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Morano T, Lancia F, Di Marco A, Viscioni G, Bucci I, Grossi S, Pellegrino R, Cugusi L, Grassadonia A, Manca A, Bullo V, Di Giminiani R, Izzicupo P, Di Baldassarre A, Fusco A, Cortis C, Napolitano G, Di Blasio A. Flexibility and Strength Effects of Adapted Nordic Walking and Myofascial Exercises Practice in Breast Cancer Survivors and Analysis of Differences. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:222. [PMID: 38255109 PMCID: PMC10815343 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12020222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer treatments can elicit negative kinesiological side effects concerning both the posture and functional status of breast cancer survivors. As our body is functionally organized in myofascial meridians, physical exercise practice should favor a whole-body approach rather than a local one. The aim of the study was to investigate and compare the effects of two whole-body disciplines, i.e., adapted Nordic Walking and myofascial exercise, on the flexibility and strength performances in BCS. One hundred and sixty breast cancer survivors were trained three times per week for 12 weeks through adapted Nordic Walking or myofascial exercise. Handgrip, sit and reach, back scratch, and single leg back bridge tests and body composition were assessed at the beginning and completion of the training period. Linear mixed models showed no significant changes in body composition, whereas flexibility (p < 0.001), strength (p < 0.001), and muscle quality index (p = 0.003) changed independently from the treatment. When data modification has been analyzed according to sub-sample membership, no significant differences have been observed. Age, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy seem to have independent effects on several investigated variables. Twelve weeks of adapted myofascial exercise and Nordic Walking led to significant changes in flexibility, strength, and muscle quality in breast cancer survivors, with no apparent superiority of one approach over the other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Morano
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Via Polacchi L. 11, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (T.M.); (F.L.); (A.D.M.); (I.B.); (P.I.); (A.D.B.); (G.N.)
| | - Federica Lancia
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Via Polacchi L. 11, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (T.M.); (F.L.); (A.D.M.); (I.B.); (P.I.); (A.D.B.); (G.N.)
| | - Alessandra Di Marco
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Via Polacchi L. 11, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (T.M.); (F.L.); (A.D.M.); (I.B.); (P.I.); (A.D.B.); (G.N.)
| | - Gianluca Viscioni
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Piazzale Scuro L.A. 10, 37124 Verona, Italy;
| | - Ines Bucci
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Via Polacchi L. 11, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (T.M.); (F.L.); (A.D.M.); (I.B.); (P.I.); (A.D.B.); (G.N.)
| | - Simona Grossi
- Eusoma Breast Center, “G. Bernabeo” Hospital, ASL02 Lanciano-Vasto-Chieti, c.da S. Liberata, 66026 Ortona, Italy;
| | - Raffaello Pellegrino
- Department of Scientific Research, Campus Ludes, Off-Campus Semmelweis University, 6912 Lugano, Switzerland;
| | - Lucia Cugusi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/B, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (L.C.); (A.M.)
| | - Antonino Grassadonia
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine and Dentistry, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
| | - Andrea Manca
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/B, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (L.C.); (A.M.)
| | - Valentina Bullo
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padova, Italy;
| | - Riccardo Di Giminiani
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy;
| | - Pascal Izzicupo
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Via Polacchi L. 11, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (T.M.); (F.L.); (A.D.M.); (I.B.); (P.I.); (A.D.B.); (G.N.)
| | - Angela Di Baldassarre
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Via Polacchi L. 11, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (T.M.); (F.L.); (A.D.M.); (I.B.); (P.I.); (A.D.B.); (G.N.)
| | - Andrea Fusco
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Lazio Meridionale, Via S. Angelo, 03043 Cassino, Italy; (A.F.); (C.C.)
| | - Cristina Cortis
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Lazio Meridionale, Via S. Angelo, 03043 Cassino, Italy; (A.F.); (C.C.)
| | - Giorgio Napolitano
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Via Polacchi L. 11, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (T.M.); (F.L.); (A.D.M.); (I.B.); (P.I.); (A.D.B.); (G.N.)
| | - Andrea Di Blasio
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Via Polacchi L. 11, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (T.M.); (F.L.); (A.D.M.); (I.B.); (P.I.); (A.D.B.); (G.N.)
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Di Giminiani R, Marinelli S, La Greca S, Di Blasio A, Angelozzi M, Cacchio A. Neuromuscular Characteristics of Unilateral and Bilateral Maximal Voluntary Isometric Contractions following ACL Reconstruction. Biology (Basel) 2023; 12:1173. [PMID: 37759573 PMCID: PMC10525486 DOI: 10.3390/biology12091173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Despite the advancement of diagnostic surgical techniques in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction and rehabilitation protocols following ACL injury, only half of the athletes return to sports at a competitive level. A major concern is neuromechanical dysfunction, which occurs with injuries persisting in operated and non-operated legs following ACL rehabilitation. One of the criteria for a safe return to sports participation is based on the maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) performed unilaterally and a comparison between the 'healthy knee' and the 'operated knee'. The present study aimed to investigate MVIC in athletes following ACL rehabilitation during open kinetic chain exercise performed unilaterally and bilateral exercises. Twenty subjects participated in the present investigation: 10 male athletes of regional-national level (skiers, rugby, soccer, and volleyball players) who were previously operated on one knee and received a complete rehabilitation protocol (for 6-9 months) were included in the ACL group (age: 23.4 ± 2.11 years; stature: 182.0 ± 9.9 cm; body mass: 78.6 ± 9.9 kg; body mass index: 23.7 ± 1.9 kg/m2), and 10 healthy male athletes formed the control group (CG: age: 24.0 ± 3.4 years; stature: 180.3 ± 10.7 cm; body mass: 74.9 ± 13.5 kg; body mass index: 22.8 ± 2.7 kg/m2). MVICs synchronised with electromyographic (EMG) activity (recorded on the vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and biceps femoris muscles) were performed during unilateral and bilateral exertions. The rate of force development (RFD) and co-activation index (CI) were also calculated. The differences in the MVIC and RFD between the two legs within each group were not significant (p > 0.05). Vastus lateralis EMG activity during MVIC and biceps femoris EMG activity during RFD were significantly higher in the operated leg than those in the non-operated leg when exertion was performed bilaterally (p < 0.05). The CI was higher in the operated leg than that in the non-operated leg when exertion was performed bilaterally (p < 0.05). Vice versa, vastus medialis EMG activity during RFD was significantly higher in the right leg than that in the left leg when exertion was performed bilaterally (p < 0.05) in the CG. MVICs performed bilaterally represent a reliability modality for highlighting neuromechanical asymmetries. This bilateral exercise should be included in the criteria for a safe return to sports following ACL reconstruction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Di Giminiani
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (S.M.); (S.L.G.)
| | - Stefano Marinelli
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (S.M.); (S.L.G.)
| | - Stefano La Greca
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (S.M.); (S.L.G.)
| | - Andrea Di Blasio
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, ‘G. D’Annunzio’ University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy;
| | - Massimo Angelozzi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (M.A.); (A.C.)
| | - Angelo Cacchio
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (M.A.); (A.C.)
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Russo L, Montagnani E, Pietrantuono D, D’Angona F, Fratini T, Di Giminiani R, Palermi S, Ceccarini F, Migliaccio GM, Lupu E, Padulo J. Self-Myofascial Release of the Foot Plantar Surface: The Effects of a Single Exercise Session on the Posterior Muscular Chain Flexibility after One Hour. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:974. [PMID: 36673731 PMCID: PMC9858880 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20020974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Revised: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated the effects of a single exercise session of Self-Myofascial Release (SMR) on the posterior muscular chain flexibility after one hour from the intervention. Thirty-six participants performed SMR using a rigid ball under the surface of both feet. Participants were tested with the Sit and Reach (S&R) test at four different times: before (T0), immediately after (T1), 30 (T2), and 60 (T3) minutes after the SMR intervention. The sample (n = 36) was categorized into three groups: (1) flexible, (2) average, and (3) stiff, based on the flexibility level at T0 (S&R values of >10 cm, >0 but <10 cm and <0 cm, respectively). For the whole sample, we detected significant improvements in the S&R test between the T1, T2, and T3 compared to T0. The stiff group showed a significant (p < 0.05) improvement between T1−T2 and T1−T3. Results were similar between the average group and the whole sample. The flexible group did not show any significant difference (p > 0.05) over time. In conclusion, this investigation demonstrated that an SMR session of both feet was able to increase posterior muscular chain flexibility up to one hour after intervention. Considering that a standard training session generally lasts one hour, our study can help professionals take advantage of SMR effects for the entire training period. Furthermore, our results also demonstrate that physical exercise practitioners should also assess individuals’ flexibility before training, as the SMR procedure used in this work does not seem necessary in flexible individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Russo
- Department of Human Sciences, Università Telematica degli Studi IUL, 50122 Florence, Italy
| | - Eleonora Montagnani
- Department of Sports and Health Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton BN2 4AT, UK
| | - Davide Pietrantuono
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
| | - Fabiola D’Angona
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
| | - Tommaso Fratini
- Department of Human Sciences, Università Telematica degli Studi IUL, 50122 Florence, Italy
| | - Riccardo Di Giminiani
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Stefano Palermi
- Public Health Department, University of Naples Federico II, 80132 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Ceccarini
- Department of Psychology, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi 129188, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Elena Lupu
- Department of Motor Activities, Petroleum Gas University Ploiesti, 100600 Ploiesti, Romania
| | - Johnny Padulo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
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La Greca S, Rapali M, Ciaprini G, Russo L, Vinciguerra MG, Di Giminiani R. Acute and Chronic Effects of Supervised Flexibility Training in Older Adults: A Comparison of Two Different Conditioning Programs. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:ijerph192416974. [PMID: 36554854 PMCID: PMC9779245 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192416974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Flexibility training is a fundamental biological process that improves the quality of life of the elderly by improving the ranges of motion of joints, postural balance and locomotion, and thus reducing the risk of falling. Two different training programs were assessed acutely and after 12 weeks by means of the sit-and-reach test. Thirty-one healthy older adults were randomly divided into three groups: the Experiment I group (Exp) performed strength and static stretching exercises; the Experiment II group performed dynamic and static stretching exercises; and participants assigned to the control group maintained a sedentary lifestyle for the entire period of the study. Flexibility acutely increased in Exp I by the first (ΔT0 = 7.63 ± 1.26%; ES = 0.36; p = 0.002) and second testing sessions (ΔT1 = 3.74 ± 0.91%; ES = 0.20; p = 0.002). Similarly, it increased in Exp II significantly by the first (ΔT0 = 14.21 ± 3.42%; ES = 0.20; p = 0.011) and second testing sessions (ΔT1 = 9.63 ± 4.29%; ES = 0.13; p = 0.005). Flexibility significantly increased over the 12 weeks of training in Exp I (ΔT0 - T1 = 9.03 ± 3.14%; ES = 0.41; p = 0.020) and Exp II (ΔT0 - T1 = 22.96 ± 9.87%; ES = 0.35; p = 0.005). The acute and chronic differences between the two groups were not significant (p > 0.05). These results suggest the effectiveness of different exercise typologies in improving the flexibility of the posterior muscular chains in older adults. Therefore, the selection of a program to optimize training interventions could be based on the physical characteristics of the participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano La Greca
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Mariano Rapali
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Giuliano Ciaprini
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Luca Russo
- Department of Human Sciences, Italian University Line—IUL, 50122 Florance, Italy
| | - Maria Giulia Vinciguerra
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Riccardo Di Giminiani
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-3476245514
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Di Giminiani R, Giovannelli A, Capuano L, Izzicupo P, Di Blasio A, Masedu F. Neuromuscular Strategies in Stretch-Shortening Exercises with Increasing Drop Heights: The Role of Muscle Coactivation in Leg Stiffness and Power Propulsion. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020; 17:ijerph17228647. [PMID: 33233323 PMCID: PMC7700220 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17228647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
When applying drop jump exercises, knowing the magnitude of the stimulus is fundamental to stabilize the leg joints and to generate movements with the highest power. The effects of different drop heights on leg muscles coactivation, leg stiffness and power propulsion were investigated in fifteen sport science students. Drop jumps from heights of 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 cm in a random order were performed on a force platform. During each drop jump, the ground reaction force, knee angle displacement, and synchronized surface-electromyography root-mean-square (sEMGRMS) activity (vastus lateralis, VL; vastus medialis, VM; rectus femoris, RF; biceps femoris, BF; tibialis anterior, TA and lateral gastrocnemius, LG) were recorded. The coactivation in the pre-contact phase, between VL and BF, VM and BF as well as RF and BF, was dependent on the drop height (p < 0.01; effect size (ES) ranged from 0.45 to 0.90). Leg stiffness was dependent on the drop height (p < 0.001; ES = 0.27-0.28) and was modulated by the coactivation of VM-BF (p = 0.034) and RF-BF (p = 0.046) during the braking phase. Power propulsion was also dependent on the drop height (p < 0.001; ES = 0.34); however, it was primarily modulated by the coactivation of LG-TA during the braking phase (p = 0.002). The coactivation of thigh muscles explains leg stiffness adjustments at different drop heights. On the contrary, the coactivation of shank muscles is mostly responsible for the power propulsion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Di Giminiani
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (A.G.); (L.C.); (F.M.)
| | - Aldo Giovannelli
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (A.G.); (L.C.); (F.M.)
| | - Lorenzo Capuano
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (A.G.); (L.C.); (F.M.)
| | - Pascal Izzicupo
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University “G. D’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (P.I.); (A.D.B.)
| | - Andrea Di Blasio
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University “G. D’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (P.I.); (A.D.B.)
| | - Francesco Masedu
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (A.G.); (L.C.); (F.M.)
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Di Credico A, Gaggi G, Ghinassi B, Mascherini G, Petri C, Giminiani RD, Di Baldassarre A, Izzicupo P. The Influence of Maturity Status on Anthropometric Profile and Body Composition of Youth Goalkeepers. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020; 17:E8247. [PMID: 33171648 PMCID: PMC7664635 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17218247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The anthropometric profile assessment is an important aspect to consider during the growth stages of youth sport practitioners due to its usefulness in controlling maturity status and overall health. We performed an anthropometric profile evaluation in a sample of youth goalkeepers (n = 42) during a training camp, dividing them into three categories based on their years from peak height velocity (YPHV). We also checked if the selection of goalkeepers was associated with the birth quartile. The results showed that most of the participants' anthropometric parameters followed the normal trend according to the maturation stages. However, several subjects showed an overweight/obese condition and/or high waist circumference. Non-optimal values were found, mostly in the group of goalkeepers around the PHV. In addition, no selection based on birth quartile was seen. Therefore, the anthropometric profile and body composition of youth goalkeepers are physiologically affected by maturity status. However, several subjects were found to be overweight/obese and at cardiometabolic risk, suggesting that children and adolescents, although practicing sport, should pay attention to potentially contributing factors such as the attainment of the recommended levels of physical activity, lowering sedentary time, and adopt a healthy lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Di Credico
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University “G. D’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.D.C.); (G.G.); (B.G.); (P.I.)
| | - Giulia Gaggi
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University “G. D’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.D.C.); (G.G.); (B.G.); (P.I.)
| | - Barbara Ghinassi
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University “G. D’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.D.C.); (G.G.); (B.G.); (P.I.)
| | - Gabriele Mascherini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50121 Firenze, Italy; (G.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Cristian Petri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50121 Firenze, Italy; (G.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Riccardo Di Giminiani
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy;
| | - Angela Di Baldassarre
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University “G. D’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.D.C.); (G.G.); (B.G.); (P.I.)
| | - Pascal Izzicupo
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University “G. D’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.D.C.); (G.G.); (B.G.); (P.I.)
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Di Giminiani R, Cardinale M, Ferrari M, Quaresima V. Validation of Fabric-Based Thigh-Wearable EMG Sensors and Oximetry for Monitoring Quadriceps Activity during Strength and Endurance Exercises. Sensors (Basel) 2020; 20:s20174664. [PMID: 32824976 PMCID: PMC7506815 DOI: 10.3390/s20174664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Muscle oximetry based on near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and electromyography (EMG) techniques in adherent clothing might be used to monitor the muscular activity of selected muscle groups while exercising. The fusion of these wearable technologies in sporting garments can allow the objective assessment of the quality and the quantity of the muscle activity as well as the continuous monitoring of exercise programs. Several prototypes integrating EMG and NIRS have been developed previously; however, most devices presented the limitations of not measuring regional muscle oxyhemoglobin saturation and did not embed textile sensors for EMG. The purpose of this study was to compare regional muscle oxyhemoglobin saturation and surface EMG data, measured under resting and dynamic conditions (treadmill run and strength exercises) by a recently developed wearable integrated quadriceps muscle oximetry/EMG system adopting smart textiles for EMG, with those obtained by using two "gold standard" commercial instrumentations for EMG and muscle oximetry. The validity and agreement between the wearable integrated muscle oximetry/EMG system and the "gold standard" instrumentations were assessed by using the Bland-Altman agreement plots to determine the bias. The results support the validity of the data provided by the wearable electronic garment developed purposely for the quadriceps muscle group and suggest the potential of using such device to measure strength and endurance exercises in vivo in various populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Di Giminiani
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-347-6245514
| | - Marco Cardinale
- Aspetar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Doha PO Box 29222, Qatar;
- Department of Computer Science and Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, University College London, London WC1E 6BS, UK
| | - Marco Ferrari
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (M.F.); (V.Q.)
| | - Valentina Quaresima
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (M.F.); (V.Q.)
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Di Giminiani R, Jozsef T, Francesco M. Gender differences on neuromuscular strategy during drop jump: a comment on Helm et al. (2019). Eur J Appl Physiol 2020; 120:2555-2556. [PMID: 32772247 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-020-04465-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Di Giminiani
- Laboratory of Biomechanics of the Musculoskeletal System and Motion Analysis, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio (Coppito 2), 67100, L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Tihanyi Jozsef
- Department of Biomechanics, University of Physical Education, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Masedu Francesco
- Laboratory of Biomechanics of the Musculoskeletal System and Motion Analysis, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio (Coppito 2), 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
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Di Giminiani R, Rucci N, Capuano L, Ponzetti M, Aielli F, Tihanyi J. Individualized Whole-Body Vibration: Neuromuscular, Biochemical, Muscle Damage and Inflammatory Acute Responses. Dose Response 2020; 18:1559325820931262. [PMID: 32647498 PMCID: PMC7328225 DOI: 10.1177/1559325820931262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective. We aimed to investigate the acute residual hormonal,
biochemical, and neuromuscular responses to a single session of individualized
whole-body vibration (WBV) while maintaining a half-squat position.
Methods. Twenty male sport science students voluntarily
participated in the present study and were randomly assigned to an
individualized WBV group (with the acceleration load determined for each
participant) or an isometric group (ISOM). A double-blind, controlled parallel
study design with repeated measures was employed. Results.
Testosterone and growth hormone increased significantly over time in the WBV
group (P < .05 and P < .01,
respectively; effect size [ES] ranged from 1.00 to 1.23), whereas cortisol
increased over time in both groups (P < .01; ES ranged from
1.04 and 1.36). Interleukin-6 and creatine kinase increased significantly over
time only in the WBV group (P < .05; ES = 1.07). The maximal
voluntary contraction decreased significantly over time in the ISOM group
(P = .019; ES = 0.42), whereas in the WBV group, the
decrease did not reach a significant level (P = .05). The ratio
of electromyographic activity and power decreased significantly over time in the
WBV group (P < .01; ES ranged from 0.57 to 0.72).
Conclusion. Individualized WBV increased serum hormonal
concentrations, muscle damage, and inflammation to levels similar to those
induced by resistance training and hypertrophy exercises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Di Giminiani
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Nadia Rucci
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Capuano
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Marco Ponzetti
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy
| | | | - Jozsef Tihanyi
- Department of Biomechanics, University of Physical Education, Budapest, Hungary
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Di Giminiani R, Visca C. Explosive strength and endurance adaptations in young elite soccer players during two soccer seasons. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0171734. [PMID: 28192512 PMCID: PMC5305282 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0171734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to investigate the explosive strength and endurance adaptations in young elite soccer players who underwent a supervised training program for a period of two years. Nineteen players, with seven years of training experience (age: 13.3 ± 0.1 years; body weight: 57.9 ± 4.9 kg; height: 168.9 ± 4.7 cm; BMI: 20.1 ± 1.1 kg/m2), voluntarily participated in the present study. The testing sessions were performed at the beginning of the preparation period in the first (T1), second (T2), and third year (T3). The following performance variables were measured: explosive strength [squat-jump (SJ) and counter-movement-jump (CMJ)], pre-stretch augmentation (CMJ-SJ), leg stiffness [hopping test (HT)], short sprint performance [15 m (SSP15) and 30 m (SSP30)], aerobic endurance [test of Leger (VO2max)], maximal heart rate [at the last step of Leger (HR)], and speed-strength endurance [continuous counter-movement-jumps (CCMJ)]. A significant main effect on the VO2Max (+5.72%; F(2.49) = 3.822; p = 0.029; ES = 1.00), HR (-1.70%; F(2.54) = 3.472; p = 0.038; ES = 0.97), CCMJ (+7.64%; F(2.54) = 5.438; p = 0.007; ES = 1.15), SJ (+10.26%; F(2.54) = 15.254; p = 0.0001; ES = 1.53), CMJ (+7.36; F(2.54) = 8.270; p = 0.001; ES = 1.33), HT (+8.34%; F(2.48) = 3.297; p = 0.046; ES = 1.01), SSP15 (-3.50%; F(2.44) = 12.760; p = 0.0001; ES = 1.53), and SSP30 (-4.44%; F(2.44) = 5.797; p = 0.006; ES = 1.16) was observed in the two soccer seasons. These results highlight that, in long-term training, the monitoring of the adaptive responses in relation to the training load may provide a guideline to optimize the trainability of some performance variables in young elite soccer players (13-15 years). In the present study, we cannot exclude the influence of growth and maturation on some performance variables; therefore, the monitored adaptive responses should be considered as the possible results of an interaction between the applied training load and maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Di Giminiani
- Laboratory of Biomechanics of the Musculoskeletal System and Motion Analysis-Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Christiano Visca
- Laboratory of Biomechanics of the Musculoskeletal System and Motion Analysis-Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Italy
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11
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Padulo J, Di Giminiani R, Dello Iacono A, Zagatto AM, Migliaccio GM, Grgantov Z, Ardigò LP. Lower Arm Muscle Activation during Indirect-Localized Vibration: The Influence of Skill Levels When Applying Different Acceleration Loads. Front Physiol 2016; 7:242. [PMID: 27378948 PMCID: PMC4909772 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2016.00242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2016] [Accepted: 06/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the electromyographic response to synchronous indirect-localized vibration interventions in international and national table tennis players. Twenty-six male table tennis players, in a standing position, underwent firstly an upper arms maximal voluntary contraction and thereafter two different 30-s vibration interventions in random order: high acceleration load (peak acceleration = 12.8 g, frequency = 40 Hz; peak-to-peak displacement = 4.0 mm), and low acceleration load (peak acceleration = 7.2 g, frequency = 30 Hz, peak-to-peak displacement = 4.0 mm). Surface electromyography root mean square from brachioradialis, extensor digitorum, flexor carpi radialis, and flexor digitorum superficialis recorded during the two vibration interventions was normalized to the maximal voluntary contraction recording. Normalized surface electromyography root mean square was higher in international table tennis players with respect to national ones in all the interactions between muscles and vibration conditions (P < 0.05), with the exception of flexor carpi radialis (at low acceleration load, P > 0.05). The difference in normalized surface electromyography root mean square between international table tennis players and national ones increased in all the muscles with high acceleration load (P < 0.05), with the exception of flexor digitorum superficialis (P > 0.05). The muscle activation during indirect-localized vibration seems to be both skill level and muscle dependent. These results can optimize the training intervention in table tennis players when applying indirect-localized vibration to lower arm muscles. Future investigations should discriminate between middle- and long-term adaptations in response to specific vibration loads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johnny Padulo
- University eCampusNovedrate, Italy; Faculty of Kinesiology, University of SplitSplit, Croatia
| | - Riccardo Di Giminiani
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Antonio Dello Iacono
- Zinman College of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Wingate Institute Netanya, Israel
| | - Alessandro M Zagatto
- Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Sciences, Univ Estadual Paulista - UNESP Bauru, Brazil
| | | | - Zoran Grgantov
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Split Split, Croatia
| | - Luca P Ardigò
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, School of Exercise and Sport Science, University of Verona Verona, Italy
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12
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Di Giminiani R, Petricola S. The Power Output-Drop Height Relationship to Determine the Optimal Dropping Intensity and to Monitor the Training Intervention. J Strength Cond Res 2016; 30:117-25. [PMID: 26110346 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000001076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Di Giminiani
- Laboratory of Biomechanics of the Musculoskeletal System and Motion Analysis, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
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13
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Di Giminiani R, Masedu F, Padulo J, Tihanyi J, Valenti M. The EMG activity-acceleration relationship to quantify the optimal vibration load when applying synchronous whole-body vibration. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2015; 25:853-9. [PMID: 26443890 DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2015.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2014] [Revised: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 09/11/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To date are lacking methodological approaches to individualizing whole-body vibration (WBV) intensity. The aim of this study was: (1) to determine the surface-electromyography-root-mean-square (sEMG(RMS))-acceleration load relationship in the vastus lateralis (VL), vastus medialis (VM), rectus femoris (RF), lateral gastrocnemius (LG) muscles during synchronous WBV, and (2) to assess the reliability of the acceleration corresponding to the maximal sEMG(RMS). METHODS Twenty-five sportsman voluntarily took part in this study with a single-group, repeated-measures design. All subjects postured themselves in an isometric half-squat during nine trials in the following conditions: no vibrations and random vibrations of different acceleration loads (from 0.12 to 5.72 g). RESULTS The sEMG(RMS) were dependent on the acceleration loads in the VL (p = 0.0001), LG (p = 0.0001) and VM (p = 0.011) muscles; while RF was not affected by the acceleration loads (p = 0.508). The comparisons among the sEMG(RMS)-accelerations relationships revealed a significant difference between the LG and the others muscles (p = 0.001). No significant difference was found between the different thigh muscles (p > 0.05). The intra-class correlation coefficient ranged from 0.87 to 0.99 for the measurements performed on the LG, VL and VM. CONCLUSIONS The sEMG(RMS)-acceleration relationship in the VL, VM and LG is a reliable test to individualize the WBV intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Di Giminiani
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Francesco Masedu
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Johnny Padulo
- University eCampus, Novedrate, COMO, Italy; Tunisian Research Laboratory "Sport Performance Optimization" National Center of Medicine and Science in Sports (CNMSS), Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Jozsef Tihanyi
- Department of Biomechanics, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Marco Valenti
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy
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14
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Di Giminiani R, Fabiani L, Baldini G, Cardelli G, Giovannelli A, Tihanyi J. Hormonal and neuromuscular responses to mechanical vibration applied to upper extremity muscles. PLoS One 2014; 9:e111521. [PMID: 25368995 PMCID: PMC4219718 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0111521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2014] [Accepted: 09/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the acute residual hormonal and neuromuscular responses exhibited following a single session of mechanical vibration applied to the upper extremities among different acceleration loads. Methods Thirty male students were randomly assigned to a high vibration group (HVG), a low vibration group (LVG), or a control group (CG). A randomized double-blind, controlled-parallel study design was employed. The measurements and interventions were performed at the Laboratory of Biomechanics of the University of L'Aquila. The HVG and LVG participants were exposed to a series of 20 trials ×10 s of synchronous whole-body vibration (WBV) with a 10-s pause between each trial and a 4-min pause after the first 10 trials. The CG participants assumed an isometric push-up position without WBV. The outcome measures were growth hormone (GH), testosterone, maximal voluntary isometric contraction during bench-press, maximal voluntary isometric contraction during handgrip, and electromyography root-mean-square (EMGrms) muscle activity (pectoralis major [PM], triceps brachii [TB], anterior deltoid [DE], and flexor carpi radialis [FCR]). Results The GH increased significantly over time only in the HVG (P = 0.003). Additionally, the testosterone levels changed significantly over time in the LVG (P = 0.011) and the HVG (P = 0.001). MVC during bench press decreased significantly in the LVG (P = 0.001) and the HVG (P = 0.002). In the HVG, the EMGrms decreased significantly in the TB (P = 0.006) muscle. In the LVG, the EMGrms decreased significantly in the DE (P = 0.009) and FCR (P = 0.006) muscles. Conclusion Synchronous WBV acutely increased GH and testosterone serum concentrations and decreased the MVC and their respective maximal EMGrms activities, which indicated a possible central fatigue effect. Interestingly, only the GH response was dependent on the acceleration with respect to the subjects' responsiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Di Giminiani
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Leila Fabiani
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Giuliano Baldini
- Laboratory of Chemical-Clinical and Microbiological Analysis, Giulianova Hospital, Teramo, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cardelli
- Laboratory of Chemical-Clinical and Microbiological Analysis, Giulianova Hospital, Teramo, Italy
| | - Aldo Giovannelli
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila Italy
| | - Jozsef Tihanyi
- Department of Biomechanics, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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15
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Di Giminiani R, Masedu F, Tihanyi J, Scrimaglio R, Valenti M. The interaction between body position and vibration frequency on acute response to whole body vibration. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2013; 23:245-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2012.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2012] [Revised: 07/12/2012] [Accepted: 08/28/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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Di Giminiani R, Tihanyi J, Safar S, Scrimaglio R. The effects of vibration on explosive and reactive strength when applying individualized vibration frequencies. J Sports Sci 2009; 27:169-77. [PMID: 19153867 DOI: 10.1080/02640410802495344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the effects of 8 weeks of whole-body vibrations on explosive and reactive leg strength. Thirty-three physically active students took part in the study and were randomly assigned to an individualized-vibration group, a fixed-vibration group or a control group. The frequency of vibration was set to 30 Hz for the fixed-vibration group, whereas the frequency for the individualized-vibration group was determined by monitoring the participants' EMGrms activity. The participants in the two vibration groups were exposed three times a week for 8 weeks to a series of 10 x 1-min whole-body vibrations with a 1-min pause between series of vibrations and a 4-min pause after the first five series of vibrations. Jump height in the squat jump increased significantly in all three groups (by 11% for the individualized-vibration group, p=0.001; by 3% for the fixed-vibration group, p=0.011; and by 2% for the control group, p=0.006), but countermovement jump height was not affected. In continuous rebound jumps by the individualized-vibration group, jumping height increased by 22% (p=0.006) and power increased by 18% (p=0.002). The results of this study suggest that the use of an individualized vibration frequency produces a greater response from the neuromuscular system and is more beneficial than vibrations at a fixed pre-selected frequency.
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