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Sipko T, Barczyk-Pawelec K, Piksa M, Mencel J. Impact of Standing and Sitting Postures on Spinal Curvature and Muscle Mechanical Properties in Young Women: A Photogrammetric and MyotonPro Analysis. Med Sci Monit 2024; 30:e944930. [PMID: 39069714 PMCID: PMC11297353 DOI: 10.12659/msm.944930] [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: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to evaluate the effect of standing and sitting positions on spinal curvatures evaluated using projection moire and muscle tone and stiffness using the MyotonPRO hand-held device in young women. MATERIAL AND METHODS Thirty-three healthy women, aged 21 to 23 years, volunteered in the study. We used the projection moire method to examine spinal curvatures in both positions and the MyotonPRO device to measure the tone and stiffness of muscles in 3 regions. We evaluated the effects of positions (standing vs sitting), regions (cervical, thoracic, and lumbar), and side factor (right vs left) using multivariate analysis. RESULTS The sitting position significantly decreased the lumbosacral and thoracolumbar angles (P<0.001), but had no effect on the superior thoracic angle. Muscle tension and stiffness were the highest (P<0.001) in the cervical region and did not differ between positions (P>0.05) in this region. We found significantly higher muscle tone and stiffness in the thoracic and lumbar regions during sitting than during standing (P<0.001). There was symmetry in the muscle tone and the stiffness between the right and left sides of the spine. CONCLUSIONS The sitting posture decreased lumbosacral and thoracolumbar angles but increased muscle tension and stiffness in the lumbar and thoracic regions only. The symmetry of muscle tone and transverse stiffness in both positions was the normative value. This study provides insight into the adaptive physiological changes in spinal curvature and muscle mechanical properties in young women and serves as an important reference point for clinical studies of women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Sipko
- Department of Kinesiotherapy, Physiotherapy Faculty, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Barczyk-Pawelec
- Department of Kinesiotherapy, Physiotherapy Faculty, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Mirela Piksa
- Department of Kinesiotherapy, Physiotherapy Faculty, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Mencel
- Department of Kinesiology, Physiotherapy Faculty, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
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van Dam L, Terink R, van den Akker-Scheek I, Zwerver J. Intra- and inter-operator reliability of measuring compressive stiffness of the patellar tendon in volleyball players using a handheld digital palpation device. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304743. [PMID: 38917106 PMCID: PMC11198853 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304743] [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] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
This observational study aimed to evaluate the intra- and inter-operator reliability of a digital palpation device in measuring compressive stiffness of the patellar tendon at different knee angles in talent and elite volleyball players. Second aim was to examine differences in reliability when measuring at different knee angles, between dominant and non-dominant knees, between sexes, and with age. Two operators measured stiffness at the midpoint of the patellar tendon in 45 Dutch volleyball players at 0°, 45° and 90° knee flexion, on both the dominant and non-dominant side. We found excellent intra-operator reliability (ICC>0.979). For inter-operator reliability, significant differences were found in stiffness measured between operators (p<0.007). The coefficient of variance significantly decreased with increasing knee flexion (2.27% at 0°, 1.65% at 45° and 1.20% at 90°, p<0.001). In conclusion, the device appeared to be reliable when measuring compressive stiffness of the patellar tendon in elite volleyball players, especially at 90° knee flexion. Inter-operator reliability appeared to be questionable. More standardized positioning and measurement protocols seem necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotte van Dam
- Department of Sports Medicine, Sports Valley, Gelderse Vallei Hospital, Ede, The Netherlands
- Department of Human Nutrition and Health, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Rieneke Terink
- Department of Sports Medicine, Sports Valley, Gelderse Vallei Hospital, Ede, The Netherlands
| | - Inge van den Akker-Scheek
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes Zwerver
- Department of Sports Medicine, Sports Valley, Gelderse Vallei Hospital, Ede, The Netherlands
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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Shen X, Wang S, Chen J, Li J, Li C, Xiang R, Zhao C, Xu X. Inter-rater reliability and test-retest reliability of the foot posture index (FPI-6) for assessing static foot posture in elderly female patients with knee osteoarthritis and its association with quadriceps muscle tone and stiffness. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1385986. [PMID: 38983600 PMCID: PMC11232489 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1385986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective 1. To assess the Inter-rater reliability and test-retest reliability of FPI-6 total score and individual scores in static foot posture evaluation among elderly female patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA), aiming to establish the reliability of the FPI-6 scale. 2. To investigate the disparity between dominant and non-dominant quadriceps characteristics in elderly female KOA patients, as well as explore the correlation between quadriceps characteristics and abnormal foot posture, thereby offering novel insights for the prevention and treatment of KOA. Methods The study enrolled a total of 80 lower legs of 40 participants (all female) with unilateral or bilateral KOA, who were assessed by two raters at three different time points. The inter-rater and test-retest reliability of the FPI-6 was evaluated using the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC), while the absolute reliability of FPI-6 was examined using the standard error of measurement (SEM), minimum detectable change (MDC), and Bland-Altman analysis. The internal consistency of FPI-6 was assessed using Spearman's correlation coefficient. Additionally, MyotonPRO was employed to assess quadriceps muscle tone and stiffness in all participants, and the association between quadriceps muscle tone/stiffness and the total score of FPI-6 was analyzed. Result Our study found excellent inter-rater and test-retest reliability (ICC values of 0.923 and 0.931, respectively) for the FPI-6 total score, as well as good to excellent reliability (ICC values ranging from 0.680 to 0.863 and 0.739-0.883) for individual items. The SEM and MDC values for the total score of FPI-6 among our study inter-rater were 0.78 and 2.15, respectively. and the SEM and MDC values for the test-retest total score of FPI-6 were found to be 0.76 and 2.11, respectively. Furthermore, the SEM and MDC values between inter-rater and test-retest across six individual items ranged from 0.30 to 0.56 and from 0.84 to 1.56. The Bland-Altman plots and respective 95% LOA showed no evidence of systematic bias. In terms of the mechanical properties of the quadriceps on both sides, the muscle tone and stiffness of rectus femoris (RF), vastus medialis (VM), and vastus lateralis (VL) were significantly higher in the non-dominant leg compared to the dominant leg. Additionally, in the non-dominant leg, there was a significant positive correlation between the muscle tone and stiffness of VM, VL, RF and the total score of FPI-6. However, in the dominant leg, only VM's muscle tone and stiffness showed a significant positive correlation with the total score of FPI-6. Conclusion The reliability of the FPI-6 total score and its six individual items was good to excellent. Our findings offer a straightforward and dependable approach for researchers to assess foot posture in elderly female patients with KOA. Furthermore, we observed significantly greater quadriceps tension and stiffness in the non-dominant leg compared to the dominant leg. The FPI-6 total score exhibited a significant correlation with changes in quadriceps muscle performance among KOA patients. These observations regarding the relationship between changes in quadriceps muscle performance and foot posture in elderly female KOA patients may provide novel insights for disease prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- XingXing Shen
- The Fifth Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- The Fifth Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiahao Chen
- The Fifth Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junyi Li
- The Fifth Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Congcong Li
- The Fifth Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ruian Xiang
- The Fifth Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chuanxi Zhao
- The Fifth Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Second Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuemeng Xu
- The Fifth Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Second Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guangzhou, China
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Römer C, Czupajllo J, Wolfarth B, Sichting F, Legerlotz K. The Myometric Assessment of Achilles Tendon and Soleus Muscle Stiffness before and after a Standardized Exercise Test in Elite Female Volleyball and Handball Athletes-A Quasi-Experimental Study. J Clin Med 2024; 13:3243. [PMID: 38892954 PMCID: PMC11172482 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13113243] [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: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: The high prevalence of injuries in female athletes necessitates a course of action that not only enhances research in this field but also incorporates improved prevention programs and regular health monitoring of highly stressed structures such as tendons and muscles. Since myometry is already used by coaches and physiotherapists, it is important to investigate whether tissue stiffness varies in different types of sports, and whether such measures are affected by an acute training session. Methods: Myometric measurements of the Achilles tendon (AT) and soleus muscle (SM) were performed in the longitudinal plane and relaxed tendon position. In total, 38 healthy professional female athletes were examined, applying a quasi-experimental study design, with subgroup analysis performed for different sports. To investigate the stiffness of the AT and SM, 24 female handball and volleyball athletes performed a standardized maximal incremental performance test on a treadmill. In this subgroup, myometric measurements were taken before and after the exercise test. Results: The measurements showed no significant difference between the mean pre- (AT: 661.46 N/m; SM 441.48 N/m) and post-exercise stiffness (AT: 644.71 N/m; SM: 439.07 N/m). Subgroup analysis for different types of sports showed significantly lower AT and SM stiffness in swimming athletes compared to handball (p = 0.002), volleyball (p = 0.000) and hammer throw athletes (p = 0.008). Conclusions: Myometry can be performed on the same day as an acute training session in healthy female professional volleyball and handball athletes. Female swimmers have significantly lower AT and SM stiffness compared to female handball, volleyball and hammer throw athletes. These results show that the stiffness differences in the AT and SM can be assessed by myometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Römer
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité University Medicine Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Julia Czupajllo
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité University Medicine Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Bernd Wolfarth
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité University Medicine Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Freddy Sichting
- Department of Human Movement Science, Chemnitz University of Technology, 09111 Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Kirsten Legerlotz
- Movement Biomechanics, Institute of Sport Sciences, Humboldt University Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
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Wegener F, Ritterbusch A, Saal C, Baumgart C, Hoppe MW. Myotonometry and extended field-of-view ultrasound imaging allow reliable quantification of patellar tendon stiffness and length at rest and during maximal load, whereas several restrictions exist for the Achilles tendon. Front Sports Act Living 2024; 6:1379506. [PMID: 38859890 PMCID: PMC11163091 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2024.1379506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Stiffness and length are well-established tendon parameters in sports and medicine. Myotonometry and ultrasound imaging are the commonly used methods to quantify these parameters. However, further studies are needed to clarify the reliability of these methods, especially when assessing maximally loaded tendons and when conducted by different experienced investigators. This study aimed to determine the intra- and interrater reliabilities of measuring the stiffness and length of the patellar tendon (PT) and Achilles tendon (AT) using the myotonometry method and the extended field-of-view ultrasound (EFOV-US) technique at rest and maximal load performed by different experienced investigators. Methods Twenty-seven participants were examined on three different days by one experienced investigator and one novice investigator. Primary outcomes were the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and associated 95% confidence interval (95% CI), coefficient of variation (CV), standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimal detectable change (MDC) across the measurement days and investigators. Results For PT measurements at rest and maximal load, the estimated ICCs for stiffness and length were ≥.867 and ≥.970, respectively, with 95% CIs ranging from poor (.306) to excellent (.973) and good (.897) to excellent (.999). The CV, SEM, and MDC for PT stiffness and length were ≤5.2% and ≤2.0%, ≤39.3 N/m and ≤0.9 mm, and ≤108.9 N/m and ≤2.6 mm, respectively. For AT measurements, some restrictions were evident for stiffness at rest and both parameters at maximal load. However, regarding AT length at rest, the estimated ICC was ≥.996, with an excellent 95% CI (.987-.999). The CV, SEM, and MDC for AT length at rest were 2.8%, ≤1.1 mm, and ≤2.9 mm, respectively. Conclusion The estimated ICCs show good to excellent reliability for the myotonometry method and the EFOV-US technique for measuring PT stiffness and length at rest and maximal load for experienced and novice investigators. However, some restrictions are evident for the AT, especially for measurements at maximal load.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Wegener
- Movement and Training Science, Faculty of Sport Science, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Arne Ritterbusch
- Movement and Training Science, Faculty of Sport Science, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Christian Saal
- Movement and Training Science, Faculty of Sport Science, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Christian Baumgart
- Department of Movement and Training Science, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Matthias W. Hoppe
- Department of Exercise Science, Institute of Sport Science and Motology, Faculty of Educational Sciences, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
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Lettner J, Królikowska A, Ramadanov N, Oleksy Ł, Hakam HT, Becker R, Prill R. Evaluating the Reliability of MyotonPro in Assessing Muscle Properties: A Systematic Review of Diagnostic Test Accuracy. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:851. [PMID: 38929468 PMCID: PMC11205912 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60060851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Muscle properties are critical for performance and injury risk, with changes occurring due to physical exertion, aging, and neurological conditions. The MyotonPro device offers a non-invasive method to comprehensively assess muscle biomechanical properties. This systematic review evaluates the reliability of MyotonPro across various muscles for diagnostic purposes. Materials and Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive literature search was conducted in Medline (PubMed), Ovid (Med), Epistemonikos, Embase, Cochrane Library, Clinical trials.gov, and the WHO International Clinical Trials platform. Studies assessing the reliability of MyotonPro across different muscles were included. A methodological quality assessment was performed using established tools, and reviewers independently conducted data extraction. Statistical analysis involved summarizing intra-rater and inter-rater reliability measures across muscles. Results: A total of 48 studies assessing 31 muscles were included in the systematic review. The intra-rater and inter-rater reliability were consistently high for parameters such as frequency and stiffness in muscles of the lower and upper extremities, as well as other muscle groups. Despite methodological heterogeneity and limited data on specific parameters, MyotonPro demonstrated promising reliability for diagnostic purposes across diverse patient populations. Conclusions: The findings suggest the potential of MyotonPro in clinical assessments for accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring of muscle properties. Further research is needed to address limitations and enhance the applicability of MyotonPro in clinical practice. Reliable muscle assessments are crucial for optimizing treatment outcomes and improving patient care in various healthcare settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Lettner
- Center of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University Hospital Brandenburg/Havel, Brandenburg Medical School, Hochstraße 29, 14770 Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany; (J.L.)
| | - Aleksandra Królikowska
- Ergonomics and Biomedical Monitoring Laboratory, Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Wroclaw Medical University, Tytusa Chalubinskiego 3, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Nikolai Ramadanov
- Faculty of Health Science, Brandenburg Medical School, 14770 Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany
| | - Łukasz Oleksy
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Michałowskiego 12, 31-126 Krakow, Poland
- Department of Orthopaedics, Traumatology and Hand Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Hassan Tarek Hakam
- Center of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University Hospital Brandenburg/Havel, Brandenburg Medical School, Hochstraße 29, 14770 Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany; (J.L.)
- Faculty of Health Science, Brandenburg Medical School, 14770 Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany
| | - Roland Becker
- Center of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University Hospital Brandenburg/Havel, Brandenburg Medical School, Hochstraße 29, 14770 Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany; (J.L.)
- Faculty of Health Science, Brandenburg Medical School, 14770 Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany
| | - Robert Prill
- Center of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University Hospital Brandenburg/Havel, Brandenburg Medical School, Hochstraße 29, 14770 Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany; (J.L.)
- Faculty of Health Science, Brandenburg Medical School, 14770 Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany
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Szajkowski S, Pasek J, Cieślar G. Dose Escalation Can Enhance the Therapeutic Potential of Radial Extracorporeal Shock-Wave Therapy in the Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis in Runners. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:766. [PMID: 38792948 PMCID: PMC11123367 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60050766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Treatment of chronic plantar fasciitis is challenging given that there are various of available treatment options with no clear gold standard. The aim of the study was to examine the dose-escalation effect of rESWT on the biomechanical parameters of the plantar fascia and pain ailments. Materials and Methods: In the experimental group (n = 30), the intensity of the shock wave was increased every two subsequent treatment sessions. In the control group (n = 32), the treatment parameters were not changed. In both groups, six treatments were performed, with two treatment sessions a week. In order to assess the biomechanical parameters of the plantar fascia, myotonometric measurements were performed. The pain intensity was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Results: The tension of the plantar fascia attachment in the experimental group decreased from 27.69 ± 2.06 [Hz] before treatment to 26.29 ± 1.69 [Hz] after treatment (p = 0.009) and to 26.03 ± 2.15 [Hz] 1 month after the beginning of treatment (p = 0.003). In the control group, the frequency results did not change significantly (p > 0.05). Flexibility increased in both groups. The test results before treatment and 1 month after the beginning of the treatment showed statistical significance in the experimental group (p = 0.001) vs. (p = 0.002) in the control group. The differences were not statistically significant between groups (p > 0.05). The assessment of pain intensity carried out 1 month after the end of treatment in the experimental group amounted to 3.14 ± 2.28 points, which was statistically significantly lower compared to that in the control group, where it amounted to 5.14 ± 1.92 points. (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The use of rESWT performed with an increasing intensity of impact during subsequent treatment procedures demonstrated greater effectiveness in improving the biomechanical parameters of the plantar fascia and was also more effective in reducing the pain ailments. Our results are encouraging. The dose escalation in the treatment cycle is worth considering. To prove that this method of treatment is more effective, a randomized controlled trial should be carried out on a representative sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Szajkowski
- Faculty of Medical and Social Sciences, Warsaw Medical Academy of Applied Sciences, 8 Rydygiera St., 01-793 Warszawa, Poland;
| | - Jarosław Pasek
- Collegium Medicum im dr Władysława Biegańskiego, Jan Długosz University in Częstochowa, 13/15 Armii Krajowej St., 42-200 Częstochowa, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Cieślar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Angiology and Physical Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 15 Stefana Batorego St., 41-902 Bytom, Poland;
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Chen L, Zhou H, Gong Y, Tang Y, Su H, Jin Z, Chen G, Tong P. How Do Muscle Function and Quality Affect the Progression of KOA? A Narrative Review. Orthop Surg 2024; 16:802-810. [PMID: 38438160 PMCID: PMC10984828 DOI: 10.1111/os.14022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is widely recognized as a chronic joint disease characterized by degeneration of knee cartilage and subsequent bone hyperplasia. However, it is important to acknowledge the significant role of muscles in the development and progression of KOA. Muscle function (MF) and muscle quality (MQ) are key factors in understanding the involvement of muscles in KOA. Quantitative indices such as muscle mass, muscle strength, muscle cross-sectional area, muscle thickness, and muscle fatigue are crucial in assessing MF and MQ. Despite the growing interest in KOA, there is a scarcity of studies investigating the relationship between muscles and this condition. This review aims to examine the commonly used indices and measurement methods for assessing MF and MQ in clinical settings, while also exploring the association between muscles and KOA. Furthermore, this article highlights the importance of restoring MF and MQ to enhance symptom management and improve the quality of life for patients with KOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine)The First Clinical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Haojing Zhou
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine)The First Clinical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Yichen Gong
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine)The First Clinical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Yi Tang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine)The First Clinical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Hai Su
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine)The First Clinical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Zhaokai Jin
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine)The First Clinical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Guoqian Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics and TraumatologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Peijian Tong
- Department of Orthopaedics and TraumatologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouChina
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Saito R, Shagawa M, Sugimoto Y, Hirai T, Kato K, Sekine C, Yokota H, Hirabayashi R, Ishigaki T, Akuzawa H, Togashi R, Yamada Y, Osanami H, Edama M. Changes in the mechanical properties of the thigh and lower leg muscle-tendon units during the early follicular and early luteal phases. Front Sports Act Living 2024; 6:1323598. [PMID: 38596640 PMCID: PMC11002163 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2024.1323598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background This study aimed to determine changes in the muscle and tendon stiffness of the thigh and lower leg muscle-tendon units during the early follicular and early luteal phases, and check for possible relations between muscle and tendon stiffness in each phase. Methods The sample consisted of 15 female university students with regular menstrual cycles. The basal body temperature method, ovulation kit, and salivary estradiol concentration measurement were used to estimate the early follicular and early luteal phases. A portable digital palpation device measured muscle-tendon stiffness in the early follicular and early luteal phases. The measurement sites were the rectus femoris (RF), vastus medialis (VM), patellar tendon (PT), medial head of gastrocnemius muscle, soleus muscle, and Achilles tendon. Results No statistically significant differences in the thigh and lower leg muscle-tendon unit stiffness were seen between the early follicular and early luteal phases. Significant positive correlations were found between the stiffness of the RF and PT (r = 0.608, p = 0.016) and between the VM and PT (r = 0.737, p = 0.002) during the early luteal phase. Conclusion The present results suggest that the stiffness of leg muscle-tendon units of the anterior thigh and posterior lower leg do not change between the early follicular and early luteal phases and that tendons may be stiffer in those women who have stiffer anterior thigh muscles during the early luteal phase.
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10
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Reiner MM, Tilp M, Nakamura M, Konrad A. Is muscle stiffness a determinant for range of motion in the leg muscles? Biol Sport 2024; 41:115-121. [PMID: 38524826 PMCID: PMC10955752 DOI: 10.5114/biolsport.2024.131821] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Previous training studies with comprehensive stretching durations have reported that an increase in range of motion (ROM) can be related to decreases in muscle stiffness. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to analyze the association between the passive muscle stiffness of three muscle groups (triceps surae, quadriceps, hamstrings) to the respective joint ROM. Thirty-six healthy male soccer players volunteered in this study. After a standardized warm-up, the muscle stiffness was tested via shear wave elastography in six muscles (gastrocnemius medialis and lateralis, rectus femoris, semitendinosus, semimembranosus, and biceps femoris long head). The hip extension, hip flexion, and ankle dorsiflexion ROM were also assessed with a modified Thomas test, a sit and reach test, and a standing wall push test, respectively. We found significant moderate to large correlations between hip flexion ROM and muscle stiffness for the semimembranosus (rP = -0.43; P = 0.01), biceps femoris long head (rP = -0.45; P = 0.01), and overall hamstring stiffness (rP = -0.50; P < 0.01). No significant correlations were found for triceps surae (rP = -0.12; P = 0.51 to 0.67) and rectus femoris muscle stiffness (rP = 0.25; P = 0.14) with ankle dorsiflexion and hip extension ROM, respectively. We conclude that muscle stiffness is an important contributor to hip flexion ROM, but less important for hip extension or ankle joint ROM. Additional contributors to ROM might be tendon stiffness or stretch/pain tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina M. Reiner
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sport and Health, Graz University, Graz, Austria
| | - Markus Tilp
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sport and Health, Graz University, Graz, Austria
| | - Masatoshi Nakamura
- Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Nishi Kyushu University, Ozaki, Kanzaki, Saga, Japan
| | - Andreas Konrad
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sport and Health, Graz University, Graz, Austria
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11
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Trybulski R, Stanula A, Żebrowska A, Podleśny M, Hall B. Acute Effects of the Dry Needling Session on Gastrocnemius Muscle Biomechanical Properties, and Perfusion with Latent Trigger Points - A Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial in Mixed Martial Arts Athletes. J Sports Sci Med 2024; 23:136-146. [PMID: 38455447 PMCID: PMC10915622 DOI: 10.52082/jssm.2024.136] [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: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
The study aimed to evaluate the immediate effects of a dry needling (DN) therapy session on biomechanical properties, muscle power, perfusion, and pressure pain threshold of the gastrocnemius muscle with latent trigger points. Twenty mixed martial arts athletes (MMA) were randomly divided into two groups: experimental (eDN, n = 10) and sham (qDN, n = 10) to undergo one session of DN either with a real or a qazi needle. The measurements were taken at rest, 1-5 minutes after the DN (Post1-5min) and 24h after the DN (Post24h). DN significantly increased the muscle perfusion (Post1-5min and Post24h, p < 0.001), reduced its tone (Post1-5min and Post24h, p < 0.001) and stiffness (Post1-5min, p < 0.05; Post24 h, p < 0.001), and improved its elasticity (Post1-5min and Post24h, p < 0.001). DN also caused a significant increase in pressure pain threshold (Post1-5min, p < 0.001; Post24h, p < 0.05) and in muscle power (Post24h, p < 0.01). The DN session increased the blood perfusion and improved the biomechanical properties of the gastrocnemius muscle, which led to improved muscle power. The DN also had an analgesic effect. These effects were maintained at 24 h, which suggests that DN could facilitate muscle recovery in a post-exercise period of MMA athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Trybulski
- Medical Department of the Wojciech Korfanty Upper Silesian Academy, Poland
| | - Arkadiusz Stanula
- Laboratory of Sport Performance Analysis, Institute of Sport Sciences, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Żebrowska
- Department of Physiology, School of Physiological-Medical Sciences, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Poland
| | | | - Barbara Hall
- Department of Physiology, School of Physiological-Medical Sciences, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Poland
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12
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Wang X, Jin Z, Feng T, Fang S, Sun C, Qin X, Sun K, Liang L, Liu G, Zhu L, Wei X. The immediate effect of cervical rotation-traction manipulation on cervical paravertebral soft tissue: a study using soft tissue tension cloud chart technology. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2024; 25:184. [PMID: 38424580 PMCID: PMC10903149 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-024-07277-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To evaluate the reliability of the Soft Tissue Tension Cloud Chart (STTCC) technology, an original method combining multi-point Cervical Paravertebral Soft Tissue Test (CPSTT) with MATLAB software, we conducted a preliminary analysis on the immediate effects of Orthopaedic Manual Therapy (OMT) on cervical paravertebral soft tissue. METHODS 30 patients with Cervical Spondylotic Radiculopathy (CSR) were included in this study. We analyzed the differences in CPSTT before and after treatment with Cervical Rotation-Traction Manipulation (CRTM), a representative OMT technique in Traditional Chinese Medicine, using the STTCC technology. RESULTS The STTCC results demonstrated that post-treatment CPSTT levels in CSR patients were significantly lower than pre-treatment levels after application of CRTM, with a statistically significant difference (P < 0.001). Additionally, pre-treatment CPSTT levels on the symptomatic side (with radicular pain or numbness) were higher across the C5 to C7 vertebrae compared to the asymptomatic side (without symptoms) (P < 0.001). However, this difference disappeared after CRTM treatment (P = 0.231). CONCLUSIONS The STTCC technology represents a reliable method for analyzing the immediate effects of OMT. CSR patients display uneven distribution of CPSTT characterized by higher tension on the symptomatic side. CRTM not only reduces overall cervical soft tissue tension in CSR patients, but can also balance the asymmetrical tension between the symptomatic and asymptomatic sides. TRIAL REGISTRATION This study was approved by the Chinese Clinical Trials Registry (Website: . https://www.chictr.org.cn .) on 20/04/2021 and the Registration Number is ChiCTR2100045648.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Wang
- Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zikai Jin
- Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianxiao Feng
- Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Shengjie Fang
- Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Liaocheng Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Liaocheng, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuanrui Sun
- Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaokuan Qin
- Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Kai Sun
- Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Orthopedics and Traumatology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Long Liang
- Anhui Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Guangwei Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Orthopedics and Traumatology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Liguo Zhu
- Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Orthopedics and Traumatology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xu Wei
- Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Orthopedics and Traumatology, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
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13
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Trybulski R, Kużdżał A, Bichowska-Pawęska M, Vovkanych A, Kawczyński A, Biolik G, Muracki J. Immediate Effect of Cryo-Compression Therapy on Biomechanical Properties and Perfusion of Forearm Muscles in Mixed Martial Arts Fighters. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1177. [PMID: 38398489 PMCID: PMC10889478 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13041177] [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: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Mixed martial arts (MMA) fighters use their arms and hands for striking with the fists, grappling, and defensive techniques, which puts a high load on the forearms and hand muscles. New methods are needed to decrease the risk of injury and increase the effectiveness of regeneration. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of cryo-compression (CC) therapy of different times (3 and 6 min) on forearm muscles in MMA fighters by investigating muscle pain, stiffness, tension, elasticity strength, and perfusion. Twenty professional male MMA fighters aged 26.5 ± 4.5 years, with training experience of 10.3 ± 5.0 years, were enrolled on an experimental within-group study design. The participants underwent CC therapy at a temperature of 3 °C and compression of 75 mmHg for 3 min and, in the second session, for 6 min. The investigated parameters were in the following order: (1) perfusion in non-reference units (PU), (2) muscle tone (T-[Hz]), (3) stiffness (S-[N/m]), (4) elasticity (E-[arb]), (5) pressure pain threshold (PPT-[N/cm]), and (6) maximum isometric force (Fmax [kgf]) at two time points: (1) at rest-2 min before CC therapy (pre) and (2) 2 min after CC therapy (post). There were significant differences between 3 and 6 min of CC therapy for PU and T. Meanwhile, F, E, PPT, and S were significantly different when comparing pre- to post-conditions. These results provide evidence that CC therapy is a stimulus that significantly affects parameters characterizing muscle biomechanical properties, pain threshold, strength, and tissue perfusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Trybulski
- Medical Department Wojciech Korfanty Upper Silesian Academy, 40-659 Katowice, Poland
| | - Adrian Kużdżał
- Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, University of Rzeszów, 35-959 Rzeszów, Poland;
| | - Marta Bichowska-Pawęska
- Faculty of Physical Education, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, 80-336 Gdansk, Poland;
| | - Andriy Vovkanych
- Department of Physical Therapy and Ergotherapy, Ivan Boberkyj Lviv State University of Physical Culture, 79007 Lviv, Ukraine;
| | - Adam Kawczyński
- Department of Biomechanics and Sport Engineering, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, 80-336 Gdansk, Poland;
| | - Grzegorz Biolik
- Department of General Surgery, Vascular Surgery, Angiology and Phlebology, Medical University of Silesia, 40-635 Katowice, Poland;
| | - Jarosław Muracki
- Institute of Physical Culture Sciences, Department of Physical Education and Health, University of Szczecin, 70-453 Szczecin, Poland;
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McGowen JM, Hoppes CW, Forsse JS, Albin SR, Abt J, Koppenhaver SL. Myotonometry is Capable of Reliably Obtaining Trunk and Thigh Muscle Stiffness Measures in Military Cadets During Standing and Squatting Postures. Mil Med 2024; 189:e213-e219. [PMID: 37208314 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usad179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Low back and lower extremity injuries are responsible for the highest percentage of musculoskeletal injuries in U.S. Army soldiers. Execution of common soldier tasks as well as army combat fitness test events such as the three-repetition maximum deadlift depends on healthy functioning trunk and lower extremity musculature to minimize the risk of injury. To assist with appropriate return to duty decisions following an injury, reliable and valid tests and measures must be applied by military health care providers. Myotonometry is a noninvasive method to assess muscle stiffness, which has demonstrated significant associations with physical performance and musculoskeletal injury. The aim of this study is to determine the test-retest reliability of myotonometry in lumbar spine and thigh musculature across postures (standing and squatting) that are relevant to common soldier tasks and the maximum deadlift. MATERIALS AND METHODS Repeat muscle stiffness measures were collected in 30 Baylor University Army Cadets with 1 week between each measurement. Measures were collected in the vastus lateralis (VL), biceps femoris (BF), lumbar multifidus (LM), and longissimus thoracis (LT) muscles with participants in standing and squatting positions. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs3,2) were estimated, and their 95% CIs were calculated based on a mean rating, mixed-effects model. RESULTS The test-retest reliability (ICC3,2) of the stiffness measures was good to excellent in all muscles across the standing position (ICCs: VL = 0.94 [0.87-0.97], BF = 0.97 [0.93-0.98], LM = 0.96 [0.91-0.98], LT = 0.81 [0.59-0.91]) and was excellent in all muscles across the squatting position (ICCs: VL = 0.95 [0.89-0.98], BF = 0.94 [0.87-0.97], LM = 0.96 [0.92-0.98], LT = 0.93 [0.86-0.97]). CONCLUSION Myotonometry can reliably acquire stiffness measures in trunk and lower extremity muscles of healthy individuals in standing and squatting postures. These results may expand the research and clinical applications of myotonometry to identify muscular deficits and track intervention effectiveness. Myotonometry should be used in future studies to investigate muscle stiffness in these body positions in populations with musculoskeletal injuries and in research investigating the performance and rehabilitative intervention effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared M McGowen
- Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, Baylor University, One Bear Place, Waco, TX 76798, USA
| | - Carrie W Hoppes
- Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy, Army-Baylor University, Joint Base San Antonio, Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234, USA
| | - Jeff S Forsse
- Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, Baylor University, One Bear Place, Waco, TX 76798, USA
| | | | - John Abt
- Children's Health Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Plano, TX 75024, USA
| | - Shane L Koppenhaver
- Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, Baylor University, One Bear Place, Waco, TX 76798, USA
- Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy, Baylor University, One Bear Place, Waco, TX 76798, USA
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15
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Anggoro D, Purba MS, Nishida N, Itoh H, Itamoto K, Nemoto Y, Nakaichi M, Sunahara H, Tani K. Quantitative evaluation of the biomechanical and viscoelastic properties of the dog patellar tendon in response to neuromuscular blockade at different stifle angles. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0292453. [PMID: 38166027 PMCID: PMC10760779 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292453] [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: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The patellar tendon (PT) is crucial for maintaining stability and facilitating movement in the stifle joint. Elastography has been recognized as a prominent method for evaluating PT properties in humans and dogs. The utilization of oscillation methods in canine studies remains limited despite their extensive documentation in human studies. Our study represents the first effort to quantitatively assess and compare the effects of muscle relaxant on the biomechanical and viscoelastic characteristics of the PT at varying stifle angles in living dogs. Five healthy female beagles were used in this study. Biomechanical (tone, stiffness, and decrement) and viscoelastic (relaxation time and creep) properties of the PT were measured using MyotonPRO (Myoton Ltd, Estonia) prior to and following administration of rocuronium (0.5 mg/kg/body weight) at normal, extended, and flexed positions. Rocuronium was selected for its safety, controllability, and widespread clinical use in veterinary anesthesia. Two-way analysis of variance showed that tone, stiffness, and decrement were significantly higher (P < 0.001) in the control group than in the muscle relaxation group. At the same time, relaxation time and creep were significantly lower (P < 0.001) in the control group than in the muscle relaxation group. The findings indicate that stifle angle position and muscle rexalant administration fundamentally alter the biomechanical loading conditions of the PT, leading to changes in its viscoelastic properties. Therefore, this novel quantitative data could benefit clinical settings that necessitate accurate and objective methods for risk identification and monitoring PT biomechanics in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dito Anggoro
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
- Department of Surgery and Radiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Gadjah Mada University, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Melpa Susanti Purba
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Norihiro Nishida
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Harumichi Itoh
- Laboratory of Small Animal Clinical Science, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Kazuhito Itamoto
- Laboratory of Small Animal Clinical Science, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Yuki Nemoto
- Laboratory of Veterinary Radiology, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Munekazu Nakaichi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Radiology, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Sunahara
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Kenji Tani
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
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16
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Shan X, Umemoto K, Ishikawa T, Fukushige K, Takeuchi T, Naito M. Biomechanical assessment of gastrocnemii and Achilles tendon using MyotonPRO: in vivo measurements, and preliminary in situ measurements using formalin-fixed tissues. Connect Tissue Res 2024; 65:16-25. [PMID: 37830341 DOI: 10.1080/03008207.2023.2267682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to evaluate the reliability and validity of using MyotonPRO to quantify the mechanical properties of the muscle-tendon unit through in vivo measurements and preliminary in situ measurements using formalin-fixed tissues. MATERIALS AND METHODS The mechanical properties of gastrocnemii and the Achilles tendon of 12 healthy adults (six males and six females, 34.9 ± 5.8 years) were examined for in vivo test twice within a day and once post-24 hours using MyotonPRO, while nine human cadavers (formalin-fixed, 3 males and 6 females, 89.9 ± 5.1 years) were assessed for preliminary in situ test with identical time schedule to evaluate the within-day and inter-day reliability and validity. RESULTS In vivo tests had very high within-day (ICC: 0.96-0.99) and inter-day reliability (ICC: 0.83-0.96), while in situ tests (formalin-fixed tissues) showed high within-day (ICC: 0.87-0.99) and inter-day reliability (ICC: 0.76-0.98) for the results of tone and stiffness. There was no significant difference in the stiffness of the free part of the Achilles tendon between in vivo and in situ conditions. The stiffness of the lateral gastrocnemius (r = 0.55, p = 0.018), proximal part of the Achilles tendon (r = 0.56, p = 0.015), and free part of the Achilles tendon (r = 0.47, p = 0.048) before removing the skin was significantly correlated with that after removing the skin condition. CONCLUSIONS The findings of the current study suggest that MyotonPRO is reliable and valid for evaluating tendon stiffness both in vivo and in situ (formalin-fixed tissues).
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiyao Shan
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Japan
| | - Kanae Umemoto
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Japan
| | - Takuro Ishikawa
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Japan
| | - Kaori Fukushige
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Japan
| | - Takao Takeuchi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Japan
| | - Munekazu Naito
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Japan
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17
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Kurashina W, Takahashi T, Sasanuma H, Saitsu A, Takeshita K. Relationship Between Achilles Tendon Stiffness Using Myoton PRO and Translation Using a Tensile Testing Machine: A Biomechanical Study of a Porcine Model. Cureus 2023; 15:e49359. [PMID: 38146575 PMCID: PMC10749689 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.49359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Achilles tendinopathy is a common ankle disorder in both the general population and athletes. This condition can alter the mechanical characteristics of the Achilles tendon (AT) by decreasing tendon stiffness. Achilles tendinopathy is primarily treated conservatively; however, few monitoring tools exist for evaluating the condition of the AT. The Myoton PRO (Myoton AS, Tallinn, Estonia) device is a handheld tool used to evaluate tissue stiffness. However, no basic studies have examined the validity of Myoton PRO for assessing the AT. This study aimed to assess the validity of Myoton PRO using animal ATs and to examine its clinical applicability. Methods We used 28 fresh porcine ankles and evaluated AT stiffness at the calcaneus insertion site (AT0) and 2.0 cm above the calcaneus (AT2) using Myoton PRO. We also measured changes in the AT length using a tensile testing machine during the cyclic loading test. We investigated the correlation between dynamic stiffness and length change. Furthermore, we assessed the difference in stiffness between AT0 and AT2. Results The dynamic stiffness was 717.6 ± 183.1 N/m at AT0 and 467.4 ± 152.3 N/m at AT2. The change in length during the cyclic loading test was 1.8 ± 0.7 mm. The correlation between dynamic stiffness and length change was as follows: AT0, r=-0.61; AT2, r=-0.64 (P<0.001). The dynamic stiffness at AT0 was significantly greater than that at AT2 (P<0.001). Conclusions AT assessment using Myoton PRO has potential clinical utility as an indicator of tissue stiffness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wataru Kurashina
- Graduate School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, JPN
- Department of Rehabilitation, Tochigi Medical Center Shimotsuga, Tochigi, JPN
| | - Tsuneari Takahashi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ishibashi General Hospital, Shimotsuke, JPN
| | - Hideyuki Sasanuma
- Department of Orthopaedics, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, JPN
| | - Akihiro Saitsu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, JPN
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Kopecká B, Ravnik D, Jelen K, Bittner V. Objective Methods of Muscle Tone Diagnosis and Their Application-A Critical Review. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:7189. [PMID: 37631726 PMCID: PMC10458714 DOI: 10.3390/s23167189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
"Muscle tone" is a clinically important and widely used term and palpation is a crucial skill for its diagnosis. However, the term is defined rather vaguely, and palpation is not measurable objectively. Therefore, several methods have been developed to measure muscle tone objectively, in terms of biomechanical properties of the muscle. This article aims to summarize these approaches. Through database searches, we identified those studies related to objective muscle tone measurement in vivo, in situ. Based on them, we described existing methods and devices and compared their reliability. Furthermore, we presented an extensive list of the use of these methods in different fields of research. Although it is believed by some authors that palpation cannot be replaced by a mechanical device, several methods have already proved their utility in muscle biomechanical property diagnosis. There appear to be two issues preventing wider usage of these objective methods in clinical practice. Firstly, a high variability of their reliability, and secondly, a lack of valid mathematical models that would provide the observed mechanical characteristics with a clear physical significance and allow the results to be compared with each other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbora Kopecká
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Charles University, 162 52 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - David Ravnik
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Primorska, 6310 Izola, Slovenia
| | - Karel Jelen
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Charles University, 162 52 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Václav Bittner
- Faculty of Science, Humanities and Education, Technical University of Liberec, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic
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19
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Krzysztofik M, Wilk M, Kolinger D, Pisz A, Świtała K, Petruzela J, Stastny P. Acute Effects of Supra- and High-Loaded Front Squats on Mechanical Properties of Lower-Limb Muscles. Sports (Basel) 2023; 11:148. [PMID: 37624128 PMCID: PMC10459263 DOI: 10.3390/sports11080148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Knowledge about the acute effects of supramaximal-loaded resistance exercises on muscle mechanical properties is scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to examine changes in dominant limb biceps femoris and vastus lateralis oscillation frequency and stiffness before and after high- and supramaximal-loaded front squats. Nineteen male handball players participated in the experimental session with a barbell front squat 1RM. The first set was performed at 70% of the 1RM for four repetitions, and the second and third sets were performed at 90%1RM in an eccentric-concentric or an eccentric-only manner at 120% of the 1RM for three repetitions. The handheld myometer was used for the measurement of the biceps femoris and vastus lateralis stiffness and the oscillation frequency of the dominant limb 5 min before and at the 5th and 10th min after front squats. A two-way ANOVA neither indicated a statistically significant interaction (p = 0.335; η2 = 0.059 and p = 0.103; η2 = 0.118), the main effect of a condition (p = 0.124; η2 = 0.126 and p = 0.197; η2 = 0.091), nor the main effect of the time point (p = 0.314; η2 = 0.06 and p = 0.196; η2 = 0.089) for vastus lateralis and biceps femoris stiffness. However, there was a statistically significant interaction (F = 3.516; p = 0.04; η2 = 0.163) for vastus lateralis oscillation frequency. The post hoc analysis showed a significantly higher vastus lateralis oscillation frequency at POST (p = 0.037; d = 0.29) and POST_10 (p = 0.02; d = 0.29) compared to PRE during the SUPRA condition. Moreover, Friedman's test indicated statistically significant differences in biceps femoris oscillation frequency (test = 15.482; p = 0.008; Kendall's W = 0.163). Pairwise comparison showed a significantly lower biceps femoris oscillation frequency in POST (p = 0.042; d = 0.31) and POST_10 (p = 0.015; d = 0.2) during the HIGH condition compared to that in the corresponding time points during the SUPRA condition. The results of this study indicate that the SUPRA front squats, compared to the high-loaded ones, cause a significant increase in biceps femoris and vastus lateralis oscillation frequency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Krzysztofik
- Department of Sport Games, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Charles University in Prague, 110 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (M.W.)
- Institute of Sport Sciences, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, 40-065 Katowice, Poland
| | - Michal Wilk
- Department of Sport Games, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Charles University in Prague, 110 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (M.W.)
- Institute of Sport Sciences, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, 40-065 Katowice, Poland
| | - Dominik Kolinger
- Department of Sport Games, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Charles University in Prague, 110 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (M.W.)
| | - Anna Pisz
- Department of Sport Games, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Charles University in Prague, 110 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (M.W.)
| | - Katarzyna Świtała
- Faculty of Physical Education, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, 80-336 Gdańsk, Poland;
| | - Jan Petruzela
- Department of Sport Games, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Charles University in Prague, 110 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (M.W.)
| | - Petr Stastny
- Department of Sport Games, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Charles University in Prague, 110 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (M.W.)
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20
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Hill MW, Wdowski MM, Rosicka K, Kay AD, Muehlbauer T. Exploring the relationship of static and dynamic balance with muscle mechanical properties of the lower limbs in healthy young adults. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1168314. [PMID: 37304823 PMCID: PMC10251143 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1168314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
There is emerging evidence that mechanical properties of in vivo muscle tissues are associated with postural sway during quiet standing. However, it is unknown if the observed relationship between mechanical properties with static balance parameters generalise to dynamic balance. Thus, we determined the relationship between static and dynamic balance parameters with muscle mechanical properties of the ankle plantar flexors [lateral gastrocnemius (GL)] and knee extensors [vastus lateralis (VL)] in vivo. Twenty-six participants (men = 16, women = 10; age = 23.3 ± 4.4 years) were assessed for static balance [centre of pressure (COP) movements during quiet standing], dynamic balance (reach distances for the Y-balance test) and mechanical properties (stiffness and tone) of the GL and VL measured in the standing and lying position. Significant (p < .05) small to moderate inverse correlations were observed between the mean COP velocity during quiet standing with stiffness (r = -.40 to -.58, p = .002 to .042) and tone (r = -0.42 to -0.56, p = 0.003 to 0.036) of the GL and VL (lying and standing). Tone and stiffness explained 16%-33% of the variance in the mean COP velocity. Stiffness and tone of the VL measured in the lying (supine) condition were also inversely significantly correlated with Y balance test performance (r = -0.39 to -0.46, p = 0.018 to 0.049). These findings highlight that individuals with low muscle stiffness and tone exhibit faster COP movements during quiet standing, indicative of reduced postural control but also reveal that low VL stiffness and tone are associated with greater reach distances in a lower extremity reaching task, indicative of greater neuromuscular performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathew W. Hill
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Maximilian M. Wdowski
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Katarzyna Rosicka
- Department of Physiotherapy Faculty of Physical Culture in Gorzów Wlkp, Poznań University of Physical Education, Gorzów Wlkp, Poland
| | - Anthony D. Kay
- Centre for Physical Activity and Life Sciences, Faculty of Art, Science and Technology, University of Northampton, Northamptonshire, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas Muehlbauer
- Division of Movement and Training Sciences/Biomechanics of Sport, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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Seo H, Kim J, Yu C, Lim H. Intra-Rater and Inter-Rater Reliability Analysis of Muscle-Tone Evaluation Using a Myotonometer for Children with Developmental Disabilities. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11060782. [PMID: 36981439 PMCID: PMC10048477 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11060782] [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: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Assessing muscle tone is an essential component of the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment planning of developmental disabilities (DD) in children and is of great help in developing clinical diagnosis patterns. The purpose of this study was to investigate intra-rater and inter-rater reliability using the myotonometer, which is an assessment tool to measure muscle tone in children with DD. This study included 26 children diagnosed with DD. Two physical therapists measured the children's muscle tone using a myotonometer. For all the muscles measured, reliability was determined using the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC), the standard measurement error (SEM), and the minimal detectable change (MDC). The intra-rater reliability for all muscles was excellent (ICC = 0.75~0.78), except for the biceps brachii (ICC = 0.68). The inter-rater reliability was also excellent for all muscles (ICC = 0.75~0.95), and the SEM and MDC showed small measurement errors. Therefore, the intra-rater and inter-rater reliability of measurements by the myotonometer was found to be good or excellent. This suggests that the myotonometer is a tool that can objectively assess muscle tone, and it can be utilized in clinical practice to quickly and conveniently measure muscle tone in children with DD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heeae Seo
- Department of Physical Therapy, Graduate School, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongseon Kim
- Department of Physical Therapy, Gangdong University, Eumseong-gun 27600, Republic of Korea
| | - Changseon Yu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Dongguk University Ilsan Hospital, Goyang 10326, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyoungwon Lim
- Dankook University Disabled Rehabilitation Research Institute, Department of Physical Therapy, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
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22
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Konrad A, Tilp M, Mehmeti L, Mahnič N, Seiberl W, Paternoster FK. The Relationship Between Lower Limb Passive Muscle and Tendon Compression Stiffness and Oxygen Cost During Running. J Sports Sci Med 2023; 22:28-35. [PMID: 36876188 PMCID: PMC9982528 DOI: 10.52082/jssm.2023.28] [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: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Studies have reported that a stiff triceps surae muscle and tendon-aponeurosis and also a more compliant quadriceps muscle and tendon-aponeurosis, are related to lower oxygen cost during running. However, to date, no study has investigated in a single experiment how oxygen cost during running is related to the stiffness of the free tendons (Achilles tendon, patellar tendon) and all the superficial muscles of two major muscle groups for running (i.e., quadriceps, triceps surae). Thus, 17 male trained runners/triathletes participated in this study and visited the laboratory on three occasions. On the first day, the participants were familiarized with the tests. On the second day, the passive compression stiffness of the triceps surae muscle (i.e., gastrocnemii), Achilles tendon, quadriceps muscle (i.e., vastii, rectus femoris), and patellar tendon was non-invasively measured using a digital palpation device (MyotonPRO). In addition, an incremental test was applied to test the VO2max of the participants. Thereafter, in the third visit, after at least 48-h of rest, participants performed a 15-min run on the treadmill with a speed reflecting a velocity of 70% VO2max, to assess oxygen costs during running. The Spearman correlation showed a significant negative correlation between passive Achilles tendon compression stiffness and running oxygen consumption, with a large effect size (rρ = -0.52; CI (95%) -0.81 to -0.33; P = 0.03). Moreover, no further significant relationship between oxygen cost during running and the passive compression stiffness of the quadriceps muscle and patellar tendon, as well as the triceps surae muscle, was detected. The significant correlation indicates that a stiffer passive Achilles tendon can lead to a lower oxygen cost during running. Future studies will have to test the causality of this relationship with training methods such as strength training that are able to increase the Achilles tendon stiffness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Konrad
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sport and Health, Graz University, Graz, Austria
- Associate Professorship of Biomechanics in Sports, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Markus Tilp
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sport and Health, Graz University, Graz, Austria
| | - Leutrim Mehmeti
- Associate Professorship of Biomechanics in Sports, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Nik Mahnič
- Associate Professorship of Biomechanics in Sports, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Seiberl
- Department of Human Sciences, Institute of Sport Science, Universität der Bundeswehr München, Neubiberg, Germany
| | - Florian K Paternoster
- Associate Professorship of Biomechanics in Sports, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
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Wang Y, Chen Z, Wu Z, Li J, Li C, Yang J, Chen W, Ye Z, Shen X, Jiang T, Liu W, Xu X. Reliability of foot posture index (FPI-6) for evaluating foot posture in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1103644. [PMID: 36741758 PMCID: PMC9889869 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1103644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: To determine the reliability of FPI-6 in the assessment of foot posture in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Methods: Thirty volunteers with KOA (23 females, 7 males) were included in this study, assessed by two raters and at three different moments. Inter-rater and test-retest reliability were assessed with Cohen's Weighted Kappa (Kw) and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC). Bland-Altman plots and respective 95% limits of agreement (LOA) were used to assess both inter-rater and test-retest agreement and identify systematic bias. Moreover, the internal consistency of FPI-6 was assessed by Spearman's correlation coefficient. Results: FPI-6 total score showed a substantial inter-rater (Kw = .66) and test-retest reliability (Kw = .72). The six items of FPI-6 demonstrated inter-rater and test-retest reliability varying from fair to substantial (Kw = .33 to .76 and Kw = .40 to .78, respectively). Bland-Altman plots and respective 95% LOA indicated that there appeared no systematic bias and the acceptable agreement of FPI-6 total score for inter-rater and test-retest was excellent. There was a statistically significant positive correlation between each item and the total score of FPI-6, which indicated that FPI-6 had good internal consistency. Conclusion: In conclusion, the reliability of FPI-6 total score and the six items of FPI-6 were fair to substantial. The results can provide a reliable way for clinicians and researchers to implement the assessment of foot posture in patients with KOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wang
- The Fifth Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zehua Chen
- The Orthopedics Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Zhuzhou city, Zhuzhou, China
| | - Zugui Wu
- The Fifth Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junyi Li
- The Fifth Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Congcong Li
- The Fifth Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaman Yang
- The Fifth Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weijian Chen
- The Fifth Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zixuan Ye
- The Fifth Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinxin Shen
- The Fifth Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Guangdong Provincial Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China,*Correspondence: Tao Jiang, ; Wengang Liu, ; Xuemeng Xu,
| | - Wengang Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China,*Correspondence: Tao Jiang, ; Wengang Liu, ; Xuemeng Xu,
| | - Xuemeng Xu
- The Fifth Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China,Guangdong Provincial Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China,*Correspondence: Tao Jiang, ; Wengang Liu, ; Xuemeng Xu,
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Reliability and validity of Foot Posture Index (FPI-6) for evaluating foot posture in participants with low back pain. Sci Rep 2022; 12:21168. [PMID: 36477012 PMCID: PMC9729570 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-22220-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have demonstrated that Foot Posture Index (FPI-6) is a valid and moderately reliable tool to evaluate foot posture. However, data about reliability and validity of FPI-6 in the assessment of foot posture in people with low back pain (LBP) is lacking. To investigate reliability and validity of FPI-6 in the assessment of foot posture in people with LBP. Thirty volunteers with LBP, aged 20-64 years, were recruited for the research and assessed by two raters. The data measured by different raters on the same day were used to calculate the inter-rater reliability. The data measured by the same rater on different dates were used to calculate the test-retest reliability. The reliability of FPI-6 was tested with intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and absolute reliability with standard error of measurement (SEM), minimal detectable change (MDC) and Bland-Altman analysis. The validity of FPI-6 was tested with Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Spearman's correlation coefficients. The FPI-6 indicated excellent inter-rater and test-retest reliability in the evaluation of foot posture in people with LBP (ICC = 0.97 and 0.95). The agreement for inter-rater and test-retest was excellent based on the SEM (SEM = 0.12) and MDC value (MDC = 0.33). Bland-Altman plots showed that there was no significant systematic bias for the agreement on the ground of low mean difference (< 1). The EFA suggested that the fit indices were considered acceptable according to the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) value (KMO = 0.620) and Bartlett's sphericity test (P < 0.01). There was a statistically significant positive correlation between each item and total score of FPI-6 because the Spearman's correlation coefficient of six items were all > 0.3 (P < 0.01). The inter-rater and test-retest reliability and validity of FPI-6 on people with LBP were proved reliable. It might be considered a reliable and valid adjunctive tool to detect possible changes of foot posture after interventions in patients with LBP.
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25
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Bohlen L, Schwarze J, Richter J, Gietl B, Lazarov C, Kopyakova A, Brandl A, Schmidt T. Effect of osteopathic techniques on human resting muscle tone in healthy subjects using myotonometry: a factorial randomized trial. Sci Rep 2022; 12:16953. [PMID: 36217012 PMCID: PMC9551048 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-20452-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are highly prevalent, burdensome, and putatively associated with an altered human resting muscle tone (HRMT). Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is commonly and effectively applied to treat MSDs and reputedly influences the HRMT. Arguably, OMT may modulate alterations in HRMT underlying MSDs. However, there is sparse evidence even for the effect of OMT on HRMT in healthy subjects. A 3 × 3 factorial randomised trial was performed to investigate the effect of myofascial release (MRT), muscle energy (MET), and soft tissue techniques (STT) on the HRMT of the corrugator supercilii (CS), superficial masseter (SM), and upper trapezius muscles (UT) in healthy subjects in Hamburg, Germany. Participants were randomised into three groups (1:1:1 allocation ratio) receiving treatment, according to different muscle-technique pairings, over the course of three sessions with one-week washout periods. We assessed the effect of osteopathic techniques on muscle tone (F), biomechanical (S, D), and viscoelastic properties (R, C) from baseline to follow-up (primary objective) and tested if specific muscle-technique pairs modulate the effect pre- to post-intervention (secondary objective) using the MyotonPRO (at rest). Ancillary, we investigate if these putative effects may differ between the sexes. Data were analysed using descriptive (mean, standard deviation, and quantiles) and inductive statistics (Bayesian ANOVA). 59 healthy participants were randomised into three groups and two subjects dropped out from one group (n = 20; n = 20; n = 19-2). The CS produced frequent measurement errors and was excluded from analysis. OMT significantly changed F (-0.163 [0.060]; p = 0.008), S (-3.060 [1.563]; p = 0.048), R (0.594 [0.141]; p < 0.001), and C (0.038 [0.017]; p = 0.028) but not D (0.011 [0.017]; p = 0.527). The effect was not significantly modulated by muscle-technique pairings (p > 0.05). Subgroup analysis revealed a significant sex-specific difference for F from baseline to follow-up. No adverse events were reported. OMT modified the HRMT in healthy subjects which may inform future research on MSDs. In detail, MRT, MET, and STT reduced the muscle tone (F), decreased biomechanical (S not D), and increased viscoelastic properties (R and C) of the SM and UT (CS was not measurable). However, the effect on HRMT was not modulated by muscle-technique interaction and showed sex-specific differences only for F.Trial registration German Clinical Trial Register (DRKS00020393).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Bohlen
- Osteopathic Research Institute, Osteopathie Schule Deutschland, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Jonah Schwarze
- Osteopathic Research Institute, Osteopathie Schule Deutschland, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jannik Richter
- Osteopathie Schule Deutschland, Hamburg, Germany
- Dresden International University, Dresden, Germany
| | - Bernadette Gietl
- Osteopathie Schule Deutschland, Hamburg, Germany
- Dresden International University, Dresden, Germany
| | - Christian Lazarov
- Osteopathie Schule Deutschland, Hamburg, Germany
- Dresden International University, Dresden, Germany
| | - Anna Kopyakova
- Erasmus School of Economics, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andreas Brandl
- Osteopathic Research Institute, Osteopathie Schule Deutschland, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tobias Schmidt
- Osteopathic Research Institute, Osteopathie Schule Deutschland, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
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Rubine-Gatina S, Rimere N, Zundane Z, Gulajeva A, Reste J. Sternocleidomastoid Muscle and Head Position: How to Minimize Muscle Tension. IISE Trans Occup Ergon Hum Factors 2022; 10:192-200. [PMID: 36308294 DOI: 10.1080/24725838.2022.2141369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
OCCUPATIONAL APPLICATIONSThe coronavirus disease pandemic has changed the setting of many jobs, forcing people to switch to remote work. In turn, telework is associated with an increased risk of musculoskeletal disorders, as it is difficult to ensure an ergonomically correct work environment at home. Complaints of headaches, neck pain, and dizziness are reported by both young and old people. One of the reasons for such complaints might be an incorrect head position and prolonged tension in the neck muscles that is directly correlated with a spatially misaligned computer monitor and peripherals. We examined biomechanical parameters of the sternocleidomastoid muscle and found that it is possible to reduce tension in this muscle by keeping the head in an appropriate angular range to minimize potential health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nadina Rimere
- Faculty of Medicine, Riga Stradiņš University, Riga, Latvia
| | - Zane Zundane
- Faculty of Residency, Riga Stradiņš University, Riga, Latvia
| | - Alise Gulajeva
- Faculty of Medicine, Riga Stradiņš University, Riga, Latvia
| | - Jelena Reste
- Institute of Occupational Safety and Environmental Health, Riga Stradiņš University, Riga, Latvia
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27
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Zhu Y, Feng Y, Huang F, Li Y, Wang W, Wang X, Cao X, Zhang Z. Changes in stiffness of the specific regions of knee extensor mechanism after static stretching. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:958242. [PMID: 36046676 PMCID: PMC9420945 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.958242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Decreased muscle stiffness could reduce musculotendinous injury risk in sports and rehabilitation settings. Static stretching (SS) has been used to increase the flexibility of muscles and reduce muscle stiffness, but the effects of SS on the stiffness of specific regions of the knee extensor mechanism are unclear. The quadriceps femoris and patellar tendon are essential components of the knee extensor mechanism and play an important role in knee motion. Therefore, we explored the acute and prolonged effects of SS on the stiffness of the quadriceps femoris and patellar tendon and knee flexion range of motion (ROM). Thirty healthy male subjects participated in the study. Three 60-s SS with 30-s intervals were conducted in right knee flexion with 30° hip extension. We measured the ROM and stiffness of the vastus medialis (VM), vastus lateralis (VL), and rectus femoris (RF) and the proximal-(PPT), middle-(MPT), and distal-(DPT) region stiffness of the patellar tendon before and immediately after SS intervention, or 5 and 10 min after SS. The stiffness of the quadriceps muscle and patellar tendon were measured using MyotonPRO, and the knee flexion ROM was evaluated using a medical goniometer. Our outcomes showed that the ROM was increased after SS intervention in all-time conditions (p < 0.01). Additionally, the results showed that the stiffness of RF (p < 0.01) and PPT (p = 0.03) were decreased immediately after SS intervention. These results suggested that SS intervention could be useful to increase knee flexion ROM and temporarily reduce the stiffness of specific regions of the knee extensor mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanchun Zhu
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanan Feng
- Rehabilitation Therapy Center, Luoyang Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China
| | - Fangchao Huang
- Rehabilitation Therapy Center, Luoyang Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China
| | - Yapeng Li
- Rehabilitation Therapy Center, Luoyang Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Xueqiang Wang
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiangyang Cao
- Rehabilitation Therapy Center, Luoyang Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China
| | - Zhijie Zhang
- Rehabilitation Therapy Center, Luoyang Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China
- *Correspondence: Zhijie Zhang,
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28
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Konrad A, Seiberl W, Tilp M, Holzer D, Paternoster FK. What to stretch? - Isolated proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching of either quadriceps or triceps surae followed by post-stretching activities alters tissue stiffness and jump performance. Sports Biomech 2022:1-18. [PMID: 35400290 DOI: 10.1080/14763141.2022.2058991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
To overcome a possible drop in performance following longer stretch durations (>60 s), post-stretching dynamic activities (PSA) can be applied. However, it is not clear if this is true for isolated proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching of different muscle groups (e.g., triceps surae and quadriceps). Thus, 16 participants performed both interventions (triceps surae PNF + PSA; quadriceps PNF + PSA) in random order, separated by 48 h. Jump performance was assessed with a force plate, and tissue stiffness was assessed with a MyotonPro device. While no changes were detected in the countermovement jump performance, the PNF + PSA interventions resulted in a decrease in drop jump performance which led to a large magnitude of change following the triceps surae PNF + PSA and a small-to-medium magnitude of change following the quadriceps PNF + PSA. Moreover, in the triceps surae PNF + PSA intervention, a decrease in Achilles tendon stiffness was seen, while in the quadriceps PNF + PSA intervention, a decrease in the overall quadriceps muscle stiffness was seen. According to our results, we recommend that especially triceps surae stretching is avoided during warm-up (also when PSA is included) when the goal is to optimise explosive or reactive muscle contractions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Konrad
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sport and Health, Graz University, Graz, Austria
- Biomechanics in Sports, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Seiberl
- Institute of Sport Science, Department of Human Sciences, University of the Bundeswehr Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Markus Tilp
- Institute of Human Movement Science, Sport and Health, Graz University, Graz, Austria
| | - Denis Holzer
- Biomechanics in Sports, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
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Acute Effects of Different Intensities during Bench Press Exercise on the Mechanical Properties of Triceps Brachii Long Head. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12063197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze acute changes in the muscle mechanical properties of the triceps brachii long head after bench press exercise performed at different external loads and with different intensities of effort along with power performance. Ten resistance-trained males (age: 27.7 ± 3.7 yr, body mass: 90.1 ± 17.1 kg, height: 184 ± 4 cm; experience in resistance training: 5.8 ± 2.6 yr, relative one-repetition maximum (1RM) in the bench press: 1.23 ± 0.22 kg/body mass) performed two different testing conditions in a randomized order. During the experimental session, participants performed four successive sets of two repetitions of the bench press exercise at: 50, 70, and 90% 1RM, respectively, followed by a set at 70% 1RM performed until failure, with a 4 min rest interval between each set. Immediately before and after each set, muscle mechanical properties of the dominant limb triceps brachii long head were assessed via a Myoton device. To determine fatigue, peak and average barbell velocity were measured at 70% 1RM and at 70% 1RM until failure (only first and second repetition). In the control condition, only muscle mechanical properties at the same time points after the warm-up were assessed. The intraclass correlation coefficients indicated “poor” to “excellent” reliability for decrement, relaxation time, and creep. Therefore, these variables were excluded from further analysis. Three-way ANOVAs (2 groups × 2 times × 4 loads) indicated a statistically significant group × time interaction for muscle tone (p = 0.008). Post hoc tests revealed a statistically significant increase in muscle tone after 70% 1RM (p = 0.034; ES = 0.32) and 90% 1RM (p = 0.011; ES = 0.56). No significant changes were found for stiffness. The t-tests indicated a significant decrease in peak (p = 0.001; ES = 1.02) and average barbell velocity (p = 0.008; ES = 0.8) during the first two repetitions of a set at 70% 1RM until failure in comparison to the set at 70% 1RM. The results indicate that low-volume, high-load resistance exercise immediately increases muscle tone but not stiffness. Despite no significant changes in the mechanical properties of the muscle being registered simultaneously with a decrease in barbell velocity, there was a trend of increased muscle tone. Therefore, further studies with larger samples are required to verify whether muscle tone could be a sensitive marker to detect acute muscle fatigue.
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30
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Chang TT, Zhu YC, Li Z, Li F, Li YP, Guo JY, Wang XQ, Zhang ZJ. Modulation in the Stiffness of Specific Muscles of the Quadriceps in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis and Their Relationship With Functional Ability. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 9:781672. [PMID: 35223811 PMCID: PMC8870124 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.781672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Deficits in the flexibility of the quadriceps are one of the risk factors for developing knee joint disorders. No studies have investigated the changes in the stiffness of the quadriceps muscle among patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate changes in the stiffness of specific-muscle of the quadriceps in patients with knee OA and their relationship with functional ability. Twenty-five patients with knee OA and 25 healthy, asymptomatic subjects were recruited in this study. The stiffness of the vastus lateralis (VL), vastus medialis (VM) and rectus femoris (RF) in all participants was evaluated using MyotonPRO at 60° and 90° flexion of the knee joint. The results of this study showed a greater VL stiffness in patients with knee OA than in healthy subjects at both 60° and 90° of knee flexion (p < 0.05). Significant differences in VL, VM and RF stiffness were obtained at different knee joint angles in individuals with and without knee OA (p < 0.05). In addition, there was a positive correlation between VL stiffness and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores in patients with Knee OA (60° of knee flexion: r = 0.508, p = 0.010; 90° of knee flexion: r = 0.456, p = 0.022). These results indicate that there is an increase in VL stiffness in patients with knee OA compared with healthy, asymptomatic subjects, and the quadriceps stiffness was increased with knee flexion in both healthy subjects and patients with knee OA. VL stiffness is associated with WOMAC scores in patients with knee OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Tian Chang
- Rehabilitation Therapy Center, Luoyang Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China
| | - Yuan-Chun Zhu
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhe Li
- The First Clinical Medical School, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xi’an, China
| | - Feng Li
- Rehabilitation Therapy Center, Luoyang Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China
| | - Ya-Peng Li
- Rehabilitation Therapy Center, Luoyang Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China
| | - Jia-Yi Guo
- Rehabilitation Therapy Center, Luoyang Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China
| | - Xue-Qiang Wang
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shanghai Shangti Orthopaedic Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhi-Jie Zhang
- Rehabilitation Therapy Center, Luoyang Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China
- *Correspondence: Zhi-Jie Zhang,
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Chen Z, Ye X, Shen Z, Wang Y, Wu Z, Chen G, Guan Y, Wu J, Jiang T, Wu H, Liu W, Xu X. Comparison of the Asymmetries in Foot Posture and Properties of Gastrocnemius Muscle and Achilles Tendon Between Patients With Unilateral and Bilateral Knee Osteoarthritis. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:636571. [PMID: 34738007 PMCID: PMC8561212 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.636571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Asymmetrical foot posture and properties alterations of the gastrocnemius muscle (GM) and Achilles tendon (AT) were observed in knee osteoarthritis (KOA). We aimed to investigate the inter-limbs asymmetries in foot posture and the properties of GM and AT and explore the association between them. Methods: A total of 62 subjects with unilateral or bilateral KOA were included in this study: 30 patients with unilateral pain and 32 patients with bilateral pain were assigned to the bilateral group (BG) and unilateral group (UG), respectively. The relatively serious leg (RSL) and relatively moderate leg (RML) were judged according to the severity of symptoms assessed by using visual analogue scale (VAS) motion. Foot posture and asymmetrical foot posture scores were assessed based on Foot Posture index (FPI-6). Subsequently, all the participants received an assessment for properties of GM and AT, including tone/tension (Hz), stiffness (N/m), and elasticity. We calculated the asymmetry index of AT (Asy-AT) in both legs and the difference of muscle properties between medial and lateral gastrocnemius (D-MLG) in the ipsilateral limb. Results: Asymmetry of foot posture was categorized into three types including normal, asymmetry, and severe asymmetry. The percentage of subjects classified as normal was higher in the BG (62.5%) than in the UG (36.67%), p < 0.05. Tension of AT and tone of lateral gastrocnemius (LG) in RSL were higher than those in RML (15.71 ± 0.91 vs. 15.23 ± 1.01; 25.31 ± 2.09 vs. 23.96 ± 2.08, p < 0.01 and p < 0.01, respectively), and stiffness of AT in the RSL was higher than that in RML (676.58 ± 111.45 vs. 625.66 ± 111.19, p < 0.01). Meanwhile, a positive relationship was found between ipsilateral FPI and tone of MG and LG in the left leg (0.246 per degree, 95% CI: −0.001, 0.129; p = 0.054 and 0.293 per degree, 95% CI: −0.014, 0.157; p = 0.021, respectively) and right leg (0.363 per degree, 95% CI: 0.033, 0.146; p = 0.004 and 0.272 per degree, 95% CI: 0.007, −0.144; p = 0.032, respectively). Moreover, a positive link was observed between asymmetrical FPI scores and K/L grade (0.291 per degree, 95% CI: 0.018, 0.216; p = 0.022). Furthermore, a significantly greater Asy-AT(tension) was detected in the UG than that in the BG (UG vs. UG: 8.20 ± 5.09% vs. 5.11 ± 4.72%, p < 0.01). Additionally, an increased asymmetrical FPI score (i.e., more severe asymmetry) was significantly associated with increases in Asy-AT(tension) and Asy-AT(stiffness) (0.42 per degree, 95% CI: 0.533, 1.881; p = 0.001 and 0.369 per degree, 95% CI: 0.596, 2.82; p = 0.003, respectively). Conclusions: The stiffness and tension of AT and the tone of LG in RSL were higher than those in RML in KOA patients, and inter-limbs foot posture and tension of AT were more asymmetrical in unilateral KOA patients compared to patients with bilateral KOA. Notably, foot posture, as an important biomechanical factor, was significantly associated with properties of GM, AT, and K/L grade in KOA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zehua Chen
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiangling Ye
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhen Shen
- Kunming Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Kunming, China
| | - Yi Wang
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zugui Wu
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guoqian Chen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yingxin Guan
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine/Zhuhai Hospital of Guangdong Province Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital, Zhuhai, China
| | - Jiatao Wu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine/Zhuhai Hospital of Guangdong Province Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital, Zhuhai, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Second Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huai Wu
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Second Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wengang Liu
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Second Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuemeng Xu
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Second Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guangzhou, China
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Characteristics of Pedaling Muscle Stiffness among Cyclists of Different Performance Levels. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 57:medicina57060606. [PMID: 34208215 PMCID: PMC8230890 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57060606] [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: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The aim of the present study was to compare the impact of an incremental exercise test on muscle stiffness in the rectus femoris (RF), vastus lateralis (VL), biceps femoris (BF), and gastrocnemius (GL) among road cyclists of three performance levels. Materials and Methods: The study group consisted of 35 cyclists grouped according to their performance level; elite (n = 10; professional license), sub-elite (n = 12; amateur license), and recreational (n = 13; cyclosportive license). Passive muscle stiffness was assessed using myometry before and after an incremental exercise test. Results: There was a significant correlation between time and category in the vastus lateralis with stiffness increases in the sub-elite (p = 0.001, Cohen's d = 0.88) and elite groups (p = 0.003, Cohen's d = 0.72), but not in the recreational group (p = 0.085). Stiffness increased over time in the knee extensors (RF, p < 0.001; VL, p < 0.001), but no changes were observed in the knee flexors (GL, p = 0.63, BF, p = 0.052). There were no baseline differences among the categories in any muscle. Conclusions: Although the performance level affected VL stiffness after an incremental exercise test, no differences in passive stiffness were observed among the main muscles implicated in pedaling in a resting state. Future research should assess whether this marker could be used to differentiate cyclists of varying fitness levels and its potential applicability for the monitoring of training load.
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Bravo-Sánchez A, Abián P, Sánchez-Infante J, Esteban-Gacía P, Jiménez F, Abián-Vicén J. Objective Assessment of Regional Stiffness in Vastus Lateralis with Different Measurement Methods: A Reliability Study. SENSORS 2021; 21:s21093213. [PMID: 34066343 PMCID: PMC8125613 DOI: 10.3390/s21093213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the reliability of four methods of assessing vastus lateralis (VL) stiffness, and to describe the influence of structural characteristics on them. The stiffness of the dominant lower-limb’s VL was evaluated in 53 healthy participants (28.4 ± 9.1 years) with shear wave elastography (SWE), strain elastography (SE), myotonometry and tensiomyography (TMG). The SWE, SE and myotonometry were performed at 50%, and TMG was assessed at 30%, of the length from the upper pole of the patella to the greater trochanter. The thickness of the VL, adipose tissue and superficial connective tissue was also measured with ultrasound. Three repeated measurements were acquired to assess reliability, using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Pearson’s correlation coefficients were calculated to determine the relationships between methodologic assessments and between structural characteristics and stiffness assessments of the VL. Myotonometry (ICC = 0.93; 95%-CI = 0.89,0.96) and TMG (ICC = 0.89; 95%-CI = 0.82,0.94) showed excellent inter-day reliability whereas with SWE (ICC = 0.62; 95%-CI = 0.41,0.77) and SE (ICC = 0.71; 95%-CI = 0.57,0.81) reliability was moderate. Significant correlations were found between myotonometry and VL thickness (r = 0.361; p = 0.008), adipose tissue thickness (r = −0.459; p = 0.001) and superficial connective tissue thickness (r = 0.340; p = 0.013). Myotonometry and TMG showed the best reliability values, although myotonometry stiffness values were influenced by the structural variables of the supra-adjacent tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Bravo-Sánchez
- Performance and Sport Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45071 Toledo, Spain; (A.B.-S.); (J.S.-I.); (P.E.-G.); (F.J.)
| | - Pablo Abián
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Comillas Pontifical University, 28049 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Jorge Sánchez-Infante
- Performance and Sport Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45071 Toledo, Spain; (A.B.-S.); (J.S.-I.); (P.E.-G.); (F.J.)
| | - Paula Esteban-Gacía
- Performance and Sport Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45071 Toledo, Spain; (A.B.-S.); (J.S.-I.); (P.E.-G.); (F.J.)
| | - Fernando Jiménez
- Performance and Sport Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45071 Toledo, Spain; (A.B.-S.); (J.S.-I.); (P.E.-G.); (F.J.)
| | - Javier Abián-Vicén
- Performance and Sport Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45071 Toledo, Spain; (A.B.-S.); (J.S.-I.); (P.E.-G.); (F.J.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-925268800 (ext. 5522)
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Garcia-Bernal MI, Heredia-Rizo AM, Gonzalez-Garcia P, Cortés-Vega MD, Casuso-Holgado MJ. Validity and reliability of myotonometry for assessing muscle viscoelastic properties in patients with stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:5062. [PMID: 33658623 PMCID: PMC7930253 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-84656-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a lack of consensus about the measurement of the muscle viscoelastic features in stroke patients. Additionally, the psychometric properties of the most-commonly used clinical tools remain controversial. Our objective is to investigate the validity and reliability of myotonometry to assess viscoelastic muscle features in stroke survivors. Pubmed, PEDro, Scopus and Cinahl were systematically searched to include studies reporting the psychometric properties of myotonometric devices used in people after stroke. The QUADAS-2 and the COSMIN checklists were used to assess the methodological quality of the studies and the psychometric properties of myotonometry. Nine studies were included in the qualitative synthesis and data from five of these were pooled in a meta-analysis. Overall, low to moderate risk of bias and applicability concerns were observed. Pooled data from intra-rater reliability for muscle tone showed a mean coefficient of correlation of 0.915 (95% CI: 0.880-0.940, I 2 = 69.2%) for upper limbs, and a mean coefficient of 0.785 (95%CI: 0.708-0.844, I 2 = 4.02%) for lower limbs. Myotonometry seems to be a valid and reliable complementary tool to assess muscle viscoelastic properties in stroke survivors, although definite conclusions about concurrent validity need further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Isabel Garcia-Bernal
- grid.9224.d0000 0001 2168 1229Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry, University of Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Alberto Marcos Heredia-Rizo
- grid.9224.d0000 0001 2168 1229Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry, University of Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Paula Gonzalez-Garcia
- grid.9224.d0000 0001 2168 1229Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry, University of Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - María-Dolores Cortés-Vega
- grid.9224.d0000 0001 2168 1229Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry, University of Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - María Jesús Casuso-Holgado
- grid.9224.d0000 0001 2168 1229Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry, University of Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
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Klich S, Ficek K, Krymski I, Klimek A, Kawczyński A, Madeleine P, Fernández-de-Las-Peñas C. Quadriceps and Patellar Tendon Thickness and Stiffness in Elite Track Cyclists: An Ultrasonographic and Myotonometric Evaluation. Front Physiol 2020; 11:607208. [PMID: 33381054 PMCID: PMC7767861 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.607208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Track cyclists are required to perform short- and long-term efforts during sprint and endurance race events, respectively. The 200 m flying sprint races require maximal power output and anaerobic capacity, while the 4,000 m pursuit cyclists demand a high level of aerobic capacity. Our goal was to investigate spatial changes in morphological and mechanical properties displayed using 3D topographical maps of the quadriceps muscle and tendons after 200 m flying start and 4,000 m individual pursuit race in elite track cyclists. We hypothesized a non-uniform distribution of the changes in the quadriceps muscle stiffness (QMstiff), and acute alterations in quadriceps tendon (QTthick) and patellar tendon (PTthick) thickness. Fifteen men elite sprint and 15 elite men endurance track cyclists participated. Sprint track cyclists participated in a 200 m flying start, while endurance track cyclists in 4,000 m individual pursuit. Outcomes including QTthick (5–10–15 mm proximal to the upper edge of the patella), PTthick (5–10–15–20 mm inferior to the apex of the patella)—using ultrasonography evaluation, QMstiff, and quadriceps tendon stiffness (QTstiff) were measured according to anatomically defined locations (point 1–8) and patellar tendon stiffness (PTstiff)—using myotonometry, measured in a midway point between the patella distal and the tuberosity of tibial. All parameters were assessed before and after (up to 5 min) the 200 m or 4,000 m events. Sprint track cyclists had significantly larger QTthick and PTthick than endurance track cyclists. Post-hoc analysis showed significant spatial differences in QMstiff between rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, and vastus medialis in sprint track cyclists. At before race, sprint track cyclists presented significantly higher mean QTthick and PTthick, and higher QMstiff and the QTstiff, as compared with the endurance track cyclists. The observed changes in PTThick and QTThick were mostly related to adaptation-based vascularity and hypertrophy processes. The current study suggests that assessments using both ultrasonography and myotonometry provides crucial information about tendons and muscles properties and their acute adaptation to exercise. Higher stiffness in sprint compared with endurance track cyclists at baseline seems to highlight alterations in mechanical properties of the tendon and muscle that could lead to overuse injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Klich
- Department of Paralympic Sport, University School of Physical Education in Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Ficek
- Department of Physiotherapy, Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Katowice, Poland.,Galen Orthopedic Center, Bieruń, Poland
| | | | - Andrzej Klimek
- Biomedical Science Institute, University School of Physical Education in Kraków, Kraków, Poland
| | - Adam Kawczyński
- Department of Paralympic Sport, University School of Physical Education in Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Pascal Madeleine
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Sport Sciences-Performance and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Cesar Fernández-de-Las-Peñas
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation, and Physical Medicine, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain.,Cátedra Institucional en Docencia, Clínica e Investigación en Fisioterapia: Terapia Manual, Punción Seca y Ejercicio Terapéutico, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain
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Chang TT, Feng YN, Zhu Y, Liu CL, Wang XQ, Zhang ZJ. Objective Assessment of Regional Stiffness in Achilles Tendon in Different Ankle Joint Positions Using the MyotonPRO. Med Sci Monit 2020; 26:e926407. [PMID: 33071278 PMCID: PMC7583434 DOI: 10.12659/msm.926407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Achilles tendinopathy commonly occurs in specific regions of the tendon, and Achilles tendon stiffness can be related to local pathological changes in the tendon. The MyotonPRO is a new handheld device that conveniently assesses stiffness of muscles and tendons. This study aimed to 1) evaluate the intra- and inter-rater reliability of stiffness measurements of the Achilles tendon at different ankle positions, 2) investigate the modulation of stiffness at different ankle joint angles, and 3) examine the differences between 2 regions of Achilles tendon stiffness. MATERIAL AND METHODS Thirty healthy young adults (15 men and 15 women) participated in this study. The regional Achilles tendon stiffness at 0 cm (AT-0) and 6 cm (AT-6) above the tendon insertion were evaluated by the MyotonPRO in the neutral position and 10° dorsiflexion of the ankle joint. Measurements of stiffness were taken by 2 raters on the first day and 5 days later. The stiffness data were compared by repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). RESULTS The intra- and inter-rater reliability of stiffness measurements at AT-0 and AT-6 for each ankle position were good (all intraclass correlation coefficients >0.84). A significant modulation of Achilles tendon stiffness was obtained at different ankle joint angles (P<0.05). Stiffness at AT-0 was higher than at AT-6 (P<0.05) in both positions. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest the MyotonPRO reliably assessed Achilles tendon stiffness and monitors its modulation, and tendon stiffness increased with ankle dorsiflexion. Stiffness was also nonuniform along the length of the tendon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Tian Chang
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China (mainland)
| | - Ya-Nan Feng
- Rehabilitation Therapy Center, Luoyang Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, Henan, China (mainland)
| | - Yi Zhu
- Department of Musculoskeletal Pain Rehabilitation, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China (mainland)
| | - Chun-Long Liu
- Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China (mainland)
| | - Xue-Qiang Wang
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China (mainland)
| | - Zhi-Jie Zhang
- Rehabilitation Therapy Center, Luoyang Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, Henan, China (mainland)
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Jędrzejewski G, Kasper-Jędrzejewska M, Dolibog P, Szyguła R, Schleip R, Halski T. The Rolf Method of Structural Integration on Fascial Tissue Stiffness, Elasticity, and Superficial Blood Perfusion in Healthy Individuals: The Prospective, Interventional Study. Front Physiol 2020; 11:1062. [PMID: 33041843 PMCID: PMC7522439 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.01062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: There are multiple theories surrounding the physiological impact of structural integration (SI) with little evidence or research corroborating any of these. The aim of the study was to assess the effectiveness of 10 sessions of SI on fascial tissue (FT) superficial blood perfusion, stiffness, and elasticity in 13 healthy women. Methods: This was a prospective, interventional study. The primary outcome measures were FTs’ superficial blood perfusion, stiffness, and elasticity of bilateral selected FT points on the body. Data were collected before and after 10 sessions of SI intervention. Statistical analysis was performed using the non-parametric Wilcoxon test (intragroup comparison). Results: The superficial blood perfusion increased significantly in the most selected FT points on the body (p < 0.05). SI interventions produced significant decreases in selected points (brachioradialis, biceps brachii, and trapezius; p < 0.05) of FT stiffness and significant increases in elasticity (brachioradialis, biceps brachii, triceps surae, and trapezius; p < 0.05), especially in the FT of the right (dominant) upper limb. Conclusion: A 10-session of SI demonstrated positive effects on increasing superficial blood perfusion contributed to a decrease in FT stiffness and an increase in elasticity properties in the dominant upper limb. Data collection for this study is currently underway, and the trial is registered at ISRCTN.com with the identifier: ISRCTN46707309.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Paweł Dolibog
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Opole, Opole, Poland
| | - Renata Szyguła
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Opole, Opole, Poland
| | - Robert Schleip
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany.,Diploma University of Applied Sciences, Bad Sooden-Allendorf, Germany
| | - Tomasz Halski
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Opole, Opole, Poland
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Sichting F, Kram NC. Phantom material testing indicates that the mechanical properties, geometrical dimensions, and tensional state of tendons affect oscillation-based measurements. Physiol Meas 2020; 41:095010. [PMID: 33021964 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6579/abb4b3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is an increasing interest in the application of oscillation-based measurement techniques to evaluate the mechanical stiffness of healthy and diseased tendons. These techniques measure the stiffness of a tendon indirectly by registering the oscillation response of a tendon to an external mechanical impulse. Although these measurement techniques seem to be comparatively easy and time-saving, their applicability is implicitly limited by their indirect measurement principle. APPROACH In this study, we aim to find evidence that the oscillation response of a tendon to an external mechanical impulse is not only affected by the stiffness of a tendon but also by the tendons' cross-sectional area (CSA), length, and tension. Therefore, we reviewed the current literature on oscillation-based techniques that measure in vivo tendon properties. Further, a phantom material was used to mimic the nature of tendons and to test the impact of four factors on oscillation-based measurements. MAIN RESULTS Our results indicate that the mechanical properties, geometrical dimensions (length and CSA), and tensional state affect oscillation-based measures. Surprisingly, most studies on tendon behavior often exclusively associate their oscillation-based measurements with the mechanical stiffness of a tendon. SIGNIFICANCE While this narrow perspective bears the risk of misinterpretation or false implications, a broader understanding of oscillation-based measurements has the potential to shed new light on the interaction of muscles and tendons in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Freddy Sichting
- Department of Human Locomotion, Chemnitz University of Technology, Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Nicolai C Kram
- Department of Human Locomotion, Chemnitz University of Technology, Chemnitz, Germany
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