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Lazarczuk SL, Collings TJ, Hams AH, Timmins RG, Opar DA, Edwards S, Shield AJ, Barrett RS, Bourne MN. Biceps femoris long head muscle and aponeurosis geometry in males with and without a history of hamstring strain injury. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2024; 34:e14619. [PMID: 38572910 DOI: 10.1111/sms.14619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Hamstring strain injuries (HSIs) commonly affect the proximal biceps femoris long head (BFlh) musculotendinous junction. Biomechanical modeling suggests narrow proximal BFlh aponeuroses and large muscle-to-aponeurosis width ratios increase localized tissue strains and presumably risk of HSI. This study aimed to determine if BFlh muscle and proximal aponeurosis geometry differed between limbs with and without a history of HSI. METHODS Twenty-six recreationally active males with (n = 13) and without (n = 13) a history of unilateral HSI in the last 24 months underwent magnetic resonance imaging of both thighs. BFlh muscle and proximal aponeurosis cross-sectional areas, length, volume, and interface area between muscle and aponeurosis were extracted. Previously injured limbs were compared to uninjured contralateral and control limbs for discrete variables and ratios, and along the relative length of tissues using statistical parametric mapping. RESULTS Previously injured limbs displayed significantly smaller muscle-to-aponeurosis volume ratios (p = 0.029, Wilcoxon effect size (ES) = 0.43) and larger proximal BFlh aponeurosis volumes (p = 0.019, ES = 0.46) than control limbs with no history of HSI. No significant differences were found between previously injured and uninjured contralateral limbs for any outcome measure (p = 0.216-1.000, ES = 0.01-0.36). CONCLUSIONS Aponeurosis geometry differed between limbs with and without a history of HSI. The significantly larger BFlh proximal aponeuroses and smaller muscle-to-aponeurosis volume ratios in previously injured limbs could alter the strain experienced in muscle adjacent to the musculotendinous junction during active lengthening. Future research is required to determine if geometric differences influence the risk of re-injury and whether they can be altered via targeted training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L Lazarczuk
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
- Griffith Centre of Biomedical and Rehabilitation Engineering (GCORE), Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Tyler J Collings
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
- Griffith Centre of Biomedical and Rehabilitation Engineering (GCORE), Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Andrea H Hams
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
- Griffith Centre of Biomedical and Rehabilitation Engineering (GCORE), Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ryan G Timmins
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Sports Performance, Recovery, Injury and New Technologies (SPRINT) Research Centre, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David A Opar
- Sports Performance, Recovery, Injury and New Technologies (SPRINT) Research Centre, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Suzi Edwards
- Discipline of Exercise and Sport Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Anthony J Shield
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Rod S Barrett
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
- Griffith Centre of Biomedical and Rehabilitation Engineering (GCORE), Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Matthew N Bourne
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
- Griffith Centre of Biomedical and Rehabilitation Engineering (GCORE), Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
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B Nielsen L, B Svensson R, U Fredskild N, H Mertz K, Magnusson SP, Kjaer M, Bayer ML. Chronic changes in muscle architecture and aponeurosis structure following calf muscle strain injuries. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2023; 33:2585-2597. [PMID: 37621063 DOI: 10.1111/sms.14472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Muscle strain injuries in the human calf muscles are frequent sports injuries with high recurrence. Potential structural and functional changes in the medial head of the musculus gastrocnemius (GM) and the associated aponeurosis are not well documented. PURPOSE To test whether a GM muscle strain injury affects muscle fascicle length, pennation angle, and the morphology of the deep aponeurosis at rest and during muscle contraction long time after the injury. Additionally, electromyography (EMG) of the GM and the soleus muscle during a unilateral heel rise was measured in the injured and uninjured calf. METHODS GM fascicle length, pennation angle, and aponeurosis thickness was analyzed on dynamic ultrasonography (US) recordings in 10 participants with a chronic calf strain. In addition, US images taken across the distal portion and mid-belly of the GM were analyzed at three different ankle positions. EMG recordings were obtained during a unilateral heel rise. RESULTS The pennation angle of the injured distal GM was significantly larger compared to the uninjured GM in the contracted, but not the relaxed state. Pennation angle increased more in the injured compared to the uninjured GM during contraction. Fascicle length was shorter in the most distal portion of the injured GM. Fascicles at the distal portion of the injured GM showed a pronounced curvilinear shape as the muscle contracted and the aponeurosis was enlarged in the injured compared to the uninjured GM. The ratio between GM and soleus EMG activity showed a significantly higher relative soleus activity in the injured compared to the healthy calf. CONCLUSION The greater change in pennation angle and curvilinear fascicle shape during contraction suggest that a long-term consequence after a muscle strain injury is that some muscle fibers at the distal GM are not actively engaged. The significantly enlarged aponeurosis indicates a substantial and long-lasting connective tissue involvement following strain injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise B Nielsen
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery M, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Healthy Aging, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rene B Svensson
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery M, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Healthy Aging, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Niels U Fredskild
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery M, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Healthy Aging, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kenneth H Mertz
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery M, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Healthy Aging, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - S Peter Magnusson
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery M, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Healthy Aging, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Physical Therapy, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael Kjaer
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery M, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Healthy Aging, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Monika L Bayer
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery M, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Healthy Aging, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Soga T, Yamaguchi S, Inami T, Saito H, Hakariya N, Nakaichi N, Shinohara S, Sasabe K, Nakamura H, Laddawong T, Akiyama K, Hirose N. Hamstring Activity Before and After Break-Point Angle Calculated By Smartphone Application During the Nordic Hamstring Exercise. Int J Sports Phys Ther 2023; 18:1290-1298. [PMID: 39282209 PMCID: PMC11401651 DOI: 10.26603/001c.89271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Previous studies have reported a gradual decrease in biceps femoris (BF) electromyography (EMG) activity after the break-point angle (BPA) during the Nordic hamstring exercise (NHE). However, no investigation has been conducted on BF EMG activity before and after BPA as calculated using a smartphone application (Nordic Angle app). HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE The aim of this study was to investigate the BF EMG activity before and after BPA, as calculated using the Nordic Angle app. The hypotheses were that BF EMG activity would peak near the BPA and gradually diminish afterward. METHODS After a warm-up, participants performed three repetitions of prone leg curls to discern maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) of the hamstrings. The peak value of the BF EMG activity during the prone leg curl was used to convert BF EMG activity during NHE to %MVIC. BPA during NHE was calculated using the Nordic Angle app by analyzing a movie recorded with an iPhone camera. Additionally, the knee flexion angle during NHE was determined using two-dimensional motion analysis software based on video data. To compare EMG activity before and after BPA calculated by the Nordic Angle app, the knee flexion angle was divided into seven phases: 10-15° before BPA, 5-10° before BPA, BPA ± 5°, 5-10° after BPA, 10-15° after BPA, 15-20° after BPA, and 20-25° after BPA. RESULTS There was no significant difference between the BPA of the Nordic angle and the knee flexion angle at peak BF EMG activity (d = 0.13, p = 0.678). The BF EMG activity at 20-25° after BPA was significantly lower than the BF EMG activity at BPA ± 5° (d = 0.87, p = 0.011). CONCLUSIONS To prevent the recurrence of hamstring injuries, it is important to incorporate knee flexion exercises that enhance BF EMG activity at 15-35° of knee flexion (0° indicates a fully extended knee). Thus, it is recommended to keep the BPA of the Nordic Angle within 35° to effectively prevent recurrent hamstring injuries during NHE. Level of evidence 3b.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiaki Soga
- Graduate School of Sport Sciences Waseda University
- Graduate School of Engineering and Science Shibaura Institute of Technology
- Japan Society for the Promotion of Science
| | | | | | - Hiromi Saito
- Graduate School of Sport Sciences Waseda University
| | | | | | | | - Koki Sasabe
- Graduate School of Sport Sciences Waseda University
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Presland JD, Tofari PJ, Timmins RG, Kidgell DJ, Opar DA. Reliability of corticospinal excitability and intracortical inhibition in biceps femoris during different contraction modes. Eur J Neurosci 2023; 57:91-105. [PMID: 36382424 PMCID: PMC10107877 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15868] [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] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the test-retest reliability of a range of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) outcomes in the biceps femoris during isometric, eccentric and concentric contractions. Corticospinal excitability (active motor threshold 120% [AMT120%] and area under recruitment curve [AURC]), short- and long-interval intracortical inhibition (SICI and LICI) and intracortical facilitation (ICF) were assessed from the biceps femoris in 10 participants (age 26.3 ± 6.0 years; height 180.2 ± 6.6 cm, body mass 77.2 ± 8.0 kg) in three sessions. Single- and paired-pulse stimuli were delivered under low-level muscle activity (5% ± 2% of maximal isometric root mean squared surface electromyography [rmsEMG]) during isometric, concentric and eccentric contractions. Participants were provided visual feedback on their levels of rmsEMG during all contractions. Single-pulse outcomes measured during isometric contractions (AURC, AMT110%, AMT120%, AMT130%, AMT150%, AMT170%) demonstrated fair to excellent reliability (ICC range, .51 to .92; CV%, 21% to 37%), whereas SICI, LICI and ICF demonstrated good to excellent reliability (ICC range, .62 to .80; CV%, 19 to 42%). Single-pulse outcomes measured during concentric contractions demonstrated excellent reliability (ICC range, .75 to .96; CV%, 15% to 34%), whereas SICI, LICI and ICF demonstrated good to excellent reliability (ICC range, .65 to .76; CV%, 16% to 71%). Single-pulse outcomes during eccentric contractions demonstrated fair to excellent reliability (ICC range, .56 to .96; CV%, 16% to 41%), whereas SICI, LICI and ICF demonstrated good to excellent (ICC range, .67 to .86; CV%, 20% to 42%). This study found that both single- and paired-pulse TMS outcomes can be measured from the biceps femoris muscle across all contraction modes with fair to excellent reliability. However, coefficient of variation values were typically greater than the smallest worthwhile change which may make tracking physiological changes in these variables difficult without moderate to large effect sizes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel D Presland
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul J Tofari
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Sports Performance, Recovery, Injury & New Technologies (SPRINT) Research Centre, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ryan G Timmins
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Sports Performance, Recovery, Injury & New Technologies (SPRINT) Research Centre, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Dawson J Kidgell
- School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David A Opar
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Sports Performance, Recovery, Injury & New Technologies (SPRINT) Research Centre, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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5
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Buhmann R, Trajano GS, Kerr GK, Shield AJ. Lower knee flexion and hip extension rate of torque development in athletes with previous hamstring strain injury. J Sports Sci 2021; 40:534-541. [PMID: 34787048 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2021.2003981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Persistent deficits in strength and voluntary activation have been observed in athletes with a history of hamstring strain injury. The mechanisms contributing to these deficits are poorly understood and consequently may not be appropriately addressed during rehabilitation. This study aimed to investigate the impact of intended knee flexor contraction mode (concentric, eccentric or isometric) on the rate of torque development and surface electromyography (sEMG) rise in athletes with and without a history of unilateral hamstring strain injury. The impact of the previous injury on hip extensor rate of torque development was also investigated. Previously injured limbs exhibited a slower rate of torque development (mean difference = -31%, p = 0.02, Cohen's d = 0.62) and biceps femoris rate of sEMG rise (mean difference = -181% · s-1, p = 0.003, Cohen's d = 1.10) during intended eccentric knee flexor contractions compared with control limbs. Previously injured (mean difference = -29%, p = 0.01, Cohen's d = 0.85) and contralateral uninjured limbs (mean difference = -31%, p = 0.007, Cohen's d = 0.73) exhibited a slower rate of torque development during isometric hip extensor contractions compared with control limbs. These findings may highlight lower levels of descending input to hamstring motoneurons in previously injured athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Buhmann
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, Australia
| | - Gabriel S Trajano
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Graham K Kerr
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Anthony J Shield
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
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6
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Increased short interval intracortical inhibition in participants with previous hamstring strain injury. Eur J Appl Physiol 2021; 122:357-369. [PMID: 34729636 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-021-04839-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cortical mechanisms may contribute to weakness in participants with previous hamstring strain injury. This study aims to examine intra-cortical inhibition (SICI) and corticospinal excitability in previously injured participants. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, TMS was used to examine SICI, silent period, silent period: MEP ratios and area under the stimulus response curve in the biceps femoris and medial hamstrings. Comparisons were made between participants with (n = 10) and without (n = 10) previous hamstring strain injury. Motor threshold and isometric knee flexor strength were also compared between participants and the relationship between strength and SICI in control and previously injured participants was examined. RESULTS Isometric knee flexor strength was lower in previously injured limbs compared with control limbs (mean difference = - 41 Nm (- 26%) [95% CI = - 80 to - 2 Nm], p = 0.04, Cohen's d = - 1.27) and contralateral uninjured limbs (mean difference = - 23 Nm (- 17%), [95% CI = - 40 to - 6 Nm], p = 0.01, Cohen's d = - 0.57). Previously injured limbs exhibited smaller responses to paired pulse stimulation (i.e. greater levels of SICI) in the biceps femoris compared with control limbs (mean difference = - 19%, [95% CI = - 34 to - 5%], p = 0.007, Cohen's d = - 1.33). Isometric knee flexor strength was associated with the level of SICI recorded in the biceps femoris in previously injured participants (coefficient = 23 Nm [95% CI = 7-40 Nm], adjusted R2 = 0.31, p = 0.01). There were no differences in markers of corticospinal excitability between previously injured and control limbs (all p > 0.24, all Cohen's d < 0.40). CONCLUSION Athletes with previous injury in the biceps femoris exhibit increased SICI in this muscle compared with control participants. Increased SICI is related to lower levels of hamstring strength, and rehabilitation programs targeting the removal of intra-cortical inhibition should be considered.
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Presland JD, Timmins RG, Maniar N, Tofari PJ, Kidgell DJ, Shield AJ, Dickson J, Opar DA. Muscle Activity and Activation in Previously Strain-Injured Lower Limbs: A Systematic Review. Sports Med 2021; 51:2311-2327. [PMID: 34309803 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-021-01487-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lower limb muscle strain injury is highly prevalent in running-based sports and is considered a risk factor for recurrent injury. It is possible that differences in muscle activity and activation in previously strain-injured limbs may contribute to the elevated risk of reinjury. OBJECTIVES To systematically review available literature investigating whether muscle activity and/or activation is different in previously strain-injured muscles compared to contralateral uninjured muscles or uninjured controls. METHODS A systematic review of literature in SPORTDiscus, MEDLINE Complete, CINAHL and Web of Science was conducted. Full-text English articles which compared indicators of neuromuscular function between injured and uninjured contralateral limbs or control groups in those with a history of muscle strain injury were included. RESULTS Twelve studies were included in the review after eligibility criteria were applied. A best evidence synthesis revealed moderate to limited evidence suggesting differences in surface electromyography (sEMG) amplitude, integrated sEMG amplitude, inter-muscle sEMG ratios and voluntary activation in injured limbs, most often during eccentric contractions. Studies utilising sprinting assessments demonstrated conflicting evidence when comparing late swing phase biceps femoris sEMG amplitude between limbs with a history of hamstring strain injury and uninjured contralateral limbs. CONCLUSIONS Differences in muscle activity and activation were observed between injured and uninjured limbs across a variety of strength assessments. The evidence supporting these differences was most often moderate or limited and was generally observed during eccentric contractions. Mostly conflicting or limited evidence was found to suggest that participants with previous hamstring strain injury demonstrate no differences in muscle activity during running tasks when compared with their uninjured counterparts or contralateral limbs. TRIAL REGISTRY PROSPERO (ID, CRD42019135681).
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel D Presland
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, 115 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy, Melbourne, VIC, 3065, Australia.
| | - Ryan G Timmins
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, 115 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy, Melbourne, VIC, 3065, Australia.,Sports Performance, Recovery, Injury and New Technologies (SPRINT) Research Centre, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Nirav Maniar
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, 115 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy, Melbourne, VIC, 3065, Australia.,Sports Performance, Recovery, Injury and New Technologies (SPRINT) Research Centre, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Paul J Tofari
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, 115 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy, Melbourne, VIC, 3065, Australia
| | - Dawson J Kidgell
- School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Anthony J Shield
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Jessica Dickson
- Library and Academic Research Services, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - David A Opar
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, 115 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy, Melbourne, VIC, 3065, Australia.,Sports Performance, Recovery, Injury and New Technologies (SPRINT) Research Centre, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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8
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Freitas SR, Mendes B, Firmino T, Correia JP, Witvrouw EE, Raúl Oliveira E, Vaz JR. Semitendinosus and biceps femoris long head active stiffness response until failure in professional footballers with vs. without previous hamstring injury. Eur J Sport Sci 2021; 22:1132-1140. [PMID: 33787449 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2021.1910347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
This study sought to examine the active stiffness of semitendinosus (ST) and biceps femoris long head (BFlh) during a knee flexor isometric contraction at 20% of maximal voluntary isometric contraction until failure in elite footballers (n=50, age: 22.3±5.3 years; height: 1.82±0.08 m; body mass: 74.7±9.0 kg). Active stiffness was assessed using ultrasound-based shear wave elastography by means of shear modulus quantification. Comparisons were performed between limbs with (n=11) vs. without (n=89) previous hamstring injury. Similar time until failure in the knee flexor fatigue task was observed between groups (p=0.401). At the start of the task, lower limbs with previous hamstring injury showed a lower BFlh active stiffness (31.0.1±10.4 kPa, p=0.023) and BFlh/ST active stiffness ratio (0.50±0.29), and no differences for ST (72.8±26.8 kPa, p=0.221) compared to lower limbs without previous hamstring injuries (BFlh: 38.0±9.6 kPa; ST: 64.0±18.4 kPa; BFlh/ST: 0.65±0.27). During the task, the ST active stiffness in both groups decreased from 80% of task time (p=0.032), in the absence of changes in BFlh active stiffness (p=0.534), resulting in an increase in BFlh/ST active stiffness from 80% of task time (p=0.029). No differences between limbs were observed during the fatigue task for all parameters (p>0.099). Future research is warranted to verify if the differences found represent an increased risk of hamstring injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro R Freitas
- CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Cruz Quebrada Dafundo, Portugal
| | - Bruno Mendes
- CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Cruz Quebrada Dafundo, Portugal
| | - Telmo Firmino
- CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Cruz Quebrada Dafundo, Portugal.,Sport Lisboa e Benfica, Human Performance Department - Health Performance, Av. Eusébio da Silva Ferreira, 1500-313 Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Escola Superior de Saúde do Alcoitão, Rua Conde Barão, 2649-506 Alcabideche, Cascais, Portugal
| | - José Pedro Correia
- CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Cruz Quebrada Dafundo, Portugal
| | | | - E Raúl Oliveira
- CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Cruz Quebrada Dafundo, Portugal
| | - João R Vaz
- CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Cruz Quebrada Dafundo, Portugal
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9
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Boyer A, Hug F, Avrillon S, Lacourpaille L. Individual differences in the distribution of activation among the hamstring muscle heads during stiff-leg Deadlift and Nordic hamstring exercises. J Sports Sci 2021; 39:1830-1837. [PMID: 33678131 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2021.1899405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to compare the distribution of activation among the three heads of the hamstring between a knee flexion-oriented exercise (Nordic hamstring) and a hip extension-oriented exercise (stiff-leg Deadlift) at the group and individual level. Data were collected for 20 participants. Muscle activation of the semimembranosus (SM), semitendinosus (ST), and biceps femoris (BF) was estimated using surface electromyography (EMG) during Nordic hamstring and stiff-leg Deadlift exercises. Although Nordic hamstring exercise induced a higher normalized RMS EMG value for BF (64.5 ± 17.4%) compared to SM (48.6 ± 14.6%; P<0.001) and ST (55.9 ± 17.4%; P < 0.001), the greatest active muscle varied between individuals. Similar interindividual differences in the greatest active muscle were found for the stiff-leg Deadlift exercise. Regarding the distribution of activation, the stiff-leg Deadlift favoured the contribution of the SM compared to ST (P < 0.001, 18/20 participants) whereas the Nordic hamstring exercise favoured the contribution of the ST compared to SM (P < 0.001, 19/20 participants). Importantly, these tasks affected the contribution of the activation of BF in different ways between individuals. The distribution of activation across the three muscles was well correlated between the two exercises (r values ≥ 0.42).
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Boyer
- University of Nantes, Movement, Interactions, Performance, Nantes, France
| | - François Hug
- University of Nantes, Movement, Interactions, Performance, Nantes, France.,The University of Queensland, NHMRC Centre of Clinical Research Excellence in Spinal Pain, Injury and Health, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Brisbane, Australia.,Institut Universitaire De France (IUF), Paris, France
| | - Simon Avrillon
- University of Nantes, Movement, Interactions, Performance, Nantes, France.,Legs & Walking Lab, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America.,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
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Vicens-Bordas J, Esteve E, Fort-Vanmeerhaeghe A, Casals M, Bandholm T, Ishøi L, Opar D, Shield A, Thorborg K. Performance changes during the off-season period in football players - Effects of age and previous hamstring injury. J Sports Sci 2020; 38:2489-2499. [PMID: 32658565 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2020.1792160] [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] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The aims of this study were to investigate changes in selected performance measures during an off-season period, their association, and the potential role of age and previous hamstring injury in semi-professional and amateur football players. Seventy-four male players (age: 25 ± 4 years, stature: 178.0 ± 6.6 cm, body mass: 74.9 ± 8.1 kg) were assessed at the beginning and end of the off-season summer-period for sprint, change-of-direction performance and eccentric hamstring strength. Small to medium increases in sprint times were observed at 5 (d = 0.26, p = 0.057), 10 (d = 0.42, p < 0.001) and 30 m (d = 0.64, p < 0.001). Small (d = -0.23, p = 0.033) improvements were observed for COD performance, and no changes in eccentric hamstring strength (d = 0.10, p = 0.317). The changes in the outcomes were not affected by age (p = 0.449 to 0.928) or previous hamstring injury (p = 0.109 to 0.995). The impaired sprint performance was not related to changes in eccentric hamstring strength (r = -0.21 to 0.03, p = 0.213 to 0.856), instead, changes in COD performance were associated with changes in eccentric hamstring strength (r = -0.42, p = 0.008).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Vicens-Bordas
- Sportclínic. Physiotherapy and Sports Training Centre , Girona, Spain.,School of Health and Sport Sciences (EUSES), Universitat de Girona , Salt, Spain.,Research Group of Clinical Anatomy, Embryology and Neuroscience (NEOMA), Department of Medical Sciences, Universitat de Girona , Girona, Spain.,Sport and Physical Activity Studies Centre (CEEAF), University of Vic - Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC) , Spain
| | - Ernest Esteve
- Sportclínic. Physiotherapy and Sports Training Centre , Girona, Spain.,School of Health and Sport Sciences (EUSES), Universitat de Girona , Salt, Spain
| | | | - Martí Casals
- Sport and Physical Activity Studies Centre (CEEAF), University of Vic - Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC) , Spain.,Sport Performance Analysis Research Group, University of Vic , Barcelona, Spain.,Medical Department, Futbol Club Barcelona , Barcelona, Spain
| | - Thomas Bandholm
- Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Research - Copenhagen (PMR-C), Department of Physical and Occupational Therapy, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Clinical Research Center, Amager-Hvidovre Hospital, Copenhagen University , Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Lasse Ishøi
- Sports Orthopedic Research Center - Copenhagen (SORC-C), Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital , Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - David Opar
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University , Melbourne, Australia
| | - Anthony Shield
- Faculty of Health, School of Exercise and Nutrition Science, Queensland University of Technology , Brisbane, Australia.,Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology , Brisbane, Australia
| | - Kristian Thorborg
- Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Research - Copenhagen (PMR-C), Department of Physical and Occupational Therapy, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Clinical Research Center, Amager-Hvidovre Hospital, Copenhagen University , Hvidovre, Denmark.,Sports Orthopedic Research Center - Copenhagen (SORC-C), Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital , Copenhagen, Denmark
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