Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology

Research

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12 pages, 853 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Building a Healthy Future: Functional Motor Skill Development in Precocious Prevention of Childhood Obesity

by Debora Porri, Malgorzata Wasniewska, Giovanni Luppino, Letteria Anna Morabito, Elisa La Rosa, Giorgia Pepe, Domenico Corica, Mariella Valenzise, Maria Francesca Messina, Giuseppina Zirilli, Alessandra Li Pomi, Aurora Lanzafame, Valentina Arena, Angela Alibrandi, Debora Di Mauro and Tommaso Aversa

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(2), 186; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10020186 - 22 May 2025

Abstract

Background: The rising prevalence of childhood obesity (CO) has been strongly linked to physical inactivity and sedentary behavior. Early development of functional movement skills (FMS) is crucial for fostering active lifestyles and preventing CO. Methods: We assessed the FMS of 102 children aged [...] Read more.

Background: The rising prevalence of childhood obesity (CO) has been strongly linked to physical inactivity and sedentary behavior. Early development of functional movement skills (FMS) is crucial for fostering active lifestyles and preventing CO. Methods: We assessed the FMS of 102 children aged 3–5 using the MOBAK test battery. Parents completed a Likert-scale questionnaire evaluating their perception of their child’s motor competence. Results: A total of 102 children and 92 parents participated. Although 61.1% of children engaged in regular sports activities, only 20.5% reached a satisfactory MOBAK total score (Score 3). Significant gender differences emerged in locomotor skills (Score 2) and overall performance (Score 3), with p-values < 0.026 and <0.016, respectively. A significant negative correlation between BMI and Score 2 was observed (p < 0.030). Parents significantly overestimated their children’s FMS (p = 0.0001). Conclusions: Findings emphasize the importance of early interventions targeting FMS enhancement and parental education to effectively support CO prevention strategies and promote lifelong physical activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine and Public Health)

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9 pages, 459 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Superimposed Blood Flow Restriction on Isokinetic Knee Extension

by Darío Rodrigo-Mallorca, Joaquín Mollá-Sanchis, Iván Chulvi-Medrano and Luis M. Franco-Grau

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(2), 167; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10020167 - 10 May 2025

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Abstract

Objective: To evaluate changes in the isokinetic concentric moment of the knee extensors and the moment–velocity curve during the application of no BFR compared to superimposed BFR. Methods: A total of 37 physically active adults [33.73 (10.96) years; 11 females] performed three sets [...] Read more.

Objective: To evaluate changes in the isokinetic concentric moment of the knee extensors and the moment–velocity curve during the application of no BFR compared to superimposed BFR. Methods: A total of 37 physically active adults [33.73 (10.96) years; 11 females] performed three sets of isokinetic concentric knee extensions, each including three angular velocities (300°/s, 210°/s, and 120°/s; BIODEX dynamometer). BFR at 40% (BFR40) and 80% (BFR80) of the maximal pressure occlusion (MPO) were applied randomly after an equal control protocol without BFR (BFR0). Results: No significant differences were found for any interaction between the BFR condition and angular velocity (p > 0.05); 109.78 ± 32.90 vs. 71.24 ± 11.18, 116.68 ± 27.29 vs. 74.40 ± 15.11, and 113.91 ± 28.43 vs. 72.95 ± 13.76 Nm at 300°/s; 137.60 ± 35.27 vs. 88.85 ± 15.23, 135.40 ± 33.04 vs. 86.32 ± 17.38, and 132.68 ± 31.99 vs. 85.39 ± 16.25 Nm at 210°/s; 177.62 ± 41.40 vs. 114.72 ± 20.10, 166.40 ± 45.39 vs. 198.14 ± 21.80, and 162.60 ± 40.10 vs. 109.09 ± 18.90 Nm at 120°/s, for BFR0, BFR40, and BFR80, respectively. There were significant differences in the interactions by gender. Conclusions: Superimposed application of BFR at 40% MPO and 80% MPO during an isokinetic knee extension did not cause any acute change in the ability to produce maximal moment or power. The use of BFR may not generate an ergogenic effect that is sufficient to cause acute changes in force production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine and Public Health)

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17 pages, 1181 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of a Multidimensional Physical Activity Intervention on Glycemic Control in Type 1 Diabetes: A Preliminary Study

by Olga Papale, Emanuel Festino, Francesca Di Rocco, Carl Foster, Iris Prestanti, Sofia Serafini, Pascal Izzicupo, Cristina Cortis and Andrea Fusco

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(2), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10020163 - 7 May 2025

Viewed by 529

Abstract

Objectives: Type 1 diabetes is characterized by hyperglycemic episodes influenced by diet, sleep quality, chronotype, and physical activity, among others. While aerobic exercise is known to improve glycemic control, its effect on blood glucose regulation remains underexplored. Thus, this case study aimed [...] Read more.

Objectives: Type 1 diabetes is characterized by hyperglycemic episodes influenced by diet, sleep quality, chronotype, and physical activity, among others. While aerobic exercise is known to improve glycemic control, its effect on blood glucose regulation remains underexplored. Thus, this case study aimed to evaluate the effects of a prolonged and differentiated indoor and outdoor exercise intervention on glycemic control in an individual with type 1 diabetes. Methods: The participant (age: 23 years; weight: 95 kg; height: 1.90 m; Body Mass Index: 26.3 kg/m²; waist to hip ratio: 0.98; basal metabolic rate: 2015 kcal; Heart Rate Maximum (HRmax): 197 beats·min⁻¹) completed two outdoor (~3800 m) and two indoor sessions with self-selected speed, in the initial 2 min stage, at a 0% grade slope. The grade increased by 2% at each stage during the uphill phase until reaching volitional fatigue, followed by a 2% decrease at each stage during the downhill phase until returning to a 0% grade. Blood pressure was assessed before and after each session. Daily nutrition intake, insulin intake, and blood glucose were continuously monitored. Dietary adherence (PREvención con DIeta MEDiterránea), sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), chronotype (Morningness–Eveningness Questionnaire), and physical activity levels (International Physical Activity Questionnaire) were assessed before each session. The Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale was used to measure enjoyment after each session. Results: The sessions were completed in ~44 and ~39 min with the participant achieving 84% (outdoor) and 96% (indoor) of their theoretical HRmax. The intervention resulted in glycemic improvements, with time spent in hyperglycemia (>250 mg/dL) decreasing from 56.46% to 0%, while time in the normal range (70–180 mg/dL) increased to 63.96%. A 47% reduction in insulin units showed that insulin sensitivity also improved. Conclusions: Despite differences in intensity, indoor and outdoor activities yielded comparable benefits, with outdoor activities being perceived as more enjoyable (outdoor: 28.5 ± 0.7; indoor: 24.0 ± 5.6) and positively impacting glycemic control, thus supporting the need for tailored strategies in diabetes management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine and Public Health)

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15 pages, 682 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigating Persistent Sympathovagal Dysregulation Following a Complex Dual Task in Concussed Athletes

by Mathieu Bolduc, Gabriel Lavoie, Veronik Sicard, Julien Lépine and Dave Ellemberg

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(2), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10020115 - 29 Mar 2025

Viewed by 383

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Dual tasks are increasingly being employed in research on concussion, since they provide a somewhat more realistic representation of the demands athletes face on the field. While single cognitive and motor tasks have revealed persisting autonomic alterations in concussed athletes, the unique [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Dual tasks are increasingly being employed in research on concussion, since they provide a somewhat more realistic representation of the demands athletes face on the field. While single cognitive and motor tasks have revealed persisting autonomic alterations in concussed athletes, the unique autonomic response required by a dual task remains unexplored in this population. The purpose of this study was to evaluate autonomic responses in asymptomatic athletes with a history of concussion (m = 5.46 months ± 2.00) following a complex dual task. Methods: Heart rate variability (HRV), a biomarker of autonomic regulation, was measured in 34 athletes (16 concussed, 18 controls) aged 17 to 24. HRV data were collected using the Polar H10 chest belt. Five-minute segments were extracted under four conditions: rest, following a cognitive task (switch task), after a dual task combining both motor and cognitive components, and after the same dual task preceded by 20 min of aerobic exercise. A series of 4 × 2 mixed-design ANOVAs were conducted to assess the differences between the conditions and groups. Results: The results indicated a significant increase in a global marker of HRV (i.e., the standard deviation of normal-to-normal intervals (SDNN)) following the switch task compared to rest (p = 0.014) only in concussed participants. These results suggest that the switch task may stimulate frontal regions and promote a parasympathetic response, as reflected by the rise in HRV. Notably, the effect of the switch task disappeared when combined with the motor component of the dual task, whether it was preceded by aerobic exercise or not. Conclusions: The dual task results indicate potential competing mechanisms between the motor and cognitive components of the task, which future studies using similar protocols should consider. Meanwhile, the switch task appears sufficiently demanding to reveal autonomic alterations, which, when measured through HRV, may constitute a relevant clinical tool for assessing athletes’ readiness to return to sport and academic study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine and Public Health)

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13 pages, 1446 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Skeletal Muscle Composition and the Effects of Exercise and/or Prebiotic Fiber in Preventing Diet Related Morbidities

by Heiliane de Brito Fontana, Jaqueline Lourdes Rios, John Michaiel, Ruth A. Seerattan, Venus Joumaa, David A. Hart, Raylene A. Reimer and Walter Herzog

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(2), 113; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10020113 - 28 Mar 2025

Viewed by 453

Abstract

Background: We established a model of diet-induced obesity in Sprague–Dawley rats that produces, in addition to obesity, metabolic syndrome and musculoskeletal degeneration. Prebiotic fiber and aerobic exercise interventions have been shown to rescue bones and joints from degeneration, but it has yet to [...] Read more.

Background: We established a model of diet-induced obesity in Sprague–Dawley rats that produces, in addition to obesity, metabolic syndrome and musculoskeletal degeneration. Prebiotic fiber and aerobic exercise interventions have been shown to rescue bones and joints from degeneration, but it has yet to be shown if muscle degeneration can also be stopped with these interventions. Objectives: This study was aimed at determining if prebiotic fiber supplementation and/or aerobic exercise can prevent muscular alterations in our rat model of obesity. Methods: Using a high-fat/high-sucrose (HFS) diet-induced rat model of obesity, 12-week-old male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into sedentary (HFS, n = 12), exercise (HFS + E, n = 12), prebiotic fiber supplementation (HFS + F, n = 12), or combined intervention (HFS + F + E, n = 12) groups for 12 weeks, with eight chow-fed animals as controls. Muscle triglyceride levels were measured using colorimetric assays, collagen content was assessed histologically, and CD68 immunohistochemistry was performed on the vastus lateralis (VL) and soleus muscles. Group comparisons were conducted using the Kruskal–Wallis test and chi-squared effect statistics (χ2). Results: VL triglyceride (χ2 = 10.481, p = 0.033) and collagen content in both VL and soleus (χ2 = 23.148, p < 0.001 and χ2 = 34.166, p < 0.001 respectively) were higher in all HFS-diet intervention groups compared to the chow-fed Control group. Lean body mass did not differ among groups (χ2 = 3.9192, p = 0.417). The HFS group exhibited increased total cholesterol and triglyceride levels (χ2 = 11.693, p = 0.019; and χ2 = 21.663, p < 0.001 respectively) and starkly reduced whole-body insulin sensitivity (χ2 = 18.046, p = 0.001) compared to the Control or to the exercise and fiber supplementation groups. Conclusions: Despite the effectiveness of aerobic exercise and prebiotic fiber supplementation in preventing the systemic metabolic disturbances induced by the HFS diet, muscular alterations persisted. Prebiotic fiber supplementation led to the highest muscle collagen content, suggesting potential adaptative muscular response to the systemic insult caused by the HFS diet. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine and Public Health)

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15 pages, 2704 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Implementation of a Decision Support System to Enhance Movement Proficiency Assessment in Sport

by Xavier Schelling, Enrique Alonso-Perez-Chao and Sam Robertson

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(1), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10010086 - 5 Mar 2025

Viewed by 731

Abstract

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to determine the relationships between seven descriptors of movement proficiency used by an expert to grade an athlete’s single-leg squat and the overall subjective ‘grade’ and the ability to predict a ‘grade’ based on the descriptors. A secondary [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to determine the relationships between seven descriptors of movement proficiency used by an expert to grade an athlete’s single-leg squat and the overall subjective ‘grade’ and the ability to predict a ‘grade’ based on the descriptors. A secondary aim was to determine the relationships between biomechanical data, the expert-defined descriptors, and the subjective ‘grade’ and its ability to predict the descriptors’ presence and the overall ‘grade’. Methods: Single-leg squats in 55 male athletes were graded using expert evaluation, synchronized video, biomechanical data, and decision tree and logistic regression analysis. Results: The model that most accurately predicted ‘grade’ (94.7%) was a decision tree with the descriptors as inputs. The model with biomechanical data for the descriptor ‘foot’ was the most accurate one (96.3%), followed by ‘lumbar’ and ‘depth’ (85.2%), ‘knee’ (81.2%), ‘pelvis/hip’ (71.7%), and ‘trunk’ (62.3%). These accuracies followed similar order to the intra-rater agreement: ‘foot’ (0.789), ‘lumbar’ (0.776), ‘knee’ (0.725), ‘depth’ (0.682), ‘pelvis/hip’ (0.662), and ‘trunk’ (0.637), indicating that ‘trunk’, ‘pelvis/hip’, and ‘depth’ are potentially the hardest descriptors to assess by the expert. Conclusions: The models developed in this study demonstrate that subjective perceptions can be somewhat accurately explained through a small number of biomechanical indicators. The results of this study support the notion that human movement evaluations should consider both subjective and objective assessments in a complementary manner to accurately evaluate an athlete’s movement proficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine and Public Health)

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11 pages, 798 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Minimum Normalized Cycling Cadence to Increase Post-Cycling Gait Velocity

by Nitu Lama, Christopher J. Keating, Paul T. Donahue, Nuno Oliveira and Tanner A. Thorsen

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(4), 235; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9040235 - 13 Nov 2024

Viewed by 889

Abstract

Background: Previous research has shown that increasing cycling cadence can result in improved post-cycling gait velocity. However, the specific threshold of cycling cadence required to bring about clinically meaningful changes in gait velocity remains unknown. This study aimed to determine the minimum increment [...] Read more.

Background: Previous research has shown that increasing cycling cadence can result in improved post-cycling gait velocity. However, the specific threshold of cycling cadence required to bring about clinically meaningful changes in gait velocity remains unknown. This study aimed to determine the minimum increment in cycling cadence that would lead to a significant improvement in post-cycling gait velocity. Methods: A total of 42 young adults participated in our study and were randomly assigned to one of three groups: TEN, TWENTY, and THIRTY. Each group was assigned to cycle at a cadence at the corresponding percentage higher than the participant’s self-selected gait cadence. Each participant engaged in a 15-min cycling session at their respective assigned cycling cadence. Before and after cycling, participants completed a 10-meter walk test while spatiotemporal parameters of gait, ground reaction forces, lower extremity kinematics, and kinetics were recorded. Results: One-way ANOVA revealed no statistically significant changes in spatiotemporal, ground reaction force, kinematics, and kinetics variables pre- and post-cycling. However, there were both statistically significant (F(2,41) = 3.794, p = 0.031, η² = 0.604) and clinically meaningful changes (0.07 m/s) in post-cycling gait velocity in the THIRTY group only. Conclusions: This suggests that a cycling cadence of 30% or higher is the minimum requirement to produce a clinically significant improvement in gait velocity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine and Public Health)

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14 pages, 1014 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Oral Lactate Supplementation on Acid–Base Balance and Prolonged High-Intensity Interval Cycling Performance

by Claire Bordoli, Ian Varley, Graham R. Sharpe, Michael A. Johnson and Philip J. Hennis

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(3), 139; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9030139 - 20 Aug 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2474

Abstract

Lactate is an important energy intermediate and metabolic buffer, and may be ergogenic. We investigated if lactate supplementation is an effective approach to enhance the exercise performance and acid–base balance of trained cyclists during exercise devised to simulate the demands of endurance road [...] Read more.

Lactate is an important energy intermediate and metabolic buffer, and may be ergogenic. We investigated if lactate supplementation is an effective approach to enhance the exercise performance and acid–base balance of trained cyclists during exercise devised to simulate the demands of endurance road race cycling. Sixteen endurance-trained male cyclists (

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O_2max 59 ± 7 mL·kg⁻¹·min⁻¹) consumed 120 mg·kg⁻¹ body mass of lactate or a placebo 70 min prior to performing an exercise performance test, comprising five repeated blocks consisting of 1 km and 4 km time trials interspersed with 10 min of moderate-intensity exercise. Blood acid–base balance (including [H⁺] and [HCO₃⁻]), heart rate, perceived exertion, and gastro-intestinal tolerance were assessed. There was no effect of lactate supplementation on exercise performance (p = 0.320), despite a reduction in RPE (p = 0.012) and increases in [SID] (p = 0.026) and [HCO₃⁻] (p = 0.041). In addition, gastro-intestinal side effects were observed, but there was no effect on heart rate. Lactate supplementation did not improve exercise performance, despite positive changes in acid–base balance and RPE. This suggests that the alkalising effects of the supplement can reduce perceived effort, but these benefits do not translate into performance improvements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine and Public Health)

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11 pages, 899 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Associations between Dietary Intake and Cardiovascular Disease Risk in American Career Firefighters: An Observational Study

by Anna Peluso Simonson, Jacquelyn N. Zera, Paromita Banerjee and Brianne M. Baker

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(3), 132; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9030132 - 27 Jul 2024

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Abstract

Firefighters have demanding jobs, requiring high levels of fitness in stressful situations for operational readiness, yet many firefighters are at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). Diet is an important factor contributing to the development of CVD. The purpose of this [...] Read more.

Firefighters have demanding jobs, requiring high levels of fitness in stressful situations for operational readiness, yet many firefighters are at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). Diet is an important factor contributing to the development of CVD. The purpose of this study was to describe the dietary intake of firefighters and examine the associations between dietary intake and the CVD risk. Forty-six male career firefighters (age = 41.2 ± 11.2 years; BMI = 29.2 ± 4.1 kg/m²; body fat = 21.7 ± 6.1%) enrolled in a fitness-focused wellness program completed a health survey and a fitness assessment. The survey responses and fitness assessment were used to calculate the Framingham CVD Risk Score. Data were analyzed using R, the residual assumptions were verified, and the alpha level was set at 0.05. The results revealed that firefighters consume a standard American diet, with the overconsumption of meat and underconsumption of fruits and vegetables. The average CVD risk approached the upper limit of low risk. The results also indicate that meat servings and preparation fat affect the CVD risk (R² = 0.21, p = 0.006). The outcomes of this study can inform investigations aimed at improving operational readiness and reducing the CVD risk in firefighters by implementing a holistic approach combining dietary interventions with physical training. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine and Public Health)

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10 pages, 284 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Acute Effects of Kickboxing K1 Matches on Hematological Parameters of Kickboxers

by Marta Niewczas, İsmail İlbak, Serkan Düz, Tomasz Pałka, Tadeusz Ambroży, Henryk Duda, Wojciech Wąsacz, Paweł Król, Robert Czaja and Łukasz Rydzik

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(3), 130; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9030130 - 26 Jul 2024

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Abstract

While there is clear evidence in the literature that the hematological parameters in athletes of different sports are affected by exercise and varying loads, to our knowledge, there are limited studies on the real impact of kickboxing matches on kickboxers’ hematological parameters. In [...] Read more.

While there is clear evidence in the literature that the hematological parameters in athletes of different sports are affected by exercise and varying loads, to our knowledge, there are limited studies on the real impact of kickboxing matches on kickboxers’ hematological parameters. In this context, this cross-sectional study was conducted to examine the acute changes in the hematological parameters of kickboxers following K1 matches. With the participation of 10 kickboxing K1 athletes, the hematological parameters, including the WBC, Plt, Neut, Lymph, Mono, RBC, Hgb, Hct, CK, La, and glucose levels, were examined before and after matches. Paired sample t-tests were used to compare the pre-test and post-test hematological parameters of the participants. The findings indicated statistically significant differences in the post-match WBC, Plt, Neut, Lymph, CK, La, and glucose levels, while no statistically significant differences were observed in the RBC, Hct, Hgb, and CK levels (p < 0.05). These results not only emphasize the complexity of physiological changes in athletes, but also show consistency with various findings in the literature, while contradicting some. Therefore, it is highlighted that further research is needed to understand the effects of K1 matches on hematological parameters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine and Public Health)

13 pages, 280 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Regular Physical Activity Can Counteract LONG COVID Symptoms in Adults over 40

by Marco Centorbi, Giulia Di Martino, Carlo della Valle, Enzo Iuliano, Gloria Di Claudio, Amelia Mascioli, Giuseppe Calcagno, Alessandra di Cagno, Andrea Buonsenso and Giovanni Fiorilli

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(3), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9030119 - 4 Jul 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1706

Abstract

Three years after the SARS-CoV-19 pandemic, a chronic post-COVID syndrome “LONG COVID” persists, causing fatigue and shortness of breath, along with distress, anxiety, and depression. Aim: To assess the impact of physical activity on the management and rehabilitation of LONG COVID, as well [...] Read more.

Three years after the SARS-CoV-19 pandemic, a chronic post-COVID syndrome “LONG COVID” persists, causing fatigue and shortness of breath, along with distress, anxiety, and depression. Aim: To assess the impact of physical activity on the management and rehabilitation of LONG COVID, as well as to investigate the persistence of LONG COVID symptomatology in individuals over 40 years, beyond the pandemic. Methods: A total of 1004 participants (aged 53.45 ± 11.35) were recruited through an online snowball sampling strategy to complete a web-based survey. The following questionnaires were administered: Physical Activity Scale for Elderly (PASE), Shortness of Breath Questionnaire (SOBQ), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 item (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7), and Fatigue Scale for Motor and Cognitive Functions (FSMC). Results: Significant gender differences were discovered, with women reporting higher symptoms than men (p < 0.001). Significant age differences were also found, with participants under 55 showing higher values than those over 55 (p < 0.001). No significant differences were found between aerobic and mixed physical activity (p > 0.05) while significant results emerged between physical activity groups and the no activity group (p < 0.001). The low-frequency group reported higher symptoms than the high-frequency group (all ps < 0.001). Conclusion: Regardless of the type of physical activity performed, our survey identified the frequency of training as a crucial factor to overcome LONG COVID symptoms; the challenge lies in overcoming the difficulties due to the persistent feelings of inefficiency and fatigue typical of those who have contracted the infection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine and Public Health)

Review

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18 pages, 916 KiB

Open AccessReview

Physical Activity as a Central Pillar of Lifestyle Modification in the Management of Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: A Narrative Review

by Rodrigo Núñez-Cortés, Joaquín Salazar-Méndez and Jo Nijs

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(2), 183; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10020183 - 20 May 2025

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Abstract

Objective: This narrative review aims to analyze physical activity as a central pillar of lifestyle modification in the management of chronic musculoskeletal pain by examining its effects on pain modulation as well as related lifestyle domains, including sleep, stress regulation, dietary habits, [...] Read more.

Objective: This narrative review aims to analyze physical activity as a central pillar of lifestyle modification in the management of chronic musculoskeletal pain by examining its effects on pain modulation as well as related lifestyle domains, including sleep, stress regulation, dietary habits, and smoking behavior. Methods: A narrative structured review was conducted. We searched MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Reviews using terms related to chronic pain and lifestyle. Randomized controlled trials, observational studies, systematic reviews, and narrative reviews reporting on the concepts of interest were included. The results were synthesized and described narratively. Results: Through the release of neuromodulatory compounds such as endorphins, endocannabinoids, dopamine, and serotonin, exercise improves analgesia, promotes emotional resilience, and reduces the reward response associated with addictive behaviors such as smoking. Its effects on the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis reduce cortisol levels, while melatonin regulation promotes circadian synchronization and deeper sleep stages. In addition, exercise modulates appetite by increasing insulin sensitivity and altering hormones such as leptin and ghrelin, contributing to appetite control and energy balance. These mechanisms support a comprehensive approach to chronic pain management. Conclusions: Physical activity is a core component of lifestyle-based chronic pain management, not only because of its analgesic effects, but also because of its positive influence on sleep, stress regulation, dietary habits, and smoking reduction. Although the available evidence is promising, more randomized controlled trials are needed to examine the effects of exercise on other healthy lifestyle behaviors, such as stress reduction, dietary modification, and smoking cessation, to consolidate its role in the comprehensive prevention and management of chronic pain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine and Public Health)

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18 pages, 526 KiB

Open AccessReview

Clinical Utility of Ocular Assessments in Sport-Related Concussion: A Scoping Review

by Ayrton Walshe, Ed Daly and Lisa Ryan

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(3), 157; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9030157 - 4 Sep 2024

Viewed by 1283

Abstract

Background/objectives: Ocular tools and technologies may be used in the diagnosis of sport-related concussions (SRCs), but their clinical utility can vary. The following study aimed to review the literature pertaining to the reliability and diagnostic accuracy of such assessments. Methods: The preferred reporting [...] Read more.

Background/objectives: Ocular tools and technologies may be used in the diagnosis of sport-related concussions (SRCs), but their clinical utility can vary. The following study aimed to review the literature pertaining to the reliability and diagnostic accuracy of such assessments. Methods: The preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) extension for scoping reviews was adhered to. Reference standard reliability (RSR ≥ 0.75) and diagnostic accuracy (RSDA ≥ 0.80) were implemented to aid interpretation. Results: In total, 5223 articles were screened using the PCC acronym (Population, Concept, Context) with 74 included in the final analysis. Assessments included the King-Devick (KD) (n = 34), vestibular-ocular motor screening (VOMs) and/or near point of convergence (NPC) (n = 25), and various alternative tools and technologies (n = 20). The KD met RSR, but RSDA beyond amateur sport was limited. NPC met RSR but did not have RSDA to identify SRCs. The VOMs had conflicting RSR for total score and did not meet RSR in its individual tests. The VOMs total score did perform well in RSDA for SRCs. No alternative tool or technology met both RSR and RSDA. Conclusion: Ocular tools are useful, rapid screening tools but should remain within a multi-modal assessment for SRCs at this time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine and Public Health)

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16 pages, 1794 KiB

Open AccessReview

Strategies for Improving Firefighter Health On-Shift: A Review

by Kealey J. Wohlgemuth, Michael J. Conner, Grant M. Tinsley, Ty B. Palmer and Jacob A. Mota

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(2), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9020105 - 15 Jun 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3034

Abstract

The fire service suffers from high rates of cardiovascular disease and poor overall health, and firefighters often suffer fatal and non-fatal injuries while on the job. Most fatal injuries result from sudden cardiac death, while non-fatal injuries are to the musculoskeletal system. Previous [...] Read more.

The fire service suffers from high rates of cardiovascular disease and poor overall health, and firefighters often suffer fatal and non-fatal injuries while on the job. Most fatal injuries result from sudden cardiac death, while non-fatal injuries are to the musculoskeletal system. Previous works suggest a mechanistic link between several health and performance variables and injury risk. In addition, studies have suggested physical activity and nutrition can improve overall health and occupational performance. This review offers practical applications for exercise via feasible training modalities as well as nutritional recommendations that can positively impact performance on the job. Time-efficient training modalities like high-intensity interval training and feasible modalities such as resistance training offer numerous benefits for firefighters. Also, modifying and supplementing the diet and can be advantageous for health and body composition in the fire service. Firefighters have various schedules, making it difficult for planned exercise and eating while on shift. The practical training and nutritional aspects discussed in this review can be implemented on-shift to improve the overall health and performance in firefighters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine and Public Health)

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