Isokinetic Shoulder Strength and its Associations to Injury in Tactical Populations: A Critical Review.

The aim of this review is to evaluate existing isokinetic testing protocols for the shoulder in tactical occupations, document their shoulder strength profiles, and determine any associations to shoulder injury. Four electronic databases were searched (Medline/Pubmed, Ovid/Emcare, CINAHL/Ebsco and Embase) using the keywords police OR law enforcement, firefighter, military, AND isokinetic. Articles were eligible if they had at least one cohort of a tactical population and included isokinetic testing of the glenohumeral joint. The search yielded 275 articles. After screening for duplicates and inclusion criteria, 19 articles remained for review, six of which assessed injury correlation. 17 articles evaluated military personnel and two examined firefighters. Articles were categorized by study design, population, isokinetic protocols, strength outcome measures and statistical measures. Concentric internal rotation (IR) and external rotation (ER) strength at 60 degrees/second were reported most frequently (84% of cases). There was a paucity of testing speeds, repetition ranges and contraction types evaluated when compared to existing literature in other populations with high shoulder injury occurrence such as overhead and collision athletes. Outside of military cohorts, there is limited data available to characterise the isokinetic strength profile of the shoulder in tactical occupations. Meta-analysis for injury association was unable to be performed due to independent variable and statistical heterogeneity. However, a best evidence synthesis suggested conflicting evidence to support the association of injury with isokinetic strength testing in tactical populations. Future studies should prioritise prospective designs utilising variable speeds, repetition schemes and contraction types to better capture the dynamic occupational demands in tactical groups.

Effects of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair on isokinetic muscle function 6-months following surgery: influence of tear type, tear size and tendon retraction.

BACKGROUND: Rotator cuff tears are a common musculoskeletal condition which can lead to functional limitations and impairments in quality of life. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of arthroscopic repair surgery on isokinetic muscle function before and 6-months after surgery. Additionally, the mediating effects of tear type, tear size and tendon retraction were examined. METHODS: Data from n = 67 patients (56 ± 9 years) with full-thickness rotator cuff tears were analyzed. Before and 6-months after surgery, isokinetic muscle function in external/internal rotation and abduction/adduction movements was assessed. Further, tear size, tear type (Collin classification) and tendon retraction (Patte classification) were analyzed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). RESULTS: After statistical analysis, a significant increase in limb symmetry index (LSI) of external (p < 0.001), internal rotation (p < 0.01), abduction (p < 0.001) and adduction (p < 0.001) were observed from pre- to post-surgery. The results revealed that tear size and tendon tear type significantly mediated the functional outcome, with no significant effect of tendon retraction. CONCLUSION: The present findings point towards the notion that the functional outcome following rotator cuff repair was significantly dependent on tear type and tear size but not tendon retraction. Patients with larger sized tears presented pronounced deficits following 6-months indicating that rehabilitation times need to be adjusted accordingly.

Are women with endometriosis more likely to experience reduced physical performance compared to women without the condition?

Background: Endometriosis is a condition of the female reproductive system associated with pelvic pain. Chronic pain can affect physical performance by limiting the functional activities, thus, it is hypothesized that women with endometriosis may also present decreased functional capacity, decreased strength, and mobility. The objective of this study is to compare physical performance in women with and without endometriosis. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study composed of 115 women equally divided into two groups: the endometriosis group (EG), composed of women with a confirmed diagnosis of the disease by magnetic resonance imaging, and the comparator group (CG), consisting of women without suspicion of the disease. Physical performance (dependent variable) was assessed using hand dynamometry, the 6-min walk test (6MWT), gait speed, and the chair stands test. CG participants performed the tests during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Descriptive statistics, unpaired t-tests, and chi-square tests were used to describe and compare the groups. Multiple linear regression tested the associations adjusted for covariates (age, income, education, age at menarche, and body mass index). Results: The EG had worse gait speed (mean difference: -0.11; 95% CI: [-0.18 to -0.04]), weaker grip strength (mean difference: -3.32; 95% CI: [-5.30 to -1.33]), shorter distance covered in the 6MWT (mean difference: -83.46; 95% CI: [-121.38 to -45.53]), and a lower number of repetitions in the chair stands test (mean difference: -8.44; 95% CI: [-10.64 to -6.25]) than the CG, even after adjusting for covariates. Conclusion: Grip strength, lower limb strength, mobility, and functional capacity were worse in women diagnosed with endometriosis. Women with endometriosis should be encouraged to engage in physical exercise, adopt healthy lifestyle habits, and participate in rehabilitation activities to control pain, with the aim of reducing functional impairments.

Transference of outdoor gait-training to treadmill running biomechanics and strength measures: A randomized controlled trial.

Outdoor gait-training has been successful in improving pain and reducing contact time during outdoor running for runners with exercise-related lower leg pain (ERLLP). However, it is unclear if these adaptations translate to gold standard treadmill running and clinical strength assessments. The study purpose was to assess the influence of a 4-week outdoor gait-training intervention with home exercises (FBHE) on treadmill running biomechanics and lower extremity strength compared to home exercises alone (HE) among runners with ERLLP. Seventeen runners with ERLLP were randomly allocated to FBHE and HE groups (FBHE: 3 M, 6F, 23 ± 4 years, 22.0 ± 4.6 kg/m2; HE: 3 M, 5F, 25 ± 5 years, 24.0 ± 4.0 kg/m2). Both groups completed eight sessions of home exercises over 4 weeks. The FBHE group received gait-training through wearable sensors to reduce contact time. Treadmill running gait and clinical strength assessments were conducted at baseline and 4-weeks. Multivariate repeated measures analyses of variance were used to assess the influence of group and timepoint for all outcomes. The FBHE group demonstrated significantly decreased contact time at 4-weeks compared to baseline and the HE group (Mean Difference [MD] range: -42 ms - -39 ms; p-range: <0.001-0.02). The FBHE group had significantly increased cadence (MD: +21 steps/min; p = 0.003) and decreased loading impulse (MD: -51, p < 0.001) during treadmill running at 4-weeks compared to the HE group. Strength did not significantly differ adjusting for multiple comparisons (p > 0.007). The outdoor FBHE intervention transferred to favorable changes in treadmill running biomechanics. Clinicians treating runners with ERLLP patients should implement data-driven outdoor gait-training to maximize patient benefits across running locations.

Test-Retest Reliability of Isokinetic Strength in Lower Limbs under Single and Dual Task Conditions in Women with Fibromyalgia.

Background: Previous research has established good test-retest reliability for isokinetic dynamometry in fibromyalgia. However, the reliability of this test under dual-task conditions has not been investigated in fibromyalgia. Methods: A total of 10 women with fibromyalgia participated in this study. Participants completed the concentric/concentric test. The dual-task condition involved subtracting two by two while performing the test. Results: Reliability analysis under the single condition showed "poor" to "excellent" values for maximum peak torque in knee extension and "moderate" to "excellent" values for average. "Poor" to "excellent" reliability values were found in knee flexion for the maximum and average. Dual-task condition in knee extension ranged from "moderate" to "excellent" for maximum and average values, and in knee flexion, it ranged from "poor" to "excellent" for maximum value and from "moderate" to "excellent" for average value. Conclusions: Isokinetic dynamometry demonstrated sufficient reliability for measuring strength in knee extension maximum and average during single-task and dual-task conditions, along with knee flexion dual-task average in fibromyalgia. For knee flexion single-task maximum and average and knee flexion dual-task maximum, we did not obtain sufficiently reliable measurements. Only the concentric/concentric test has been studied, and future studies with a larger sample size are needed in order to generalize the results.

EVALUATION OF VOLUME AND STRENGTH OF THE QUADRICEPS MUSCLE BEFORE AND AFTER ANTERIOR CRUCIATED LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION SURGERY / AVALIAÇÃO DO VOLUME E FORÇA DO MÚSCULO QUADRÍCEPS ANTES E APÓS OPERAÇÃO DE RECONSTRUÇÃO DO LIGAMENTO CRUZADO ANTERIOR

Introduction: The anterior cruciate ligament is one of the main ligaments of the knee, often more susceptible to injuries due to its central position and its vital role in stabilizing this joint. The strength of the quadriceps plays a crucial role, with impact absorption function, helping to reduce load. Objective: To evaluate the volume and strength of the quadriceps muscle before and after reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament of the knee, their correlation and which variables predict pre- and postoperative muscle strength. Method: Prospective cohort of 37 patients evaluated preoperatively and 4 months after the operation, using magnetic resonance imaging and isokinetic dynamometry. The measurements of the limb undergoing the operation were compared to the contralateral limb as a control. Result: The volume of the quadriceps muscle was 65.2+13.4cm3 before and 63.4+15.9 cm3 after, significantly lower in the control at both moments, with a reduction of 3.0cm3 (4.1%) in the pre and 7.8 cm3 post (12.0%). Muscle strength was 105.5+29.9N/m before and 100.9+28.6N/m after, significantly lower in the operated limb (126.4+28.2N/m and 129.6+27.6N /m, p<0.001). This reduction was similar in the 2 evaluation moments, on average of 17.5N/m (16.3%) in the pre and 22.8N/m (22.5%) in the post. The loss of strength was greater than the loss of muscle volume, with muscle volume and time of anterior cruciate ligament injury being the main determinants of muscle strength in the pre-op. The strength in the post was mainly determined by that in the pre. Conclusion: The loss of muscle strength was 4 times greater than the loss of volume pre-operatively and 2 times greater post-operatively, indicating the beginning of recovery 4 months post-operatively.

Introdução: O ligamento cruzado anterior é um dos principais ligamentos do joelho, frequentemente mais suscetível às lesões devido à sua posição central e seu papel vital na estabilização desta articulação. A força do quadríceps desempenha papel crucial, com função de absorção de impacto, auxiliando na redução de carga. Objetivo: Avaliar o volume e a força do músculo quadríceps antes e após a reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior do joelho, sua correlação e quais as variáveis preditivas da força muscular pré e pós-operatória. Método: Coorte prospectiva de 37 pacientes avaliados no pré-operatório e com 4 meses após a operação, por meio de ressonância magnética e dinamometria isocinética. As medidas do membro submetido à operação foram comparadas ao membro contralateral como controle. Resultado: O volume do músculo quadríceps foi de 65,2+13,4cm3 antes e de 63,4+15,9 cm3 após, significativamente menor no controle nos 2 momentos, com redução de 3,0cm3 (4,1%) no pré e 7,8 cm3 no pós (12,0%). A força muscular foi de 105,5+29,9N/m antes e de 100,9+28,6N/m após, significativamente menor no membro operado (126,4+28,2N/m e 129,6+27,6N/m, p<0,001). Esta redução foi semelhante nos 2 momentos de avaliação, em média de 17,5N/m (16,3%) no pré e de 22,8N/m (22,5%) no pós. A perda de força foi maior que a perda de volume muscular, sendo que o volume muscular e o tempo da lesão do ligamento cruzado anterior foram os principais determinantes da força muscular no pré. A força no pós foi determinada principalmente pela do pré. Conclusão: A perda de força muscular foi 4 vezes maior que a perda de volume no pré e 2 vezes maior no pós, indicando início da recuperação com 4 meses no pós-operatório.

Intersession reliability of lower limb muscle strength assessments in adults with obesity eligible for bariatric surgery.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to examine the test-retest reliability in lower limb muscle strength and rate of torque development (RTD) using isokinetic dynamometry in adults with obesity, with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 35 kg/m2 . METHOD: Thirty-two adults with a BMI of 43.8 ± 6.6 kg/m2 eligible for bariatric surgery were enroled in the study. Isokinetic and isometric knee extensor (KE) and flexor (KF) strength were assessed in an isokinetic dynamometer (Biodex 4) during three test sessions separated by 3-7 days. RESULTS: There were no statistical differences in peak KE and KF torque for any test modalities between sessions. Intraclass correlation (ICC) was 0.91-0.94 between sessions 1 and 2 and 0.94-0.97 between sessions 2 and 3. Standard error of measurement (SEM%) and coefficient of variation (CV) ranged across test sessions from 4.3% to 7.3%. KE RTD showed high test-retest reliability following familiarization, with ICC, CV and SEM% values ranging from 0.84 to 0.90, 13.3%-20.3% and 14.6%-24.9%, respectively. CONCLUSION: Maximal lower limb muscle strength measured by isokinetic dynamometry showed excellent test-retest reliability manifested by small measurement errors and low CV. Reliability was slightly improved by including a familiarization session. KE RTD but not KF RTD demonstrated high test-retest reliability following familiarization. The present data indicate that isokinetic dynamometry can be used to detect even small changes in lower limb muscle strength in adults with obesity.

Quantitative tools to assess pelvic floor muscle function - systematic review.

OBJECTIVES: Urinary incontinence is pelvic floor muscles dysfunction, most often caused by a weakening of their strength. There are no guidelines on how to evaluate pelvic floor muscle function. Palpation is the most popular method of assessing pelvic floor muscle function, but it is subjective. The aim of the study was to review the objective methods used in the assessment of pelvic floor muscle function in women with urinary incontinence. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A systematic literature review of the PubMed database was performed using the following keywords: ["Pelvic Floor" (mh)] AND [("Pelvic Floor Disorders" (mh)] OR ["Urinary Incontinence" (mh)]. The search was limited to English-language works published from 2011 to 2021. The inclusion criteria were interventional studies in which the pelvic floor muscle function of women with urinary incontinence was assessed using quantitative tools. Methods that cannot be used in the clinic were excluded from the analysis. RESULTS: Fifty-two articles were included in the analysis and five methods assessing the function of pelvic floor muscle were distinguished: manometry, electromyography (EMG), ultrasonography (USG), dynamometry, accelerometry. CONCLUSIONS: Manometry, EMG and USG are the most common objective methods of assessing pelvic floor muscle function. When taking measurements, it is important to choose the right position of the patient. The use of objective tools to assess the function of the pelvic floor muscle and obtaining quantitative and/or qualitative data allows us to precisely diagnose and monitor the treatment and rehabilitation progress.

Reliability and Validity of the End Range Hamstring Strength Test with Handheld Dynamometry.

Background and Purpose: Hamstring strength testing is crucial in assessing this important muscle group during rehabilitation and injury prevention. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the reliability and validity of measuring strength in a maximally lengthened position using a handheld dynamometer (HHD) compared to isokinetic testing. Methods: Twenty healthy and active participants were recruited, and isometric strength testing was performed both on the Biodex machine and isometric end-range hamstring testing with the HHD on two occasions. Results: Significant strong correlations (r= 0.87, p < 0.0001) were found between strength testing on the Biodex machine and the HHD for both the right and left sides. Bland-Altman plots demonstrated agreement between the two measurements. Excellent intra-rater reliability (ICC= 0.91-0.93) and moderate to good inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.71-0.83) for the HHD test was demonstrated. Conclusions: The HHD provides a reliable and valid alternative to isokinetic testing for assessing hamstring strength in a maximally lengthened position. This assessment can be valuable in monitoring rehabilitation progress and detecting deficits before and after returning to play. The HHD is an accessible and cost-effective option for assessing hamstring strength at long lengths in a clinical setting. Level of evidence: 3.

Ebbing Strength, Fading Power: Unveiling the Impact of Persistent Fatigue on Muscle Performance in COVID-19 Survivors.

The total number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus infection is over 621 million. Post-COVID-19 syndrome, also known as long COVID or long-haul COVID, refers to a persistent condition where individuals experience symptoms and health issues after the acute phase of COVID-19. The aim of this study was to assess the strength and fatigue of skeletal muscles in people recovered from COVID-19. A total of 94 individuals took part in this cross-sectional study, with 45 participants (referred to as the Post-COVID Cohort, PCC) and 49 healthy age-matched volunteers (Healthy Control Cohort, HCC). This research article uses the direct dynamometry method to provide a detailed analysis of post-COVID survivors' strength and power characteristics. The Biodex System 4 Pro was utilized to evaluate muscle strength characteristics during the fatigue test. The fatigue work in extensors and flexors was significantly higher in the PCC. The PCC also showed significantly less power in both extensors and flexors compared to the HCC. In conclusion, this study provides compelling evidence of the impact of post-COVID-19 fatigue on muscle performance, highlighting the importance of considering these effects in the rehabilitation and care of individuals recovering from the virus. PCC achieved lower muscle strength values than HCC.

Is the Elite Female Athlete's Pelvic Floor Stronger?

Background: Exercise can stress the pelvic floor muscles (PFMs). This study sought to assess the strength of the PFMs according to the level of physical exercise. Methods: An analytical observational study was carried out using digital palpation and dynamometry measurements to assess PF strength. Healthy nulliparous women were stratified according to physical exercise (physically active and sedentary) and level of physical exercise (elite, amateur, and sedentary). Results: Fifty-four women were analyzed, with a mean age of 25.64 (5.33) years and a BMI of 21.41 (2.96) kg/m2. Differences in the passive force and strength were observed between both groups of women (p < 0.05), and the strength was around two times higher in physically active women (p < 0.05). The strength was similar between elite female athletes and sedentary women (p > 0.05), but statistical differences were found with amateurs (p < 0.05). The PFM strength (p = 0.019) of elite female athletes (0.34 N) was almost half that of amateurs (0.63 N) and twice as strong as that of sedentary women (0.20 N). However, these differences were not significant using digital palpation (p = 0.398). Conclusions: Women who exercise generally have greater PFM strength than women who do not exercise. Physical exercise could strengthen the PFM; however, the high intensity demanded by high-level sports does not seem to proportionally increase the strength of the PFMs.

Variability of unilateral and bilateral isometric muscle strength of lower extremities extensors in young females and males.

BACKGROUND: The muscle strength of the lower extremity extensors can be evaluated in the closed kinetic chain (CKC) during unilateral or bilateral conditions. Factors such as the mass and length of the muscle, joint angle, type of contraction, and gender influence the magnitude of the muscle strength. The aim of this study was to compare the isometric strength of lower extremity extensors between the different knee extension angles (KEs) as well as between bilateral and unilateral conditions. METHODS: Nineteen female students (age: 20.2 ± 0.6 years) and nineteen male students (age: 20.3 ± 0.7 years) participated in the study. The muscle strength was evaluated in CKC using the strain gauge dynamometer. The analysis included values of the maximum muscle strength normalized to body mass (MS/BM) for the six KEs of 80°, 70°, 60°, 50°, 40° and 30°. RESULTS: A significant main effect in the MS/BM values for the angle factor (p < 0.001) and condition factor (p < 0.001) was found. Moreover, there was a non-significant interaction effect between the angle factor and gender factor (p = 0.476) as well as between the condition factor and gender factor (p = 0.770). Comparisons showed significant differences in the MS/BM values between the six KEs (p < 0.001). Furthermore, significantly lower MS/BM values for bilateral conditions than unilateral conditions at the 30° KE were observed (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The decrease in KE by 10° significantly increased the muscle strength of the lower extremity extensors. Gender did not affect the change in MS/BM values with the change in KE and conditions. Findings also revealed significant bilateral deficit, i.e., significantly a lower summed muscle strength during bilateral conditions than unilateral conditions. The study emphasized the importance of selecting the 30° KE as the optimal angle to assess the maximum strength developed in CKC.

The acute effects of running on pelvic floor morphology and function in runners with and without running-induced stress urinary incontinence.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: The aim of this study was to examine the impact of a single running session on pelvic floor morphology and function in female runners, and to compare those with and without running-induced stress urinary incontinence (RI-SUI). METHODS: This cross-sectional, observational study involved two groups: female runners who regularly experienced RI-SUI (n = 19) and runners who did not (n = 20). Pelvic floor muscle (PFM) properties were assessed using intravaginal dynamometry during maximal voluntary contractions (MVC) and during passive tissue elongation. The morphology of the pelvic floor was assessed at rest, during MVC and during maximal Valsalva maneuver (MVM) using 2D and 3D transperineal ultrasound imaging before and after a running protocol. Mixed-effects ANOVA models were used to compare all outcomes between groups and within-groups, including the interaction between group and time. Effect sizes were calculated. RESULTS: No changes in PFM function assessed using intravaginal dynamometry were observed in either group after the run. Significant and large within-group differences were observed on ultrasound imaging. Specifically, the area and antero-posterior diameter of the levator hiatus were larger after the run, the bladder neck height was lower after the run, and the levator plate length was longer after the run (p ≤ 0.05). At the peak MVM and MVC, the bladder neck height was lower after the run than before the run (p ≤ 0.05). No between-group differences were observed for any outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Running appears to cause transient strain of the passive tissues of the female pelvic floor in runners both with and without RI-SUI, whereas no concurrent changes are observed in PFM contractile function.

Relationship between quantitative strength and functional outcomes in the phase 2 FORTITUDE-ALS trial.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the relationship among measurements of strength, function, and quality of life in an amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) clinical trial. METHODS: In the FORTITUDE-ALS clinical trial (NCT03160898), 456 participants in the full-analysis set were treated with either reldesemtiv or placebo for 12 weeks; this post hoc analysis included all participants regardless of treatment assignments. Assessments included slow vital capacity (SVC), the ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R), and the 5-item ALS Assessment Questionnaire (ALSAQ-5). Muscle strength was measured quantitatively with hand-held dynamometry, and grip strength with a dedicated dynamometer. The relationship between strength and ALSFRS-R fine and gross motor domain scores, or responses to ALSAQ-5 questions on hand function and walking, was assessed with Spearman's rank correlation. The relationship between mean upper- or lower-extremity muscle strength and specific ALSFRS-R domains was modeled using principal-components analysis. RESULTS: Upper-extremity muscle strength and hand grip were highly correlated with ALSFRS-R fine motor scores and the ALSAQ-5 hand function question. Similarly, lower-extremity strength correlated well with ALSFRS-R gross motor domain and the ALSAQ-5 walking question. For SVC, correlation was poor with the ALSFRS-R respiratory domain, but stronger with the total score, potentially reflecting the insensitivity of the respiratory questions in the scale. Upper- and lower-extremity strength were both strong predictors of ALSFRS-R domain scores. CONCLUSIONS: In this analysis of data from an ALS clinical trial, muscle strength quantified by dynamometry was strongly correlated with functional capacity. These results suggest that muscle strength directly relates to specific functions of importance to people with ALS.

Reliability, Concurrent Validity, and Minimal Detectable Change of the Hand-Held Dynamometry for the Assessment of Knee Muscle Strength in Patients With Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the concurrent validity, reliability, and minimal detectable change (MDC) of the hand-held dynamometry (HHD) for knee strength measurement in patients with revision total knee arthroplasty (r-TKA). DESIGN: A reliability and validity analysis. SETTING: Orthopedic and physical therapy services of university hospital. PARTICIPANTS: The study included 42 patients with r-TKA (N=42). INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Knee muscle strength assessments were performed by 2 physiotherapists in 3 different sessions by using HHD. Participants were instructed to exert a maximal force for lasting 5 seconds against HHD. The first examiner performed the strength testing, and after 30-minutes rest, the second examiner performed the same procedure for inter-examiner reliability. One hour after the initial testing, the first examiner reperformed the strength testing for intra-examiner reliability. The correlations of the knee extensors and knee flexors strength with 50-foot walking test and 30-second chair stand test were assessed for concurrent validity. RESULTS: The inter-examiner reliabilities of knee extensors and flexors strength measurements were 0.97 and 0.95, respectively. The SEM and the minimal detectable changes at 95% confidence level (MDC95) for knee extensors were 10.39 and 28.65 Newton-meters (Nm), and SEM and MDC95 for knee flexors were 8.70 and 23.99 Nm, respectively. The intra-examiner reliabilities of knee extensors and flexors strength measurements were 0.96. SEM and MDC95 for knee extensors were 12.00 and 33.09 Nm, and SEM and MDC95 for knee flexors were 7.78 and 21.45 Nm, respectively. The knee muscle strength showed strong significant correlations with physical performance tests (all, P<.05). CONCLUSIONS: The HHD is a reliable and valid method for assessment of static knee strength after r-TKA. The HHD can be used to quantify changes in knee strength and also assists the clinicians to determine the effect of rehabilitation programs on muscle strength following r-TKA surgery.

Inline dynamometry provides reliable measurements of quadriceps strength in healthy and ACL-reconstructed individuals and is a valid substitute for isometric electromechanical dynamometry following ACL reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Quadriceps strength testing is recommended to guide rehabilitation and mitigate the risk of second injury following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Hand-held dynamometry is a practical alternative to electromechanical dynamometry but demonstrates insufficient reliability and criterion validity in healthy and ACL-reconstructed participants respectively. The purpose of this study is to investigate the reliability and concurrent validity of inline dynamometry for measuring quadriceps strength. The hypotheses are that intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) values will be >0.90 for reliability and concurrent validity. METHODS: This was a cross sectional study using a within-participant, repeated measures design. Isometric quadriceps testing was performed at 60° knee flexion in 50 healthy and 52 ACL-reconstructed participants. Interrater reliability, intrarater reliability, and concurrent validity of inline dynamometry was investigated through calculation of ICCs, Bland-Altman analysis, linear regression, standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC). RESULTS: The lower bounds of the 95% confidence intervals were >0.90 for all reliability and validity ICCs in healthy and ACL-reconstructed participants, except for intrarater reliability in healthy participants using absolute scores (ICC = 0.936 [95% CI 0.890-0.963]). In ACL-reconstructed participants, Bland-Altman bias was 0.01 Nm/kg for absolute and average scores, limits of agreement were -11.74% to 12.59% for absolute scores, the SEM was 0.13Nm/kg (95% CI 0.10-0.17) and the MDC was 0.36Nm/kg (95% CI 0.28 - 0.47). CONCLUSION: Inline dynamometry is a reliable and economical alternative to electromechanical dynamometry for the assessment of quadriceps strength following ACL-reconstruction. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05109871).

Portable device for measuring isometric plantar-flexion force after open Achilles repair: Retrospective cohort of 30 recreational athletes with one-year minimum follow-up.

BACKGROUND: Plantar flexion force in recreational athletes after repair of Achilles tendon tears has rarely been reported, due to the lack of a widely available and fast measurement method. Knowledge of this parameter would allow optimisation of muscular and sports recovery. The main objective of this study was to measure the isometric force of the triceps surae at least 1 year after unilateral Achilles-tendon repair, comparatively to the unaffected side, using a portable device. The secondary objectives were to compare Achilles tendon and calf-muscle trophicity, dorsiflexion, and the single-leg heel-rise test versus the normal side and to assess functional scores at last follow-up. HYPOTHESES: (i) Plantar flexion force does not differ significantly between the operated and contralateral sides. (ii) Calf-muscle trophicity, dorsiflexion, and the single-leg heel-rise test do not differ significantly between the operated and contralateral sides. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This single-centre retrospective study included patients aged 18 to 65 years with a history of open repair of an acute unilateral Achilles tear at least 1 year earlier. Plantar flexion force, calf-muscle trophicity, dorsiflexion, and the heel-to-floor distance were measured on both sides and compared. The ATRS, VISA-A score, and EFAS score were determined. All complications were recorded. RESULTS: The study included 30 patients with a mean follow-up of 20.3 months (range, 12-28 months). The operated side had significantly lower values for isometric triceps surae force, calf circumference, and heel-to-floor distance compared to the contralateral side (p<0.0001). Tendon width was significantly greater on the operated side (p<0.0001). Dorsiflexion did not differ significantly between sides (p=0.106). Mean functional score values were 91.5±6 for the ATRS (maximum, 100), 85±12 for the VISA-A score (maximum, 100), and 19.5±4 for the EFAS score (maximum, 24). DISCUSSION: Isometric triceps-surae force measured using a portable device at least 1 year after open surgical Achilles-tendon repair was significantly decreased compared to the contralateral side. Calf circumference and heel-to-floor distance were also significantly lower. These data indicate a need for improved monitoring of triceps surae recovery to optimise rehabilitation and sports resumption. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV, retrospective comparative cohort study.

Impacto de la diabetes, la desnutrición y la sarcopenia en el pronóstico de los pacientes hospitalizados en Medicina Interna / Impact of diabetes, malnutrition and sarcopenia on the prognosis of patients admitted to Internal Medicine

Objetivo Describir los pacientes hospitalizados en medicina interna en términos de desnutrición y sarcopenia, en función de la presencia o no de diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DM2), así como evaluar la mortalidad a corto y largo plazo relacionada con ambas. Métodos Estudio de cohortes, unicéntrico, que recoge pacientes consecutivos ingresados en Medicina Interna en mayo y octubre del 2021. La desnutrición se determinó mediante el Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form (MNA-SF) y la sarcopenia mediante SARC-F y dinamometría. Se excluyó a los pacientes hospitalizados más de 48 h. Resultados Se analiza a 511 pacientes, 49,1% varones, edad media de 75,2±15 años, 210 (41,1%) DM2. Se generan 6 grupos (diseño 2 × 3) en función de la presencia de DM2 y del estado nutricional acorde con el resultado del MNA-SF: 12-14 puntos, sin riesgo; MNA-SF 8-12 puntos, alto riesgo; MNA-SF 0-7 puntos, desnutridos. Los pacientes con DM2 y desnutridos tenían significativamente mayor sarcopenia, comorbilidad, inflamación y úlceras por presión. Los principales determinantes de mortalidad intrahospitalaria fueron la sarcopenia (OR 1,27, IC del 95%, 1,06-1,54, p=0,01), la comorbilidad (OR 1,27, IC del 95%, 1,08-1,49, p=0,003) y la inflamación (OR 1,01, IC del 95%, 1,00-1,02, p=0,02). El pronóstico a 120 días fue peor entre los pacientes desnutridos (p=0,042). Conclusión Los pacientes ingresados con DM2 presentan similar grado de desnutrición que el resto, pero con mayor sarcopenia. Esta sarcopenia, junto a la inflamación y la comorbilidad determinan un peor pronóstico. La identificación activa y temprana de la desnutrición y la sarcopenia, y su abordaje posterior podrían mejorar el pronóstico de los pacientes (AU)

Objective To describe patients hospitalized in internal medicine in terms of malnutrition and sarcopenia, depending on the presence or absence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2), as well as to evaluate short- and long-term mortality related to both. Methods Cross-sectional, single-center study, which included consecutive patients admitted to internal medicine in May and October 2021. Malnutrition was determined using the Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form (MNA-SF) and sarcopenia using SARC-F and handgrip strength. Patients hospitalized for more than 48h are excluded. Results Five hundred and 11patients were analyzed, 49.1% male, mean age 75.2±15 years, 210 (41.1%) DM2. Six groups (2×3 design) are generated based on the presence of DM2 and the nutritional status according to the result of the MNA-SF: 12–14 points, without risk; MNA-SF 8–12 points, high risk; MNA-SF 0–7 points, malnourished. Malnourished patients with DM2 had significantly higher sarcopenia, comorbidity, inflammation, and pressure ulcers. The main determinants of in-hospital mortality were sarcopenia (OR 1.27, 95% CI: 1.06–1.54, p=0.01), comorbidity (OR 1.27, 95% CI: 1.08–1.49, p=0.003) and inflammation (OR 1.01, 95% CI: 1.00–1.02, p=0.02). The 120-day prognosis was worse among malnourished patients (p=0.042). Conclusion Patients admitted with DM2 have a similar degree of malnutrition than the rest, but with greater sarcopenia. This sarcopenia, together with inflammation and comorbidity determine a worse prognosis. The active and early identification of malnutrition and sarcopenia and their subsequent approach could improve the prognosis of patients (AU)

Characterization of muscle strength and mobility in oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy.

INTRODUCTION/AIMS: Muscle weakness, and its association with mobility limitations, has received little study in oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy (OPMD) using quantitative and standardized assessments. The objectives of this study were to (1) document upper and lower limb muscle strength, upper limb functions, fatigue, and mobility capacities; (2) compare them with reference values and across participant age groups; and (3) explore associations between muscle strength, fatigue, and mobility capacities among adults with OPMD. METHODS: Thirty-four participants were included in this cross-sectional study. The following variables were assessed: quantitative maximal isometric muscle strength, grip and pinch strength, fatigue, walking speed, walking endurance, sit-to-stand, and stair ascent and descent capacities. RESULTS: Muscle strength was lower for older than younger participants for five muscle groups (P < .05). Walking endurance, sit-to-stand, stairs (ascent and descent), and strength of hip flexion, grip, and pinch were below 80% of reference values in participants ≥56 y old (55.3%-78.2%). Moderate to strong correlations were found between muscle strength and mobility capacities (ρ = 0.42-0.80, P < .05), and between fatigue and either muscle strength or mobility capacities (ρ = 0.42-0.75, P < .05). DISCUSSION: This study highlights the impact of OPMD on strength, endurance, and functional capacity, among others, with patients being well below reference values even before the age of 65 y. In addition to helping health professionals to offer better clinical guidance, these results will improve clinical trial readiness. The next steps will be to assess the metrological properties of outcome measures and continue to document the disease progression rate.

Effects of a 20-Week High-Intensity Strength Training Program on Muscle Strength Gain and Cardiac Adaptation in Untrained Men: Preliminary Results of a Prospective Longitudinal Study.

BACKGROUND: As strength sports gain popularity, there is a growing need to explore the impact of sustained strength training on cardiac biventricular structure and function, an area that has received less attention compared to the well-established physiological cardiac adaptation to endurance training. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to implement a 20-week high-intensity strength training program to enhance maximal muscle strength and evaluate its impact on cardiac biventricular adaptation in healthy, untrained men. METHODS: A total of 27 healthy and untrained young men (mean age 22.8, SD 3.2 years) participated in a strength training program designed to increase muscle strength. The training program involved concentric, eccentric, and isometric exercise phases, conducted over a consecutive 20-week time frame with a frequency of 3 weekly training sessions. Participants were evaluated before and after 12 and 20 weeks of training through body composition analysis (bioelectrical impedance), a 12-lead resting electrocardiogram, 3D transthoracic echocardiography, cardiopulmonary exercise testing, and muscle isokinetic dynamometry. The progression of strength training loads was guided by 1-repetition maximum (RM) testing during the training program. RESULTS: Of the initial cohort, 22 participants completed the study protocol. No injuries were reported. The BMI (mean 69.8, SD 10.8 kg/m² vs mean 72, SD 11 kg/m²; P=.72) and the fat mass (mean 15.3%, SD 7.5% vs mean 16.5%, SD 7%; P=.87) remained unchanged after training. The strength training program led to significant gains in 1-RM exercise testing as early as 4 weeks into training for leg extension (mean 69.6, SD 17.7 kg vs mean 96.5, SD 31 kg; P<.001), leg curl (mean 43.2, SD 9.7 kg vs mean 52.8, SD 13.4 kg; P<.001), inclined press (mean 174.1, SD 41.1 kg vs mean 229.2, SD 50.4 kg; P<.001), butterfly (mean 26.3, SD 6.2 kg vs mean 32.5, SD 6.6 kg; P<.001), and curl biceps on desk (mean 22.9, SD 5.2 kg vs mean 29.6, SD 5.2 kg; P<.001). After 20 weeks, the 1-RM leg curl, bench press, pullover, butterfly, leg extension, curl biceps on desk, and inclined press showed significant mean percentage gains of +40%, +41.1%, +50.3%, +63.5%, +80.1%, +105%, and +106%, respectively (P<.001). Additionally, the isokinetic evaluation confirmed increases in maximal strength for the biceps (+9.2 Nm), triceps (+11.6 Nm), quadriceps (+46.8 Nm), and hamstrings (+25.3 Nm). In this paper, only the training and muscular aspects are presented; the cardiac analysis will be addressed separately. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that a short-term high-intensity strength training program was successful in achieving significant gains in muscle strength among previously untrained young men. We intend to use this protocol to gain a better understanding of the impact of high-intensity strength training on cardiac physiological remodeling, thereby providing new insights into the cardiac global response in strength athletes. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04187170; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04187170.