Search Results (229)

Introduction: Recurrent ankle sprains can lead to chronic ankle instability. The flossing technique aims to modify the function and characteristics of fascial tissue. The objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of flossing and sliding techniques in improving subjects with previous ankle sprains. Methods: Randomized, double-blind clinical study with a follow-up period. Twenty-six subjects were assigned to two study groups: experimental (flossing technique and passive manual therapy techniques) and placebo control group (flossing technique without compression and manual therapy techniques without sliding). The intervention lasted three weeks, with two sessions per week. The study variables were dorsiflexion under load (Leg Motion^®), ankle mobility under unloaded conditions (goniometer), pressure pain threshold (algometer), and stability (Rs Scan^® pressure platform). Three measurements were taken: pre-treatment (T0), post-treatment (T1), and after 3 weeks of follow-up (T2). Results: There were significant intergroup differences in dorsiflexion under load (F = 4.90; p = 0.02). Range of motion in plantar flexion without load (F = 3.78; p = 0.04), in the ellipse area (F = 4.72; p = 0.01), left stability (F = 3.74; p = 0.03), and right stability (F = 3.73; p = 0.03) without visual support. Conclusions: A physiotherapy protocol using flossing and manual sliding therapy can increase loaded dorsal flexion in young adults with previous ankle sprains. This intervention can also improve ankle plantar flexion under unloaded conditions. The area of the ellipse without visual support can improve in young adults with a history of ankle sprains following a program of flossing and manual therapy. Full article

The thermo-chemical treatment of dental implants leads to the formation of sodium titanate crystals on their surface. When in contact with blood, these crystals dissolve and trigger an ionic exchange cascade, resulting in the formation of a calcium apatite layer. This study, carried out both in vitro and in an animal model, aimed to determine whether the cooling rate of the treatment affects the size of the deposited crystals, and whether this in turn influences wettability and early bone-to-implant contact (BIC). A total of 50 dental implants and 50 titanium discs were treated using four different cooling rates, along with a control group. Crystal size was analyzed on implant surfaces using scanning electron microscopy, and wettability was assessed on titanium discs using a goniometer. Finally, the implants were placed in the tibiae of 13 rabbits, and histological analysis was performed after three weeks to compare BIC among groups. Results suggest that a cooling rate of 75 °C/h produces smaller sodium titanate crystals, which are associated with significantly improved surface wettability and a higher percentage of bone-to-implant contact after 3 weeks of healing (p < 0.05). Full article

This study aimed to compare isometric strength, range of motion (RoM), and strength ratios of shoulder internal and external rotators between female volleyball and hand ball players Twenty-five volleyball players (age = 21.8 ± 4.8 years, height = 178.5 ± 7.1 cm, mass = 69.3 ± 7.7 kg) and twenty-four handball players (age = 19.5 ± 2.9 years, height = 169.7 ± 6.4 cm, mass = 67.6 ± 8.4 kg), all competing in the Slovenian 1st national league, participated. Maximal isometric strength and passive RoM of internal and external rotation were measured bilaterally using a handheld dynamometer and goniometer, respectively. A significant group × side interaction was observed for internal rotation RoM (F = 5.41; p = 0.024; η² = 0.10), with volleyball players showing lower RoM on the dominant side (p = 0.001; d = 0.89), but this was not the case for handball players (p = 0.304). External rotation strength also showed a significant interaction (F = 9.34; p = 0.004; η² = 0.17); volleyball players were stronger in the non-dominant arm (p = 0.033), while handball players were stronger in the dominant arm (p = 0.041). The external-to-internal rotation strength ratio was significantly lower on the dominant side in volleyball players compared to handball players (p = 0.047; d = 0.59). Findings suggest sport-specific adaptations and asymmetries in shoulder function, emphasizing the need for sport-specific and individually tailored injury prevention strategies. Volleyball players, in particular, may benefit from targeted strengthening of external rotators and flexibility training to address imbalances. Full article

Motion analysis can be useful for multiplanar analysis of hand kinematics. The carpometacarpal (CMC) joint has been traditionally difficult to capture with surface-based motion analysis but is the most commonly arthritic joint of the hand and is of particular clinical interest. Traditional 3D motion capture of the CMC joint using multiple cameras and reflective markers and manual goniometer measurement has been challenging to integrate into clinical workflow. We therefore propose a markerless single-camera artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted motion capture method to provide real-time estimation of clinically relevant parameters. Our study enrolled five healthy subjects, two male and three female. Fourteen clinical parameters were extracted from thumb interphalangeal (IP), metacarpal phalangeal (MP), and CMC joint motions using manual goniometry and live motion capture with the Google AI MediaPipe Hands landmarker model. Motion capture measurements were assessed for accuracy, precision, and correlation with manual goniometry. Motion capture demonstrated sufficient accuracy in 11 and precision in all 14 parameters, with mean error of −2.13 ± 2.81° (95% confidence interval [CI]: −5.31, 1.05). Strong agreement was observed between both modalities across all subjects, with a combined Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.97 (p < 0.001) and an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.97 (p < 0.001). The results suggest AI-assisted live motion capture can be an accurate and practical thumb assessment tool, particularly in virtual patient encounters, for enhanced range of motion (ROM) analysis. Full article

Background/Objectives: Overhead athletes, including swimmers, are prone to shoulder adaptations and pathologies, such as scapular dyskinesis (SD) and glenohumeral internal rotation deficit (GIRD). While SD has been extensively studied in various overhead sports, its prevalence and clinical implications in swimmers remain unclear. This study aims to evaluate static scapular asymmetries (SAs), defined as differences in the observed position of the scapulae at rest or in a fixed position, in young elite swimmers and compare these findings with functional scapular dyskinesis (SD) tests, which assess alterations in scapular motion patterns during arm movement. It also assesses potential relationships between SA and SD. Methods: A cohort of 661 young elite swimmers (344 males, 317 females) was assessed during the National Young Swimming Championships. Scapular asymmetries were measured in two positions: at rest and at 90° abduction with internal rotation. The measurements included the following: (1) dHeight: Difference in superomedial scapular angle height from the C7 spinal process; (2) dDistance: Difference in the distance of the superomedial scapular angle from the body midline; (3) dAngle: Angular deviation of the medial scapular border from the plumb line, assessed using a goniometer. The presence of scapular dyskinesis (SD) was determined using a functional test, and SA findings were compared with SD results. Statistical analyses included ANOVA and chi-square tests, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Scapular asymmetries were observed in 3.63% to 15.43% of swimmers, with no significant associations with age, gender, BMI, training years, or swimming characteristics (p > 0.05). A significant difference was observed between dominant limb and scapular height in abduction (p < 0.05). In position 1 (resting position), SA was significantly more prevalent in swimmers without SD (p < 0.001 for dHeight, p = 0.016 for dDistance). In position 2 (abduction), SA was significantly associated with SD-negative subjects in dAngle (p = 0.014) and dDistance (p = 0.02), while dHeight was not significant (p > 0.05). These findings suggest that static scapular asymmetries do not necessarily correlate with dynamic scapular dysfunction (SD), and, indeed, a negative correlation was observed where SA was significantly more prevalent in swimmers without SD in several measures (position 1, p < 0.001 for dHeight and p = 0.016 for dDistance; position 2, p = 0.014 for dAngle and p = 0.02 for dDistance). Conclusions: Young elite swimmers exhibit a relatively symmetrical scapular positioning, with scapular asymmetries potentially representing normal adaptations rather than pathological findings. The lack of positive correlation between SA and SD, and the higher prevalence of SA in SD-negative subjects, suggests the need for caution when interpreting static scapular assessments in swimmers as SA may reflect sport-specific adaptations rather than pathology. Full article

The current study focuses on the manufacturing and characterization of various forms of Ecoflex and their composites to improve the mechanical properties and surface texture, specifically for use in wearable sensors and electronic skin applications. Various types of Ecoflex elastomers were mixed to form blended composite materials, which could be used to tune the mechanical properties. Experimental and simulation methods were conducted to understand the mechanical behavior and material properties of the manufactured samples under large deformation (1200% strain) by various dynamic loading conditions. Further, the surface conditions of specimens were analyzed and evaluated using scanning electron microscopy and contact angle goniometer. The Yeoh model reasonably predicts the viscoelastic and hysteresis behavior of Ecoflex and its composites in accordance with the experimental data for small and large strain. The surface smoothness and moisture-resistant properties of the material surface were enhanced up to a contact angle of 127° (maximum) by adding x = 15 wt% of surface tension diffusers, with a slight compromise in stretchability. This comprehensive investigation and database of Ecoflex–Ecoflex composite can guide and help researchers in selecting and applying the most appropriate Ecoflex/blended solutions for a specific application, while providing insight into the mechanics of materials of blended materials. Full article

Ankle mobility plays a critical role in dynamic stability and propulsion during fencing-specific actions. However, its relationship to performance metrics in young athletes remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between ankle range of motion (ROM), acceleration, and jump height in pre-adolescent male fencers, as well as to examine bilateral differences in ankle mobility between the front and rear foot. Fifteen fencers (age 10.86 ± 0.91 years) were assessed for ankle ROM (dorsiflexion, plantar flexion, inversion, eversion) using a goniometer. Performance tests included a 7 m sprint lunge (acceleration) and countermovement jump. Significantly large correlations were observed between front and rear foot ankle plantar flexion range of motion and both acceleration (r = 0.625–0.628, p < 0.05) as well as vertical jump height (r = 0.579–0.647, p < 0.05). Rear foot ankle plantar flexion range of motion significantly predicted acceleration (r² = 0.335, p < 0.05) and jump height (r² = 0.418, p < 0.05). In contrast, no meaningful associations were found between dorsiflexion, inversion, or eversion range of motion and performance metrics. Additionally, bilateral comparisons revealed significantly greater dorsiflexion in the front foot ankle and greater eversion in the rear foot ankle (p < 0.05). Plantar flexion ROM is a key contributor to acceleration and jump capacity in youth fencers. Incorporating ankle mobility training may support physical development in this population. Full article

This paper presents the development and validation of a high-resolution photonic and wireless monitoring system for knee-referenced gait cycle analysis. The proposed system integrates a single optical Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensor with a resonance wavelength of 1547.76 nm and electronic modules with inertial and magnetic sensors, achieving a 10 p.m. wavelength resolution and 1° angular accuracy. The innovative combination of these components enables a direct correlation between wavelength variations and angular measurements without requiring goniometers or motion capture systems. The system’s practicality and versatility were demonstrated through tests with seven healthy individuals of varying physical attributes, showcasing consistent performance across different scenarios. The FBG sensor, embedded in a polymeric foil and attached to an elastic knee band, maintained full sensing capabilities while allowing easy placement on the knee. The wireless modules, positioned above and below the knee, accurately measured the angle formed by the femur and tibia during the gait cycle. The experimental prototype validated the system’s effectiveness in providing precise and reliable knee kinematics data for clinical and sports-related applications. Full article

Today’s exoskeletons face challenges with low fluency (a quantifiable alternative to “seamlessness”), hypothesized to be caused by a lag in active control innate in many leader–follower paradigms seen in contemporary systems, leading to inefficiencies and discomfort. Furthermore, tandem fluency, a variation of fluency specific for tandem robots systems as exoskeletons, is yet to be rigorously tested in practice. This study aims to utilize metrics of tandem fluency in order to demonstrate improved human–robot interaction (HRI) in exoskeletons through human subject testing of a prototype 1 degree of freedom (DoF) exoskeleton using a motion prediction bidirectional long short-term memory (bi-LSTM) deep learning network. Subjects were recruited to conduct various upper body exercises about the elbow joint, and the collected sEMG, goniometer, and gas exchange data was used to design, test, optimize, and assess the performance of the 1 DoF exoskeleton using tandem fluency metrics. We found that the correlation between I-ACT, a metric of tandem fluency, the subjective survey responses, and metabolic data suggest that the use of a predictive bi-LSTM network to control a 1 DoF exoskeleton about the elbow results in an overall positive trend, which may correlate to high tandem fluency. Full article

Alterations in static plantar pressure distribution serve as important indicators of gait and balance impairments in individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). In addition, the identification of altered patterns of plantar load distribution, along with restricted ankle dorsiflexion, may serve as early markers of postural instability and gait dysfunction in women with MS. Objectives: To assess differences in static plantar pressure, load distribution, and ankle dorsiflexion range of motion between women diagnosed with MS and women without the condition. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted between April and December 2024. Women with MS were recruited from patient associations in the provinces of Alicante and Murcia, as well as from the neurology outpatient clinic at the Doctor Balmis University Hospital (Alicante, Spain). Static postural assessment was performed using the Neo-Plate^® pressure platform, which measured maximum and mean plantar pressure (kPa), load distribution (%), contact surface area (cm²), and anterior–posterior weight distribution between the forefoot and rearfoot. The ankle dorsiflexion range of motion was assessed with a universal two-arm goniometer. All parameters were compared with those of a group of women without a diagnosis of MS. Results: Compared to women without MS, participants with MS showed a significantly greater load on the right forefoot (25.75% vs. 23.41%, p = 0.021), and reduced load on the right (23.09% vs. 26.01%, p = 0.004) and left rearfoot (26.60% vs. 30.85%, p = 0.033). Total forefoot loading was significantly higher (52.33% vs. 46.40%, p < 0.001), and rearfoot loading was lower (47.64% vs. 52.42%, p = 0.006) in the MS group. Ankle dorsiflexion range of motion was also significantly reduced in women with MS, both with the knee flexed (5.95° ± 4.50 and 6.76° ± 4.69 vs. 15.45° ± 5.04 and 14.90° ± 5.43) and extended (2.69° ± 3.69 and 3.12° ± 3.83 vs. 8.17° ± 3.41 and 8.60° ± 3.31), with all differences reaching statistical significance (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Women with MS present significant alterations in static plantar load distribution, with increased forefoot and decreased rearfoot loading, as well as markedly reduced ankle dorsiflexion, in comparison to women without the disease. These findings suggest the presence of postural imbalances associated with MS, potentially affecting functional stability and mobility. Full article

Background/Objectives: Sedentary office workers (SOWs) often adopt prolonged sitting postures, which potentially disrupt the lumbar–pelvic rhythm (LPR) and contribute to lower back pain (LBP). This study aimed to clarify the group differences in LPR and related physical factors between SOWs with and without LBP. Methods: Sixty-three SOWs were divided into LBP (n = 30) and non-LBP (n = 33) groups. The lumbar flexion angle (LF) and lumbar–hip angle difference (LHD), which are indicators of LPR, were measured using inertial sensors during trunk flexion. Hip flexion muscle strength (HFMS) and hip-extension muscle strength (HEMS) were assessed using handheld dynamometry. Hip joint range of motion (ROM) was measured using a goniometer. Lumbar proprioception was evaluated via active joint repositioning, and pain and perception were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale, Oswestry Disability Index, and Fremantle Back Awareness Questionnaire. Results: Multiple regression analysis showed significantly greater LF (estimated regression coefficient [ERC]: −2.9, p < 0.05) and LHD (ERC: −5.5, p < 0.05) during early trunk flexion (ETF) in the LBP group. In the LBP group, LHD during ETF and late trunk flexion were positively correlated with HFMS, and HFMS was correlated with HEMS. Conclusions: HFMS may contribute to an altered LPR in SOWs with LBP. Full article

The effect of low-temperature plasma treatment on the surface properties of thermoplastic starch film (TPS) was investigated. The surface layer (SL) modification of polymeric materials is mainly carried out to improve wettability and adhesive properties and to increase surface cleanliness. TPS was modified in an air atmosphere under either atmospheric or reduced pressure. The process parameters for modifying the SL of TPS were determined based on wettability assessment using a goniometer, geometric structure using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the degree of oxidation (O/C ratio) using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Additionally, the effect of plasma treatment on TPS film sterilization was investigated. Full article

Background: Cervical radiculopathy is one of the frequent musculoskeletal problems prevalent in the general population, characterized by neck pain radiating to the upper limb. This study investigated the effects of the myokinetic stretching technique versus post-isometric relaxation (PIR) exercises with mechanical traction in patients with cervical radiculopathy. Methods: A single-blinded, randomized clinical trial was conducted from March 2023 to June 2023. Sixty-six patients with cervical radiculopathy were randomly assigned to two groups: Group A (n = 33) received myokinetic stretching exercises and Group B (n = 33) received isometric relaxation exercises, while mechanical cervical traction was applied to both groups as the baseline treatment. The treatment frequency was two sessions per week for eight weeks. Outcome measures were pain, range of motion, and neck disability measured through the Numerical Pain Rating Scale, a goniometer, and the Urdu version of the Neck Disability Index. Assessments were performed at the baseline and the 4th and 8th weeks of the treatment. Results: The between-group analysis showed a non-significant difference (p > 0.05). The within-group analysis showed (p < 0.001) significant improvement in both groups. Conclusion: This study concluded that the myokinetic stretching technique and post-isometric relaxation exercises combined with mechanical traction are effective in improving pain, range of motion, and neck disability in patients with cervical radiculopathy. Full article

This study aimed to investigate the effect of the FIFA 11+ program on knee instability and motor performance in male youth soccer players. Thirty male youth soccer players were divided into two groups: the experimental group (FIFA+) performed the FIFA 11+ program for 10 weeks, while the control group followed their usual warm-up routine. Dynamic knee valgus (DKV) and squat depth were assessed using a Microsoft Azure Kinect camera and dynaknee software. Maximal isometric muscle force was measured with a dynamometer. The Y Balance test was used to evaluate dynamic balance, while a countermovement jump test assessed lower limb power. The knee range of motion was measured with a goniometer, and the t-test was used to evaluate agility. After the intervention, the FIFA+ group showed a significant decrease in DKV and squat depth (p < 0.05), while the control group showed no significant changes (p > 0.05). Both groups improved in motor performance, with slight progress noted in the FIFA+ group. However, neither group demonstrated significant improvement in dynamic balance (p > 0.05). While the FIFA 11+ program may not substantially enhance overall motor performance or match the effectiveness of other training regimens, it shows potential for addressing biomechanical deficiencies and reducing the risk of injuries, particularly those related to dynamic knee valgus. Full article

Falls are a major health issue in societies globally and the second leading cause of unintentional death worldwide. To address this issue, many studies aim to remotely monitor gait to prevent falls. However, these activity data collected in studies must be labelled with the appropriate environmental context through Human Activity Recognition (HAR). Multimodal HAR datasets often achieve high accuracies at the cost of cumbersome sensor systems, creating a need for these datasets to be analysed to identify the sensor types and locations that enable high-accuracy HAR. This paper analyses four datasets, USC-HAD, HuGaDB, Camargo et al.’s dataset, and CSL-SHARE, to find optimal models, methods, and sensors across multiple datasets. Regarding window size, optimal windows are found to be dependent on the sensor modality of a dataset but mostly occur in the 2–5 s range. Support Vector Machines (SVMs) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) are found to be the highest-performing models overall. ANNs are further used to create models trained on the features from individual sensors of each dataset. From this analysis, Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs) and three-axis goniometers are shown to be individually capable of high classification accuracy, with Electromyography (EMG) sensors exhibiting inconsistent and reduced accuracies. Finally, it is shown that the thigh is the optimal location for IMU sensors, with accuracy decreasing as IMUs are placed further down away from the thigh. Full article