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Basis of Applied Kinesiology, Innovations and Clinical Applications in Musculoskeletal...
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Basis of Applied Kinesiology, Innovations and Clinical Applications in Musculoskeletal Health

A special issue of Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology (ISSN 2411-5142). This special issue belongs to the section "Kinesiology and Biomechanics".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 May 2025 | Viewed by 13544

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Vicente Javier Clemente Suárez

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Faculty of Medicine, Health and Sports, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Villaviciosa de Odón, 28670 Madrid, Spain
Interests: sports science; exercise performance; exercise science; exercise physiology; sport physiology; exercise testing; strength and conditioning; athletic performance; physical fitness; resistance training
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This special issue aims to explore the latest advancements and clinical applications of applied kinesiology in the context of musculoskeletal health. We invite contributions that delve into innovative research and clinical practices that enhance the understanding of musculoskeletal function, treatment modalities, and rehabilitative techniques. The scope of this issue covers a range of topics including the efficacy of new therapeutic approaches, biomechanical assessments, neuromuscular adaptations to different physical interventions, and the evolution of methodologies in kinesiology that contribute to improving patient outcomes. We also encourage submissions that examine the integration of technology in kinesiology practice, such as the use of wearable devices, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence in diagnosing, monitoring, and treating musculoskeletal conditions. Additionally, papers that provide insights into the cellular and tissue-level responses to various kinesiological interventions are welcome.

This special issue aims to gather empirical research, systematic reviews, and case studies that collectively advance the field of kinesiology and offer practical insights applicable to clinical settings. Contributions from interdisciplinary teams that highlight collaborative efforts between kinesiologists, physiotherapists, sports scientists, and medical professionals are particularly encouraged.

Prof. Dr. Vicente Javier Clemente Suárez
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology is an international peer-reviewed open access quarterly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • applied kinesiology
  • musculoskeletal health
  • biomechanical assessments
  • neuromuscular adaptations
  • wearable devices
  • artificial intelligence
  • sports

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Published Papers (8 papers)

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Research

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15 pages, 509 KiB  
Article
Psychophysiological Response Differences Between Advanced and Beginner Climbers and Fatigue Management
by Alejandro Padilla-Crespo, Vicente Javier Clemente-Suárez and Álvaro Bustamante-Sánchez
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(1), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10010050 - 28 Jan 2025
Viewed by 984
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Rock climbing is a multifaceted athletic activity that requires both psychological and physiological resilience. This study aimed to examine the differences in psychological factors and fatigue predictors between novice and advanced climbers, with a focus on the interplay between experience and performance. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Rock climbing is a multifaceted athletic activity that requires both psychological and physiological resilience. This study aimed to examine the differences in psychological factors and fatigue predictors between novice and advanced climbers, with a focus on the interplay between experience and performance. Methods: The study included 60 participants categorized based on climbing experience (novice or advanced). Psychological and physiological assessments were conducted, including heart rate variability (HRV), grip strength, rate of force development (RFD), subjective perceived stress (SPS), and anxiety levels using validated questionnaires. Results: Advanced climbers exhibited lower anxiety levels and better sympathetic modulation compared to novices. Significant differences in HRV parameters, grip strength, and RFD were observed, reflecting the impact of experience on physiological responses. Advanced climbers demonstrated notable strength decreases post-climbing, supporting the utility of a force sensor on a 20 mm edge for assessing forearm fatigue. Correlations between cortisol levels, anxiety, and self-confidence during climbing were also identified. Conclusions: The findings highlight the importance of psychological and physiological factors in climbing performance. Forearm fatigue emerged as a critical predictor, suggesting that portable force sensors can optimize training and injury prevention. Insights from this study may enhance training protocols and improve real-time performance monitoring in climbers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Basis of Applied Kinesiology, Innovations and Clinical Applications in Musculoskeletal Health)
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21 pages, 2526 KiB  
Article
Characterization of Fitness Profiles in Youth Soccer Players in Response to Playing Roles Through Principal Component Analysis
by Boryi A. Becerra Patiño, Aura D. Montenegro Bonilla, Juan D. Paucar-Uribe, Diego A. Rada-Perdigón, Jorge Olivares-Arancibia, Rodrigo Yáñez-Sepúlveda, José Francisco López-Gil and José Pino-Ortega
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(1), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10010040 - 21 Jan 2025
Viewed by 1187
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Physical fitness in youth soccer impacts individual and team performance through the specific demands that must be met on the field. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize and identify youth soccer players with regard to the roles they play on the field. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Physical fitness in youth soccer impacts individual and team performance through the specific demands that must be met on the field. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize and identify youth soccer players with regard to the roles they play on the field. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was designed to characterize and identify the physical fitness levels of youth soccer players using previously validated measurement tests. A total of 36 players were evaluated (15 defenders and 24 attackers) using various physical fitness tests: Squat Jump (SJ), Countermovement Jump (CMJ), Single-leg Countermovement Jumps (SLCMJs), COD-Timer 5-0-5, Speed (5, 10, 15, and 20 m), Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level I (YYIR1), and Running-Based Anaerobic Sprint Test (RAST). The data were confirmed using the Shapiro–Wilk test. Effect sizes were obtained using the Rank-Biserial coefficient, and, to identify the profiles of attackers and defenders, principal component analysis (PCA) was employed. Results: For the strength variables, attackers obtained better results than defenders in the variable flight time in the SJ (p = 0.03; R-b = −0.33) and contact time (%) in the SLCMJ test (p = 0.04; R-b = −0.33). Meanwhile, defenders achieved better results than attackers in the SLCMJ test for the variable flight time (%) (p = 0.01; R-b = 0.33) and breaking angle (A°) in the Nordic Hamstring (p = 0.01; R-b = 0.33). The results showed differences according to the players’ roles. Three principal components were identified for both attackers and defenders. The PC1 for attackers considered variables of strength, asymmetry, change of direction, and power. PC2 only considered strength and power variables. PC3 considered variables of strength, speed, endurance, and power. For defenders, PC1 considered strength, asymmetry, and power. PC2 analyzed variables of strength, asymmetry, change of direction and power. Finally, PC3 only grouped speed variables. Conclusions: Although youth soccer positions involve offensive and defensive roles, this study reveals differences in certain physical fitness variables. Therefore, it is necessary to tailor training tasks according to the specificity of the playing position, in line with the systems of play used and the predominance of the role that players occupy, whether in defense or attack. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Basis of Applied Kinesiology, Innovations and Clinical Applications in Musculoskeletal Health)
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11 pages, 1037 KiB  
Article
Muscle Metabolism During Multiple Muscle Stimulation Using an Affordable Equipment
by Samantha Ye, Sydney Stetter and Kevin K. McCully
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(4), 248; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9040248 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1175
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Previous studies have shown that neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), while expensive, can provide some of the health benefits of exercise to people who cannot exercise their legs normally. The aim of this study was to quantify the increases in muscle metabolism [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Previous studies have shown that neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), while expensive, can provide some of the health benefits of exercise to people who cannot exercise their legs normally. The aim of this study was to quantify the increases in muscle metabolism in four muscles of the legs of able-bodied individuals with NMES. Methods: Healthy college-aged students were tested. NMES of four muscle groups was performed with inexpensive stimulators and reusable tin foil electrodes. The biceps femoris, vastus lateralis, medial gastrocnemius, and tibialis anterior muscles on one leg were stimulated for ten minutes with twitch stimulations at the highest comfortable stimulation current. Muscle metabolism was measured using the slope of oxygen consumption measured with near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) during 5 s of cuff ischemia. Results: Initial studies found fold increases in muscle metabolism above rest of 8.9 ± 8.6 for the vastus lateralis, 7.9 ± 11.9 for the biceps femoris, 6.6 ± 7.8 for the medial gastrocnemius, and 4.9 ± 3.9 for the tibialis anterior. Some participants were able to obtain large increases in muscle metabolism, while other participants had lower increases. Conclusions: The ability to produce large increases in metabolism has the potential to allow NMES to replace or augment exercise to improve health in people who cannot otherwise exercise. The devices used were inexpensive and could be adapted for easy use by a wide range of individuals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Basis of Applied Kinesiology, Innovations and Clinical Applications in Musculoskeletal Health)
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12 pages, 1228 KiB  
Article
Functional Tests of the Abdominal Wall Muscles in Normal Subjects and in Patients with Diastasis and Oblique Inguinal Hernias in a Pilot Study
by Dmitry Skvortsov, Andrei Cherepanin, Yulia Fadeeva, Andrey Timonin and Nataly Nosenko
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(3), 164; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9030164 - 15 Sep 2024
Viewed by 1276
Abstract
Objectives: To identify typical patterns of abdominal wall muscle activation in patients with diastasis recti and inguinal hernias compared to controls during the Valsalva maneuver, voluntary coughing, and physical activity. Methods: The study included 15 subjects: 5 with diastasis recti, 4 with inguinal [...] Read more.
Objectives: To identify typical patterns of abdominal wall muscle activation in patients with diastasis recti and inguinal hernias compared to controls during the Valsalva maneuver, voluntary coughing, and physical activity. Methods: The study included 15 subjects: 5 with diastasis recti, 4 with inguinal hernias, and 6 healthy controls. The functions of rectus abdominis (RA) and external oblique (OE) muscles were measured by surface electromyography (sEMG). Using ultrasound, the thicknesses of the RA, OE, internal oblique (IO), and transversus abdominis (TA) muscles were assessed as well as the echo intensity (EI) of RA and OE. Results: We found a significant effect of the type of abdominal wall pathology on the maximum sEMG amplitude (p = 0.005). There was a reliable trend in maximum sEMG amplitude, with the highest one in diastasis recti and a significantly lower one in inguinal hernias. Duncan’s test showed a significant difference in muscle thickness, both on the right and left sides, between patients with diastasis and controls, but only on the left side between patients with diastasis and those with inguinal hernia (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The abdominal wall pathology results in a change in the function and structure of the abdominal muscles, which can be detected using electromyography and ultrasound examination. The presence of diastasis recti is accompanied by an increase in bioelectrical activity and a decrease in thickness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Basis of Applied Kinesiology, Innovations and Clinical Applications in Musculoskeletal Health)
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12 pages, 1012 KiB  
Article
Relevance of Tibial Fixation during Tibiotarsal Joint Traction: Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study
by Carlos López-de-Celis, Jacobo Rodríguez-Sanz, Sergi Gassó-Villarejo, Erik García-Ribell, Vanessa González-Rueda, Elena Estébanez-de-Miguel and Elena Bueno-Gracia
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(3), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9030163 - 15 Sep 2024
Viewed by 1005
Abstract
Background: The effect of tibial fixation on the movement of the talus during the tibiotarsal axial traction technique (TATT) is unknown. The aim was to evaluate the effect on the tibiotarsus when applying three different intensities of TATT force with or without tibial [...] Read more.
Background: The effect of tibial fixation on the movement of the talus during the tibiotarsal axial traction technique (TATT) is unknown. The aim was to evaluate the effect on the tibiotarsus when applying three different intensities of TATT force with or without tibial fixation in healthy subjects, and to assess the reliability of detecting the different forces applied. Also, the discomfort generated during the technique would be analysed. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in thirty lower limbs. Three magnitudes of TATT force in an open-packed position were applied in tibial fixation and non-fixation conditions. The axial traction movement was measured by ultrasound, and the magnitudes of the force applied during low-medium and high TATT force were recorded in both conditions. Patients were asked about the level of discomfort perceived during the technique. Results: The most significant distance increase (mm) was observed in the tibial fixation condition at all magnitudes of the TATT (F = 102.693, p < 0.001). The discomfort sensation (numeric rating scale, “NRS”) was higher in the non-fixation condition (p > 0.05). The application of the technique showed good reliability (>0.75 ICC) for the detection of the applied force. Conclusions: The TATT in the tibial fixation condition produced more significant axial movement of the talus (mm) relative to the tibia than the non-tibial fixation condition did. The detection of the magnitudes of movement showed good reliability (ICC: 0.75 to 0.92). The technique was well tolerated at all force magnitudes, with the tibial fixation condition being the most tolerable. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Basis of Applied Kinesiology, Innovations and Clinical Applications in Musculoskeletal Health)
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Review

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12 pages, 413 KiB  
Review
Inspiratory Muscle Training and Its Impact on Weaning Success in Mechanically Ventilated ICU Patients: A Systematic Review
by José Luís Alonso-Pérez, Víctor Riquelme-Aguado, Daniel Rodríguez-Prieto, Alejandro López-Mejías, Carlos Romero-Morales, Giacomo Rossettini and Jorge Hugo Villafañe
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(2), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10020111 - 28 Mar 2025
Viewed by 390
Abstract
Background/Objectives: A major importance is now accorded to respiratory muscle weakness resulting from exposure to invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) in intensive care unit patients. Some authors suggested that Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT) could increase the chances of weaning off IMV. This systematic review [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: A major importance is now accorded to respiratory muscle weakness resulting from exposure to invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) in intensive care unit patients. Some authors suggested that Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT) could increase the chances of weaning off IMV. This systematic review examined the efficacy of IMT on weaning success in mechanically ventilated patients. Methods: A literature search was conducted on PubMed, Cochrane, and PEDro until June 2023. Weaning success, maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP), and Rapid Shallow Breathing Index (RSBI) were the outcome measures included. Results: Seven randomized controlled trials, including 517 participants under IMV for at least 48 h, were included in the review. From a qualitative point of view, a significant increase in MIP and a significant decrease in RSBI were found in the intervention group during the analysis. However, weaning success was the same between the intervention and control groups. No significant association was found between weaning success and the increase of MIP or the decrease of RSBI. Furthermore, it could not be demonstrated that a positive change in MIP or RSBI would increase the weaning success rates. Conclusions: From a qualitative point of view, IMT is effective in increasing MIP and decreasing RSBI. However, IMT has no significant impact on weaning success. Further research is recommended to analyze the effect of IMT on weaning success. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Basis of Applied Kinesiology, Innovations and Clinical Applications in Musculoskeletal Health)
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17 pages, 1790 KiB  
Review
Machine-Based Resistance Training Improves Functional Capacity in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Archie Kirk, James Steele and James P. Fisher
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(4), 239; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9040239 - 16 Nov 2024
Viewed by 3222
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Resistance training (RT) can improve the functional performance of older adults, maintaining independence and quality of life. It has been proposed that training interventions should implement exercises associated with the movements needed in everyday life. However, this strength training philosophy presents [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Resistance training (RT) can improve the functional performance of older adults, maintaining independence and quality of life. It has been proposed that training interventions should implement exercises associated with the movements needed in everyday life. However, this strength training philosophy presents challenges, specifically to older adults, and the use of resistance machines might present an efficacious alternative. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to explore the impact of machine-based RT on strength and functional capacity in older adults. Methods: The inclusion criteria were for strength training interventions to be a minimum of 6 weeks, using only resistance machines, with pre- and post-intervention measurements of functional capacity of either a timed up-and-go and/or a sit-to-stand test, and including healthy older adults (>60 years). Results: Following the screening, 17 articles met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review, 15 of which were included in the meta-analysis for functional outcomes (n = 614 participants), and 11 of which were included in the meta-analysis for strength outcomes (n = 511 participants). Analyses revealed significant standardized mean change in favor of machine-based RT for functional outcomes (0.72, 95% CIs 0.39 to 1.07) and strength outcomes (0.71, 95% CIs 0.34 to 1.08) compared to control conditions (functional = 0.09, 95% CIs − 0.1 to 0.28, strength = 0.1, 95% CIs − 0.05 to 0.24). Substantial heterogeneity was noted in the manipulation of RT variables and the magnitude of effects between studies. Conclusions: The data presented support the idea that significant strength and functional performance outcomes are attainable using uncomplicated, machine-based RT. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Basis of Applied Kinesiology, Innovations and Clinical Applications in Musculoskeletal Health)
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Other

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13 pages, 12274 KiB  
Perspective
Addressing Biomechanical Errors in the Back Squat for Older Adults: A Clinical Perspective for Maintaining Neutral Spine and Knee Alignment
by Zacharias Papadakis, Andreas Stamatis, Rania Almajid, Kwadwo Appiah-Kubi, Matthew Lee Smith, Nata Parnes and Ali Boolani
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(4), 224; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9040224 - 7 Nov 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3484
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Falls pose a significant health risk for older adults, often due to balance disorders and decreased mobility. Methods: The ability to perform sit-to-stand transfers, which involve squatting, is crucial for daily independence. Incorporating squats into exercise routines can enhance lower body strength, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Falls pose a significant health risk for older adults, often due to balance disorders and decreased mobility. Methods: The ability to perform sit-to-stand transfers, which involve squatting, is crucial for daily independence. Incorporating squats into exercise routines can enhance lower body strength, reduce fall risk, and improve overall quality of life. Results: While the back squat is beneficial, proper form is essential to avoid biomechanical errors, like lumbar hyperlordosis and knee valgus. Conclusions: Health and fitness professionals, such as physical therapists and/or clinical exercise physiologists, should carefully guide older adults in performing the back squat, addressing any functional deficits, and ensuring proper technique to minimize the risk of injury and maximize the benefits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Basis of Applied Kinesiology, Innovations and Clinical Applications in Musculoskeletal Health)
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