. Methods: In this cross-sectional descriptive study, conducted at the Faculty of Health Sciences of a university between March 2018 and August 2018, 219 students were included. Data were obtained by using the case report form which determines the demographic characteristics and sedentary behavior of the students, The International Physical Activity Index - short form, posture analysis form, muscle shortness evaluation form, and trunk muscle endurance evaluation form. Results: In the study, 66.2% of patients were female and 33.8% were male. In the evaluation of physical activity level, the ratio of highly active individuals in males, and inactive and insufficiently active individuals in females was significantly higher (p <0.05). Musculoskeletal pain was significantly higher in inactive and insufficiently active individuals (p<0.001). A negative correlation existed between physical activity level and pain frequency, duration, and scores (p<0.001). There was a positive correlation between trunk endurance tests and physical activity and exercise participation. Non-exercisers showed shortening of lumbar extensor muscles and gastrosoleus, with increased thoracic kyphosis (p<0.05). Daily sitting time correlated positively with elbow, wrist, and knee pain, and lumbar lordosis (p<0.05). Those spending more time at the computer experienced higher levels of head-neck and elbow pain, pain duration, muscle shortness, thoracic kyphosis, shoulder protraction, and anterior head tilt (p<0.05). Conclusion: In young adults, increasing physical activity and reducing daily sitting time are necessary to prevent musculoskeletal pain and reduce postural deformities. Keywords: Musculoskeletal diseases, musculoskeletal pain, physical exertion, posture, sedentary behavior, trunk muscular endurance, young adult.

Relationships of body build and physical activity with the physical fitness of high school students

Background: Physical fitness determines resourcefulness, i.e. the ability to effectively solve various tasks faced by a person and, therefore, to cope with various situations. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships of body build and physical activity with physical fitness in high school students. Methods: The research covered 194 students (104 women and 90 men) aged 16-18, attending randomly selected high schools in the Rzeszów district. The research methods were a diagnostic survey and the Eurofit test battery. The Mann-Whitney U test, Pearson’s chi-square test, and Spearman’s rank correlation were used in the analyses. Results: Statistically significant relationships were found between the preferred forms of physical activity (p=0.041, p=0.008) and the subjective assessment of physical fitness (p=0.015) and the sex of the respondents. There were statistically significant sex-related differences in the Sit-and-Reach (p<0.001), Standing Broad Jump (p<0.001), Hand Grip (p<0.001), Sit- Ups (p<0.001), Bent Arm Hang (p< 0.001), Shuttle Run (p<0.001), and Endurance Shuttle Run (p<0.001). In both groups, there were statistically significant relationships between the subjective assessment of physical fitness and the results of physical fitness tests (p<0.05). Conclusions: Women chose dancing more frequently and considered their physical fitness to be average, while men preferred team sports and assessed their physical fitness as very good. Women are characterized by greater flexibility, and men by greater explosive strength of lower limbs, static strength, strength endurance of trunk muscles, speed and agility, and cardiorespiratory endurance. In both groups, the higher the subjective assessment of physical fitness, the better the results of individual physical fitness tests.

Clinical presentation of anterior pelvic tilt and trunk muscle endurance among patients with femoroacetabular impingement syndrome: a cross-sectional study.

Femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) significantly affects the physical function and quality of life of the young and middle-aged population. Pelvic tilt and trunk muscle endurance are physical features poorly studied in FAIS. This study aimed to compare the anterior pelvic tilt and anterior, lateral, and posterior trunk muscles endurance between people with FAIS and healthy individuals, within FAIS sub types and between the symptomatic and asymptomatic hip in people with FAIS. Cross-sectional study. Participants were recruited and screened for potential eligibility at the Rehabilitation, Sports Medicine, and Physiotherapy Unit between April 2021 and February 2022. Sixty-nine patients with FAIS and 69 controls. A study adhering to STROBE guidelines recruited 138 participants (69 FAIS, 69 controls). The degree of pelvic tilt was measured by the palpation meter (PALM) tool. To assess trunk musculature endurance, isometric trunk tests described by McGill were performed (extension resistance test, flexion resistance test, and side plank test). Cases were classified based on FAIS subtypes. Differences between groups and subgroups were performed using t-tests and ANCOVA, respectively. Significant differences in anterior pelvic tilt were observed between the control and FAIS groups (P<0.001, d=0.72). Participants with FAIS exhibited greater pelvic tilt (MD=1.57, 95% CI=0.83 to 2.3). Trunk muscle endurance showed statistically significant differences (P<0.001, d=0.72) for posterior muscles. In comparisons between symptomatic and asymptomatic hips, significant differences were found in pelvic tilt (P<0.001, d=0.26) and lateral trunk muscle endurance (P<0.001, d=0.43). FAIS subtypes demonstrated significant differences in lateral trunk muscle endurance (P=0.002, η<inf>p</inf>2=0.209). This study found that patients with FAIS present large anterior pelvic tilt and lower posterior trunk muscle endurance. Although anterior pelvic tilt was comparable for all FAIS subtypes, Pincer-type with or without labral tear exhibited lower lateral trunk muscle endurance compared with Cam-type with or without labral tear. In addition, the symptomatic hip of FAIS patients showed lower lateral trunk muscle endurance compared to the asymptomatic hip. Incorporating rehabilitation strategies that address pelvic tilt and trunk muscle strengthening in individuals with FAIS might be considered as a potential means to improve these physical impairments, pending careful evaluation of their effectiveness.

Comparison of trunk muscle endurance between women with and without chronic neck pain

PurposeTo compare trunk flexor, extensor, and lateral flexor muscle endurance between women with moderate to severe disability due to chronic neck pain (CNP) and asymptomatic women. DesignObservational case-control study. MethodsThirty women with CNP and Neck Disability Index scores ranging from 30% to 70% and 28 asymptomatic women were included. The visual analog scale was used to assess neck pain intensity at rest and during activity. To assess trunk muscles endurance, trunk flexor endurance test, Sorensen test, and side bridge endurance test were performed. ResultsAnalysis of covariance indicated that neck pain group had lower body mass index-adjusted endurance times of trunk flexor, extensor, and lateral flexor muscles with large effect sizes (p < .001, η2 = 0.378-0.696). Trunk flexor endurance time showed a moderately negative correlation with neck pain intensity at rest and a weakly negative correlation with neck disability score (r = –460 and –365, p < .05). ConclusionsWomen with moderate to severe disability due to CNP exhibited decreased trunk muscle endurance, which may be a predisposing factor for low back pain. Also, trunk flexor endurance was related to neck pain complaints. A holistic approach, addressing the entire spine rather than focusing solely on the cervical region, might be useful for managing CNP. Clinical ImplicationsThe findings of reduced endurance in trunk muscles should be considered when incorporating interventions in the management of CNP to effectively address pain and disability.

Functional vs. dual-task training effects on trunk muscle function and functional fitness in older women with and without chronic low back pain: A randomized clinical trial

IntroductionNon-specific chronic low back pain (CLBP) predominantly affects women aged 40–80 years. Physical exercise is a primary treatment form, with functional training (FT) and dual-task training (DT) emerging as potential modalities due to their distinct characteristics. However, limited information exists regarding the effects of these exercise modalities on CLBP. ObjectiveTo compare the FT and DT effects on trunk function and functional fitness in CLBP older women. MethodologyThis was a randomized clinical trial with two training groups (FT and DT) and CLBP and non-CLBP individuals. We assessed the trunk stability, maximum isometric strength, endurance of trunk muscles, and functional fitness before and after 16 weeks of training ResultsWe found only time effects for circular stability and instability (p <.001), flexors (p =.006), and extensors endurance (p <.001). For the lateral flexors, there was an average reduction of 17.3 units in lateral flexor endurance in the FT compared to the DT in CLBP individuals. For the strength of the flexor, CLBP individuals exhibited an increase of 69.3 units compared to non-CLBP. For the strength of extensors, CLBP individuals showed a decrease of 75.1 units compared to non-CLBP individuals. We identified a time effect for all functional fitness measures (p <.050) ConclusionFT and DT increase trunk stability, maximum isometric strength, and endurance of trunk muscles, besides the functional fitness of CLBP older women SignificanceProfessionals can choose either training type, as there are no differences in the initial 16 weeks of intervention.

Acute Effect of Whole-Body Vibration on Trunk Endurance and Balance in Obese Female Students: Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background and Objectives: Compared to other subjects, obese people have inferior trunk muscle endurance and balance. A modern method of neuro-muscular training called whole body vibration (WBV) may improve trunk muscle endurance and balance. This study evaluates the impact of a 4-week WBV program on trunk endurance and balance in obese female students. Materials and Methods: Sixty participants from 18 to 25 years of age and with BMI values ≥ 30 were randomly distributed into two equal groups: Group A (WBV group), who received 4 min of WBV, and Group B (sham WBV group), who received WBV with a turn-off device. The training was conducted two days/week for six weeks. Trunk endurance was evaluated using the Sorensen Test (ST) and Trunk Flexor Endurance Test (TFET). The Single-Leg Test (SLT) was used to assess static balance, while the Biodex Stability System measured dynamic balance. Results: The current study demonstrated no significant differences (p > 0.05) in pre-treatment variables between Groups A and B. Post-treatment, Group A showed a significantly higher duration of the Sorensen test, TFET and SLS than Group B (p < 0.001). Moreover, Group A showed significantly lower dynamic balance (p < 0.001) than Group B. Conclusions: WBV has a short-term effect on trunk endurance and balance in obese female students. WBV can be added to the rehabilitation program for obese subjects with deficits in trunk endurance and balance.

Changes in isokinetic trunk muscle strength and endurance after two different restoration programs in people with chronic low back pain: A longitudinal retrospective study

BackgroundMultidisciplinary functional restoration programs (FRPs) aim to improve pain and function in people with chronic low back pain (CLBP). The intensity and content of FRPs varies; the benefits of one program over another are unclear. ObjectiveTo assess changes in trunk muscle strength and endurance after an intensive (IFRP) (for people on sick leave for >6 months with high levels of fear-avoidance beliefs about physical activity and work) or semi-intensive (SIFRP) (for people working) FRP in people with CLBP. MethodsLongitudinal retrospective study from March 2016 to December 2019. Setting: rehabilitation department of a tertiary care center. Trunk flexor and extensor muscle strength (60°.s−1) and endurance (120°.s−1) were measured with the Humac NORM isokinetic dynamometer at pre and post FRP. Change in isokinetic variables (peak torque, total work and flexor/extensor ratio) after each program was assessed with a paired t-test (p < 0.05). Pearson's rho and multiple linear regression assessed associations between changes in isokinetic and clinical variables and demographic characteristics. Results125 individuals, 63.2 % female, age 43.5 (10.3) years, were included. Mean low back pain intensity was 49.8 (24.9) and 37.2 (25.8)/100 and mean activity limitation (QBPDS) was 38.8 (16.4) and 32.0 (14.6)/100 in the IFRP and SFRP groups, respectively. Trunk extensor peak torque, flexor total work, extensor total work and flexor/extensor peak ratio improved significantly in both FRPs, p < 0.001. The flexor/extensor total work ratio improved in the IFRP group only, p = 0.003. Trunk extensor endurance increased more in the IFRP than the SIFRP group, the absolute pre-post differences for extensor total work [95%CI] N.m were 611.7 [495.2; 728.3] in the IFRP group and 380.0 [300.8; 459.3] in the SIFRP group. No variables were correlated and none predicted improvement in extensor total work in either group. ConclusionThis study highlights the short-term independence of clinical and trunk muscle strength and endurance changes.

Impact of Trunk Stabilization Training on Cricketers with Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain

Background: The endeavour of this study was to check the impact of trunk stabilization training on cricketers suffering from chronic non-specific low back pain. Objectives: The objectives of the study was to examine the effects of trunk stabilizing exercises in cricketers with chronic low back pain for the change in level of pain, disability and improvement of endurance of trunk muscles. Methods: The related literature was searched and reviewed for the efficacy of interventions, reliability and validity of outcome measures. Quasi-experimental approach was chosen for conducting the study with pre-intervention and post-intervention evaluation of the outcomes. Convenient sampling and random allocation in to groups were used to select and assign the sample that comprised of 15 subjects in each groups out of total sample size of 30. Standardized tools such as VAS for evaluating the pain, modified Oswestry LBP disability questionnaire for evaluating disability trunk stabilization exercises to check improvement of endurance of trunk muscles were utilized. Trunk stabilization exercises with warm up, stretching and cool down were given to group A (experimental group). Hitting pads and back care advice was given in the form of a leaflet to the group B (control group). Results: The data were analysed with help of SPSS version 21. Paired t-test was done for intra group analysis and un-paired t-test for intergroup analysis. The results of the study suggested that there was significant difference between the difference in mean values of pain, disability and endurance between the group-A&amp;B. The findings also suggested that there was significant difference within group-A and group-B for pain, disability and endurance. Conclusion: This study concluded that on both groups, the significant reductions were seen in pain, disability and endurance of subjects after 8 weeks of intervention. However, there was more reduction in pain, disability and endurance in group-A (experimental group)

Effects of abdominal bracing maneuver during walking on trunk muscle endurance in healthy staff of Northwest Institute: A randomized controlled pilot study

Effects of abdominal bracing maneuver during walking on trunk muscle endurance in healthy staff of Northwest Institute: A randomized controlled pilot study

Comparison of the efficacy of auricular vagus nerve stimulation and conventional low back rehabilitation in patients with chronic low back pain

BackgroundIn recent years, human and animal studies have provided increasing evidence that vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) can produce analgesic effects as well as alleviating resistant epilepsy and depression. Our study was designed to compare the efficacy of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation with conventional low back rehabilitation in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP). MethodsSixty patients with LBP were randomly divided into two groups. Group 1 received conventional rehabilitation and home exercise, and Group 2 received transcutaneous auricular VNS and home exercise. Both groups received treatment five days a week for three weeks. Trunk mobility (Modified Schober test, fingertip-to-floor test), muscle strength (CSMI-Cybex Humac-Norm isokinetic dynamometer and Lafayette manual muscle strength measuring device), trunk endurance, balance tests, Visual Analog Scale, Beck Depression Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Oswestry Disability Index were evaluated. ResultsAt the end of three weeks, within-group assessment results showed positive effects on mobility, functional status, depression and sleep in all groups (p < 0.05). Pain level, endurance time and flexion trunk muscle strength results showed more improvement in Group 2 (p < 0.05). Some parameters of isokinetic lower extremity quadriceps muscle strength and fall risk scores showed a significant improvement in Group 1 (p < 0.05). DiscussionVNS has been observed to be more effective on pain, trunk muscle strength and endurance duration and sleep status. Auricular VNS may be included in the treatment of patients with CLBP in whom conventional physical therapy is inadequate or not applicable.

Disability reduction following a lumbar stabilization exercise program for low back pain: large vs. small improvement subgroup analyses of physical and psychological variables

BackgroundLittle is known about why patients with low back pain (LBP) respond differently to treatment, and more specifically, to a lumbar stabilization exercise program. As a first step toward answering this question, the present study evaluates how subgroups of patients who demonstrate large and small clinical improvements differ in terms of physical and psychological changes during treatment.MethodsParticipants (n = 110) performed the exercise program (clinical sessions and home exercises) over eight weeks, with 100 retained at six-month follow-up. Physical measures (lumbar segmental instability, motor control impairments, range of motion, trunk muscle endurance and physical performance tests) were collected twice (baseline, end of treatment), while psychological measures (fear-avoidance beliefs, pain catastrophizing, psychological distress, illness perceptions, outcome expectations) were collected at four time points (baseline, mid-treatment, end of treatment, follow-up). The participants were divided into three subgroups (large, moderate and small clinical improvements) based on the change of perceived disability scores. ANOVA for repeated measure compared well-contrasted subgroups (large vs. small improvement) at different times to test for SUBGROUP × TIME interactions.ResultsStatistically significant interactions were observed for several physical and psychological measures. In all these interactions, the large- and small-improvement subgroups were equivalent at baseline, but the large-improvement subgroup showed more improvements over time compared to the small-improvement subgroup. For psychological measures only (fear-avoidance beliefs, pain catastrophizing, illness perceptions), between-group differences reached moderate to strong effect sizes, at the end of treatment and follow-up.ConclusionsThe large-improvement subgroup showed more improvement than the small-improvement subgroup with regard to physical factors typically targeted by this specific exercise program as well as for psychological factors that are known to influence clinical outcomes.

Analysis of Core Endurance and, Static and Dynamic Balance Relationship in Adolescent Athletes

Objectives: Core muscles are key components for improving sports performance and preventing injury. In addition, balance is known to have a significant effect on sports performance. This study focuses on how the static endurance of core muscles interact with the static and dynamic balance in adolescent athletes. Materials and Methods: 49 athletes [water polo (n=13), fencing (n=8) and swimming (n=28)] have participated in this study. Mc-Gill core endurance tests were used to evaluate the core muscles endurance. And, HUBER-360 device was used to evaluate the static and dynamic balance skills. Once the measurements were completed, Pearson or Spearman correlation test was used to assess the relationship between the collected data. Results: The results have revealed a moderately negative correlation between trunk flexion test and double-foot static balance test’s eyes open area value (r =-0.427; p=0.002); and a weak negative correlation among the left bridge endurance test and the eyes open test and the left foot static balance test’ area values (r=-0.306/-0.347; p&amp;lt;0.05). No relationship was observed between the core muscles endurance and the dynamic balance skills (p&amp;gt;0.05). Conclusion: Incorporating anterior core muscles endurance exercises into training regimens may be beneficial in improving static balance performance in adolescent athletes. However, it appears that the endurance of lateral and posterior trunk muscles is not associated with static and dynamic balance.

Gender-specific reference values of dynamometric and non-dynamometric trunk performance in individuals with different body fat percentages: A preliminary study.

Trunk muscles maintain steady effort with adequate strength and endurance. When the muscle performance is subpar, it might cause lower back discomfort. No reference for trunk strength and endurance has been established previously. The aim of this study was to determine the normative reference values for dynamometric and non-dynamometric tests in people with various body fat percentages. Two hundred sixty-four participants aged 19-40 years old were recruited in this cross-sectional study. The Siri equation was used to calculate the individuals body fat proportions, which were divided into normal, high, and very high body fat for men and women. The Modified Sorenson's and the Back-Leg-Chest Dynamometric tests were utilized to measure muscular performance. The means of strength in females with normal, high, and very high body fat percentages were 27.39, 25.75, and 25.37 N/m2, respectively. The males in the same category had the means of 56.48, 51.79, and 60.17 N/m2, respectively. The highest mean of endurance in females was in those with normal body fat percentage (42.28), so did males (71.02). Our findings suggest that males had higher trunk muscle strength and endurance than females, and normal-body-fat individuals had the greatest endurance regardless of gender.

The effect of anthropometric measurements and muscle endurance of the trunk and lower extremities on anatomic body awareness in healthy individuals with different levels of physical activity.

The interaction between anthropometric measurements and muscular endurance and how these factors manifest in anatomical body awareness have not yet been fully investigated. It was aimed to examine the relationship between physical activity, body anthropometric measurements and endurance and anatomical body awareness in healthy individuals. A total of 217 individuals aged 19-40 participated in the study. Participants were categorized into inactive (n = 65), minimally active (n = 80), and sufficiently active (n = 72) groups based on the international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ). Anthropometric measurements including shoulder, abdomen, waist, and hip circumferences were taken. Participants' trunk muscle endurance and lower extremity endurance was assessed through various tests. Anatomic body awareness was evaluated using the Body Awareness Questionnaire (BAQ) with established validity. While no significant difference in shoulder circumference measurements was found between the inactive and minimally active groups (p > 0.05), the sufficiently active group showed significantly higher shoulder circumference measurements compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). Significant differences were observed among all endurance tests between the groups (p < 0.05). Participants' body endurance increased significantly with higher activity levels. Moreover, anatomic body awareness exhibited significant variation among the three groups (p < 0.05), with the sufficiently active group having the highest level of anatomic body awareness. Positive correlations were found between all endurance tests and anatomic body awareness (p < 0.05), as well as a positive correlation between physical activity levels and anatomic body awareness (p < 0.05). It is suggested that physical performance and endurance increase anatomical body awareness when applied with appropriate treatment methods, can be applied for a healthier life and can be an additional application in the clinical environment.

The associations of physical parameters with the Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test, the Upper Quarter Y Balance Test, and the Upper Limb Rotation Test in professional overhead athletes

ObjectiveTo investigate the associations of glenohumeral internal (IR) and external rotation (ER), horizontal adduction (HA), and thoracic spine rotation ranges of motion (ROM), isometric muscle strength of the shoulder rotators, and trunk muscle endurance with the Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test (CKCUEST), the Upper Quarter Y Balance Test (YBT-UQ), and the Upper Limb Rotation Test (ULRT) in overhead athletes. DesignCross-sectional study. SettingsLaboratory. ParticipantsOne hundred twenty-one athletes were enrolled. Main outcome measuresIndependent variables were: IR, ER, HA, and thoracic spine rotation ROMs, isometric muscle strength of glenohumeral IR and ER muscles, and trunk muscle endurance. Dependent variables were: CKCUEST, YBT-UQ, ULRT. ResultsIR ROM of the nondominant side was associated with the CKCUEST, the YBT-UQ, and the ULRT. IR muscle strength of the dominant side was associated with the CKCUEST and the ULRT. Trunk flexor and lateral endurance of the dominant side were associated with the CKCUEST and the YBT-UQ, respectively. ConclusionsMany of the physical parameters influencing scores on the CKCUEST and the YBT-UQ are different. Common parameters influence the CKCUEST and ULRT scores, yet more parameters influence the CKCUEST score. We suggest the combined use of the CKCUEST and the YBT-UQ in overhead athletes.

Efficacy of Core Muscle Exercise Combined with Interferential Therapy in Alleviating Chronic Low Back Pain in High-Performance Fighter Pilots: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BackgroundChronic low back pain (LBP) related to flight is a prevalent health issue in military aviation, impacting pilots. The objective of this investigation was to ascertain if the application of core muscle training in conjunction with interferential current (IFC) therapy results in a reduction in pain severity and associated disability, consequently enhancing core muscle functionality in Chinese Air Force high-performance fighter pilots experiencing chronic LBP.MethodsFifty-three fighter pilots with chronic LBP were randomized into 3 groups: a core muscle exercise combined with IFC group (CG, n = 19), a core muscle exercise group (EG, n = 19), and an IFC group (IG, n = 15). The three groups underwent therapeutic intervention 5 times a week for 12 weeks. The primary outcomes were pain intensity, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score and SF-12 health-related quality of life (PCS and MCS) score. Secondary outcomes included evaluations of trunk muscle strength, endurance, and range of motion (ROM) during medial/lateral rotation to assess muscle functionality. Measurements were obtained both before and after the implementation of the intervention therapy.ResultsAfter 12 weeks of intervention therapy, all the health condition parameters significantly improved among the three groups. However, the CG had a significant improvement in pain intensity compared to the EG (MD = − 0.84 scores; 95% CI = − 1.54 to − 0.15; p = 0.013) and the IG (MD = − 1.22 scores; 95% CI = − 1.96 to − 0.48; p = 0.000). Additionally, the CG led to greater conservation of ODI and improved SF-12 PCS scores than did the IG (p < 0.05). Finally, compared with those at baseline, the core muscle function parameters in the CG and EG improved significantly at the end of the study, but no statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups (p > 0.05).ConclusionAmong participants with chronic LBP, three intervention therapies appear effective in reducing pain, diminishing disability, and enhancing quality of life. Also, combined therapy significantly improved pain and disability compared to the other two monotherapies; moreover, combined therapy and core muscle exercise provided similar benefits in terms of core muscle function after 12 weeks of intervention therapy.

Are trunk stability and endurance determinant factors for whole-body dynamic balance in physically active young males? A multidimensional analysis.

Determine if (a) a better trunk stability and endurance are associated with an improved whole-body dynamic balance, and if (b) the assessment tests can be interchanged within each capability. Sixty-three physically active young males performed three trunk stability (i.e., the lumbopelvic stability, the unstable sitting and the sudden loading sitting tests), three trunk muscle endurance (i.e., the Biering-Sørensen, the side bridge and the front bridge tests) and four whole-body dynamic balance (i.e., the tandem and the single-leg stance, the Y-Balance, and the single-leg triple hop tests) tests two times. After assessing the reliability of the variables, a Pearson correlation analysis was performed. The correlations between trunk stability and endurance tests with dynamic balance tests were non-significant except for the unstable sitting test with both the tandem (r = 0.502) and the single-leg stance (r = 0.522) tests. Moreover, no relationships were observed between the trunk stability and the trunk muscle endurance tests. Interestingly, no relationships were found between most tests within each capability (i.e., trunk stability, trunk endurance, and dynamic balance) except: (i) the front bridge stability test and the back (r = 0.461) and the side (r = 0.499) bridge stability tests; (ii) the two side bridge endurance tests (r = 0.786); (iii) the tandem and the single-leg stance tests (0.439 ≤ r ≤ 0.463); (iv) the Y-Balance and the single-leg triple hop tests (0.446 ≤ r ≤ 0.477). Better trunk function does not seem to be a relevant factor for dynamic balance in young active males. In this population, specific measures are needed as the test interchangeability is questioned.