1
|
Keerasomboon T, Soga T, Hirose N. The Effect of Variations in Knee and Hip Angles on Electromyographic Activity of the Hamstrings and Related Muscles During the Nordic Hamstring Exercise. Int J Sports Phys Ther 2024; 19:275-283. [PMID: 38439779 PMCID: PMC10909307 DOI: 10.26603/001c.92745] [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: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The benefit of performing the Nordic Hamstring Exercise (NHE) on an inclined board has been described, however, isometric hamstring activation in different knee and hip angles has not yet been thoroughly explored. Purpose This study investigated the effect of variations in knee and hip angles during the isometric performance of the NHE on electromyographic activity of the hamstring muscles. Study design Crossover study. Methods Thirteen male volunteers performed isometric contractions during the NHE with the knee (30°, 50°, 60°) and the hip (0°, 30°, and 45°) in various angles of flexion on a leg support platform which was inclined at 30°. An electrical goniometer was used to monitor the knee and hip joint angles during 5-s isometric contractions. A multivariate analysis of variance with repeated measures was used to compare normalized electromyographic values of each muscle across different knee and hip angles, followed by pairwise comparisons. Results The electromyographic activity of the biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus at a knee angle of 30° and hip angle of 0° were significantly higher than those observed with a knee angle of 50° and hip angle of 0°, or a knee angle of 60° and hip angle of 0° (p<0.05). The electromyographic activity of the semimembranosus at a knee angle of 60° and hip angle of 45° was significantly higher than values obtained with knee and hip angles of 60° and 0°, respectively (p<0.05). Conclusions The results indicate that using a knee flexion of 30° and a hip flexion of 0°, while isometrically performing the NHE on a platform inclined at 30°, may optimize electromyographic activity of the hamstrings. Level of Evidence 3.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Toshiaki Soga
- Graduate School of Sport Sciences, Waseda University, Japan
- Graduate School of Engineering and Science, Shibaura Institute of Technology, Japan
- Research Fellow of Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Japan
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Elias G, Jerez-Mayorga D, Intelangelo L. Does the Position of the Ankle Matter During the Single Gluteal Bridge in Futsal Players? An Electromyographic Analysis. J Sport Rehabil 2024; 33:73-78. [PMID: 37917981 DOI: 10.1123/jsr.2022-0425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT The aim of this study was to analyze the muscle activity of the hamstring muscles and the lateral gastrocnemius during different variants of the single-leg bridge (SLB) in futsal players. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. METHODS Twenty-two futsal players (age = 24.8 [3.9] y) volunteered to participate in this study. The participants performed 3 variations of the SLB with the knee flexed at 45°. The first position was performed with the ankle in plantar position with flat support, the second with the ankle in dorsiflexion (DF) with heel support, and the third with the ankle in DF and external rotation (ER) with heel support. The Wilcoxon rank-sum test assessed the difference between variables for samples with the rank-biserial correlation effect size. Spearman correlation coefficients were used to examine the associations of the percentage maximal voluntary isometric contraction for each muscle with peak force and rate of force development with 3 different variances of the SLB. RESULTS The variation of ankle DF and ER with heel support generated higher muscle activity in BF in concentric (P < .01, effect size [ES] = -0.613); isometric (P < .042, ES = -0.494); and eccentric (P < .005, ES = -0.668) contraction than ankle DF with heel support. In contrast, the variation of ankle DF and ER with heel support generated fewer muscle activity in lateral gastrocnemius in concentric (P < .001, ES = 0.779); isometric (P < .003, ES = 0.708); and eccentric (P < .014, ES = 0.589) contraction than ankle DF with heel support. CONCLUSIONS The position of DF and ER was the best position in SLB to train the BF. It could be convenient to start rehabilitation of the BF with flat foot postition or ankle in DF with heel support and progress with the position of the ankle in DF and ER with heel support.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gonzalo Elias
- Musculoskeletal Research Unit, University Center for Assistance, Teaching and Research, University of Gran Rosario, Corrientes, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Daniel Jerez-Mayorga
- Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago de Chile, Chile
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Leonardo Intelangelo
- Musculoskeletal Research Unit, University Center for Assistance, Teaching and Research, University of Gran Rosario, Corrientes, Rosario, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Cadeo GM, Fujita RA, Villalba MM, Silva NRS, Júnior CI, Pearcey GEP, Gomes MM. Myoelectric activity and improvements in strength and hypertrophy are unaffected by the ankle position during prone leg curl exercise - a within person randomized trial. Eur J Sport Sci 2023; 23:2200-2209. [PMID: 37194431 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2023.2214794] [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] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
To examine the effect of ankle position (i.e. gastrocnemius muscle length) on training outcomes during leg curl exercise, we recruited untrained and trained healthy adults to participate in two separate experiments. In Experiment 1, we studied the acute influence of ankle position on knee flexor myoelectric (EMG) activity during leg curl exercise in a group of trained and a separate group of untrained adults. In Experiment 2, we studied the effects of ankle position on knee flexors muscle thickness and torque across a 10-week training protocol in trained adults. We hypothesized that leg curl exercise with the ankle in a plantarflexed position would enhance EMG activity, muscular strength, and hamstrings muscle thickness. We randomized the legs within a person to perform leg curl exercise with one in a plantarflexed position and the other in a dorsiflexed position. Experiment 1 revealed no significant differences between ankle positions in the EMG activity of hamstring muscle in either group (all p > 0.05). Experiment 2 revealed a significant pre- to post-intervention increase in biceps femoris long head (BFLH) muscle thickness (p = 0.026) and isometric torque (p = 0.03), but there were no significant effects of the ankle position (p = 0.596) or interaction between ankle position and timepoint for these variables (p = 0.420). In sum, the ankle position did not have acute effects on hamstrings EMG activity, nor did it affect strength and hypertrophy adaptations after 10-weeks of leg curl exercise training. Interestingly, however, the limb which performed leg curl exercise in a dorsiflexed position performed a higher total training volume.Highlights Different ankle positions (i.e. dorsiflexion or plantarflexion) do not affect hamstrings EMG activity during prone leg curl exercise.Different ankle positions show similar adaptation in strength and hypertrophy of biceps femoris long head after 10 weeks of training.Training in the plantarflexed position may be useful for time-constrained individuals, allowing similar training adaptations with smaller training volume.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela M Cadeo
- School of Physical Education and Sport of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Rafael A Fujita
- Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Marina M Villalba
- Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Nilson R S Silva
- School of Physical Education and Sport of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Claudinei Iossi Júnior
- School of Physical Education and Sport of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Gregory E P Pearcey
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Canada
- Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, USA
| | - Matheus M Gomes
- School of Physical Education and Sport of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
- Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hiroshige Y, Yamaguchi R, Iriguchi K, Sakimura N, Goto K, Ebato T, Watanabe D. Knee flexor muscle fatigue during repeated Nordic hamstring exercise. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2023; 63:1084-1092. [PMID: 37410445 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.23.14896-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nordic hamstring exercise is an effective method for preventing hamstring strain injury. In this study, we investigated the response of knee flexors regarding increased muscle force and fatigue when the Nordic hamstring exercise was performed repeatedly to further understand how it can prevent hamstring strain injury. METHODS The Nordic hamstring exercise was performed 10 times by 53 athletes; knee flexor peak tensile force and the respective flexion angle were compared at different phases during this sequence: phase 1, 1st Nordic hamstring exercise force; phase 2, mean value during the 2-4th repetitions; phase 3, mean value during the 5-7th repetitions; and phase 4, mean value during the 8-10th repetitions. We also divided the knee flexor peak force into deep and slight flexion zones and evaluated changes during different phases. RESULTS Knee flexor peak force was most significant in phase 2 and decreased during subsequent phases. The knee angle at which peak force was exerted was greatest in phase 1 and decreased thereafter. When we compared the knee flexor peak force in different flexion angle zones, increased muscle force in the slight flexion zone was greater than increased muscle force in the deep flexion zone in phases 2 and 3. CONCLUSIONS Enhancement of the knee flexor force, especially in the slight flexion zone occurs after only a few repetitions of the Nordic hamstring exercise.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yosuke Hiroshige
- Institute of Sports Science and Medicine, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan -
| | - Ryusei Yamaguchi
- Graduate School of Sport Sciences, Waseda University, Saitana, Japan
| | - Kai Iriguchi
- Faculty of Physical Education, International Pacific University, Okayama, Japan
| | - Naruki Sakimura
- Faculty of Physical Education, International Pacific University, Okayama, Japan
| | - Keita Goto
- Faculty of Physical Education, International Pacific University, Okayama, Japan
| | - Tomoki Ebato
- Faculty of Physical Education, International Pacific University, Okayama, Japan
| | - Daiki Watanabe
- Graduate School of Sport and Health Sciences, Osaka University of Health and Sports Sciences, Osaka, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kim S, Park J, Her J. Comparison of Muscle Activity and Muscle Thickness According to Knee Flexion Angle during Supine Bridge Exercises using the Abdominal Drawing-in Maneuver on an Unstable Surface. J Sports Sci Med 2023; 22:431-435. [PMID: 37711708 PMCID: PMC10499130 DOI: 10.52082/jssm.2023.431] [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: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated changes in deep trunk muscle thickness and lower extremity muscle activities during bridge exercises with the abdominal drawing-in maneuver. Bridge exercises were conducted on an unstable surface at different knee flexion angles (60º, 90º and 120º), with the aim of identifying more effective angles for bridge exercises. This study included 21 healthy adults, aged 20-27 years. Biceps femoris (BF), rectus abdominis, and rectus femoris activity was measured using surface electromyography. The thicknesses of the transverse abdominis (TrA), external oblique (EO) and internal oblique (IO) muscles were measured. BF (p = 0.000, partial η2 = 0.670) activity increased considerably as the knee flexion angle decreased. TrA (p = 0.000, partial η2 = 0.883) and IO (p = 0.000, partial η2 = 0.892) thickness significantly increased, while EO (p = 0.000, partial η2 = 0.893) thickness decreased as the knee flexion angle decreased. When performing bridge exercises using the abdominal drawing-in maneuver on an unstable surface, the knee flexion angles should be at 120º and 60º to increase trunk stability and lower extremity muscle activity, respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sumin Kim
- Department of Physical Therapy, Hallym Polytechnic University, Chuncheon-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Junhyung Park
- Department of Physical Therapy, Dongguk University Medical Center 27, Goyang-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Jingang Her
- Department of Physical Therapy, Hallym Polytechnic University, Chuncheon-si, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Lionardo de Paula B, Pinheiro BV, Segura-Ortí E, Barros FS, Veras PM, Ávila KS, Lucinda LMF, Cavalcanti Garcia MA, Reboredo MM. Association Between Protocols of the Sit-to-Stand Test and Lower Limb Muscle Force Output in Patients on Hemodialysis and Subjects Without Chronic Kidney Disease. J Ren Nutr 2023:S1051-2276(23)00019-5. [PMID: 36791983 DOI: 10.1053/j.jrn.2023.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the association of three protocols of the sit-to-stand (STS) test with muscle force output of knee extension (KE) and knee flexion (KF) in patients on hemodialysis and subjects without chronic kidney disease. METHODS This cross-sectional study included a hemodialysis group [n = 60, 59.5 (16.8) years, 55% female] and a control group [n = 60, 43.0 (11.8) years, 50% female]. The assessments were performed in 2 days, and the participants were submitted to three protocols of STS test (5-repetition STS, 10-repetition STS and 30-s STS) or muscle force output of the KE and KF evaluation by handheld dynamometer based on randomization. RESULTS The hemodialysis group presented reduced muscle force output of the KE and KF, a longer time to perform the 5 STS and 10 STS tests, and a lower number of repetitions in the 30-s STS test. The three STS tests were associated with muscle force output of the KE in the hemodialysis group, in which the 10-repetition STS test showed the best association (R2 = 0.47; adjusted R2 = 0.42). However, the only association between the STS test and muscle force output of the KE in the control group was found in the 10-repetition STS test (R2 = 0.20; adjusted R2 = 0.13). CONCLUSIONS The three protocols of STS tests were associated with muscle force output of the KE in patients on hemodialysis. However, the 10-repetition STS test was the best protocol to estimate the quadriceps muscle torque in these patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Lionardo de Paula
- University Hospital of Federal University of Juiz de Fora - Empresa Brasileira de Serviços Hospitalares, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Bruno Valle Pinheiro
- University Hospital of Federal University of Juiz de Fora - Empresa Brasileira de Serviços Hospitalares, Minas Gerais, Brazil; School of Medicine, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Eva Segura-Ortí
- Department of Physiotherapy, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
| | - Fabrício Sciammarella Barros
- University Hospital of Federal University of Juiz de Fora - Empresa Brasileira de Serviços Hospitalares, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Priscila Monteiro Veras
- University Hospital of Federal University of Juiz de Fora - Empresa Brasileira de Serviços Hospitalares, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Kéller Soares Ávila
- University Hospital of Federal University of Juiz de Fora - Empresa Brasileira de Serviços Hospitalares, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Leda Marília Fonseca Lucinda
- University Hospital of Federal University of Juiz de Fora - Empresa Brasileira de Serviços Hospitalares, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Maycon Moura Reboredo
- University Hospital of Federal University of Juiz de Fora - Empresa Brasileira de Serviços Hospitalares, Minas Gerais, Brazil; School of Medicine, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Otsuka M, Isaka T, Terada M, Arimitsu T, Kurihara T, Shinohara Y. Associations of time to return to performance following acute posterior thigh injuries with running biomechanics, hamstring function, and structure in collegiate sprinters: A prospective cohort design. Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon) 2022; 100:105789. [PMID: 36272256 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2022.105789] [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] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The time to return to sport from acute hamstring strain injuries is associated with several functional and structural impairments. However, not all previous studies assessed the preinjury level before acute hamstring strain injuries directly. The purpose of this study was to examine the associations of the time to return to performance following acute hamstring strain injuries with deficits in running biomechanics, hamstring function and structure in collegiate sprinters by a prospective study. METHODS Using a prospective cohort design, 72 participants were recruited from a collegiate track and field team. At the preinjury assessment, a 60-m running-specific test, passive straight leg raise test and isometric knee flexion strength test were assessed at the beginning of the competitive season for three consecutive years (2017-2019). Afterwards, postinjury examinations were performed only in sprinters with acute hamstring strain injuries. FINDINGS Twelve sprinters strained their hamstring muscle (incidence rate of hamstring strain injuries: 16.7%); the majority (n = 10) were classified as grades 0-2. The running speed deficit of the running-specific test was associated with the time to return to performance as well as the passive straight leg raise test deficit. In the running-specific test, lower-limb kinetic deficits were more strongly associated with the time to return to performance compared to lower-limb kinematic deficits. INTERPRETATION A running-specific test may be considered one of the most convenient and valid tests for assessing rehabilitation progress after acute hamstring strain injuries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Otsuka
- Faculty of Sport Science, Nippon Sport Science University, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - T Isaka
- Faculty of Health and Sport Science, Ritsumeikan University, Shiga, Japan
| | - M Terada
- Faculty of Health and Sport Science, Ritsumeikan University, Shiga, Japan
| | - T Arimitsu
- Faculty of Health Care, Hachinohe Gakuin University, Aomori, Japan
| | - T Kurihara
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Kokushikan University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Y Shinohara
- Faculty of Health and Sport Science, Ritsumeikan University, Shiga, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kellis E, Blazevich AJ. Hamstrings force-length relationships and their implications for angle-specific joint torques: a narrative review. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2022; 14:166. [PMID: 36064431 PMCID: PMC9446565 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-022-00555-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Temporal biomechanical and physiological responses to physical activity vary between individual hamstrings components as well as between exercises, suggesting that hamstring muscles operate differently, and over different lengths, between tasks. Nevertheless, the force-length properties of these muscles have not been thoroughly investigated. The present review examines the factors influencing the hamstrings’ force-length properties and relates them to in vivo function. A search in four databases was performed for studies that examined relations between muscle length and force, torque, activation, or moment arm of hamstring muscles. Evidence was collated in relation to force-length relationships at a sarcomere/fiber level and then moment arm-length, activation-length, and torque-joint angle relations. Five forward simulation models were also used to predict force-length and torque-length relations of hamstring muscles. The results show that, due to architectural differences alone, semitendinosus (ST) produces less peak force and has a flatter active (contractile) fiber force-length relation than both biceps femoris long head (BFlh) and semimembranosus (SM), however BFlh and SM contribute greater forces through much of the hip and knee joint ranges of motion. The hamstrings’ maximum moment arms are greater at the hip than knee, so the muscles tend to act more as force producers at the hip but generate greater joint rotation and angular velocity at the knee for a given muscle shortening length and speed. However, SM moment arm is longer than SM and BFlh, partially alleviating its reduced force capacity but also reducing its otherwise substantial excursion potential. The current evidence, bound by the limitations of electromyography techniques, suggests that joint angle-dependent activation variations have minimal impact on force-length or torque-angle relations. During daily activities such as walking or sitting down, the hamstrings appear to operate on the ascending limbs of their force-length relations while knee flexion exercises performed with hip angles 45–90° promote more optimal force generation. Exercises requiring hip flexion at 45–120° and knee extension 45–0° (e.g. sprint running) may therefore evoke greater muscle forces and, speculatively, provide a more optimum adaptive stimulus. Finally, increases in resistance to stretch during hip flexion beyond 45° result mainly from SM and BFlh muscles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eleftherios Kellis
- Laboratory of Neuromechanics, Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences at Serres, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, TEFAA Serres, 62100, Serres, Greece.
| | - Anthony J Blazevich
- Centre for Human Performance, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, 6027, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Effects of Knee Flexion Angles on the Joint Force and Muscle Force during Bridging Exercise: A Musculoskeletal Model Simulation. JOURNAL OF HEALTHCARE ENGINEERING 2022; 2022:7975827. [PMID: 35677781 PMCID: PMC9168199 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7975827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Bridging exercise is commonly used to increase the strength of the hip extensor and trunk muscles in physical therapy practice. However, the effect of lower limb positioning on the joint and muscle forces during the bridging exercise has not been analyzed. The purpose of this study was to use a musculoskeletal model simulation to examine joint and muscle forces during bridging at three different knee joint angle positions. Fifteen healthy young males (average age: 23.5 ± 2.2 years) participated in this study. Muscle and joint forces of the lumbar spine and hip joint during the bridging exercise were estimated at knee flexion angles of 60°, 90°, and 120° utilizing motion capture data. The lumbar joint force and erector spinae muscle force decreased significantly as the angle of the knee joint increased. The resultant joint forces were 200.0 ± 23.2% of body weight (%BW), 174.6 ± 18.6% BW, and 150.5 ± 15.8% BW at 60°, 90°, and 120° knee flexion angles, respectively. On the other hand, the hip joint force, muscle force of the gluteus maxims, and adductor magnus tended to increase as the angle of the knee joint increased. The resultant joint forces were 274.4 ± 63.7% BW, 303.9 ± 85.8% BW, and 341.1 ± 85.7% BW at a knee flexion angle of 60°, 90°, and 120°, respectively. The muscle force of the biceps femoris decreased significantly with increased knee flexion during the bridging exercise. In conclusion, the knee flexion position during bridging exercise has different effects on the joint and muscle forces around the hip joint and lumbar spine. These findings would help clinicians prescribe an effective bridging exercise that includes optimal lower limb positioning for patients who require training of back and hip extensor muscles.
Collapse
|
10
|
Kennedy D, Casebolt JB, Farren GL, Fiaud V, Bartlett M, Strong L. Electromyographic differences of the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, biceps femoris, and vastus lateralis between the barbell hip thrust and barbell glute bridge. Sports Biomech 2022:1-15. [PMID: 35586943 DOI: 10.1080/14763141.2022.2074875] [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] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Hip extensor muscles are critical to sport performance as events requiring sprinting and forceful landings are highly dependent on these muscles. Despite biomechanical differences between the barbell hip thrust (BHT) and the barbell glute bridge (BGB), both are biomechanically efficient ways to load this musculature for training purposes. Research investigating the differences in muscular activity between the BHT and BGB has yet been conducted. The aim of this study was to investigate, through surface electromyography, if one exercise is more optimal than the other in producing greater muscle activation for specific hip extensor muscles. Ten male participants completed a two-part study protocol. Results revealed the BHT elicited significantly greater muscle activity within the vastus lateralis for peak and mean outcomes; however, the BGB elicited significantly greater muscle activity in the upper and lower gluteus maximus for peak and mean outcomes and mean outcome in the gluteus medius. Current findings suggest, the BGB is, at minimum, a superior substitute for the BHT for eliciting a larger magnitude of activity in the gluteus maximus. Future studies between the two exercises are warranted to discern which produces greater hypertrophy and whether adaption of the BHT or BGB transfers more optimally to sport performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Kennedy
- Department of Sports and Exercise Sciences, West Texas A&M University, Canyon, TX, USA
| | | | - G L Farren
- Department of Sports and Exercise Sciences, West Texas A&M University, Canyon, TX, USA
| | - V Fiaud
- Department of Sports and Exercise Sciences, West Texas A&M University, Canyon, TX, USA
| | - M Bartlett
- Department of Sports and Exercise Sciences, West Texas A&M University, Canyon, TX, USA
| | - L Strong
- Department of Sports and Exercise Sciences, West Texas A&M University, Canyon, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Afonso J, Rocha-Rodrigues S, Clemente FM, Aquino M, Nikolaidis PT, Sarmento H, Fílter A, Olivares-Jabalera J, Ramirez-Campillo R. The Hamstrings: Anatomic and Physiologic Variations and Their Potential Relationships With Injury Risk. Front Physiol 2021; 12:694604. [PMID: 34305648 PMCID: PMC8294189 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.694604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The incidence and recurrence of hamstrings injuries are very high in sports, posing elevated performance and financial-related costs. Attempts to identify the risk factors involved in predicting vulnerability to hamstrings injury is important for designing exercise-based programs that aim to mitigate the rate and severity of hamstrings injuries and improve rehabilitation strategies. However, research has shown that non-modifiable risk factors may play a greater role than modifiable risk factors. Recognizing non-modifiable risk factors and understanding their implications will afford the prescription of better suited exercise programs, i.e., that are more respectful of the individual characteristics. In a nutshell, non-modifiable risk factors can still be acted upon, even if indirectly. In this context, an underexplored topic is how intra and inter- individual anatomic and physiologic variations in hamstrings (e.g., muscle bellies, fiber types, tendon length, aponeurosis width, attachment sites, sex- and age-related differences) concur to alter hamstrings injuries risk. Some anatomic and physiologic variations may be modifiable through exercise interventions (e.g., cross-sectional area), while others may not (e.g., supernumerary muscle bellies). This apparent dichotomy may hide a greater complexity, i.e., there may be risk factors that are partially modifiable. Therefore, we explored the available information on the anatomic variations of the hamstrings, providing a deeper insight into the individual risk factors for hamstrings injuries and contributing with better knowledge and potential applications toward a more individualized exercise prescription.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José Afonso
- Centre for Research, Education, Innovation and Intervention in Sport, Faculty of Sport of the University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sílvia Rocha-Rodrigues
- Escola Superior de Desporto e Lazer, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, Viana do Castelo, Portugal
- Research Centre in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development, Vila Real, Portugal
- Tumor & Microenvironment Interactions Group, Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Porto, Portugal
| | - Filipe M. Clemente
- Escola Superior de Desporto e Lazer, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, Viana do Castelo, Portugal
- Instituto de Telecomunicações, Delegação da Covilhã, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Michele Aquino
- Department of Health and Sport Sciences, Adelphi University, New York, NY, United States
| | | | - Hugo Sarmento
- Research Unit for Sport and Physical Activity, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Alberto Fílter
- FSI Sport Research Lab, Football Science Institute, Granada, Spain
- Research Group Physical Activity, Health and Sport CTS-948, University of Pablo de Olavide, Seville, Spain
| | - Jesús Olivares-Jabalera
- FSI Sport Research Lab, Football Science Institute, Granada, Spain
- Sport and Health University Research Institute, Department of Physical and Sports Education, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Rodrigo Ramirez-Campillo
- Department of Physical Activity Sciences, Universidad de Los Lagos, Santiago, Chile
- Centro de Investigación en Fisiología del Ejercicio, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Hirose N, Tsuruike M, Higashihara A. Biceps Femoris Muscle is Activated by Performing Nordic Hamstring Exercise at a Shallow Knee Flexion Angle. JOURNAL OF SPORTS SCIENCE AND MEDICINE 2021; 20:275-283. [PMID: 34211320 DOI: 10.52082/jssm.2021.275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The semitendinosus (ST) muscle is primarily used during Nordic hamstring exercise (NHE), which is often prescribed for preventing hamstring injury, though the biceps femoris long head (BFlh) muscle that is more susceptible to injuries. Thus, this study aimed to identify the modulation of BFlh muscle activity with different knee flexion angles during NHE using an inclined platform. Fourteen male athletes performed NHE and maintained their position at maximum inclination (NH). Subjects also performed isometric NHE using a platform inclined to 50° (ICL) and 40° (ICH), and the knee flexion angle was controlled to 50° and 30°. The electromyography (EMG) activity of the BFlh, ST, semimembranosus, gluteus maximus, elector spinae, and rectus abdominus muscles was determined during each exercise. The EMG of the ST was higher than that of the BFlh during NHE and the highest of all muscles in all exercises (p < 0.05). Moreover, the activity of the BFlh tended to be higher than that of the ST for ICH than for ICL, regardless of the knee joint angle. The activity of the BFlh becomes equivalent to that of the ST during NHE at a knee flexion angle of less than 50°. These results indicate that performing NHE at a shallow knee flexion angle will enhance the activity of the BFlh muscle.
Collapse
|
13
|
Effect of Knee Joint Angle on Regional Hamstrings Activation During Isometric Knee-Flexion Exercise. J Sport Rehabil 2021; 30:905-910. [PMID: 33571961 DOI: 10.1123/jsr.2020-0181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Each hamstring muscle is subdivided into several regions by multiple motor nerve branches, which implies each region has different muscle activation properties. However, little is known about the muscle activation of each region with a change in the knee joint angle. Understanding of regional activation of the hamstrings could be helpful for designing rehabilitation and training programs targeted at strengthening a specific region. OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of knee joint angle on the activity level of several regions within the individual hamstring muscles during isometric knee-flexion exercise with maximal effort (MVCKF). DESIGN Within-subjects repeated measures. SETTING University laboratory. PARTICIPANTS Sixteen young males with previous participation in sports competition and resistance training experience. INTERVENTION The participants performed 2 MVCKF trials at each knee joint angle of 30°, 60°, and 90°. OUTCOME MEASURES Surface electromyography was used to measure muscle activity in the proximal, middle, and distal regions of the biceps femoris long head (BFlh), semitendinosus, and semimembranosus of hamstrings at 30°, 60°, and 90° of knee flexion during MVCKF. RESULTS Muscle activity levels in the proximal and middle regions of the BFlh were higher at 30° and 60° of knee flexion than at 90° during MVCKF (all: P < .05). Meanwhile, the activity levels in the distal region of the BFlh were not different among all of the evaluated knee joint angles. In semitendinosus and semimembranosus, the activity levels were higher at 30° and 60° than at 90°, regardless of region (all: P < .05). CONCLUSION These findings suggest that the effect of knee joint angle on muscle activity level differs between regions of the BFlh, whereas that is similar among regions of semitendinosus and semimembranosus during MVCKF.
Collapse
|
14
|
Hirose N, Kagaya Y, Tsuruike M. The task dependent differences in electromyography activity of hamstring muscles during leg curls and hip extensions. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0245838. [PMID: 33561137 PMCID: PMC7872291 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0245838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the influence of the task type on the relative electromyography (EMG) activity of biceps femoris long head (BFlh) to semitendinosus (ST) muscles, and of proximal to distal regions during isometric leg-curl (LC) and hip-extension (HE). Twenty male volunteers performed isometric LC with the knee flexed to 30° (LC30) and 90° (LC90), as well as isometric HE with the knee extended (HE0) and flexed to 90° (HE90), at 40% and 100% maximal voluntary contraction (MVIC). Hip position was neutral in all conditions. EMG activity was recorded from the proximal and distal region of the BFlh and ST muscles. BFlh/ST was calculated from the raw root-mean-square (RMS) amplitudes. The RMS of 40% MVIC was normalized using MVIC data and the proximal/distal (P/D) ratio of normalized EMG (NEMG) was calculated. The BFlh/ST ratio was higher in HE0 than in LC90 during MVIC and 40% MVIC (p<0.05), and was higher in HE90 than in LC90 (p<0.05) during 40% MVIC at the proximal region, whereas no difference was observed between HE0 and LC30. There was no inter-task difference in BFlh/ST ratio in the distal region. Furthermore, the P/D ratio was higher in LC90 than in LC30 and HE0 (p<0.05) in BFlh and ST muscles, and was higher in HE90 than in LC30 and HE0 (p<0.05) in BFlh during 40% MVIC. However, there was no difference in P/D ratio between LC30 and LC90, and HE0 and HE90. This showed that there was no task-dependent difference in the EMG activity of the BFlh muscle relative to the ST muscle between prone hip extension and prone knee flexion when the knee joint was set at an equivalent angle. Similarly, there was no task-dependent difference in the NEMG of the proximal region relative to the distal region in BFlh and ST muscles during 40% MVIC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Norikazu Hirose
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Waseda University, Nishitokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Yoshinori Kagaya
- Department of Physical Therapy, Showa University, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Masaaki Tsuruike
- Department of Kinesiology, San Jose State University, San Jose, California, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ikeda H, Miyamori T, Katsuhira J, Sawa R, Shimasaki Y, Takazawa Y, Yoshimura M. Effects of a wearable device and functional wear on spinal alignment and jump performance. J Exerc Sci Fit 2020; 19:91-97. [PMID: 33343670 PMCID: PMC7736979 DOI: 10.1016/j.jesf.2020.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/objective To elucidate the effects of walking exercise using a wearable device and functional wear on spinal alignment and jump performance. Methods In total, 27 female college soccer players were randomly divided into two groups: trunk solution (TS) and compression garments (CGs). Spinal alignment, jump performance, and electromyography activity during the jump performance of the two groups were measured after a 20-min walking exercise. The values for each group were compared t pre- and post-intervention. Results The flexibility of the lower thoracic vertebrae in spinal alignment was increased during extension in the TS group. However, the post-value of the abdominal external oblique muscle during a countermovement jump (CMJ) was significantly lower than its pre-value (p < 0.05). In addition, even though spinal alignment was not affected in the CG group, post-values of the jump height during squat jump and CMJ were significantly higher than their pre-values (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the post-value of the biceps femoris during the countermovement jump with arm was significantly lower than its pre-value (p < 0.05). Conclusion Our study suggested that walking exercise using TS may increase the range of motion of the lower thoracic vertebrae in athletes and reduce the muscular activity of the vastus lateralis during CMJ. Additionally, although spinal aliment is not affected, the jump height may increase using CGs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hayato Ikeda
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health Science, Juntendo University, Japan
| | - Takayuki Miyamori
- Faculty of Health and Sports Science, Juntendo University, Japan.,Department of Health Science, School of Physiotherapy, Juntendo University, Japan
| | | | - Ryuichi Sawa
- Department of Health Science, School of Physiotherapy, Juntendo University, Japan
| | - Yu Shimasaki
- Faculty of Health and Sports Science, Juntendo University, Japan
| | - Yuji Takazawa
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health Science, Juntendo University, Japan.,Faculty of Health and Sports Science, Juntendo University, Japan
| | - Masafumi Yoshimura
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health Science, Juntendo University, Japan.,Faculty of Health and Sports Science, Juntendo University, Japan
| |
Collapse
|