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Brandl A, Acikalin E, Bartsch K, Wilke J, Schleip R. Reliability and validity of an app-assisted tissue compliance meter in measuring tissue stiffness on a phantom model. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17122. [PMID: 38464760 PMCID: PMC10924762 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Most methods for soft tissue stiffness assessment require high financial resources, significant technical effort, or extensive therapist training. The PACT Sense device was developed to be used in a wide range of applications and user groups. However, to date, there are no data on its validity and reliability. The aim of this study was to investigate the validity and reliability of the PACT device. Methods A polyurethane phantom tissue model (PTM) mimicking the mechanical properties of the fascia profunda and the erector spinae muscle was used. Stiffness measurements with PACT were conducted by two independent investigators. For construct validity, correlations were calculated between the known stiffness of the PTM and values obtained with PACT. For concurrent validity, we determined the association between the PACT values and additional measurements with the established MyotonPRO device. To estimate interrater and intrarater (two measurements with an interval of 7 days) reliability, we used the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Results Correlation analysis (PTM/PACT) revealed very high concurrent validity (r = 0.99; p < 0.001), construct validity (PACT/MyotonPRO) was 0.87, p < 0.001. Both, interrater reliability (ICC = 0.85; p = 0.036) and intrarater reliability were good (ICC = 0.89; p < 0.001). Conclusions The PACT provides valid and reliable stiffness measurements in tissue phantoms. Further studies in humans are needed to confirm its physiometric properties under in vivo conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Brandl
- Department of Sports Medicine, Institute for Human Movement Science, Faculty for Psychology and Human Movement Science, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Conservative and Rehabilitative Orthopedics, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department for Medical Professions, Diploma Hochschule, Bad Sooden-Allendorf, Germany
| | - Eda Acikalin
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Conservative and Rehabilitative Orthopedics, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Faculty of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Katja Bartsch
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Conservative and Rehabilitative Orthopedics, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Sport Science and Sport, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jan Wilke
- Department of Movement Sciences, University of Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt, Austria
| | - Robert Schleip
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Conservative and Rehabilitative Orthopedics, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department for Medical Professions, Diploma Hochschule, Bad Sooden-Allendorf, Germany
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Wendt M, Waszak M. Assessment of the stiffness of the upper trapezius muscle in a group of asymptomatic people with cervical spine rotation asymmetry. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298544. [PMID: 38386652 PMCID: PMC10883562 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the relationship between the stiffness of the upper trapezius muscle and the range of rotational movement of the cervical spine. A total of 60 right-handed asymptomatic students participated in the study. Participants (N = 22) characterised by asymmetry in rotational movements were selected for the experimental group. A difference of ≥10° between right and left rotation of the cervical spine was considered asymmetrical. The control group (N = 38) included participants whose rotation difference was < 10°. Belonging to the experimental or control group did not significantly differentiate trapezius muscle stiffness. The rotation side differentiated the stiffness of the right and left trapezius muscles only in the group of people with rotational movement asymmetry. There were high correlation coefficients between right cervical rotation and the stiffness of the muscle on the right side, and between rotation to the left and the stiffness of the muscle on the left side. There is a relationship between the stiffness of the right and left upper trapezius muscles and the range of right and left rotational motion of the cervical spine. Stiffness of the upper trapezius correlates more strongly with rotation to the side on which the muscle lies than to the opposite side. Increased stiffness of the upper trapezius muscle on the side of limited cervical spine rotation is likely to be determined by the muscle fibre stretching mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Wendt
- Department of Medical Biology, Poznan University of Physical Education, Poznań, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Waszak
- Department of Medical Biology, Poznan University of Physical Education, Poznań, Poland
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Baroni F, Schleip R, Arcuri L, Consorti G, D’Alessandro G, Zegarra-Parodi R, Vitali AM, Tramontano M, Lunghi C. Functional Neuromyofascial Activity: Interprofessional Assessment to Inform Person-Centered Participative Care-An Osteopathic Perspective. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2886. [PMID: 37958030 PMCID: PMC10667998 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11212886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Health professionals and bodyworkers may be pivotal in promoting prevention programs, providing tailored advice and guidance to patients' adherence to self-care strategies, such as physical activity. Contemporary evidence encourages manual therapists to involve patients in decision-making and treatment procedures integrating passive and active approaches in treatment planning. This manuscript provides a definition and applications of neuromyofascial movement patterns, discusses the significance of functional assessment, and gives an example of clinical applications in the osteopathic field to highlight how this assessment can promote interdisciplinarity. Methods: The reporting framework used in the current manuscript followed guidelines for writing a commentary. Results: The manuscript highlights the crucial role that the neuromyofascial system plays in human movement and overall well-being and the importance of a functional neuromyofascial activity assessment in the context of person-centered participative care. Conclusions: Understanding individual neuromyofascial patterns could help healthcare practitioners, movement specialists, and bodyworkers in tailoring treatment plans, meeting patients' unique needs, and promoting a more effective personalized approach to care. The current perspective could spark debates within the professional community and provide a research roadmap for developing an evidence-informed interprofessional framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Baroni
- BMS Formation, 75116 Paris, France; (F.B.); (C.L.)
- Osteopatia Lunghi-Baroni Private Practice, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Robert Schleip
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Conservative and Rehabilitative Orthopedics, Technical University of Munich, 80333 Munich, Germany;
| | - Lorenzo Arcuri
- Clinical-Based Human Research Department, Foundation COME Collaboration, 65121 Pescara, Italy
| | - Giacomo Consorti
- Education Department of Osteopathy, Istituto Superiore di Osteopatia, 20126 Milan, Italy
| | - Giandomenico D’Alessandro
- Clinical-Based Human Research Department, Foundation COME Collaboration, 65121 Pescara, Italy
- Centre pour l’Etude, la Recherche et la Diffusion Ostéopathiques “C.E.R.D.O.”, 00199 Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Marco Tramontano
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero, Universitaria di Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Christian Lunghi
- BMS Formation, 75116 Paris, France; (F.B.); (C.L.)
- Osteopatia Lunghi-Baroni Private Practice, 00146 Rome, Italy
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Campi G, Ricci A, Costa N, Genovesi F, Branca JJV, Paternostro F, Della Posta D. Dynamic Correlations and Disorder in the Masticatory Musculature Network. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2107. [PMID: 38004247 PMCID: PMC10672239 DOI: 10.3390/life13112107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which affect millions of people worldwide, have multiple etiological factors that make an accurate diagnosis and effective treatments difficult. As a consequence, the gold standard diagnostic criteria for TMJ disorders remain elusive and often depend on subjective decisions. AIM In this context, the lack of a non-invasive quantitative methodology capable of assessing the functional physiological state and, consequently, identifying risk indicators for the early diagnosis of TMJ disorders must be tackled and resolved. METHODOLOGY In this work, we have studied the biomechanics and viscoelastic properties of the functional masticatory system by a non-invasive approach involving 52 healthy subjects, analysed by statistical-physics analysis applied to myotonic measurements on specific points of the masticatory system designing a TMJ network composed of 17 nodes and 20 links. RESULTS We find that the muscle tone and viscoelasticity of a specific cycle linking frontal, temporal, and mandibular nodes of the network play a prominent role in the physiological functionality of the system. At the same time, the functional state is characterised by a landscape of nearly degenerated levels of elasticity in all links of the network, making this parameter critically distributed and deviating from normal behaviour. CONCLUSIONS Time evolution and dynamic correlations between biomechanics and viscoelastic parameters measured on the different cycles of the network provide a quantitative framework associated with the functional state of the masticatory system. Our results are expected to contribute to enriching the taxonomy of this system, primarily based on clinical observations, patient symptoms, and expert consensus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Campi
- Institute of Crystallography, CNR, Via Salaria Km 29.300, 00015 Monterotondo, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Ricci
- Duferco Corporate Innovation, Via Trevano 2A, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland;
| | - Nicola Costa
- The Anatomical Network APS, Via Fermo 2c, 00182 Rome, Italy; (N.C.); (D.D.P.)
| | | | - Jacopo Junio Valerio Branca
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | - Ferdinando Paternostro
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | - Daniele Della Posta
- The Anatomical Network APS, Via Fermo 2c, 00182 Rome, Italy; (N.C.); (D.D.P.)
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Devantéry K, Morin M, Grimard J, Gaudreault N. Effects of a Myofascial Technique on the Stiffness and Thickness of the Thoracolumbar Fascia and Lumbar Erector Spinae Muscles in Adults with Chronic Low Back Pain: A Randomized before-and-after Experimental Study. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:bioengineering10030332. [PMID: 36978723 PMCID: PMC10045407 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10030332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The thoracolumbar fascia (TLF) may be a pain generator, given its rich innervation. Structural and biomechanical changes have also been documented in adults with chronic non-specific low back pain (LBP). Myofascial techniques (MFTs) are commonly used in manual therapy and are hypothesized to reduce tissue stiffness and pain. However, evidence for these effects is limited. The objective of this study was to evaluate the immediate effects of a standardized MFT compared to a simulated MFT on: (1) the stiffness of the TLF and erector spinae muscles (shear-wave sonoelastography), (2) the thickness of the TLF (B-mode ultrasound), and (3) pain intensity (numerical rating scale). Forty-nine participants with chronic non-specific LBP were included in a randomized before-and-after experimental study. Outcome measures were collected before (T0) and immediately after the intervention (T1). Pain intensity was also assessed on day two (T2) and seven (T7). The MFT group showed a significant decrease in left erector spinae muscle stiffness and left TLF thickness compared to the simulated group. In addition, there was a significant reduction in pain intensity in the MFT group compared to the simulated group at T1 and T2. The results of this study suggest that MFT results in immediate tissue changes and transient pain reduction in patients with LBP.
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Proulx L, Brizzolara K, Thompson M, Wang-Price S, Rodriguez P, Koppenhaver S. Women with Chronic Pelvic Pain Demonstrate Increased Lumbopelvic Muscle Stiffness Compared to Asymptomatic Controls. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2023; 32:239-247. [PMID: 36450120 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2022.0198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Although lumbopelvic muscle stiffness is commonly clinically assessed in women with chronic pelvic pain (CPP), it has not been objectively quantified in this population, and its association with other pain-related impairments has not yet been established. Objective: To compare superficial lumbopelvic muscle stiffness in women with and without CPP. In addition, pressure pain threshold (PPT) was compared between groups and the associations between muscle stiffness and PPT were assessed in women with CPP. Study Design: Case-control. Methods: Muscle stiffness and PPT of 11 lumbopelvic muscles were assessed in 149 women with CPP and 48 asymptomatic women. Subjective outcome measures, including pelvic floor function, health history, and psychosocial outcomes, were collected before muscle stiffness and PPT measurements. Analysis of covariance was used to compare muscle stiffness differences between groups, and independent t-tests were used to compare PPT between groups. Associations between measurements of PPT and muscle stiffness were calculated using correlation analysis. Results: Five of the 11 muscles measured were significantly stiffer in women with CPP than those without CPP (p < 0.05). PPT was significantly decreased in all muscles measured in women with CPP; however, there was not a significant association between muscle stiffness and PPT in women with CPP. Conclusion: The study identified the abdominal lumbopelvic muscles that have increased stiffness in women with CPP compared to asymptomatic women. In addition, muscle stiffness and PPT are two distinct impairments within this population. The results suggest that women with CPP have peripheral muscle impairments, which may be addressed without intravaginal or intrarectal intervention. Clinical Trial Registration: NCT04851730.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurel Proulx
- School of Physical Therapy, Rueckert-Hartman College of Health Professions, Regis University, Denver, Colorado, USA
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Assessing reliability and validity of different stiffness measurement tools on a multi-layered phantom tissue model. Sci Rep 2023; 13:815. [PMID: 36646734 PMCID: PMC9842673 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-27742-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Changes in the mechanical properties (i.e., stiffness) of soft tissues have been linked to musculoskeletal disorders, pain conditions, and cancer biology, leading to a rising demand for diagnostic methods. Despite the general availability of different stiffness measurement tools, it is unclear as to which are best suited for different tissue types and the related measurement depths. The study aimed to compare different stiffness measurement tools' (SMT) reliability on a multi-layered phantom tissue model (MPTM). A polyurethane MPTM simulated the four layers of the thoracolumbar region: cutis (CUT), subcutaneous connective tissue (SCT), fascia profunda (FPR), and erector spinae (ERS), with varying stiffness parameters. Evaluated stiffness measurement tools included Shore Durometer, Semi-Electronic Tissue Compliance Meter (STCM), IndentoPRO, MyotonPRO, and ultrasound imaging. Measurements were made by two independent, blinded examiners. Shore Durometer, STCM, IndentoPRO, and MyotonPRO reliably detected stiffness changes in three of the four MPTM layers, but not in the thin (1 mm thick) layer simulating FPR. With ultrasound imaging, only stiffness changes in layers thicker than 3 mm could be measured reliably. Significant correlations ranging from 0.70 to 0.98 (all p < 0.01) were found. The interrater reliability ranged from good to excellent (ICC(2,2) = 0.75-0.98). The results are encouraging for researchers and clinical practitioners as the investigated stiffness measurement tools are easy-to-use and comparatively affordable.
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Plehuna A, Green DA, Amirova LE, Tomilovskaya ES, Rukavishnikov IV, Kozlovskaya IB. Dry immersion induced acute low back pain and its relationship with trunk myofascial viscoelastic changes. Front Physiol 2022; 13:1039924. [PMID: 36311233 PMCID: PMC9606241 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1039924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Microgravity induces spinal elongation and Low Back Pain (LBP) but the pathophysiology is unknown. Changes in paraspinal muscle viscoelastic properties may play a role. Dry Immersion (DI) is a ground-based microgravity analogue that induces changes in m. erector spinae superficial myofascial tissue tone within 2 h. This study sought to determine whether bilateral m. erector spinae tone, creep, and stiffness persist beyond 2 h; and if such changes correlate with DI-induced spinal elongation and/or LBP. Ten healthy males lay in the DI bath at the Institute of Biomedical Problems (Moscow, Russia) for 6 h. Bilateral lumbar (L1, L4) and thoracic (T11, T9) trunk myofascial tone, stiffness and creep (MyotonPRO), and subjective LBP (0-10 NRS) were recorded before DI, after 1h, 6 h of DI, and 30min post. The non-standing spinal length was evaluated on the bath lifting platform using a bespoke stadiometer before and following DI. DI significantly modulated m. erector spinae viscoelastic properties at L4, L1, T11, and T9 with no effect of laterality. Bilateral tissue tone was significantly reduced after 1 and 6 h DI at L4, L1, T11, and T9 to a similar extent. Stiffness was also reduced by DI at 1 h but partially recovered at 6 h for L4, L1, and T11. Creep was increased by DI at 1 h, with partial recovery at 6 h, although only T11 was significant. All properties returned to baseline 30 min following DI. Significant spinal elongation (1.17 ± 0.20 cm) with mild (at 1 h) to moderate (at 6 h) LBP was induced, mainly in the upper lumbar and lower thoracic regions. Spinal length increases positively correlated (Rho = 0.847, p = 0.024) with middle thoracic (T9) tone reduction, but with no other stiffness or creep changes. Spinal length positively correlated (Rho = 0.557, p = 0.039) with Max LBP; LBP failed to correlate with any m. erector spinae measured parameters. The DI-induced bilateral m. erector spinae tone, creep, and stiffness changes persist beyond 2 h. Evidence of spinal elongation and LBP allows suggesting that the trunk myofascial tissue changes could play a role in LBP pathogenesis observed in real and simulated microgravity. Further study is warranted with longer duration DI, assessment of IVD geometry, and vertebral column stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasija Plehuna
- King’s College London, Centre of Human & Applied Physiological Sciences, London, United Kingdom
- Laboratory of Gravitational Physiology of the Sensorimotor System, Institute of Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - David Andrew Green
- King’s College London, Centre of Human & Applied Physiological Sciences, London, United Kingdom
- Space Medicine Team, HRE-OM, European Astronaut Centre, European Space Agency, Cologne, Germany
- KBRwyle Laboratories GmbH, Cologne, Germany
| | - Liubov E. Amirova
- Laboratory of Gravitational Physiology of the Sensorimotor System, Institute of Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena S. Tomilovskaya
- Laboratory of Gravitational Physiology of the Sensorimotor System, Institute of Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ilya V. Rukavishnikov
- Laboratory of Gravitational Physiology of the Sensorimotor System, Institute of Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Inessa B. Kozlovskaya
- Laboratory of Gravitational Physiology of the Sensorimotor System, Institute of Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
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Bohlen L, Schwarze J, Richter J, Gietl B, Lazarov C, Kopyakova A, Brandl A, Schmidt T. Effect of osteopathic techniques on human resting muscle tone in healthy subjects using myotonometry: a factorial randomized trial. Sci Rep 2022; 12:16953. [PMID: 36217012 PMCID: PMC9551048 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-20452-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are highly prevalent, burdensome, and putatively associated with an altered human resting muscle tone (HRMT). Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is commonly and effectively applied to treat MSDs and reputedly influences the HRMT. Arguably, OMT may modulate alterations in HRMT underlying MSDs. However, there is sparse evidence even for the effect of OMT on HRMT in healthy subjects. A 3 × 3 factorial randomised trial was performed to investigate the effect of myofascial release (MRT), muscle energy (MET), and soft tissue techniques (STT) on the HRMT of the corrugator supercilii (CS), superficial masseter (SM), and upper trapezius muscles (UT) in healthy subjects in Hamburg, Germany. Participants were randomised into three groups (1:1:1 allocation ratio) receiving treatment, according to different muscle-technique pairings, over the course of three sessions with one-week washout periods. We assessed the effect of osteopathic techniques on muscle tone (F), biomechanical (S, D), and viscoelastic properties (R, C) from baseline to follow-up (primary objective) and tested if specific muscle-technique pairs modulate the effect pre- to post-intervention (secondary objective) using the MyotonPRO (at rest). Ancillary, we investigate if these putative effects may differ between the sexes. Data were analysed using descriptive (mean, standard deviation, and quantiles) and inductive statistics (Bayesian ANOVA). 59 healthy participants were randomised into three groups and two subjects dropped out from one group (n = 20; n = 20; n = 19-2). The CS produced frequent measurement errors and was excluded from analysis. OMT significantly changed F (-0.163 [0.060]; p = 0.008), S (-3.060 [1.563]; p = 0.048), R (0.594 [0.141]; p < 0.001), and C (0.038 [0.017]; p = 0.028) but not D (0.011 [0.017]; p = 0.527). The effect was not significantly modulated by muscle-technique pairings (p > 0.05). Subgroup analysis revealed a significant sex-specific difference for F from baseline to follow-up. No adverse events were reported. OMT modified the HRMT in healthy subjects which may inform future research on MSDs. In detail, MRT, MET, and STT reduced the muscle tone (F), decreased biomechanical (S not D), and increased viscoelastic properties (R and C) of the SM and UT (CS was not measurable). However, the effect on HRMT was not modulated by muscle-technique interaction and showed sex-specific differences only for F.Trial registration German Clinical Trial Register (DRKS00020393).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Bohlen
- Osteopathic Research Institute, Osteopathie Schule Deutschland, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Jonah Schwarze
- Osteopathic Research Institute, Osteopathie Schule Deutschland, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jannik Richter
- Osteopathie Schule Deutschland, Hamburg, Germany
- Dresden International University, Dresden, Germany
| | - Bernadette Gietl
- Osteopathie Schule Deutschland, Hamburg, Germany
- Dresden International University, Dresden, Germany
| | - Christian Lazarov
- Osteopathie Schule Deutschland, Hamburg, Germany
- Dresden International University, Dresden, Germany
| | - Anna Kopyakova
- Erasmus School of Economics, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andreas Brandl
- Osteopathic Research Institute, Osteopathie Schule Deutschland, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tobias Schmidt
- Osteopathic Research Institute, Osteopathie Schule Deutschland, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
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Li Y, Yu J, Zhang J, Zhang Z, Wang X. Quantifying the stiffness of lumbar erector spinae during different positions among participants with chronic low back pain. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0270286. [PMID: 35749429 PMCID: PMC9231815 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The purposes of this study were to (1) detect the intra- and inter-reliabilities of the lumbar erector spinae stiffness by MyotonPRO among participants with chronic lower back pain (CLBP); (2) compare the muscle stiffness between pain and non-pain sides during different positions; (3) explore the correlation between intensity of pain and muscle stiffness. Design Twenty participants with CLBP were recruited and the stiffness measurements were carried out by two experienced physiotherapists (operators Ⅰ and Ⅱ). Each participant was evaluated by the operatorⅠ in different postures (static prone and sitting). After a 5-day interval, the same participant was reassessed by the operatorⅠ in the static prone posture. For the inter-rater reliability test, each participant was quantified by both operators once, with 30 minutes between the measurements on the same day. The intensity of pain was evaluated using a 0–10 visual analog scale (VAS). Results The intra- and inter-rater reliabilities were excellent (ICC = 0.88–0.99). The MDC values ranged from 25.03 to 86.26 N/m. Examples of Bland-Altman plots showed good agreement. The erector spinae stiffness on the painful sides was higher with a marked increase in the sitting position (P < .05) when compared with the non-painful side. However, there was no significant difference in the prone position (P > .05). The intensity of pain among adults with CLBP was not associated with muscle stiffness of the lumbar erector spinae muscle. Conclusions Our findings indicated that the MyotonPRO is a feasible device in quantifying the stiffness of the lumbar erector spinae muscle in patients with CLBP. Meanwhile, the erector spinae stiffness on the painful sides was higher in the sitting when compared with the non-painful side.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yapeng Li
- Rehabilitation Therapy Center, Luoyang Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China
| | - Jiafeng Yu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Institute of Rehabilitation and Health Care, Hunan Traditional Chinese Medical College, Hunan, China
| | - Zhijie Zhang
- Rehabilitation Therapy Center, Luoyang Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China
- * E-mail:
| | - Xueqiang Wang
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
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Melo ASC, Cruz EB, Vilas-Boas JP, Sousa ASP. Scapular Dynamic Muscular Stiffness Assessed through Myotonometry: A Narrative Review. SENSORS 2022; 22:s22072565. [PMID: 35408180 PMCID: PMC9002787 DOI: 10.3390/s22072565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Several tools have been used to assess muscular stiffness. Myotonometry stands out as an accessible, handheld, and easy to use tool. The purpose of this review was to summarize the psychometric properties and methodological considerations of myotonometry and its applicability in assessing scapular muscles. Myotonometry seems to be a reliable method to assess several muscles stiffness, as trapezius. This method has been demonstrated fair to moderate correlation with passive stiffness measured by shear wave elastography for several muscles, as well as with level of muscle contraction, pinch and muscle strength, Action Research Arm Test score and muscle or subcutaneous thickness. Myotonometry can detect scapular muscles stiffness differences between pre- and post-intervention in painful conditions and, sometimes, between symptomatic and asymptomatic subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana S. C. Melo
- Center for Rehabilitation Research—Human Movement System (Re)habilitation Area, Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health, Polytechnic of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 400, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
- Research Centre in Physical Activity, Health and Leisure, Faculty of Sport, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido Costa, 91, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
- Porto Biomechanics Laboratory (LABIOMEP-UP), University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido Costa, 91, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal;
- Center for Interdisciplinary Applied Research in Health, School of Health, Setubal Polytechnic Institute, Campus do IPS Estefanilha, 2914-503 Setubal, Portugal
| | - Eduardo B. Cruz
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health, Setubal Polytechnic Institute, Campus do IPS Estefanilha, 2914-503 Setubal, Portugal;
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João Paulo Vilas-Boas
- Porto Biomechanics Laboratory (LABIOMEP-UP), University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido Costa, 91, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal;
- Centre of Research, Education, Innovation and Intervention in Sport (CIFI2D), Faculty of Sport, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido Costa, 91, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
| | - Andreia S. P. Sousa
- Center for Rehabilitation Research—Human Movement System (Re)habilitation Area, Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health, Polytechnic of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 400, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
- Correspondence: or
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12
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Wu Z, Ye X, Ye Z, Hong K, Chen Z, Wang Y, Li C, Li J, Huang J, Zhu Y, Lu Y, Liu W, Xu X. Asymmetric Biomechanical Properties of the Paravertebral Muscle in Elderly Patients With Unilateral Chronic Low Back Pain: A Preliminary Study. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:814099. [PMID: 35223786 PMCID: PMC8866935 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.814099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Clinical incidences of chronic low back pain among the elderly are increasing. However, studies have not fully elucidated on changes in biomechanical properties of paravertebral muscles in patients with unilateral chronic low back pain. We evaluated the changes in biomechanical properties of painful and non-painful paravertebral muscles in elderly patients with unilateral chronic low back pain.Methods: Biomechanical properties of paravertebral muscles, including muscle tone and stiffness, in elderly patients with unilateral chronic low back pain were measured using MyotonPRO. Lumbar Lordosis and Sacral Slope were measured by magnetic resonance imaging. Cross-sectional areas of paravertebral muscles were evaluated using ImageJ software version 1.53. Chronic low back pain severity was assessed by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores. The correlations between VAS scores, ODI scores, Lumbar Lordosis, Sacral Slope, cross-sectional areas (painful side), disease duration, and biomechanical properties of paravertebral muscles in the painful side were analyzed.Results: A total of 60 elderly patients with unilateral chronic low back pain were enrolled in this study. The muscle tone and stiffness of paravertebral muscles on the painful side were significantly higher than those on the non-painful side (p < .05). Cross-sectional areas of paravertebral muscles on the painful side at the L3 level were smaller than those of the non-painful side (p < .05). The VAS scores and ODI scores were significantly positively correlated with muscle tone and stiffness of paravertebral muscles on the painful side (p < .05 and p < .01, respectively). There were no significant correlations between disease duration, cross-sectional areas (painful side), Lumbar Lordosis, or Sacral Slope and muscle tone and stiffness of paravertebral muscles on the painful side (p > .05).Conclusion: In elderly patients with unilateral chronic low back pain, muscle tone and stiffness of paravertebral muscles on the painful side are higher than for those on the non-painful side. The asymmetry of biomechanical properties of paravertebral muscles is associated with severity of chronic low back pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zugui Wu
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiangling Ye
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zixuan Ye
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kunhao Hong
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Second Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zehua Chen
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Wang
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Congcong Li
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junyi Li
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinyou Huang
- Guangdong Second Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yue Zhu
- Baishui Health Center, Qujing, China
| | - Yanyan Lu
- Luoyang Orthopedic Hospital Of Henan Province (Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province), Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Xuemeng Xu, ; Wengang Liu, ; Yanyan Lu,
| | - Wengang Liu
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Second Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Xuemeng Xu, ; Wengang Liu, ; Yanyan Lu,
| | - Xuemeng Xu
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Second Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Xuemeng Xu, ; Wengang Liu, ; Yanyan Lu,
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Alcaraz-Clariana S, García-Luque L, Garrido-Castro JL, Carmona-Pérez C, Rodrigues-de-Souza DP, Fernández-de-las-Peñas C, Alburquerque-Sendín F. Influence of Spinal Movements Associated with Physical Evaluation on Muscle Mechanical Properties of the Lumbar Paraspinal in Subjects with Acute Low Back Pain. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:302. [PMID: 35204392 PMCID: PMC8870934 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12020302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
This research aimed to identify changes in muscle mechanical properties (MMPs) when a standardized sequence of movements is performed and to determine the influence of acute low back pain (LBP) and age on the MMPs. Socio-demographic, clinical variables and MMPs were collected in 33 patients with LBP and 33 healthy controls. A 2 × 2 × 2 (group × age × time) analysis of variance (ANOVA) mixed model was used to determine the effect of the study factors on the different MMPs. There were no significant triple interactions. After the movements, tone and stiffness increased 0.37 Hz and 22.75 N/m, respectively, in subjects <35 years, independent of their clinical status. Relaxation showed differences by age in healthy subjects and creep in LBP subjects. Furthermore, elasticity was higher in <35 years (p < 0.001) without the influence of any other factor. In conclusion, sequenced movements can modify tone and stiffness as a function of age, while age-associated changes in viscoelastic characteristics depends on pain but not on movements. The MMPs should be assessed, not only at the beginning of the physical examination at rest, but also along the patient's follow-up, depending on their pain and age, in a clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Alcaraz-Clariana
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (S.A.-C.); (L.G.-L.); (C.C.-P.); (D.P.R.-d.-S.); (F.A.-S.)
| | - Lourdes García-Luque
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (S.A.-C.); (L.G.-L.); (C.C.-P.); (D.P.R.-d.-S.); (F.A.-S.)
| | - Juan Luis Garrido-Castro
- Department of Computer Science and Numerical Analysis, Rabanales Campus, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain;
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Córdoba, Spain
| | - Cristina Carmona-Pérez
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (S.A.-C.); (L.G.-L.); (C.C.-P.); (D.P.R.-d.-S.); (F.A.-S.)
| | - Daiana Priscila Rodrigues-de-Souza
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (S.A.-C.); (L.G.-L.); (C.C.-P.); (D.P.R.-d.-S.); (F.A.-S.)
| | - César Fernández-de-las-Peñas
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, 28922 Madrid, Spain
- Cátedra Institucional en Docencia, Clínica e Investigación en Fisioterapia: Terapia Manual, Punción Seca y Ejercicio Terapéutico, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, 28922 Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Alburquerque-Sendín
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (S.A.-C.); (L.G.-L.); (C.C.-P.); (D.P.R.-d.-S.); (F.A.-S.)
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Córdoba, Spain
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Hamilton RI, Garden CL, Brown SJ. Immediate effect of a spinal mobilisation intervention on muscle stiffness, tone and elasticity in subjects with lower back pain – A randomized cross-over trial. J Bodyw Mov Ther 2022; 29:60-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2021.09.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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15
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Alcaraz-Clariana S, García-Luque L, Garrido-Castro JL, Aranda-Valera IC, Ladehesa-Pineda L, Puche-Larrubia MÁ, Carmona-Pérez C, Rodrigues-de-Souza DP, Alburquerque-Sendín F. Paravertebral Muscle Mechanical Properties in Patients with Axial Spondyloarthritis or Low Back Pain: A Case-Control Study. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:1898. [PMID: 34679595 PMCID: PMC8535094 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11101898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Different musculoskeletal disorders are a source of pain in the spinal region; most of them can be divided into mechanical, such as low back pain (LBP), or inflammatory origins, as is the case of axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). Nevertheless, insufficient information is available about the muscle negative consequences of these conditions. Thus, the objective of this study was to identify whether mechanical muscle properties (MMPs) of cervical and lumbar muscles are different between patients with axSpA, subacute LBP (sLBP), and healthy controls. Furthermore, we aimed identify whether MMPs were related to sociodemographic and clinical variables in various study groups. The MMPs, sociodemographic, and clinical variables were obtained in 43 patients with axSpA, 43 subjects with sLBP, and 43 healthy controls. One-way ANOVAs and ROC curves were applied to identify whether the MMPs could differentiate between the study groups. Intra-group Pearson r coefficients to test the associations between MMPs and the rest of the variables were calculated. The results showed that axSpA subjects have a higher tone and stiffness and a lower relaxation and creep than sLBP and healthy ones (p < 0.05). All lumbar and cervical MMPs, except for decrement, could correctly classify axSpA and healthy subjects and axSpA and sLBP patients (in both cases, Area Under the Curve > 0.8). However, no MMP could differentiate between sLBP and healthy subjects. Each group had a different pattern of bivariate correlations between MMPs and sociodemographic and clinical data, with a worse state and progression of the axSpA group associated with a higher tone and stiffness in both spinal regions. This study supports that MMPs are different and show different patterns of correlations depending on the type of spinal pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Alcaraz-Clariana
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (S.A.-C.); (L.G.-L.); (C.C.-P.); (F.A.-S.)
| | - Lourdes García-Luque
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (S.A.-C.); (L.G.-L.); (C.C.-P.); (F.A.-S.)
| | - Juan Luis Garrido-Castro
- Department of Computer Science and Numerical Analysis, Rabanales Campus, University of Cordoba, 14071 Cordoba, Spain;
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (I.C.A.-V.); (L.L.-P.); (M.Á.P.-L.)
| | - I. Concepción Aranda-Valera
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (I.C.A.-V.); (L.L.-P.); (M.Á.P.-L.)
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Reina Sofía, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Lourdes Ladehesa-Pineda
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (I.C.A.-V.); (L.L.-P.); (M.Á.P.-L.)
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Reina Sofía, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - María Ángeles Puche-Larrubia
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (I.C.A.-V.); (L.L.-P.); (M.Á.P.-L.)
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Reina Sofía, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Cristina Carmona-Pérez
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (S.A.-C.); (L.G.-L.); (C.C.-P.); (F.A.-S.)
| | - Daiana Priscila Rodrigues-de-Souza
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (S.A.-C.); (L.G.-L.); (C.C.-P.); (F.A.-S.)
| | - Francisco Alburquerque-Sendín
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (S.A.-C.); (L.G.-L.); (C.C.-P.); (F.A.-S.)
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (I.C.A.-V.); (L.L.-P.); (M.Á.P.-L.)
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Wu Z, Wang Y, Ye Z, Guan Y, Ye X, Chen Z, Li C, Chen G, Zhu Y, Du J, Chen G, Liu W, Xu X. Effects of Age and Sex on Properties of Lumbar Erector Spinae in Healthy People: Preliminary Results From a Pilot Study. Front Physiol 2021; 12:718068. [PMID: 34616306 PMCID: PMC8488426 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.718068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The influences of age and sex on properties of lumbar erector spinae have not been previously studied. Changes in the performance of lumbar erector spinae properties associated with age represent a valuable indicator of risk for lower-back-related disease. Objective: To investigate the lumbar erector spinae properties with regard to age and sex to provide a reference dataset. Methods: We measured muscle tone and stiffness of the lumbar erector spinae (at the L3–4 level) in healthy men and women (50 young people, aged 20–30 years; 50 middle-aged people, aged 40–50 years; and 50 elderly people, aged 65–75 years) using a MyotonPRO device. Results: In general, there are significant differences in muscle tone and stiffness among young, middle-aged, and elderly participants, and there were significant differences in muscle tone and stiffness between men and women, and there was no interaction between age and sex. The muscle tone and stiffness of the elderly participants were significantly higher than those of the middle-aged and young participants (P < 0.01), and the muscle tone and stiffness of the middle-aged participants were significantly higher than those of the young participants (P < 0.01). In addition, the muscle tone and stiffness of men participants were significantly higher than that of women participants (P < 0.01). Conclusion: Our results indicate that muscle tone and stiffness of the lumbar erector spinae increase with age. The muscle tone and stiffness of the lumbar erector spinae in men are significantly higher than in women. The present study highlights the importance of considering age and sex differences when assessing muscle characteristics of healthy people or patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zugui Wu
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Wang
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zixuan Ye
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yingxing Guan
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiangling Ye
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zehua Chen
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Congcong Li
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guoqian Chen
- Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yue Zhu
- Baishui Health Center, Qujing, China
| | - Jianping Du
- Guangdong Second Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guocai Chen
- Foshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wengang Liu
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Second Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuemeng Xu
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Second Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guangzhou, China
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17
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Garrido-Castro JL, Aranda-Valera IC, Peña-Amaro J, Martínez-Galisteo A, González-Navas C, Rodrigues-de-Souza DP, Alcaraz-Clariana S, García-Luque L, Sánchez IRM, López-Medina C, Collantes-Estévez E, Alburquerque-Sendín F. Mechanical Properties of Lumbar and Cervical Paravertebral Muscles in Patients with Axial Spondyloarthritis: A Case-Control Study. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11091662. [PMID: 34574003 PMCID: PMC8472659 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11091662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) affects spinal muscles, due to inflammation and structural damage. The mechanical properties of the muscles, such as tone or stiffness, could be altered in axSpA. The aim of this work is to analyze the mechanical properties of cervical and lumbar spine muscles in axSpA patients and their relationship with metrology measures, function, disease activity, structural damage and quality of life. Methods: axSpA patients and age/gender/BMI matched healthy controls were recruited. The muscle mechanical properties (MMPs), such as tone or frequency, stiffness, decrement (linear elastic properties), relaxation and creep (viscoelastic properties), of cervical (semispinalis capitis) and lumbar (erector spinae) muscles were bilaterally measured at rest using myotonometry. Additionally, conventional metrology, BASMI (metrology index), BASDAI (disease activity index), mSASSS (radiological structural damage index) and SF-12 (health-related quality of life questionnaire) were used in the axSpA group. Between-groups comparison, intra-group correlations and multivariable regression analyses were performed to achieve the study aims. Results: Thirty-four axSpA patients (mean age: 46.21 ± 8.53 y) and 34 healthy volunteers (mean age: 43.97 ± 8.49 y) were recruited. Both in cervical and lumbar spine, linear elastic parameters were significantly higher in axSpA patients in comparison with controls, while viscoelastic parameters were significantly lower. Lumbar muscle frequency, stiffness, relaxation, creep and cervical muscle elasticity were fair to strongly correlated (|0.346| < r < |0.774|) with age, functional status, activity of disease, structural damage and quality of life in axSpA patients. Furthermore, moderate to good fitted multivariate models (0.328 < R2 < 0.697) were obtained combining age, conventional metrology, activity of the disease and function for the estimation of cervical and lumbar MMPs. Conclusion: Mechanical properties of spinal muscles of axSpA patients differ from controls. Lumbar and cervical muscles exhibit greater linear elastic properties and lower viscoelastic properties, which are related with age, clinical and psychophysiological features of axSpA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan L. Garrido-Castro
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (J.L.G.-C.); (I.C.A.-V.); (J.P.-A.); (C.G.-N.); (C.L.-M.); (E.C.-E.); (F.A.-S.)
| | - I. Concepción Aranda-Valera
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (J.L.G.-C.); (I.C.A.-V.); (J.P.-A.); (C.G.-N.); (C.L.-M.); (E.C.-E.); (F.A.-S.)
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Reina Sofía, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - José Peña-Amaro
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (J.L.G.-C.); (I.C.A.-V.); (J.P.-A.); (C.G.-N.); (C.L.-M.); (E.C.-E.); (F.A.-S.)
- Department of Morphological and Social Health Sciences, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | | | - Cristina González-Navas
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (J.L.G.-C.); (I.C.A.-V.); (J.P.-A.); (C.G.-N.); (C.L.-M.); (E.C.-E.); (F.A.-S.)
| | - Daiana P. Rodrigues-de-Souza
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (S.A.-C.); (L.G.-L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-957-218-241
| | - Sandra Alcaraz-Clariana
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (S.A.-C.); (L.G.-L.)
| | - Lourdes García-Luque
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (S.A.-C.); (L.G.-L.)
| | - Iago R. Martínez Sánchez
- Advanced Informatics Research Group (GIIA) TIC-252, University of Cordoba, 14014 Cordoba, Spain;
| | - Clementina López-Medina
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (J.L.G.-C.); (I.C.A.-V.); (J.P.-A.); (C.G.-N.); (C.L.-M.); (E.C.-E.); (F.A.-S.)
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Reina Sofía, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Eduardo Collantes-Estévez
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (J.L.G.-C.); (I.C.A.-V.); (J.P.-A.); (C.G.-N.); (C.L.-M.); (E.C.-E.); (F.A.-S.)
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Reina Sofía, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Francisco Alburquerque-Sendín
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (J.L.G.-C.); (I.C.A.-V.); (J.P.-A.); (C.G.-N.); (C.L.-M.); (E.C.-E.); (F.A.-S.)
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (S.A.-C.); (L.G.-L.)
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Comparison of the Immediate Effect of Petrissage Massage and Manual Lymph Drainage Following Exercise on Biomechanical and Viscoelastic Properties of the Rectus Femoris Muscle in Women. J Sport Rehabil 2021; 30:725-730. [PMID: 33618331 DOI: 10.1123/jsr.2020-0276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Fast and adequate recovery after exercise and activity is important for increasing performance and preventing injuries. Inadequate recovery usually causes changes in the biomechanical and viscoelastic properties of the muscle. OBJECTIVE To compare the immediate effect of petrissage massage (PM) and manual lymph drainage (MLD) following submaximal exercise on the biomechanical and viscoelastic properties of the rectus femoris muscle in healthy women. DESIGN Cross-sectional, repeated-measures. SETTING Marmara University. PARTICIPANTS 18 healthy female students. INTERVENTION(S) Following the submaximal quadriceps strengthening exercise performed in 3 sets of 8 repetitions with intensity of 75% of 1 maximum repetition, participants' right leg received a 5-minute PM (PM group) and the contralateral leg received a 5-minute MLD application (MLD group). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Skin temperature was measured using P45 thermographic thermal camera (Flir System; ThermaCAM, Danderyd, Sweden), and muscle tone, biomechanical, and viscoelastic features were measured with a myometer (Myoton AS, Tallinn, Estonia) at baseline, immediately postexercise, post-PM/MLD application, and 10 minutes postexercise. RESULTS In the PM group, the tonus (P = .002) and stiffness (P < .001) values measured after the massage and at the end of the 10-minute resting period were found to be statistically different than those measured right after the exercise (P < .05). Relaxation time and creep values at all measurement times were significantly different (P < .05). In the MLD group, it was observed the tonus (P < .001), stiffness (P = .025), and relaxation time (P < .01) values decreased significantly after the MLD compared with the values measured after the exercise; however, the creep value was found to be significantly different in all measurements (P < .05). CONCLUSION PM and MLD reduce passive tissue stiffness and improve the extent of muscle extensibility over time against the muscle tensile strength. PM and MLD are therapeutic methods that can be used to support tissue recovery after exercise and prevent injuries.
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Paravertebral Muscle Mechanical Properties and Spinal Range of Motion in Patients with Acute Neck or Low Back Pain: A Case-Control Study. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11020352. [PMID: 33672470 PMCID: PMC7923441 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11020352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Our aims were to identify potential differences in muscle mechanical properties (MMPs) of cervical and lumbar tissues and in spinal range of motion (ROM) between patients with acute low back pain (LBP) or acute neck pain (NP) and healthy controls, and to identify if ROMs and MMPs are able to identify subjects among the three groups. Clinical variables (pain, disability, fear of movement, kinesiophobia, quality of life), MMPs and ROMs were obtained in 33 subjects with acute LBP, 33 with acute NP, and 33 healthy control subjects. Between-groups differences and explanatory models to discriminate groups depending on MMPs and ROMs were calculated. The results showed that cervical tone was higher in patients with acute NP than in controls, while cervical decrement was higher in both spinal pain groups. Patients with acute NP showed reduced cervical flexion when compared to acute LBP and control groups, and also cervical rotation, but just against controls. Furthermore, lumbar flexion was reduced in patients with acute LBP when compared to those with acute NP. Cervical decrement was able to discriminate spinal pain individuals from controls in a multinominal regression (R2: Cox–Snell estimation = 0.533; Nagelkerke estimation = 0.600). Lumbar flexion differentiated patients with acute LBP and controls, whereas cervical flexion differentiated patients with acute NP and controls. This study supports a tendency of the affectation of other spinal regions when only one is affected.
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Tennant LM, Nelson-Wong E, Kuest J, Lawrence G, Levesque K, Owens D, Prisby J, Spivey S, Albin SR, Jagger K, Barrett JM, Wong JD, Callaghan JP. A Comparison of Clinical Spinal Mobility Measures to Experimentally Derived Lumbar Spine Passive Stiffness. J Appl Biomech 2020; 36:397-407. [PMID: 33049702 DOI: 10.1123/jab.2020-0030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Spinal stiffness and mobility assessments vary between clinical and research settings, potentially hindering the understanding and treatment of low back pain. A total of 71 healthy participants were evaluated using 2 clinical assessments (posteroanterior spring and passive intervertebral motion) and 2 quantitative measures: lumped mechanical stiffness of the lumbar spine and local tissue stiffness (lumbar erector spinae and supraspinous ligament) measured via myotonometry. The authors hypothesized that clinical, mechanical, and local tissue measures would be correlated, that clinical tests would not alter mechanical stiffness, and that males would demonstrate greater lumbar stiffness than females. Clinical, lumped mechanical, and tissue stiffness were not correlated; however, gradings from the posteroanterior spring and passive intervertebral motion tests were positively correlated with each other. Clinical assessments had no effect on lumped mechanical stiffness. The males had greater lumped mechanical and lumbar erector spinae stiffness compared with the females. The lack of correlation between clinical, tissue, and lumped mechanical measures of spinal stiffness indicates that the use of the term "stiffness" by clinicians may require reevaluation; clinicians should be confident that they are not altering mechanical stiffness of the spine through segmental mobility assessments; and greater resting lumbar erector stiffness in males suggests that sex should be considered in the assessment and treatment of the low back.
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Chen B, Zhao H, Liao L, Zhang Z, Liu C. Reliability of shear-wave elastography in assessing thoracolumbar fascia elasticity in healthy male. Sci Rep 2020; 10:19952. [PMID: 33203935 PMCID: PMC7672102 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-77123-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to examine the intra and inter-operator reliability of shear wave elastography (SWE) device in quantifying the shear modulus of thoracolumbar fascia (TLF) and the device’s abilities to examine the shear modulus of the TLF during upper body forward. Twenty healthy male subjects participated in this study (mean age: 18.4 ± 0.7 years). Two independent operators performed the shear modulus of TLF during upper body forward using SWE, and interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and minimum detectable change (MDC) were calculated. The shear modulus of the TLF was quantified by operator A using SWE at upper body forward 60°. The intra-operator (ICC = 0.860–0.938) and inter-operator (ICC = 0.904–0.944) reliabilities for measuring the shear modulus of the TLF with the upper body forward 0° were rated as both excellent, and the MDC was 4.71 kPa. The TLF shear modulus of upper body forward 60°was increased 45.5% (L3) and 55.0% (L4) than that of upper body forward 0°. The results indicate that the SWE is a dependable tool to quantify the shear modulus of TLF and monitor its dynamic changes. Therefore, this device can be used for biomechanical study and intervention experiments of TLF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baizhen Chen
- Clinical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongzhou Zhao
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Reduction Room, Tianjin Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Linrong Liao
- Department of Rehabilitation, Jiangsu Provincial Yixing Jiuru Rehabilitation Hospital, Yixing, China
| | - Zhijie Zhang
- Luoyang Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China.
| | - Chunlong Liu
- Clinical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.
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Lo WLA, Lei D, Leng Y, Huang H, Wang B, Yu Q, Li L. Impact of nonsurgical spinal decompression on paraspinal muscle morphology and mechanical properties in young adults with low back pain. J Int Med Res 2020; 48:300060520919232. [PMID: 32723102 PMCID: PMC7391436 DOI: 10.1177/0300060520919232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The mechanism underlying the benefit of nonsurgical spinal decompression (NSSD) on low back pain is unclear. This study was performed to investigate the immediate impact of NSSD on the mechanical properties and morphology of the paraspinal muscles. Methods Participants with low back pain were recruited. NSSD therapy was provided on one occasion. A myotonometer was placed perpendicularly on the skin surface over the paraspinal muscle at the level of L3/L4 to measure the mechanical muscle properties. The multifidus thickness was measured using B-mode ultrasound and defined as the distance between the transverse process and subcutaneous tissue fascia. The difference between before and after NSSD was analyzed by a paired t-test. Results Thirty participants (mean age, 20.9 ± 0.8 years; 9 male, 21 female) were recruited. No significant difference was observed in the muscle mechanical properties or morphology between before and after the intervention. Conclusions NSSD intervention did not induce immediate changes in the paraspinal muscle mechanical properties or multifidus thickness in young adults with low back pain. NSSD might produce benefits by stimulating mechanical receptors rather than inducing morphological changes or mechanical property alterations of the muscle fibers. These parameters may not be suitable outcome measures for NSSD intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wai Leung Ambrose Lo
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rehabilitation Medicine and Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Di Lei
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan Leng
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rehabilitation Medicine and Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huanjie Huang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Biru Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiuhua Yu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Le Li
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rehabilitation Medicine and Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Lohr C, Schmidt T, Braumann KM, Reer R, Medina-Porqueres I. Sex-Based Differences in Tensiomyography as Assessed in the Lower Erector Spinae of Healthy Participants: An Observational Study. Sports Health 2020; 12:341-346. [PMID: 32511080 DOI: 10.1177/1941738120917932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although there is mounting evidence on sex-linked differences in paraspinal muscle function, it is unknown whether sex-based variations in mechanical and contractile characteristics of the lumbar erector spinae (LES) can be monitored noninvasively in healthy participants at rest using tensiomyography (TMG). HYPOTHESIS Sex-specific effects in muscle displacement (Dm) and velocity of muscle deformation (Vd) will be observed via TMG assessed in the LES. STUDY DESIGN Observational study. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level 3. METHODS LES response was measured in a relaxed state in 40 healthy adults (20 females). Possible differences between the conditions were investigated using mixed-model analyses of variance. Two-stage hierarchical linear regression analyses were performed to predict the outcome of TMG Dm and Vd based on participant sex. RESULTS There were significant main effects of sex with large effect sizes for both TMG parameters, resulting from lower mean values in women compared with men (Dm, P < 0.01; Vd, P < 0.01). In contrast, neither the main effect of side (left vs right LES) nor the interaction between the side and sex reached significance (all P > 0.3). Introducing the sex variable in stage 2 of the regression analyses significantly improved the prediction of the TMG parameters (all ∆R2 ≥ 0.18; all P < 0.01; all f2 ≥ 0.29). CONCLUSION Sex-based differences in muscle stiffness and contractile characteristics could be observed by TMG on LES muscles in healthy individuals at rest. The data suggest that these disparities are not exclusively attributable to anthropometric measures but may be linked to intrinsic sex-based differences in skeletal muscle characteristics. CLINICAL RELEVANCE We recommend implementing TMG in a clinical setting using the obtained results as a basis to factor for the patient's biological sex when assessing effects of therapeutic/exercise regimens aiming at the optimization of myofascial tissue regeneration and performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Lohr
- Department of Sports Medicine, Institute for Human Movement Science, Faculty for Psychology and Human Movement Science, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tobias Schmidt
- Department of Sports Medicine, Institute for Human Movement Science, Faculty for Psychology and Human Movement Science, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany.,Department of General Practice, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,Osteopathie Schule Deutschland (OSD) Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Klaus-Michael Braumann
- Department of Sports Medicine, Institute for Human Movement Science, Faculty for Psychology and Human Movement Science, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Rüdiger Reer
- Department of Sports Medicine, Institute for Human Movement Science, Faculty for Psychology and Human Movement Science, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ivan Medina-Porqueres
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
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Quantified biomechanical properties of lower lumbar myofascia in younger adults with chronic idiopathic low back pain and matched healthy controls. Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon) 2020; 73:78-85. [PMID: 31954272 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2019.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-specific chronic low back pain (LBP) is a prevalent condition that is poorly understood with respect to possible altered physical properties. Five biomechanical properties of stiffness, frequency, decrement, creep, and stress relaxation time of the L3-L4 myofascial tissue were quantified using the MyotonPro® in chronic idiopathic LBP and matched normal control subjects. METHODS Measurements were obtained in the resting prone position on the left and right sides (initially and after 10 min rest) in 25 chronic LBP participants (16 female, 9 male) and 25 age- and sex-matched control subjects. Surface electromyography measurements were simultaneously conducted to ensure a resting state. FINDINGS Female LBP had significantly greater median decrement (p < 0.001) and stiffness (p < 0.010) than female controls. In female LBP patients, BMI correlated with decrement (p < 0.010) and creep (p < 0.050); creep also correlated with decrement (p < 0.050). Significant male versus female differences were found in all five properties in both LBP and control subgroups, except decrement in control males versus females. INTERPRETATION This study showed that greater median decrement was found in LBP female subjects suggesting decrease in elasticity in the lumbar myofascia. Most of the biomechanical properties differed significantly by gender. This study further documented that right-handed dominance might correlate with greater right-sided lumbar myofascial stiffness.
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Wu Z, Zhu Y, Xu W, Liang J, Guan Y, Xu X. Analysis of Biomechanical Properties of the Lumbar Extensor Myofascia in Elderly Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain and That in Healthy People. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:7649157. [PMID: 32149135 PMCID: PMC7049445 DOI: 10.1155/2020/7649157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2019] [Revised: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
There is limited research on the changes of biomechanical characteristics of the lumbar extensor myofascia in elderly patients with chronic low back pain. This study aimed to compare the biomechanical properties of the lumbar extensor myofascia in elderly patients with chronic low back pain and healthy people when resting and to analyze the relationship between the Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score, visual analog scale (VAS) score, Cobb angle, and disease course and the biomechanical characteristics of the lumbar extensor myofascia. This case-control study included 40 elderly patients with chronic low back pain and 40 healthy volunteers. MyotonPRO was used to measure the biomechanical properties of the bilateral lumbar extensor myofascia (at L3/L4 level) in all participants, and the reliability of the MyotonPRO test was measured. Cobb angle was measured from lumbar computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging data. JOA and VAS scores were used to evaluate lumbar function and pain. We found that muscle tone, stiffness, and elasticity of the left and right lumbar extensor myofascia in patients with chronic low back pain were very reliable among different operators. The average lumbar extensor muscle tone and stiffness were significantly higher in patients with chronic low back pain than those in healthy controls. The average elasticity of the lumbar extensor myofascia of patients with chronic low back pain was significantly lower than that of the healthy controls. The JOA score was negatively correlated, while the VAS score was positively correlated with the mean values of tone, stiffness, and elasticity of the bilateral lumbar extensor myofascia (logarithmic decrement). Disease course had no significant correlation with muscle tone, stiffness, and elasticity of the lumbar extensor myofascia. No significant correlation was found between Cobb angle and muscle tone, stiffness, and elasticity of the lumbar extensor myofascia in either group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zugui Wu
- The Fifth Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Yue Zhu
- Baishui Town Health Center, Zhanyi District, Qujing 655000, China
| | - Wu Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Junquan Liang
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Yingxin Guan
- The Fifth Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Xuemeng Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China
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Julià-Sánchez S, Álvarez-Herms J, Cirer-Sastre R, Corbi F, Burtscher M. The Influence of Dental Occlusion on Dynamic Balance and Muscular Tone. Front Physiol 2020; 10:1626. [PMID: 32082183 PMCID: PMC7005008 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.01626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Excellent postural control is essential to improve the physical performance of athletes. Stability of the body during motor tasks depends on different physiological systems. The influence of dental occlusion on body balance has been widely investigated in the past few years. It has been suggested that this relationship is strengthened by disturbing environments for balance control (i.e., unstable platform, fatigue, development tasks.). Moreover, dental occlusion may influence the muscle tone of both masticatory and postural muscles, which are involved in the preservation of balance. Therefore, we attempted to determine whether (i) there are differences in dynamic balance assessed by the modified star excursion balance test between opposed dental occlusion conditions (dental contact: intercuspal position/no dental contact: cotton rolls mandibular position) and (ii) dental occlusion influences the biomechanical and viscoelastic properties of the masticatory and postural muscles assessed with MyotonPRO®. Thirty physically active subjects were recruited for the study. The main findings were the following: (i) the Star Excursion Balance Test composite score was significantly higher for measurements made in cotton rolls mandibular position (p < 0.001) and also in subjects showing a correct occlusion (p = 0.04), and (ii) the biomechanic and viscolelastic properties of selected muscles showed different trend according to the presence of malocclusal traits. It is concluded that dental occlusion conditioned both dynamic stability and the biomechanic and viscoelastic properties of the analyzed muscles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Julià-Sánchez
- Faculty of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, European University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús Álvarez-Herms
- Faculty of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, European University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rafel Cirer-Sastre
- Institut Nacional d'Educació Física de Catalunya, Universitat de Lleida, Lleida, Spain
| | - Francisco Corbi
- Institut Nacional d'Educació Física de Catalunya, Universitat de Lleida, Lleida, Spain
| | - Martin Burtscher
- Department of Sport Science, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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Lo WLA, Yu Q, Mao Y, Li W, Hu C, Li L. Lumbar muscles biomechanical characteristics in young people with chronic spinal pain. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2019; 20:559. [PMID: 31759390 PMCID: PMC6875033 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-019-2935-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The prevalence of low back pain is rising among the young adult population. Altered lumbar muscle tone was suggested to be associated with underlying pathologies and symptoms. To date, there is minimum information available on the repeatability of lumbar spine muscle mechanical properties in the young adults who experienced low back pain. This study aimed to assess the reproducibility of mechanical properties of lumbar spinal muscle in young adults with spinal pain by myotonometer and explored the difference in reproducibility when different number of indentations was used. Methods Participants who aged between 18 to 25 and reported chronic LBP were recruited. Lumbar muscle tone (Hz) and stiffness (N/m) were assessed by myotonometer on one occasion by two assessors. Parameters were recorded by triple scans and 5-scans mode. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), smallest real difference (SRD), Bland and Altman analysis were used to assess agreement between two measurements. The relationship between muscle mechanical properties and pain score and disability level were assessed by Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient. Results The results of ICCs indicated excellent repeatability in triple scans and 5-scans mode for each lumbar level bilaterally (ICC > 0.75). SEM and SRD were smaller in triple scans than 5-scans mode for most levels. Bland and Altman analysis revealed no systematic bias. Spearman’s rank correlation analysis indicated significant high correlations between muscle tone and disability level (r = 0.80, p < 0.05), and between muscle stiffness and disability level (r = 0.81, p < 0.05). Conclusions This study found that lumbar spinal muscle tone and stiffness were repeatable parameters when measured by myotonometer. The reproducibility of muscle mechanical parameters did not appear to differ between the two scanning modes with different number of indentations. Muscle tone and stiffness measured by myotonometer may therefore be reliable as outcome measures to assess intervention induced changes. The lack of significant association between intensity of pain and mechanical properties of paraspinal muscles may suggest that muscle properties measured at rest might not be related to pain level at rest but more related to pain elicited during movement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wai Leung Ambrose Lo
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.,Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rehabilitation Medicine and Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Qiuhua Yu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Yurong Mao
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.,Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rehabilitation Medicine and Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Wenfeng Li
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Chengpeng Hu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Le Li
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China. .,Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rehabilitation Medicine and Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
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Cè E, Longo S, Limonta E, Coratella G, Rampichini S, Esposito F. Peripheral fatigue: new mechanistic insights from recent technologies. Eur J Appl Physiol 2019; 120:17-39. [DOI: 10.1007/s00421-019-04264-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Yun DE, Kim MK. Effects of mirror therapy on muscle activity, muscle tone, pain, and function in patients with mutilating injuries: A randomized controlled trial. Medicine (Baltimore) 2019; 98:e15157. [PMID: 31027060 PMCID: PMC6831332 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000015157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study assessed the effectiveness of mirror therapy (MT) on muscle elasticity, pain, and function in patients with mutilating injuries. METHODS Thirty patients with impaired function due to mutilating injuries were assigned randomly to experimental or control group. The experimental group (n = 15) received MT (30 minutes a day, 3 days a week for 4 weeks) and conventional physical therapy after each MT session while the control group (n = 15) only received conventional physical therapy. RESULTS There were significant differences in pain and hand function within each group (pre-intervention vs post-intervention) and between groups (experimental vs control) (P < .05). However, there was no significant difference in muscle elasticity between groups (P > .05). CONCLUSION Although MT cannot result in significant changes in muscle elasticity in a clinical setting, it does have positive effects by reducing pain and improving hand function. Thus, MT can be effective for patients with impaired function due to mutilating injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da-Eun Yun
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Graduate School
| | - Myoung-Kwon Kim
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Daegu University, Daegudae-ro, Gyeongsan-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Republic of Korea
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Albin SR, Koppenhaver SL, Bailey B, Blommel H, Fenter B, Lowrimore C, Smith AC, McPoil TG. The effect of manual therapy on gastrocnemius muscle stiffness in healthy individuals. Foot (Edinb) 2019; 38:70-75. [PMID: 30665198 PMCID: PMC6815100 DOI: 10.1016/j.foot.2019.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 12/24/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Randomized clinical trial. BACKGROUND Muscle stiffness is a potential complication after injury and has been shown to be a risk factor for injury in healthy individuals. OBJECTIVES The primary purpose of this study was to assess the short-term effects of manual therapy (MT) on muscle stiffness of the gastrocnemius in both a relaxed and contracted state. The secondary purpose was to assess the reliability of a novel clinical tool (MyotonPRO) to measure muscle stiffness in the gastrocnemius in both a passive and contracted state. METHODS Eighty-four consecutive healthy individuals were randomized to receive Manual Therapy (MT group) directed at the right-side ankle and foot or no treatment (CONTROL group). Muscle stiffness of the gastrocnemius was assessed bilaterally in all participants at baseline and then immediately after intervention in a relaxed and contracted state. Group (MT vs. CONTROL) by side (ipsilateral vs. contralateral) by time (pre vs. post) effects were compared through a 3-way interaction utilizing mixed model ANOVA. Reliability of the MyotonPRO was assessed with two-way mixed model intraclass correlation coefficients. RESULTS There was a significant 3-way interaction for muscle stiffness of the gastrocnemius in a relaxed state (p<0.01), but not contracted state (p=0.54). All conditions had increased resting muscle stiffness from pre to post measures except for the ipsilateral limb of the MT group. There was not a significant interaction for muscle stiffness in a contracted state. Reliability estimates (ICC) for muscle stiffness measures ranged between 0.898 and 0.986. CONCLUSION The change in muscle stiffness of the gastrocnemius in a relaxed state depended upon whether individuals received MT. Muscle stiffness measures were highly reliable based on single measurements. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapy, level 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie R. Albin
- Regis University, Denver, CO, United States,Corresponding author. (S.R. Albin)
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of the study was to investigate the plantar fascia and heel fat pad stiffness and thickness parameters in females and compare these values with those of males. METHODS This study was carried out in 60 healthy sedentary participants (30 female, 30 male) between the ages of 19 and 50 years. Shear wave velocity (SWV) and thickness of the plantar fascia and heel fat pad were measured with an ultrasonography device. RESULTS Males had a higher plantar fascia ( P = .037) and heel fat pad ( P = .001) thickness compared with females, but SWV of the plantar fascia ( P = .673), heel fat pad microchamber layer ( P = .240), and heel fat pad macrochamber layer ( P = .636) were similar in both groups. Body mass had a strong correlation with the plantar fascia ( r = 0.64, P < .001) and heel fat pad thickness ( r = 0.68, P < .001). Height had a moderate correlation with the plantar fascia ( r = 0.44, P < .001) and heel fat pad thickness ( r = 0.42, P = .001). CONCLUSION Plantar fascia and heel fat pad stiffness were similar in both genders; however, females had a lower plantar fascia and heel fat pad thickness compared with males. Correlation analysis results suggest that higher plantar fascia and heel fat pad thickness in males may be related to higher body mass and height. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE Level III: Retrospective comparative study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serkan Taş
- Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Department, Hacettepe University, Beytepe Hospital, Ankara, Turkey (ST)
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Hu X, Lei D, Li L, Leng Y, Yu Q, Wei X, Lo WLA. Quantifying paraspinal muscle tone and stiffness in young adults with chronic low back pain: a reliability study. Sci Rep 2018; 8:14343. [PMID: 30254233 PMCID: PMC6156595 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-32418-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The reliability of a handheld myotonometer when used in a clinical setting to assess paraspinal muscle mechanical properties is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the between-session intra-rater reliability of a handheld myotonometer in young adults with low back pain (LBP) in a clinical environment. One assessor recorded lumbar paraspinal muscle tone and stiffness in an outpatient department on two occasions. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), smallest real difference (SRD) and Bland-Altman analysis were conducted to assess reliability. The results indicated acceptable between-days intra-rater reliability (ICC > 0.75) for all measurements. The SEM of the muscle tone and stiffness measurements ranged between 0.20–0.66 Hz and 7.91–16.51 N/m, respectively. The SRD was 0.44–1.83 Hz for muscle tone and 21.93–52.87 N/m for muscle stiffness. SEM and SRD at L1-L2 were higher than those at other levels. The magnitude of agreement appeared to decrease as muscle tone and stiffness increased. The myotonometer demonstrated acceptable reliability when used in a clinical setting in young adults with chronic LBP. Measurements of the upper lumbar levels were not as reliable as those of the lower lumbar levels. The crural attachment of the diaphragm at L1 and L2 may affect paraspinal muscle tone and stiffness during respiratory cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqian Hu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rehabilitation Medicine and Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Di Lei
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rehabilitation Medicine and Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Le Li
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rehabilitation Medicine and Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Yan Leng
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rehabilitation Medicine and Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Qiuhua Yu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rehabilitation Medicine and Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Xiaoyu Wei
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rehabilitation Medicine and Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Wai Leung Ambrose Lo
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rehabilitation Medicine and Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China. .,Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University College London, Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7JE, UK.
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White A, Abbott H, Masi AT, Henderson J, Nair K. Biomechanical properties of low back myofascial tissue in younger adult ankylosing spondylitis patients and matched healthy control subjects. Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon) 2018; 57:67-73. [PMID: 29936315 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2018.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ankylosing spondylitis is a degenerative and inflammatory rheumatologic disorder that primarily affects the spine. Delayed diagnosis leads to debilitating spinal damage. This study examines biomechanical properties of non-contracting (resting) human lower lumbar myofascia in ankylosing spondylitis patients and matched healthy control subjects. METHODS Biomechanical properties of stiffness, frequency, decrement, stress relaxation time, and creep were quantified from 24 ankylosing spondylitis patients (19 male, 5 female) and 24 age- and sex-matched control subjects in prone position on both sides initially and after 10 min rest. Concurrent surface electromyography measurements were performed to ensure resting state. Statistical analyses were conducted, and significance was set at p < 0.05. FINDINGS Decreased lumbar muscle elasticity (inverse of decrement) was primarily correlated with disease duration in ankylosing spondylitis subjects, whereas BMI was the primary correlate in control subjects. In ankylosing spondylitis and control groups, significant positive correlations were observed between the linear elastic properties of stiffness and frequency as well as between the viscoelastic parameters of stress relaxation time and creep. The preceding groups also showed significant negative correlations between the linear elastic and viscoelastic properties. INTERPRETATION Findings indicate that increased disease duration is associated with decreased tissue elasticity or myofascial degradation. Both ankylosing spondylitis and healthy subjects revealed similar correlations between the linear and viscoelastic properties which suggest that the disease does not directly alter their inherent interrelations. The novel results that stiffness is greater in AS than normal subjects, whereas decrement is significantly correlated with AS disease duration deserves further investigation of the biomechanical properties and their underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison White
- Mechanical Engineering, Bradley University, Peoria, IL 61625, USA.
| | - Hannah Abbott
- Mechanical Engineering, Bradley University, Peoria, IL 61625, USA.
| | - Alfonse T Masi
- University of Illinois College of Medicine, Peoria, IL 61656, USA.
| | | | - Kalyani Nair
- Mechanical Engineering, Bradley University, Peoria, IL 61625, USA.
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Liu CL, Li YP, Wang XQ, Zhang ZJ. Quantifying the Stiffness of Achilles Tendon: Intra- and Inter-Operator Reliability and the Effect of Ankle Joint Motion. Med Sci Monit 2018; 24:4876-4881. [PMID: 30006997 PMCID: PMC6069534 DOI: 10.12659/msm.909531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The objectives of the present study were to examine the intra- and inter-operator reliability of the MyotonPRO device in quantifying the stiffness of the Achilles tendon and the device’s ability to examine the modulation in stiffness of the Achilles tendon during ankle joint flexion. Material/Methods Twenty asymptomatic participants (10 males and 10 females; mean age: 25.0±3.1 years) were recruited for this study. The stiffness of the Achilles tendon was quantified using the MyotonPRO device. Results The results revealed excellent intra- and inter-operator reliability for quantifying Achilles tendon stiffness with the ankle joint in a neutral position and detected a 13.9% increase in stiffness of the Achilles tendon between 0° and 30° of ankle joint flexion. The minimal detectable change (MDC) in tendon stiffness was 45 Newton/meter (N/m). Conclusions Our findings indicated that the MyotonPRO device is a feasible method to quantify the stiffness of the Achilles tendon and monitor its changes. Thus, it is an essential tool to use to examine the modulation in the stiffness of the Achilles tendon due to pathology or interventions for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Long Liu
- Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China (mainland)
| | - Ya Peng Li
- Rehabilitation Therapy Center, Henan Province Orthopedic Hospital, Luoyang, Henan, China (mainland)
| | - Xue Qiang Wang
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China (mainland)
| | - Zhi Jie Zhang
- Rehabilitation Therapy Center, Henan Province Orthopedic Hospital, Luoyang, Henan, China (mainland)
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Schoenrock B, Zander V, Dern S, Limper U, Mulder E, Veraksitš A, Viir R, Kramer A, Stokes MJ, Salanova M, Peipsi A, Blottner D. Bed Rest, Exercise Countermeasure and Reconditioning Effects on the Human Resting Muscle Tone System. Front Physiol 2018; 9:810. [PMID: 30018567 PMCID: PMC6037768 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.00810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The human resting muscle tone (HRMT) system provides structural and functional support to skeletal muscle and associated myofascial structures (tendons, fascia) in normal life. Little information is available on changes to the HRMT in bed rest. A set of dynamic oscillation mechanosignals ([Hz], [N/m], log decrement, [ms]) collected and computed by a hand-held digital palpation device (MyotonPRO) were used to study changes in tone and in key biomechanical and viscoelastic properties in global and postural skeletal muscle tendons and fascia from a non-exercise control (CTR) and an exercise (JUMP) group performing reactive jumps on a customized sledge system during a 60 days head-down tilt bed rest (RSL Study 2015–2016). A set of baseline and differential natural oscillation signal patterns were identified as key determinants in resting muscle and myofascial structures from back, thigh, calf, patellar and Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia. The greatest changes were found in thigh and calf muscle and tendon, with little change in the shoulder muscles. Functional tests (one leg jumps, electromyography) showed only trends in relevant leg muscle groups. Increased anti-Collagen-I immunoreactivity found in CTR soleus biopsy cryosections was absent from JUMP. Results allow for a muscle health status definition after chronic disuse in bed rest without and with countermeasure, and following reconditioning. Findings improve our understanding of structural and functional responses of the HRMT to disuse and exercise, may help to guide treatment in various clinical settings (e.g., muscle tone disorders, neuro-rehabilitation), and promote monitoring of muscle health and training status in personalized sport and space medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Britt Schoenrock
- Vegetative Anatomy, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Vanja Zander
- Neuroscience Group, German Sports University, Cologne, Germany
| | - Sebastian Dern
- Neuroscience Group, German Sports University, Cologne, Germany
| | - Ulrich Limper
- Human Physiology, German Aerospace Center, Cologne, Germany
| | - Edwin Mulder
- Human Physiology, German Aerospace Center, Cologne, Germany
| | - Alar Veraksitš
- Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ragnar Viir
- Ragnar Viir, Limited Partnership, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Andreas Kramer
- Neuromechanics Research Group, Sport Sciences, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Maria J Stokes
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Michele Salanova
- Vegetative Anatomy, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Center of Space Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Dieter Blottner
- Vegetative Anatomy, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Center of Space Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Lohr C, Braumann KM, Reer R, Schroeder J, Schmidt T. Reliability of tensiomyography and myotonometry in detecting mechanical and contractile characteristics of the lumbar erector spinae in healthy volunteers. Eur J Appl Physiol 2018; 118:1349-1359. [DOI: 10.1007/s00421-018-3867-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Characterization of tissue stiffness of the infraspinatus, erector spinae, and gastrocnemius muscle using ultrasound shear wave elastography and superficial mechanical deformation. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2018; 38:73-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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Assessing the viscoelastic properties of upper trapezius muscle: Intra- and inter-tester reliability and the effect of shoulder elevation. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2017; 43:226-229. [PMID: 29103836 DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2017.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing stiffness in the upper trapezius muscle may contribute to imbalance of scapular motion, and result in shoulder and neck discomfort during shoulder flexion. Therefore, it is essential to quantify upper trapezius stiffness in various shoulder positions in order to aid in the prevention of these disorders and to optimize rehabilitation. OBJECTIVES The objectives of the present study were to examine the intra and inter-tester reliability of MyotonPRO device in measuring upper trapezius stiffness and its ability to determine changes in stiffness during shoulder flexion. METHODS Twenty healthy male subjects (mean age: 28.3±4.8 years) were studied. The stiffness of upper trapezius was quantified using the MyotonPRO device. RESULTS The results revealed excellent intra and inter-tester reliability for measuring upper trapezius stiffness with the shoulder in a neutral position, and also found a 14.2% increase in stiffness upon shoulder flexion between 0° and 60° of flexion. Minimal detectable change (MDC) was 26.3 N/m. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that MyotonPRO device is a feasible tool to quantify upper trapezius stiffness as well as changes in muscle stiffness. Thus, it is important to assess the changes in upper trapezius muscle stiffness due to pathology or treatments for future studies.
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Wang D, De Vito G, Ditroilo M, Delahunt E. Effect of sex and fatigue on muscle stiffness and musculoarticular stiffness of the knee joint in a young active population. J Sports Sci 2016; 35:1582-1591. [PMID: 27590889 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2016.1225973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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