Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation - Volume 32, issue 4

Authors: Zemková, Erika | Poór, Oliver | Jeleň, Michal

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The asymmetric loading of trunk muscles in sports like golf or tennis may cause side-to-side imbalances in rotational muscle strength and endurance. Such imbalances may be compounded by the presence of low back pain (LBP) and related injuries. However, trunk rotational power is a better predictor of athlete performance, and therefore its ability to reveal these asymmetries/dysbalances should be investigated. OBJECTIVE: This study compares peak and mean values of power during trunk rotations on the dominant and non-dominant side in golfers, ice-hockey players, tennis players, and an age-matched control group of fit individuals. …METHODS: Groups of 17 golfers, 17 ice-hockey players, 21 tennis players, and 39 fit individuals performed standing trunk rotations to each side with a bar weight of 5.5, 10.5, 15.5, and 20 kg placed on the shoulders. Peak power and mean power in the acceleration phase of trunk rotations were measured using the FiTRO Torso Premium system. RESULTS: Peak power and mean power in the acceleration phase of trunk rotations were significantly higher on the dominant (D) than non-dominant (ND) side at weights of 5.5 kg (14 and 14%), 10.5 kg (17 and 14%), 15.5 kg (16 and 15%), and 20 kg (16 and 16%) in ice-hockey players, at 5.5 kg (14 and 13%), 10.5 kg (17 and 14%), and 15.5 kg (15% – only peak power) in tennis players, and at 5.5 kg (17 and 18%) and 10.5 kg (19 and 17%) in golfers. However, their values did not differ significantly at these weights (< 10%) in the age-matched control group. The D/ND ratio was the highest in ice-hockey players (1.18, 1.19), followed by golfers (1.16, 1.17) and finally tennis players (1.12, 1.16). CONCLUSION: Taking into account significantly higher trunk rotational power on the dominant than the non-dominant side in golfers, tennis players and ice-hockey players at lower and/or higher weights and no significant side-to-side differences in a control group of fit individuals, this parameter may be considered specific to their asymmetric loading during trunk rotations. However, whether these asymmetries/dysbalances expressed by the D/ND ratio could also identify the likelihood of LBP, needs to be proven. Show more

Keywords: Golfers, ice-hockey players, muscle power, tennis players, trunk rotations

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-181131

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 529-537, 2019

Authors: Sahin, Hulya Guvenir | Kunduracilar, Zuhal | Sonmezer, Emel | Ayas, Sehri

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Aquatic exercises are often recommended for people with osteoarthritis (OA), however, there is a lack of evidence about the effects of these exercises. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of two different aquatic exercise trainings on cardiopulmonary endurance and emotional status in patients with knee osteoarthritis. METHODS: Eighty-nine patients who had been diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis were divided into three groups as two different aquatic exercise training groups (only lower extremity training vs. lower extremity + upper extremity and trunk exercises) or the control …group. All groups have received the conventional therapy which consisted of hotpack, ultrasound, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), and home exercises. Six-minute walk test (6MWT) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD) were used for assessing cardiopulmonary endurance and emotional status, respectively. RESULTS: Following the treatment, all groups improved in terms of systolic blood pressure, walking distance and total HAD scores. Group 1 showed additional improvements in diastolic blood pressure, heart rate and perceived exertion, while Group 2 showed additional improvements only in perceived exertion. Greater changes before and after the treatment in diastolic blood pressure at rest and following 6MWT, perceived exertion following 6MWT, walking distance, HAD depression scores and HAD anxiety scores were observed in Group 1. CONCLUSIONS: Exercise therapy consisting of only lower extremity exercises in water might be more effective in improving exercise capacity and depression levels in comparison to upper extremity and trunk added exercises or conventional physical therapy. Show more

Keywords: Osteoarthritis, exercise, exercise capacity, emotional status

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-171116

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 539-548, 2019

Authors: Atar, Merve Örücü | Özçakar, Levent | Gençtürk, Zeynep | Aytür, Yeşim

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is one of the probable inflammatory factors stimulating cartilage degradation in osteoarthritis (OA) pathogenesis. OBJECTIVE: To assess ET-1 level in OA and its correlation with radiographic findings, cartilage morphology and clinical parameters. METHODS: One hundred and thirty-nine subjects (89 OA, 50 controls) were included in this cross-sectional study. Both knee and hand joints of the participants were examined using plain radiography and ultrasound imaging by which distal femoral cartilage thickness/grading and second metacarpophalangeal cartilage thickness were assessed. Subjects were evaluated for pain and functional status using visual analogue scale, Western …Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index and Duruöz Hand Index. RESULTS: Serum ET-1 levels were higher in the OA group than the control group. Serum ET-1 levels were not correlated with cartilage thickness in patients with OA. Serum ET-1 levels were not correlated with either pain or other clinical parameters in the knee OA group and in the hand OA group. CONCLUSION: This is the first study evaluating the relationship between serum ET-1 levels and cartilage morphology and clinical parameters, which did not show any conclusive result. Future studies, overcoming the limitations of this study, might provide a better understanding of the role of ET-1 in the pathogenesis of OA. Show more

Keywords: Osteoarthritis, knee, hand, endothelin-1, ultrasound, cartilage

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-181326

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 549-554, 2019

Authors: Gaowgzeh, Riziq Allah Mustafa

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Lower back pain (LBP) is often work-related and is commonly observed among nurses. LBP occurs below the 12th rib and above the gluteal fold. In nurses, back disorders are mainly associated with heavy physical activity, such as lifting and moving patients. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the presented work is to evaluate the prevalence, risk factors, and associations of personal characteristics, general health status, and physical load with complaints of LBP. METHODS: In this study, sixty nurses were randomly chosen to answer self-administered questionnaires. The results were analyzed using the SPSS system. …RESULTS: An incidence rate of 61.7% for LBP among nurses was noticed. Among the sites of injury, LBP predominated with a rate of 51.2%. Severity of injury mostly ranged between mild to moderate levels of severity, and 20% of the nurses with LBP were working in obstetrics and gynecology units. Our study also showed that 66.7% of the participating nurses had experienced LBP only after taking on nursing jobs. CONCLUSIONS : The present study demonstrated that nurses working in Jeddah exhibit a high prevalence of lower back pain. In order to reduce the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among nurses, the physical therapist’s role is vital and nurses’ practice of relaxation and stretching exercises in between work schedules is mandatory. Show more

Keywords: Lower back pain, risk factors, nurses, physical work load

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-181218

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 555-560, 2019

Authors: Espí-López, Gemma V. | Inglés, Marta | Ferrando, Andrea Cuello | Serra-Añó, Pilar

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a disorder characterized by chronic widespread pain and muscle soreness. Because of its high prevalence, many therapeutic approaches have been proposed with the aim of improving overall physical function and reducing pain. Since low adherence is one of the major limitations among these patients, treatments that do not interfere with their daily routines, such as KT, would be a feasible option. OBJECTIVE: The main goal of this study was to analyze the effect of Kinesio Tape (KT) on pain, posture, body comfort and quality of life (QoL) in people with FMS. …METHODS: Thirty-five women (between 17 and 70 years of age) with FMS were randomly allocated to two treatment groups, depending on the location of the KT: “Upper trunk group” (UTG) (n = 18) and “Global trunk group” (GTG) (n = 17). The intervention period lasted 3 weeks. Pain, comfort, trunk posture and QoL were assessed before and after the intervention. RESULTS: Both KT treatments were effective in reducing pain and improving neck and shoulder comfort (p < 0.05). The GTG achieved a significant improvement in thoracic comfort (p < 0.05), whereas the UTG experienced a significant improvement in non-dominant side trunk posture and showed a significant improvement in the QoL score (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: GT and UT KT applications have positive effects on patients with FMS and may be considered as a suitable treatment option among this population. Show more

Keywords: Body comfort, fibromyalgia, Kinesio Tape, pain, quality of life

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-171100

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 561-567, 2019

Authors: Uygur, Ayşe Gül | Polat, Sema | Ayvazoğlu, Seda | Yücel, Ahmet Hilmi

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the prerequisite physical features of classical ballet education. METHODS: Students who enrolled and were rejected for the applications of State Conservatory Ballet Main Art Branch in the academic year 2013–2014 and 2014–2015 were compared with their exam results. This study involves defining the physical ability and determining physical fitness by using Eurofit tests including the Flamingo Balance test (FB), Plate Tapping (PT), Sit and Reach (SITR), Standing Broad Jump (SBJ), Handgrip test (HG), Sit Up in 30 Seconds (SU) and Shuttle Run 10 × …5 meter (SR), Heath-Carter somatotyping method and anthropometric measurements which determine ballet students’ body type and physical abilities. Sixty-nine girls between 8–11 years old who applied for ballet education at the State Conservatory Ballet Main Art Branch were included in the study. While the average of age, height and weight measurements of enrolled students were 9.40 ± 0.74 year, 1.38 ± 0.08 m and 30.03 ± 4.73 kg respectively, the same dimensions were found in rejected students, i.e. 9.79 ± 0.94 year, 1.40 ± 0.10 m and 35.59 ± 7.31 kg respectively. RESULTS: Measurements of diameter, circumference and subcutaneous fat were lower (p < 0.05) for enrolled students. The major body type of enrolled students was identified as mesomorphy, whereas the major body type of rejected students was identified as endomorphy. All dimensions of the Eurofit tests, except the strength test, were significantly different in enrolled students (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The parameters used in this study can be convenient in objectively evaluating classical ballet education. Show more

Keywords: Ballet, Eurofit test, somatotype, physical features, physical fitness

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-181173

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 569-578, 2019

Authors: Lim, Wootaek

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Flexibility changes according to stretching intensity have been rarely investigated. I aimed to assess the effect of different stretching intensities on hamstring flexibility by measuring them in a setting similar to real clinical settings. METHODS : Stretching intensities were quantified using an easy method, and participants were grouped according to intensity: 100% (P100), 70% (P70), 40% (P40), and 10% (P10) of maximum voluntary isometric contraction. Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching intensities were measured using a sling system and tension dynamometer. Hamstring flexibility was measured (before; immediately after; and 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15 min after stretching) …using the active knee extension test. Flexibility was compared between subgroups, and longitudinal changes in flexibility were additionally observed in each group. RESULTS: At identical time points, no significant difference in hamstring flexibility was found between the high-intensity (P100) and moderate-intensity (P70, P40) groups. A significant difference was found between P100 and P10 immediately after and 12 and 15 min after stretching. Increased flexibility was maintained until the end in P100 and P70 but not P40 and P10. CONCLUSIONS: High-intensity and moderate-intensity stretching increases flexibility compared with low-intensity stretching. Furthermore, high-intensity stretching was superior to moderate-intensity stretching in terms of maintaining flexibility over time. Show more

Keywords: Dynamometer, flexibility, intensity, PNF, stretching

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-181243

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 579-585, 2019

Authors: Tabatabaiee, Abbas | Ebrahimi-Takamjani, Ismail | Ahmadi, Amir | Sarrafzadeh, Javad | Emrani, Anita

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Latent myofascial trigger point (LMTP) is a small hypersensitive area in skeletal muscles that becomes painful under compression or stimulation. LMTPs are relevant for various musculoskeletal disorders. Although several treatments have been introduced to treat LMTP, the most efficient one is yet to be found. OBJECTIVE: The main purpose of the present study was to compare pressure release, phonophoresis of betamethasone and dry needling on the upper trapezius latent myofascial trigger point. METHODS: Sixty participants (mean ± SD age, 23.6 ± 2.1 y), with at least …one latent myofascial trigger point in the upper trapezius muscle, participated in this study. Subjects were randomly divided into three groups (pressure release, phonophoresis with betamethasone and dry needling groups) for two weeks. Pain intensity, pain pressure threshold and active cervical range of motion were assessed. RESULTS: Significant pain decrease, active cervical range of motion and pain pressure threshold increase were observed in the three groups (p < 0.001). The dry needling and phonophoresis groups reported more significant improvement compared to the pressure release group (p < 0.001). There was no difference between the dry needling and phonophoresis groups. CONCLUSIONS: Considering the significant, positive effects of all three methods, dry needling and phonophoresis seem to be more effective than pressure release. Show more

Keywords: Trigger point, trapezius muscle, phonophoresis, betamethasone, needles

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-181302

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 587-594, 2019

Authors: Cho, Juchul | Lee, Eunsang | Lee, Seungwon

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Although commonly utilized treatments, no study has directly compared the effectiveness of joint mobilization and stabilization exercise in individuals with forward head posture (FHP). OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the effects of upper cervical and upper thoracic spine mobilization versus deep cervical flexors exercise (DCFE) in individuals with FHP. METHODS: Thirty-one participants with FHP were randomized into the mobilization (n = 15) or exercise (n = 16) group. The treatment period was 4 weeks with follow-up assessment at 4 weeks and 6 …weeks after the initial examination. Outcomes assessed included the craniovertebral angle (CVA), numeric pain rating scale (NPRS), respiratory function, and the global rating of change (GRC). RESULTS: Participants in the mobilization group demonstrated significant improvements (p < 0.05) in CVA, NPRS, and respiratory function, as compared to those in the exercise group. In addition, 9 of 15 (60%) participants in the mobilization group, as compared to 4 of 16 participants (25%) in the exercise group, had a GRC score of + 4 or higher. CONCLUSIONS: The combination of upper cervical and upper thoracic spine mobilization indicated better overall short-term outcomes in CVA, NPRS, respiratory function, and GRC compared with DCFE in individuals with FHP. Show more

Keywords: Forward head posture, mobilization, exercise, neck pain, respiration

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-181228

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 595-602, 2019

Authors: La Touche, Roy | Pérez-Fernández, Marcos | Barrera-Marchessi, Ignacio | López-de-Uralde-Villanueva, Ibai | Villafañe, Jorge Hugo | Prieto-Aldana, María | Suso-Martí, Luis | Paris-Alemany, Alba

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a public health problem that causes high levels of disability. Psychological and physical factors could play a critical role in the disability perception of patients. OBJECTIVE: The objective was to identify the psychological and physical factors associated with CLBP disability in patients and assess differences between asymptomatic subjects and CLBP patients through physical tests and psychological self-reports. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed. Total sample of 80 participants were classified into two groups: patients with CLBP (n = 49) and asymptomatic …subjects (i.e. the control group) (n = 31). The physical tests included lower back range of motion (LBROM), postural stability, lower back strength (LBS), and lumbopelvic motor control tests. The psychological self-reports included low back disability (Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire), self-efficacy, pain catastrophizing, and pain-related fear. RESULTS: Self-efficacy and LBS displayed moderate negative correlations with disability in patients with CLBP (R = - 0.47 and - 0.40, respectively). Disability was predicted by self-efficacy and LBROM (β = - 0.45 and - 033 respectively, p < 0.01), explaining 30% of the variance in these patients. The comparative analysis showed statistically significant differences between groups in the physical/psychological variables (p < 0.01); however, the effect-sizes were small for all these variables. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study highlight the relevance of psychological and physical factors in CLBP patient disability. Evaluation and treatment in CLBP patients should take these factors into account. Show more

Keywords: Low back pain, chronic pain, disability, range of motion, self-efficacy

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-181269

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 603-611, 2019