Joint knee loads during squat with constant or variable resistance in males. A clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: In the squat movement, the use of constant resistance (CR) generates greater compression and shear forces close to 90° of knee flexion, increasing joint overload. However, when used variable resistance (VR) there is no consensus about the effect of knee joint load. The aim of this study was to compare knee torques using constant or variable resistance during the squat exercise. METHODS: Twenty-one healthy male subjects (mean age, 24 [SD, 3] years; height, 1.76 [SD, 0.04] m), who practice squats during strength training routine. Were simultaneously record data from the platform force and tridimensional kinematic to obtain torques around knee. 15 repetitions were performed up to maximum knee flexion with the use of variable (RV) or constant (CR) resistance in a single session. RESULTS: Significant differences regarding the angles only in the sagittal plane at the end of the ascending phase of the squat, with less knee extension in the VR condition. In the sagittal and frontal planes, lower values of extensor and abductor torque were found in the VR condition at the angles of greater knee flexion. CONCLUSION: The use of variable resistance compared to constant resistance seems to be an alternative to be considered when the objective is to minimize the internal loads on the knee joint in exercises such as the squat in amplitudes of greater flexion. This study indicated that VR helps subjects who are learning the squat movement, enabling the application of this knowledge in physical therapy or physical training clinics.

Peabody Developmental Motor Scales - Second Edition (PDMS-2): Reliability, content and construct validity evidence for Brazilian children.

BACKGROUND: The Peabody Developmental Motor Scales - Second Edition (PDMS-2) has been used by health and educational professionals to assess the gross and fine motor skills of children with typical development, motor and/or cognitive delays, and disabilities. AIM: Investigate the validity and reliability of PDMS-2 for use in Brazil. METHODS: For content validity, 13 professionals participated in the study. For construct validity, a sample of 637 children from birth until 71 months (0-23 months: n = 399; 24-71 months: n = 238) was assessed with the PDMS-2. RESULTS: The PDMS-2 administered to the Brazilian population has psychometric characteristics equivalent to the original version. CONCLUSION: PDMS-2 is a valid and reliable tool for evaluating Brazilian children's motor development and providing appropriate support for clinical and educational intervention plans and follow-ups.

Postura corporal de jovens recrutados para o serviço militar obrigatório: estudo longitudina / Body posture of young recruited for mandatory military service: longitudinal study

O exercício físico juntamente com cuidados ergonômicos tem sido um dos fatores determinantes para uma boa postura. O treinamento físico militar resulta (TFM) em melhora na resistência cardiorrespiratória, na força muscular e diminuição de peso. No entanto, pouco tem sido investigado sobre o efeito do TFM na postura de recrutas. O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar as adaptações posturais de recrutados submetidos ao treinamento físico e a rotina do serviço militar obrigatório ao longo de um ano. Foram avaliados 61 jovens saudáveis do sexo masculino em janeiro, junho e setembro. Avaliações antropométricas, de fotogrametria e o Questionário Nórdico de Sintomas Osteomuscular ocorreram no início, meio e final do período do TFM. Foram analisados 21 pontos anatômicos nas visões anterior, posterior e lateral direita. Os resultados mostraram mudanças mais importantes na simetria postural dos recrutas na visão lateral direita. Conclui-se que o TFM tem importância substancial para produzir mudanças positivas na postura dos recrutas ao longo de um ano praticando exercícios físicos diários. (AU)

Physical exercises allied to ergonomic safe have been one of the main factors considered for good posture. Military Physical Training (TFM) results in an improvement of the cardiorespiratory resistance, muscular strength gains, and weight reduction. However, little has been investigated about the effect of TFM on the posture of recruits. The purpose of this study was to investigate the postural adaptations of young recruits undergoing physical training and the routine of mandatory military service over a year. Sixty-one healthy young men were assessed in January, June, and September. Anthropometry, photogrammetry and the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire were applied at the beginning and the end of the TFM period. Twenty-one anatomical points were analyzed according to the "Sapo protocol" in the anterior, posterior, and right body side views. The main results showed that changes in the postural symmetry of the recruits in the right lateral view were observed. The results show that TFM has substantial importance and positive changes in the body posture of the recruits over a year practicing daily physical exercises. (AU)

Parâmetros da pressão plantar, tipo e sensibilidade do pé em recrutas: um estudo prospectivo / Parámetros de la presión plantar, tipo y sensibilidad de pies de reclutas: un estudio prospectivo / Plantar pressure parameters, type and sensitivity of the foot in recruits: a prospective study

RESUMO Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar as características da pressão plantar, tipo e sensibilidade do pé em recrutas durante o período do serviço militar obrigatório. Sessenta indivíduos que prestaram o serviço militar obrigatório foram avaliados para pressão plantar (baropodômetro EPS LoranEngineering, Bolonha, Itália) e sensibilidade plantar ao toque superficial (estesiômetro de Semmes-Weinsten) em três momentos distintos: março (linha de base), junho (após 16 semanas de treinamento) e setembro (após 36 semanas de treinamento militar). Foram avaliadas a descarga de peso ântero-posterior e latero-lateral, pressão média, pressão máxima, área de contato do pé, tipologia de pé e sensibilidade plantar. Os dados foram analisados pelo teste do Qui-quadrado, anova de medidas repetidas e pelo teste de Friedman com pos hoc de Bonferroni (p<0,05). Houve aumento na área de contato (p=0,001) e na pressão média de ambos os pés (p<0,001). Quanto a tipologia, aproximadamente 60% dos indivíduos possuíam o pé direito do tipo normal, enquanto o pé esquerdo era do tipo cavo (50,3%); ou seja, mesmos sujeitos apresentaram diferentes tipologias do pé. Em relação a sensibilidade plantar, houve diferença na região do médio pé ao longo do treinamento (p=0,001 no pé dominante e p=0,009 no pé não dominante). Esses resultados demonstram que houve aumento da pressão média e área total de contato do pé, bem como alterações na sensibilidade plantar da região do médio pé ao longo do serviço militar obrigatório.

RESUMEN Este estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar las características de la presión plantar, el tipo de pie y la sensibilidad en los reclutas durante el período de servicio militar obligatorio. Sesenta individuos que realizaron el servicio militar obligatorio fueron evaluados para presión plantar (baropodómetro EPS LoranEngineering, Bolonia, Italia) y sensibilidad plantar al tacto superficial (estesiómetro Semmes-Weinsten) en tres momentos diferentes: marzo (línea base), junio (después de 16 semanas de entrenamiento) y septiembre (después de 36 semanas de entrenamiento militar). Se evaluaron descarga de peso anteroposterior y laterolateral, presión media, presión máxima, área de contacto del pie, tipología del pie y sensibilidad plantar. Los datos se analizaron mediante el test de chi-cuadrado, el ANOVA de medidas repetidas y el test de Friedman con Bonferroni pos hoc (p <0,05). Hubo un aumento en el área de contacto (p=0,001) y en la presión media de ambos pies (p <0,001). En cuanto a la tipología, aproximadamente el 60% de los individuos tenían el pie dominante de tipo normal, mientras que el pie no dominante era de tipo cavo (50,3%); es decir, los mismos sujetos presentaron diferentes tipologías del pie. En cuanto a la sensibilidad plantar, hubo una diferencia en la región del mediopié durante el entrenamiento (p=0,001 en el pie dominante y p=0,009 en el pie no dominante). Estos resultados demuestran que hubo un aumento en la presión media y el área total de contacto del pie, así como cambios en la sensibilidad plantar en la región del mediopié durante el servicio militar obligatorio.

ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the characteristics of plantar pressure, type of foot and plantar sensitivity of recruits during the period of compulsory military service. Sixty individuals who performed compulsory military service were assessed for plantar pressure (EPS LoranEngineering baropodometer, Bologna, Italy) and plantar sensitivity to superficial touch (esthesiometer - Semmes-Weinsten Monofilaments) at three different times: March (baseline), June (after 16 weeks of training) and September (after 36 weeks of military training). Antero-posterior and latero-lateral weight bearing, mean pressure, maximum pressure, foot contact area, foot typology were evaluated. and plantar sensitivity. The data were analyzed using the chi-squared test, Anova repeated measures and Friedman test with Bonferroni pos hoc (p<0,05). There was an increase in contact area (p=0,001) and mean pressure of both feet (p<0,001). As for the typology, an average of 60% of the individuals have the dominant foot of the normal type, while the non-dominant foot are cavus (50.3%), that is, the same subjects presented different typologies of the foot. Regarding plantar sensitivity, there was a difference in the midfoot region over training time (p=0.001 in the dominant foot and p=0.009 in the non-dominant foot). These results demonstrated that there was an increase in average pressure and total foot contact area, and also plantar sensitivity alterations throughout the mandatory military period.

O impacto da prática do futsal para a competência motora de crianças / The impact of futsal practice for child motor competence / El impacto de la práctica de fútbol sala en las habilidades motoras de los niños

A competência motora é um importante componente para o desenvolvimento infantil e está relacionada à performance nos mais variados esportes. Esse estudo examinou a relação entre a prática do futsal e a competência motora de meninos dos 6 aos 10 anos. Participaram 99 crianças com idade média de 8,15±1,18 anos, as quais foram divididas em dois grupos (praticantes de futsal vs. não praticantes). Para a avaliação da competência motora foi utilizado o Motor Competence Assessment (MCA). Os resultados indicam que os praticantes de futsal apresentam médias melhores em cinco dos seis testes do MCA (salto em comprimento, saltos laterais, lançamento e chute da bola, e shuttle run) do que às crianças que apenas participam das aulas de educação física. Em relação às categorias e à Competência Motora total, os resultados mostram que os praticantes de futsal obtiveram melhores resultados no que tange aos escores de estabilização (t= -3,936; p=0.000), locomoção (t= -3,803; p=0.000), manipulação (t= -4,124; p=0.000) e competência motora total (t= -4,529, p=0,000). Assim, esse estudo mostra que as crianças inseridas na prática de futsal possuem maiores níveis de competência nos testes de locomoção, de estabilização e de manipulação de objetos, bem como na competência motora total.

Motor competence is an important component of child development related to the performance of various sports. This study examined the relationship between futsal practice and motor skills in 6-to 10-year old boys. Ninety-nine Brazilian children with a mean age of 8.15 ± 1.18 years participated. The children were divided into two groups (futsal vs. non-practitioners). Motor Competence Assessment (MCA) was used to measure motor competence. The results indicate that futsal practitioners have better mean in five of six MCA tests (stand long jump, side jumps, ball throwing and kicking, and shuttle run) than children who only attend physical education classes. Regarding the categories and the total Motor Competence, the results show that futsal practitioners obtained better results regarding the stabilization scores (t = -3.936; p = 0.000), locomotion (t = -3.803; p = 0.000) , manipulation (t = -4,124; p = 0.000) and total motor competence (t = -4.529, p = 0.000). Thus, this study shows that children involved in futsal practice have higher levels of competence in locomotion, stabilization, and object manipulation tests, as well as in total motor competence

La competencia motora es un componente importante para el desarrollo infantil y está presente en desempeño de los deportes más variados. Este estudio examinó la relación entre la práctica del fútbol sala y las habilidades motoras entre niños de 6 a 10 años. Participaron 99 niños brasileños con una edad promedio de 8.15 ± 1.18 años. Los niños se dividieron en dos grupos (jugadores de fútbol sala versus no practicantes). La evaluación de la competencia motora (ACM) se utilizó para evaluar la competencia motora. Los resultados indican que los practicantes de fútbol sala tienen mejores medias en cinco de las seis pruebas de MCA (salto largo, saltos laterales, patada y patada con pelota, y carrera de lanzadera) que los niños que solo participan en clases de educación fisica. Con respecto a las categorías y la competencia motora total, los resultados muestran que los practicantes de fútbol sala obtuvieron mejores resultados con respecto a los puntajes de estabilización (t = -3.936; p = 0.000), locomoción (t = -3.803; p = 0.000), manipulación (t = -4,124; p = 0,000) y competencia motora total (t = -4,529, p = 0,000). Los resultados muestran que los practicantes de fútbol sala obtuvieron mejores resultados (t = -4.529, p = 0.000). Este estudio muestra que los niños insertados en la práctica de fútbol sala tienen niveles más altos de competencia en pruebas de locomoción, estabilización y manipulación de objetos, así como en la competencia motora total.

Hippotherapy on postural balance in the sitting position of children with cerebral palsy - Longitudinal study.

Purpose: To verify the effects of 12, 24, 36 hippotherapy sessions over time on postural balance while sitting in children with cerebral palsy as well the effects of treatment after one interruption period of 45 days. Methods: Hippotherapy program with a twice-weekly treatment with a total of 13 children aged 5-10 years old. Measurements of postural balance during sitting were performed using the AMTI AccuSway Plus platform. Results: There was a statistically significant reduction in mediolateral and anteroposterior sway after the first 12 hippotherapy sessions, and further significant sway reduction occurred as the treatment progressed. Changes in the center of pressure displacement velocity variable began to occur after 24 sessions. Conclusion: Seated postural balance improved in children with cerebral palsy, as evidenced by lower COP displacement, particularly after a greater number of sessions. After the last evaluations, when completing 36 sessions of hippotherapy, it was verified that the improvements to the postural balance continued to occur. Therefore, further studies with a longer treatment period may help to clarify if, at some point, there is stabilization in the improvement of postural balance. Furthermore, it is important to analyze the impact of hippotherapy on functional activities over time.

Do the type of walking surface and the horse speed during hippotherapy modify the dynamics of sitting postural control in children with cerebral palsy?

BACKGROUND: Hippotherapy is described as a rehabilitation method for postural control in children with cerebral palsy. Horse's movements can be manipulated during hippotherapy's sessions with horse walking on different surfaces and at different speeds. The purpose of this study was to assess if dynamic sitting postural control in children with cerebral palsy in hippotherapy is modified when surfaces (sand or asphalt) and horse's walking speed (slow or faster) are changed. METHODS: Sixteen children participated in this crossover study. Eight bilateral spastic cerebral palsy children, age range (6-12 years), with Gross Motor Function Classification System levels III to IV, practicing hippotherapy and eight children with typical development (reference group), matched for age and sex. All children were evaluated during riding a horse on sand and asphalt surfaces and at slow (self-selected) and faster (30%) horse's walking speed. Center of pressure parameters were determined by a portable pressure measurement system positioned on the saddle. FINDINGS: Mediolateral displacement amplitude of the center of pressure was larger when the horse was on sand. Mediolateral and anteroposterior displacements amplitude and velocities of the center of pressure increased at horse's faster walking speed. INTERPRETATION: Our study test empirical procedures used in clinical practice and with a population widely reached by hippotherapy. In order to increase the demand for sitting postural control in children with cerebral palsy during horse riding, faster horse speed or riding on sand should be used.

Affordances for Motor Skill Development in Home, School, and Sport Environments: A Narrative Review.

Through development, a child's varied movement contexts provide different opportunities or affordances for action that are fundamental to promoting motor competence. Although home is the primary environment for infants, as children age, school and sport environments gain importance. Studies focusing on affordances for motor behavior in children have mainly addressed the home microsystem, providing an incomplete picture of affordances across different settings, particularly later in development. Here, we undertook a narrative literature review of various affordances for children's motor development. This review revealed that prior studies of school and sports contexts have not specifically focused on those environmental properties that promote or hinder motor learning opportunities, meaning that future research should assess these relationships through manipulations of environmental features in these different microsystems.

Efeito da equoterapia no equilíbrio de idosos: uma revisão sistemática com metanálise / Effect of hippotherapy on older balance: a systematic review with methanalysis

A prática regular de exercícios físicos de diferentes naturezas tem sido amplamente recomendada para a população idosa, em virtude dos inúmeros benefícios relacionados à capacidade funcional e cognitiva nesta etapa da vida, aumentando a longevidade com independência funcional. Os efeitos da equoterapia na melhora do equilíbrio postural estão sendo cada vez mais estudados nas diversas populações, contudo, os estudos sobre esses efeitos em idosos são recentes. Dada a importância de melhorar a prática baseada em evidências, surgiu o interesse em realizar uma síntese rigorosa de todas as consultas relacionadas com o efeito da equoterapia no equilíbrio de idosos. Esta revisão seguiu as recomendações do Preferred reporting items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-análise (PRISMA) e registrado em um banco de dados internacional de revisões sistemáticas (PROSPERO). Foram selecionados artigos de bases de dados BIREME, SCIELO, MEDLINE CINAHAL, EBSCHOST e ISI, publicados em português e inglês. As palavras-chaves utilizadas foram: "equoterapia" OR "terapia assistida por animais" AND "equilíbrio postural" AND "idoso", presentes no título ou nos resumos dos artigos. Os artigos foram avaliados com base em seu nível de evidência e conduta. Utilizou-se a escala PEDro, para avaliação metodológica dos artigos incluídos na revisão. Identificou-se 20 estudos; 4 preencheram os critérios de inclusão. Estudos sobre os efeitos de equoterapia em idosos apresentam uma homogeneidade (I2 = 0 %) e uma melhora significativa (p = 0,001) equilíbrio. Embora os estudos apontem que a equoterapia seja benéfica para a melhora do equilíbrio postural, somente 4 estudos foram analisados, havendo necessidade de mais pesquisas que relacionem essas variáveis na população idosa....(AU)

The regular practice of physical exercises of diff erent natures has been widely recommended for the elderly population, due to the innumerable benefi ts related to functional and cognitive capacity in this stage of life, increasing the longevity with functional independence.The eff ects hippotherapy on the improvement of postural balance are being increasingly studied in diff erent populations, however, studies on these eff ects in the elderly are recent. Given the importance of improving evidence-based practice, the interest in performing a rigorous synthesis of all queries related to the eff ect of hippotherapy on balance postural. This review followed the reporting items Preferred recommendations for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) And registered in an international database of systematic reviews (PROSPERO). Were selected articles from databases BIREME, SCIELO, MEDLINE CINAHAL, EBSCHOST e ISI, published Portuguese and English. The key words used were: hippotherapy, therapeutic riding, postural balance and elderly, present in the title or summary of articles. Were used the PEDro scale for methodological evaluation of the articles included in the review. It identifi ed 20 studies; 4 met the inclusion criteria. Studies on the eff ects of hippotherapy in older adults homogeneity (I2 = 0 %) and a signifi cant improvement (p = 0.001) in the functional capacity of the elderly. Although the studies indicate that hippotherapy is benefi cial for the improvement of postural balance, only 4 studies were analyzed, and there is a need for research that relates these variables to the elderly population....(AU)

Mother's Perception of Children's Motor Development in Southern Brazil.

Parents' perceptions of children's motor competence are important because they influence the way parents interact with their children to promote motor skills development. Thirty-six mothers of 16- to 66-month old children (61%, 22 boys and 39%, 14 girls, n = 36) estimated their child's performance while the child was being evaluated, by another trained researcher, with the same scale (Peabody Developmental Motor Scale 2nd Ed.) in a different room. Underestimations, accurate estimations, overestimations, and parental accuracy were investigated. Mothers overestimated significantly their child's stationary and locomotion skills and their GMQ and Total Motor Quotients (TMQ). Identical levels of motor performance were found in girls and boys, and estimation accuracy was similar for both genders. We discuss our results in the context of the parents' routines (little time interacting with children actively) and the relevance of their perceptions of the children's abilities as a further influence on the children's development and engagement in physical activities.

DNA damage and postural balance in multiple sclerosis patients / Dano ao DNA e equilíbrio postural de portadores de Esclerose Múltipla

Abstract Introduction: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by infiltration of inflammatory cells on the Central Nervous System (CNS). There is evidence that cumulative DNA damage can contribute to various mechanisms underlying MS lesions. Changes in postural balance are frequent observations in subjects with MS. Objective: Evaluated the DNA damage index (DDI)) and postural balance in patients with MS. Methods: A case-control study was conducted with 28 subjects matched for sex, age, and body mass index, divided into MS group and control. The DDI was assessed by comet assay and postural balance through recording the body oscillations of the center of pressure (COP), in the anterior-posterior and lateral middle directions. Results: Showed higher DDI in MS patients (21.3 ± 4.8) than controls (7.9 ± 6.1). Significant differences between groups were also noted in postural control parameters. The wider ranges of postural sway were observed in the MS group. The associations between DDI and postural control parameters showed weak, but significant correlations. No associations were found between DDI and time of diagnosis of MS. Conclusion: People with MS had higher DDI and larger body oscillations than healthy individuals.

Resumo Introdução: A Esclerose Múltipla (EM) é uma doença inflamatório crônica caracterizada pela infiltração de células inflamatórias no Sistema Nervoso Central (SNC). Há evidencias de que danos cumulativos ao DNA possam contribuir para vários mecanismos subjacentes às lesões da EM. As alterações no equilíbrio postural são observações frequentes nos sujeitos com EM. Objetivo: Este estudo avaliou os índices de dano ao DNA (ID) e equilíbrio postural em portadores de Esclerose Múltipla (EM). Métodos: Um estudo de caso-controle foi conduzido com 28 sujeitos pareados por sexo, idade e índice de massa corporal, divididos em grupo EM e controle. O ID foi avaliado pelo ensaio cometa e o equilibro postural através do registro das oscilações corporais relativas ao deslocamento centro de pressão (COP) nas direções antero posterior e médio lateral. Resultados: Maiores ID em portadores de EM (21,3 ± 4,8) do que controles (7,9 ± 6,1). Diferenças significativas entre os grupos também foram percebidas nos parâmetros do controle postural. As maiores amplitudes de oscilação foram observadas no grupo EM para ambas as direções. As associações entre o ID e parâmetros do controle postural apresentaram correlações fracas e significativas. Não foram encontradas associações entre ID e tempo de diagnóstico de EM. Conclusão: Portadores de EM apresentaram maior ID e maiores oscilações corporais do que controles saudáveis.

The effects of hippotherapy on postural balance and functional ability in children with cerebral palsy.

UNLABELLED: [Purpose] This study evaluated the effects of hippotherapy on seated postural balance, dynamic balance, and functional performance in children with cerebral palsy and compared the effects of 12 and 24 sessions on seated postural balance. [Subjects and Methods] This study included 15 children with cerebral palsy aged between 5 and 10 years. INTERVENTIONS: A hippotherapy protocol was performed for 30 minutes, twice a week, for 12 weeks. Postural balance in a sitting position was measured using an AMTI AccuSway Plus force platform 1 week before initiating the hippotherapy program and after 12 and 24 weeks. The Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI) were used before and after 24 sessions. [Results] Significant differences were observed for center of pressure (COP) variables, including medio-lateral (COPml), anteroposterior displacement (COPap), and velocity of displacement (VelCOP), particularly after 24 sessions. There were also significant differences in BBS scores and PEDI score increases associated with functional skills (self-care, social function, and mobility), caregiver assistance (self-care), social function, and mobility. [Conclusion] Hippotherapy resulted in improvement in postural balance in the sitting position, dynamic balance, and functionality in children with cerebral palsy, an effect particularly significant after 24 hippotherapy sessions.

Perfil de aptidão física relacionada à saúde em adolescentes / Physical capacit y related to health in adolescents

Objetivou-se investigar o perfil de aptidão física relacionada à saúde de adolescentes de Florianópolis (SC). Participaram 108 adolescentes com 11,31 ± 0,54 anos, de ambos os sexos, de uma escola pública de Florianópolis (SC). Foram avaliadas a função cardiorrespiratória, força/resistência abdominal, flexibilidade e Índice de Massa Corporal (IMC). Os dados foram analisados pelo Teste Qui-quadrado (X2) ou Exato de Fisher (p < 0,05). A maioria dos adolescentes (75,7%) obteve classificação saudável na flexibilidade, com associação para o sexo feminino (p = 0,043), enquanto que na força/resistência abdominal 67,9% foram classificados na zona de risco, com tendência para meninos (p = 0,004). Na função cardiorrespiratória todos os adolescentes foram classificados na zona de risco e para o IMC a maioria foi considerada saudável. Os adolescentes de Florianópolis (SC) mostraram-se aptos nas avaliações de IMC e flexibilidade, com uma tendência de risco para meninos na flexibilidade. Para resistência abdominal e cardiorrespiratória o perfil dos adolescentes foi de risco, independente do sexo.

Physical aptitude related to adolescents´ health in Florianópolis SC Brazil is investigated. One hundred and eight adolescents, aged 11.31 ± 0.54 years, males and females, from a public school in Florianópolis SC Brazil, participated by evaluating their cardio-respiratory function, abdominal strength/resistance, flexibility and Body Mass Index (BMI). Data were analyzed by χ2 test or Fisher exact test (p<0.05). Most adolescents (75.7%) had a good classification for flexibility, associated to females (p=0.043), whereas 67.9% were classified within the risk zone in the abdominal strength/resistance, with a trend for males (p=0.004). In the case of the cardio-respiratory function, all adolescents were classified within the risk zone whereas most were healthy for MBI. Adolescents evaluated were apt for MBI and flexibility evaluation with a risk trend for males in flexibility. Adolescents´ profile for abdominal and cardio-respiratory resistance was within a risk range, regardless of gender.

Parameters of the center of pressure displacement on the saddle during hippotherapy on different surfaces.

BACKGROUND: Hippotherapy uses horseback riding movements for therapeutic purposes. In addition to the horse's movement, the choice of equipment and types of floor are also useful in the intervention. The quantification of dynamic parameters that define the interaction of the surface of contact between horse and rider provides insight into how the type of floor surface variations act upon the subject's postural control. OBJECTIVE: To test whether different types of surfaces promote changes in the amplitude (ACOP) and velocity (VCOP) of the center of pressure (COP) displacement during the rider's contact with the saddle on the horse's back. METHOD: Twenty two healthy adult male subjects with experience in riding were evaluated. The penetration resistances of asphalt, sand and grass surfaces were measured. The COP data were collected on the three surfaces using a pressure measurement mat. RESULTS: ACOP values were higher in sand, followed by grass and asphalt, with significant differences between sand and asphalt (anteroposterior, p=0.042; mediolateral, p=0.019). The ACOP and VCOP values were higher in the anteroposterior than in the mediolateral direction on all surfaces (ACOP, p=0.001; VCOP, p=0.006). The VCOP did not differ between the surfaces. CONCLUSION: Postural control, measured by the COP displacement, undergoes variations in its amplitude as a result of the type of floor surface. Therefore, these results reinforce the importance of the choice of floor surface when defining the strategy to be used during hippotherapy intervention.

Análise das oportunidades de estimulação motora em ambientes domiciliares na região central do Rio Grande do Sul / Analysis of the opportunities of motor stimulation in home environment in the central region of Rio Grande do Sul

Este estudo objetivou analisar a qualidade dos ambientes domiciliares na região central do Rio Grande do Sul para a ocorrência de oportunidades de estimulação motora. Fizeram parte do estudo 410 famílias de crianças com idades entre 18 e 42 meses. Para a avaliação foi utilizado o questionário "Affordances in the Home Enviroment for Motor Development Self-Report" - (AHEMD-SR) que aborda a qualidade e a quantidade de fatores no ambiente que são favoráveis à intensificação do desenvolvimento motor infantil. Foram utilizadas análises descritivas e os testes t para amostras independentes e ANOVA para comparação das médias. A análise dos dados evidenciou que as famílias com menor renda (p = 0,00) e cujos pais têm menor grau de instrução (p = 0,00) possuem lares que promovem menos oportunidades de estimulação motora às crianças. Os resultados menos satisfatórios foram em relação à provisão de materiais que estimulem o desenvolvimento da motricidade infantil no espaço externo das residências (entre 64,4% e 65,1% classificados como muito fraco). Conclui-se que, em grande parte das residências avaliadas, há uma carência na provisão de materiais que promovam a estimulação do desenvolvimento da motricidade infantil. O estudo dá fortes indícios que estas restrições podem ser decorrentes do baixo nível socioeconômico e grau de escolaridade das famílias pesquisadas

This study aimed to analyze the quality of home environments in the central region of Rio Grande do Sul to the occurrence of motor stimulation opportunities. Participants were 410 children aged between 18 and 42 months. For the assessment of home environments we used the Affordances in the Home Environment for Motor Development Self-Report - (AHEMD-SR). This instrument addresses the quality and quantity of factors of home environment that can enhance children's motor development. Descriptive analysis, t tests for independent samples and ANOVA were used to compare means. Data analysis showed that households with lower wages (p = 0.00) and whose parents have lower education (p = 0.00), have home environments that provide fewer opportunities for motor stimulation to children. The results were less satisfactory in relation to the provision of materials that encourage and stimulate children's motor development, on the external space of the residences (between 64,4% and 65,1% is classified as a very poor). It is concluded that there is a shortage in supply of materials that promote the stimulation of motor development in children, in most residences evaluated. The study provides strong evidence that these restrictions result from low socioeconomic and educational level of the families surveyed

Parameters of the center of pressure displacement on the saddle during hippotherapy on different surfaces

Background: Hippotherapy uses horseback riding movements for therapeutic purposes. In addition to the horse's movement, the choice of equipment and types of floor are also useful in the intervention. The quantification of dynamic parameters that define the interaction of the surface of contact between horse and rider provides insight into how the type of floor surface variations act upon the subject's postural control. Objective: To test whether different types of surfaces promote changes in the amplitude (ACOP) and velocity (VCOP) of the center of pressure (COP) displacement during the rider's contact with the saddle on the horse's back. Method: Twenty two healthy adult male subjects with experience in riding were evaluated. The penetration resistances of asphalt, sand and grass surfaces were measured. The COP data were collected on the three surfaces using a pressure measurement mat. Results: ACOP values were higher in sand, followed by grass and asphalt, with significant differences between sand and asphalt (anteroposterior, p=0.042; mediolateral, p=0.019). The ACOP and VCOP values were higher in the anteroposterior than in the mediolateral direction on all surfaces (ACOP, p=0.001; VCOP, p=0.006). The VCOP did not differ between the surfaces. Conclusion: Postural control, measured by the COP displacement, undergoes variations in its amplitude as a result of the type of floor surface. Therefore, these results reinforce the importance of the choice of floor surface when defining the strategy to be used during hippotherapy intervention. .

Características miofuncionais e eletromiográficas de crianças e adolescentes obesos / Myofunctional characteristics and electromyographic of obese children and adolescents

OBJETIVO: investigar as características miofuncionais e eletromiográficas de obesos em relação ao sexo e faixa de idade. MÉTODO: amostra de conveniência de 28 crianças e adolescentes obesos, de ambos os sexos, participantes do grupo de Obesidade do Ambulatório de Pediatria do Hospital Universitário do Hospital Universitário de Santa Maria, no período de janeiro a julho de 2011. As características Miofuncionais foram realizadas por fonoaudióloga experiente por meio do Protocolo de Avaliação Miofuncional com Escores (AMIOFE). A avaliação eletromiografica dos músculos masseter e temporal foi obtida utilizando o Eletromiógrafo Lynx e realizada três coletas para cada uma das situações (repouso, mastigação, deglutição e máxima intercuspidação). Os dados eletromiográficos foram normalizados, expressos em percentual, utilizando-se a média da máxima intercuspidação de cada músculo estudado nas avaliações realizadas. RESULTADOS: a maioria dos obesos desta pesquisa apresentaram características miofuncionais dentro da normalidade, não sendo observada diferença estatística significante quando comparados por sexo e idade. Embora a média normalizada da atividade elétrica dos músculos masseter e temporais durante o repouso, mastigação e deglutição dos obesos de acordo com sexo e idade não apresentaram diferença estatística significante, observa-se uma maior ativação dos músculos masseter do que os músculos temporais. CONCLUSÕES: pode-se concluir que crianças e adolescentes obesos, de ambos os sexo têm características miofuncionais dentro da normalidade e que há uma maior ativação dos músculos masseteres para a função da mastigação e deglutição do que os músculos temporais.

PURPOSE: to investigate the myofunctional and electromyographic characteristics of obese patients in relation to sex and age group. METHOD: a convenience sample of 28 obese children and adolescents of both sexes, participants in the group of the Obesity Clinic of Pediatrics, University Hospital of Santa Maria, in the period of January to July 2011. The myofunctional characteristics were performed by experienced speech pathologist through the Assessment Protocol Myofunctional with scores (AMIOFE). Electromyographic evaluation of masseter and temporal muscles was obtained using the Lynx Electromyograph and were held three collections for each of the situations (rest, chewing, swallowing and maximum intercuspation). The EMG data were normalized, expressed as a percentage, using the mean of maximal intercuspation of each muscle studied in the assessments. RESULTS: most of the obese in this research presented myofunctional characteristics within the normal range, not being statistically significant difference when compared by sex and age. Although the average standard of the electrical activity of masseter and temporal muscles during rest, chewing and swallowing obese according to sex and age showed no statistically significant difference, there is an increased activation of the masseter muscles than the temporal. CONCLUSIONS: it can be concluded that obese children and adolescents of both sexes have myofunctional characteristics within normal limits and there is an increased activation of the masseter muscles for chewing and swallowing of the temporal muscles.

Efeito da equoterapia na estabilidade postural de portadores de esclerose múltipla: estudo preliminar / Effect of hippotherapy on the postural stability of patients with multiple sclerosis: a preliminary study / Efecto de la hipoterapia en la estabilidad postural de portadores de esclerosis múltiple: estudio preliminar

OBJETIVO: Este estudo se propôs a verificar se a estimulação por meio da equoterapia é capaz de desencadear alterações no controle postural de portadores de esclerose múltipla (EM). MÉTODO: Fizeram parte deste estudo 11 portadores de EM divididos em Grupo Intervenção (GI) e Grupo Controle (GC). O GI foi inserido num programa de hipoterapia durante 4 meses, sendo conduzidas 2 sessões semanais com duração de 50 minutos cada. A estabilidade postural foi avaliada utilizando uma plataforma de força (para calcular o deslocamento do centro de pressão (COP), durante 30 segundos, em postura ereta quasi-estática, com olhos abertos e fechados, antes e após o treinamento com equoterapia. O tratamento estatístico foi feito através do ANOVA e Post hoc de Tukey com p<0,05. RESULTADOS: A amplitude de oscilação anteroposterior reduziu significativamente no GI após a estimulação, enquanto o GC manteve um comportamento inalterado entre as avaliações. Em ambos os grupos, a estabilidade postural foi reduzida com a supressão da informação visual. CONCLUSÕES: A adaptação funcional proporcionada pela equoterapia foi capaz de melhorar a estabilidade postural dos portadores de EM. Os resultados corroboram a literatura que suporta o uso da equoterapia como uma intervenção em potencial nas desordens de controle postural em portadores de EM.

OBJECTIVE: This study intended to identify the effects of hippotherapy on the postural control of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. METHODS: Eleven MS patients were separated into two groups: Intervention Group (IG) and Control Group (CG). Hippotherapy consisted of two 50-minute sessions each week for four months. Postural stability was evaluated before and after hippotherapy using a force plate to calculate the center of pressure (COP), when subjects stood still for 30 seconds, with eyes open and closed. Statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA and post hoc Tukey tests, p<0.05. RESULTS: Hippotherapy significantly reduced the amplitude of oscillation in the anteroposterior direction in IG while CG remained unaltered. In both groups postural stability was reduced after the suppression of visual information. CONCLUSIONS: Hippotherapy induced functional adaptations that resulted in better postural stability of subjects with MS. This study corroborates literature supporting the use of hippotherapy as a possible intervention for balance disorders in patients with MS.

OBJETIVO: El objetivo de éste estudio fue identificar los efectos de la hipoterapia sobre el control postural en pacientes con esclerosis múltiple (EM). MÉTODO: Hicieron parte de este estudio 11 portadores de EM divididos en Grupo Intervención (GI) y Grupo Control (GC). El GI fue insertado en un programa de hipoterapia durante cuatro meses, siendo realizadas dos sesiones semanales con duración de 50 minutos cada una. La estabilidad postural fue evaluada utilizando una plataforma de fuerza (para calcular el desplazamiento del centro de presión (COP), durante 30 segundos en postura erecta casi-estática, con ojos abiertos y cerrados, antes y después del entrenamiento con hipoterapia. El tratamiento estadístico fue realizado a través de ANOVA y Post hoc de Tukey con p<0,05. RESULTADOS: la amplitud de oscilación antero-posterior se redujo significativamente en el GI después de la estimulación, mientras que el GC mantuvo un comportamiento sin cambios entre las evaluaciones. En ambos grupos la estabilidad postural fue reducida con la supresión de la información visual. CONCLUSIONES: la adaptación funcional proporcionada por la hipoterapia fue capaz de mejorar la estabilidad postural de los portadores de EM. Los resultados corroboran la literatura que soporta el uso de la hipoterapia como una potencial intervención en los desordenes del control postural en portadores de EM.