Search Results (91)

Adolescence represents a critical period of neurodevelopment during which brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a fundamental role in neuronal survival and synaptic plasticity. While exercise-BDNF relationships are well-documented in adults, evidence in adolescents remains limited and inconsistent. This systematic review examined the effects of exercise modalities on circulating BDNF concentrations in adolescent populations. A systematic search was conducted following PRISMA guidelines across multiple databases (FECYT, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, ProQuest Central, SCOPUS, Cochrane Library) through June 2025. Inclusion criteria comprised adolescents, exercise interventions, BDNF outcomes, and randomized controlled trial design. Methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro scale. From 130 initially identified articles, 8 randomized controlled trials were included, with 4 rated as excellent and the other 4 as good quality. Exercise modalities included aerobic, resistance, concurrent, high-intensity interval training, Taekwondo, and whole-body vibration, with durations ranging 6–24 weeks. Four studies demonstrated statistically significant BDNF increases following exercise interventions, four showed no significant changes, and one reported transient reduction. Positive outcomes occurred primarily with vigorous-intensity protocols implemented for a minimum of six weeks. Meta-analysis was not feasible due to high heterogeneity in populations, interventions, and control conditions. Moreover, variation in post-exercise sampling timing further limited comparability of BDNF results. Future research should standardize protocols and examine longer interventions to clarify exercise-BDNF relationships in adolescents. Full article

The present study aims to investigate the multi-year effects (5 years) of individualized whole-body vibration (WBV) on locomotion, postural control, and handgrip strength in a 68-year-old man with relapse remitting multiple sclerosis (PwRRMS). The dose–response relationship induced by a single session was quantified by determining the surface electromyographic activity (sEMG) of the participant. The participant wore an orthosis to limit the lack of foot dorsiflexion in the weakest limb during walking in daily life. The gait alteration during walking was assessed at 1, 2 and 3 km/h (without the orthosis) through angle–angle diagrams by quantifying the area, perimeter and shape of the loops, and the sEMG of leg muscles was recorded in both limbs. The evaluation of postural control was conducted during upright standing by quantifying the displacement of the center of pressure (CoP). The handgrip strength was assessed by measuring the force–time profile synchronized with the sEMG activity of upper arm muscles. The participant improved his ability to walk at higher speeds (2–3 km/h) without the orthosis. There were greater improvements in the area and perimeter of angle–angle diagrams for the weakest limb (Δ = 36–51%). The sEMG activity of the shank muscles increased at all speeds, particularly in the tibialis anterior of weakest limbs (Δ = 10–68%). The CoP displacement during upright standing decreased (Δ = 40–60%), whereas the handgrip strength increased (Δ = 32% average). Over the 5-year period of intervention, the individualized WBV improved locomotion, postural control and handgrip strength without side effects. Future studies should consider the possibility of implementing an individualized WBV in PwRRMS. Full article

Background: Whole-body vibration (WBV) favors central integration and elaboration of proprioceptive stimuli, enhancing gait performance in individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, the effect of WBV on spatiotemporal gait kinematics in PD has been neglecting so far. This study aims to examine how exposure to WBV could influence kinematic parameters in PD. Methods: Gait kinematic parameters of 26 mild-stage PD participants (age: 66.7 ± 1.63 years) were measured using BTS G-Walk sensor during a 10 m walk test under three conditions—WBV, half squat without vibration (HS), and control condition (CC)—in a crossover randomized design. Results: Walking time was significantly slower (p < 0.01) in CC compared to WBV and HS, while no significant differences were observed between WBV and HS. Right leg propulsion was significantly lower in CC compared to HS (p < 0.01), with no significant differences between CC and WBV. Left leg propulsion was significantly lower in CC and WBV compared to HS (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively). Pelvic tilt was significantly lower (p < 0.05) in CC compared to WBV and HS, but no significant difference was observed between WBV and HS. Cadence was significantly lower (p < 0.05) in CC and WBV than HS. Conclusions: WBV shows promising effects on functional mobility and postural control in PD, with HS offering greater benefits. Exercise modalities should be carefully selected to enhance different gait parameters. Full article

Introduction: Emerging evidence indicates that whole-body vibration (WBV) may be a relevant adjunct in interventions targeting overweight and obese individuals. Moreover, WBV has been applied in combination with other exercise modalities and therapeutic strategies, with various physiological responses observed in this population. Objective: The current systematic review aimed to assess the physiological effects of WBV with other modalities of exercises in overweight and obese individuals. Methods: Searches in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane databases were conducted to assess physiological responses to the combination of WBV with other modalities of exercises in overweight and obese individuals. Publications were identified and the screening was performed by two reviewers, independently. Irrelevant studies were excluded based on the eligibility criteria. Results: Seven studies, analyzing different outcomes, were included, with a mean methodological quality score of 7. Four studies analyzed the acute effect and three studied the cumulative effect, with different intervention protocols. Increases in growth hormone (GH) concentrations and bioelectrical phase angles, and reductions in fat mass, blood triglycerides, and cholesterol concentrations, as well as blood pressure, heart rate, and arterial stiffness, were reported. Conclusions: WBV combined with other exercise modalities seems to promote important physiological responses in overweight and obese individuals. However, more large-scale, long-term randomized controlled trials with WBV and other modalities of exercises in overweight and obese cohorts are needed to corroborate and expand the findings of the current systematic review. Full article

Background: This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to provide a detailed analysis of the current state of knowledge on Progressive Exercise Training (PET), encompassing its diverse modalities, effects on bone mineral density (BMD), quality of life outcomes, and implications for clinical practice. Methods: A structured search strategy was employed to retrieve literature from seven databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, MEDLINE, Science Direct, EBSCO, CINHAL, and PEDro) yielded twenty-four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) meeting the inclusion criteria. The methodological quality of studies was evaluated using the PEDro scale. Meta-analyses were carried out to comprehensively assess the collective impact of PET on bone mineral density outcomes. Results: PET exhibited favorable effects on BMD across multiple anatomical sites, encompassing the femoral neck, total hip, lumbar spine, and others. This effect was observed across different age groups and genders, highlighting its potential benefits for diverse populations. PET encompasses a range of modalities, including resistance training, aerobic training, impact training, whole-body vibration, and tai chi, with a duration ranging from 4 to 24 months, with weekly sessions varying from two to five times. Some studies combined these modalities, reflecting the adaptability of PET to individual preferences and capabilities. Tailoring exercise prescriptions to individual needs emerged as a feasible approach within PET. A subset of studies assessed quality of life using validated instruments such as the 36-item short form survey (SF-36), shortened osteoporosis quality of life questionnaire (SOQLQ), and menopause quality of life instrument (MENQOL). Conclusions: This study provides strong evidence that PET represents a promising intervention for osteoporosis management, enhancing BMD and, to some extent, quality of life. PET offers a beacon of hope for better skeletal health and well-being in individuals grappling with osteoporosis, emphasizing the need for its incorporation into clinical practice. Full article

Background and Objectives: Whole-body vibration (WBV) therapy presents controversial evidence regarding its effectiveness in improving lower limb functional capacity in children with cerebral palsy (CP), particularly when applied continuously as an adjunct to a physiotherapy program with demonstrated efficacy. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of adding WBV to an intensive therapeutic exercise and functional training program in improving lower limb functional capacity in children with spastic CP. Materials and Methods: Thirty children with spastic CP were randomly assigned to a control or experimental group. Both groups completed a 4-week intensive therapeutic exercise and functional training program (4 sessions/week). The experimental group additionally received daily WBV. Results: Both groups showed significant improvements in all analysed variables at 1, 2, and 6 months post-treatment (p < 0.001). However, no significant between-group differences were found for primary (GMFM-88 D: p = 0.80; GMFM-88 E: p = 0.91) or secondary outcomes in relation to muscle tone and strength, and balance. A trend toward greater improvement was observed in the experimental group but without statistical significance. Conclusions: The addition of WBV to an intensive program of therapeutic exercise and functional training does not yield additional benefits in motor function, spasticity, gait capacity, lower limb muscle strength, or balance compared to intensive physiotherapy and functional training alone in children with spastic CP. The significant within-group improvements can be attributed to the intensive physiotherapy intervention, comprising therapeutic exercises and functional training. Full article

Background/Objectives: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) have been found to be the leading factor in disabilities and absenteeism among workers. Despite their growing numbers, WMSD prevalence and risk factors among food delivery riders remain underexplored. Given the high WMSD prevalence among motorcyclists and the rising road traffic accidents (RTAs) among delivery riders in Malaysia, a cross-sectional study was conducted to identify the determinants of WMSDs among this neglected group. Methods: A self-reported questionnaire consisting of sociodemographic factors, work-related factors, and a validated Malay-translated Standardised Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (M-SNMQ) was used to evaluate the WMSD symptoms and related factors among 191 food delivery riders in Eastern Peninsular Malaysia. An ergonomic risk assessment using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) method and whole-body vibration (WBV) measurement was also conducted to elicit the WMSD risk and vibration exposure among the riders. The determinants of WMSDs were analysed using multiple logistic regression using SPSS 20.4. Results: This study revealed a high prevalence of WMSDs (74.9%) among food delivery riders in Eastern Peninsular Malaysia. Furthermore, three factors were found to be significantly associated with WMSDs among riders, namely the increasing average working days (aOR = 2.00; 95% CI = 1.34, 2.98; p = 0.001), whole-body vibration (WBV) above the exposure action value (EAV) limit (aOR = 2.71; 95% CI = 1.13, 6.53; p = 0.026), and not exercising before work (aOR = 21.63; 95% CI = 7.45, 62.79; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Targeted interventions are essential to mitigate ergonomic risks and enhance rider safety. Occupational health policies should prioritise pre-work exercise and WBV exposure reduction to minimise musculoskeletal strain. Future longitudinal studies are needed to evaluate the long-term impact of these risks on riders’ health. Full article

Background/Objectives: Arterial stiffness, a critical predictor of cardiovascular events, varies regionally across peripheral, central, and systemic arteries, necessitating targeted exercise interventions for young men. However, research on the effects of exercise on arterial stiffness in these regions among young men remains limited. This review aims to (i) examine the effects of exercise on arterial stiffness in young men across these regions, and (ii) investigate the underlying mechanisms involved. Methods: Database searches on PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, and Scopus were conducted up to July 2024. The keywords were: exercise, men/male, and arterial stiffness. Inclusion criteria were studies involving young men, supervised exercise, and arterial stiffness measures. Thirty-five papers were categorized into groups based on peripheral, central and systemic arterial stiffness. Results: Peripheral arterial stiffness: continuous aerobic cycling (light to high intensity), interval aerobic cycling (moderate to high intensity), and 30-s stretching exercises demonstrated positive effects, likely due to short-term changes in sympathetic nervous system activity, nitric oxide availability, and vascular tone. Central arterial stiffness: chronic high-intensity continuous and interval aerobic cycling exercises promoted vascular remodeling, including elastin preservation and collagen regulation. For systemic arterial stiffness, continuous and interval aerobic cycling and light-intensity squats with whole-body vibration exercises improve endothelial function, smooth muscle relaxation, and vascular remodeling. Conclusions: Tailored exercise intervention can effectively reduce arterial stiffness across peripheral, central and systemic regions in young men. Improvements in peripheral stiffness are linked to short-term metabolic shifts, central stiffness responds to long-term remodeling, while systemic arterial stiffness involves both short- and long-term metabolic adaptations. Full article

Background: Whole-body vibration is a modality of exercise that uses high-frequency mechanical stimuli to enhance motor functions. Previous studies have demonstrated benefits of whole-body vibration in older adults. However, prolonged use of this modality of exercise may be detrimental to certain conditions. Objectives: to verify the acute effects of a single whole-body vibration session on mobility and postural control in community-dwelling older adults. Methods: In this two-arm, single-blind clinical trial, fifty-two participants were randomly allocated to either the experimental (subject to a single whole-body vibration session with a vibration amplitude of 2 mm and a frequency of 40 Hz) or placebo group. The exercise sessions were conducted using a tri-planar vibration platform. The tri-plane plates were adjusted to vibrate up and down, side to side, and front to back. The assessments included mobility and postural control tests. Repeated-measures analyses of variance were performed to examine the main effect of group (experimental vs. placebo), time (baseline vs. after the intervention), and group × time interaction effect. Significance was set at 5%. Results: Compared with the placebo group, participants who underwent whole-body vibration showed positive outcomes in terms of mobility (p = 0.014, effect size: 0.115). Contrastingly, no significant differences were observed between the groups in terms of postural control (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Benefits of a single whole-body vibration session were observed on mobility. Using whole-body vibration to improve postural control may require additional sessions. Contraindications typical of aging should be taken into account. Full article

Background/Objectives: Whole body vibration (WBV) is a valuable tool to mitigate physiological adaptations related to age and inactivity. Although significant benefits have been found at the musculoskeletal level, including increased bone mass and reduced muscle atrophy, the underlying biological mechanisms remain largely unknown. Therefore, our study aimed to evaluate the effects of vibratory training on bone tissue in murine models of different age groups by investigating the structural and distribution changes in some crucial biomarkers involved in musculoskeletal homeostasis. Methods: Specifically, 4-, 12-, and 24-month-old mice were trained with a WBV protocol characterized by three series of 2 min and 30 s, interspersed with a recovery period of the same duration, on a 3-weekly frequency for 3 months. At the end of the training, histological and morphometric analyses were conducted, in association with immunohistochemical analysis to investigate changes in the distribution of fibronectin type III domain-containing protein 5 (FNDC5), NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4), and sirtuin 1 (SIRT1). Results: Our preliminary results showed that WBV improves musculoskeletal health by preserving bone architecture and promoting up-regulation of FNDC5 and SIRT1 and down-regulation of NOX4. Conclusions: Our study confirms vibratory training as a viable alternative to counter musculoskeletal decline in elderly and/or sedentary subjects. Further investigations should be conducted to deepen knowledge in this field and explore the role of other molecular mediators in physiological adaptations to vibration. Full article

Microcirculation is an essential system that regulates oxygen and nutrients to cells and tissues in response to various environmental stimuli and pathophysiological conditions. Diabetes mellitus can cause microvascular complications including nephropathy, neuropathy, and retinopathy. The pathogenesis of microvascular dysfunction in diabetes is associated with hyperglycemia and the result of an interplay of various factors. Research studies have demonstrated that functional microvascular dysfunction appears much earlier than structural alterations in vasculature in diabetes. This finding of the progression from microvascular dysfunction to macrovascular disease establishes a foundation for the screening and early diagnosis of diabetes by assessing the microvascular function. This comprehensive review discusses technologies (laser Doppler, transcutaneous oximetry, infrared thermography and near-infrared spectroscopy) with computational methods (linear (time and frequency domains), nonlinear and machine learning approaches) for diagnosing microvascular dysfunction in diabetes. Pathophysiological changes of microvascular dysfunction leading to impaired vasomotion and blood flow oscillations in diabetes are reviewed. Recent findings in managing microvascular dysfunction using lifestyle modifications and force-based modulations are evaluated. A consensus endorsed by the American Diabetes Association has been reached that an effective exercise program would greatly slow down the progression of microvascular dysfunction and its impact on diabetic foot ulcers, muscle fatigue and weakness and peripheral neuropathy. However, it is imperative to determine the dose–response relationship of exercise and microvascular responses in patients with diabetes. Research studies have demonstrated that local vibration and whole-body vibration can improve microcirculation in various pathological conditions, including diabetes. Due to the complex nature of microvascular regulation, various computational methods have been developed to shed light on the influence of diabetes on microvascular dysfunction. This comprehensive review will contribute to the diagnosis and management of microvascular dysfunction in diabetes. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study investigated the impacts of a 12-week training program on kinetic parameters during landings in non-professional recreational athletes. Methods: Fifty-seven non-elite recreational athletes performed three unilateral-landing trials from a 30 cm high structure on a force platform. The following outcome measures were analyzed: the ground reaction forces at initial ground contact (PF1) and the highest value (PF2), impulse (change in the moment of force during landing), stabilization time, and ankle and knee accelerations. The ground reaction forces, momentum, and accelerations were evaluated in the vertical, medio-lateral, and anteroposterior axes. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups. The experimental group (EG) underwent a 12-week intervention, three times per week, consisting of various exercises, such as strength, eccentric, proprioceptive, whole-body vibration (WBV), and neuromuscular exercises. After 12 weeks, the same outcome measures were analyzed. Results: The effects of the training program on vertical ground reaction forces were not clear (0.3% and 0.9%, respectively). Medio-lateral (64.8%, d = 0.51) and anteroposterior (43.9%, d = 1.34) forces were probably reduced due to the training program. The stabilization time was also reduced in the experimental group (44.2%). The training program most likely decreased the vertical impulse (47.3%, d = −1.56), whereas the total ankle acceleration increased (18.4%, d = 0.79). Conclusions: The findings reveal significant improvements in neuromuscular control and stability during landings, specifically demonstrating reduced medio-lateral forces, vertical momentum, and acceleration during monopodal landings. This study focuses on the importance of proper landing techniques in minimizing the risk of knee injuries, emphasizing the falling strategy’s role in injury prevention. Full article

The positive effects of whole-body vibration exercise in rehabilitation, sport, fitness and preventive medicine have led to a proliferation of vibrating platforms. However, discrepancies have been claimed between the manufacturers’ vibration parameters and the vibration applied by the platforms. In addition, the dimensions, materials and motors used in their manufacture mean that each platform behaves differently. These factors can influence their transmission to the human body and, consequently, their effects. Thus, measured vibration parameters were recommended to report the vibration parameters as accurately as possible. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the feasibility of a large vibration platform. Measurements of vibration parameters and their transmission were added. These parameters were measured using six accelerometers (platform, ankle, knee, hip, third lumbar vertebra, and head) throughout five postures (toe-standing, erect, high squat, deep squat, and lunge) and three vibration frequencies (20 Hz, 25 Hz, and 30 Hz). On the platform, peak accelerations of 1 ± 0.2 g, displacements of 1 ± 0.1 mm at 20 Hz and 25 Hz and 0.6 mm at 30 Hz, and a frequency from the setting of +0.5 Hz were obtained. In the human body, peak accelerations can exceed 2 g, and these transmissibility amplifications were found at the ankles and knees. However, at the hip, accelerations plummet and transmissibility attenuation occurs all the way to the head. The signal purity was highly satisfactory, although at the hip and third lumbar vertebra when adopting the toe-standing and lunge, some less satisfactory results were found—especially at 20 Hz and 30 Hz. Present data indicate that the long vibration platform can be used for exercise and health in a safe way, although its specific behaviours have to be taken into account in order to optimise its applicability. Full article

Background: Chronic Ankle Instability (CAI) is a common condition characterized by repeated episodes of ankle “giving way” and impaired balance, leading to functional limitations. Various rehabilitation techniques, including balance training, proprioceptive exercises, whole-body vibration (WBV), and novel approaches like stroboscopic vision, are used to address these deficits. This review evaluates the effectiveness of different rehabilitation interventions for CAI management. Methods: A review was conducted by analyzing 11 randomized controlled trials that investigated the impact of balance and proprioceptive training programs on CAI. The primary outcomes assessed were the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT), Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT), and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM). Methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro scale, and the risk of bias was evaluated with the ROB 2 tool. Results: All rehabilitation interventions demonstrated significant improvements in SEBT, CAIT, and FAAM scores. However, no single intervention was found to be consistently superior. Traditional balance training, strength exercises, BAPS, and WBV all provided meaningful functional gains. Stroboscopic vision training showed similar effectiveness compared to conventional approaches. The evidence supports a combination of balance and strength training for optimal recovery. Conclusions: Balance and proprioceptive exercises are effective in managing CAI, with improvements in both dynamic stability and subjective outcomes. No intervention stands out as the best, but personalized programs incorporating various methods are recommended. Future research should explore the long-term effects and potential synergies of combined interventions. Full article

Whole body vibration (WBV) is an innovative exercise mimetic that utilizes a vibrating platform to transmit mechanical vibrations throughout the body. WBV has been a popular area of research in recent years due to its potential physiological and therapeutic benefits in both health and disease. The utility of WBV is rooted in the various parameters (i.e., frequency, amplitude, duration) that affect the overall dose of vibration delivered to the body. Each type of WBV, coupled with these aforementioned parameters, should be considered when evaluating the use of WBV in the clinical setting. Thus, the purpose of this review is to provide an overview of recent literature detailing the different types of WBV, the various parameters that contribute to WBV efficacy, and the evidence of WBV in metabolic disease. A systematic search was conducted using Medline, Embase, Cochrane, CINAHL, and PubMed. All types of study designs were considered, with exclusions made for animal studies, duplicates, and study protocols without data. Thirty-four studies were included. In conclusion, as a modern exercise mimetic with therapeutic potential for metabolic diseases, understanding the interplay between the types and dosing of WBV is critical for determining its utility and efficacy. Further studies are certainly needed to elucidate the full therapeutic potential of WBV in metabolic diseases. Full article