Search Results (70)

Flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tendon injuries, although rare, severely affect foot stability and mobility, particularly in individuals engaging in repetitive push-off actions. This case study examines a 27-year-old male who underwent surgical repair for FHL tendon rupture, followed by a structured, multi-modal rehabilitation program integrating advanced therapeutic techniques. The 12-week program was divided into three distinct phases to ensure a structured and progressive recovery process. The Early Phase (Weeks 1–4) focused on pain and edema control through interventions such as massage, electrotherapy, kinesiotaping, and the use of peritendinous ultrasonography to monitor recovery progress. The Intermediate Phase (Weeks 5–8) aimed to enhance strength and flexibility by incorporating Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF), weight-bearing exercises, dynamic stretching, and the progressive integration of Graston massage techniques. Finally, the Advanced Phase (Weeks 9–12) prioritized functional recovery, utilizing balance training, load transfer exercises, agility drills, and Theragun applications to prepare the individual for a return to optimal physical performance. Significant improvements were observed, including pain reduction (VAS score reduced by X%), increased dorsiflexion flexibility (from X° to X°), and enhanced muscle strength (e.g., tibialis anterior strength increased by X%). Functional assessments, such as the Y Balance Test, revealed improved endurance and mobility. This case study highlights the benefits of integrating innovative techniques like Graston massage and Theragun within a structured, evidence-based rehabilitation program to optimize recovery post-FHL tendon surgery. Full article

Background: Main risk factors associated with the development of sarcopenia (coexistence of muscle mass loss and dysfunction) are a sedentary lifestyle coupled with obesity. Associated mitochondrial dysfunction leads to energy deficits and perturbations in the balance between protein synthesis and degradation, thereby triggering muscle dysfunction or atrophy. Aside from exercise, which is challenging to implement and maintain, particularly in women, treatments for diminishing sarcopenia are scarce. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of the flavanol (−)-epicatechin (EC) in a hypercaloric diet-induced obese female rat model. Muscle strength and endurance, as well as relative mitochondrial DNA content in skeletal muscle, were assessed. Methods: Female rats were fed a hypercaloric diet to induce obesity, as evidenced by increases in body weight, Lee index, and lipid profile alterations, and by abdominal fat accumulation, and to promote a sarcopenic phenotype. Functional tests of grip strength and mobility (treadmill) were performed. Mitochondrial relative content was evaluated by measuring the ratio of mtDNA/nuclear DNA, and the expression of genes related to mitochondrial biogenesis (Pgc1-α, Tfam), fusion (Mfn1 and Opa1), fission (Drp1 and Fis1), and mitophagy (Pink1 and Pkn), and function; citrate synthase and Ucp3 were also evaluated. Results: A significant decrease in mobility and strength was observed in obese female rats, accompanied by reduced mitochondrial numbers, activity, and dynamics, but not by changes in muscle size or weight. Treatment with EC induced mitochondrial biogenesis and positive changes in mitochondrial dynamics (fission and fusion) and activity, as measured indirectly by changes in citrate synthase and Ucp3 expression. Discussion: Results reinforce the potential of EC as a modulator of mitochondrial function in dysfunctional conditions associated with obesity, thereby attenuating the mechanisms underlying sarcopenia. Full article

Background: Motor decline associated with ageing compromises mobility, postural control and the ability, thereby increasing risk among older adults. Biomechanical characterization of movement, particularly using non-linear methods, offers a process-oriented approach capable of detecting subtle changes in motor coordination. The MIND&GAIT programme has previously demonstrated benefits in physical function in frail older individuals; however, its potential to improve motor coordination parameters that underpin fall risk remains insufficiently explored. Objectives: To analyse the impact of the MIND&GAIT program on motor coordination during sit-to-stand (STS) and walking tasks, two daily activities strongly associated with fall risk, using advanced non-linear and biomechanical metrics in institutionalized older adults. Methods: Fourteen institutionalized older adults (82.21 ± 7.14 years) participated. Three-dimensional acceleration and angular velocity were recorded using inertial sensors. Motor variability and predictability were quantified using the multivariate Lyapunov exponent (LyEM) and multivariate incremental entropy (MIE). STS (30 s) and walking-in-place (2 min) tasks were assessed pre- and post-intervention following a three-month, thrice-weekly programme. Results: Although no statistically significant differences emerged (ps > 0.05), trends were observed suggesting increases in LyEM during STS and in both MIE and LyEM during walking were found post-intervention. These exploratory findings may indicate enhanced motor complexity, stability and adaptability, features associated with reduced fall vulnerability. Conclusions: Despite the absence of statistical significance, the biomechanical trends observed suggest improvements in motor coordination patterns relevant to fall risk reduction in institutionalized older adults following the MIND&GAIT programme. These findings highlight the potential of structured exercise-based interventions for promoting safer movement behaviors in frail populations. Full article

Maintenance of skeletal muscle mass is essential for mobility, metabolic homeostasis, and clinical outcomes across a wide spectrum of physiological and pathological conditions. While muscle atrophy and hypertrophy have traditionally been interpreted through upstream anabolic–catabolic signaling and proteolytic pathways, accumulating evidence indicates that ribosome biogenesis and translational control represent rate-limiting determinants of muscle plasticity. However, this regulatory layer remains insufficiently integrated into current models of muscle adaptation and disease. In this review, we synthesize recent advances in ribosomal RNA transcription, ribosomal protein dynamics, and translational regulation in skeletal muscle, with particular emphasis on signaling networks governed by mTORC1, c-Myc, AMPK, and FOXO. We highlight ribosome biogenesis as a central hub linking mechanical loading, nutrient availability, inflammatory stress, and metabolic status to protein synthesis capacity. Evidence from human and animal studies demonstrates that impaired ribosome production and translational efficiency precede and predict muscle atrophy in disuse, aging, cancer cachexia, and chronic disease, whereas ribosome expansion is a prerequisite for sustained hypertrophy. Beyond quantitative regulation, we discuss the emerging concept of ribosome heterogeneity as a qualitative layer of translational control that may enable selective mRNA translation during muscle growth, stress adaptation, and degeneration. We further examine ribosome–mitochondria crosstalk as a critical but underexplored mechanism coordinating anabolic capacity with cellular energetics. Finally, we outline therapeutic implications, highlighting exercise, nutritional strategies, and indirect pharmacological interventions that preserve ribosomal competence, and propose ribosome-based biomarkers as promising tools for precision management of muscle-wasting disorders. Collectively, this review positions ribosome biology as a translationally relevant framework bridging molecular mechanisms with therapeutic perspectives in skeletal muscle atrophy and hypertrophy. Full article

Background/Objectives: Therapeutic exercise (TE) has been shown to be an effective tool for slowing physical and cognitive decline in patients with dementia. However, its true impact on physical and functional variables, as well as the duration of its effects once therapy is discontinued, remains unclear. The aim was to analyze the short- and medium-term effects of a structured and monitored TE program on motor function in patients with dementia. Methods: A pre–post clinical trial was conducted in individuals with a medical diagnosis of mild-to-moderate cognitive impairment (Mini-Mental State Examination scores between 10 and 23) who had not engaged in regular exercise during the previous 6 months. The study variables and their measurement tools included general motor function (Short Physical Performance Battery), trunk control (Trunk Control Test), balance (Berg Balance Scale), overall mobility and gait (Timed Up and Go Test), and degree of independence in activities of daily living (ADLs) (Barthel Index). Participants completed a 12-week TE intervention at moderate intensity, 3 days per week for 45 min sessions. The program included aerobic training and strength, coordination, flexibility, and balance exercises. TE intensity was monitored through heart rate and dynamic maximal resistance. Assessments were conducted at baseline (t0), immediately after the program (t1), and 6 months after completion (t2). Results: Significant global longitudinal effects of time were observed for general motor function, balance, trunk control, and mobility and gait, whereas no significant global effect was detected for independence in activities of daily living. Post-intervention changes were non-significant; however, several pairwise comparisons showed moderate-to-large effect sizes. Follow-up assessments revealed shifts in performance distributions consistent with functional decline. Conclusions: A structured TE program performed at moderate intensity may help slow or attenuate the physical decline experienced by individuals with dementia. Full article

The present article explores how the development of inner resources can serve as a decisive lever to initiate and sustain individual, organizational, and societal transformations. (1) We first examine the concept of emotional capital, understood as the ability to mobilize emotional competencies defined by models of emotional intelligence, a capital that boosts other forms of capital and enables transformation. (2) We then link this to a capacitating approach, grounded in the work of Sen, which focuses on valuing and expanding human potential. (3) We will introduce the paradigm of bienvivance as an economic and social perspective that ensures a better way of co-vivance, a bienvivance economy; a societal model which proposes to reorient our systems toward a collective dynamic of vitality and meaning, shared living, sustainability, and regeneration. Taken together, these three dimensions pave the way for transformations that connect inner growth with outer change, across educational, organizational, and societal practices. In this article, (4) we will illustrate such a bienvivance approach focused on capacitating pedagogy and emotional capital development via collaborative learning and co-construction of competencies’ student portfolio exercises, as an intrinsic part of development of learners’ lifelong competencies and a lever of potentials’ unlocking, and recognition’s decolonization. Full article

Background: Rhythmic sensory stimulation, including structured musical interventions, has gained renewed interest as a non-pharmacological strategy that may modulate cortical excitability and network stability in focal epilepsy. Although several small studies have reported changes in seizure frequency or epileptiform activity during rhythmic or music exposure, the underlying mechanisms and translational relevance remain insufficiently synthesized. Objective: This narrative review summarizes clinical evidence on music-based and rhythmic sensory interventions in focal epilepsy, outlines plausible neurophysiological mechanisms related to neural entrainment and large-scale network regulation, and discusses emerging opportunities for digital delivery of rhythmic protocols in everyday self-management. Methods: A structured search of recent clinical, neurophysiological, and rehabilitation literature was performed with emphasis on rhythmic auditory, tactile, and multimodal stimulation in epilepsy or related conditions. Additional theoretical and translational sources addressing oscillatory dynamics, entrainment, timing networks, and patient-centered digital tools were reviewed to establish a mechanistic framework. Results: Existing studies—although limited by small cohorts and heterogeneous methodology—suggest that certain rhythmic structures, including specific musical compositions, may transiently modulate cortical synchronization, reduce epileptiform discharges, or alleviate seizure-related symptoms in selected patients. Evidence from neurologic music therapy and rhythmic stimulation in other neurological disorders further supports the concept that externally delivered rhythms can influence timing networks, attentional control, and interhemispheric coordination. Advances in mobile health platforms enable structured rhythmic exercises to be delivered and monitored in real-world settings. Conclusions: Music-based and rhythmic sensory interventions represent a promising but underexplored adjunctive approach for focal epilepsy. Their effectiveness likely depends on individual network characteristics and on the structure of the applied rhythm. Digital integration may enhance personalization and adherence. Rigorous clinical trials and mechanistic studies are required to define optimal parameters, identify responders, and clarify the role of rhythmic stimulation within modern epilepsy care. Full article

Background: There is a critical need for feasible, non-equipment based, safe, and cost-effective exercise interventions to promote muscle strength, dynamic postural balance, and independent mobility in adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP) or spina bifida (SB). Objectives: This study aimed to examine the feasibility and preliminary response of a novel exercise program: Functionally Loaded High-Intensity Circuit Training (FUNHIT) and conventional High-Intensity Circuit Training (HIT) in adolescents with CP/SB. Methods: Enrolled participants were allocated to FUNHIT or HIT or Controls in our randomized control trial. The interventions were delivered 2×/week × 4 weeks. Feasibility was assessed through process, operational, and scientific metrics. Outcome measures included maximum walking speed, Four Square Step Test (FSST), Timed Up and Go (TUG) and its dual-task variants, Lateral Step-Up Test (LSUT), Fear of Falling (FoF) and physical activity (PA) questionnaires. Results: We tested 5 participants (1 CP, 4 SB) in our study. Recruitment and retention rates were acceptable (63% enrollment, 100% retention and adherence). FUNHIT (n = 2) participants showed improvements in maximum walking speed (8–12%), FSST (15–29%), LSUT (22–33%), and TUG (4%). The HIT participant (n = 1) demonstrated improved TUG dual-task performance (40%) and FSST (30%) only. Control participants (n = 2) had varied changes (from 0–24%) in mobility, strength, balance. No adverse events were reported. Participants successfully followed (100%) the prescribed exercise dosage over the four-week period. Conclusions: FUNHIT and HIT are feasible and safe interventions for adolescents with ambulatory CP and SB who retain motor function, showing promising preliminary improvements in muscle strength, dynamic balance, and independent mobility. Our findings need to be validated in larger samples. Full article

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effects of dual-task stroboscopic visual training (DTSVT) on balance, functional mobility, and gait in children who are hard-of-hearing. Methods: This randomized controlled study included 31 children (17 girls, 14 boys) with congenital sensorineural hearing loss. Participants were assigned to one of three groups: control group, conventional balance training (CBT) group, and DTSVT group. The CBT and DTSVT groups participated in an exercise program for 16 weeks, twice weekly, for 40 min (a total of 24 sessions). Static balance was assessed using the Tandem Romberg test and Single-Leg Stance (SLS) test, while dynamic balance was evaluated using the Functional Reach Test (FRT), balance disc test, and the Four Square Step Test (FSST). The Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS) was used as a subjective balance assessment. Functional mobility was assessed using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test, Step Test, 10 m Walk Test (10 MWT), and Functional Gait Assessment (FGA). Postural sway parameters were recorded using the GyKo device, including Sway Area (EA, cm²), Distance Length (DL, cm), Length (anterior–posterior (AP)) (cm), Length (medial–lateral (ML)) (cm), Mean Distance (D) (cm), Mean Distance (AP) (cm), and Mean Distance (ML) (cm). Results: Significant between-group differences were primarily observed in favor of the DTSVT group post-treatment, particularly in PBS scores, GyKoDL values during the eyes-open SLS test, and TUG test completion times (p < 0.05). Some baseline differences were noted among groups in functional reach distance, FSST completion time, and eyes-closed duration on the Balance Disc test (p < 0.05). Within-group comparisons revealed significant improvements in FSST times in both intervention groups, reduced postural sway parameters during the FRT in the DTSVT and control groups, and increased eyes-closed Tandem Romberg duration in the CBT group (p < 0.05). Most other outcome measures did not demonstrate statistically significant changes either within or between groups (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Dual-task stroboscopic visual training was more effective than conventional balance training in improving specific aspects of balance and functional mobility in children who are hard-of-hearing. These findings highlight the potential of adding cognitively demanding and visually engaging balance tasks to rehabilitation programs for this population. Larger and more diverse samples in future studies are needed to enhance the generalizability of these results. Studies that assess balance and gait using standardized clinical or laboratory tests may be particularly valuable. Given the small sample size and multiple comparisons, the results should be considered preliminary and exploratory. Full article

Background/Objectives: Performing therapeutic exercises using video games via virtual reality devices can be effective for preventing or mitigating bone mineral density (BMD) loss. The objective of this paper is to determine the effectiveness of virtual reality-based therapy (VRBT) in improving BMD, postural balance, fear of falling, pain intensity, and quality of life (QoL) in women with BMD loss. Methods: A systematic review with meta-analysis (SRMA), after searching in PubMed Medline, WOS, Scopus, CINAHL, and PEDro up to July 2025, was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), including women with BMD loss, in which VRBT was compared to conventional approaches for the management of BMD loss, were included. Methodological quality and quality of evidence were assessed using the PEDro scale and the GRADE statement, respectively. Effect size was estimated through standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Results: Seven RCTs, involving 299 women with BMD loss (mean age: 60.5 ± 7.7 years), were included in this SRMA. All VRBT employed non-immersive virtual reality (NIVR) devices.Significant effectiveness on BMD loss (SMD = 0.92; p = 0.002), functional (SMD = 1.7; p < 0.001) and dynamic balance or functional mobility (SMD = −1.7; p = 0.01), fear of falling (SMD = −0.5; p = 0.009), pain intensity (SMD = −2.7; p = 0.039) and QoL (SMD = 3.9; p = 0.002) was reported favors VRBT in women with BMD loss. Conclusions: This SRMA demonstrates that VRBT (especially NIVR) can be effective at improving BMD, postural balance, functional mobility, and QoL, while simultaneously reducing pain intensity and the fear of falling in these women. Full article

Recent studies have identified the hip joint as a central component of the human kinetic chain, playing a pivotal role in optimizing force transmission during movement. Enhancing its functional capacity represents an effective strategy for enhancing overall physical well-being and preventing injuries. This study investigates the effects of an eight-week hip joint functional training program on the health-related physical fitness, hip joint function, and factors associated with injury risk in university students from a track and field elective class. A total of 56 participants were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 28) or a control group (n = 28). The experimental group incorporated hip joint functional training, which comprising dynamic stretching and activation exercises, into their standard physical education (PE) class activities, while the control group continued with the regular physical education curriculum. Pre-intervention and post-intervention assessments included hip joint range of motion (ROM), functional movement screening (FMS), a 50 m sprint, standing long jump, sit-and-reach test, and spinal health evaluations. Results indicated that the experimental group demonstrated significant improvements in multi-directional hip range of motion (ROM), with examples including flexion increasing by 10° and external rotation by 9°. These improvements were accompanied by significant gains in functional movement screen (FMS) scores, with significant improvements in the Hurdle Step, whose median score increased to 3.0, Active Straight Leg Raise, and Rotary Stability components (all p < 0.05) compared to the control group. Furthermore, the training significantly reduced spinal asymmetry (axial trunk rotation reduced from 3.86° to 3.43°) and enhanced performance in the 50 m sprint (−0.26 s) and standing long jump (+0.08 m) (all p < 0.05). These objective improvements in functional movement patterns, postural alignment, and physical performance are associated with key biomechanical factors known to influence injury risk, such as the demonstrated gains in joint mobility and movement efficiency. Therefore, incorporating hip joint functional training into college physical education programs may effectively enhance students’ fundamental movement quality, improve joint stability, and promote postural health, thereby mitigating key biomechanical risk factors. This approach offers a practical strategy for educators to improve student physical health in general PE settings. Full article

Background/Objectives: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms such as tremor, bradykinesia, rigidity, and postural instability. In the absence of disease-modifying therapies, exercise remains one of the few interventions shown to effectively reduce fall risk and improve mobility. However, it remains unclear whether skeletal muscle ATP metabolism is impaired in PD, and whether the benefits of exercise arise primarily from improvements in central motor control or peripheral metabolic adaptations. Methods: Fourteen individuals with PD and five healthy controls underwent kinetic ³¹P Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) to assess resting muscle ATP synthesis and dynamic ³¹P MRS during in-magnet exercise to evaluate oxidative phosphorylation in active muscle. Results: At rest, ATP synthesis rates mediated by ATPase and creatine kinase (CK) were on average 46 ± 23% and 24 ± 9% lower, respectively, in the PD group compared to controls (p < 0.005), suggesting peripheral mitochondrial dysfunction. During plantar flexion exercise at 15% of lean body mass, range of motion (ROM) was reduced by 22 ± 5% in PD participants (p = 0.01). Despite this, post-exercise recovery of phosphocreatine (PCr) and inorganic phosphate (Pi) was similar between groups. Recovery time constants for PCr and Pi correlated with participants’ total weekly exercise time, indicating a metabolic adaptation to regular physical activity. Modest ROM improvements were observed in both groups following calf-raise exercise training. Conclusions: Reduced skeletal muscle ATP metabolism may contribute to peripheral weakness in PD. Regular exercise appears to promote adaptive metabolic responses, highlighting the need for therapeutic strategies targeting both central and peripheral components of PD. Full article

Dynamic mobilization exercises (DME) are an effective strategy to prevent musculoskeletal injuries and promote back health in sport horses. Previous studies focused mainly on multifidus muscle cross-sectional area, with limited data on locomotion and adaptation timing. This study evaluated locomotor changes using accelerometry, over 8 weeks of DME application in 14 sedentary horses: a DME group (n = 8) performing 10 different DME (3 neck flexions, 1 neck extension and 3 lateral bending exercises to each side), 5 repetitions of each DME per session, 3 sessions/week, and a control group (n = 6), that continued with their daily routine activities without any other training. During the study period, all horses were housed in medium-sized paddocks. Accelerometric measurements were performed at walk and trot before intervention, 2 h and 24 h after a DME session, and at 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks. The DME group showed significant increases in dorsoventral displacement and dorsoventral and mediolateral activities from week 4, at both walk and trot, which then stabilized. Longitudinal activity increased from week 2 on trot and from week 4 at walk. Locomotor symmetry and stride length improved at week 6, while stride frequency decreased at week 8; velocity remained unchanged. These findings indicate that DME enhances dorsoventral, mediolateral and longitudinal activities, producing longer, more symmetrical strides. Overall, DME appears to promote more symmetrical movement patterns. Full article

Background: Previous studies showed that workplace physical activity programs (WPAPs) could improve general health among employees. However, there is a lack of correlation between oxidative redox status and the metabolic and physical fitness (PF) of workers. The objective of the study was to evaluate the improvements of a 24-week combined circuit training and mobility training program on PF, oxidative redox status, and metabolic parameters on healthy academic employees. Methods: Twenty-six university employees (52.8 ± 11.5 years) followed a 24-week WPAP composed of two circuit training sessions and one mobility training session per week. PF components were assessed through one leg stand, shoulder/neck mobility, handgrip, dynamic sit-up, jump and reach, and 2-Minute step test (2MST). Oxidative stress and antioxidant potential were evaluated through derived-Reactive Oxygen Metabolites (d-ROM) and biological antioxidant potential (BAP) tests, respectively. Metabolic measurements included total cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C, triglycerides, and fasting plasma glucose. All assessments were conducted at baseline and after 24 weeks. Results: D-ROM values increased significantly likely due to an acute adaptive response to exercise and a stable BAP/d-ROM ratio was maintained. At baseline, subjects with higher 2MST scores showed a better BAP/d-ROM ratio compared to those with lower 2MST scores, which was also associated with normal weight status (p < 0.05), healthy values of triglycerides (p < 0.01), and LDL-C (p < 0.01). Excluding statin-treated subjects, an intriguing shift toward a condition of enhanced antioxidant capacity was observed. Conclusions: Overall, the 24-week WPAP improved metabolic health and maintained redox balance, despite increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Statin supplementation may have hidden antioxidant adaptations to physical exercise, an intriguing observation that warrants further studies. Full article

Augmented reality features, such as overlaying information in real time, modifying the projected scene, or dynamically adjusting parameters like contrast, zoom, and brightness, show promise in addressing the specific challenges faced by people with low vision. These tailored solutions enhance their visual experiences. When combined with mobile technology, these features significantly improve the personalization of visual aids and the monitoring of patients with low vision. Retiplus emerges as a personalized visual aid and rehabilitation system, utilizing smart glasses and augmented reality technology for visual aid functions, along with a mobile app for visual assessment, aid customization, and usage monitoring. This wearable system quickly assesses visual conditions, providing deep insights into the visual perception of patients with low vision. Designed to enhance autonomy and quality of life, Retiplus seamlessly integrates into indoor and outdoor environments, enabling the programming of rehabilitation exercises for both static and ambulatory activities at home. In collaboration with specialists, the system meticulously records patient interaction data for subsequent evaluation and feedback. A clinical study involving 30 patients with low vision assessed the effect of Retiplus, analyzing its impact on visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, visual field, and ambulation. The most notable finding was an average increase of 61% in visual field without compromising ambulation safety. Retiplus introduces a new user-centered approach that emphasizes collaboration among a multidisciplinary team for the customization of visual aids, thereby minimizing the gap between the perceptions of low vision specialists and technologists regarding user needs and the actual requirements of users. Full article