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Warneke K, Behm DG, Alizadeh S, Hillebrecht M, Konrad A, Wirth K. Discussing Conflicting Explanatory Approaches in Flexibility Training Under Consideration of Physiology: A Narrative Review. Sports Med 2024; 54:1785-1799. [PMID: 38819597 PMCID: PMC11258068 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-024-02043-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying range of motion enhancements via flexibility training discussed in the literature show high heterogeneity in research methodology and study findings. In addition, scientific conclusions are mostly based on functional observations while studies considering the underlying physiology are less common. However, understanding the underlying mechanisms that contribute to an improved range of motion through stretching is crucial for conducting comparable studies with sound designs, optimising training routines and accurately interpreting resulting outcomes. While there seems to be no evidence to attribute acute range of motion increases as well as changes in muscle and tendon stiffness and pain perception specifically to stretching or foam rolling, the role of general warm-up effects is discussed in this paper. Additionally, the role of mechanical tension applied to greater muscle lengths for range of motion improvement will be discussed. Thus, it is suggested that physical training stressors can be seen as external stimuli that control gene expression via the targeted stimulation of transcription factors, leading to structural adaptations due to enhanced protein synthesis. Hence, the possible role of serial sarcomerogenesis in altering pain perception, reducing muscle stiffness and passive torque, or changes in the optimal joint angle for force development is considered as well as alternative interventions with a potential impact on anabolic pathways. As there are limited possibilities to directly measure serial sarcomere number, longitudinal muscle hypertrophy remains without direct evidence. The available literature does not demonstrate the necessity of only using specific flexibility training routines such as stretching to enhance acute or chronic range of motion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Warneke
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sport and Health, University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
- Department of Movement Sciences, Institute of Sport Science, University of Klagenfurt, Universitatsstraße 65, 9020, Klagenfurt Am Wörthersee, Austria.
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada.
| | - David G Behm
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Shahab Alizadeh
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
- Human Performance Lab, Department of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Martin Hillebrecht
- University Sports Center, Carl Von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Konrad
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
- University Sports Center, Carl Von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Klaus Wirth
- University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt, Vienna, Austria
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Warneke K, Lohmann LH, Lima CD, Hollander K, Konrad A, Zech A, Nakamura M, Wirth K, Keiner M, Behm DG. Physiology of Stretch-Mediated Hypertrophy and Strength Increases: A Narrative Review. Sports Med 2023; 53:2055-2075. [PMID: 37556026 PMCID: PMC10587333 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-023-01898-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
Increasing muscle strength and cross-sectional area is of crucial importance to improve or maintain physical function in musculoskeletal rehabilitation and sports performance. Decreases in muscular performance are experienced in phases of reduced physical activity or immobilization. These decrements highlight the need for alternative, easily accessible training regimens for a sedentary population to improve rehabilitation and injury prevention routines. Commonly, muscle hypertrophy and strength increases are associated with resistance training, typically performed in a training facility. Mechanical tension, which is usually induced with resistance machines and devices, is known to be an important factor that stimulates the underlying signaling pathways to enhance protein synthesis. Findings from animal studies suggest an alternative means to induce mechanical tension to enhance protein synthesis, and therefore muscle hypertrophy by inducing high-volume stretching. Thus, this narrative review discusses mechanical tension-induced physiological adaptations and their impact on muscle hypertrophy and strength gains. Furthermore, research addressing stretch-induced hypertrophy is critically analyzed. Derived from animal research, the stretching literature exploring the impact of static stretching on morphological and functional adaptations was reviewed and critically discussed. No studies have investigated the underlying physiological mechanisms in humans yet, and thus the underlying mechanisms remain speculative and must be discussed in the light of animal research. However, studies that reported functional and morphological increases in humans commonly used stretching durations of > 30 min per session of the plantar flexors, indicating the importance of high stretching volume, if the aim is to increase muscle mass and maximum strength. Therefore, the practical applicability seems limited to settings without access to resistance training (e.g., in an immobilized state at the start of rehabilitation), as resistance training seems to be more time efficient. Nevertheless, further research is needed to generate evidence in different human populations (athletes, sedentary individuals, and rehabilitation patients) and to quantify stretching intensity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Warneke
- Institute for Exercise, Sport and Health, Leuphana University, Universitätsallee 1, 21335, Lüneburg, Deutschland, Germany.
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada.
- Institute of Sport Science, Alpen-Adria University Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt, Germany.
| | - Lars H Lohmann
- University Sports Center, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Camila D Lima
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
| | - Karsten Hollander
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Konrad
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sport and Health, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Astrid Zech
- Department of Human Motion Science and Exercise Physiology, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Masatoshi Nakamura
- Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Nishi Kyushu University, Ozaki, Kanzaki, Saga, Japan
| | - Klaus Wirth
- Institute of Sport Science, University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt, Wiener Neustadt, Austria
| | - Michael Keiner
- Department of Sport Science, German University of Health and Sport, Ismaning, Germany
| | - David G Behm
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
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Geusebroek G, van Dieën JH, Hoozemans MJM, Noort W, Houdijk H, Maas H. Constant force muscle stretching induces greater acute deformations and changes in passive mechanical properties compared to constant length stretching. J Biomech 2023; 154:111594. [PMID: 37182406 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2023.111594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Stretching is applied to lengthen shortened muscles in pathological conditions such as joint contractures. We investigated (i) the acute effects of different types of stretching, i.e. constant length (CL) and constant force (CF) stretching, on acute deformations and changes in passive mechanical properties of medial gastrocnemius muscle (MG) and (ii) the association of acute muscle-tendon deformations or changes in mechanical properties with the impulse or maximal strain of stretching. Forty-eight hindlimbs from 13 male and 12 female Wistar rats (13 weeks old, respectively 424.6 ± 35.5 and 261.8 ± 15.6 g) were divided into six groups (n = 8 each). The MG was initially stretched to a length at which the force was 75%, 95%, or 115% of the force corresponding to estimated maximal dorsiflexion and held at either CF or CL for 30 min. Before and after the stretching protocol, the MG peak force and peak stiffness were assessed by lengthening the passive muscle to the length corresponding to maximal ankle dorsiflexion. Also, the muscle belly length and tendon length were measured. CF stretching affected peak force, peak stiffness, muscle belly length, and tendon length more than CL stretching (p < 0.01). Impulse was associated only with the decrease in peak force, while maximal strain was associated with the decrease in peak force, peak stiffness, and the increase in muscle belly length. We conclude that CF stretching results in greater acute deformations and changes in mechanical properties than CL stretching, which appears to be dependent predominantly on the differences in imposed maximal strain.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Geusebroek
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, The Netherlands
| | - J H van Dieën
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, The Netherlands
| | - M J M Hoozemans
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, The Netherlands
| | - W Noort
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, The Netherlands
| | - H Houdijk
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - H Maas
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, The Netherlands.
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Hinks A, Jacob K, Mashouri P, Medak KD, Franchi MV, Wright DC, Brown SHM, Power GA. Influence of weighted downhill running training on serial sarcomere number and work loop performance in the rat soleus. Biol Open 2022; 11:276077. [PMID: 35876382 PMCID: PMC9346294 DOI: 10.1242/bio.059491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased serial sarcomere number (SSN) has been observed in rats following downhill running training due to the emphasis on active lengthening contractions; however, little is known about the influence on dynamic contractile function. Therefore, we employed 4 weeks of weighted downhill running training in rats, then assessed soleus SSN and work loop performance. We hypothesised trained rats would produce greater net work output during work loops due to a greater SSN. Thirty-one Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned to a training or sedentary control group. Weight was added during downhill running via a custom-made vest, progressing from 5–15% body mass. Following sacrifice, the soleus was dissected, and a force-length relationship was constructed. Work loops (cyclic muscle length changes) were then performed about optimal muscle length (LO) at 1.5–3-Hz cycle frequencies and 1–7-mm length changes. Muscles were then fixed in formalin at LO. Fascicle lengths and sarcomere lengths were measured to calculate SSN. Intramuscular collagen content and crosslinking were quantified via a hydroxyproline content and pepsin-solubility assay. Trained rats had longer fascicle lengths (+13%), greater SSN (+8%), and a less steep passive force-length curve than controls (P<0.05). There were no differences in collagen parameters (P>0.05). Net work output was greater (+78–209%) in trained than control rats for the 1.5-Hz work loops at 1 and 3-mm length changes (P<0.05), however, net work output was more related to maximum specific force (R2=0.17-0.48, P<0.05) than SSN (R2=0.03-0.07, P=0.17-0.86). Therefore, contrary to our hypothesis, training-induced sarcomerogenesis likely contributed little to the improvements in work loop performance. This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper. Summary: An investigation of adaptations in mechanical function induced by a novel method of weighted downhill running training in rats, and the connections to adaptations in muscle architecture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avery Hinks
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, College of Biological Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Kaitlyn Jacob
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, College of Biological Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Parastoo Mashouri
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, College of Biological Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Kyle D Medak
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, College of Biological Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Martino V Franchi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Neuromuscular Physiology Laboratory, University of Padua, Padua 35122, Italy
| | - David C Wright
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, College of Biological Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.,School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Stephen H M Brown
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, College of Biological Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Geoffrey A Power
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, College of Biological Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
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Hinks A, Franchi MV, Power GA. The influence of longitudinal muscle fascicle growth on mechanical function. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2022; 133:87-103. [DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00114.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Skeletal muscle has the remarkable ability to remodel and adapt, such as the increase in serial sarcomere number (SSN) or fascicle length (FL) observed after overstretching a muscle. This type of remodelling is termed longitudinal muscle fascicle growth, and its impact on biomechanical function has been of interest since the 1960s due to its clinical applications in muscle strain injury, muscle spasticity, and sarcopenia. Despite simplified hypotheses on how longitudinal muscle fascicle growth might influence mechanical function, existing literature presents conflicting results partly due to a breadth of methodologies. The purpose of this review is to outline what is currently known about the influence of longitudinal muscle fascicle growth on mechanical function and suggest future directions to address current knowledge gaps and methodological limitations. Various interventions indicate longitudinal muscle fascicle growth can increase the optimal muscle length for active force, but whether the whole force-length relationship widens has been less investigated. Future research should also explore the ability for longitudinal fascicle growth to broaden the torque-angle relationship's plateau region, and the relation to increased force during shortening. Without a concurrent increase in intramuscular collagen, longitudinal muscle fascicle growth also reduces passive tension at long muscle lengths; further research is required to understand whether this translates to increased joint range of motion. Lastly, some evidence suggests longitudinal fascicle growth can increase maximum shortening velocity and peak isotonic power, however, there has yet to be direct assessment of these measures in a neurologically intact model of longitudinal muscle fascicle growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avery Hinks
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Martino V. Franchi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences,, University of Padua, Padova, Veneto, Italy
| | - Geoffrey A. Power
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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Kruse A, Rivares C, Weide G, Tilp M, Jaspers RT. Stimuli for Adaptations in Muscle Length and the Length Range of Active Force Exertion-A Narrative Review. Front Physiol 2021; 12:742034. [PMID: 34690815 PMCID: PMC8531727 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.742034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment strategies and training regimens, which induce longitudinal muscle growth and increase the muscles’ length range of active force exertion, are important to improve muscle function and to reduce muscle strain injuries in clinical populations and in athletes with limited muscle extensibility. Animal studies have shown several specific loading strategies resulting in longitudinal muscle fiber growth by addition of sarcomeres in series. Currently, such strategies are also applied to humans in order to induce similar adaptations. However, there is no clear scientific evidence that specific strategies result in longitudinal growth of human muscles. Therefore, the question remains what triggers longitudinal muscle growth in humans. The aim of this review was to identify strategies that induce longitudinal human muscle growth. For this purpose, literature was reviewed and summarized with regard to the following topics: (1) Key determinants of typical muscle length and the length range of active force exertion; (2) Information on typical muscle growth and the effects of mechanical loading on growth and adaptation of muscle and tendinous tissues in healthy animals and humans; (3) The current knowledge and research gaps on the regulation of longitudinal muscle growth; and (4) Potential strategies to induce longitudinal muscle growth. The following potential strategies and important aspects that may positively affect longitudinal muscle growth were deduced: (1) Muscle length at which the loading is performed seems to be decisive, i.e., greater elongations after active or passive mechanical loading at long muscle length are expected; (2) Concentric, isometric and eccentric exercises may induce longitudinal muscle growth by stimulating different muscular adaptations (i.e., increases in fiber cross-sectional area and/or fiber length). Mechanical loading intensity also plays an important role. All three training strategies may increase tendon stiffness, but whether and how these changes may influence muscle growth remains to be elucidated. (3) The approach to combine stretching with activation seems promising (e.g., static stretching and electrical stimulation, loaded inter-set stretching) and warrants further research. Finally, our work shows the need for detailed investigation of the mechanisms of growth of pennate muscles, as those may longitudinally grow by both trophy and addition of sarcomeres in series.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika Kruse
- Department of Biomechanics, Training, and Movement Science, Institute of Human Movement Science, Sport and Health, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Cintia Rivares
- Laboratory for Myology, Department of Human Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Guido Weide
- Laboratory for Myology, Department of Human Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Sciences, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Markus Tilp
- Department of Biomechanics, Training, and Movement Science, Institute of Human Movement Science, Sport and Health, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Richard T Jaspers
- Laboratory for Myology, Department of Human Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Crites S, Joumaa V, Rios JL, Sawatsky A, Hart DA, Reimer RA, Herzog W. Moderate aerobic exercise, but not dietary prebiotic fibre, attenuates losses to mechanical property integrity of tail tendons in a rat model of diet-induced obesity. J Biomech 2021; 129:110798. [PMID: 34700144 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2021.110798] [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: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the alterations with obesity, and the effects of moderate aerobic exercise or prebiotic dietary-fibre supplementation on the mechanical and biochemical properties of the tail tendon in a rat model of high-fat/high-sucrose (HFS) diet-induced obesity. Thirty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized to chow (n = 8) or HFS (n = 24) diets. After 12-weeks, the HFS fed rats were further randomized into sedentary (HFS sedentary, n = 8), exercise (HFS + E, n = 8) or prebiotic fibre supplementation (HFS + F, n = 8) groups. After another 12-weeks, rats were sacrificed, and one tail tendon was isolated and tested. Stress-relaxation and stretch-to-failure tests were performed to determine mechanical properties (peak, steady-state, yield and failure stresses, Young's modulus, and yield and failure strains) of the tendons. The hydroxyproline content was also analyzed. The HFS sedentary and HFS + F groups had higher final body masses and fat percentages compared to the chow and HFS + E groups. Yield strain was reduced in the HFS sedentary rats compared to the chow rats. Peak and steady-state stresses, failure strain, Young's modulus, and hydroxyproline content were not different across groups. Although the HFS + E group showed higher failure stress, yield stress, and yield strain compared to the HFS sedentary group, HFS + F animals did not produce differences in the properties of the tail tendon compared to the HFS sedentary group. These results indicate that exposure to a HFS diet led to a reduction in the yield strain of the tail tendon and aerobic exercise, but not fibre supplementation, attenuated these diet-related alterations to tendon integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Crites
- Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Venus Joumaa
- Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada; McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
| | - Jaqueline L Rios
- Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada; McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada; Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherland
| | - Andrew Sawatsky
- Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada; McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - David A Hart
- Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada; McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Raylene A Reimer
- Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada; McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Walter Herzog
- Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada; McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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Pradines M, Ghedira M, Portero R, Masson I, Marciniak C, Hicklin D, Hutin E, Portero P, Gracies JM, Bayle N. Ultrasound Structural Changes in Triceps Surae After a 1-Year Daily Self-stretch Program: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial in Chronic Hemiparesis. Neurorehabil Neural Repair 2019; 33:245-259. [PMID: 30900512 DOI: 10.1177/1545968319829455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The effects of long-term stretching (>6 months) in hemiparesis are unknown. This prospective, randomized, single-blind controlled trial compared changes in architectural and clinical parameters in plantar flexors of individuals with chronic hemiparesis following a 1-year guided self-stretch program, compared with conventional rehabilitation alone. METHODS Adults with chronic stroke-induced hemiparesis (time since lesion >1 year) were randomized into 1 of 2, 1-year rehabilitation programs: conventional therapy (CONV) supplemented with the Guided Self-rehabilitation Contract (GSC) program, or CONV alone. In the GSC group, specific lower limb muscles, including plantar flexors, were identified for a diary-based treatment utilizing daily, high-load, home self-stretching. Blinded assessments included (1) ultrasonographic measurements of soleus and medial gastrocnemius (MG) fascicle length and thickness, with change in soleus fascicle length as primary outcome; (2) maximum passive muscle extensibility (XV1, Tardieu Scale); (3) 10-m maximal barefoot ambulation speed. RESULTS In all, 23 individuals (10 women; mean age [SD], 56 [±12] years; time since lesion, 9 [±8] years) were randomized into either the CONV (n = 11) or GSC (n = 12) group. After 1 year, all significant between-group differences favored the GSC group: soleus fascicle length, +18.1mm [9.3; 29.9]; MG fascicle length, +6.3mm [3.5; 9.1]; soleus thickness, +4.8mm [3.0; 7.7]; XV1 soleus, +4.1° [3.1; 7.2]; XV1 gastrocnemius, +7.0° [2.1; 11.9]; and ambulation speed, +0.07m/s [+0.02; +0.16]. CONCLUSIONS In chronic hemiparesis, daily self-stretch of the soleus and gastrocnemius over 1 year using GSC combined with conventional rehabilitation increased muscle fascicle length, extensibility, and ambulation speed more than conventional rehabilitation alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maud Pradines
- 1 EA 7377 BIOTN, Université Paris-Est Créteil (UPEC), France.,2 Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Créteil, France
| | - Mouna Ghedira
- 1 EA 7377 BIOTN, Université Paris-Est Créteil (UPEC), France.,2 Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Créteil, France
| | - Raphaël Portero
- 1 EA 7377 BIOTN, Université Paris-Est Créteil (UPEC), France
| | - Ingrid Masson
- 1 EA 7377 BIOTN, Université Paris-Est Créteil (UPEC), France
| | - Christina Marciniak
- 3 Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, and the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Dawn Hicklin
- 4 Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Emilie Hutin
- 1 EA 7377 BIOTN, Université Paris-Est Créteil (UPEC), France.,2 Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Créteil, France
| | - Pierre Portero
- 1 EA 7377 BIOTN, Université Paris-Est Créteil (UPEC), France
| | - Jean-Michel Gracies
- 1 EA 7377 BIOTN, Université Paris-Est Créteil (UPEC), France.,2 Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Créteil, France
| | - Nicolas Bayle
- 1 EA 7377 BIOTN, Université Paris-Est Créteil (UPEC), France.,2 Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Créteil, France
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Pereira BA, Lister NL, Hashimoto K, Teng L, Flandes-Iparraguirre M, Eder A, Sanchez-Herrero A, Niranjan B, Frydenberg M, Papargiris MM, Lawrence MG, Taylor RA, Hutmacher DW, Ellem SJ, Risbridger GP, De-Juan-Pardo EM. Tissue engineered human prostate microtissues reveal key role of mast cell-derived tryptase in potentiating cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF)-induced morphometric transition in vitro. Biomaterials 2019; 197:72-85. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2018.12.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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American Society of Biomechanics Journal of Biomechanics Award 2017: High-acceleration training during growth increases optimal muscle fascicle lengths in an avian bipedal model. J Biomech 2018; 80:1-7. [PMID: 30266195 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2018.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Sprinters have been found to possess longer muscle fascicles than non-sprinters, which is thought to be beneficial for high-acceleration movements based on muscle force-length-velocity properties. However, it is unknown if their morphology is a result of genetics or training during growth. To explore the influence of training during growth, thirty guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) were split into exercise and sedentary groups. Exercise birds were housed in a large pen and underwent high-acceleration training during their growth period (age 4-14 weeks), while sedentary birds were housed in small pens to restrict movement. Morphological analyses (muscle mass, PCSA, optimal fascicle length, pennation angle) of a hip extensor muscle (ILPO) and plantarflexor muscle (LG), which differ in architecture and function during running, were performed post-mortem. Muscle mass for both ILPO and LG was not different between the two groups. Exercise birds were found to have ∼12% and ∼14% longer optimal fascicle lengths in ILPO and LG, respectively, than the sedentary group despite having ∼3% shorter limbs. From this study we can conclude that optimal fascicle lengths can increase as a result of high-acceleration training during growth. This increase in optimal fascicle length appears to occur irrespective of muscle architecture and in the absence of a change in muscle mass. Our findings suggest high-acceleration training during growth results in muscles that prioritize adaptations for lower strain and shortening velocity over isometric strength. Thus, the adaptations observed suggest these muscles produce higher force during dynamic contractions, which is beneficial for movements requiring large power outputs.
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Medeiros DM, Martini TF. Chronic effect of different types of stretching on ankle dorsiflexion range of motion: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Foot (Edinb) 2018; 34:28-35. [PMID: 29223884 DOI: 10.1016/j.foot.2017.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Revised: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The calf muscles are one of the muscle groups that have the most need for adequate flexibility since they are deeply related to normal lower limb function. When the goal is to increase flexibility, the most commonly used technique is stretching. However, it remains unknown which stretching technique and parameters are the most effective to increase flexibility. Hence, the aim of the current review was to investigate the influence of chronic stretching on ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (DFROM) of healthy individuals. The search strategy included MEDLINE, PEDro, Cochrane CENTRAL, LILACS, and manual search from inception to February 2017. Randomized and controlled clinical trials that have analyzed the influence of chronic stretching on DFROM were included. On the other hand, studies with special populations (children, and people with any dysfunction/disease), and articles with no control group were excluded. Twenty studies were included out of 493 identified. The meta-analysis was performed according to the stretching technique used in the study. The results show that static stretching (5.17°; 95% CI: 4.39-5.95; I2: 0%) and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (4.32°; 95% CI: 1.59-7.04; I2: 46%) are effective in increasing DFROM. Ballistic stretching did not show positive results to increase DFROM (3.77°; 95% CI: -0.03 to 7.56; I2: 46%). In conclusion, chronic stretching is an effective way of improving ankle mobility in healthy individuals, especially when it contains a static component.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diulian Muniz Medeiros
- Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Graduate Program of Rehabilitation Sciences, Physical Therapy Department, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
| | - Tamara Fenner Martini
- Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Graduate Program of Rehabilitation Sciences, Physical Therapy Department, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
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Jang S, Lim J, Lee O. Phase-contrast hard X-ray microscopy using synchrotron radiation for the properties of skeletal muscle in mouse hind limbs. Microsc Res Tech 2017; 80:1221-1228. [DOI: 10.1002/jemt.22920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2017] [Revised: 06/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sanghun Jang
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Nursing and Health Science; Gimcheon University; 214, Daehak-ro, Gimcheon City Gyeongbuk 39528 South Korea
| | - Jaehong Lim
- Pohang Accelerator Laboratory; Industrial Technology Convergence Center; POSTECH, 80, Jigokro-127-beongil, Nam-Gu, Pohang Gyeongbuk 37673 South Korea
| | - Onseok Lee
- Department of Medical IT Engineering, College of Medical Sciences; Soonchunhyang University; 22, Soonchunhyang-ro, Asan City Chungnam 31538 South Korea
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13
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Medeiros DM, Lima CS. Influence of chronic stretching on muscle performance: Systematic review. Hum Mov Sci 2017; 54:220-229. [PMID: 28527424 DOI: 10.1016/j.humov.2017.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Revised: 05/06/2017] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the current study was to investigate the influence of chronic stretching on muscle performance (MP) by a systematic review. The search strategy included MEDLINE, PEDro, Cochrane CENTRAL, LILACS, and manual search from inception to June 2016. Randomized and controlled clinical trials, non-randomized, and single group studies that have analyzed the influence of flexibility training (FT) (using any stretching technique) on MP were included. Differently, studies with special populations (children, elderly, and people with any dysfunction/disease), and articles that have used FT protocols shorter than three weeks or 12 sessions were excluded. The MP assessment could have been performed by functional tests (e.g. jump, sprint, stretch-shortening cycle tasks), isometric contractions, and/or isotonic contractions. Twenty-eight studies were included out of 513. Seven studies evaluated MP by stretch-shortening cycle tasks, Ten studies evaluated MP by isometric contractions, and 13 studies assessed MP by isotonic contractions. We were unable to perform a meta-analysis due to the high heterogeneity among the included studies. In an individual study level analysis, we identified that 14 studies found positive effects of chronic stretching on MP. The improvements were observed only in functional tests and isotonic contractions, isometric contractions were not affected by FT. Therefore, FT might have an influence on dynamic MP. However, more studies are necessary to confirm whether FT can positively affect MP.
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Affiliation(s)
- D M Medeiros
- Exercise Laboratory Research, School of Physical Education, Physiotherapy, and Dance, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - C S Lima
- Exercise Laboratory Research, School of Physical Education, Physiotherapy, and Dance, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
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14
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Powers K, Joumaa V, Jinha A, Moo EK, Smith IC, Nishikawa K, Herzog W. Titin force enhancement following active stretch of skinned skeletal muscle fibres. J Exp Biol 2017. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.153502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
In actively stretched skeletal muscle sarcomeres, titin-based force is enhanced, increasing the stiffness of active sarcomeres. Titin force enhancement in sarcomeres is vastly reduced in mdm, a genetic mutation with a deletion in titin. Whether loss of titin force enhancement is associated with compensatory mechanisms at higher structural levels of organization, such as single fibres or entire muscles, is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine whether mechanical deficiencies in titin force enhancement are also observed at the fibre level, and whether mechanisms compensate for the loss of titin force enhancement. Single skinned fibres from control and mutant mice were stretched actively and passively beyond filament overlap to observe titin-based force. Mutant fibres generated lower contractile stress (force divided by cross-sectional area) than control fibres. Titin force enhancement was observed in control fibres stretched beyond filament overlap, but was overshadowed in mutant fibres by an abundance of collagen and high variability in mechanics. However, titin force enhancement could be measured in all control fibers and most mutant fibres following short stretches, accounting for ∼25% of the total stress following active stretch. Our results show that the partial loss of titin force enhancement in myofibrils is not preserved in all mutant fibres and this mutation likely affects fibres differentially within a muscle. An increase in collagen helps to reestablish total force at long sarcomere lengths with the loss in titin force enhancement in some mutant fibres, increasing the overall strength of mutant fibres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krysta Powers
- Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Human Performance Laboratory, KNB 404, 2500 University Dr. NW, Calgary, AB Canada, T2N 1N4
| | - Venus Joumaa
- Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Human Performance Laboratory, KNB 404, 2500 University Dr. NW, Calgary, AB Canada, T2N 1N4
| | - Azim Jinha
- Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Human Performance Laboratory, KNB 404, 2500 University Dr. NW, Calgary, AB Canada, T2N 1N4
| | - Eng Kuan Moo
- Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Human Performance Laboratory, KNB 404, 2500 University Dr. NW, Calgary, AB Canada, T2N 1N4
| | - Ian Curtis Smith
- Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Human Performance Laboratory, KNB 404, 2500 University Dr. NW, Calgary, AB Canada, T2N 1N4
| | - Kiisa Nishikawa
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, 617 S. Beaver Street, Biological Sciences (Building 21), Flagstaff, AZ USA, 86001
| | - Walter Herzog
- Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Human Performance Laboratory, KNB 404, 2500 University Dr. NW, Calgary, AB Canada, T2N 1N4
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15
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Curzi D. Ultrastructural study of myotendinous junction plasticity: from disuse to exercise. SPORT SCIENCES FOR HEALTH 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s11332-016-0301-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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