Purpose: Among athletic populations with lower extremity amputations, chronic non-specific low back pain (LBP) represents a prevalent complication that significantly impairs physical comfort, vertebral mobility, and overall well-being. To address this, manual therapy is often introduced as a conservative, non-drug restorative strategy. The primary objective of the current investigation was to evaluate how a structured 6-week massage intervention influences pain intensity, thoracolumbar flexibility, and health-related quality of life in amputee athletes suffering from persistent non-specific LBP. Methods: Utilizing a quasi-experimental design, volunteers were enrolled and allocated into either an un-treated control cohort (mean age: 35.53±9.28 years; BMI: 24.56±1.88kg/m2) or a treatment collective (mean age: 40.53±7.66 years; BMI: 23.19±2.30 kg/m2). Pre-intervention data collection encompassed clinical discomfort severity, lumbar spine flexibility, sleep metrics, and subjective well-being via the WHOQOL tool. Individuals in the intervention arm participated in three weekly massage sessions spanning six weeks, whereas the control cohort sustained their baseline habits. Final post-intervention profiles were recorded immediately after the final week. Statistical evaluations comprised paired-sample t-tests, ANCOVA, and non-parametric Wilcoxon/Mann-Whitney criteria, establishing significance at P<0.05. Results: Post-test indicators revealed substantial enhancements within the massaged cohort regarding lower back discomfort reduction (p=0.001), expanded trunk flexibility (p=0.001), and boosted quality of life scores (p≤0.01) relative to the control group. The data confirmed distinct inter-group variances favoring the active treatment arm upon trial completion. Conclusion: Implementing a 6-week manual soft-tissue manipulation program serves as a viable, productive approach to mitigate lumbosacral pain while simultaneously advancing daily physical capacity and health satisfaction in disabled athletes dealing with post-amputation spinal discomfort.
Purpose: Hamstring strain is the most common injury in sprinters, and eccentric exercise is one of the most effective interventions. Despite numerous studies in this field, the effect of home-based eccentric exercise (HBEE) on the sports performance of sprinters prone to hamstring-stiffness-related injuries has not been examined. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of four weeks of HBEE on the stiffness, speed, and power of sprinters. Methods: The current quasi-experimental research was conducted on 32 sprinters (control group:16 athletes, age: 21.50±1.63 years; height: 176.81±5.54 cm; weight: 70.44±7.54 kg; sprinting background: 6.56±1.51 years, and body mass index (BMI): 22.51±1.97, and training: 16 athletes, age: 22.19±1.68 years; height: 175.01±6.70 cm; weight: 67.31±7.50 kg; sprinting background: 7.19±1.55 years, and BMI: 21.94±1.74). Straight leg raising (SLR) angle, popliteal angle, and perceived stiffness tests were used to assess hamstring stiffness, and 100 and 60-meter running and vertical jump tests were used to evaluate speed and power. The training group (eight without and eight with hamstring tightness) performed six progressive eccentric exercises at home for 12 sessions over four weeks. Results: Analysis of covariance revealed that, after implementing this protocol, the hamstring stiffness and sprint records (60- and 100-meter sprint times) of the training group decreased significantly (P=0.01). After after four weeks of training, the SLR angle increased from 70.62 to 76.3° (8% improvement); and the popliteal angle from 155.41 to 163.49° (5% improvement); perceived stiffness decreased from 2.72 to 0.99 (62% improvement); 100 m running time decreased from 12.96 to 12.62 s (2.6% improvement). The 60 m running from 7.10 to 6.69 s (5.7% improvement), but had no significant effect on power (vertical jump). Conclusion: The present protocol is recommended for sprinters with hamstring stiffness. Its implementation improves hamstring flexibility and reduces the risk of injury due to stiffness, while also improving running speed. Also, running coaches can use this protocol as a training program to increase performance and reduce the risk of injury for sprinters with hamstring stiffness.
Purpose: The study aimed to assess the efficacy of core stability exercises (CSE) versus conventional therapy in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain (CNLBP) in the management of pain, disability, and fear-avoidance beliefs. Methods: A randomized single-blind controlled trial was conducted from April to September 2024 at Celina Care Clinic and Al Shifa’ Specialized Complex in Bethlehem, Palestine, to compare the effects of CSE combined with conventional treatment therapy (CTT) versus CTT alone in adult patients with CNLBP. Sixty eligible patients were randomly assigned using computer-generated probability sampling by an independent researcher, with the allocation concealed in sealed envelopes. The intervention lasted four weeks, with three sessions per week for each group. Group A received CSE+CTT (hot packs, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, and massage therapy), while Group B received only CTT. Outcome measures, including the visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry disability index (ODI), and fear-avoidance belief questionnaire (FABQ), were assessed at baseline and post-intervention. Results: The study demonstrated that combining CSE with CTT significantly improved outcomes compared to CTT alone in patients with CNLBP. The CSE+CTT group showed greater reductions in pain levels (VAS: -4.70 vs -2.36, effect size 1.51, P<0.001), (FABQ-work subscale [FABQW]: -13.3 vs -3.76, effect size 2.58, P<0.001) and (FABQ-physical activity subscale [FABQPA]: -7.93 vs -2.26, effect size 2.77, P<0.001), as well as disability (ODI: -14.53% vs -5.13%, effect size 2.03, P<0.001). These findings highlight the efficacy of incorporating CSE into standard treatment for CNLBP. Conclusion: This study examined the effects of adding stability exercises to traditional therapy on fear-avoidance beliefs. Although therapeutic exercises are well studied, this research is novel in using the Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire to evaluate the added benefit of stability exercises, emphasizing their role in addressing psychological aspects of rehabilitation. While limited by a small sample size, short follow-up, and recruitment from two centers, the findings suggest that integrating stability exercises into conventional care may improve psychological outcomes in patients with CNLBP.
Purpose: Basketball, a popular sport, often leads to ankle injuries, prompting the need for effective preventive training. It has been illustrated that plyometric, balance and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) trainings reduce the injury rate between basketball players; however, these trainings alone are not sufficient for fully enhancing ankle muscle electrical activity. Objectives: This study aimed to compare the effects of plyometric, balance, PNF and combined trainings on ankle muscle electrical activity (tibialis anterior [TA], peroneus longus [PL], gastrocnemius medialis [GM], soleus [SL]) during single-leg jumps. Although previous studies have examined ankle muscle activation during jumping, a systematic analysis of electromyographic (EMG) patterns across all four biomechanical phases has not been comprehensively conducted. This study offers a comprehensive phase-by-phase assessment to identify precise neuromuscular deficits and optimize injury prevention strategies for basketball players. Methods: The study participants consisted of 75 young basketball players (aged 12–16 years) with no history of ankle injuries and participants were randomly assigned to five equal groups (n=15 each). The single-leg box jump test was systematically analyzed across four biomechanically defined phases. Results: The results indicated that combined training was most effective in reducing electrical ankle activity in specific ankle muscles. Plyometric training decreased activity in TA, PL, and SL (phase 1), GM and SL (phase 2), and GM and TA (phases 3–4). Balance training influenced TA and PL (phase 1), GM (phase 2), GM and SL (phase 3), and TA (phase 4), while PNF showed no significant impact. Conclusion: The study concludes that while individual training methods improve specific aspects of ankle stability, combined training offers a comprehensive solution by enhancing strength and reducing injury risk across all jump phases, making it a suitable option for inclusion in warm-up protocols.
Purpose: Shoulder injuries are common in CrossFit athletes, with scapular dysfunction playing a key role. Given the scapula’s key role in force transmission and shoulder stability, this study aimed to investigate the effect of a corrective exercise program on improving shoulder stability in CrossFit athletes. Methods: This quasi-experimental study initially enrolled 26 male CrossFit athletes aged 25–30 years recruited via purposive sampling from local clubs and selected based on predefined eligibility criteria. An a priori power analysis (G*Power software, version 3.1; effect size=0.54, α=0.05, power=0.80) indicated a minimum of 24 participants; to accommodate approximately 10% attrition, 26 were enrolled and equally allocated to intervention and control groups (13/13). Scapular stability was assessed with the Davis Test pre- and post-intervention. Data normality was examined with the Shapiro–Wilk test; within-group changes were analyzed using paired t-tests, and between-group effects with analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) (adjusting for pretest values). Two control participants were lost to follow-up; analyses were completed on 24 athletes. All analyses were performed using SPSS software, version 26 (α=0.05). Results: The intervention group showed significant improvements in scapular stability, with Davis test record increasing by 8.4% and power output increasing by 8.4% (P<0.01), while the control group showed no significant changes (P>0.05). Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) confirmed significant between-group differences in both Davis Test record (adjusted Mean±SD: 13.42±1.20 vs 12.67±1.65; partial η²=0.205) and power output (adjusted Mean±SD: 1138.23±98.67 vs 1050.76±134.55; partial η²=0.241; P<0.05), demonstrating the effectiveness of the corrective exercise program. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that the selected corrective exercises can improve scapular function and enhance shoulder stability. This improvement contributes to increased shoulder strength and power, ultimately contributing to the improvment of movement dysfunctions.
Purpose: This editorial review aims to synthesize current evidence on walking and running biomechanics following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, with a specific focus on recovery patterns at 6, 12, and 18 months post‑surgery. The goal is to highlight temporal changes in spatiotemporal, kinematic, kinetic, and neuromuscular variables that influence functional recovery, return-to-sport readiness, and long‑term joint health. Methods: Relevant peer‑reviewed studies published in recent years were analyzed, including longitudinal, cross‑sectional, and meta‑analytic research investigating gait and running mechanics after ACL reconstruction. Data from biomechanical assessments such as 3D motion analysis, force‑plate evaluations, muscle activation studies, and strength testing were synthesized to identify key recovery trends across the three time points. Results: At 6 months post-surgery, pronounced asymmetries in walking and running mechanics persist, including reduced knee flexion, lower knee extensor moments, diminished power generation, and neuromuscular inhibition of the quadriceps. By 12 months, walking mechanics show partial normalization; however, significant deficits in running particularly in knee abduction moments, loading symmetry, and hip control remain in many patients. At 18 months, most walking parameters approach normal values, while subtle running asymmetries may still persist in tasks requiring higher neuromuscular demand. Continued neuromuscular training beyond 12 months appears to enhance recovery and reduce reinjury risk. Conclusion: Biomechanical recovery after ACL reconstruction progresses beyond traditional 9–12 month timelines, with running mechanics showing greater sensitivity to persistent deficits than walking. Recognizing these delayed recovery patterns is essential for improving rehabilitation strategies, optimizing return‑to‑sport decisions, and minimizing long‑term joint degeneration. Extended, individualized rehabilitation and objective biomechanical assessment are recommended to better support functional and structural recovery.
Purpose: A strong core is a crucial prerequisite for participation in many sports. This study aimed to investigate the effect of core stability exercises on functional movement screen (FMS) scores, balance, and performance in elite basketball players. Methods: Thirty-four adult male elite basketball players were divided into core exercise and control groups, with the core exercise group performing an eight-week core stability exercise protocol. Balance, movement patterns, and performance were evaluated using the Y-balance test (YBT), the FMS, the Single-Leg Hop Test, the Zigzag Triple-Hop Test, the Davies Test, and the Square Hop Test, respectively. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, followed by analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) for parametric data and Quade’s test for non-parametric data. Results: The findings indicated a significant difference between the core exercise and control groups in total FMS score (P=0.001), single-leg hop test (P=0.001), zigzag triple hop test (P=0.001), dominant upper limb balance scores (P=0.001), non-dominant upper limb balance scores (P=0.001), square hop test (P=0.001), and Davies closed kinetic chain (CKC) test (P=0.001). Conclusion: The current study’s results showed that after eight weeks of core stability exercises, elite basketball players experienced significant improvements in FMS scores, balance, and performance. These findings highlight the positive effect of core-focused exercises on enhancing movement efficiency and athletic performance, which may have important implications for reducing injury risk in elite athletes.
Purpose: COVID-19 is associated with various psychological effects, including increased anxiety and fatigue, in addition to its negative impact on physiological systems. This study aimed to investigate the effect of smartphone-based respiratory biofeedback on anxiety and fatigue among patients with COVID-19. Methods: In this experimental study, 76 patients with COVID-19 hospitalized in Firouzgar Hospital (Tehran Province, Iran) were assigned to intervention and control groups. The intervention group received routine medical care supplemented with respiratory biofeedback breathing exercises delivered via smartphone. Each session lasted 30 minutes and was conducted twice daily for 10 sessions. The control group received only routine medical treatment. Fatigue was assessed using the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory, and anxiety levels were measured with the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Results: Following the intervention, patients in the biofeedback group experienced a significantly greater reduction in fatigue and anxiety compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The control group, which received routine treatment alone, also demonstrated some improvement in symptoms (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The findings indicate that smartphone-based respiratory biofeedback is effective in reducing both anxiety and fatigue among patients with COVID-19. This intervention, when integrated with standard medical care, offers significant psychological and physical symptom relief, highlighting its potential as a valuable non-pharmacological addition to comprehensive COVID-19 management.
Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the potential of core stabilization exercises and specific National academy of sports medicine (NASM) exercises, both delivered through online supervision, in reducing fear of movement, managing pain, and enhancing functional performance among elite Taekwondo athletes suffering from chronic non-specific low back pain (CNSLBP). Methods: A quasi-experimental design with pre-test and post-test measures was implemented, including 30 elite Taekwondo athletes with CNSLBP. Participants in both intervention groups completed three weekly sessions over eight weeks. Pain intensity, fear of movement, and functional abilities were assessed using validated tools, including the visual analogue scale (VAS), Tampa fear of movement scale, and the functional movement screen (FMS). Results: Both interventions significantly improved pain, kinesiophobia, and functional movement. However, core stability exercises demonstrated superior results compared to NASM exercises in alleviating pain, reducing fear of movement, and improving functional mobility. Pain scores showed a significantly greater reduction in the core stability group compared to the NASM group (P=0.001), and movement-related fear scores were also significantly lower in the core stability group (P=0.003). The core stability group demonstrated significantly superior improvements in functional movement scores (P=0.009). Conclusion: Core stability exercises, particularly under online supervision, are effective in managing pain, reducing fear of movement, and enhancing movement performance in elite Taekwondo athletes with CNSLBP. Core stability exercises, proven superior to NASM interventions, should be integrated into rehabilitation programs to alleviate clinical symptoms and enhance athletic performance. Additionally, the findings underscore the potential of online supervision as a viable alternative for effective training and rehabilitation.
Purpose: Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are key mediators of interorgan communication during exercise, with growing research interest in their role in exercise physiology and health. This study aimed to map the research landscape of exercise-related EVs from 2010 to 2024 using bibliometric analysis. Methods: We analyzed 398 publications (252 articles and 146 reviews) from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC), employing the Bibliometrix R package software, version 4.4.1, VOSviewer software, version 1.6.20, and Microsoft Excel to evaluate publication trends, key contributors, and research foci. Results: The field exhibits a robust annual growth rate of 30.38%, with a peak of 85 publications and 2411 citations in 2023. China and the United States lead publication output, together accounting for 36% of total publications, with key institutions, including the University of Pittsburgh and Harvard University. Core journals, such as Frontiers in Physiology and International Journal of Molecular Sciences, dominate the field. Keyword analysis highlights “ EVs,” “exosomes,” “exercise,” and “skeletal muscle” as central themes, alongside emerging topics, such as micro ribonucleic acids (microRNAs), oxidative stress, and insulin resistance. Conclusion: These findings underscore the increasing recognition of EVs as critical mediators of exercise-induced interorgan crosstalk and their potential as biomarkers for health and disease, providing a foundation for future interdisciplinary research in exercise physiology and EV biology.
Purpose: This study aimed to review the impact of ergonomic chairs on clinical and biomechanical outcomes for seated workers. Methods: We adhered to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to determine article eligibility and evaluated methodological quality using the physiotherapy evidence database (PEDro) scale. The strength of the evidence was appraised using the grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluations (GRADE) framework. A narrative synthesis was then conducted to summarize the extracted data in descriptive form. Results: A total of 32 randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria and were included in the qualitative synthesis, involving 1,637 participants. The review showed that ergonomic chair designs have mixed results for pain reduction, with some improvements but not consistently across studies. Positive and consistent outcomes were observed in comfort enhancement. The impact on disability was not significant, while benefits were noted in reducing spinal shrinkage and altering muscle activation. Furthermore, ergonomic chairs influenced energy expenditure, body kinematics, and pressure distribution, while dynamic, custom-designed systems enhanced trunk muscle activation. An adjustable chair positively affected joint posture. Conclusion: Ergonomic chairs, especially dynamic and adjustable ones, provide comfort and biomechanical support to seated workers; although, the benefits regarding pain reduction are inconsistent. These findings suggest that choosing ergonomically designed chairs is a positive step toward workplace wellness. Further research is needed to standardize designs and optimize interventions for various occupational settings.
Purpose: Shoulder injuries are prevalent among fast bowlers due to repetitive high-velocity overhead movements, commonly resulting in rotator cuff tears, superior labrum anterior-posterior (SLAP) lesions, and shoulder impingement. These injuries affect both physical function and psychological readiness, posing challenges for return-to-sport outcomes. Case Presentation: This case study reports the rehabilitation of a 30-year-old male professional fast bowler who presented with a Grade 2C rotator cuff tear, SLAP tear and signs of shoulder impingement confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The athlete underwent arthroscopic repair followed by a structured 12-week rehabilitation program. The rehabilitation protocol was delivered in three progressive phases focusing on pain management, range of motion (ROM) restoration, scapular and rotator cuff strengthening and sport-specific drills. Psychological readiness was concurrently addressed using the injury psychological readiness to return to sport scale. Outcomes were measured using the visual analogue scale (VAS), shoulder pain and disability index (SPADI), injury-psychological readiness to return to sport scale (I-PRRS), ROM and manual muscle testing (MMT). Assessments were conducted at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks postoperatively. Results: The athlete demonstrated significant improvements in pain, function (SPADI: Reduced from 72% to 9%), and psychological readiness (I-PRRS: Increased from 38 to 92). ROM improved to near-normal values, and MMT scores increased from Grade 3 to 5. The athlete successfully returned to competitive bowling without complications. Conclusion: A multidimensional, phased rehabilitation program that integrates physical and psychological recovery strategies can effectively restore shoulder function and performance in elite fast bowlers post-surgery. This case underscores the importance of individualized, sport specific rehabilitation in overhead athletes
Purpose. This study investigates the effects of intensive selected physical exercises on student physical fitness Materials and Methods. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 120 participants aged 18-19. The Exercise group participated in 12 weeks of intensive, selected physical exercises, while the control group maintained their usual exercise routine. Physical Fitness Tests were administered to both groups to assess the effect of the intervention. One-way ANOVA was used to compare groups, and paired samples t-tests were conducted to assess within-group changes. Results. It demonstrated significant between-group differences at the endpoint for six key tests: handgrip strength (F = 7.891, p = .006), sit-ups (F = 51.969, p < 0.001), standing long jump (F = 15.673, p = .006), 30-meter sprint (F = 21.925, p = .006), 4x10-meter shuttle run (F = 9.048, p = .003), and the 5-minute run test (F = 7.591, p = .007). These findings indicate that the exercise group exhibited significant enhancements in upper and lower limb strength, abdominal strength, speed, agility, body control, and endurance compared to the control group following twelve weeks of intensive, selected exercise training Conclusions. Intensive selected physical exercises demonstrate superior effectiveness in enhancing student physical fitness compared to traditional class activities, as evidenced by improved performance on physical fitness tests.
Purpose: Occupational musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among the most common health problems in the taxi driver community. Considering the importance of the workforce and the variety of methods available for evaluating the risk of MSDs, this study aimed to assess MSDs and examine the agreement between the workplace ergonomic risk assessment (WERA), quick exposure check (QEC), and assessment of repetitive tasks (ART) among taxi drivers. Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted in 2024 in Tehran on 140 urban taxi drivers. Additional information was collected using a demographic questionnaire and a body map to ensure a more comprehensive assessment. Selected samples should have at least one year of driving experience. On the other hand, people who had a history of musculoskeletal surgery were excluded from this study. Since participation was voluntary, people who expressed their unwillingness to participate in the study could withdraw from the study. Specialists took photographs and recorded videos of participants in different postures while driving. Subsequently, the risk of MSDs among drivers was assessed using the WERA, ART, and QEC methods, and the results were analyzed with SPSS software, version 24. Results: The highest severity of MSDs among taxi drivers was observed in the lower back and knees, respectively. No significant relationship was found between age and the occurrence of MSDs among participants (P>0.05). Risk assessments using the WERA and ART methods indicated that the studied population was at a medium risk level, while the QEC method results showed a low-risk level. Conclusion: Prolonged sitting and repetitive clutch pedal use are significant contributors to increased lower-back and knee pain. The findings also revealed agreement between the WERA and ART in evaluating the risk of musculoskeletal disorders.
Purpose: Gender differences in cognitive processing and brain function have been widely studied, but their interaction with postural changes remains underexplored. This study assessed how sitting posture (upright vs forward head posture) affects prefrontal brain activation in males and females, as measured by functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). Methods: Twenty-seven healthy participants (14 males, age=21.5±1.5 years, 13 females, age= 24.6±1.9 years) performed the stop-signal task in the upright and forward head sitting posture. At the same time, the oxygenation levels of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) were measured. Gender-based differences in oxygenation patterns were analyzed. Results: We observed a significant difference in deoxy-Hb levels between males and females across different sitting postures. However, sitting posture did not significantly affect prefrontal activity, processing speed, accuracy, or inhibitory control abilities. Conclusion: Within the confines of this study, significant differences were found in deoxy-Hb levels between males and females across different sitting postures. However, sitting posture did not significantly affect participants’ inhibitory control abilities or prefrontal activity. The interaction between gender and sitting posture suggests possible differences in the effects on cognitive processes between males and females. It is plausible that the limited duration of sitting posture exposure may have mitigated substantial changes in cognitive performance or brain oxygenation. Future studies should consider longer intervention durations and a more thorough exploration of potential confounding variables.
Purpose: Pelvic floor disorders span a broad spectrum of common illnesses that impact the pelvic floor area in various ways. These conditions have a substantial financial, emotional, and physical impact on people, families, and society as a whole. Kinesio taping (KT) is utilized in the management and prevention of several pelvic floor disorders; however, there is insufficient research on KT’s effectiveness in this context. Consequently, the precise impact of this therapeutic approach on different pelvic floor issues remains unclear. To gain a better understanding of the effects of KT on the treatment of various pelvic floor dysfunctions, the current study aimed to conduct a systematic evaluation of all relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Methods: The following keywords were used to search databases, such as PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Medline, and Web of Science: Kinesio-taping, kinesiology taping, pelvic floor physiotherapy, pelvic floor conservative treatment, pelvic floor dysfunction, pelvic floor disorder, vaginal dysfunction, anal or defecatory dysfunction, urethral dysfunction, urge incontinence, stress incontinence, overactive bladder (OAB), constipation, sexual dysfunction, vaginismus, pelvic floor dyssynergia, erectile dysfunction, pelvic organ prolapse, voiding dysfunction, and chronic pelvic pain syndrome, as of March 2024. The checklist from the critical appraisal skills program (CASP) was utilized to evaluate the articles’ quality and bias risk. There were six RCTs that satisfied the inclusion/exclusion criteria and were reviewed. Results: There was insufficient evidence to suggest that incorporating KT is more clinically effective than placebo or some of other physiotherapy treatment modalities for urinary and defecatory dysfunctions and pelvic girdle pain. However, significant decreases were noted in the frequency of incontinence occurrences, and positive effects were observed on depression test results, defecation frequency (DF), duration, consistency, strain, pain, and ultimately improvement in quality of life. Conclusion: The findings revealed that the KT alone or in combination of other physiotherapy treatment modalities, have beneficial effects on some pelvic floor dysfunctions. However, due to the limitations of the studies, this research area requires more substantial evidence.
Purpose: This study examined how low-dye tape and navicular sling kinesiotape impacts athletic performance in fatigue conditions in basketball athletes with flat feet. Methods: The current research was conducted on 12 professional basketball players aged 18 to 25 years with flat feet. The Staheli Index, Y Balance test, 20-meter speed test, modified t-test, and Sargent test were employed to assess flat feet, dynamic balance, speed, agility, and power. A basketball-specific performance fatigue protocol was used to induce performance fatigue, and treatments included low-dye taping and navicular sling kinesiotape. Results: Statistical analysis indicated that low-dye taping significantly improved dynamic balance in both fatigued (P=0.01) and non-fatigued (P=0.01) conditions (F=18.33). Additionally, performance fatigue negatively affected dynamic balance in both low-dye taping and non-taping conditions (P=0.01). It also led to impaired performance in the 20-meter speed test in the low-dye and Kinesiotape conditions (0.49 and 0.60), as well as a 3.75 cm reduction in the Sargent test in the non-taping condition. Additionally, the low-dye taping condition led to a 0.68-second decrease in agility performance. Conclusion: While fatigue did have an impact on performance, low-dye taping, and Navicular Sling Kinesiotape resulted in a smaller performance decline compared to non-taping conditions. In addition, low-dye taping had a greater effect on performance and flat foot than Navicular Sling Kinesiotape. It is recommended that basketball players with flat feet use low-dye taping and Navicular Sling Kinesiotape.
Purpose: The present study aimed to compare the effect of wobble board and TRX training on static and dynamic balance in athletes with functional ankle instability. Methods: A total of 35 athletes with functional ankle instability were randomly divided into three groups: wobble board training, TRX training, and control. The anthropometric variables and the static and dynamic balance indices of subjects were evaluated using the Biodex balance assessment tool in three stages: pre-test, post-test, and follow-up (6 weeks after post-test). Subsequently, the training groups performed their relevant exercises for 6 weeks. The repeated-measures analysis of variance and Bonferroni post-hoc test were used for the statistical analyses. The significance level was considered <0.05. Results: The repeated-measures ANOVA results showed that the static and dynamic balance indices of the subjects in the training groups significantly improved from the pre-test to the post-test (P≤0.05). Additionally, the results indicated that 6 weeks after the post-test stage, the positive effects of wobble board and TRX training did not diminish in either training group (P≤0.05). However, the balance indices evaluated in the control group did not show any significant difference at any of the measurement points (P≥0.05). Conclusion: Athletes with functional ankle instability often struggle with deficiencies in both static and dynamic balance, which increases their vulnerability to re-injury during dynamic movements. Our findings suggest that incorporating functional-based approaches, such as wobble-board and TRX exercises, can serve as effective strategies for enhancing balance in athletes with functional ankle instability.
Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the effects of central and peripheral fatigue on the golf swing, focusing on how these two types of fatigue influence movement variability and movement smoothness during performance. Methods: This semi-experimental study included 30 female students (aged 20–35 years) with normal vision from Tehran City. Participation was voluntary, with informed consent obtained, and participants were stratified into three groups based on inclusion criteria: Central fatigue, peripheral fatigue, and a non-intervention control group. First, a demographic questionnaire was administered. Central and peripheral fatigue were assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS) and the Borg Scale, while motor coordination parameters were evaluated using qualisys motion analysis software. Results: Repeated-measures ANOVA revealed a statistically significant difference in mean motor coordination variability among the three groups in the post-test (P=0.001). Post-hoc comparisons showed that the non-intervention group had significantly lower motor coordination variability than both the central (P=0.001) and peripheral fatigue (P=0.001) groups. Additionally, motor coordination in the central fatigue group was significantly lower than in the peripheral fatigue group (P=0.001). Further analysis indicated that the non-intervention group exhibited a lower mean jerk (i.e. smoother movement) compared to both the central and peripheral fatigue groups (P=0.001). Conclusion: The findings provide empirical evidence that central and peripheral fatigue differentially impair golf swing execution, with distinct effects on movement variability and smoothness.
Purpose: Hyperlordosis is a postural condition characterized by excessive lumbar spine curvature, often associated with pain and musculoskeletal dysfunction. This study aimed to investigate NASM-based core stability training using taekwondo (TKD) movements in male individuals with hyperlordosis. Methods: This quasi-experimental research included 30 lordotic soldiers from the AJA University of Medical Sciences in Tehran, divided into the TKD group (n=15) and a non-TKD group (n=15). Before and after an 8-week protocol, lumbar lordosis angle, pain levels, and abdominal muscle endurance were measured via spinal mouse (SM) device (IDIAG M360®, Fehraltorf, Switzerland), visual analogue scale (VAS), and a sit-up test, respectively. Inferential statistics were analyzed using ANCOVA. Additionally, paired t-tests were conducted for within-group comparisons. Results: A significant difference was found between the two groups in the degree of hyperlordosis (P<0.000), VAS score (P<0.000), and abdominal muscle endurance test (P<0.000), even when accounting for the pre-test effect as a covariate. This indicates that incorporating TKD movements with core stability exercises had an impact. Conclusion: TKD, with its dynamic, full-body movements, may prove more effective than isolated core strengthening exercises in reducing pain, lumbar lordotic angles, and improving abdominal muscle endurance in individuals with hyperlordosis. The enhanced efficacy of TKD in these variables can likely be attributed to its ability to engage multiple muscle groups, improve neuromuscular coordination, and address the complex postural and muscular imbalances associated with hyperlordosis.
