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Aim: This study aimed to compare the acute effects of different methods on ankle joint range of motion (ROM) in older adults. Materials and Methods: Seventy-eight older adults were randomly divided into three groups. After the warming-up, static stretching, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) contract-relax, and roller massage were applied, at the same period. Before application, immediately after, 10 and 20 min after application, ankle joint dorsiflexion ROM was measured in the weight-bearing position. Results: No statistically significant difference between the groups in demographic characteristics and baseline ankle ROM (p = 0.413). In all groups, post-application measurements revealed increased ankle joint motion (p < 0.0125). Groups were compared, and a statistically significant difference between the three groups was found (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the change of ROM between the Static Stretching and PNF Stretching Groups in the change of ROM group comparisons (p = 0.089). There was a statistically significant difference in ROM changes Roller Massage Group and both Static Stretching and the PNF Stretching Group (p = 0.001). Conclusion: The acute effects of roller massage, on ankle ROM, were superior to static and PNF stretching. The application of roller massage, which was shown to be an effective method for increasing ROM, can be safely applied in physiotherapy programs for older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Due to their high toxicity, cancer treatments produce multiple sequelae, including fatigue, which has a great impact on quality of life. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy on quality of life, fatigue, and functional capacity of a short-term exercise program combining aerobic exercise, resistance training, and stretching for 6 weeks in cancer patients. Methods: The design of the study was quasi-experimental, which included a group of 30 women who were receiving or had received in the last year chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or hormonal treatment. The exercise supervised program with vigorous intensity lasted for six weeks and consisted of three distinct blocks: aerobic exercise (25 min), resistance training (20 min), and stretching exercises (15 min). Before and after starting the exercise program quality of life (EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire), functional capacity [6 min Walking Test (6MWT), Handgrip Test (HGT), 30-Second Sit-to-Stand Test (30s-STST)], and fatigue (FACIT-F questionnaire) were measured. Results: In the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire significantly higher scores were observed in the global health status scale (p < 0.05), as well as in the functional scale in the role functioning, emotional functioning, and cognitive functioning items (p < 0.05), indicating a higher quality of life and overall health level. There was also a reduction in fatigue (p < 0.05), obtaining higher scores on the FACIT-F questionnaire after the exercise program. Additionally significant improvements are observed in 6MWT, HGT, and 30s-STST following the implementation of the exercise program (p < 0.05). Conclusions: A 6-week exercise protocol, with a vigorous intensity, including resistance training, endurance, and stretching exercises can produce significant improvements in quality of life and reduction in fatigue, as well as improve muscle strength and functional capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical research on the management and rehabilitation of work-related upper spinal pain in bus drivers is sparse, indicating a gap in knowledge and treatment strategies. This highlights the growing need for innovative approaches to rehabilitation programs in this area. To examine the effects of kinesio taping (KT) on pain, functionality, and work performance in bus drivers experiencing neck pain. The study involved 44 participants who were randomised into two different groups: the exercise group (n= 22) and the kinesio tape group (n= 22), with participants in both groups undertaking exercise interventions. Evaluations were made before and after 6 weeks of treatment. At the end of the 6-week, the participants’ ROM, pain evaluations and functional scales were evaluated with disability, and work functionality. Neck pain severity decreased in both groups (p< 0.001 for each value), but there was no difference between the groups (p: 0.071). When disability scores were evaluated, improvement was noted in both groups (p: 0.001 for each value), but no statistically significant difference was found (p: 0.754). When the improvements in ROM values before and after the treatment were examined, the difference between the groups was recorded only in the neck extension ROM value (p: 0.011). Significant improvement was noted in all sub-steps of job performance in both groups (p< 0.05). KT added to ergonomic training and home exercise programmes is effective in controlling work-related musculoskeletal pain in drivers with neck pain. However, the addition of KT to exercise therapy was found to be no more effective than exercise therapy alone in improving pain control, functionality and work performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trial design: This study is a randomized controlled clinical trial with three parallel arms and double-bind. Methods: We included participants aged between 18 and 40 who were physically active but not engaged in strength and flexibility training, thirty three were randomized to online system (randomly exchanged blocks) in the two groups stretching that was applied three times a week for six weeks: 2 and 5 min, and a control group did not stretch and was used for comparisons. The aim was to verify the effects of the passive static stretching program on the ankle joint range of motion (ROM) and the Achilles tendon mechanical properties. We evaluated dorsiflexion ROM, isometric and passive torque, hysteresis, myotendinous displacement, tendon cross-sectional area, muscle–tendon unit, and muscle and tendon stiffness before, after, and two weeks post-intervention in the same order, the evaluators were blinded to group assignment. Results: No losses or exclusions were in the post-intervention, but in the follow-up evaluations were four losses in G2, three in G5, and four participants in CG. 2-min stretching increased ROM after six weeks (p = 0.006), maintaining at follow-up (p = 0.001). The control group also increased ROM (p = 0.009) with a decrease at follow-up. Moreover, the 5-min stretching decreased muscle–tendon stiffness at follow-up (p = 0.019). Muscle stiffness increased at follow-up in the control and 2 min groups (p = 0.01), with no change in the 5 min group. The myotendinous displacement decreases at follow-up only in the 2 min group (p = 0.028). The passive torque increased at follow-up in the control (p = 0.004) and 2 min groups (p = 0.001) but did not in the 5 min group. Conclusion: Different stretching times do not change tendon properties, but 2 min passive stretching increases the ROM maintained at follow-up. Registration number in Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry: RBR-5j3h3c. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Labor pain management is a critical aspect of midwifery care and an essential purpose of childbirth-related care. There is a need for comprehensive results on relevant non-therapeutic methods of reducing labor pain. This systematic review and meta-analysis study was conducted to investigate the effect of yoga practice on labor pain. Material and Methods: We performed a systematic literature search from SCOPUS, PubMed, Web of Science, and Science Direct for relevant studies from January 1, 1990 to June 2, 2022. We selected published quasi-randomized and randomized controlled trial studies that evaluated the effect of yoga practice on labor pain. Quality research was applied. We pooled the Standardized Mean Dfference (SMD) of labor pain in pregnant women with and without yoga practice during pregnancy using a random-effects model at 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs). Results: Nine studies including 660 women were included in the meta-analysis. Pregnant women in the yoga practice group experienced statistically significantly low labor pain at the beginning of the active phase compared to the control group (SMD: -1.10, 95% CI: -1.61, -0.58, p < 0.001; I2 = 89%). Yoga interventions also reduced the intensity of labor pain in active (SMD: -1.32, 95% CI: -2.03, -0.60, p < 0.001; I2 = 92%) and transition (SMD: -1.93, 95% CI: -2.87, -0.99, p < 0.001; I2 = 92%) phases compared to the control group, respectively. Conclusions: The results of the study showed that yoga practice during pregnancy reduces the intensity of labor pain in different labor phases. However, these findings should be considered cautiously due to the substantial heterogeneity between studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the acute effects of the sequence order of drop jumps (DJ) and dynamic stretching (DS) on sprinting performances in competitive athletes and to investigate the relationships between post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) in sprint performance and lower limb power. Thirteen male jumpers and sprinters participated in this study (19 ± 2 years; 177 ± 7 cm; 71.7 ± 5.6 kg). Through a randomized crossover design, the athletes were exposed to three different conditions after a standardized warm-up: DS+DJ, DJ+DS, and control. Sprinting performance over 40 m was analysed with consideration of initial (0 to 20 m) and final acceleration (20 to 40 m) phases. The effect of intervention was examined by two-way repeated-measures of ANOVA. Pearson's correlation test was used to determine the association between PAPE during sprinting and jump performance. There was no effect of any factor on 40-m sprint performance. Meanwhile, the performance at 20-40 m was higher after the DS+DJ condition when compared to baseline (8.79 ± 0.43 vs. 8.91 ± 0.35 m/s; p = 0.015). However, the initial acceleration was worsened in the DJ+DS condition when compared to baseline (6.26 ± 0.25 vs. 6.22 ± 0.26 m/s; p = 0.002). There was a negative correlation between CMJ height and the improvement in final acceleration (r = -0.741; p = 0.004). The use of DS prior to DJ is an effective strategy to improve performance in the final acceleration phase (20-40 m). The athletes with lower levels of lower limb power benefited the most from this PAPE strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background In deep gluteal syndrome (DGS), the piriformis muscle could impinge the sciatic nerve. The FAIR (flexion adduction internal rotation) test is a provocation test used to identify sciatic nerve irritation caused by this muscle. Compression and stretching exercises are usually prescribed to treat this syndrome. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of these two treatments on surface electromyography (sEMG) of the gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior in patients with low back pain (LBP) and DGS. Materials and methods Forty-five participants were allocated to three groups of stretching exercise, compression or control. In addition to 15 min of heat and 15 min of electrical nerve stimulation for pain relief, participants in the compression exercise (CE) group received self-compression exercise, those in the stretching exercise (SE) group received self-stretching exercise and those in the control group received no extra interventions. For the two intervention groups, three sets of two minutes of exercise with two minutes of rest in between were applied. The sEMG amplitude values of the gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior muscles of the affected buttock side of any one group while performing the FAIR test were compared to the others. Pain and disability were assessed and the changes were compared between the two groups. Results After the intervention period, no group demonstrated a change in the sEMG of the gastrocnemius or tibialis anterior muscles (p > 0.05). There was no difference in the change in this variable between groups (Mean difference (95% CI) of gastrocnemius was ranged over= -4.04 to 7.72 (-19.44 to 23.14); p = 0.603); (Mean difference (95% CI) of tibialis anterior muscles was ranged from − 2.44 to -6.43 (-18.28 to 9.31); p = 0.550).; Pain and disability also decreased significantly in all three study groups (p

This study presents a randomized controlled crossover experiment involving 73 patients with idiopathic bilateral Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). Patients received two combined physiotherapeutic treatments: myofascial mobilization (IASTM) and stretching. Participants were divided into two groups: one started with stretching followed by IASTM, and the other with IASTM followed by stretching. Of these, 43 underwent surgery and began physical therapy 30 days post-operation, while 30 received non-surgical treatment. The therapy sessions lasted four weeks, followed by a crossover of the treatment modalities and periodic reassessments up to six months. The dataset includes experimental design, patient demographics, diagnostic data, objective muscle strength tests, subjective sensitivity tests, clinical indicators, and self-reported measures. This data can be useful for researchers looking to replicate the study or compare outcomes between clinical and surgical CTS patients

BACKGROUND: Elastic taping that applies shear force affects joint movement. However, it remains uncertain whether elastic taping or stretching is more effective in improving flexibility. OBJECTIVE: We investigated whether elastic taping for flexibility improvement is comparable to traditional stretching. METHODS: In this randomized controlled trial, 64 university students were randomly allocated to two groups: elastic taping on the sole or 30 s of static stretching. The primary outcome measures were the straight leg raising angle, tested with an equivalence margin (± 9.61∘ on changes), and the fingertip-to-floor distance. Secondary outcomes were the hip flexor and knee extensor strength, two-step distance, adverse events, and pain intensity during the intervention, which were compared using conventional statistical methods. RESULTS: The mean differences in straight leg raising between the two groups after the interventions were not greater than the equivalence margin (mean [95% CI]: 1.4 [ - 6.9, 9.5]; equivalence margin, - 9.61∘ to 9.61∘). There were no consistent differences between groups in terms of secondary outcomes except for pain intensity during the intervention (p > 0.05). Elastic taping did not induce pain. CONCLUSION: Elastic taping augments the flexibility-improving effect comparable to static stretching, based on an equivalence margin. Elastic taping of the sole appears to be an alternative method of improving flexibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In deep gluteal syndrome (DGS), the piriformis muscle could impinge the sciatic nerve. The FAIR (flexion adduction internal rotation) test is a provocation test used to identify sciatic nerve irritation caused by this muscle. Compression and stretching exercises are usually prescribed to treat this syndrome. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of these two treatments on surface electromyography (sEMG) of the gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior in patients with low back pain (LBP) and DGS. Materials and methods: Forty-five participants were allocated to three groups of stretching exercise, compression or control. In addition to 15 min of heat and 15 min of electrical nerve stimulation for pain relief, participants in the compression exercise (CE) group received self-compression exercise, those in the stretching exercise (SE) group received self-stretching exercise and those in the control group received no extra interventions. For the two intervention groups, three sets of two minutes of exercise with two minutes of rest in between were applied. The sEMG amplitude values of the gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior muscles of the affected buttock side of any one group while performing the FAIR test were compared to the others. Pain and disability were assessed and the changes were compared between the two groups. Results: After the intervention period, no group demonstrated a change in the sEMG of the gastrocnemius or tibialis anterior muscles (p > 0.05). There was no difference in the change in this variable between groups (Mean difference (95% CI) of gastrocnemius was ranged over= -4.04 to 7.72 (-19.44 to 23.14); p = 0.603); (Mean difference (95% CI) of tibialis anterior muscles was ranged from − 2.44 to -6.43 (-18.28 to 9.31); p = 0.550).; Pain and disability also decreased significantly in all three study groups (p < 0.05). However, only the disability of patients who performed stretching exercises improved compared to the compression exercise group (Mean difference (95% CI) = -12.62 (-20.41 to -4.38); p = 0.009). Conclusion: Neither stretching nor compression exercises altered the sEMG of the gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior muscles in patients with DGS. Furthermore, performing stretching exercises improved disability compared to the other interventions. Trial registration: The trial was retrospectively registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (www.irct.ir) on 10/01/2017 as IRCT201604178035N4. URL of the record: https://en.irct.ir/trial/8473. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: the relationship between the elasticity of the hamstring musculature and the joint range of the hip has been demonstrated; therefore, in the present study we have set ourselves the main objective of comparing the effectiveness of 3 stretching methods in gaining elasticity of this muscle: Static Stretching, Muscle Energy Technique and Global Postural Re-education. As a secondary objective, we considered the possible relationship between the shortening of this muscle and low back pain. Material and method: a prospective longitudinal single-blind randomized clinical study was conducted following the recommendations and criteria of the Consolidated Standards of the Reporting Trials criteria (CONSORT).The sampling was for convenience. 148 subjects aged 22.50 (21-24) were recruited for the study, all of them students of the Osteopathic Physiotherapy course of the Degree in Physiotherapy at the European University of Madrid. For the analysis of the results of each intervention, 4 variables were used: finger-floor test, seat and reach test, knee angle and straight leg raise. Results: the 3 stretching methods were equally effective in gaining elasticity of the hamstrings compared to the control group, finding no significant differences between them; Regarding the second objective, the results showed that the subjects with some episode of low back pain in the last year presented a greater shortening of the hamstrings in the straight leg raise test compared to the subjects without previous episodes of low back pain. Conclusion: the 3 stretching methods are effective in increasing the elasticity of the hamstring muscles and gaining hip ROM; the relationship between hamstring shortening and previous episodes of low back pain should be further investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. Plantar fasciitis (PF) is a degeneration of the plantar fascia. There are different forms of treatment for PF. Conservative treatment stands out as the main method of choice. The aim was to review in the literature the effectiveness of therapeutic exercise (TE) on pain and functionality in PF. Methods. The search was carried out in the databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and Lilacs, and in the gray literature: Google Scholar, Open Grey, LIVIVO and Brazilian Library of Theses and Dissertations. A Cochrane tool was used to assess the quality of the studies. The primary outcome was pain, and the secondary outcomes were range of motion (ROM) and functionality. The assessments were performed by two reviewers and a third reviewer resolved conflicts. Randomized controlled trials using therapeutic exercise compared with placebo, no treatment, phototherapy, thermotherapy, and electrotherapy. There was no restriction on time or language. Results. The references of 2,984 studies were identified, 2,832 from major databases and 152 from gray literature. A total of 10 articles were included in this review. Nine studies assessed pain, and all had positive results in decreasing pain levels. All 10 studies used to stretch exercises, but only one used strengthening exercises. Conclusions. It is concluded that TE, mainly through plantar fascia and triceps sural stretching, is effective in reducing pain and functionality when associated with other therapies in PF. Study registration. The study is registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Review (PROSPERO) under protocol CRD42021296710. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Both physical activity and muscle-strengthening activity have known relationships with other health-related variables such as alcohol and tobacco use, diet, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL). The purpose of this study was to explore and quantify the associations between physical activity measures and health-related variables at the higher state level. Methods: This cross-sectional study used data from the 2017 and 2019 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System surveys. State-based prevalence (%) estimates were computed for meeting physical activity guidelines (PA), meeting muscle-strengthening activity guidelines (MS), both PA and MS (MB), drinking alcohol (D1), heavy alcohol drinking (HD), fruit consumption (F1), vegetable consumption (V1), good self-rated health (GH), overweight (OW), obesity (OB), current smoking (SN), and smokeless tobacco use (SL). Descriptive statistics, correlation coefficients, and data visualization methods were employed. Results: Strongest associations were seen between PA and F1 (2017: r=0.717 & 2019: r=0.695), MS and OB (2017: r=-0.781 & 2019: r=-0.599), PA and GH (2017: r=0.631 & 2019: r=0.649), PA and OB (2017: r=-0.645 & 2019: r=-0.763), and MB and SN (2017: r=-0.713 & 2019: r=-0.645). V1 was associated only with PA (2017: r=0.335 & 2019: r=0.357) whereas OW was not associated only with PA. Canonical correlation analysis showed the physical activity variables were directly related (r c=0.884, P

Abstract Purpose The purpose was to compare the effects of manual lymphatic drainage and soft tissue mobilization on pain threshold, shoulder mobility and quality of life in patients with axillary web syndrome. Methods This randomized clinical trial was conducted on 36 breast cancer patients with developed axillary web; participants were randomly divided into two groups. One group was treated with manual lymphatic drainage; the other group was treated with soft tissue mobilizations in addition to therapeutic exercises, i.e., stretching, strengthening and range of motion (ROM) exercises. The duration of treatment was four weeks (5 sessions/week), with therapeutic exercises as a common treatment protocol. Outcome measures were Breast-Cancer specific quality of life questionnaires, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Patient Specific Functional Scale (PSFS), Dynamometer and Goniometer. All outcome measure readings were recorded at baseline and the end (4th week) of the treatment. Results The compliance of the variable distribution with normal distribution was verified using the Shaphiro-Wilk test. Parametric tests were applied, and both groups showed significant effects (p 0.05). Two parameters (DASH, PSFS) and one component of the quality of life questionnaire (global health) showed a significant difference (p

Background: Due to their high toxicity, cancer treatments produce multiple sequelae, including fatigue, which has a great impact on quality of life. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy on quality of life, fatigue, and functional capacity of a short-term exercise program combining aerobic exercise, resistance training, and stretching for 6 weeks in cancer patients. Methods: The design of the study was quasi-experimental, which included a group of 30 women who were receiving or had received in the last year chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or hormonal treatment. The exercise supervised program with vigorous intensity lasted for six weeks and consisted of three distinct blocks: aerobic exercise (25 min), resistance training (20 min), and stretching exercises (15 min). Before and after starting the exercise program quality of life (EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire), functional capacity [6 min Walking Test (6MWT), Handgrip Test (HGT), 30-Second Sit-to-Stand Test (30s-STST)], and fatigue (FACIT-F questionnaire) were measured. Results: In the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire significantly higher scores were observed in the global health status scale (p < 0.05), as well as in the functional scale in the role functioning, emotional functioning, and cognitive functioning items (p < 0.05), indicating a higher quality of life and overall health level. There was also a reduction in fatigue (p < 0.05), obtaining higher scores on the FACIT-F questionnaire after the exercise program. Additionally significant improvements are observed in 6MWT, HGT, and 30s-STST following the implementation of the exercise program (p < 0.05). Conclusions: A 6-week exercise protocol, with a vigorous intensity, including resistance training, endurance, and stretching exercises can produce significant improvements in quality of life and reduction in fatigue, as well as improve muscle strength and functional capacity.

Background: Both physical activity and muscle-strengthening activity have known relationships with other health-related variables such as alcohol and tobacco use, diet, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL). The purpose of this study was to explore and quantify the associations between physical activity measures and health-related variables at the higher state level. Methods: This cross-sectional study used data from the 2017 and 2019 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System surveys. State-based prevalence (%) estimates were computed for meeting physical activity guidelines (PA), meeting muscle-strengthening activity guidelines (MS), both PA and MS (MB), drinking alcohol (D1), heavy alcohol drinking (HD), fruit consumption (F1), vegetable consumption (V1), good self-rated health (GH), overweight (OW), obesity (OB), current smoking (SN), and smokeless tobacco use (SL). Descriptive statistics, correlation coefficients, and data visualization methods were employed. Results: Strongest associations were seen between PA and F1 (2017: r = 0.717 & 2019: r = 0.695), MS and OB (2017: r = -0.781 & 2019: r = -0.599), PA and GH (2017: r = 0.631 & 2019: r = 0.649), PA and OB (2017: r = -0.645 & 2019: r = -0.763), and MB and SN (2017: r = -0.713 & 2019: r = -0.645). V1 was associated only with PA (2017: r = 0.335 & 2019: r = 0.357) whereas OW was not associated only with PA. Canonical correlation analysis showed the physical activity variables were directly related (rc = 0.884, P < 0.001) to the health variables. Conclusion: This study used high-level data to support the many known relationships between PA measures and health-related variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose was to compare the effects of manual lymphatic drainage and soft tissue mobilization on pain threshold, shoulder mobility and quality of life in patients with axillary web syndrome. Methods: This randomized clinical trial was conducted on 36 breast cancer patients with developed axillary web; participants were randomly divided into two groups. One group was treated with manual lymphatic drainage; the other group was treated with soft tissue mobilizations in addition to therapeutic exercises, i.e., stretching, strengthening and range of motion (ROM) exercises. The duration of treatment was four weeks (5 sessions/week), with therapeutic exercises as a common treatment protocol. Outcome measures were Breast-Cancer specific quality of life questionnaires, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Patient Specific Functional Scale (PSFS), Dynamometer and Goniometer. All outcome measure readings were recorded at baseline and the end (4th week) of the treatment. Results: The compliance of the variable distribution with normal distribution was verified using the Shaphiro-Wilk test. Parametric tests were applied, and both groups showed significant effects (p < 0.05) in pairwise comparison (paired t-test). The comparison group analysis (independent t-test) showed that there was no significant difference in pain, upper limb strength, range of motions and fatigue component of quality of life questionnaire parameters (p > 0.05). Two parameters (DASH, PSFS) and one component of the quality of life questionnaire (global health) showed a significant difference (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Manual lymphatic drainage showed more improvement in functional movements. It was concluded that both groups, manual lymphatic drainage and soft tissue mobilization groups were clinically equally effective. Trial Registration Number: This trial is registered at ClinicalTrial.gov PRS under trial number NCT05463185 on date 18/07/2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Purpose: to verify if there is an electromyographic difference during maximal (maximum) voluntary contraction of the masseter and temporalis muscles in patients with temporomandibular disorders, before and after speech therapy intervention with and without the use of therapeutic elastic bandages. Methods: an analysis of secondary data from a clinical intervention study, carried out with 17 adult volunteers, diagnosed with temporomandibular muscle dysfunction with or without disc displacement with reduction. The Bandage Group received manual therapy associated with elastic bandages and the No Bandage Group received only manual therapy. Surface electromyography was performed to record the Maximum Voluntary Contraction before and after four weeks of speech therapy intervention. For exploratory analysis, the Mann Whitney and Wilcoxon paired tests were used, with P

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the acute effects of the sequence order of drop jumps (DJ) and dynamic stretching (DS) on sprinting performances in competitive athletes and to investigate the relationships between post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) in sprint performance and lower limb power. Thirteen male jumpers and sprinters participated in this study (19 ± 2 years; 177 ± 7 cm; 71.7±5.6 kg). Through a randomized crossover design, the athletes were exposed to three different conditions after a standardized warm-up: DS+DJ, DJ+DS, and control. Sprinting performance over 40 m was analysed with consideration of initial (0 to 20 m) and final acceleration (20 to 40 m) phases. The effect of intervention was examined by two-way repeated-measures of ANOVA. Pearson’s correlation test was used to determine the association between PAPE during sprinting and jump performance. There was no effect of any factor on 40-m sprint performance. Meanwhile, the performance at 20–40 m was higher after the DS+DJ condition when compared to baseline (8.79±0.43 vs. 8.91±0.35 m/s; p = 0.015). However, the initial acceleration was worsened in the DJ+DS condition when compared to baseline (6.26±0.25 vs. 6.22±0.26 m/s; p = 0.002). There was a negative correlation between CMJ height and the improvement in final acceleration ( r = -0.741; p = 0.004). The use of DS prior to DJ is an effective strategy to improve performance in the final acceleration phase (20–40 m). The athletes with lower levels of lower limb power benefited the most from this PAPE strategy.

Background: Studies investigating the immediate effects of a single intervention to correct forward head posture are rare. Objects: This study aimed to compare the changes in treatment effects in patients with forward head posture and neck pain after manual and self-exercise therapy over a 1-hour period. Methods: Twenty-eight participants were randomly divided into manual and self-exercise therapy groups. Following the initial evaluation, manual or self-exercise therapy was applied to each group for 30 minutes each in the prone, supine, and sitting positions. The variables measured were the craniovertebral angle (CVA), stress level, pain level, and sternocleidomastoid (SCM) stiffness. After the intervention, re-evaluation was conducted immediately, 30 minutes later, and 1 hour later. Two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the maintenance of treatment effects between the two groups. Results: Based on the two-way mixed ANOVA variance, there was no interaction between the groups and time for all variables, and no main effects were found between the groups. However, a significant effect of time was observed (p < 0.05). Post hoc tests using Bonferroni's correction revealed that in both groups, the CVA, pain, and stress showed significant improvements immediately after the intervention compared with before the intervention, and these treatment effects were maintained for up to 1 hour after the treatment (p < 0.0083) in the manual therapy group. However, the stress level was maintained until 30 minutes later (p < 0.0083) in the self-exercise group. There was no significant decrease in right SCM stiffness before and after the intervention; however, left SCM stiffness significantly decreased after the self-exercise intervention (p < 0.0083). Conclusion: Both manual and self-exercise therapy for 30 minutes were effective in reducing forward head posture related to the CVA, pain, and stress levels. These effects persisted for at least 30 minutes.

Purpose: To compare the effect of static stretching (SS) and cold-water immersion (CWI) on strength performance and blood lactate levels of jiu-jitsu athletes. Methods: A total of 21 male Brazilian jiu-jitsu fighters were randomly assigned to SS (9 × 30-s carpal extension), CWI (3 × 3 min at 10°C), or a control group (CG); their maximal handgrip strength, handgrip muscle endurance, dynamic kimono grip strength test, and blood lactate concentration were assessed before and after a simulated Brazilian jiu-jitsu fight and after one of the recovery interventions. Results: There was an interaction (F = 9.075; P =.002) and a time effect (F = 11.792; P =.003) for dynamic kimono grip strength test, showing a decrease in performance for the CG (P =.0001; effect size [ES] = 0.52, moderate) and after SS (P =.006; ES = 0.43, small). There was an interaction (F = 3.592; P =.015) and a time effect (F = 122.631; P =.0001) for blood lactate concentration, showing lower levels after CWI versus CG (P =.028; ES = 0.93, moderate) and after CWI versus SS (P =.042; ES = 0.82, moderate). There was an interaction (F = 9.617; P =.001) for handgrip strength, showing an impairment in performance after SS (P =.001; ES = 0.67, moderate). Conclusion: CWI promoted restoration of muscle strength and endurance and reduction in blood lactate levels after the simulated fight and can thus be used by jiu-jitsu athletes as a recovery strategy between fights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Muscle stretching exercises preserve corporal flexibility and decrease the retraction and shortening of myofascial and articular structures. These exercises are recommended for the treatment of fibromyalgia (FM). The purpose of the study was to verify and compare the effect of muscle stretching exercises on FM patients based on the global posture reeducation method against segmental muscle stretching exercises, both used in concert with an educational approach rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy. Methods Forty adults with FM were randomly allocated into two groups: global and segmental. The two kinds of therapies were performed in 10 individual sessions once a week. Two assessments were made: one at baseline and one at the end of therapy. The primary outcome variable was pain intensity (Visual Analog Scale). The secondary outcome variables were multidimensional pain (McGill Pain Questionnaire), the pain threshold at tender points (dolorimetry), attitudes toward chronic pain (Survey of Pain Attitudes-Brief Version), body posture (Postural Assessment Software Protocol), postural control (Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction on Balance), flexibility (sit-and-reach test), the impact of FM on quality of life (Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, FIQ), and self-reported perceptions and body self-care. Results At the end of treatment, there were no statistically significant differences between the groups in the outcome variables. Furthermore, the groups presented lower pain intensity (baseline vs. final; global group: 6 ± 1.8 vs. 2.2 ± 1.6 cm, p

Objective To evaluate the efficacy of combined association instrument myofascial mobilization (IASTM) and stretching in patients with idiopathic bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) operated on one hand and to analyze the response of the operated (OH) and non‐operated (NH) hand according to the sequence of therapies. Research on these parameters has not yet been found in the literature. Methods Randomized controlled crossover study with 43 participants using the objective and subjective outcome variables. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups: starting with stretching followed by IASTM and starting with IASTM followed by stretching. Then patients underwent surgery on the hand with more severe involvement and physical therapy rehabilitation was started 30 days after for a period of 4 weeks. After the 1‐week interval the participants who started with stretching were referred to IASTM and vice versa, following the same previous patterns. The outpatient reassessments took place at 3 to 6 months. Crossover ANOVA and effect sizes were used as analysis methods. Results Time was the most significant outcome for all variables both during therapies and at 6‐month follow‐up. Regarding response to the combined therapies between OH and NH, there were differences for both OH and NH, with the greatest impact on NH for the palmar grip and VAS variables. The treatment sequences were significant for pain on the NH and mental SF‐12, suggesting that starting with IASTM followed by stretching had a superior outcome for these outcomes. Conclusion The combination of IASTM with stretching, used in the postoperative period of bilateral idiopathic CTS, proved to be supplementary, with significant results and large effect sizes for most of the outcomes assessed, both during the time of application of the therapies and in the 6‐month follow‐up for both hands, and may constitute a viable therapeutic alternative for this population.

ABSTRACT This study aimed to verify the effect of the spring constant change on the electromyographic activity of the powerhouse and shoulder muscles during the long stretch exercise. In total, 15 Pilates practitioners performed the Long Stretch exercise on the reformer with three different spring constants: (1) k=0.19kg/cm with 1 red spring; (2) k=0.27kg/cm with 1 red spring and 1 yellow; and (3) k=0.38kg/cm with 2 red springs. The Electromyographic activity of Rectus Abdominis (RA), External Oblique (EO), Internal Oblique/Transversus abdominis (OI/TS), Multifidus (MU), Iliocostalis (IC), Longissimus (LG), Lower Trapezius (LT), and Anterior Deltoid (AD) were evaluated. We observed that as the spring constant increases, the RA, OE, OI/TS muscles decrease their EMG activity, while the AD, LT, and LG increase their EMG activity. The MU and IC muscles were not influenced in their EMG activities. Therefore, we observed an influence of the change of the spring constant on the electromyographic activity of the RA, OE, OI/LG, AD, and LT muscles. However, we found no influence of the spring constant on the EMG activities of the MU and IC muscles during the long stretch.

Objective: Muscle stretching is applied with the purpose of increasing range of motion. Different techniques are used for this purpose, including proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) and dynamic stretching, but it is still unclear which one is more effective. The objective of this research was to estimate the efficacy of the hold-relax technique compared to dynamic stretching on hamstring flexibility in healthy young adults. Methodology: Randomized controlled trial with blinding, consisting of two intervention arms. The study included a total of 32 young adult volunteers aged 18 to 30 years, who were randomized into two intervention groups: PNF (n = 16) and dynamic stretching (n = 16). Knee joint flexibility was assessed using the popliteal angle measured with a goniometer. Results: The mean age, weight, height, and body mass index were found to be equivalent, indicating comparable groups. No significant differences were found between the stretching groups in the adjusted means, with a mean difference of -2.09 (95 % CI -7.05 to 2.87). Conclusions: Both dynamic stretching and PNF demonstrated an increase in knee range of motion, with both stretching techniques showing differences from the baseline. No significant differences were found between the stretching groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hamstring muscle shortness is the primary risk factor for sports-related injuries. Numerous treatments are available for lengthening of hamstring muscle. The main purpose of this study was to compare the immediate effect of modified hold-relax, muscle energy technique (MET), and instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization-Graston techniques (IASTM-GT) on length of hamstring muscle in young healthy athletes. 60 athletes comprising of 29 females and 31 males were recruited in the present study. Participants were allocated to 3 groups of IASTM-GT (N = 20, 13 male, 7 female), Modified Hold-relax (N = 20, 8 male, 12 female), and MET (N = 20, 7 male, 13 female). Active knee extension and passive straight leg raising (SLR), and toe touch test were performed before and immediately after the intervention by a blinded assessor. For the comparison of dependent variables across time, 3*2 repeated measure ANOVA was utilized. Interaction of group by time was significant for passive SLR (P < 0.001). Interaction of group by time was not significant for active knee extension (P = 0.17). The results showed that dependent variables increased significantly in all groups. The effect size (Cohen's d) in the groups of IASTM-GT, modified Hold-relax, and MET was 1.7, 3.17, and 3.12, respectively. Although the measures were improved in all groups, it seems that IASTM-GT can be used as a safe and efficient treatment, which can be a suitable candidate alongside modified hold-relax and MET for increasing the hamstrings muscle length in healthy athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Primary dysmenorrhoea symptoms affect most women's daily life activities. The aim of the current study was to assess the efficacy of active stretching exercises in reducing pain intensity and improving menstruation characteristics of young adult females. Methods. Overall, 33 females with primary dysmenorrhoea were randomly assigned to 3 equal groups: group A (n = 11), implementing a supervised active stretching program 3 times a week for 4 weeks; group B (n = 11), practising non-supervised active stretching 3 times a week for 4 weeks; and group C (n = 11) - a control group. Pain intensity and menstruation characteristics were measured with the visual analogue scale and verbal multidimensional scoring system, respectively, before and at the end of the study. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to determine differences between groups. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test served to perform within-group comparison. Results. A significant reduction in pain intensity was obtained in both intervention groups (A and B) (p-value of 0.003 and 0.007, respectively), whereas post-treatment comparison between groups revealed a statistically significant reduction in pain intensity in favour of group A (p < 0.001). A significant improvement in menstruation characteristics was found in group A (p = 0.003), with non-significant improvements in groups B and C (p-value of 0.07 and 1.0, respectively). Conclusions. Both supervised and non-supervised active stretching exercises could provide a safe non-pharmacological alternative for pain relief in primary dysmenorrhoea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Smart-bar device (SBD) is a newly developed device to measure the body range of motion (ROM) by a kinetic sensor and to provide an exercise program with augmented reality (AR) guidance of body-frame image and audio feedback by mobile application. Objective: This study aims to compare the performance of SBD with AR function with a goniometer and to verify the clinical utility of SBD with AR guide function' Methods: Ten healthy individuals were enrolled and measured the ROM of body lateral flexion, extension, and rotation using a goniometer and SBD simultaneously. To evaluate the accuracy of an AR-guided exercise, we enrolled three patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and measured the ROM of trunk lateral flexion and rotation during stretching exercises using SBD with or without AR guidance. Results: Concurrent validity between the goniometer and SBD was statistically significant, with a very high correlation coefficient from r = 0.836–0.988 (p < 0.05). All patients with scoliosis showed higher accuracy when we used SBD with AR guidance than when we used SBD without AR guidance (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The SBD could be a valid device to measure the joint angle of neck, shoulder, and trunk. AR guidance increased the accuracy of the stretching exercise, and mobile application of AR-guided stretching exercises with SBD should be useful for scoliosis patients to correct their posture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study was carried out to determine whether non-face-to-face physical therapy would have similar exercise effects to face-to-face physical therapy. Hence, we developed an approach for patients, unable to visit hospitals due to circumstances such as the COVID-19 pandemic, to conduct physical therapy comfortably at home. Objects: This study aimed to compare the effects of a face-to-face and a non-face-to-face physical therapy treatment on improving a rounded shoulder posture. Methods: The participants with rounded shoulders were randomly divided into a face-toface group (n = 15) and a non-face-to-face group (n = 15), and each group performed exercises for four weeks. The exercise program consisted of the bare hands exercise, Thera-Band exercise, and foam roller exercise. The participants in the face-to-face group came to a designated place to perform their exercises, and those in the non-face-to-face group performed the exercises at their own home using Google Meet (Google). Acromial height, total scapular distance (TSD), shoulder pain and dysfunction index (SPADI), and pectoralis minor thickness were measured. Data analysis was performed using the R Statistical Software (R Core Team), and a normality test was performed using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Results: There were no significant differences between the face-to-face and the non-face-toface groups (p > 0.05). When comparing the differences before and after the exercises, both the face-to-face and the non-face-to-face groups showed significant differences in acromial height, SPADI, and pectoralis minor thickness (p < 0.05), and both groups showed no significant difference in TSD before and after the exercises (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The results of this study support the results of previous studies reporting that shoulder stabilization exercise and pectoralis minor stretching training improves round shoulders. In addition, this study revealed that both the face-to-face and the non-face-to-face physical therapy treatments had therapeutic effects.

Background: Women may experience different problems in every aspect of their sexual life throughout their lives; therefore, it is essential to check women's sexual health and try to improve it. The present research aims to assess core stability trainings on postpartum mothers' sexual desire. Materials and Methods: This quasi-experimental research was conducted by random sampling on 72 mothers who referred to comprehensive health centers in Isfahan in 2019 in postpartum period. The samples were divided into experimental and control groups by random placement method (blocking). Core stability exercises were performed in the experimental group for 24 sessions. The demographic questionnaire and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) were filled out in two stages (before and one month after the intervention) by the samples, and the data were analyzed by Mann-Whitney, independent t-test, paired t-test, Chi-square. Results: The result of this study showed that the average score of the sexual desire after intervention in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the control group (p = 0.03). The average score of the sexual desire after the intervention in the experimental group was significantly higher than that before the intervention (p < 0.001). The average scores of the sexual desire before and after the intervention in the control group were not significantly different (p = 0.40). Conclusions: Eight weeks of core stabilization exercises can improve endurance of the pelvic floor muscles and the central part of the body, subsequently promoting females' sexual desire. The findings of this study can be considered in the fields of education, health, clinical, and policy.

Context: Stretching intensity is an important variable that can be manipulated with flexibility training. However, there is a lack of evidence regarding this variable and its prescription in stretching programs. Objective: To investigate the effects of 12 weeks of knee flexor static stretching at different intensities on joint and muscle mechanical properties. Design: A randomized clinical trial. Setting: Laboratory. Participants: A total of 14 untrained men were allocated into the low- or high-intensity group. Main Outcome Measures: Assessments were performed before, at 6 week, and after intervention (12 wk) for biceps femoris long head architecture (resting fascicle length and angle), knee maximal range of motion (ROM) at the beginning and maximal discomfort angle, knee maximal tolerated passive torque, joint passive stiffness, viscoelastic stress relaxation, knee passive torque at a given angle, and affective responses to training. Results: No significant differences were observed between groups for any variable. ROM at the beginning and maximal discomfort angle increased at 6 and 12 weeks, respectively. ROM significantly increased with the initial angle of discomfort (P < .001, effect size = 1.38) over the pretest measures by 13.4% and 14.6% at the 6- and 12-week assessments, respectively, and significantly improved with the maximal discomfort angle (P < .001, effect size = 1.25) by 15.6% and 18.8% from the pretest to the 6- and 12-week assessments, respectively. No significant effects were seen for muscle architecture and affective responses. Initial viscoelastic relaxation for the low-intensity group was lower than ending viscoelastic relaxation. Conclusion: These results suggest that stretching with either low or high discomfort intensities are effective in increasing joint maximal ROM, and that does not impact on ROM, stiffness, fascicle angle and length, or affective response differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Hamstring injuries are one of the most common types of damage in sports. Insufficient flexibility and high stiffness are important reasons for it. Stretching is often used in warm-up activities before exercises to increase flexibility, among which dynamic stretching (DS) and static stretching (SS) are the most widely used. The effects of these two stretching techniques on the flexibility or stiffness of the hamstring still need to be clarified. Objective: This study aimed to compare the short-term, medium-term, and long-term effects of DS and SS on improving hamstring flexibility and stiffness via a meta-analysis of RCTs. Methods: RCTs were identified from PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and PEDro from inception to July 28, 2022. The methodological quality was evaluated using the PEDro scale. The mean difference and 95% confidence interval of the outcome variables before and after stretching were calculated and the extracted data were quantitatively processed using a random or fixed effects model. Results: A total of 27 RCTs and 606 participants were included. In terms of improving the ROM of the hamstring, there was no significant difference in the acute (MD, −0.70, 95% CI, −1.54 to 0.14; Z = 1.63, P > 0.05) and sub-acute effects (MD, 1.71, 95% CI, −2.80 to 6.22; Z = 0.74, P > 0.05) between a single bout of SS and DS, while the acute (MD, −5.13, 95% CI, −7.65 to −2.61; Z = 3.99, P 0.05), but the long-term effect of SS was better than DS (MD, - 10.40, 95% CI, −10.97 to −9.83; Z = 35.57, P 0.05) and sub-acute effects (MD, −0.73, 95% CI, −1.69 to 0.22; Z = 1.51, P > 0.05) of a single bout of DS and SS were similar. Two studies have compared the effects on hamstring stiffness, with one showing similar effects, and the other showed that DS was superior to SS. One study showed no difference in the magnitude of change in improving passive torque. No studies explored the effect of DS and SS on hamstring myofascial length. Only one study demonstrated no significant difference in hamstring thickness. Conclusions: A single bout of DS and SS have similar short-term effects in improving hamstring ROM and length, while multiple bouts of SS can significantly improve hamstring ROM compared to DS. DS and SS showed similar effects on hamstring myofascial length.

Neurodynamic techniques have yielded good clinical results in the treatment of various pathologies. The objective of this study is to examine the short‐term effects of neurodynamic techniques of the sciatic nerve on hip ROM (range of motion) and on the amplitude and latency of the soleus H‐reflex and M‐waves, in young asymptomatic subjects. In a double‐blind controlled trial design, 60 young asymptomatic participants were randomly assigned into six groups with different levels of manipulation of the sciatic nerve. The passive straight leg raise test was used to evaluate the hip ROM amplitude. All evaluations were performed before, 1 min after, and 30 min after intervention. For each time‐point, spinal and muscle excitability were also tested. ROM increased in all groups, but none of the treatment groups had superior effects than the group with no treatment. This means that ROM testing maneuvers increased ROM amplitude, with no add‐on effect of the proposed neurodynamic techniques. Neurophysiological responses changed similarly in all groups, showing that the aftereffects were not intervention‐specific. We observed a significant negative association between the change in limb temperature and the change in latencies of all potentials. ROM‐testing procedures performed repeatedly increase ROM amplitude. This observation should be considered when evaluating the aftereffects of therapeutic interventions on ROM amplitude. None of the explored neurodynamic techniques produced acute aftereffects on hip ROM amplitude, spinal or muscle excitability different to the induced by the ROM testing maneuver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Muscle stretching exercises preserve corporal flexibility and decrease the retraction and shortening of myofascial and articular structures. These exercises are recommended for the treatment of fibromyalgia (FM). The purpose of the study was to verify and compare the effect of muscle stretching exercises on FM patients based on the global posture reeducation method against segmental muscle stretching exercises, both used in concert with an educational approach rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy. Methods: Forty adults with FM were randomly allocated into two groups: global and segmental. The two kinds of therapies were performed in 10 individual sessions once a week. Two assessments were made: one at baseline and one at the end of therapy. The primary outcome variable was pain intensity (Visual Analog Scale). The secondary outcome variables were multidimensional pain (McGill Pain Questionnaire), the pain threshold at tender points (dolorimetry), attitudes toward chronic pain (Survey of Pain Attitudes-Brief Version), body posture (Postural Assessment Software Protocol), postural control (Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction on Balance), flexibility (sit-and-reach test), the impact of FM on quality of life (Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, FIQ), and self-reported perceptions and body self-care. Results: At the end of treatment, there were no statistically significant differences between the groups in the outcome variables. Furthermore, the groups presented lower pain intensity (baseline vs. final; global group: 6 ± 1.8 vs. 2.2 ± 1.6 cm, p<0.01; segmental group: 6.3 ± 2.1 vs. 2.5 ± 1.7 cm, p<0.01), higher pain threshold (p ≤ 0.01), lower total FIQ score (p < 0.01), and greater postural control (p < 0.01) after treatment. Conclusions: Muscle stretching exercises based on global posture reeducation and segmental muscle stretching exercises, both used in concert with an educational approach rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy, reduced the pain intensity and impact of FM on quality of life. These exercises also improved FM patients' pain threshold at tender points, attitudes toward chronic pain, and postural control. There were no differences between global posture reeducation and segmental muscle stretching exercises. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02384603. Registered on 10 March 2015. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of combined association instrument myofascial mobilization (IASTM) and stretching in patients with idiopathic bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) operated on one hand and to analyze the response of the operated (OH) and non‐operated (NH) hand according to the sequence of therapies. Research on these parameters has not yet been found in the literature. Methods: Randomized controlled crossover study with 43 participants using the objective and subjective outcome variables. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups: starting with stretching followed by IASTM and starting with IASTM followed by stretching. Then patients underwent surgery on the hand with more severe involvement and physical therapy rehabilitation was started 30 days after for a period of 4 weeks. After the 1‐week interval the participants who started with stretching were referred to IASTM and vice versa, following the same previous patterns. The outpatient reassessments took place at 3 to 6 months. Crossover ANOVA and effect sizes were used as analysis methods. Results: Time was the most significant outcome for all variables both during therapies and at 6‐month follow‐up. Regarding response to the combined therapies between OH and NH, there were differences for both OH and NH, with the greatest impact on NH for the palmar grip and VAS variables. The treatment sequences were significant for pain on the NH and mental SF‐12, suggesting that starting with IASTM followed by stretching had a superior outcome for these outcomes. Conclusion: The combination of IASTM with stretching, used in the postoperative period of bilateral idiopathic CTS, proved to be supplementary, with significant results and large effect sizes for most of the outcomes assessed, both during the time of application of the therapies and in the 6‐month follow‐up for both hands, and may constitute a viable therapeutic alternative for this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to review articles that performed stretching training and evaluated the effects on muscular strength. Literature search was performed using 3 databases. Studies were included if they compared the effects on strength following stretching training vs. a nontraining control group or stretching training combined with resistance training (RT) vs. an RT-only group, after at least 4 weeks of intervention. The meta-analyses were performed using a random-effect model with Hedges' g effect size (ES). A total of 35 studies (n = 1,179 subjects) were included in this review. The interventions lasted for a mean period of 8 weeks (range, 4–24 weeks), 3–4 days per week, applying approximately 4 sets of stretching of approximately 1-minute duration. The meta-analysis for the stretching vs. nontraining control group showed a significant small effect on improving dynamic (k = 14; ES = 0.33; p = 0.007) but not isometric strength (k = 8; ES = 0.10; p = 0.377), following static stretching programs (k = 17; ES = 0.28; p = 0.006). When stretching was added to RT interventions, the main analysis indicated no significant effect (k = 17; ES = −0.15; p = 0.136); however, moderator analysis indicated that performing stretching before RT sessions has a small but negative effect (k = 7; ES = −0.43; p = 0.014); the meta-regression revealed a significant negative association with study length (β = −0.100; p = 0.004). Chronic static stretching programs increase dynamic muscular strength to a small magnitude. Performing stretching before RT and for a prolonged time (>8 weeks) can blunt the strength gains to a small-to-moderate magnitude. Performing stretching in sessions distant from RT sessions might be a strategy to not hinder strength development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aims to find and compare the effects of primal reflex release technique and stretching exercises on pain intensity, functional performance, and pain-free sitting duration in patients with coccydynia. Methods: This is a randomized clinical trial. A total of 46 individuals were chosen for the sample based on the inclusion criteria, and they were divided into groups A and B. Pre-treatment values of patients for pain assessment were taken by the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Dallas Pain Questionnaire (DPQ), and pain-free sitting duration (PFSD). Group A received treatment with a hot pack and primal reflex release technique. Group B received treatment with a hot pack and stretching exercises. Each patient received a total of 12 sessions over the course of 4 weeks, 3 sessions per week. After 4 weeks of therapy, both groups were evaluated again. The obtained data were analyzed using SPSS 21. Results: Findings revealed that within-group differences were statistically significant (P

Introduction: Static stretching is widely used to increase flexibility. However, there is no consensus regarding the optimal dosage parameters for increasing flexibility. Objectives: To identify the optimal frequency, intensity, and volume to maximise flexibility through static stretching, and to investigate whether this is moderated by muscle group, health status, or baseline flexibility. Study design: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: Seven databases (CINAHL Complete, Cochrane CENTRAL, Embase, Emcare, MEDLINE, Scopus, and SPORTDiscus) were systematically searched up to March 2023. Randomised and non-randomised controlled trials investigating the effects of a single session (acute) or multiple sessions (chronic) of static stretching on flexibility- specific outcomes (compared to non-stretching passive controls) among adults (≥18 years) were included. Multi-level meta-analysis examined the effect of acute and chronic static stretching on flexibility outcomes, while multi-variate meta-regression determined the volume at which increases in flexibility were maximised. Results: Data from 188 studies representing 8095 adults (63% female; mean [SD] age: 29±13 years) were included. We found a moderate positive effect of acute static stretching on flexibility (g = 0.60, 95%CI: 0.49-0.72, p<0.001) and a large positive effect of chronic static stretching on flexibility (g = 0.94, 95%CI: 0.80-1.10, p<0.001). While neither effect was moderated by stretching frequency, intensity, muscle group stretched, or health status, those who were less flexible had greater improvements following acute static stretching (g = -0.46, 95%CI: -0.70, -0.23, p<0.001). Improvements in flexibility were maximised by a cumulative stretching volume of three minutes per session (acute) and eight minutes per week (chronic). Conclusion: Static stretching improves flexibility in adults, with no additional benefit observed beyond three minutes per session or eight minutes per week. Intensity, frequency, muscle group, and health status do not influence improvements in flexibility. These guidelines for static stretching can be used by coaches and therapists to improve flexibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cerebral Palsy (CP) is characterized by a disorder of posture and movement, commonly leading to disabling orthopedic alterations, including muscle shortening, especially in the lower limbs. Stretching methods, performed gradually, are necessary to delay the impairment in function from muscle shortening. The use of serial casting aims to promote proper alignment, and an ideal and stable support base, in addition to better bone and joint health, leading to better posture, mobility, muscle function, and, subsequently, increased fitness and health. Objective: evaluate range of motion, postural control, and motor performance in children with CP, using serial casting, as well as to measure its effect on fitness through the autonomic nervous system (ANS). Methods: Sixty children and adolescents with CP, of both sexes, 3 to 12 years of age, will be divided into three groups: Groups A, B, and C, with 20 individuals each. Group A will use serial casting, Group B will use the orthosis continuously (with removal only allowed for bathing), and Group C will use the orthosis in their daily routine. Range of motion of the ankle of first and second resistance levels (R1 and R2), gross motor function measure (GMFM), and balance (measured by BERG scale) will be used in the initial and final assessments, and after 6 months and one year of follow-up. Timed-up-and-go (TUG), load distribution (baropodometry), motor performance measured through a real basketball game and the virtual MoveHero game, analysis of body angulation with "mydartfish", and cardiac autonomic modulation through heart rate variability will be assessed in three different situations: barefoot, with orthosis, and with casting. Conclusion: Serial casting demonstrates the potential to produce positive results in the treatment of individuals with CP regarding better alignment, with consequent motor and autonomic improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Women may experience different problems in every aspect of their sexual life throughout their lives; therefore, it is essential to check women's sexual health and try to improve it. The present research aims to assess core stability trainings on postpartum mothers' sexual desire. Materials and Methods: This quasi-experimental research was conducted by random sampling on 72 mothers who referred to comprehensive health centers in Isfahan in 2019 in postpartum period. The samples were divided into experimental and control groups by random placement method (blocking). Core stability exercises were performed in the experimental group for 24 sessions. The demographic questionnaire and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) were filled out in two stages (before and one month after the intervention) by the samples, and the data were analyzed by Mann-Whitney, independent t-test, paired t-test, Chi-square. Results: The result of this study showed that the average score of the sexual desire after intervention in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the control group (p = 0.03). The average score of the sexual desire after the intervention in the experimental group was significantly higher than that before the intervention (p < 0.001). The average scores of the sexual desire before and after the intervention in the control group were not significantly different (p = 0.40). Conclusions: Eight weeks of core stabilization exercises can improve endurance of the pelvic floor muscles and the central part of the body, subsequently promoting females' sexual desire. The findings of this study can be considered in the fields of education, health, clinical, and policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Medicina do Esporte is the property of Redprint Editora Ltda. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Medicina do Esporte is the property of Redprint Editora Ltda. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Fisioterapia e Pesquisa is the property of Universidade de Sao Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective: This study aimed to quantitatively confirm the effects of dental specialists' work and stretching on musculoskeletal pain. Methods: The pain pressure threshold was divided into five parts (neck, shoulder, trunk, lower back, and hand/arm) of the upper body and measured at 15 muscle trigger points. The pain pressure threshold before and after work was measured, and 30 min of stretching and rest were stipulated as an intervention. Results: The pain pressure thresholds reduced significantly in all muscles after work (P <.05). In the stretching group, the pain pressure thresholds increased significantly in all muscles (P <.05). In particular, the iliocostalis lumborum (lower back), rhomboid (trunk), transverse carpal ligament (hand/arm), levator scapulae‐superior angle (neck), and upper trapezius (shoulder) muscles showed the greatest decrease in pain pressure threshold after work and the greatest increase after stretching. Conclusions: Stretching helps immediately relieve musculoskeletal pain in dental professionals and can prevent and manage work‐related musculoskeletal disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to evaluate the effect of joint distraction exercises with elastic band as a warm-up method versus an only standard warm-up on lower-body maximal strength performance in male bodybuilders and to determine possible moderator variables affecting performance. In the study, seventeen male bodybuilders who met the inclusion criteria were evaluated. The bodybuilders performed two sets of four joint distraction exercises with 30 seconds of rest following the standardized warm-up versus the standardized warm-up only. The maximal strength performance of bodybuilders was measured with an interval of 96 hours. Joint distraction exercises with the elastic band following the standardized warm-up moderately increased lower-body maximal strength performance of the bodybuilders (p = 0.00; Cohen'd = 0.45, 95%CI = 0.30-0.60). In addition, age (p = 0.34, β = 0.03), height (p = 0.92, β = 0.00), body weight (p = 0.61, β = 0.00), training experience (p = 0.66, β = -0.02) and body mass index (p = 0.55, β = 0.01) were not moderator variables for this training method. Our study showed that joint distraction exercises with elastic bands could acutely improve lower-body maximal strength performance in male bodybuilders regardless of anthropometric characteristics. Practitioners and coaches may prefer this training method before strength training to increase the strength performance of their athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]