Influence of upper body stretching exercises on shot put / Influência dos exercícios de alongamento da parte superior do corpo no arremesso de peso / Influencia de los ejercicios de estiramiento de la parte superior del cuerpo en el lanzamiento de peso

ABSTRACT Introduction The technique in the shot put and the ability in the throwing stage are two important factors that determine the ability of athletes. Qualified experts and coaches attach great importance to training and research on the ability of the throwing stage and the ability to throw. Objective Compare gravity load training and single incremental load training through practical means, analyzing the impacts on throwing ability in athletes. Methods The self-assessment method was used to conduct the comparative experiment on different forms of strength training in 20 college students. The experimental scheme adopts the single incremental load strength training, and the control scheme adopts the traditional barbell training. Results : After the experiment, the hand angle of group I was significantly higher than that of group II (P < 0.05); after the experiment, the shoulder angle of group I was significantly higher than that of group II (P < 0.05); after the experiment, the performance of the seated shot placed in group I was significantly higher than that of group II (P < 0.05), and there was no significant difference in the standing performance (P > 0.05). Conclusion Single incremental load training can significantly improve the throwing ability of shot put athletes. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment outcomes.

RESUMO Introdução A técnica no arremesso de peso e a habilidade na etapa de arremessar são dois fatores importantes que determinam a habilidade dos atletas Especialistas e treinadores qualificados atribuem grande importância ao treinamento e pesquisa sobre a habilidade da fase de arremesso e a capacidade de arremessar. Objetivo Comparar o treinamento com carga gravitacional e o treinamento com carga incremental única através de meios experimentais, analisando os impactos na habilidade de arremesso nos atletas. Métodos O método de auto-avaliação foi usado para realizar o experimento comparativo de diferentes formas de treinamento de força em 20 estudantes universitários. O esquema experimental adota o treinamento único de força de carga incremental, e o esquema de controle adota o treinamento tradicional de barra. Resultados : Após o experimento, o ângulo da mão do grupo I foi significativamente maior do que o do grupo II (P < 0,05); após o experimento, o ângulo do ombro do grupo I foi significativamente maior do que o do grupo II (P < 0,05); após o experimento, o desempenho do tiro sentado colocado no grupo I foi significativamente maior do que o do grupo II (P < 0,05), e não houve diferença significativa no desempenho em pé (P > 0,05). Conclusão O treinamento com carga incremental única pode melhorar significativamente a capacidade de arremesso dos atletas de arremesso de peso. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos - investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

RESUMEN Introducción La técnica en el lanzamiento de peso y la habilidad en la fase de lanzamiento son dos factores importantes que determinan la habilidad de los atletas. Los especialistas y entrenadores cualificados atribuyen gran importancia a la formación y a la investigación sobre la habilidad de la fase de lanzamiento y la habilidad de lanzamiento. Objetivo Comparar el entrenamiento con carga gravitacional y el entrenamiento con carga incremental única a través de medios experimentales, analizando los impactos en la capacidad de lanzamiento en los atletas. Métodos Se utilizó el método de autoevaluación para realizar el experimento comparativo de diferentes formas de entrenamiento de fuerza en 20 estudiantes universitarios. El esquema experimental adopta el entrenamiento de fuerza con una sola carga incremental, y el esquema de control adopta el entrenamiento tradicional con barra. Resultados : Después del experimento, el ángulo de la mano del grupo I fue significativamente mayor que el del grupo II (P < 0,05); después del experimento, el ángulo del hombro del grupo I fue significativamente mayor que el del grupo II (P < 0,05); después del experimento, el rendimiento del lanzamiento de peso sentado del grupo I fue significativamente mayor que el del grupo II (P < 0,05), y no hubo diferencias significativas en el rendimiento de pie (P > 0,05). Conclusión El entrenamiento con una sola carga incremental puede mejorar significativamente la capacidad de lanzamiento de los atletas de lanzamiento de peso. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

Efeito do oncofitness na amplitude articular de pacientes com câncer de próstata / Efecto del oncofitnessen el rango de movimiento articular de pacientes con cáncer de próstata / Effect of oncofitness in joint amplitude of patients with prostate cancer

RESUMO O objetivo da pesquisa foi avaliar o efeito de um Programa de Exercício Físico Oncológico - ONCOFITNESS na amplitude articular em pacientes com câncer submetidos à radioterapia. O estudo é um tipo de ensaio clínico prospectivo randomizado controlado no qual se compara o efeito e o valor de uma intervenção, com características profiláticas ou terapêuticas, em seres humanos. Os procedimentos consideraram as normas para realização de pesquisas em seres humanos com a aprovação do projeto pelo CEP/Hospital Mário Kröeff. A avaliação da flexibilidade foi realizada seguindo o protocolo LABIFIE, com goniômetro de aço da marca Lafayette® (EUA). O grupo experimental realizou uma intervenção com Oncofitness. Após esse período, foi realizada outra avaliação, seguindo os mesmos procedimentos. A análise estatística foi realizada no programa SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) versão 20.0. A amostra foi composta por 30 homens com idade GE (X ̅ = 59,0 ± 2,0 anos) e GC (X ̅ = 60,0 ± 1,0 anos). Os dados revelaram que os ganhos do GE foram observados em: flexão do joelho (∆%=5,0%, p=0,0011x); em abdução do quadril (∆%=15,8%, p=0,003x); em rotação interna (∆%=8,1%, p=0,0129x) e em flexão de ombro, (∆%=8,3%, p=0,0185x). Não foi observado ganho no GC, pode-se verificar que o Oncofitness proporcionou a redução de alguns dos sintomas relacionados aos tratamentos oncológicos devido à melhora da amplitude articular.

RESUMEN El objetivo de la investigación fue evaluar el efecto de un Programa de Ejercicios Físicos Oncológicos - ONCOFITNESS en la amplitud articular en pacientes oncológicos sometidos a radioterapia. El estudio es tipo ensayo clínico controlado randomizado, prospectivo en que compara el efecto y valor de una intervención, con características profilácticas o terapéuticas, en seres humanos. Los procedimientos consideraron las normas para la realización de investigación en seres humanos con la aprobación del proyecto por el CEP/Hospital Mário Kröeff. La evaluación de la flexibilidad fue realizada siguiendo el protocolo del LABIFIE, con un goniómetro de acero da marca Lafayette® (EUA). El grupo experimental realizó una intervención con el Oncofitness. Después de ese periodo, se realizó otra evaluación, siguiendo los mismos procedimientos. El análisis estadístico fue realizado mediante el SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) versión 20.0. La muestra fue de 30 hombres con edades GE (X ̅ = 59,0 ± 2,0 años) y GC (X ̅ = 60,0 ± 1,0 años). Los datos revelaron que fueron observadas ganancias GE en: flexión de rodillas (∆%=5,0%, p=0,0011x); en la abducción de cadera (∆%=15,8%, p=0,003x); en la rotación interna (∆%=8,1%, p=0,0129x) y en flexión de hombro, (∆%=8,3%, p=0,0185x). No fue observada ganancia en el GC, se puede verificar que el Oncofitness proporcionó la reducción de algunos de los síntomas relacionados a los tratamientos oncológicos por la mejora de la amplitud articular.

ABSTRACT The research aimed to evaluate the effect of an Oncology Physical Exercises Program - ONCOFITNESS on the joint range of cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. The study is considered a randomized controlled clinical trial, being prospective in that it compares the effect and value of an intervention, with prophylactic or therapeutic characteristics, in human beings. The procedures met the standards for researching human beings, and the project was approved. CEP/Hospital Mário Kröeff. Flexibility measurement performed following the LABIFIE protocol, with a Lafayette® brand steel goniometer (USA). The experimental group performed an intervention with Oncofitness. After this period, another evaluation was carried out, following the same procedures. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) version 20.0. Sample of 30 men aged GE (X ̅ = 59.0 ± 2.0 years) and CG (X ̅ = 60.0 ± 1.0 years). The data revealed that gains were observed in the EG in knee flexion (∆%=5.0%, p=0.0011x); in hip abduction (∆%=15.8%, p=0.003x); in internal rotation (∆%=8.1%, p=0.0129x) and in shoulder flexion, (∆%=8.3%, p=0.0185x). As was not observed in the CG, Oncofitness provided a reduction in some of the symptoms related to oncological treatments by improving joint range of motion.

Relación entre dismenorrea y síndrome de dolor miofascial. Perspectiva desde la fisioterapia. Estudio piloto aleatorizado / Relationship between dysmenorrhoea and Myofascial Pain Syndrome. A physiotherapist perspective. Pilot randomized trial

La dismenorrea es el conjunto de síntomas que se pueden padecer durante la menstruación, siendo el más característico un dolor intenso. El síndrome de dolor miofascial es el conjunto de signos y síntomas que producen los puntos gatillo miofasciales (PGM) tanto en su localización como a distancia, entre otros el dolor. Por lo tanto, el objetivo del estudio es estudiar la eficacia del tratamiento fisioterápico de los PGM en musculatura abdominal, aductora y del suelo pélvico para con la afectación de las variables de dolor, función sexual, calidad de vida, fuerza y movimiento en pacientes con dismenorrea. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio piloto aleatorizado. Se dividió a las participantes entre un grupo A (n = 6) donde se aplicó punción seca y terapia manual en musculatura abdominal, aductora de la cadera y suelo pélvico y grupo B (n = 7) donde se aplicó termoterapia y estiramientos en la misma musculatura. Las variables estudiadas fueron: dolor menstrual, función sexual, calidad de vida, rango de abducción de cadera, fuerza muscular, resistencia del suelo pélvico y existencia de puntos gatillo miofasciales. Una fisioterapeuta realizó los tratamientos y otra las valoraciones, estando cegada la segunda. RESULTADOS: el grupo A obtuvo una diferencia clínica (1,6 puntos menos en EVA) y estadísticamente significativa del dolor (p = 0,018), frente al otro grupo (0,4 puntos, p > 0,05), así como una mejora en la calidad de vida (p < 0,05) del grupo A. No se hallaron cambios significativos en el resto de las variables. CONCLUSIÓN: existe un alivio significativo del dolor y mejora de la calidad de vida del grupo A. Se considera así que el tratamiento específico del síndrome de dolor miofascial puede presentar mayor eficacia clínica. Se concluye la necesidad de continuar esta investigación con una mayor muestra de participantes, con el fin de esclarecer la eficacia del tratamiento de fisioterapia para el resto de las variables estudiadas

The term dysmenorrhoea defines different symptoms that women can feel during menstruation, the most common being intense pain. Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is the combination of signs and symptoms caused by myofascial trigger points (MTP), at their site or at a distance. Therefore, the objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of a treatment for MTP in the abdominal, hip adductor and pelvic floor muscles, from a physiotherapeutic approach, regarding the following outcome measures: pain, sexual function, quality of life, strength and mobility in patients suffering from dysmenorrhoea. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Randomized pilot study. Participants were divided into two groups: A (n = 6), where dry needling and manual therapy was applied to the abdominal, hip adductor and pelvic floor muscles; and B (n = 7), where the participants received thermotherapy and stretching of these muscles. The outcome measures studied were menstrual pain, sexual function, quality of life, hip abduction range of motion, strength of the affected muscles, pelvic floor muscle endurance and finding myofascial trigger points. All the treatments were provided by the same physiotherapist, while a different physiotherapist carried out the evaluations blinded to each patient's group. RESULTS: in group A, a clinically (1.6 less in VAS) and statistically significant reduction (p = 0.018) in pain was observed in comparison with group B (.4 in VAS, p > 0.05). Quality of life also improved in the first group (p< 0.05). No further significant differences were found in the remaining outcome measures. CONCLUSIONS: a significant improvement was observed with regards to pain and quality of life in group A. Thus, we consider that specific treatment for MPS could be more clinically effective. We conclude that this research should be continued with a larger sample of participants, in order to clarify the efficacy of the physiotherapy treatment suggested for the remaining outcome measures

Eficacia y percepción del dolor en técnicas de estiramientos hold-relax y electroestimulación / Efficiency and Perception of Pain in Hold-Relax Stretching Techniques and Electrostimulation

Se analizó el efecto de la técnica de estiramiento HOLD RELAX sin (HR) y con electroestimulación (HR+EE) sobre la mejora y retención del rango de movimiento (ROM) activo (AROM) y pasivo (PROM) de cadera en flexión, y la percepción del dolor durante su aplicación. 42 deportistas fueron asignados a tres grupos: control, HR y HR+EE. El ROM fue medido con el test Straight-Leg-Raise antes, al finalizar el entrenamiento y trascurridas 2 semanas de su finalización. La valoración del dolor se realizó con la escala EVA. El ANOVA mostró un aumento significativo del PROM (p < 0,001) en HR y HR+EE, no así del AROM. No se observaron pérdidas significativas del PROM en la retención de sendos grupos. En cuanto al dolor, no existieron diferencias significativas en los valores de EVA al aplicar ambas técnicas. Tanto HR como HR+EE fueron bien toleradas en cuanto a la percepción del dolor

The objective of this study was to analyze the effect of the Hold-Relax stretching technique without (HR) and with electrostimulation (HR+EE) on the improvement and retention of active movement range (AROM) and passive (PROM) of hip in flexion, and the perception of pain during its application. 42 athletes were assigned to three groups: control, HR+EE and HR. The range of motion of the hip flexion was measured by test straight-leg-rise before, once completed and after 2 weeks of completion the training. Pain assessment was performed in all sessions with the EVA scale. The ANOVA showed a very significant increase in PROM (p < 0.001) in HR and HR+EE, but not in AROM. No significant PROM losses were observed in the retention of both groups. Regarding pain, there were no significant differences in EVA values when applying both techniques. Both HR and HR+EE were well tolerated in terms of pain perception

Effects of ultrasound and stretching on skeletal muscle contusion in rats: immunohistochemistry analysis / Efectos de ultrasonido y estiramiento en la contusión muscular esqueletal en ratas: análisis inmunohistoquímico

SUMMARY: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of stretching and therapeutic ultrasound (TUS) on desmin and laminin contents of rat muscle after contusion. Male Wistar rats (n = 35, 8-9 weeks of age, 271 ± 14g body weight) were divided into five groups: Control group (CG) (n= 03); Injured group (IG) (n= 8); Injured + ultrasound group (IUSG) (n= 8); Injured+stretching group (ISG) (n= 8); Injured +ultrasound + stretching group (IUSSG) (n= 8). The application of ultrasound started 72 hours after the contusion, using the 50 % pulsed mode, 0.5 W/cm2, 5 min, once a day, for five consecutive days. Passive manual stretching was started on the tenth day after injury, with four repetitions of 30 s each and 30 s rest between repetitions, once a day, five times per week, for a total of ten applications. After 22 days, the rats were euthanazied and the gastrocnemius of both limbs removed for desmin and laminin immunohistochemistry morphometric measurement. Analysis was conducted using ANOVA one way post-hoc Tukey to parametric data and Kruskall-Wallis for non-parametric data. The IUSSG animals showed a larger area of desmin than ISG (p<0.05). It was found a decrease in laminin comparing IUSG to IG. However, laminin area was higher in ISG than all groups (p<0.05). UST isolated or in combination with stretching influenced gastrocnemius regeneration in different manners. While stretching applied isolated enhanced gastrocnemius regeneration noticed by the increase in laminin area, in combination with TUS strengthened the muscle healing rising desmin area.

RESUMEN: El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar los efectos del estiramiento y la ecografía en los contenidos de desmina y laminina del músculo de rata después de la lesión. Ratas Wistar macho (n = 35, 8-9 semanas de edad, 271 ± 14 g de peso corporal) se dividieron en cinco grupos: grupo de control (CG) (n = 03); Grupo lesionado (GL) (n = 8); Lesionado + grupo de ultrasonido (LGU) (n= 8); Lesionado + grupo de estiramiento (LGE) (n = 8); Lesionado + ultrasonido + grupo de estiramiento (LUGE) (n = 8). La aplicación de ultrasonido comenzó 72 horas después de la lesión, usando el modo pulsado al 50 %, 0,5W / cm2, 5 min, una vez al día, durante cinco días consecutivos. El estiramiento manual pasivo se inició el décimo día después de la lesión, con cuatro repeticiones de 30 seg cada una y 30 seg de descanso entre repeticiones, una vez al día, cinco veces por semana, para un total de diez aplicaciones. Las ratas fueron sacrificadas después de 22 días, y se extrajo el músculo gastrocnemio de ambos miembros para la medición morfométrica de desmina y laminina a través de inmunohistoquímica. El análisis se realizó utilizando ANOVA unidireccional Tukey post-hoc para datos paramétricos y Kruskall-Wallis para datos no paramétricos. Los animales LUGE mostraron un área mayor de desmina que LGE (p <0,05). Se encontró una disminución en la laminina comparando LGU con GL. Sin embargo, el área de laminina fue mayor en LGE que en todos los grupos (p <0,05). El tratamiento con ultrasonido aislado o en combinación con estiramiento influyó en la regeneración del músculo gastrocnemio de diferentes maneras. Si bien el estiramiento aplicado, en combinación con tratamiento de ultrasonido, fortaleció el área de desmina, la regeneración del músculo gastrocnemio mejoró por el aumento en el área de laminina aumentando la curación muscular.

Yoga compared to non-exercise or physical therapy exercise on pain, disability, and quality of life for patients with chronic low back pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

BACKGROUND: Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a common and often disabling musculoskeletal condition. Yoga has been proven to be an effective therapy for chronic low back pain. However, there are still controversies about the effects of yoga at different follow-up periods and compared with other physical therapy exercises. OBJECTIVE: To critically compare the effects of yoga for patients with chronic low back pain on pain, disability, quality of life with non-exercise (e.g. usual care, education), physical therapy exercise. METHODS: This study was registered in PROSPERO, and the registration number was CRD42020159865. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of online databases included PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase which evaluated effects of yoga for patients with chronic low back pain on pain, disability, and quality of life were searched from inception time to November 1, 2019. Studies were eligible if they assessed at least one important outcome, namely pain, back-specific disability, quality of life. The Cochrane risk of bias tool was used to assess the methodological quality of included randomized controlled trials. The continuous outcomes were analyzed by calculating the mean difference (MD) or standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) according to whether combining outcomes measured on different scales or not. RESULTS: A total of 18 randomized controlled trials were included in this meta-analysis. Yoga could significantly reduce pain at 4 to 8 weeks (MD = -0.83, 95% CI = -1.19 to -0.48, p<0.00001, I2 = 0%), 3 months (MD = -0.43, 95% CI = -0.64 to -0.23, p<0.0001, I2 = 0%), 6 to 7 months (MD = -0.56, 95% CI = -1.02 to -0.11, p = 0.02, I2 = 50%), and was not significant in 12 months (MD = -0.52, 95% CI = -1.64 to 0.59, p = 0.36, I2 = 87%) compared with non-exercise. Yoga was better than non-exercise on disability at 4 to 8 weeks (SMD = -0.30, 95% CI = -0.51 to -0.10, p = 0.003, I2 = 0%), 3 months (SMD = -0.31, 95% CI = -0.45 to -0.18, p<0.00001, I2 = 30%), 6 months (SMD = -0.38, 95% CI = -0.53 to -0.23, p<0.00001, I2 = 0%), 12 months (SMD = -0.33, 95% CI = -0.54 to -0.12, p = 0.002, I2 = 9%). There was no significant difference on pain, disability compared with physical therapy exercise group. Furthermore, it suggested that there was a non-significant difference on physical and mental quality of life between yoga and any other interventions. CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis provided evidence from very low to moderate investigating the effectiveness of yoga for chronic low back pain patients at different time points. Yoga might decrease pain from short term to intermediate term and improve functional disability status from short term to long term compared with non-exercise (e.g. usual care, education). Yoga had the same effect on pain and disability as any other exercise or physical therapy. Yoga might not improve the physical and mental quality of life based on the result of a merging.

Modified rehabilitation exercises for mild cases of COVID-19.

BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by a new Betacoronavirus severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is currently a global pandemic. Gathered clinicopathological evidence in COVID-19 patients shows that alveoli injuries and interstitial changes are the major mechanisms of impaired O2/CO2 exchange. Few rehabilitation exercises concerning COVID-19 patients were reported. Here, we present a modified version of rehabilitation exercises based on the underlying mechanism of the disease to mild cases of COVID-19. These exercises aimed to improve the pulmonary function of patients and ease the expectoration process. Additionally, an essential branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) named acupressure was integrated into the exercises to facilitate the recovery and maintenance of pulmonary function. METHODS: From March 4, 2020 to May 5, 2020, a total of 60 COVID-19 patients who completed the full course of MRE were enrolled in this observational study. The diagnostic and classification criteria were based on the 7th edition of Diagnosis and Treatment Guideline of COVID-19 published by the National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China. We prospectively gathered patients' reported outcomes concerning respiration-related symptoms at four different time points, including: (I) at admission; (II) at the time of hospital discharge; (III) two weeks after discharge; (IV) four weeks after discharge. The reported respiratory symptoms included dry cough, productive cough, difficulty in expectoration, and dyspnea. RESULTS: In total, 60 confirmed mild COVID-19 cases were enrolled with a median age of 54 years old. The baseline prevalence for dry cough, productive cough, difficulty in expectoration, and dyspnea were 41.7%, 43.3%, 35.0%, and 50.0%, respectively. The pronounced decline in symptom prevalence was recorded over time. Interestingly, four weeks after discharge, we noticed a lower remission rate in productive cough and difficulty in expectoration. CONCLUSIONS: The modified rehabilitation exercises were retrieved from the Eight-Section Brocade, and are specifically designed for rehabilitation of COVID-19 patients at home or health facilities. Based on current findings on pronouncedly improved remission rate in respiratory symptoms, we recommend the MRE as suitable rehabilitation exercise to smooth respiration and ease the expectoration process in mild COVID-19 cases.

The effects of static stretching programs on muscle strength and muscle architecture of the medial gastrocnemius.

INTRODUCTION: Static stretching (SS) program are widely used in clinical and athletic settings. Many previous studies investigate the effect of SS program on muscle strength and muscle architecture (muscle thickness, and pennation angleh). However, no consensus has been reached about the effect of SS programs on muscle strength and muscle architecture. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of 6-week SS programs performed at different weekly frequencies on muscle strength, muscle thickness and pennation angle at different ankle joint positions. METHODS: A total of 24 healthy male volunteers were performed 6-week SS programs (2,160 s of SS: 360 s/week*6 weeks) and were randomized to a group that performed SS once a week, or a group that performed SS three times per week. Total time under stretching was equated between groups. The muscle strength (maximum voluntary isometric contraction) at three different ankle joints were assessed before and after the 6-week SS program. In addition, muscle thickness and pennation angle were assessed by ultrasonography before and after 6-week SS program. RESULTS: There were no significant changes in all variables before and after the 6-week SS program, regardless of weekly frequency (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that 6-week SS programs do not increase muscle strength or muscle architecture at different ankle joint positions, regardless of stretching frequency; however, no negative effect on these outcomes was observed, contrary to evidence on the immediate, detrimental effects of SS.

Acute effects of static stretching on Wingate testing in men.

BACKGROUND: Previous research has demonstrated a reduction in peak power via isokinetic dynamometry and power testing. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of static stretching (SS) on the Wingate test (WAnT). METHODS: Thirteen recreationally active males (mean age: 22.5±1.9 years, height: 172.5±8.4 cm, body mass: 83.4±24.6 kg) were tested for peak (PP), average (AP), and minimum (MP) power output using the WAnT. Two WAnT trials were completed by each subject on a Monark 894-E ergometer that was interfaced with a desktop computer. Participants completed a 5-minute warm-up on the cycle ergometer and then performed the pre-WAnT. Upon completion, the stretching protocol four static stretches were performed: one was participant self-administered and the remaining three by the investigator. Each stretch was held for 30 seconds and was repeated 4 times on each leg and repeated after 4 minutes of rest. RESULTS: Significant differences (P<0.05) were found for PP only for the pre- versus post-WAnT (802.6±207.6 vs. 768.8±199.7 W). CONCLUSIONS: Static stretching before performance of the WAnT demonstrated a significant decrease in peak power output. Based upon these results, it appears that SS decreases peak power output when performing an anaerobic capacity test on a cycle ergometer.

Effects of three different stretching protocols on hamstring muscle flexibility in professional soccer players: a randomized study.

BACKGROUND: The current study aimed to investigate and compare the influences of global postural rieducation techniques (GPR), stretching exercises on a whole-body vibration platform (WBV), and static stretching exercises on hamstrings flexibility in elite soccer players. METHODS: 24 professional soccer players were randomly assigned to either global postural re-education (N.=8), stretching on whole-body vibration group (N.=8) or static stretching (N.=8), during the first 4 weeks of the precompetitive season. Assessment of hamstring muscle flexibility was performed using a straight leg raise test. All participants were assessed three times: at baseline, at the end of the study protocol and 14 days after the end of the study protocol. RESULTS: The short-term increase in hamstring muscle flexibility was observed in all 3 groups, without significant differences among groups. However, after 14 days from the end of the interventions only the WBV group maintained the flexibility level achieved just at the end of the protocol with no significant changes in both legs whereas a significant decrease in the SLRT in GPR and SS groups, in right and left legs (GPR, P=0.002; P=0.015; SS, P=0.0001; P=0.0001), was observed. CONCLUSIONS: These results would suggest that GPR, static stretching on whole-body vibration and static stretching techniques all improve hamstring muscle flexibility, but only stretching on WBV maintains the effect over time in professional soccer players.

Compression of Myofascial Trigger Points With a Foam Roller or Ball for Exercise-induced Anterior Knee Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of compression of myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) with a foam roller or ball, combined with static stretching of knee muscles, on exercise-induced, anterior knee pain in fitness runners. DESIGN: The research team designed a randomized controlled trial. SETTING: The study took place in the Department of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Center of the School of Kinesiology at Shanghai University of Sport in Shanghai, China. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 80 participants, 28 males and 52 females with an average age of 37.2 ± 2.9 years, were recruited at the center. INTERVENTION: The participants were randomly assigned to one of 4 groups, with 20 participants in each group: (1) the MG+SG group, which received compression with a foam roller or ball (MG) and static stretching (SG); (2) the MG group, which received compression only; (3) the SG group static, which received static stretching only; or (4) the control group (CG), which attended a 30-min class about nutrition or exercise once a month and received no intervention. For the MG intervention, participants' MTrPs were compressed with a foam roller or ball for 30 minutes once every 5 days for 2 months. After each compression, the MG+SG group received static stretching immediately. OUTCOME MEASURES: A visual analog scale (VAS) and a participant's range of motion (ROM) of the knee were assessed at baseline, after 4 weeks of the intervention, immediately postintervention, and at a follow-up at 8 weeks postintervention. The effectiveness of the treatment in the different groups was also compared. RESULTS: Immediately postintervention, 18 participants (90%) in MG+SG group, 12 (60%) in MG group, and 8 (40%) in the SG group were pain free. Compared with those at baseline, the VAS scores of the MG+SG group significantly improved between baseline and postintervention and were unchanged at the eight-week follow-up. In all groups, the VAS scores and ROMs of the knee increased, but only the MG+SG group's values increased significantly. CONCLUSIONS: Compression of MTrPs with a foam roller or ball, combined with static stretching, was more effective than either the compression only or static stretching only.

El ejercicio físico en el embarazo y/o el posparto frente a la fatiga percibida / Physical exercise in pregnancy and / or postpartum in the face of perceived fatigue

Se realizó un análisis de la literatura cuyo objetivo principal fue evaluar cómo repercute la actividad física realizada por la mujer en la fatiga posparto. Se llevó a cabo una revisión sistemática de estudios de investigación cumpliendo con los criterios del protocolo de revisión Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Se realizaron búsquedas aplicando los criterios de inclusión en las siguientes bases de datos electrónicas; Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, Cuiden; y en el motor de búsqueda Google Académico; también se han realizado búsquedas inversas realizadas a través de la bibliografía procedente de los artículos encontrados. Se identificaron 2460 artículos que cumplían los criterios de inclusión. Al realizar una criba por duplicados, lectura de título y abstract de los artículos identificados, y posteriormente una lectura en profundidad de los artículos, se incluyeron en la presente revisión sistemática 13 artículos. Una vez analizados los artículos se observa en los resultados de los mismos que se pone de manifiesto la relación positiva que existe entre realizar actividad física durante el embarazo o el posparto y la reducción de los niveles de Fatiga Posparto

An analysis of the literature whose main objective was to evaluate how the physical activity carried out by women in postpartum fatigue was carried out. A systematic review of research studies was carried out, fulfilling the criteria of the review protocol Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyzes (PRISMA). We searched by applying the inclusion criteria in the following electronic databases; Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, Cuiden; and in the Google Scholar search engine; Inverse searches have also been carried out through the bibliography from the articles found. We identified 2460 articles that met the inclusion criteria. When carrying out a screening in duplicates, reading the title and abstract of the identified articles, and subsequently an in-depth reading of the articles, 13 articles were included in the present systematic review. Once the articles have been analyzed, the results show that there is a positive relationship between physical activity during pregnancy or postpartum and the reduction of Postpartum Fatigue levels

The acute and prolonged effects of 20-s static stretching on muscle strength and shear elastic modulus.

INTRODUCTION: Static stretching (SS) is commonly performed as part of warm-up routine. However, only few previous studies have reported on the effects of short-duration SS, which is often used in the sports field. The purpose of this study was to investigate the acute and prolonged effects of 20-s SS on isokinetic contraction muscle strength, range of motion (ROM), and the shear elastic modulus. METHOD: Twenty male volunteers participated in this study. The ROM and both concentric and eccentric contraction muscle strengths were measured using a dynamometer. In addition, the shear elastic modulus of medial gastrocnemius muscle in dominant leg was measured by ultrasonic shear wave elastography. The participants visited the laboratory on four occasions each separated by >3 days. The first visit was a familiarization trial, and the subsequent three visits included the following experimental conditions in a random order. All measurements were performed prior to and immediately after SS or 5 min and 10 min after 20-s SS. RESULTS: The results of this study showed that the ROM was significantly increased SS intervention in all conditions compared with prior to SS intervention. In addition, ROM was significantly higher post SS and 5 min after SS than 10 min after SS. However, there were no significant interaction effects for isokinetic contraction muscle strength and the shear elastic modulus. CONCLUSION: In the sports field, from the point of performance, a 20-s SS intervention could be a useful technique before exercise because it increases ROM and does not decrease maximum torque.

Effects of Modified Posterior Shoulder Stretching Exercises on Shoulder Mobility, Pain, and Dysfunction in Patients With Subacromial Impingement Syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Posterior shoulder stretching exercises (PSSEs) aim to reduce posterior shoulder tightness (PST). Position modification of traditional PSSEs has been suggested to minimize inadequate control of scapular and glenohumeral rotation, possibly leading to increased subacromial impingement. HYPOTHESIS: Modified PSSEs will have positive effects on shoulder mobility, pain, and dysfunction. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 1. METHODS: A total of 67 symptomatic patients with subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS) and shoulder internal rotation asymmetry were randomly assigned to 3 groups: modified cross-body stretch (MCS) (n = 22; treatment program + MCS), modified sleeper stretch (MSS) (n = 22; treatment program + MSS), and a control group (n = 23; treatment program consisting of only modalities, range of motion [ROM], and strength training but no PSSEs) for 4 weeks. Pain, PST, shoulder rotation ROM, and dysfunction were evaluated. RESULTS: Pain, PST, shoulder rotation ROM, function, and disability improved in all groups (P < 0.05). The MCS and MSS groups had better results compared with the control group with regard to pain with activity, internal rotation ROM, function, and disability (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference between the stretching groups (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: All treatments improved pain, shoulder mobility, function, and disability in patients with SIS. However, modified PSSEs in addition to a treatment program was superior to the treatment program alone (without PSSEs) in improving pain with activity, internal rotation ROM, and dysfunction. Moreover, stretching provided clinically significant improvements. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Modified PSSEs, in addition to a treatment program, are beneficial for patients with SIS. Both modified cross-body and sleeper stretches are safe and efficacious for improving shoulder mobility, pain, and dysfunction.

Stretching exercises combined with ischemic compression in pectoralis minor muscle with latent trigger points: A single-blind, randomized, controlled pilot trial.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Latent trigger points (LTrPs) in the pectoralis minor (PM) muscle lead to muscle tightness. This study aimed to investigate which type of stretching exercise used after ischemic compression (IC) was more effective on LTrPs in the PM muscle. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty participants with PM muscle tightness and an LTrP in the PM muscle were divided among groups 1 (IC with modified contract-relax proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching), 2 (IC with static stretching), 3 (IC with myofascial release) and 4 (no intervention). The PM muscle index (PMI), PM length (PML), rounded shoulder posture, pressure pain threshold, pulmonary function, and maximal respiratory pressure were evaluated. RESULTS: Improvement in the PMI and PML was found immediately after the intervention in groups 1 and 3 compared with baseline (p = 0.01). The overall group-by-time interaction in the repeated measures analysis of variance was significant for the PMI in favor of Group 1 (F1, 36 = 3.53, p = 0.02). CONCLUSION: IC may be followed by contract-relax PNF stretching to increase the length of PM muscle with LTrPs.

Immediate Effects of Intermittent Bilateral Ankle Plantar Flexors Static Stretching on Balance and Plantar Pressures.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to analyze the immediate effects of an intermittent plantar flexion static-stretching protocol on balance and plantar pressures. METHODS: The study included a sample size of 24 healthy participants (21 female and 3 male). Participants were 32.20 ± 8.08 years, 166.20 ± 8.43 cm, and 62.77 ± 9.52 kg. All participants performed an intermittent plantar flexion static-stretching protocol. Five sets (60 seconds intermittent stretch; 15 seconds for the rest time) of a passive plantar flexor stretching (70% to 90% of the point of discomfort) were performed. Static footprint analysis and a stabilometry analysis were performed before and after stretching. A P value < .05 with a CI of 95% was considered statistically significant for all tests. RESULTS: Intermittent ankle plantar static stretching resulted in a significantly greater forefoot surface contact area and lower rear foot medium and maximum plantar pressures. In addition, static stretching caused a lower displacement of the center of pressure for both eyes open and eyes closed conditions. CONCLUSION: An intermittent plantar flexor static-stretching protocol improved balance and reduced rear foot plantar pressures (maximum and medium pressures).

Does stretch training induce muscle hypertrophy in humans? A review of the literature.

Stretch training is widely used in a variety of fitness-related capacities such as increasing joint range of motion, preventing contractures and alleviating injuries. Moreover, some researches indicate that stretch training may induce muscle hypertrophy; however, studies on the topic have been primarily relegated to animal and in vitro models. The purpose of this brief review was to evaluate whether stretch training is a viable strategy to induce muscle hypertrophy in humans. An extensive literature search was performed using PubMed/MEDLINE, SciELO and Scopus databases, using terms related to stretching and muscle hypertrophy. Only human trials that evaluated changes in measures of muscle size or architecture following training protocols that it was performed stretching exercises were selected for inclusion. Of the 10 studies identified, 3 observed some significantly positive effects of stretch training on muscle structure. Intriguingly, in these studies, the stretching was carried out with an apparatus that aided in its performance, or with an external overload. In all studies, the subjects performed stretching at their own self-determined range of motion, and no effect was observed. Of the 5 available studies that integrated stretching into a resistance training programme, 2 applied the stretching in the interset rest period and were the ones that showed enhanced muscle growth. In conclusion, passive, low-intensity stretch does not appear to confer beneficial changes in muscle size and architecture; alternatively, albeit limited evidence suggests that when stretching is done with a certain degree of tensile strain (particularly when loaded, or added between active muscle contractions) may elicit muscle hypertrophy.

Chronic Effects of Static and Dynamic Stretching on Hamstrings Eccentric Strength and Functional Performance: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Barbosa, GM, Trajano, GS, Dantas, GAF, Silva, BR, and Vieira, WHB. Chronic effects of static and dynamic stretching on hamstrings eccentric strength and functional performance: A randomized controlled trial. J Strength Cond Res 34(7): 2031-2039, 2020-The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of static or dynamic stretching training program on hamstrings eccentric peak torque and functional performance. Forty-five active healthy men were randomly allocated into 3 groups (n = 15 per group): no stretching (control), static stretching (3 sets of 30 seconds), and dynamic stretching (3 sets of 30 repetitions). Static and dynamic stretching protocols on the hamstring muscles were performed 3 times a week until complete 10 sessions. Isokinetic knee flexor eccentric peak torque (60°·s), triple hop distance, and modified 20-m sprint time were assessed in a random order before and after stretching training. A mixed-design analysis of variance was performed, with an alpha level of 0.05. There was a significant decrease of eccentric peak torque (p ≤ 0.0001, -15.4 ± 10.4%, within-group effect size: 1.03) after static stretching training. The static stretching training reduced eccentric torque when compared with no stretching (-7.6 ± 21.7%, between-group effect size: 0.50) and dynamic stretching (-7.8 ± 29.8%, between-group effect size: 0.51). Moreover, the reached distance on triple hop test was also reduced after static stretching protocol (p = 0.009, -3.7 ± 4.1%, within-group effect size: 0.29). These findings suggest that static stretching training is sufficient to produce meaningful reductions on hamstrings eccentric torque and functional performance. Based on the results of this study, caution should be taken when prescribing of static stretching training in isolation when the purpose is to improve performance, and indirectly, to prevent hamstring strain injuries due to its possible negative effects on hopping performance and knee flexor eccentric torque.

Muscular resistance, hypertrophy and strength training equally reduce adiposity, inflammation and insulin resistance in mice with diet-induced obesity.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of three types of muscular resistance training on adiposity, inflammation levels and insulin activity in Swiss mice with fat-rich diet-induced obesity. METHODS: Lean and obese male Swiss mice were selected and allocated to one of eight groups comprising eight mice each, as follows: standard diet + no training; standard diet + muscular resistance training; standard diet + hypertrophy training; standard diet + strength training; high-fat diet + no training; high-fat diet + muscular resistance training; high-fat diet + hypertrophy training; high-fat diet + strength training. The training protocol consisted of stair climbing for a 10-week period. Blood samples were collected for lactate analysis, glucose level measurement and insulin tolerance test. After euthanasia, adipose tissues were removed and weighed for adiposity index determination. Fragments of epididymal adipose tissue were then embedded for histological analysis or homogenized for tumor necrosis factor alpha level determination using the ELISA method. RESULTS: Ausency of differences in total training volume and blood lactate levels overall emphasize the similarity between the different resistance training protocols. Body weight loss, reduced adipocyte area and lower adiposity index were observed in trained obese mice, regardless of training modality. Different training protocols also improved insulin sensitivity and reduced inflammation levels. CONCLUSION: Resistance training protocols were equally effective in reducing body fat, inflammation levels and insulin resistance in obese mice.

Osgood-Schlatter disease: a 2020 update of a common knee condition in children.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Osgood-Schlatter disease (OSD) is one of the most common causes for anterior knee pain in children and adolescents resulting from a traction apophysitis of the tibial tubercle. While a peak in boys aged 12-15 years old was well documented, there seems to be no difference in sex distribution nowadays. This may result from increased participation of young females in high-impact sports. This review provides an up-to-date account on contemporary prophylaxis as well as diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. RECENT FINDINGS: Numerous studies have examined risk factors for OSD. These include body weight, muscle tightness, muscle weakness during knee extension and flexibility of hamstring muscles. In particular, shortening of the rectus femoris may substantially alter biomechanical functions of the knee. Conservative management remains successful in over 90% of patients. However, if disabling symptoms and pain persistent after physeal closure, operative treatment may be necessary. SUMMARY: OSD is a mostly self-limiting apophysitis of the tibial tubercle and the adjacent patella tendon in young active patients with open physis. Prevention strategies include quadriceps and hamstring stretching and therefore should be implemented in everyday practice routines for children who partake in regular sports activities.