CORRELATION OF THE SAGITTAL BALANCE WITH POSTURAL ANALYSIS OF THE PELVIS AND LUMBAR SPINE.

Objective: Evaluate and correlate the sagittal balance parameters with the postural of the pelvis and lumbar spine. Methods: 80 individuals of both sexes, aged between 20 and 35 years, were evaluated. Biophotogrammetry was done with the SAPO software program. Measurements of the sagittal balance parameters were obtained by analyzing a lateral view panoramic radiography of the vertebral column, in which the anatomical points of reference were digitally marked. The calculation of the angles was done automatically by the Keops program. Results: In Keops assessment, 17.5% of the sample had high pelvic incidence angles (> 60°), 31.5% had low pelvic incidence angles (< 45°), and 51.2% had medium pelvic incidence angles (between 46° and 59°). SAPO showed 12,5% lordosis, 40% retroversion, and 47,5% normal curvature. In the right lateral view, pelvic incidence angle had a moderate and positive correlation with vertical alignment of the trunk and with vertical alignment of the body, and a negative and moderate correlation with horizontal alignment of the pelvis. Conclusion: Differences were found between vertical alignment measurements from the postural evaluation system (SAPO). A positive correlation was found between PI from Keops and pelvic anteversion from SAPO. Level of Evidence II; Prospective Study.

Objetivo: Avaliar e correlacionar o equilíbrio sagital com parâmetros posturais da pelve e coluna lombar. Métodos: Foram avaliados 80 indivíduos de ambos os sexos, com idade entre 20 e 35 anos. A biofotogrametria foi realizada com o software SAPO. As medidas dos parâmetros do equilíbrio sagital foram obtidas pela análise de uma radiografia panorâmica em perfil da coluna vertebral, na qual os pontos anatômicos de referência foram marcados digitalmente. O cálculo dos ângulos foi feito automaticamente pelo programa Keops. Resultados: Na avaliação Keops, 17,5% da amostra apresentavam ângulos de incidência pélvicos altos (> 60°), 31,5% tinham ângulos de incidência pélvicos baixos (< 45°) e 51,2% apresentavam ângulos de incidência pélvicos médios (entre 46° e 59°). O SAPO apresentou 12,5% de lordose, 40% de retroversão e 47,5% de curvatura normal. Na vista lateral direita, o ângulo de incidência da pelve apresentou correlação moderada e positiva com o alinhamento vertical do tronco e com o alinhamento vertical do corpo e negativa e moderada com o alinhamento horizontal da pelve. Conclusão: Foram encontradas diferenças entre as medidas de alinhamento vertical do sistema de avaliação postural (SAPO). Uma correlação positiva foi encontrada entre IP de Keops e anteversão pélvica de SAPO. Nível de Evidência II; Estudo Prospectivo.

Advanced glycation end products consumption and the decline of functional capacity in patients with Parkinson's disease: Cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION: Advanced Glycation End-Products (AGEs) are a diverse group of highly reactive molecules that play a vital role in the development of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's Disease (PD), leading to a decline in functional and cognitive capacity. The objective of this study was to assess the intake and quantification of AGEs in individuals with PD and to correlate them with their functional and cognitive abilities. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study involving 20 PD patients and 20 non-PD individuals as the Control group (C). The autofluorescence reader was used to evaluate skin AGEs, while food recall was used to quantify AGEs consumed for three different days. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Short Physical Performance Battery, and handgrip tests were used. PD patients demonstrated greater impairment in functional capacity compared to the control group. RESULTS: Dominant Handgrip (p = 0.02) and motor performance, in the sit and stand test (p = 0.01) and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) (p = 0.01) were inferior in PD patients than the control group. Although PD patients tended to consume less AGEs than the control group, AGE intake was negatively correlated with handgrip strength in individuals with PD (r = -0.59; p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: PD patients had lower strength and functional capacity, suggesting that the effects of AGEs might be exacerbated during chronic diseases like Parkinson's.

Correlation of the sagittal balance with postural analysis of the pelvis and lumbar spine / Correlação do equilíbrio sagital e análise postural de pelve e coluna lombar

ABSTRACT Objective: Evaluate and correlate the sagittal balance parameters with the postural of the pelvis and lumbar spine. Methods: 80 individuals of both sexes, aged between 20 and 35 years, were evaluated. Biophotogrammetry was done with the SAPO software program. Measurements of the sagittal balance parameters were obtained by analyzing a lateral view panoramic radiography of the vertebral column, in which the anatomical points of reference were digitally marked. The calculation of the angles was done automatically by the Keops program. Results: In Keops assessment, 17.5% of the sample had high pelvic incidence angles (> 60°), 31.5% had low pelvic incidence angles (< 45°), and 51.2% had medium pelvic incidence angles (between 46° and 59°). SAPO showed 12,5% lordosis, 40% retroversion, and 47,5% normal curvature. In the right lateral view, pelvic incidence angle had a moderate and positive correlation with vertical alignment of the trunk and with vertical alignment of the body, and a negative and moderate correlation with horizontal alignment of the pelvis. Conclusion: Differences were found between vertical alignment measurements from the postural evaluation system (SAPO). A positive correlation was found between PI from Keops and pelvic anteversion from SAPO. Level of Evidence II; Prospective Study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar e correlacionar o equilíbrio sagital com parâmetros posturais da pelve e coluna lombar Métodos: Foram avaliados 80 indivíduos de ambos os sexos, com idade entre 20 e 35 anos. A biofotogrametria foi realizada com o software SAPO. As medidas dos parâmetros do equilíbrio sagital foram obtidas pela análise de uma radiografia panorâmica em perfil da coluna vertebral, na qual os pontos anatômicos de referência foram marcados digitalmente. O cálculo dos ângulos foi feito automaticamente pelo programa Keops. Resultados: Na avaliação Keops, 17,5% da amostra apresentavam ângulos de incidência pélvicos altos (> 60°), 31,5% tinham ângulos de incidência pélvicos baixos (< 45°) e 51,2% apresentavam ângulos de incidência pélvicos médios (entre 46° e 59°). O SAPO apresentou 12,5% de lordose, 40% de retroversão e 47,5% de curvatura normal. Na vista lateral direita, o ângulo de incidência da pelve apresentou correlação moderada e positiva com o alinhamento vertical do tronco e com o alinhamento vertical do corpo e negativa e moderada com o alinhamento horizontal da pelve. Conclusão: Foram encontradas diferenças entre as medidas de alinhamento vertical do sistema de avaliação postural (SAPO). Uma correlação positiva foi encontrada entre IP de Keops e anteversão pélvica de SAPO. Nível de Evidência II; Estudo Prospectivo.

Advanced glycation end products consumption and the decline of functional capacity in patients with Parkinson's disease: Cross-sectional study

Abstract Introduction Advanced Glycation End-Products (AGEs) are a diverse group of highly reactive molecules that play a vital role in the development of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's Disease (PD), leading to a decline in functional and cognitive capacity. The objective of this study was to assess the intake and quantification of AGEs in individuals with PD and to correlate them with their functional and cognitive abilities. Methods This was a cross-sectional study involving 20 PD patients and 20 non-PD individuals as the Control group (C). The autofluorescence reader was used to evaluate skin AGEs, while food recall was used to quantify AGEs consumed for three different days. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Short Physical Performance Battery, and handgrip tests were used. PD patients demonstrated greater impairment in functional capacity compared to the control group. Results Dominant Handgrip (p = 0.02) and motor performance, in the sit and stand test (p = 0.01) and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) (p = 0.01) were inferior in PD patients than the control group. Although PD patients tended to consume less AGEs than the control group, AGE intake was negatively correlated with handgrip strength in individuals with PD (r = -0.59; p < 0.05). Conclusion PD patients had lower strength and functional capacity, suggesting that the effects of AGEs might be exacerbated during chronic diseases like Parkinson's.

The Influence of Whey Protein on Muscle Strength, Glycemic Control and Functional Tasks in Older Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in a Resistance Exercise Program: Randomized and Triple Blind Clinical Trial.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of whey protein (WP) supplementation associated with resistance training (RT) on glycemic control, functional tasks, muscle strength, and body composition in older adults living with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Secondly, to evaluate the safety of the protocol for renal function. METHODS: The population comprised twenty-six older men living with T2DM (68.5 ± 11.5 years old). The participants were randomly assigned to the Protein Group (PG) and the Control Group (CG). The handgrip test and evolution of exercise loads, according to the Omni Resistance Exercise Scale, evaluated muscle strength. Functional tasks were assessed by force platform in three different protocols: Sit-to-Stand, Step/Quick Turn, and Step Up/Over. Body composition was evaluated by bioimpedance and glycemic control and renal function were assessed by biochemical analyses. Both groups performed RT for 12 weeks, twice a week, prioritizing large muscle groups. Protein supplementation was 20 g of whey protein isolate and the CG was supplemented with an isocaloric drink, containing 20 g of maltodextrin. RESULTS: There was a significant difference in muscle strength, according to the evolution of the exercise loads, but it was not confirmed in the handgrip test. However, there was no significant difference between the groups, regarding performance in functional tasks, glycemic control, or body composition. Renal function showed no alteration. CONCLUSION: The intake of 20 g of WP in older male adults living with T2DM did not increase the effect of RT on muscle strength, functional tasks, and glycemic control. The intervention was proven safe regarding renal function.

Effect of concurrent training in unilateral transtibial amputees using Paralympic athletes as a control group.

CONTEXT: Transtibial Amputation (TA) predisposes to a sedentary lifestyle. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the efficiency of a short-term (8-week) Concurrent Training (CT) program in Unilateral Transtibial Amputees (UTA) and to compare it with the physical condition of a group of Paralympic athletes in preparation for the Rio de Janeiro Paralympics. DESIGN: This was a longitudinal, prospective and controlled trial study. METHODS: Thirty-four male subjects with UTA and using prostheses for six months or more were selected for this study. They were divided into two groups: Group 1 (G1) ‒ 17 non-athlete and untrained UTA and Group 2 (G2) ‒ 17 paralympic athletes with active UTA in the training phase. G1 was evaluated before and after eight weeks of CT and G2 made a single evaluation for control. All were submitted to anamnesis, clinical evaluation (blood pressure, electrocardiogram, and heart rate) and cardiopulmonary exercise testing on a lower limb cycle ergometer, and isokinetic knee dynamometry. The CT of G1 included resistance exercise and aerobic interval training on a stationary bicycle and G2 followed the training of the Paralympic teams. RESULTS: Patients were retested by the same methods after CT. The two most important central dependent variables (maximal oxygen uptake and muscular strength) increased by 22% and knee extensor and flexor strength by 106% and 97%, respectively. CONCLUSION: After eight weeks of CT, there was an improvement in general functional condition, muscle strength, and cardiorespiratory performance improving protection against chronic diseases and quality of life.

Crash Risk Predictors in Older Drivers: A Cross-Sectional Study Based on a Driving Simulator and Machine Learning Algorithms.

The ability to drive depends on the motor, visual, and cognitive functions, which are necessary to integrate information and respond appropriately to different situations that occur in traffic. The study aimed to evaluate older drivers in a driving simulator and identify motor, cognitive and visual variables that interfere with safe driving through a cluster analysis, and identify the main predictors of traffic crashes. We analyzed the data of older drivers (n = 100, mean age of 72.5 ± 5.7 years) recruited in a hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. The assessments were divided into three domains: motor, visual, and cognitive. The K-Means algorithm was used to identify clusters of individuals with similar characteristics that may be associated with the risk of a traffic crash. The Random Forest algorithm was used to predict road crash in older drivers and identify the predictors (main risk factors) related to the outcome (number of crashes). The analysis identified two clusters, one with 59 participants and another with 41 drivers. There were no differences in the mean of crashes (1.7 vs. 1.8) and infractions (2.6 vs. 2.0) by cluster. However, the drivers allocated in Cluster 1, when compared to Cluster 2, had higher age, driving time, and braking time (p < 0.05). The random forest performed well (r = 0.98, R2 = 0.81) in predicting road crash. Advanced age and the functional reach test were the factors representing the highest risk of road crash. There were no differences in the number of crashes and infractions per cluster. However, the Random Forest model performed well in predicting the number of crashes.

Adaptation to the driving simulator and prediction of the braking time performance, with and without distraction, in older adults and middle-aged adults.

CONTEXT: Many studies show the importance of evaluating the adaptation time of subjects in a virtual driving environment, looking forwards to a response as closest as a possible real vehicle. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to identify and analyze the adaptation to the driving simulator in older adults and middle-aged adults with and without a distraction, and a secondary aim was to identify predictors of safe performance for older adults' drives. DESIGN: Male and female middle-aged adults (n = 62, age = 30.3 ± 7.1 years) and older adults (n = 102, age = 70.4 ± 5.8 years) were evaluated for braking time performance in a driving simulator; cognition performance assessment included the Mini-Mental State Examination; motor evaluation included ankle flexor muscle strength with the isokinetic dynamometer and handgrip strength; the postural balance was evaluated with Timed Up and Go test, with and without a cognitive distraction task. RESULTS: Older adults (men and women) and middle-aged adult women require more time to adapt to the driving simulator. The distractor increases the adaptation time for all groups. The main predictors of braking time for older women are age, muscle strength, and postural balance associated with distraction, and for older men, muscle strength. CONCLUSIONS: Age, sex, and distractor interfere in the adaptation of the virtual task of driving in a simulator. The evaluation model developed with multi-domains demonstrated the ability to predict which skills are related to braking time with and without the presence of the distractor.

The eight-week concurrent training effect on functional capacity in person living with unilateral transtibial amputation: A randomized controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: The main causes of amputation include vascular diseases, trauma, cancer, and congenital limb abnormalities. The person with transtibial amputation (TA) is affected by a greater cardiorespiratory, metabolic, and muscular load to walk and perform daily activities. The sedentary lifestyle contributes to the process of chronic non-communicable diseases. The purpose of the study was to compare the effects of eight-week concurrent training (CT) for dependent variables as muscle strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, agility, and postural balance in persons with unilateral TA. METHODS: A eight-week, randomized, controlled trial. Thirty-one people using prostheses for three or more months were selected. They were randomly divided into two groups: Experimental Group (EG; n = 17) - concurrent training and Control group (CG; n = 14) - no training. All patients were evaluated at the baseline and after eight weeks by the functional performance, isokinetic knee evaluation, static and dynamic posturography and cardiopulmonary test. RESULTS: The patients showed improvements in all measures after training (size effect >0.80). CONCLUSION: The main limitations are the sample size, related to the socioeconomic status and availability training and no comparison to other types of training. Eight weeks of CT was effective and favorably modified the dependent variables in TA patients. Therefore, CT is a good option to improve functional performance after the regular rehabilitation program discharge and decreases the metabolic and functional deficits of these patients.

Perception of health, quality of life and functional capacity in adults and elderly after hospitalization due to complications of COVID-19 - a longitudinal study with 6-month follow-up / Percepción de salud, calidad de vida y capacidad funcional en adultos y ancianos poshospitalización por complicaciones del COVID-19 - estudio longitudinal con seguimiento de seis meses / Percepção de saúde, qualidade de vida e capacidade funcional em adultos e idosos pós-internação hospitalar em função de complicações da COVID-19 - estudo longitudinal com follow-up de seis meses

ABSTRACT The study aims to evaluate the perception of health, quality of life and functional capacity during six months after COVID-19-related hospitalization. This is a prospective longitudinal study carried out at Universidade São Judas Tadeu (USJT) in partnership with the Instituto Ânima Brasil. Thirteen adult participants, including young and older adults, were evaluated, had a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 and were hospitalized. A characterization and interdisciplinary questionnaire built by the researchers was used to assess health perception, quality of life, and functional capacity of participants. In this study, participants were followed for a 6-month period and the main results obtained were: the identification of a significant increase in walking time after three months (p=0.002) as well as an improvement in the perception of quality of life (p=0.002). In addition, the levels of tiredness and physical activity were evaluated; the mean responses were "little tired" and "irregularly active," respectively, and remained unchanged over six months. Considering that patients who were hospitalized due to COVID-19 showed a reduction in the perception of quality of life and walking time soon after the hospital period, it was identified that over time they tend to improve these perceptions.

RESUMEN El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la percepción de salud, calidad de vida y capacidad funcional durante seis meses posteriores a la hospitalización por COVID-19. Se trata de un estudio prospectivo longitudinal, realizado en la Universidade São Judas Tadeu (USJT) y el Instituto Ânima Brasil. Se evaluaron a trece participantes, entre adultos jóvenes y adultos mayores, que tenían diagnóstico confirmado del COVID-19 y se encontraban hospitalizados por complicaciones de esa enfermedad. Se utilizó un cuestionario de caracterización e interdisciplinario elaborado por los investigadores para evaluar la percepción de salud, la calidad de vida y la capacidad funcional de los participantes. En este estudio se realizó seguimiento de los participantes durante un período de seis meses, y los principales resultados fueron: un significativo aumento en el tiempo de caminata después de tres meses (p=0,002), así como una mejora en la percepción de la calidad de vida (p=0,002). Además, se evaluaron los niveles de cansancio y de actividad física, y las respuestas medias fueron "poco cansado" e "irregularmente activo", las cuales se mantuvieron sin cambios durante seis meses. Considerando que los pacientes que fueron hospitalizados por COVID-19 presentaron una reducción en la percepción de calidad de vida y en el tiempo de marcha tras el período en el hospital, se identificó que con el tiempo tienden a mejorar estas percepciones.

RESUMO O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a percepção de saúde, a qualidade de vida e a capacidade funcional dos pacientes durante seis meses após a internação por COVID-19. Trata-se de um estudo de delineamento prospectivo longitudinal realizado na Universidade São Judas Tadeu (USJT) em parceria com o Instituto Ânima Brasil. Foram avaliados 13 participantes adultos, entre jovens e idosos, que apresentaram diagnóstico confirmado de COVID-19 e foram internados. Foi utilizado um questionário de caracterização e interdisciplinar construído especificamente para inquirir a percepção de saúde, a qualidade de vida e a capacidade funcional dos participantes. Neste estudo, eles foram acompanhados no período de seis meses, e os principais resultados obtidos foram: a identificação do aumento significativo no tempo de caminhada após três meses (p=0,002), bem como a melhora na percepção de qualidade de vida (p=0,002). Além disso, foram avaliados os níveis de cansaço e de prática de atividade física, e as respostas médias foram, respectivamente, "pouco cansaço" e "irregularmente ativo", as quais se mantiveram inalteradas ao longo de seis meses. Tendo em vista que os pacientes que foram submetidos à internação hospitalar devido à COVID-19 apresentaram redução da percepção de qualidade de vida e do tempo de caminhada logo após o período hospitalar, foi identificado que, com o decorrer do tempo, eles demonstraram tendência de melhora dessas percepções.

Quality of life and socio-demographic factors associated with nutritional risk in Brazilian community-dwelling individuals aged 80 and over: cluster analysis and ensemble methods.

Introduction: The aim of the present study was to use cluster analysis and ensemble methods to evaluate the association between quality of life, socio-demographic factors to predict nutritional risk in community-dwelling Brazilians aged 80 and over. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 104 individuals, both sexes, from different community locations. Firstly, the participants answered the sociodemographic questionnaire, and were sampled for anthropometric data. Subsequently, the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) was applied, and Mini Nutritional Assessment Questionnaire (MAN) was used to evaluate their nutritional status. Finally, quality of life (QoL) was assessed by a brief version of World Health Organizations' Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire and its older adults' version (WHOQOL-OLD). Results: The K-means algorithm was used to identify clusters of individuals regarding quality-of-life characteristics. In addition, Random Forest (RF) and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) algorithms were used to predict nutritional risk. Four major clusters were derived. Although there was a higher proportion of individuals aged 80 and over with nutritional risk in cluster 2 and a lower proportion in cluster 3, there was no statistically significant association. Cluster 1 showed the highest scores for psychological, social, and environmental domains, while cluster 4 exhibited the worst scores for the social and environmental domains of WHOQOL-BREF and for autonomy, past, present, and future activities, and intimacy of WHOQOL-OLD. Conclusion: Handgrip, household income, and MMSE were the most important predictors of nutritional. On the other hand, sex, self-reported health, and number of teeth showed the lowest levels of influence in the construction of models to evaluate nutritional risk. Taken together, there was no association between clusters based on quality-of-life domains and nutritional risk, however, predictive models can be used as a complementary tool to evaluate nutritional risk in individuals aged 80 and over.

Adaptation to the driving simulator and prediction of the braking time performance, with and without distraction, in older adults and middle-aged adults

Abstract Context: Many studies show the importance of evaluating the adaptation time of subjects in a virtual driving environment, looking forwards to a response as closest as a possible real vehicle. Objectives: This study aimed to identify and analyze the adaptation to the driving simulator in older adults and middle-aged adults with and without a distraction, and a secondary aim was to identify predictors of safe performance for older adults' drives. Design: Male and female middle-aged adults (n = 62, age = 30.3 ± 7.1 years) and older adults (n = 102, age = 70.4 ± 5.8 years) were evaluated for braking time performance in a driving simulator; cognition performance assessment included the Mini-Mental State Examination; motor evaluation included ankle flexor muscle strength with the isokinetic dynamometer and handgrip strength; the postural balance was evaluated with Timed Up and Go test, with and without a cognitive distraction task. Results: Older adults (men and women) and middle-aged adult women require more time to adapt to the driving simulator. The distractor increases the adaptation time for all groups. The main predictors of braking time for older women are age, muscle strength, and postural balance associated with distraction, and for older men, muscle strength. Conclusions: Age, sex, and distractor interfere in the adaptation of the virtual task of driving in a simulator. The evaluation model developed with multi-domains demonstrated the ability to predict which skills are related to braking time with and without the presence of the distractor.

Effect of concurrent training in unilateral transtibial amputees using Paralympic athletes as a control group

Abstract Context: Transtibial Amputation (TA) predisposes to a sedentary lifestyle. Objectives: To evaluate the efficiency of a short-term (8-week) Concurrent Training (CT) program in Unilateral Transtibial Amputees (UTA) and to compare it with the physical condition of a group of Paralympic athletes in preparation for the Rio de Janeiro Paralympics. Design: This was a longitudinal, prospective and controlled trial study. Methods: Thirty-four male subjects with UTA and using prostheses for six months or more were selected for this study. They were divided into two groups: Group 1 (G1) - 17 non-athlete and untrained UTA and Group 2 (G2) - 17 paralympic athletes with active UTA in the training phase. G1 was evaluated before and after eight weeks of CT and G2 made a single evaluation for control. All were submitted to anamnesis, clinical evaluation (blood pressure, electrocardiogram, and heart rate) and cardiopulmonary exercise testing on a lower limb cycle ergometer, and isokinetic knee dynamometry. The CT of G1 included resistance exercise and aerobic interval training on a stationary bicycle and G2 followed the training of the Paralympic teams. Results: Patients were retested by the same methods after CT. The two most important central dependent variables (maximal oxygen uptake and muscular strength) increased by 22% and knee extensor and flexor strength by 106% and 97%, respectively. Conclusion: After eight weeks of CT, there was an improvement in general functional condition, muscle strength, and cardiorespiratory performance improving protection against chronic diseases and quality of life.

The variability of isokinetic ankle strength is different in healthy older men and women.

CONTEXT: In the elderly, weak lower limb muscles impair functional tasks' performance. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the healthy elderly's ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion maximum torque and its variability in two sets of 5 RM isokinetics evaluation. METHOD: 50 women (68.0 ± 4.6 years old) and 50 men (72.7 ± 8.5 years old) did two sets of ankle plantar flexor and dorsiflexor isokinetic tests at 30°/s. Peak torque, total work, and coefficient of variation were analyzed. RESULTS: Men did the strongest plantarflexion torque (p < 0.05) and dorsiflexion torque (p < 0.05); their highest peak torque occurred at set 2 (p < 0.05), while the largest plantarflexion torque variability (p < 0.05), dorsiflexion torque variability (p < 0.05), and the largest plantarflexion torque variability occurred at set 1 (p < 0.05). Men did the highest plantarflexion and dorsiflexion total work (p < 0.05) at set 2 (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Older men are stronger than older women. The torque variability, in men, was higher during the first set, suggesting an adaptation to the isokinetics evaluation. Clinicians and researchers should consider that different muscles might need different numbers of sets and trials to measure their maximal muscle strength.

Is 12 months enough to reach function after athletes' ACL reconstruction: a prospective longitudinal study.

CONTEXT: Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury is disabling in several sports because it causes knee instability and functional deficit. Usually, surgical treatments produce the best functional outcomes, however, sometimes they are not always able to fully restore stability and function. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate postural balance, muscle strength, and functional performance of young athletes with an ACL injury before and after ACL reconstruction. DESIGN: This was a longitudinal observational prospective study. METHOD: 74 athletes, 60 men, and 14 women, aged between 16 and 45, divided into two groups: the Group-Lesion of ACL with 34 athletes (24.1 years) and the Group-Control with 40 athletes without ACL lesion (27.7 years old). All volunteers performed posturography, isokinetic dynamometry, and the Hop-Test. The ACL-Group was evaluated before and 12 months after the reconstruction and the control group was evaluated once. RESULTS: The Postoperative ACL Group presented greater limb symmetry, 0.96 (± 0.12), than the preoperative ACL Group, 0.87 (± 0.17), p < 0.01 in the Hop-Test. In the posturography, the displacement area was smaller in the postoperative ACL Group, 19.85 (± 5.74), compared to the preoperative ACL Group, 24.20 (± 8.97), p < 0.01. In isokinetic dynamometry the torque peak was greater in the postoperative ACL Group, 0.91 (± 0.14), than in the preoperative ACL Group, 0.74 (± 0.15), p < 0.01. CONCLUSION: The functional outcomes increased in ACL reconstruction athletes after 12 months, but not at the same level as in the Control Group. The result indicates an incomplete functional recovery, adaptive changes in postural control after injury, reconstruction, and return to sport.

Changes in postural balance associated with a woman's aging process.

CONTEXT: Aging causes a progressive worsening in postural balance, affecting functional independence and increasing the risk of falls. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of aging on the static balance in women from 50-years to 89-years of age. DESIGN: This was a cross-sectional study, with 400 irregularly active women were evaluated and grouped by age: Group 6th decade (age 50 to 59) ‒ 58 participants; Group 7th decade (age 60 to 69) ‒ 214 participants; Group 8th decade (age 70 to 79) ‒ 92 participants; Group 9th decade (age 80 to 89) ‒ 36 participants. Postural balance was evaluated using a portable force platform in a standard standing position, with Eyes Open (EO) and Eyes Closed (EC). RESULTS: In the two measurement conditions, the elderly women in Group 9th decade presented mediolateral displacement and range, and mean velocity greater than the women's values in Groups 6th and 7th decade. In the EO e EC situation, the displacement was higher in the elderly Group 9th decade compared to younger groups. Group 8th has a mean velocity greater than Group 6th decade in the EO situation. CONCLUSIONS: Posturography showed a decline in postural balance with advancing age, suggesting that the 9th decade of life is a borderline age to this detriment due to an increase in postural instability.

Influence of invertor and evertor muscle fatigue on functional jump tests and postural control: A prospective cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: Fatigue of the ankle's stabilizing muscles may influence the performance of functional activities and postural control. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance of healthy young adults using functional jump tests and static posturography control under pre- and post-fatigue conditions of the ankle invertor and evertor muscles. METHODS: Thirty physically active healthy male and female (15 male and 15 female) volunteers (24.3 years) were enrolled in this prospective cross-sectional study. Participants performed tests on one day under a non-fatigued state of invertor and evertor muscles and on the second day in a fatigued state. Tests included static posturography on a force platform in a bipedal stance with eyes open and closed and in one-legged support with eyes open and functional jump tests (figure-of-8, side hop, 6-m crossover hop, and square hop). Fatigue of the ankle invertor and evertor muscles was induced using isokinetic dynamometry with 30 repetitions at 120°/s. RESULTS: Participants had an average age of 24.3 years (SD ± 2.08), the height of 1.73 m (SD ± 0.08), and a weight of 68.63 kg (SD ± 10.29). The average Body Mass Index (BMI) was 22.88 (SD ± 2.46). A decrease in performance was observed in functional activities and postural control under all conditions after the induction of muscle fatigue, except for the speed at a bipedal stance with eyes open. CONCLUSIONS: Functional jump tests are low cost and useful for clinical practice and evaluation of the effects of muscle fatigue and could be used in clinical practice.

Is 12 months enough to reach function after athletes' ACL reconstruction: a prospective longitudinal study

Abstract Context: Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury is disabling in several sports because it causes knee instability and functional deficit. Usually, surgical treatments produce the best functional outcomes, however, sometimes they are not always able to fully restore stability and function. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate postural balance, muscle strength, and functional performance of young athletes with an ACL injury before and after ACL reconstruction. Design: This was a longitudinal observational prospective study. Method: 74 athletes, 60 men, and 14 women, aged between 16 and 45, divided into two groups: the Group-Lesion of ACL with 34 athletes (24.1 years) and the Group-Control with 40 athletes without ACL lesion (27.7 years old). All volunteers performed posturography, isokinetic dynamometry, and the Hop-Test. The ACL-Group was evaluated before and 12 months after the reconstruction and the control group was evaluated once. Results: The Postoperative ACL Group presented greater limb symmetry, 0.96 (± 0.12), than the preoperative ACL Group, 0.87 (± 0.17), p < 0.01 in the Hop-Test. In the posturography, the displacement area was smaller in the postoperative ACL Group, 19.85 (± 5.74), compared to the preoperative ACL Group, 24.20 (± 8.97), p < 0.01. In isokinetic dynamometry the torque peak was greater in the postoperative ACL Group, 0.91 (± 0.14), than in the preoperative ACL Group, 0.74 (± 0.15), p < 0.01. Conclusion: The functional outcomes increased in ACL reconstruction athletes after 12 months, but not at the same level as in the Control Group. The result indicates an incomplete functional recovery, adaptive changes in postural control after injury, reconstruction, and return to sport.

Influence of invertor and evertor muscle fatigue on functional jump tests and postural control: A prospective cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT Objective: Fatigue of the ankle's stabilizing muscles may influence the performance of functional activities and postural control. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance of healthy young adults using functional jump tests and static posturography control under pre- and post-fatigue conditions of the ankle invertor and evertor muscles. Methods: Thirty physically active healthy male and female (15 male and 15 female) volunteers (24.3 years) were enrolled in this prospective cross-sectional study. Participants performed tests on one day under a non-fatigued state of invertor and evertor muscles and on the second day in a fatigued state. Tests included static posturography on a force platform in a bipedal stance with eyes open and closed and in one-legged support with eyes open and functional jump tests (figure-of-8, side hop, 6-m crossover hop, and square hop). Fatigue of the ankle invertor and evertor muscles was induced using isokinetic dynamometry with 30 repetitions at 120°/s. Results: Participants had an average age of 24.3 years (SD ± 2.08), the height of 1.73 m (SD ± 0.08), and a weight of 68.63 kg (SD ± 10.29). The average Body Mass Index (BMI) was 22.88 (SD ± 2.46). A decrease in performance was observed in functional activities and postural control under all conditions after the induction of muscle fatigue, except for the speed at a bipedal stance with eyes open. Conclusions: Functional jump tests are low cost and useful for clinical practice and evaluation of the effects of muscle fatigue and could be used in clinical practice.

The variability of isokinetic ankle strength is different in healthy older men and women

Abstract Context In the elderly, weak lower limb muscles impair functional tasks' performance. Objective To evaluate the healthy elderly's ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion maximum torque and its variability in two sets of 5 RM isokinetics evaluation. Method 50 women (68.0 ± 4.6 years old) and 50 men (72.7 ± 8.5 years old) did two sets of ankle plantar flexor and dorsiflexor isokinetic tests at 30°/s. Peak torque, total work, and coefficient of variation were analyzed. Results Men did the strongest plantarflexion torque (p < 0.05) and dorsiflexion torque (p < 0.05); their highest peak torque occurred at set 2 (p < 0.05), while the largest plantarflexion torque variability (p < 0.05), dorsiflexion torque variability (p < 0.05), and the largest plantarflexion torque variability occurred at set 1 (p < 0.05). Men did the highest plantarflexion and dorsiflexion total work (p < 0.05) at set 2 (p < 0.05). Conclusion Older men are stronger than older women. The torque variability, in men, was higher during the first set, suggesting an adaptation to the isokinetics evaluation. Clinicians and researchers should consider that different muscles might need different numbers of sets and trials to measure their maximal muscle strength.