Effects of Exercise and Functional Interventions on Musculoskeletal Health

A special issue of Life (ISSN 2075-1729). This special issue belongs to the section "Medical Research".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2025 | Viewed by 1434

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Department of Physical Therapy, Korea National University of Transportation, Jeungpyeong, Republic of Korea
Interests: exercise; electromyography; gait analysis; posture; biomechanics
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Musculoskeletal health plays a critical role in maintaining mobility, independence, and overall quality of life across the human lifespan. With increasing aging populations and the rising prevalence of chronic musculoskeletal disorders, evidence-based strategies for improving physical function have become more essential than ever. This Special Issue will explore the effects of exercise and functional interventions—ranging from strength and balance training to postural correction and novel movement-based therapies—on musculoskeletal health.

We welcome original research articles, clinical trials, systematic reviews, and pilot studies that investigate the impact of various exercise modalities, virtual or augmented reality interventions, and rehabilitation programs on outcomes such as muscle strength, posture, gait, joint stability, fall prevention, and sarcopenia. Studies targeting elderly populations, individuals with musculoskeletal impairments, or those recovering from injury or illness are especially encouraged.

This Special Issue will provide a platform for multidisciplinary research bridging biomechanics, rehabilitation science, geriatrics, and preventive care. Contributions that also evaluate the effectiveness, feasibility, or reliability of assessment tools used in musculoskeletal health monitoring are also welcome.

Researchers are invited to submit papers that will advance our understanding of how physical interventions can promote musculoskeletal resilience and prevent functional decline.

Prof. Dr. Seong-Gil Kim
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • musculoskeletal health
  • exercise
  • physical function
  • joint stability
  • fall prevention
  • rehabilitation science

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Published Papers (2 papers)

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Review

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42 pages, 743 KiB  
Review
Pediatric Genetic Dystonias: Current Diagnostic Approaches and Treatment Options
by Graziana Ceraolo, Giulia Spoto, Carla Consoli, Elena Modafferi, Gabriella Di Rosa and Antonio Gennaro Nicotera
Life 2025, 15(7), 992; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15070992 - 20 Jun 2025
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Abstract
Genetic dystonias are a heterogeneous group of movement disorders characterized by involuntary, sustained muscle contractions that cause repetitive movements and abnormal postures. Often beginning in childhood, they can significantly affect quality of life. Although individually rare, genetic causes are collectively relevant in pediatric [...] Read more.
Genetic dystonias are a heterogeneous group of movement disorders characterized by involuntary, sustained muscle contractions that cause repetitive movements and abnormal postures. Often beginning in childhood, they can significantly affect quality of life. Although individually rare, genetic causes are collectively relevant in pediatric dystonias, with over 250 associated genes. Among these, TOR1A, SGCE, and KMT2B are the most frequently reported in pediatric forms. Diagnosis is challenging due to the wide clinical and genetic variability. Recent advances in genetic testing, including whole-exome and whole-genome sequencing, have improved the early identification of causative variants. Functional data on selected mutations are helping to refine genotype–phenotype correlations. Management typically requires a multidisciplinary approach. Symptomatic treatments include anticholinergics, benzodiazepines, and botulinum toxin, while deep brain stimulation can be effective in refractory cases, especially in patients with TOR1A variants. Disease-modifying therapies are also emerging, such as gene therapy for AADC deficiency, highlighting the potential of precision medicine. This review provides an updated overview of pediatric genetic dystonias, with a focus on differential diagnosis and treatment strategies. Early and accurate diagnosis, together with personalized care, is key to improving outcomes in affected children. Full article
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Other

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12 pages, 1230 KiB  
Protocol
Biomechanical Usability Evaluation of a Novel Detachable Push–Pull Device for Rehabilitation in Manual Wheelchair Users
by Dongheon Kang, Seon-Deok Eun and Jiyoung Park
Life 2025, 15(7), 1037; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15071037 - 30 Jun 2025
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Abstract
Manual wheelchair users are at high risk of upper limb overuse injuries due to repetitive propulsion mechanics. To address this, we developed a novel detachable push–pull dual-propulsion device that enables both forward and backward propulsion, aiming to reduce shoulder strain and promote balanced [...] Read more.
Manual wheelchair users are at high risk of upper limb overuse injuries due to repetitive propulsion mechanics. To address this, we developed a novel detachable push–pull dual-propulsion device that enables both forward and backward propulsion, aiming to reduce shoulder strain and promote balanced muscle engagement. This study presents a protocol to evaluate the device’s biomechanical impact and ergonomic effects, focusing on objective, quantitative analysis using a repeated-measures within-subject design. Thirty participants with spinal cord injury will perform standardized propulsion trials under two conditions: push and pull. Motion capture and surface electromyography (EMG) will assess upper limb kinematics and muscle activation. Each propulsion mode will be repeated over a 10-m track, and maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) data will be collected for EMG normalization. The protocol aims to provide objective evidence on the propulsion efficiency, muscle distribution, and ergonomic safety of the device. Findings will inform future assistive technology development and rehabilitation guidelines for manual wheelchair users. Full article
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