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De Luigi AJ. The effects on sports performance of technologic advances in sports prostheses and wheelchairs. PM R 2024; 16:409-417. [PMID: 38545751 DOI: 10.1002/pmrj.13153] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
The field of medicine continues to advance as new technologies emerge. These technological advancements include the science of sports prostheses and wheelchairs, in which there have been significant advancements over the past decades. The world of adaptive sports continues to expand, largely due to a combination of the increase in awareness, inclusion, and technology. As participation in sports for people with impairments increases, there has been an associated demand for new, innovative adaptive sporting equipment designs that help accommodate the physical deficits of the individual. Controversy has risen as persons with disabilities advance their skills with adaptive sports equipment to compete with individuals without disabilities. The controversy leads to the question: is the adaptive equipment allowing athletes with disability to regain the lost function from their baseline or does it allow them to exceed prior ability level? This narrative review provides information regarding the performance effects of advances in technology and biomechanics of adaptive sports equipment to help answer these questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Jason De Luigi
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
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Macchiarola D, Megna M, Quarta F, Bianchi FP, Cipriano R, Andrani M, Ricci V, Fiore P, Ranieri M, Farì G. With or without straps? A pilot study to investigate whether restraint devices affect the wheelchair basketball players' performance. Prosthet Orthot Int 2023; 47:519-524. [PMID: 36867561 DOI: 10.1097/pxr.0000000000000218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wheelchair basketball (WB) represents a great physical activity, rehabilitation, and integration opportunity for people with disability. Straps are wheelchair accessories used to ensure safeness and stability. Nevertheless, some athletes report feeling limited in movements because of these restraint devices. The aim of this study was thus to deepen whether straps could affect performance and cardiorespiratory effort in WB players' athletic gesture and furthermore whether sport performance could be influenced by experience, anthropometric features, or classification score. METHODS Ten WB elite athletes were enrolled in this observational cross-sectional study. Speediness, wheelchair maneuverability, and sport-specific skills were evaluated with 3 tests: 20-m straight line test (test 1), figure 8 test (test 2), and figure 8 with ball test (test 3); all tests were performed with and without straps. Cardiorespiratory parameters (blood pressure [BP], heart rate, and oxygen saturation) were registered before and after tests. Anthropometric data, classification score, and practice's years were collected and compared with test results. RESULTS Performance significantly improved in all tests wearing straps (test 1 P = 0.007, test 2 P = 0.009, and test 3 P = 0.025). No significant variation in cardiorespiratory basic signs emerged before and after the tests, with or without straps (systolic BP P = 0.140, diastolic BP P = 0.564, heart rate P = 0.066, and oxygen saturation P = 0.564). A statistically significant relation between test 1 with straps and classification score (coefficient = -0.25; P = 0.008) and test 3 without straps and classification score (coefficient = 1.00; P = 0.032) was found. No further relations emerged between test results and anthropometric data, classification score, and practice's years ( P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrated that straps, as well as ensuring safety and preventing injuries, also improve the WB performance, stabilizing the trunk and implementing upper limb skills, without exposing players to excessive cardiorespiratory and biomechanical stresses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario Macchiarola
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, Aldo Moro University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Marisa Megna
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, Aldo Moro University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Quarta
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science and Technologies (Di.S.Te.B.A.), University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Francesco Paolo Bianchi
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, Aldo Moro University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Roberta Cipriano
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, Aldo Moro University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Michela Andrani
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, Aldo Moro University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Ricci
- Unit of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Luigi Sacco University Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Pietro Fiore
- Neurorehabilitation and Spinal Unit, Institute of Bari, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Bari, Italy
| | - Maurizio Ranieri
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, Aldo Moro University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Giacomo Farì
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, Aldo Moro University of Bari, Bari, Italy
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science and Technologies (Di.S.Te.B.A.), University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
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Poulet Y, Brassart F, Simonetti E, Pillet H, Faupin A, Sauret C. Analyzing Intra-Cycle Velocity Profile and Trunk Inclination during Wheelchair Racing Propulsion. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 23:58. [PMID: 36616655 PMCID: PMC9824114 DOI: 10.3390/s23010058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The analysis of intra-cycle velocity profile of manual wheelchair (MWC) users has been used to highlight the significant role of trunk inertia in propulsion biomechanics. Maximal wheelchair linear velocity has previously been observed to be reached after the release of the handrims both during sports activities and daily life propulsion. This paper provides a combined analysis of linear velocity and trunk kinematics in elite wheelchair racing athletes during straight-line propulsion at stabilized speeds. MWC and trunk kinematics of eight athletes (level: 7 elite, 1 intermediate; classification: T54 (5), T53 (2) and T52 (1)) were monitored during 400 m races using inertial measurement units. An average propulsion cycle was computed for each athlete. The main finding of this article is the difference in propulsion patterns among the athletes, exhibiting either 1, 2 or 3 peaks in their velocity profile. A second peak in velocity is usually assumed to be caused by the inertia of the trunk. However, the presence of a second velocity peak among more severely impaired athletes with little to no trunk motion can either be associated to the inertia of the athletes' arms or to their propulsion technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoann Poulet
- Centre d’Études et de Recherche sur l’Appareillage des Handicapés, Institution Nationale des Invalides, 75007 Paris, France
- Arts et Métiers Institute of Technology, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, IBHGC—Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, HESAM Université, 151 Bd de l’Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | | | - Emeline Simonetti
- Centre d’Études et de Recherche sur l’Appareillage des Handicapés, Institution Nationale des Invalides, 75007 Paris, France
- Arts et Métiers Institute of Technology, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, IBHGC—Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, HESAM Université, 151 Bd de l’Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Hélène Pillet
- Arts et Métiers Institute of Technology, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, IBHGC—Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, HESAM Université, 151 Bd de l’Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Arnaud Faupin
- Laboratoire IAPS, Université de Toulon, 83130 Toulon, France
| | - Christophe Sauret
- Centre d’Études et de Recherche sur l’Appareillage des Handicapés, Institution Nationale des Invalides, 75007 Paris, France
- Arts et Métiers Institute of Technology, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, IBHGC—Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, HESAM Université, 151 Bd de l’Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
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Effectiveness of Rehabilitation through Kinematic Analysis of Upper Limb Functioning in Wheelchair Basketball Athletes: A Pilot Study. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12062929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Wheelchair basketball is one of the most popular Paralympic sports, including players with different diagnoses. To date, there is scarce evidence on shoulder functionality in wheelchair basketball players, and there is no consensus on a shoulder injury prevention program in these athletes. Therefore, in the present pilot study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of a comprehensive rehabilitative approach on shoulder ROM, muscle activity, and functioning in wheelchair basketball athletes. We included adult wheelchair basketball athletes playing in the Italian Second League who completed an 8-week comprehensive rehabilitative program, based on education to avoid upper limb pain injuries, preventive exercises, and improvement of ergonomics through kinematic analysis. We administered the Wheelchair User’s Shoulder Pain Index (WUSPI) and the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic (KJOC) questionnaire to evaluate pain experienced during functional activities, and used kinematic analysis integrated with sEMG to evaluate shoulder function and propulsion pattern. A sample of 10 wheelchair athletes (33.75 ± 6.42 years) were assessed. After the intervention there was a significant (p < 0.05) difference in WUSPI score (27.0 ± 18.5 vs. 25.0 ± 21.5) and in KJOC score (89.3 ± 10.4 to 95.4 ± 9.1). Moreover, there was a significant improvement in scapular upward rotation, abduction, and extra-rotation of the glenohumeral joint. Propulsion techniques improved in pattern and acceleration. This approach played a key role in improving upper limb function, reducing the incidence of pain and cumulative trauma disorders. However, the small sample size could affect the generalizability of results. In conclusion, healthcare professionals should monitor wheelchair athletes, assessing the patient’s function, ergonomics, equipment, and level of pain, and introducing specific exercises to prevent upper limb injuries.
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Rum L, Sten O, Vendrame E, Belluscio V, Camomilla V, Vannozzi G, Truppa L, Notarantonio M, Sciarra T, Lazich A, Mannini A, Bergamini E. Wearable Sensors in Sports for Persons with Disability: A Systematic Review. SENSORS 2021; 21:s21051858. [PMID: 33799941 PMCID: PMC7961424 DOI: 10.3390/s21051858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The interest and competitiveness in sports for persons with disabilities has increased significantly in the recent years, creating a demand for technological tools supporting practice. Wearable sensors offer non-invasive, portable and overall convenient ways to monitor sports practice. This systematic review aims at providing current evidence on the application of wearable sensors in sports for persons with disability. A search for articles published in English before May 2020 was performed on Scopus, Web-Of-Science, PubMed and EBSCO databases, searching titles, abstracts and keywords with a search string involving terms regarding wearable sensors, sports and disability. After full paper screening, 39 studies were included. Inertial and EMG sensors were the most commonly adopted wearable technologies, while wheelchair sports were the most investigated. Four main target applications of wearable sensors relevant to sports for people with disability were identified and discussed: athlete classification, injury prevention, performance characterization for training optimization and equipment customization. The collected evidence provides an overview on the application of wearable sensors in sports for persons with disability, providing useful indication for researchers, coaches and trainers. Several gaps in the different target applications are highlighted altogether with recommendation on future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Rum
- Interuniversity Centre of Bioengineering of the Human Neuromusculoskeletal System, Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, Piazza L. De Bosis 6, 00135 Rome, Italy; (L.R.); (V.B.); (V.C.); (E.B.)
| | - Oscar Sten
- BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56025 Pisa, Italy; (O.S.); (E.V.); (L.T.); (A.M.)
| | - Eleonora Vendrame
- BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56025 Pisa, Italy; (O.S.); (E.V.); (L.T.); (A.M.)
| | - Valeria Belluscio
- Interuniversity Centre of Bioengineering of the Human Neuromusculoskeletal System, Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, Piazza L. De Bosis 6, 00135 Rome, Italy; (L.R.); (V.B.); (V.C.); (E.B.)
| | - Valentina Camomilla
- Interuniversity Centre of Bioengineering of the Human Neuromusculoskeletal System, Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, Piazza L. De Bosis 6, 00135 Rome, Italy; (L.R.); (V.B.); (V.C.); (E.B.)
| | - Giuseppe Vannozzi
- Interuniversity Centre of Bioengineering of the Human Neuromusculoskeletal System, Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, Piazza L. De Bosis 6, 00135 Rome, Italy; (L.R.); (V.B.); (V.C.); (E.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0636733522
| | - Luigi Truppa
- BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56025 Pisa, Italy; (O.S.); (E.V.); (L.T.); (A.M.)
| | - Marco Notarantonio
- Joint Veteran Center, Scientific Department, Army Medical Center, 00184 Rome, Italy; (M.N.); (T.S.); (A.L.)
| | - Tommaso Sciarra
- Joint Veteran Center, Scientific Department, Army Medical Center, 00184 Rome, Italy; (M.N.); (T.S.); (A.L.)
| | - Aldo Lazich
- Joint Veteran Center, Scientific Department, Army Medical Center, 00184 Rome, Italy; (M.N.); (T.S.); (A.L.)
| | - Andrea Mannini
- BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56025 Pisa, Italy; (O.S.); (E.V.); (L.T.); (A.M.)
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, 50143 Firenze, Italy
| | - Elena Bergamini
- Interuniversity Centre of Bioengineering of the Human Neuromusculoskeletal System, Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, Piazza L. De Bosis 6, 00135 Rome, Italy; (L.R.); (V.B.); (V.C.); (E.B.)
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