Biomechanical Properties of Muscle and Tendon in Neurological Conditions

A special issue of Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology (ISSN 2411-5142). This special issue belongs to the section "Physical Exercise for Health Promotion".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 July 2025 | Viewed by 905

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Centre for Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, London UB8 3PH, UK
Interests: muscle and tendon architecture and mechanical properties (e.g. stroke, cerebral palsy)

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We invite submissions for a Special Issue focused on the dynamic interaction between neural control of movement and the biomechanical properties of muscles and tendons. This complex feedback loop is shaped by the type and severity of inborn or acquired neural impairments, where changes in neural control can affect muscle and tendon properties, and vice versa. Additionally, the functional state of the muscle–tendon unit can influence both segmental and suprasegmental control mechanisms. We are seeking original research, theoretical perspectives, and comprehensive reviews that explore this bidirectional relationship. Papers may address the implications for motor control, rehabilitation strategies, and performance enhancement in both human and animal models. By investigating these interconnections, we aim to gain deeper insights into how neural impairments impact musculoskeletal function, as well as how understanding this relationship can inform therapeutic interventions and optimize performance. Contributions should provide valuable perspectives on advancing research in the fields of biomechanics, neurophysiology, and motor control.

Dr. Mohagheghi Amir
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • motor control
  • muscles
  • tendons
  • sensory receptors
  • nervous system
  • neural impairments
  • exercise
  • rehabilitation
  • surgery
  • pharmaceutical treatments
  • neural plasticity

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Published Papers (1 paper)

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Review

22 pages, 5056 KiB  
Review
Neurosciences and Sports Rehabilitation in ACLR: A Narrative Review on Winning Alliance Strategies and Connecting the Dots
by Rocco Salvatore Calabrò, Andrea Calderone and Nicola Fiorente
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(2), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10020119 - 2 Apr 2025
Viewed by 700
Abstract
This narrative review explores the significant evolution of sports rehabilitation, tracing its trajectory from basic exercise therapies of the early 20th century to the advanced, neuroplasticity-driven approaches of the 21st century, with a specific focus on anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The primary [...] Read more.
This narrative review explores the significant evolution of sports rehabilitation, tracing its trajectory from basic exercise therapies of the early 20th century to the advanced, neuroplasticity-driven approaches of the 21st century, with a specific focus on anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The primary aim is to understand how neuroplasticity, motor control, and sensorimotor retraining can optimize recovery, reduce reinjury risk, and enhance long-term athletic performance, and to synthesize current rehabilitation strategies that integrate innovative technologies, such as robotics, virtual reality (VR), and biofeedback systems, to address the neurocognitive deficits that contribute to the alarmingly high reinjury rates (9–29%) observed in young athletes post-ACLR. These deficits include impaired proprioception, motor control, and psychological factors like fear of reinjury. The methodology employed involves a narrative review of peer-reviewed literature from databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The synthesis of findings underscores the importance of holistic rehabilitation approaches, including targeted proprioceptive exercises, dual-task drills, and immersive VR training, in enhancing sensorimotor integration, decision-making, and athlete confidence. Furthermore, this review highlights the critical need for long-term monitoring and interdisciplinary collaboration between neuroscientists, physiotherapists, and engineers to refine rehabilitation protocols and ensure sustained recovery. By leveraging neuroplasticity and advanced technologies, the field can shift from a focus on purely physical restoration to comprehensive recovery models that significantly reduce reinjury risks and optimize athletic performance. Full article
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