Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology

Objectives: Water polo players ought to possess various physical capacities and well-developed cognitive functions that reflect the requirements of their specific playing position. Therefore, the objective of this study was to compare the cognitive performance, anthropometric characteristics and specific swimming capacities of youth water polo players in different playing positions. Methods: The present cross-sectional study involved 106 youth water polo players. The subjects were recruited as part of a project for talent identification and selection for the Croatian National Water Polo Team. Testing included anthropometric measurements, specific swimming capacities and cognitive performance (Stroop test). Results: Among the 106 youth water polo players, there were 15 goalkeepers (14.2%), 21 center-defenders (19.8%), 17 center-forwards (16.0%), 34 drivers (32.1%) and 19 wings (17.9%), with the mean age of 14.14 ± 0.38 years. The wings performed faster than center-forwards in both StroopOff time (wings: 57.14 ± 10.04 s vs. center-forwards: 67.03 ± 9.72 s, p = 0.016) and StroopOn time (wings: 66.18 ± 15.86 s vs. center-forwards: 80.24 ± 15.64 s, p = 0.019). Conclusions: In conclusion, this study demonstrated significant differences between different playing positions in youth water polo players, specifically between center-forwards and wings. They performed faster than center-forwards in all tested variables of the Stroop test, measures of psychomotor ability, response inhibition and motor speed, as well as in specific swimming capacities measured in the 50 m crawl and the 400 m crawl. The results of this study provide a valuable foundation for establishing developmental recommendations for different playing positions, aimed at improving player’s performance. These recommendations should take into account anthropometric characteristics, specific functional swimming capacities and cognitive functions that influence players’ game intelligence, which can be enhanced through properly designed training programs. Full article

Background: Hypertension is in first place in Europe among cardiovascular diseases. Worldwide, only 1 in 5 adults pursue proper treatment that controls their high blood pressure. Endothelial dysfunction is a marker that indicates the progression of hypertension. The study aims to evaluate the efficacy of antihypertensives and physical and hydrotherapy cardiovascular rehabilitation programs to control hypertension and improve endothelial dysfunction. Methods: A total of 100 patients with hypertension degree 1 (46 years ± 0.32) were divided into four homogenic groups. All subjects of the A, B, C and D groups benefited from recommendations for a healthy lifestyle; groups B, C and D also received antihypertensive medication; additionally, group C had a physical cardiovascular program and group D a cardiovascular hydrotherapy program. Several clinical endothelial damage markers and blood and urine parameters were registered, along with systolic and diastolic blood pressure, before and after 8 weeks of rehabilitation. Results: Group A registered a statistically significant decrease for 1 parameter LDL (p = 0.002). Group B showed statistically significant values for 14 parameters (p ≤ 0.05). The C and D groups registered significantly improved statistic values for 17 parameters each (p ≤ 0.0001). Conclusions: Groups B, C and D that were given antihypertensive medication during rehabilitation registered improved endothelial dysfunctional markers and controlled blood pressure values, compared with group A which was given only recommendations for a healthy lifestyle. Full article

Background: The coracohumeral ligament (CHL) is inserted in the coracoid process, from which it extends laterally and caudally, blending with the tendinous insertions of the subscapularis muscle and the supraspinatus muscle, with a third intermediate area between the muscles inserted between the humeral tubercles, and it contributes to the fibrous tunnel that engulfs the long head of the biceps tendon. Most previous studies mention insertions from the base of the coracoid process, but not from the tip, and some authors describe anterior and posterior columns. In contrast, others stress the existence of superficial and deep fascicles. Also, the relationship between the coracohumeral and the glenohumeral ligaments is unclear. Given the position of the CHL covering most of the rotator interval, and its role in the stability of the shoulder capsule and pathologies like frozen shoulder, a clear description of its fascicles in a plane-wise manner might be helpful for a selective surgical approach. Methods: We studied sixteen soft-embalmed shoulders to avoid misclassifying fascicles due to formalin-linked tissue amalgamation. Further histological assessment was performed on the two remaining non-embalmed shoulders. Results: In our sample, the coracohumeral ligament hung from the anterior and posterior edges of the coracoid process’ inferior surface, defining two columns that converged near the tip of the coracoid process. Both columns were formed by superficial and deep fascicles directed to different depths of the rotator cuff, usually via the rotator interval, fusing with the connective tissue around the muscles without direct distal attachments. We performed histological and morphometrical assessments, and we discuss clinical and biomechanical implications. Conclusions: The coracohumeral ligament contains four fascicles that fuse with the connective tissue of the shoulder joint, forming a double necklace around the subscapularis and supraspinatus. Therefore, its functions probably extend beyond simple vertical stabilization. Full article

Background: Firefighters are at risk for developing metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes due to occupational-related stress and poor health behaviors. Firefighters often experience chronic inflammatory responses that may contribute to the development of insulin resistance. This study examined the relationship between systemic inflammation markers and glycemic control markers in firefighters. Methods: Blood samples were collected from twenty full-time male firefighters to assess HbA1c, fasting glucose, and insulin to estimate the Homeostatic Model of Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR), C-reactive protein (CRP), and homocysteine. Body composition and cardiovascular metrics were also recorded. Pearson partial correlation analyses were performed to evaluate relationships between homocysteine and CRP and the variables HOMA-IR and HbA1c while controlling for age and body fat percentage (BF%). SPSS version 29 was used for all analyses (α = 0.05). Data transformation was used where appropriate to ensure the normal distribution of each variable. Results: A significant positive correlation was found between homocysteine and HbA1c before (p = 0.006, r = 0.605) and after controlling for age and BF% (p_partial = 0.013, r_partial = 0.588), indicating that homocysteine levels are associated with impaired glycemic control in firefighters. No other relationships were found to be significant. Conclusions: The findings support a potential link between systemic inflammation and poor glycemic control in firefighters. Due to the occupational hazards that contribute to chronic inflammation, targeted interventions such as dietary modifications may help decrease the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease in this high-risk population. Full article

Objectives: This study examined physiological, biochemical, and performance adaptations in 18 semi-professional male soccer players across three seasonal phases: pre-season initiation (PS), pre-competition (PC), and mid-season (MS). Methods: Assessments included physical/performance/hormonal/biochemical markers. Results: From PS to PC, body fat (Cohen’s d = −0.88; p ≤ 0.01) and speed drop rate (Cohen’s d = −1.52; p ≤ 0.01) significantly decreased, while V̇O₂max (Cohen’s d = 0.80; p ≤ 0.01), velocity at V̇O₂max (Cohen’s d = 1.86; p ≤ 0.01), and velocity at the second ventilatory threshold (Cohen’s d = 1.54; p ≤ 0.01) significantly increased. Significant fluctuations were observed in creatine kinase (Cohen’s d = 4.34; p ≤ 0.01), myoglobin (Cohen’s d = 0.66; p ≤ 0.01), and cortisol (Cohen’s d = −1.14; p ≤ 0.01) levels. From PS to MS, further reductions in body fat (Cohen’s d = −0.81; p ≤ 0.01) and speed drop rate (Cohen’s d = −1.12; p ≤ 0.01) were observed, along with significant improvements in countermovement jump performance (Cohen’s d = 1.08; p ≤ 0.01) and cardiorespiratory fitness (Cohen’s d ≥ 0.83; p ≤ 0.01). Creatine kinase (Cohen’s d = 3.82; p ≤ 0.01), myoglobin (Cohen’s d = 1.50; p ≤ 0.01), interleukin-6 (Cohen’s d = 1.24; p ≤ 0.01), and testosterone (Cohen’s d = 0.92; p ≤ 0.01) significantly increased. Stability in lower limb strength, flexibility, triglycerides, C-reactive protein, ferritin, liver enzymes, and most hematological parameters suggest resilience to seasonal demands. Conclusions: Seasonal training enhanced fitness and hormonal balance while maintaining physiological stability. These findings underscore the importance of periodized training to manage muscle damage and sustain an anabolic hormonal profile for peak performance. Consistent diet and training support metabolic health, while tailored recovery strategies and season-specific interventions are essential for optimizing performance and minimizing injury risk. Full article

Objectives: The present study aimed to analyze the psychophysiological and neuromuscular reflex modifications following a single functional neurology intervention in individuals presenting vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) cancellation dysfunction. Methods: A total of 66 healthy participants, comprising an experimental group (n = 48; 22 females, 26 males; mean age 28.1 ± 7.8 years) and a control group (n = 18; 9 females, 9 males; mean age 28.6 ± 7.0 years), underwent comprehensive assessments at four distinct measurement moments: baseline, post-indicator muscle failure pre-intervention, immediately post-functional neurology intervention, and post-intervention indicator muscle failure, assessing neuromuscular (handgrip strength) and psychophysiological parameters, including blood oxygen saturation, heart rate, cortical arousal (critical flicker fusion threshold, CFFT), and pain perception (pressure pain threshold, PPT). The functional neurology treatment was tailored based on the ^®NeuroReEvolution protocol, emphasizing individualized proprioceptive recalibration, trigger point desensitization, and holistic neuroreflex modulation. Results: Statistical analyses indicated significant improvements within the experimental group following intervention. Specifically, tolerance to VOR cancellation stimuli significantly increased from a baseline of 1.0 ± 0.0 to 129.0 ± 36.7 post-intervention (p < 0.001, η² = 0.926), whereas the control group demonstrated no meaningful change. Furthermore, significant enhancements were noted in pressure pain threshold (27.49 ± 0.67 to 35.69 ± 0.60 kgf; p = 0.029), handgrip strength (20.41 ± 0.72 N to 26.56 ± 0.52 N; p = 0.012), and critical flicker fusion threshold (32.24 ± 0.45 Hz to 38.32 ± 0.60 Hz; p = 0.003). Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrate that a single functional neurology intervention significantly improved psychophysiological responses and neuromuscular reflex performance in participants with vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) cancellation dysfunction. Specifically, the intervention led to marked enhancements in pain tolerance, cortical arousal, and handgrip strength, and notably, an increased tolerance to VOR cancellation stimuli, indicating improved vestibular control. Cardiovascular parameters remained stable, highlighting the safety of the intervention. These findings support functional neurology as an effective therapeutic approach to address VOR-related dysfunctions by promoting neurophysiological resilience and motor function optimization. Full article

The present review summarizes the effects of manipulating different resistance exercise variables on jumps, sprints, and changes of direction (CODs) in soccer. Regarding jumps, moderate-to-high loads, full range of movement (ROM), non-failure sets, and a moderate training volume are recommended. Different external resistances like constant-load, flywheel, or elastic bands, as well as various movement velocities and select exercises, are equally effective. As for sprints, moderate-to-high loads, constant load or flywheel but not elastic resistances, movements performed at full ROM, non-failure sets, and moderate-to-high training volume might be more effective, while numerous movement velocities and exercises could be chosen. As for CODs, moderate-to-high loads, flywheel more than constant-load resistance, and a moderate-to-high total number of repetitions are recommended, while several movement velocities and exercises could be selected, though ROM needs investigation. The effectiveness of concentric-only vs. eccentric-only training on jumps, sprints, and CODs has not been investigated, while an external focus and inter-set rest > 2 min are theoretically preferable, albeit not proven. Importantly, high movement velocity is not a prerogative of effectiveness, and limited ROM is not associated with sport-specific patterns such as jumps. Practitioners in soccer may manipulate resistance exercise variables depending on the purpose. Full article

Background: During growth, the reduction in motor control makes core stability training essential, especially in sports involving dynamic jumps. Given the limited training time of adolescent athletes, finding strategies to maximize the effects of core stability training is crucial. This study analyzed the effects of incorporating body-centering techniques (a method that involves conscious modulation of intra-abdominal pressure to enhance postural stability during motor gestures) into a core stability training protocol on balance, trunk control, and lower limb explosive strength in adolescent volleyball players. Methods: Forty-four female volleyball athletes (15.6 ± 1.4 years of age) were randomly divided into three experimental groups: G1 = body-centering + core stability training; G2 = core stability training; and G3 = standard conditioning session. The athletes performed 30 min of differentiated intervention training twice a week for 8 weeks. Balance ability (Berg Balance Scale—BBS and Stork balance stand test—SBST), trunk control (Trunk Control test—TCT), and lower limb explosive strength (broad jump—BJ, squat jump—SJ, and drop jump—DJ) were assessed at the beginning (T0) and the end (T1) of the intervention period, and 12 weeks later (T2). Results: Data showed a significant improvement of BBS, SBST, DJ (p < 0.01), and TCT (p < 0.05) in G1 and G2 at T1 compared to T0, which persisted until T2 except for DJ in both groups. SJ improved only in G1 at T1 compared to T0 (p = 0.016). G1 showed a higher rate of improvement in SBST (T1: +18.2%; T2: +16.8%) and in DJ (T1: +3%) compared to G2 (SBST T1: +7.6%, T2: +5.2%; DJ: +2.5%). In addition, only G1 showed a significant improvement rate in BBS score (+2.2%) compared to G3 (+0.4%) at T1. Conclusions: These results suggested that core training improves balance, trunk control, and explosive strength in young volleyball athletes with and without body-centering. However, integrating body-centering into core exercises leads to better balance and jumping power than core stability training alone. Full article

Objective: The aim of the study was to determine the effect a mountain expedition (>3000 m) would have on the physical performance and nutritional indices of alpinists’ health status. Methods: The study included 17 men aged 30.29 ± 5.8 years participating in mountain expeditions to peaks of 5000–8000 m, lasting an average of 34 ± 6 days. The following were assessed: aerobic and anaerobic capacity, body composition and the values of selected biochemical and hematological indices of blood and urine before and after returning from the expeditions and a quantitative analysis of the alpinists’ diet. Results: There was a statistically significant decrease (p ≤ 0.05) in aerobic capacity, anaerobic capacity, subjects’ body mass, muscle mass and the lean body mass of the upper and lower extremities. There was a significant increase (p ≤ 0.05) in erythrocytes, hemoglobin, hematocrit, leukocytes, platelets, neutrophils, monocytes and a significant decrease (p ≤ 0.05) in total and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total bilirubin, albumin and total protein. A small percentage of the subjects met the requirements for iron (29.41%), folate (35.29%) and vitamin D (17.65%) supply with diet, as reflected in the blood test results. Conclusions: Despite the observed positive effect of three-week hypoxic exposure on the climbers’ health, the deterioration of aerobic and anaerobic capacity was shown, which, in addition to environmental conditions and systemic inflammation, may have been influenced by adverse changes in body composition. To improve the nutritional status of the body during the expedition and upon return, alpinists should consider including the necessary supplementation of deficient components. Full article

Background: Firefighters have an increased risk of both mental and physical health conditions due to experiencing various forms of extreme stress regularly. High levels of resiliency may help firefighters overcome stressful situations and promote better mental and physical health. Objectives: The primary aim of the present study was to examine the relationship between resilience and other psychological variables. The secondary aim was to determine the relationship between psychological variables and firefighter fitness outcomes. Methods: Participants included 79 full-time male firefighters with a mean age of 35.9. They completed the following psychological questionnaires in this order: PTSD checklist for DSM-5, Dispositional Resilience Scale 15-item, State–Trait Anxiety Inventory for Adults and Beck Depression Inventory. They completed the following fitness tests in this order: maximum number of push-ups in two minutes, maximum time holding a plank and minimum time completing running and/or walking 1.5 miles. Results: Resilience was correlated with and predicted significant variance in depression, trait anxiety, state anxiety and PTSD symptoms in firefighters (all p’s < 0.025). Further, all psychological variables were significantly correlated with and predictive of each other. However, only scores on the Beck Depression Inventory were associated with push-ups completed (p = 0.014). No other psychological variable was related to fitness outcomes in firefighters. Conclusions: This study demonstrated resilience was significantly related to anxiety, depressive symptoms and PSTD symptoms in firefighters but not fitness outcomes. This highlights the protective effects of resilience on mental health, but future work needs to explore other psychological mechanisms to predict physiological performance variables in firefighters. Full article

Background: Hamate-lunate impingement or osteoarthritis can be a cause of ulnar-sided wrist pain. In the literature, the lunate has commonly been classified according to the configuration of its distal articular surface into type 1 and type 2, as described by Viegas. A type 1 lunate possesses only a distal articular surface for the capitate, while a type 2 lunate shows an additional medial facet articulating directly with the hamate. Type 2 lunates have been identified as a risk factor for ulnar-sided wrist pain and the development of osteoarthritis in the midcarpal wrist. However, this does not sufficiently explain all arthritic changes between the hamate and lunate. Methods: In this prospective anatomical-radiological cadaver study, 60 wrists were examined. The midcarpal articulation was documented using conventional X-ray, CT arthrography, and anatomical dissection. The study specifically analyzed the positioning of the lunate relative to the hamate apex and its association with the development of hamate-lunate osteoarthritis. For this purpose, the classification by Viegas was refined. Based on posterior-anterior (p.a.) X-ray examinations of the wrist lunates were divided into type 1a, type 1b, and type 2. The type 1a lunate articulates only with the capitate in the midcarpal joint. The type 1b lunate also articulates only with the capitate; however, medially, the apex of the hamate protrudes beyond a Differentiation Line (D-line), which extends from the radial border of the trapezium or the ulnar border of the lunotriquetral (LT) space, without forming a facet with the lunate. A type 2 lunate articulates distally with the capitate and has an additional medial facet with the hamate. Results: Osteoarthritis between the hamate and lunate was observed in both Viegas type 1 and type 2 lunates. According to our refined lunate classification, both in situ and radiologically, type 1b and type 2 lunates showed a substantially higher prevalence and severity of hamate-lunate osteoarthritis compared to type 1a lunates. However, there was no significant difference in the prevalence of hamate-lunate osteoarthritis between type 1b and type 2 lunates. Conclusions: Assessing lunate type and signs of osteoarthritis is essential when evaluating patients with ulnar-sided wrist pain. Our study demonstrates that osteoarthritis in Viegas type 1 lunate is influenced by the position of the hamate apex relative to the D-line. The refined lunate classification, based on correlated radiological and anatomical studies of the wrist, provides a straightforward method for identifying a potential cause of ulnar-sided wrist pain on p.a. X-rays. This classification can help guide further diagnostic and therapeutic decisions, such as wrist arthroscopy with possible resection of the hamate apex. Full article

Objectives: Gait kinematic and kinetic changes have been identified in older adults, highlighting the need to explore the principal age-related components and how these are associated with functional disability. This study aims to perform a factor analysis, including gait kinematic and kinetic parameters in older adults to establish determinant gait domains. Additionally, this study aims to identify which domains differentiate those without and with functional disability. Methods: Through a cross-sectional design, older adults aged 60 and over (n = 35 without and n = 25 with functional disability) were analyzed during overground gait. A principal component analysis (PCA) was used to determine principal components from gait parameters previously demonstrated to express age-related effects (spatiotemporal parameters, sagittal ankle moment and power, ground reaction forces peak, and tridimensional lower limb joints range of motion and positions at heel strike and toe-off). Results: Pace, variability, propulsion, hip and knee control, transverse ankle control, asymmetry, sagittal ankle control, frontal ankle control, frontal hip control, and pre-swing control domains explained 83.90% of the total gait variance in older adults. pace and frontal hip control distinguished individuals with disabilities. Conclusions: PCA identified ten gait domains in older adults. Pace and frontal hip control distinguished disabilities, revealing cautious walking patterns and weaker hip abductor strength. Full article

Objectives: This systematic review aims to critically analyze the available evidence on the effects of hemsball interventions in children and adolescents. Methods: This study followed PRISMA guidelines for identifying, selecting, and analyzing investigations. Systematic searches were conducted in five electronic databases (Web of Science, SportDiscus, Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus) until 23 February 2025. Only intervention studies with a control group assessing the effects of hemsball in children and adolescents were included. The methodological quality of randomized controlled trials was assessed using the PEDro scale, while comparative studies were analyzed using the MINORS index. Results: Out of 138 initially identified studies, five met the inclusion criteria. The included studies evaluated the effects of hemsball on balance, coordination, agility, manual dexterity, attention, and lower limb strength. The findings indicated significant improvements in balance, coordination, and manual dexterity in groups that participated in hemsball compared to controls. However, no significant differences were found in agility and lower limb strength. Conclusions: Hemsball programs appear to be effective in enhancing motor and coordination skills in children and adolescents, particularly in populations with special educational needs. However, the heterogeneity of the studies and the lack of information on intervention intensity limit the strength of the conclusions. Full article

Background: Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive joint disorder characterized by pain, stiffness, and functional impairment. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been widely studied as a biological treatment for OA, with autologous PRP (A-PRP) being the most commonly used formulation. Recently, umbilical cord-derived PRP (C-PRP) has emerged as a potential alternative due to its hypothesized higher regenerative potential. However, evidence supporting its superiority over A-PRP remains limited. This study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of C-PRP and A-PRP in terms of pain relief and functional improvement over a 12-month follow-up period. Methods: This prospective cohort study included 84 patients with mild-to-moderate knee OA (Kellgren–Lawrence grades I–III), into two groups: 44 patients received a single intra-articular injection of C-PRP, and 40 received A-PRP. Pain and functional outcomes were assessed at baseline, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann–Whitney U, Exact Fisher test, repeated measures general linear model (GLM) and multivariate logistic regression. Results: Both C-PRP and A-PRP led to significant pain reduction and functional improvement over 12 months (p < 0.01 for both groups). Short-term analysis (3–6 months) showed slightly greater pain relief in the C-PRP group (VAS, p = 0.03 at 3 months), but this difference diminished at later time points. By 9 and 12 months, no significant differences were observed between the two groups in any clinical outcome measures (VAS, WOMAC, KOOS; p > 0.05). No serious adverse events were reported, and both treatments were well tolerated. Conclusions: This study found no long-term superiority of C-PRP over A-PRP in terms of pain relief or functional improvement in knee OA. While C-PRP showed a transient advantage in early pain relief, both treatments demonstrated similar clinical outcomes at 12 months. Given the limited scientific evidence supporting C-PRP and its higher logistical costs, A-PRP should remain the preferred PRP therapy for knee OA. Further randomized controlled trials with longer follow-up periods are needed to confirm these findings. Full article

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a significant public health concern, particularly in professions requiring prolonged static postures. Objectives: This study examined the influence of demographic and occupational factors on the WMSD prevalence and provides evidence-based recommendations for workplace health improvements. Methods: A cross-sectional study (July–September 2024) surveyed 80 office employees in Varna, Bulgaria, using the Prevent 4 Work (P4Wq) questionnaire. ANOVA and t-tests assessed the WMSD prevalence across demographics, while Pearson’s correlations examined associations with age, BMI, and work experience. Data were analyzed in Jamovi v.2.6 (p < 0.05). Results: The sample (92.5% women, mean age 47.2 years) reported a high WMSD prevalence, with cervical pain (88.8%), lower back pain (83.8%), and shoulder pain (75.0%) being the most common. Work experience, age, and BMI were significantly correlated with WMSD severity, while gender showed no significant associations. Conclusions: WMSDs are highly prevalent among office employees, with lower back, neck, and shoulder pain being the most common complaints. Factors such as higher BMI, longer work experience, and increased workload are associated with greater symptom severity. These results emphasize the urgent need for targeted workplace interventions aimed at reducing ergonomic risks, improving posture, and enhancing employee well-being, ultimately fostering a healthier and more productive work environment. Full article

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the reliability of muscle oxygen saturation (SmO₂) and its correlation with variables from an inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor placed on the knee at different exercise intensities. Methods: Fourteen university athletes participated in the study. Incremental ergospirometry was performed to exhaustion to calculate V’O₂max, determine training zones, heart rate, and workload using the IMU, and analyze muscle metabolism by SmO₂. Results: The analysis revealed significant differences between moderate-to-high-intensity zones (80–89% vs. 50–69%, Δ = 27% of SmO₂; p < 0.001) and high-intensity zones (90–100% vs. 50–79%, Δ = 35% of SmO₂; p < 0.001). SmO₂ values showed moderate reliability at moderate exercise intensities (e.g., ICC 0.744 at 50%) and high variability at higher intensities, with ICC values around 0.577–0.594, and CV% increasing up to 77.7% at 100% intensity, indicating decreasing consistency as exercise intensity increases. SmO₂ significantly decreases with increasing angular velocity (β = −13.9, p < 0.001), while knee joint load only shows significant correlations with SmO₂ in the moderate-to-high-intensity zones (r = 0.569, p = 0.004) and high-intensity zones (r = 0.455, p = 0.012). Conclusions: SmO₂ is a key predictor of performance during maximal incremental exercise, particularly in high-intensity zones. Moreover, SmO₂ has the potential to serve as a physiological marker of the internal load on the muscles surrounding the knee during exercise. The SmO₂ decrease could depend on the angular velocity and impact of the exposed knee during running. Full article

Objectives: Handgrip strength (HGS) has been used as an important health indicator due to its ability to predict morbidity and mortality risks in various populations. The aim was to investigate the relationship between HGS and health parameters among public sector workers. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out, including the participation of 129 workers. The body composition, presence of chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs), physical activity level, and physical capacity (flexibility, HGS, and lower limb endurance) of the workers were evaluated. Results: The results showed that most of the employees, regardless of sex, work in the administrative sector, are aged 40 years or older, have chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs), and are physically inactive. The majority of women have a body mass index (BMI) within the normal range and are more flexible. On the other hand, men demonstrated greater lower limb endurance. Lower HGS was associated with a higher BMI, the presence of a CNCD, and worse lower limb endurance. A negative correlation was observed between HGS and age, BMI, and body fat. Conversely, a positive correlation was found between HGS and muscle mass, as well as with lower limb muscle endurance. Conclusions: It can be concluded that individuals with lower HGS are more likely to have a high BMI, develop a CNCD, and present worse lower muscular endurance. Additionally, HGS was found to be reduced in older individuals and/or those with higher levels of body fat, and to be higher in those with normal physical capacity and body composition. Full article

Background: Spinal asymmetries and postural deviations are common concerns in young athletes, particularly those engaged in sports requiring repetitive and asymmetrical movements. Soccer, as a dynamic sport, involves high levels of trunk rotation, rapid directional changes, and frequent loading asymmetry, which may predispose players to spinal deviations. This study aimed to investigate the regional prevalence of primary and secondary angle trunk rotation (ATR) in adolescent male soccer players across different age groups. Methods: A total of 502 male participants (291 soccer players and 211 nonathletes) aged 11 to 14 years were included in the study. Participants underwent scoliosis screening using a scoliometer following Adam’s forward bending test. ATR measurements were recorded at the thoracic and lumbar spinal regions, with primary ATR (ATR-A) and secondary ATR (ATR-B) assessed separately. A chi-square test (χ²) evaluated the association between training level and the regional prevalence of ATR across different age groups. Results: No significant differences were observed in the regional prevalence of ATR-A and ATR-B in the 11-year-old group. However, by age 12, significant differences emerged in ATR-A prevalence (χ²(3) = 16.469, p = 0.001), while ATR-B remained nonsignificant (χ²(2) = 4.040, p = 0.133). In the 13- and 14-year-old groups, significant associations were found for both ATR-A (χ²(3) = 57.219, p < 0.001; χ²(4) = 34.157, p < 0.001) and ATR-B (χ²(3) = 31.481, p < 0.001; χ²(2) = 17.805, p < 0.001), with moderate to strong effect sizes. Conclusions: While no significant differences were observed in younger players, 13- and 14-year-old soccer players exhibited a significantly higher prevalence of ATR than nonathletes. The findings suggest that soccer players exhibited a higher prevalence of spinal asymmetries, particularly in older age groups, with lumbar ATR being more pronounced. The study highlights an increasing trend of spinal asymmetries with training level among young soccer players, likely due to the cumulative effects of asymmetric movement patterns. These findings emphasize the need for early detection and corrective interventions to mitigate potential long-term musculoskeletal imbalances in adolescent soccer players. Full article

Background: Chronic health conditions frequently result in gait disturbances, impacting quality of life and mobility. Smartphone-based gait analysis has emerged as a promising alternative to traditional methods, offering accessibility, cost effectiveness, and portability. This systematic review evaluates smartphone-based inertial measurement units’ validity, reliability, and sensitivity for assessing gait parameters in individuals with chronic conditions. Methods: A comprehensive literature search in Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar, and SportDiscus identified 54 eligible studies. Results: Validity was evaluated in 70% of the included studies, with results showing moderate-to-strong associations between smartphone apps and gold-standard systems (e.g., Vicon), particularly for parameters such as gait speed and stride length (e.g., r = 0.42–0.97). However, variability was evident across studies depending on the health condition, measurement protocols, and device placement. Reliability, examined in only 27% of the included studies, displayed a similar trend, with intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) ranging from moderate (ICC = 0.53) to excellent (ICC = 0.95) for spatiotemporal parameters. Sensitivity and specificity metrics were explored in 41% and 35% of the included studies, respectively, with several applications achieving over 90% accuracy in detecting gait abnormalities. Feasibility was rated positively in 94% of the included studies, emphasising the practical advantages of smartphones in diverse settings. Conclusions: The findings of this systematic review endorse the clinical potential of smartphones for remote and real-world gait analysis, while highlighting the need for standardised methodologies. Future research should adopt a more comprehensive approach to psychometric evaluation, ensuring that reliability aspects are adequately explored. Additionally, long-term studies are needed to assess the effectiveness of smartphone-based technologies in supporting the personalised treatment and proactive management of chronic conditions. Full article