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Comparative Study of Grip Strength in Different Positions of Shoulder and Elbow with Wrist in Neutral and Extension Positions
Abstract
This study investigated the effect of shoulder, elbow positions with respect to wrist positioned in neutral and in extension in 25 males and 25 females. A hydraulic dynamometer was used to measure the grip strength in six testing positions with respect to wrist positioned in neutral and in extension. The six grip strength tests consisted of three positions in which the elbow was maintained in full extension with varying degrees of shoulder flexion (00, 900 and 1800) and other three positions where the elbow was maintained in 900 flexion combined with varying degrees of shoulder flexion (00, 900 and 1800). Only the dominant hand was tested. The highest mean grip strength score was recorded when the shoulder was positioned in 1800 of flexion with elbow in complete extension with respect to wrist being positioned in neutral (30.20 ± 8.74) and wrist in extension (25.44 ± 7.51), while the lowest mean grip strength score was recorded when shoulder was positioned in 1800 flexion with elbow 900 flexion with respect to wrist being positioned in neutral (21.92 ± 7.45) and wrist in extension (19.40 ± 6.21). Finally grip strength differed significantly for both sexes and study showed males have greater grip strength than females with respect to wrist being positioned in neutral and in extension. In essence, our study affirms that various joint positions can affect grip strength, especially elbow and shoulder joints with respect to wrist positions (neutral and extension). Clinically useful information may be derived from these findings and are valuable in evaluation and rehabilitation training of hand injured patients
... Mathiowetz và cộng sự đã chỉ ra rằng khi khuỷu tay gập 90 o sức mạnh cầm nắm đạt cao hơn so với khi khuỷu tay trung tính [6]. Tuy nhiên, Balogun và cộng sự (2009) và Tayyari (2018) lại chỉ ra rằng sức mạnh cầm nắm đạt tối đa khi khuỷu tay duỗi hoàn toàn so với gập khuỷu tay [1] [4]. Tầm vận động của cổ tay là một biến số khác ảnh hưởng đến hiệu suất của sức mạnh cầm nắm. ...
... Kết quả của nghiên cứu của chúng tôi cho thấy sức mạnh cầm nắm trung bình cao nhất được ghi nhận khi khuỷu tay duỗi hoàn toàn với cổ tay ở vị trí trung tính ở cả tay thuận và tay không thuận. Kết quả của nghiên cứu chúng tôi phù hợp với các nghiên cứu của Parvatikar cùng cộng sự (2009) và Tarryari (2018) đã công bố [1] [4]. Tayyari đã chỉ ra duỗi khuỷu tay có liên quan đến sức mạnh tay nắm cao hơn đáng kể so với gập khuỷu tay. ...
... Tayyari đã chỉ ra duỗi khuỷu tay có liên quan đến sức mạnh tay nắm cao hơn đáng kể so với gập khuỷu tay. Hơn nữa, cường độ cầm nắm được ghi lại ở vị trí gập khuỷu tay 90° cao hơn đáng kể so với các giá trị thu được ở các vị trí gập khuỷu tay 30°, 60° và 120° [4]. ...
Mở đầu: Sức mạnh cầm nắm (Grip strength) là một phần của “lực cơ” chi trên cần thiết được sử dụng trong việc kéo hay cầm nắm một vật. Đánh giá chính xác về sức mạnh cầm nắm có tầm quan trọng trong việc xác định hiệu quả chương trình điều trị đến bệnh nhân. Khi các nghiên cứu về ảnh hưởng của vị trí khuỷu tay và cổ tay đối với sức mạnh cầm nắm vẫn còn nhiều ý kiến khác nhau. Mục tiêu: Nghiên cứu nhằm đánh giá ảnh hưởng của vị trí khớp khuỷu tay và cổ tay đến sức mạnh cầm nắm của bàn tay và vị trí thuận lợi để cải thiện chức năng cầm nắm của người từ 20 đến 39 tuổi. Đối tượng và phương pháp nghiên cứu: Nghiên cứu này bao gồm 178 đối tượng (110 nam và 68 nữ) bình thường khỏe mạnh từ 20 – 39 tuổi tại trường Đại học Quốc tế Hồng Bàng. Lực kế đo lực tay Jamar Dynamometer điều chỉnh tiêu chuẩn đã được sử dụng để đo sức mạnh cầm nắm tại các vị trí khác nhau của khuỷu tay và cổ tay. Các thông tin về chỉ số nhân trắc học được thu thập bằng cách đo lường trực tiếp. Kết quả: Nghiên cứu cho thấy vị trí khuỷu tay và cổ tay có tác động đến sức mạnh cầm nắm của bàn tay khi xem xét riêng (p<0,001). Mô hình ANOVA cho thấy sự khác biệt (p<0,001) của sức mạnh cầm nắm khi kết hợp khuỷu tay ở vị trí gập 90o và duỗi hoàn toàn với cổ tay gập 30o và cổ tay trung tính. Kết luận: Nghiên cứu này cho thấy các tác động khác nhau đến sức mạnh khi con người sử dụng bàn tay tại các vị trí khuỷu tay và cổ tay khác nhau để cầm nắm. Sức mạnh cầm nắm ở tay thuận là tối đa với khuỷu tay duỗi hoàn toàn và cổ tay ở trạng thái trung tính của người từ 20 đến 39 tuổi.
... Handgrip strength is also affected by the arm's anatomical position. Various studies have focused on the influence of shoulder positioning angle and the role of different elbow angles on the handgrip force [19][20][21]. Furthermore, Alkurdi and Dweiri have investigated the effect of dif-ferent arm anatomical positions on the handgrip strength for 20 male subjects only while the subjects were in standing posture [22]. ...
... Furthermore, in Kim et al. [15] study, the measurement was obtained while the participant was standing upright with their shoulders in a neutral position, the elbow is fully extended, and the arms are adducted. It has been established in the literature that different body posture and hand anatomical positions have an impact on the obtained handgrip force values [18][19][20][21][22]. Such a difference in muscle strength explained the variation in the ability to perform the daily basis activities between males and females. ...
... This is in consistent with previous studies conducted to find the effect of different arm position on handgrip strength. The effect of the shoulder and elbow positions on grip strength with respect to wrist positioned in neutral and in extension during six different positions was studied for 50 healthy young students aged 18-25 years old [19]. These positions were divided into two groups, for the first group the elbow was maintained at full extension while varying the shoulder flexion angle for 0º, 90º, and 180º. ...
Background:
Handgrip or Grip strength (GS) is a common method used to evaluate muscle strength and affected by different factors, including age, gender, and arm's positions.
Objective:
This study aims to investigate the effect of both the gender and arm's positions on the handgrip strength and the fatigue resistance (FR), which is the time needed for the handgrip strength to drop to 75% (FR75), 50% (FR50), and 25% (FR25) of its maximum strength during sustained maximal handgrip effort.
Material and methods:
In this experimental study, 59 male and 41 female participants were asked to grip forcefully on a dynamometer for the longest period. GS and FR75, FR50, and FR25 values were recorded for 7 different arm positions. Factorial ANOVA was used to find the main effect of gender and position and the interaction between them. Sidak and Tukey's HSD tests were used to find the gender and arm position effects, respectively.
Results:
The results showed a significant effect for gender and arm position on GS and FR and a significant interaction effect for GS that was significantly higher in males than females for all positions. The gender difference in FR depends on arm's positions and the level at which the FR was measured. GS was higher when arm adduction with 90 ͦ forward at the elbow as compared to arm abduction with 180 ͦ at the shoulder and 90 ͦ at the elbow.
Conclusion:
The results confirmed the significant effect of the gender and arm's positions on the maximal handgrip strength and fatigue resistance during sustained maximal handgrip effort.
... In these studies, effects of the positional changes in the forearm (Richards et al., 1996), elbow (Kumar, Parmar, Ahmed, Kar, & Harper, 2008;Ng & Fan, 2001), and shoulder joints (Dabholkar, Pal, & Yardi, 2015;Kattel et al., 1996) have been investigated. In addition, GS variations due to combined movements of more than two upper extremity joints (Kong, 2014;Parvatikar & Mukkannavar, 2009) and postural changes (Richards, 1997) have also been searched. ...
... It was suggested that variations in the level of arousal due to altered peripheral impulses might reflexively or directly affect the mechanisms involved in the production of grip force (Balogun, Akomolafe, & Amusa, 1991;Richards, 1997). But, methodological differences among these studies, apparently insufficient number of subjects (Kattel et al., 1996;Roman-Liu & Tokarski, 2002), testing only one side of body (Kong, 2014;Parvatikar & Mukkannavar, 2009), analyzing performances of both sexes together (Mathiowetz, Rennells, & Donahoe, 1985;Ng & Fan, 2001), and inclusion of subjects belonging to only a particular occupational category (Balogun et al., 1991;Kuzala & Vargo, 1992) (Dabholkar et al., 2015;Kong, 2014;Parvatikar & Mukkannavar, 2009). The general result of these studies is that GS performance can change in response to variations in shoulder position even when a particular elbow, forearm and wrist geometry, and body posture are maintained. ...
... It was suggested that variations in the level of arousal due to altered peripheral impulses might reflexively or directly affect the mechanisms involved in the production of grip force (Balogun, Akomolafe, & Amusa, 1991;Richards, 1997). But, methodological differences among these studies, apparently insufficient number of subjects (Kattel et al., 1996;Roman-Liu & Tokarski, 2002), testing only one side of body (Kong, 2014;Parvatikar & Mukkannavar, 2009), analyzing performances of both sexes together (Mathiowetz, Rennells, & Donahoe, 1985;Ng & Fan, 2001), and inclusion of subjects belonging to only a particular occupational category (Balogun et al., 1991;Kuzala & Vargo, 1992) (Dabholkar et al., 2015;Kong, 2014;Parvatikar & Mukkannavar, 2009). The general result of these studies is that GS performance can change in response to variations in shoulder position even when a particular elbow, forearm and wrist geometry, and body posture are maintained. ...
Grip strength (GS) variability due to positional changes in the upper extremity joints is of importance while designing workstations and work methods. This study was conducted to analyze the GS variations due to positional changes at shoulder joint when some important variables were under control. The GSs of dominant and nondominant hands were measured in eight shoulder (0°, 45°, 90°, and 135° of flexion and abduction) and standard test positions (STP). One hundred and thirteen subjects 20–30 years old completed the study. At the dominant side, no significant difference was observed in the pairwise comparisons between STP and the others. Maximum and minimum GSs were obtained in 0° abduction and 45° flexion and abduction, respectively. At the nondominant side, GSs were significantly lower (p < 0.001) in the corresponding test positions and demonstrated more variability. The findings of this study can contribute to the available knowledge to guide occupational ergonomists in their practices.
... Grip strength has been widely used in evaluating the integrated performances of muscles in orthopedics, rehabilitation and ergonomics [1]. It is widely accepted that, grip and pinch strength measurements provide an objective index of the functional integrity of the upper extremity [2] and in clinical settings as an indicator of disease activity [3]. Reliable and valid evaluation of hand strength is of importance in determining the effectiveness of different treatment strategies or effects of different procedures. ...
... American society of hand therapist suggested a standardized testing protocol for handgrip strength in which subject is seated with the shoulder adducted and neutrally rotated, the elbow flexed at 90 0 and forearm in neutral and the wrist between 0 0 and 30 0 degrees extension and between 0 0 and 15 0 ulnar deviation [2].Standardized grip strength testing procedures have been recommended to provide even greater objectivity of measurement. In a clinical setting, however, there are a number of reasons why it may be impossible to follow standardized testing procedures, such as patient's inability to tolerate an upright position or the presence of contractures in upper extremity joints [3]. However, study findings of the optimal wrist position to facilitate grip strength are equivocal. ...
... The flexor digitorumprofundus crosses many joints like the wrist, the metacarpophalangeal, proximal inter-phalangeal and distal interphalangeal joints leading to increase in the length of its elements beyond optimum levels. Therefore, decreased grip force at a deviated wrist position may be primarily caused by the decreased force production capability of the flexor digitorum profunds [3]. In this study, there was least significance given to forearm rotation on grip strength because as dynamic testing demonstrated no difference in grip strength when the forearm rotated between 70 0 supination and 70 0 pronation [12]. ...
Background and Objective: Grip and pinch strength measurements provide an objective index of the functional integrity of the upper extremity. Hand strength evaluation is importance in determining the effectiveness of different treatment strategies or effects of different procedures. As studies on the effect of elbow and wrist positions on grip strength remain controversial, the present study aimed to find out the effect of elbow and wrist joint positions on grip strength and the favorable and advantageous position to improve grasp function. Method: This study included 144 healthy normal subjects with 13 males and 131 females. A standard adjustable hydraulic hand dynamometer was used for measuring grip strength of various positions of elbow and wrist. Result: The result of the study showed that the elbow and wrist positions had impact on the grip strength when considered individually (p<.01). But the interaction effect of these two different positions could not able to show any significant difference. Conclusion: Grip strength was maximum with elbow in full extension and wrist in neutral. The changes in wrist position on grip strength were observed with variations in elbow and wrist positions.
... Wrist position can affect the grip and hands strength so that in wrist flexion (common hand problem in cerebral palsy) reduction in hand strength is significant. The American Society of Hand Therapists noted that in 0 to 35 degrees of wrist extension, strength is greater than other positions (12)(13)(14). Grip, pinch, and dexterity are the main functions of hands and support the daily activities; if these performances are disrupted due to neuromuscular disorders such as CP, child's performance is reduced in activities such as homework, self-care and the interact with peers (7). Hand function is necessary to interact with the environment and discovering the world. ...
... Grip strength is the force generated by the thumb and other fingers required in different functional activities of daily living (44). An objective index assesses functional integrity of the upper extremity (14). CP makes muscle weakness (or muscle imbalance) and restriction in active ROM, that could be a barrier to the functional use of hands (6,7,9,14). ...
... An objective index assesses functional integrity of the upper extremity (14). CP makes muscle weakness (or muscle imbalance) and restriction in active ROM, that could be a barrier to the functional use of hands (6,7,9,14). In children with CP, wrist flexion reduces grip strength about 60%. ...
Objective:
Kinesio taping is a relatively new technique, which uses in rehabilitation of neurologic diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Kinesio taping on hand grip and active range of motion of hand in children with cerebral palsy (CP).
Materials and methods:
In this experimental study with pre-test and three post-tests, 32 children with CP randomly were placed in experimental (n=17) and control group (n=15).Kinesio taping was applied on dorsum of forearm and hand. Evaluation was performed initially, two days after taping and two days after tape removal. Goniometer was used to evaluate active range of motion of wrist extension. In addition, vigorimeter was used to evaluate of grip strength.
Results:
In pre-test, there was no difference between groups but in post-tests; initially after application of taping with P<0.05, two days after application of taping with P<0.05 and follow-up (two days after removed taping) with P<0.05 were significant differences between trial and control group.
Conclusion:
Kinesio taping in neurorehabilitation of children with CP can be a useful option to promote power or grip strength and active range of motion of wrist and thumb.
... Some studies have been conducted to investigate the effect of arm anatomical position on handgrip strength [32,41,42]. For instance, Parvatikar et al. [42] studied the effect of the shoulder and elbow positions on grip strength for healthy young students. ...
... Some studies have been conducted to investigate the effect of arm anatomical position on handgrip strength [32,41,42]. For instance, Parvatikar et al. [42] studied the effect of the shoulder and elbow positions on grip strength for healthy young students. In their study, the highest mean grip strength was reported when the shoulder was positioned in 180° of flexion and the elbow with full extension. ...
Many studies have studied the relationships between handgrip strength and different Anthropometric variables. However, the hand anatomical position when measuring the handgrip strength was not clear in many studies. This study aims to investigate the relationship between the anthropometric measurements and the handgrip strength at different anatomical positions of the arm among young individuals. 59 young males and 41 females were asked to squeeze the hand dynamometer to their maximum capacity. The maximum handgrip force was recorded for 7 different arm anatomical positions. Using SPSS, an Independent student's t-test was used to compare male and female groups. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used to determine the correlations between handgrip strength and the anthropometric measurements, weight, and BMI at different arm anatomical positions. Furthermore, the dominance weight was computed to determine the most important predictors of grip strength. Significant correlation between handgrip strength and height and weight at all positions and with hand length for all positions except when the arm was abducted and extended 180 ͦ at the shoulder joint and 180 ͦ at the elbow joint. Arm length, forearm length and handbreadth were also correlated to handgrip strength at three positions, when the arm was adducted with 90 ͦ forward at the elbow joint, when the Arm was abducted with 90 ͦ at the shoulder joint and 180 ͦ at the elbow, and when the arm was abducted with 90 ͦ at the shoulder joint and 90 ͦ at the elbow joint with the forearm perpendicular to the frontal plane. However, these correlations were different when males and females were considered separately. Furthermore, the results showed that the height followed by hand length had the highest prediction power of handgrip strength among young adults. The current results showed the importance of considering the different anatomical positions of the arm when studying the relationship between anthropometric measurements and hand grip strength.
... Before the second ISWT, oxygen saturation and heart rate (Pulse Oximeter CMS50F; Contec, Qinhuangdao, China) were checked to ensure return to baseline. Rate of perceived exertion (RPE, [6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20], perceived dyspnoea (Borg breathlessness scale, 0-10) and heart rate were recorded immediately upon completion of the ISWT by the operator. Maximum predicted heart rate was calculated as 220 minus age in years. ...
... Participants were asked to squeeze the dynamometer with as much force as possible, with their elbow extended down by their side. 18 ...
The objective of this study was to compare incremental shuttle walking test (ISWT) performance between South Asian and Caucasian British adults, identify predictors of ISWT distance and produce ethnicity-specific reference equations. Data from a mixed gender sample aged 40–75 years from Leicestershire, United Kingdom, were selected for analyses. Analysis of covariance determined differences in ISWT performance between South Asian and Caucasian British ethnic groups. Linear regressions identified predictors of ISWT distance, which determined the reference equations. In total, 144 participants took part in the study (79 South Asian (54 ± 8 years, 71% female) and 65 Caucasian British (58 ± 9 years, 74% female)). Distance walked for the ISWT was shorter for South Asian individuals compared with Caucasian British (451 ± 143 vs. 575 ± 180 m, p < 0.001). The ethnicity-specific reference equations for ISWT distance explained 33–50% of the variance (standard error of the estimate (SEE): 107–119 m) for South Asians and explained 14–58% of the variance (SEE: 121–169 m) for Caucasian British. Ethnicity univariately explained 12.9% of the variance in ISWT distance and was significantly associated with ISWT distance after controlling for age, gender, height, weight, dyspnoea and lung function (B = −70.37; 1 = Caucasian British, 2 = South Asian), uniquely explaining 3.7% of the variance. Predicted values for ISWT performance were lower in South Asian people than in Caucasian British. Ethnicity-specific reference equations should account for this.
... All these include extremely fine, sensitive movements, as well as tasks requiring considerable force. 1 Reaction time, aiming, hand and arm stability are few of the unique abilities of human hand. 2 Hand grip strength is a widely explored component of hand function. 3 Handgrip fits into the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) domain of 'body function and structure'. Measuring hand function is one of the most fundamental for any evaluation. ...
... 4 Handgrip strength is an indicator of the efficacy of various treatment strategies for the hand. 5 It also provides an objective index of the functional integrity of the upper extremity, 3 and an important indicator of parameters like nutritional status and bone mineral content. 5 Grip strength has also been shown to predict the general body strength, body cell mass depletion, postoperative complications, premature mortality, early onset of disability and functional decline. ...
... Subsequently, the protocol was modified to include a variant of position, performing it with the shoulder in 90°flexion and elbow extended to 0°, a position that has been used in previous studies, compared to the standard position [20,21]. This position was chosen because patients with CKD experience conditions that affect proximal strength, both in the upper and lower extremities. ...
Context: Patients with chronic kidney disease are more likely to develop anemia and alteration of calcium and phosphorus concentrations, highlighting the marked muscle deterioration due to increased catabolism and the development of sarcopenia, which directly impacts the deterioration of muscle strength and therefore, functionality. This deterioration has been measured and quantified through the prehensile force; information that may be related to greater functional limitation and loss of independence, generating alterations in well-being and health-related quality of life. Objective: To determine the relationship between health-related quality of life and muscle strength in patients attending the renal unit at the Alma Mater Hospital of Antioquia.Methodology: This study was conducted in a clinical setting, in a Renal Unit in the city of Medellín. It is a quantitative, observational study, cross-sectional design with analytical intention. The population consisted of 47 patients, including 32 men and 15 women. A convenience sample was used, as the conditions for blinding the population during hemodialysis were not met. Data collection included sociodemographic information, quality of life assessment using the KDQOL-36 scale, and measurement of grip strength using the Biometrics system for dynamometry. Grip strength was assessed bilaterally in the standard position, with the elbow flexed, and with the arm flexed and the elbow extended. Results: From a total of 47 patients evaluated, it was found that the manual grip strength with a flexed arm is significantly associated with the physical health dimension of the KDQOL SF 36 renal scale. The manual grip test with an extended arm is also highly associated with the physical health dimension of the KDQOL SF 36 renal scale. Conclusions: The greater the manual grip, the higher the score in the physical health dimension of the KDQOL SF 36 scale, both in the standard position with the elbow flexed at 90° and with the elbow extended at 0°.
... Among the studies included, we found that participants assessed HGS with different body postures and anatomical hand positions, which have an impact on the HGS values obtained [70,71], making it very important to homogenize procedures and determine protocols for evaluating revised hand grip indicators. Nevertheless, in the future, the existing HGS protocols can be easily adapted to incorporate the indicators obtained from the force-time curve. ...
Background: Handgrip strength (HGS) is an indicator of muscular strength, used in the diagnosis of sarcopenia, undernutrition, and physical frailty as well as recovery. Typically, the maximum HGS value is used; however, recent evidence suggests the exploration of new indicators provided based on the force–time curve to achieve a more comprehensive assessment of muscle function. Therefore, the objective was to identify indicators of the HGS profile beyond maximum HGS, based on force–time curves, and to systematize knowledge about their applications to various types of samples, health issues, and physical performance. Methods: A systematic review was performed including studies whose participants’ HGS was assessed with a digital or adapted dynamometer. The outcome measures were HGS profile indicators calculated from the force–time curve. Results: a total of 15 studies were included, and the following indicators were identified: grip fatigue, fatigability index, fatigue rate, fatigue resistance, time to 80% maximal voluntary contraction, plateau coefficient of variability, time to maximum value, T-90%, release rate, power factor, grip work, average integrated area, endurance, cycle duration, time between cycles, maximum and minimum force–velocity, rate of grip force, final force, inflection point, integrated area, submaximal control, and response time. Conclusions: Various indicators based on the force–time curve can be assessed through digital or adapted dynamometers. Future research should analyze these indicators to understand their implications for muscle function assessment, to standardize evaluation procedures, to identify clinically relevant measures, and to clarify their implications in clinical practice.
... For example, grip strength is greatest in any shoulder or elbow position when the wrist is in the neutral position. 87 However, wrist neutral position varies between individuals from +7° to −9° extension and +5° to −7° ulnar deviation. 88 Based on laparoscopic studies, the optimal operating table height for endoscopic procedures has been recommended to be approximately 49% the height of the surgeon or that which permits instruments to be held 10 cm below to 10 cm above the elbows. ...
Surgeons have a high rate of work-related musculoskeletal injuries; an area that has received little attention. These injuries result in surgeons performing less efficiently, needing to take time off work, suffering higher rates of burnout, and may ultimately lead surgeons to retire earlier than planned. Otorhinolaryngologists are at particular risk for work-related musculoskeletal injuries. Beyond the clinician, sustaining such injuries can negatively impact patient safety. Ergonomic interventions have been used effectively to reduce work-related musculoskeletal injuries in other professions, yet not in surgery. With traditional teachings of ideal body postures to avoid injury and manual handling training being re-evaluated, it is important to explore evidence based interventions for reducing work-related musculoskeletal injuries in otorhinolaryngologists. New research encourages us to shift the focus away from the traditional one-size-fits-all approach to ergonomics and toward postural recommendations and education that promote a dynamic, individualized approach to avoiding sustained, static and awkward postures.
... This premise is based on the length versus tension relationship curves. 1 The reduction in HGS max observed at +45° and −45° is attributed to decreased mechanical efficiency during the task, as the rate of crossbridge formation is reduced due to the change in length of the finger's superficial and deep flexor muscles. 21 ...
The neurophysiological mechanisms underlying muscle force control for different wrist postures still need to be better understood. To further elucidate these mechanisms, the present study aimed to investigate the effects of wrist posture on the corticospinal excitability by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) of extrinsic (flexor [FCR] and extensor carpi radialis [ECR]) and intrinsic (flexor pollicis brevis (FPB)) muscles at rest and during a submaximal handgrip strength task. Fourteen subjects (24.06 ± 2.28 years) without neurological or motor disorders were included. We assessed how the wrist posture (neutral: 0°; flexed: +45°; extended: −45°) affects maximal handgrip strength (HGSmax) and the motor evoked potentials (MEP) amplitudes during rest and active muscle contractions. HGSmax was higher at 0° (133%) than at −45° (93.6%; p < 0.001) and +45° (73.9%; p < 0.001). MEP amplitudes were higher for the FCR at +45° (83.6%) than at −45° (45.2%; p = 0.019) and at +45° (156%; p < 0.001) and 0° (146%; p = 0.014) than at −45° (106%) at rest and active condition, respectively. Regarding the ECR, the MEP amplitudes were higher at −45° (113%) than at +45° (60.8%; p < 0.001) and 0° (72.6%; p = 0.008), and at −45° (138%) than +45° (96.7%; p = 0.007) also at rest and active conditions, respectively. In contrast, the FPB did not reveal any difference among wrist postures and conditions. Although extrinsic and intrinsic hand muscles exhibit overlapping cortical representations and partially share the same innervation, they can be modulated differently depending on the biomechanical constraints.
... The grip strength estimation is important in determining the efficacy of different treatment strategies of the hand and also plays a significant role in hand rehabilitation program [10][11][12]. Several studies have supported the correlation of handgrip with nutritional status, bone mineral content, hand length, body mass index, age, and upper arm circumference [13][14][15]. There are several methods and instruments used to measure hand grip strength. ...
Background and purpose
Increase or decrease in the carrying angle may affect the functional activity and lead to elbow instability and pain during exercise or activity of daily living. Grip strength is commonly evaluated as a component of hand function in clinical settings as an indicator of disease and functional activity. The objective of this study was to find out correlation of carrying angle with grip strength and anthropometric measurements in healthy young adults.
Methodology
Two hundred three participants (female 121 and male 82) with mean age 22.95 ± 2.11 years were included as per the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Carrying angle was measured by goniometer, and grip strength was measured by handheld dynamometer. Anthropometric data like forearm length and hand span was measured by the measuring tape and ruler scale respectively.
Results
Spearman’s correlation test showed that carrying angle is negatively correlated with grip strength ( r = − 0.18; p < 0.05) and forearm length ( r = − 0.14; p < 0.05) on the left side but no significant correlation on the right side. Body height and carrying angle have negative correlation on the right ( r = − 0.20, p < 0.05) and left sides ( r = − 0.23, p < 0.05).
Conclusion
As the carrying angle increases, grip strength decreases. The height and length of the forearm are inversely related to the carrying angle. Grip strength is directly proportional with forearm length and hand span. Early identification of increased carrying angle will help in the prevention of various complications and identification of biomechanical alteration in sports activities.
... Положбата на испитаникот за време на тестирањето првенствено, позицијата на раката, односно релативната позиција на надлактицата, подлактицата, дланката и прстите, но и положбата на целото тело влијаат врз можноста за манифестирање на максимална сила (Lecturer et al. 2013;De et al. 2011;Oxford 2000;Parvatikar & Mukkannavar 2009;Su et al. 1994). На слика 8 се претставени некои од највообичаените позиции на раката при тестирање, а изборот на позицијата зависи од целта на тестирањето. ...
Instruments for measuring muscle activity must meet the metric characteristics. The isometric dynamometer is an instrument that is easy to handle and can be used for both sports and clinical purposes. There are several models of dynamometers, and their choice depends on their general and technical characteristics, the purpose of testing and the budget. The most common application is the hand dynamometer, which is of great importance for monitoring the grip strength in sports where the action of the flexors in the joints of the fingers of the hand and the wrist is of primary importance, such as: judo, wrestling, gymnastics, tennis, Olympic weightlifting, rock climbing, etc.
... Incisions made from the bottom to the top produced more significant pressure on the neck. In this position, the shoulder angle is flexed to 180°, and the elbow joint angle is fully extended to create the most unyielding grip strength (Parvatikar & Mukkannavar, 2009). The combination of the gripping force and the force of the concentric contraction of the bicep brachial muscle produces intense pressure on the neck. ...
The use of non-penetrating pre-slaughter stunning (NPPSS) in ruminants remains a contentious issue in Indonesia since it is thought to interfere with the bleeding. This paper evaluated the bleeding time (BT), incidence of the false aneurysm (FA), and factors influencing these parameters in 460NPPSS and 50non-NPPSS slaughters in Indonesia. In this research, bodyweight, neck skin fold, sex, incisors condition, stunner strength, door closed-final stunning interval, number of shots, stunning success rate (SSR), stunning final-slaughter interval, broken skull, shooting placement, stunner-men and slaughter-men competencies, incision direction, incision location, BT, and FA were assessed for NPPSS slaughter. The same parameters were also assessed for non-NPPSS except the stunning parameter. The results showed that the BT of the non-NPPSS slaughters (187±47.37 seconds) was faster than that of the NPPSS slaughters, with the BT for the NPPSS dependent upon the level of unconsciousness. The longest BT was found in fully unconscious cattle shot once (304.32±69.76seconds). The risk of FA incidence in non-NPPSS cattle was higher than in the NPPSS cattle. The FA incidence was 2.64 times higher in non-NPPSS cattle than in unconscious NPPSS cattle. The BT of non-NPPSS cattle was affected by FA, whereas the NPPSS cattle were affected by SSR, number of shots, broken skull, and FA incidence. The primary influence factor of FA in non-NPPSS cattle was incision location, whereas the NPPSS cattle were DCFS, incision location, and incision direction. Based on the results of this study, it can be concluded that the use of NPPSS prolongs BT and reduces the risk of FA in the slaughter of Australian Brahman cross cattle
... Children carried out three repetitions, with a 2-min rest between each one, selecting the best of both. 19 Measurements were made with a handheld digital dynamometer (Baseline ® 12-0286). ...
Introduction:
The submaximal tests are used to measure aerobic capacity and correlate with activities of daily living in chronic patients. The 6-minute handbike cycle test (6mhct) was created for non-ambulatory subjects, but there are no reference values to quantify and classify the cardiorespiratory fitness of children in this condition.
Objective (s):
Generate 6mhct reference values and determine predictive variables in a population of Chilean children between 8 and 13 years old.
Materials and methods:
Cross-section study. Sampling for convenience, stratified by age. Evaluation of anthropometric variables, handgrip strength, heart rate (HR), effort perception, and blood pressure were performed, then the 6mhct was applied. Descriptive statistics, Student's t-test and Mann-Whitney U test, correlation coefficient, and regression equation were used to estimate the total revolutions by age, being significant p <0.05.
Results:
Were evaluated 120 children homogeneously distributed by age. The total revolutions performed by boys and girls were 861.4 ± 102.9 and 771.8 ± 90.2 respectively (p<0.001). There was a significant correlation between total revolutions and age (r = 0.52), weight (r=0.29), height (r=0.46), average UULL length (r=0.44), average handgrip strength (r=0.53), peak HR (r=0.67), recovery HR (r=0.44) and HR reserve (r=0.72). The regression equation was established.
Conclusions:
These results can be used as preliminary reference values for the 6mhct in Chilean children from 8 to 13 years old. Handgrip strength, age, peak HR, and HR reserve influenced the performance of the 6mhct. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
... Similarly, Kattel et al. [19] experimented with 0°and 20°o f shoulder abduction and elbow flexions of 90°, 135°and 180°; the best grip force response with the shoulder and wrist was found in a neutral position with the elbow flexed at 135°. Another variant proposed by Parvatikar and Mukkannavar [20] was evaluating handgrip strength with shoulder flexions of 0°, 90°and 180°with the elbow at full extension, as well as with an elbow flexion of 90°combined with the different variations of shoulder flexion. A significant response was found concerning other shoulder-elbow configurations when held with the shoulder flexion at 0°and the elbow fully extended. ...
A study was undertaken in which the handgrip strength in three arm positions above the shoulder was measured to compare handgrip strength when arm support is used and when it is not used. Grip forces were generated in pairs of flexion angles, corresponding to shoulder and elbow at a) 90°-90°, b) 135°-45°, and c) 160°-20°. Thirty-two participants completed the present study; 23 men and 9 women with a median of 23.1 years old and a standard deviation of ± 3.6. A manual handgrip dynamometer (0-90 kg) and an Adjustable Angle Arm Support (AAAS) were used during the data collection. The two-way ANOVA for repeated measurements test indicates a significant effect of the AAAS factor on the handgrip strength, as well as on the AAAS x Angle interaction. However, there is no significant effect of the angle factor on the AAAS factor and the Angle interaction.
... Existe uma ampla variedade de metodologias utilizadas para avaliar a FPM, o que dificulta a padronização efetiva do procedimento (Durward, Baer, & Rowe, 2001). Alguns autores reportam que modificações referentes ao posicionamento do membro superior podem aumentar ou diminuir a FPM (Hanten et al., 1999;Parvatikar & Mukkannavar, 2009). ...
A força de preensão manual (FPM) e a aptidão física funcional (AFF) são indicadores importantes da capacidade funcional do idoso. Este estudo teve como objetivo caracterizar e investigar a relação entre a FPM e AFF em octogenários e nonagenários. A FPM, a AFF, a prática de atividade física auto-reportada e variáveis antropométricas foram avaliados em 124 octogenários e 35 nonagenários, de ambos os géneros do Interior Norte de Portugal. Foram utilizados os testes de Mann-Whitney e o coeficiente de correlação r de Pearson. Numa amostra com elevados níveis de adiposidade total e central (28,34,8 kg/m2 e 97,812,5 cm respetivamente) e fraca AFF ( ˃ 40% no Percentil 10) os homens evidenciaram, comparativamente às mulheres, uma maior FPM (octogenários: ♂ 27,81,3 kgf e ♀ 16,50,5 kgf; nonagenários: ♂ 22,61,5 kgf e ♀ 14,91,5 kgf. Nos octogenários, a FPM apresentou uma correlação significativa com a AFF e nos nonagenários, essa correlação apenas foi significativa no teste de aptidão cardiorrespiratória (r= 0,498, p˂0,01). Os nossos resultados sugerem que melhores valores de FPM estão relacionados com níveis mais elevados de AFF em octogenários e a uma melhor condição cardiorrespiratória em nonagenários.
... It was also found that handgrip strength was higher in male dental students when compared to female counterparts. When considering the literature, a similar observation was made by Parvatikar and Mukkannavar, [15] who found that handgrip strength was different in males and females when the wrist was positioned in either neutral or extended pose. Males were observed to have higher grip than their female counterparts. ...
Background:
Dental professionals are prone to carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and other nerve-related disorders as they perform repetitive wrist work with static physical position for long hours.
Objectives:
To evaluate the relationship of thumb radial abduction angle with handgrip strength, hand dexterity, and CTS susceptibility among Saudi senior dental students and interns. The study also intends to compare thumb radial abduction angle based on the gender.
Methods:
A convenient sample of 100 Saudi dental students and interns participated in the study. Their handgrip strength, dexterity, and thumb radial abduction angle were measured by the use of Jamar dynamometer, nine-hole peg test, and goniometer, respectively. Questionnaires were distributed among the participants to assess CTS susceptibility and its association with thumb radial abduction angle. Regression analysis, Pearson's correlation, and independent t-test were performed to analyze the data.
Results:
A significant correlation between thumb radial abduction angle and handgrip strength was observed. An association of handgrip strength with CTS susceptibility was also found. No significant relationships were drawn considering hand dexterity. Handgrip strength and dexterity were found to be higher in males when compared to females, however, females were observed to be more susceptible to CTS.
Conclusion:
The study concludes a significant association between thumb radial abduction angle and handgrip strength that is further related with CTS. The results of the study can be used as a foundation for several academicians' research in this domain.
... Handgrip strength has been shown to be influenced by different factors, such as gender, age, positions of the shoulder, elbow, forearm and wrist [10][11][12], posture [13,14], as well as grip span and hand span [4,[15][16][17][18]. It is not clear which elbow position is most appropriate for achieving the maximal handgrip strength, owing to inconsistent findings [19][20][21][22][23]. ...
Background and Study Aim: One of the most widely applied methods to assess upper-body strength in children and adolescents is the handgrip strength test. While in adolescents it has been determined which elbow position, and which type of dynamometer are most appropriate for achieving the maximal grip strength, in children is still not clear. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate whether elbow position and the type of dynamometer affect the handgrip strength in children.
Material and Methods: Grip strength was measured by TKK and DynX dynamometers, and their validity and reliability were also analysed. A total of 60 children, 6 to 11 years old, participated in this study, and performed the handgrip strength test with their elbow extended and flexed at 90°.
Results: While using the TKK dynamometer, grip strength was significantly higher when the test was performed with elbow extended, in contrast to those obtained with elbow flexed (14.58±3.04 kg vs 12.97±2.99 kg, p<0.001 for right, and 14.25±3.05 kg vs 12.61±2.99 kg, p<0.001 for left hand). Likewise, when using the DynX dynamometer, the difference between the two elbow positions was smaller but still significant (13.84±3.22 kg vs 13.35±3.01 kg, p=0.035 for right, and 13.35±2.95 kg vs 12.77±2.96 kg, p=0.003 for left hand).
Conclusions: Both dynamometers provided sufficient results in terms of their reliability and the TKK dynamometer showed to be more valid. Performing the handgrip strength test with elbow extended appears to be the most appropriate position in order to obtain maximal results in children.
... 14,15 Hand grip strength was more in males as compared with females in both dominant and nondominant hands, and this could be due to physiological differences between them. 16,17 The study also investigated the correlation between hand grip strength and anthropometric variables like height, weight, BMI, and hand dimensions (hand length and hand breadth) in both groups (males and females) in both dominant and nondominant sides. ...
... Tanto de pie como sentados, los esquiadores náuticos extienden los codos para aprovechar la relación longitud-tensión de los músculos del antebrazo implicados en la generación de la fuerza de agarre (Parvatikar & Mukkannavar, 2009), optimizando aspectos técnicos como el denominado cruce de olas o el deslizamiento fluido. Esquiando de pie, el gran estrés fisiológico sobre los flexores de antebrazo puede atenuarse mediante una contracción isométrica sostenida del recto abdominal, trapecio, dorsal ancho, masa común de erectores de la columna, abdominales, psoas-iliaco, glúteo mayor y gemelos (Leggett et al., 1996). ...
Resumen En el esquí náutico, las personas que experimentan paraplejía adoptan una posición sentada, y la fuerza de prensión manual (FPM) les permite agarrar el palonier y ejecutar las pasadas en la disciplina de slalom. Este estu-dio evaluó los efectos inmediatos en la FPM máxima tras la práctica de esquí náutico adaptado, aspecto aún des-conocido. En mano dominante se midió la FPM máxima mediante dinamometría manual tras 14 entrenamien-tos de cuatro esquiadores náuticos varones con lesión medular completa que participaron en un campeona-to nacional, con edad media (desviación estándar) de 37.2 (7.3) años y 2.5 (1.3) años de experiencia en esquí náutico. Tras la práctica, la FPM máxima se redujo (pre-entrenamiento: 48.4 (3.6) kg; post-entrenamiento: 39.1 (8.7) kg) (p < 0.001), con un gran tamaño del efecto (d z de Cohen > 1.15). Se observó la menor disminución por-centual, de un 9.8 (8.3)%, para el único esquiador con nivel avanzado y el de mayor FPM máxima pre-entrena-miento, mientras el esquiador con menor FPM máxima pre-entrenamiento y un nivel intermedio mostró una reducción del 38.9 (10.6)%. En el conjunto de entrena-mientos de los cuatro esquiadores, la reducción de FPM máxima tras un tiempo de agarre medio de 20.5 min fue del 18.5%, sin correlación entre estas variables (r = 0.49, p = 0.076). La práctica de esquí náutico sentado en la disciplina de slalom por personas que experimentan paraplejia conlleva una disminución en la FPM máxima de la mano dominante, pudiendo influir el nivel com-petitivo y la condición física de los esquiadores en el porcentaje de reducción. Palabras clave: lesión medular, deportes adaptados, di-namometría, fuerza isométrica máxima, fatiga muscular. Abstract In water skiing, people who experience paraplegia ski in a sitting position, and they rely on hand grip strength (HGS) to grab the tow rope handle and run slalom passes. This study evaluated the immediate effects on maximum HGS after the practice of disabled water skiing, a still unknown aspect. In the dominant hand, maximum HGS was measured by hand-grip dynamometry after 14 practices of four male water skiers with complete spinal cord injury participating in a national championship, with mean age (standard deviation) of 37.2 (7.3) years and 2.5 (1.3) years of experience in water skiing. After practice, maximum HGS was reduced (pre-practice: 48.4 (3.6) kg; post-practice: 39.1 (8.7) kg) (p <0.001), with a large effect size (Cohen d z > 1.15). The lowest percentage decrease, 9.8 (8.3)%, was observed for the only skier with advanced level and highest maximum HGS pre-practice, while the skier with lowest maximum HGS pre-practice and an intermediate level showed a reduction of 38.9 (10.6)%. In the set of practices of the four skiers, the maximum HGS reduction after a mean grip time of 20.5 min was 18.5%, with no correlation between these variables (r = 0.49, p = 0.076). Practising slalom water-skiing in sitting position by people experiencing paraplegia leads to a decrease in the maximum HGS of the dominant hand, the percentage decrease may be in relation to competitive level and physical fitness of the skiers.
... 25 Participants performed three sustained maximal isometric quadriceps contractions, with the greatest of the three efforts carried forward for analysis. Upper body skeletal muscle assessment was obtained by standing grip strength using a hand-held dynamometer (Takeii analog dynamometer; Takei Corp Ltd., Tokyo, Japan) 26 with the best result from three efforts carried forward. ...
Background
The constructs and interdependency of physical behaviors are not well described and the complexity of physical activity (PA) data analysis remains unexplored in COPD. This study examined the interrelationships of 24-hour physical behaviors and investigated their associations with participant characteristics for individuals with mild–moderate airflow obstruction and healthy control subjects.
Patients and methods
Vigorous PA (VPA), moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA), light PA (LPA), stationary time (ST), average movement intensity (vector magnitude counts per minute), and sleep duration for 109 individuals with COPD and 135 healthy controls were obtained by wrist-worn accelerometry. Principal components analysis (PCA) examined interrelationships of physical behaviors to identify distinct behavioral constructs. Using the PCA component loadings, linear regressions examined associations with participant (+, positive correlation; -, negative correlation), and were compared between COPD and healthy control groups.
Results
For both groups PCA revealed ST, LPA, and average movement intensity as distinct behavioral constructs to MVPA and VPA, labeled “low-intensity movement” and “high-intensity movement,” respectively. Sleep was also found to be its own distinct behavioral construct. Results from linear regressions supported the identification of distinct behavioral constructs from PCA. In COPD, low-intensity movement was associated with limitations with mobility (−), daily activities (−), health status (+), and body mass index (BMI) (−) independent of high-intensity movement and sleep. High-intensity movement was associated with age (−) and self-care limitations (−) independent of low-intensity movement and sleep. Sleep was associated with gender (0= female, 1= male; [−]), lung function (−), and percentage body fat (+) independent of low-intensity and high-intensity movement.
Conclusion
Distinct behavioral constructs comprising the 24-hour day were identified as “low-intensity movement,” “high-intensity movement,” and “sleep” with each construct independently associated with different participant characteristics. Future research should determine whether modifying these behaviors improves health outcomes in COPD.
... Even the normalization of electromyography data requires the hand gripping task to activate these muscles (Bhardwaj& Khan, 2018). Grip strength with different testing positions can be the best predictor in identifying postures which maximizes biomechanical abilities that may assist workers in the activities of daily living (Parvatikar & Mukkannavar, 2009). ...
An ergonomic assessment of static muscular strength like hand grip-and pinch strength in handicraft occupation was made. In total, 170 female participants were selected for the case-control study, out of which 120 handicraft and 50 office workers were examined as exposed and control groups. Their maximum static handgrip-and pinch strength were measured using hand and pinch dynamometers. We analyze our findings to indicate static muscular strength varies significantly due to repetitive use of hand tools. The decrement in pinch grip strength was evident due to long cycle repetitive pinching movements of distal phalanx during hand knotting and pearl drilling. Based on our results we propose the need for ergonomically designed hand tool interventions that may reduce the accumulation of loss in static muscle strength.
... Several authors have assessed the force, according to the different types of grip (Delgado, 1990;Incel, Ceceli, Durukan, Erdem, & Yorgancioglu, 2002;Li & Yu, 2011;Mathiowetz, et. al., 1985;Parvatikar & Mukkannavar, 2009;Werle, et. al., 2009), equally important, has also been recognized that these capacities vary over time which can affect the performance in some activities (Ranganathan, Siemionow, Sahgal, & Yue, 2001;Shiffman, 1992). ...
An analysis of different objects of daily use was made, specifically four models of lemon squeezers, three models of can openers, and four models of clothespins. Such analysis is made focusing on the strength needed to complete the task and the dimensional relation between the hands and object grips that impact both in ease of use and user well-being itself, identifying the gap between young and older adults characteristics and capabilities and the features of the object. This comparison was supported by a dynamometric study to identify the maximum capabilities of strength application in two different grip forces very common in daily life. These two grip forces are the ground of the interaction with the analyzed products. In conjunction with the force, the registry made an anthropometric assessment of different anatomical points in the hands.
... На результаты силы сжатия кисти влияет также методика проведения кистевой динамометрии. Разное положение тела, плечевого и локтевого суставов, запястья могут приводить к существенному завышению или занижению полученных значений силы кисти [12][13][14]. Например, погрешность результатов измерения при разной степени разгибания запястья может составлять от 19 до 25 % [14]. ...
Introduction. Grip strength is a reflection not only of the strength of the hands, but also the strength of the muscles of the whole body, the functional capabilities of the body and an important diagnostic marker of the overall health of a person. The aim of this work was to compare the measurements obtained with the DK-50 and JAMAR® Plus digital handheld dynamometers.Methods. A convenience sample was used of 94 health participants, men and women, aged from 15 to 65 years old. Grip strength of a dominant hand was conducted using a carpal mechanical dynamometer DK-50 (Nizhni Tagil, Russian Federation) and JAMAR® Plus digital handheld dynamometer. The simple Pearson correlation test, linear regression method and the procedure of Bland and Altman were used to estimate difference between an average value of results of measurements of grip strength (AGS) and maximum measurement of grip strength (MGS) of the dominant hand of two dynamometers.Results. The grip strength using JAMAR® Plus dynamometer was higher than with the DK-50 dynamometer by 5.6 ± 4.2 kg for the average grip strength (AGS) and by 6.7 ± 4.3 kg for the maximum grip strength (MGS). The formulas for transferring the data of the car dynamometry of the DK-50 dynamometer to the values obtained from the JAMAR® Plus dynamometer are calculated: AGS JAMAR® Plus == 1,7874 + 1,1208 × AGS DK-50 and MGS JAMAR® Plus = 1.7667 + 1, 1275 × MGS DK-50.Conclusion. For avoiding errors in the interpretation of the results from different studies, it is necessary to take into account which type of dynamometer was used. The resulting formulas (AGS JAMAR® Plus == 1,7874 + 1,1208 × AGS DK50 and MGS JAMAR® Plus = 1,7667 + 1,1275 × MGS DK50) can be used to correct the data of the dynamometer DK-50 for value of JAMAR® Plus dynamometer and to compare the results of Russian studies with data from foreign studies organized using JAMAR® Plus dynamometers. (For citation: Turusheva AV, Frolova EV, Degryse J-M. Comparison of measurement results are obtained with dynamometers DK-50 and JAMAR® Plus. Russian Family Doctor. 2018;22(1):12-17. doi 10.17816/RFD2018112-17).
... In Young et al. (2009), the rung was fixed in the forward/backward direction, which affords greater stability and greater force exertion (Seo & Armstrong, 2009). Furthermore, arm posture influenced the amount of force that could be generated consistent with several previous studies (Chaffin et al., 1983;Fothergill, Grieve, & Pheasant, 1992;Garg et al., 2005;Parvatikar & Mukkannavar, 2009;Su, Lin, Chien, Cheng, & Sung, 1994). Interestingly, the effect of upper limb posture on force generation of the present study were opposite the effects observed with lifting (Garg et al., 2005) or pushing/pulling studies (Chaffin et al., 1983;Fothergill et al., 1992) that have found a reduced ability to generate force with higher hand position. ...
Objective
We examined the impacts of pulling task (breakaway and pull-down tasks at different postures), glove use, and their interaction on achievable downward pull forces from a ladder rung.
Background
Posture, glove use, and the type of pulling task are known to affect the achievable forces. However, a gap in the literature exists regarding how these factors affect achievable downward pulling forces, which are relevant to recovery from a perturbation during ladder climbing.
Methods
Forty subjects completed four downward pulling tasks (breakaway force; pull force at maximum height, shoulder height, and a middle height), using three glove conditions with varying coefficient of friction (COF) levels (cotton glove, low COF; bare hand, moderate COF; and latex-coated glove, high COF) with their dominant and nondominant hand. The outcome variable was the maximum force normalized to body weight.
Results
The highest forces were observed for the highest hand postures (breakaway and maximum height). Increased COF led to higher forces and had a larger effect on breakaway force than the other tasks. The dominant hand was associated with higher forces than the nondominant hand. Male subjects generated greater forces than female subjects, particularly for higher hand positions.
Conclusion
This study suggests that a higher hand position on the ladder, while avoiding low-friction gloves, may be effective for improving recovery from ladder perturbations.
Application
This study may guide preferred climbing strategies (particularly those that lead to a higher hand position) for improving recovery from a perturbation during ladder climbing.
... Regarding the wrist position, one study suggested that a minimum of 25 degrees of wrist extension was required for optimum grip strength [21]. Later, it was shown that HGS measured with wrist in a neutral position was significantly higher than that in the wrist ulnar deviation [41] and, in another study that the mean grip strength scores were higher for all the tested six positions when wrist was positioned in neutral than in extension position [45]. ...
Background
Hand grip strength (HGS) is used for the diagnosis of sarcopenia and frailty. Several factors have been shown to influence HGS values during measurement. Therefore, variations in the protocols used to assess HGS, as part of the diagnosis of sarcopenia and frailty, may lead to the identification of different individuals with low HGS, introducing bias. The aim of this systematic review is to gather all the relevant studies that measured HGS to diagnose sarcopenia and frailty and to identify the differences between the protocols used. MethodsA systematic review was carried out following the recommendations of The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) Statement. PubMed and Web of Science were systematically searched, until August 16, 2016. The evidence regarding HGS measurement protocols used to diagnose sarcopenia and frailty was summarised and the most recent protocols regarding the procedure were compared. ResultsFrom the described search 4393 articles were identified. Seventy-two studies were included in this systematic review, in which 37 referred to sarcopenia articles, 33 to frailty and two evaluated both conditions. Most studies presented limited information regarding the protocols used. Conclusions
The majority of the studies included did not describe a complete procedure of HGS measurement. The high heterogeneity between the protocols used, in sarcopenia and frailty studies, create an enormous difficulty in drawing comparative conclusions among them.
... The bar in the handle was adapted so the subject felt comfortable. Grip strength was evaluated with patients in standing position and the elbow fully extended with the shoulder flexion at 0° (Su et al., 1994;Parvatikar and Mukkannavar, 2009;Roberts et al., 2011). ...
Objective: Hand muscle strength assessment is widespread and can be a useful marker in the evaluation and monitoring of subjects at different ages and health conditions. This study aimed at validating and determining the reliability of a new digital device for evaluation of hand pinch strength by comparing it with a well-validated hand strength assessment device, the Jamar hydraulic hand dynamometer. Methods: In 65 healthy subjects, (males/females: 29/36), mean age 40.3±18.0 (range: 19.3-76.5) years, hand pinch strength and hydraulic hand dynamometer were used to assess hand strength following a testing protocol. Only the dominant hand was tested. Evaluations were performed considering gender, hand dominance, body mass index and age, according to the standardized testing protocol. The mean of three consecutive grip tests and lateral pinch tests was recorded. Results: There was a strong correlation (p<0.0001) between the hydraulic hand dynamometer and hand pinch strength tests. Both mean strengths measured by hydraulic hand dynamometer and hand pinch strength in females were significantly lower than in males (P<0.001), the grip strength being 34.75% and the lateral pinch test 27.83% weaker than in males. Multivariate analysis indicated that the strength expressed by the hand pinch strength pinch test remained significantly associated with the results of hydraulic hand dynamometer (p<0,001), independent of age and body weight. Conclusions: hand pinch strength and hydraulic hand dynamometer have been shown to be significantly correlated with each other in subjects of different ages, sex and body mass index. The hand pinch strength device has been proven to be a reliable tool for measuring maximal isometric strength by lateral pinch test. This device can be used for quick and inexpensive numerical evaluation of muscular strength in cases as the elderly in communities, bedridden patients, and during drug therapies presumed to be strength affecting.
... Five expressed the desire to counter or Challenge their condition through lifestyle modification. Reminiscent of Lindqvist and Hallberg (2010) Making sense of existence, they described their Singh et al., 1992;Edwards et al., 1977;Parvatikar and Mukkannavar, 2009;and Quanjer et al., 1993 for details of measurement protocols). ...
This paper draws on Elias's sociology of knowledge to provide a critical assessment of illness narratives. Focusing on a cohort of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients (n = 26), the paper employs a comparative analysis of mixed method data derived from qualitative interviews, quantitative questionnaires, and physiological and accelerometer testing. The article firstly compares four narratives conveyed in interviews with the broader paradigmatic approach to illness narratives and existing COPD-specific studies. It then explores the relationship between these 'stories' and COPD patients' biographical contingencies (e.g. age, wealth, context of diagnosis) and embodied condition (e.g. co-morbidities, lung function), demonstrating how illness narratives are shaped by both broader social structural factors and embodied experience. Invoking Elias we further find that different narrative subthemes are varyingly affected by patients' emotional engagement and ontological security and thus that people are differently enabled or constrained to present illness narratives that are consistent with their broader social and physical condition. Consequently, while narratives, social structure and embodied experience are interdependent, our reading of 'truth' must be sensitive to the social positioning of the 'teller' and the specific content being relayed. The paper therefore presents a more systematic, comparative, bio-psycho-social analysis than has hitherto been produced.
... Typically ideal bench press form requires that the wrist should be "cocked" with knuckles pointed towards the ceiling to minimise strain on the passive structures of the joint. 28 Many participants reported discomfort in the wrists following testing whilst using the Slingshot. A similar phenomenon was reported in a study which analysed the kinematics of successful and unsuccessful bench press attempts with supramaximal loads 20 where researchers also observed a marked change in wrist position between efforts. ...
Objective: To examine whether using the Slingshot will enable participants to perform a greater volume-load during bench press repetitions with a maximal load and increase set volume-load compared to an unaided condition. Summary of Background Data: Literature suggests that increased volume-loads during training may aid in improving strength, and further maximises mechanical tension and metabolic stress potentially leading to increased hypertrophy. It has been suggested that a new piece of equipment, called the Slingshot could be used in training to improve performance in the bench press by enabling individuals to increase their training volume whilst using maximal loads. Method: Nine trained male participants volunteered to participate. Each participant performed a bench press one repetition maximum (1RM) test before completing repetitions to momentary failure using the Slingshot one week later. Volume-load for each condition was calculated as repetitions (n) x load (kg). Results: A paired samples t-Test comparing between conditions revealed a significant difference (p < 0.001) between volume loads performed unaided (96.1±14.6 kg) and with the Slingshot (350±103.7 kg). Conclusion: Using the slingshot in training does allow individuals to perform greater volume-loads with a maximal load; however longitudinal research must be conducted to ascertain the magnitude of any potential benefit from using it.
Background/Objectives: Despite widespread use in clinical and athletic settings, validity of handgrip strength (HGS) as a surrogate for maximal strength remains debated, particularly regarding how testing posture influences its predictive value. Moreover, while HGS is frequently considered a marker of 'total strength', this term is often vaguely defined, lacking a clear, performance-based framework. Therefore, this study investigates HGS as a potential surrogate measure for one-repetition maximum (1RM) performances in key compound lifts via back squat (BS), bench press (BP), deadlift (DL), and total (TOT), while accounting for variations in testing posture. Methods: Two distinct testing conditions were used to account for postural influences: Experiment 1 implemented high-output standing HGS (HGS STAND) in 22 recreationally trained males [Wilks Score: 318.51 ± 44.61 au] vs. Experiment 2, which included low-output seated HGS (HGS SIT) in 22 competitive powerlifters [409.86 ± 46.76 au], with all testing immediately followed by 1RM assessment. Results: Correlational analyses identified the strongest association between HGS STAND and 1RM DL (r = 0.693, BF 10 = 106.42), whereas HGS SIT exhibited the strongest relationship with 1RM BP (r = 0.732, BF 10 = 291.32). Postural effects had a significant impact on HGS outcomes (p < 0.001, ω 2 = 0.413), with HGS STAND producing higher outputs than HGS SIT despite lower absolute strength 1RM capabilities. Conclusions: These findings emphasize the role of biomechanical specificity and neuromuscular engagement in grip strength assessments , indicating that HGS can function as a practical surrogate for maximal strength, though its predictive value depends on posture. Strength practitioners, sport scientists, and clinicians should consider these confounding factors when implementing HGS-based monitoring strategies.
Background
The measurement of handgrip force responses is important in many aspects, for example: to complement neurological assessments, to investigate the contribution of muscle mass in predicting functional outcomes, in setting realistic treatment goals, evaluating rehabilitation strategies. Normative data about handgrip force can assist the therapist in interpreting a patient’s results compared with healthy individuals of the same age and gender and can serve as key decision criteria. In this context, establishing normative values of handgrip strength is crucial. Hence, the aim of the this study is to develop a tool that could be used both in rehabilitation and in the prevention of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. This tool takes the form of population-specific predictive equations, which express maximum handgrip force as a function of age.
Methodology
In order to collect data from studies measuring maximum handgrip force, three databases were searched. The search yielded 5,058 articles. Upon the removal of duplicates, the screening of abstracts and the full-text review of potentially relevant articles, 143 publications which focussed on experimental studies on various age groups were considered as fulfilling the eligibility criteria. A comprehensive literature review produced 1,276 mean values of maximum handgrip force.
Results
A meta-analysis resulted in gender- and world region-specific (general population, USA, Europe and Asia) equations expressing maximum force as a function of age. The equations showed quantitative differences and trends in maximum handgrip force among age, gender and national groups. They also showed that values of maximum handgrip force are about 40% higher for males than for females and that age-induced decrease in force differs between males and females, with a proved 35% difference between the ages of 35 and 75. The difference was lowest for the 60–64 year olds and highest for the 18–25 year-olds. The equations also showed that differences due to region are smaller than those due to age or gender.
Conclusions
The equations that were developed for this study can be beneficial in setting population-specific thresholds for rehabilitation programmes and workstation exposure. They can also contribute to the modification of commonly used methods for assessing musculoskeletal load and work-related risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders by scaling their limit values.
Background: Basketball is a contact pivot sport. Basketball moves are generally individual actions used by players in basketball to pass by defenders to gain a clean pass to a teammate to score points. Stability, mobility and strength are the 3 main components to determine the athlete's performance among the professional basketball players. There are limited studies and effective method of evaluation on field test that assess upper body stability, mobility and strength. This study aims to assess the relationship between upper extremity dynamic balance and hand grip strength in professional basketball players. Materials and Methods: Convenience sampling technique was used to include 20 Professional basketball player's age between (18-28) years. After initial assessment of age, height, playing hours per day per week and upper limb length measurement. Upper extremity dynamic balance using Upper Quadrant Balance Test (UQ-YBT) and Hand Grip Strength (HGS) using Jamar hand held dynamometer were measured. Results: Karl Pearson's correlation was used to measure the relationship between hand grip strength and upper extremity dynamic balance. Moderate positive correlation was found between Left-HGS and Left-UQYBT(r=+0.479), Right-HGS and Right-UQYBT(r=+0.556), (p>0.05). Conclusion: This study conclude that, the tests are interrelated and also can be use to assess equal component of upper extremity ability. This observation may provide professional basketball trainer and physical therapist with a reliable and easy quick-to-administrate to evaluate upper extremity stability, mobility and strength in a clinical setting.
In chronic kidney disease (CKD), handgrip strength (HGS) is recommended as a surrogate measure of protein-energy status and functional status. However, it is not routinely used because of inconsistencies such as the optimal timing of the HGS measurement and unclear guidance regarding technique. We aimed to determine the extent of variation in the protocols and methods of HGS assessment. We aimed to identify clinical and epidemiological studies conducted on CKD that reported on the use of HGS as an outcome. A systematic literature search identified n = 129 studies with a total participant population of n = 35,192. We identified large variations in all aspects of the methodology including body and arm position, repetitions, rest time, timing, familiarization, and how scores were calculated. The heterogeneous methodologies used reinforce the need to standardize HGS measurement. After reviewing previously employed methodology in the literature, we propose a comprehensive HGS assessment protocol for use in CKD.
Introduction: An individual’s overall muscle strength is commonly assessed by a power grip measurement, a reliable indicator of functional capacity and physical condition. The development of muscle parallels the changes of body composition during growth. Aim of this study is to examine the correlationship between hand grip strength and anthropometric. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 76 male students of Dhammasavana School, aged between 12 – 16 years old, North Jakarta. Hand grip strength was examined using a digital dynamometer on the dominant side. Statistical analysis was computed using SPSS ver. 15.0 program with Spearman correlations test. Significance was set at p<0.05. Results: Dominant hand grip strength was found to have significant (p<0.05 - 0.001) positive correlation with height (r=0.612), lower arm muscle-and-bone cross-sectional circumference and area (CSA) (r=0.553 and r=0.553 respectively), hand length (r=0.548), forearm length (r=0.540), age (r=0.520), weight (r=0.416), and forearm girth (r=0.376). Conclusion: No significant correlation between grip strength and body mass index was found. Positive correlations between the variables mentioned above conclude that the higher the value of the anthropometric measurements, the greater the strength generated in a power grip.
The human body is exceptional for many reasons, not the least of which is the wide variety of movements it is capable of executing. Because our species is able to execute so many discrete activities, researchers often disagree on which were the movements most essential to the evolution of our species. This paper continues a recently introduced analysis, that the performance gap between female and male athletes narrows in sports which most reflect the movements humans evolved to do. Here, I examine the performance gap in rock climbing. Female climbers are some of the best in the world irrespective of gender, a trend that is not found in any other major sport. I conclude that the exceptional ability of female rock climbers relative to male rock climbers is further evidence of the existence of sex-blind musculoskeletal adaptations, which developed over the course of human evolution – as a result of external (non-sexual) selection forces – to facilitate essential movements. These adaptations abate some of the general physical sexual dimorphism which exists in humans. This paper provides more evidence that the human body was shaped, in part, by pressure to climb well.
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This article has been withdrawn as part of the withdrawal of the Proceedings of the International Conference on Emerging Trends in Materials Science, Technology and Engineering (ICMSTE2K21). Subsequent to acceptance of these Proceedings papers by the responsible Guest Editors, Dr S. Sakthivel, Dr S. Karthikeyan and Dr I. A. Palani, several serious concerns arose regarding the integrity and veracity of the conference organisation and peer-review process. After a thorough investigation, the peer-review process was confirmed to fall beneath the high standards expected by Materials Today: Proceedings.
The veracity of the conference also remains subject to serious doubt and therefore the entire Proceedings has been withdrawn in order to correct the scholarly record.
The human body is exceptional for many reasons, not the least of which is the wide variety of movements it is capable of executing. Because our species is able to execute so many discrete activities, researchers often disagree on which were the movements most essential to the evolution of our species. This paper continues a recently introduced analysis, that the performance gap between female and male athletes narrows in sports which most reflect movements humans evolved to do. Here, I examine the performance gap in rock climbing. Because rock climbing is so similar to tree climbing, which bountiful evidence suggests has been key to the origin and proliferation of our species, we would expect to see a narrow performance gap between men and women in the sport. Indeed, this is the case. Female climbers are some of the best in the world irrespective of gender, a trend that is not found in any other major sport. I conclude that exceptional ability of female climbers is further evidence of the existence of sex-blind musculoskeletal adaptations, which developed over the course of human evolution to facilitate essential movements. These adaptations abate the general physical sexual dimorphism which exists in humans. This paper provides more evidence that the performance gap in sport can be used as a measure of human evolution.
Objective(s)
In hemodialysis patients, malnutrition and inflammation are prominent determinants of mortality. Reduced muscle mass is considered to be one of the most valid criteria in malnutrition diagnosis, and hand grip strength (HGS) is used as an efficient tool for evaluating muscle functioning. The aim of this study was to determine if HGS is associated with the nutritional status determined with malnutrition-inflammation score (MIS) and biochemical parameters in HD patients.
Design and Methods
Patients who have been on hemodialysis treatment for at least 6 months were included in this cross-sectional study. HGS was measured by a hand dynamometer. MIS was used to evaluate malnutrition, and Modified Charlson Comorbidity Index was used to rank comorbidities.
Results
A total of 132 hemodialysis patients, 73 (55.3%) males and 59 (44.7%) females, were included. The mean age of the patients was 56.90 ± 13.73 years. The mean age was 60.66 ± 13.42 years in the low-HGS group and 52.91 ± 13.00 years in the high-HGS group. HGS significantly decreased as age increased (P = .001). In patients with diabetes mellitus, HGS was significantly lower (67.4% and 43%; P = .013). Male patients with high HGS had significantly higher body weight (74.75 kg and 66 kg; P = .012). But there was no significant relationship between HGS and weight for female patients. HGS decreased when Charlson Comorbidity Index score (5 in low-HGS group and 4 in high-HGS group) and MIS values increased (8 in low-HGS group and 6 in high-HGS group) (P = .001 and P < .001, respectively). Only MIS was observed to have a statistically significant impact on HGS in the regression model (P < .001).
Conclusion
A significant relationship was found between MIS and HGS; HGS's relationship with comorbidities was also presented in our study.
Objective: Despite numerous recent advances in the field of rehabilitation robotics, simultaneous, and proportional control of hand and/or wrist prostheses is still unsolved. In this work we concentrate on myocontrol of combined actions, for instance power grasping while rotating the wrist, by only using training data gathered from single actions. This is highly desirable since gathering data for all possible combined actions would be unfeasibly long and demanding for the amputee. Approach: We first investigated physiologically feasible limits for muscle activation during combined actions. Using these limits we involved 12 intact participants and one amputee in a Target Achievement Control test, showing that tactile myography, i.e., high-density force myography, solves the problem of combined actions to a remarkable extent using simple linear regression. Since real-time usage of many sensors can be computationally demanding, we compare this approach with another one using a reduced feature set. These reduced features are obtained using a fast, spatial first-order approximation of the sensor values. Main results: By using the training data of single actions only, i.e., power grasp or wrist movements, subjects achieved an average success rate of 70.0% in the target achievement test using ridge regression. When combining wrist actions, e.g., pronating and flexing the wrist simultaneously, similar results were obtained with an average of 68.1%. If a power grasp is added to the pool of actions, combined actions are much more difficult to achieve (36.1%). Significance: To the best of our knowledge, for the first time, the effectiveness of tactile myography on single and combined actions is evaluated in a target achievement test. The present study includes 3 DoFs control instead of the two generally used in the literature. Additionally, we define a set of physiologically plausible muscle activation limits valid for most experiments of this kind.
Tests of handgrip strength (HGS) and handgrip force (HGF) are commonly used across a number of sporting populations. Measures of HGS and HGF have also been utilized by practitioners and researchers to evaluate links with sports performance. This article, firstly evaluates the validity and reliability of various handgrip dynamometers (HGD) and HGF sensors, providing recommendations for procedures to ensure precise and reliable data are collected as part of an athlete testing battery. Secondly, the differences in HGS between elite and sub-elite athletes and the relationships between HGS, HGF, and sports performance are discussed.
The oxygen consumption (VO 2 max) was estimated in 30 state level sportsmen of different events (athletics, judo, volleyball, boxing) during maximal exercise on a treadmill. Pyruvate and lactate levels in venous blood were estimated before and immediately after the exercise. No significant differences were seen in VO 2 max, blood pyruvate and blood lactate in sportsmen of different events. The VO 2 max, and lactate build up in the present study were lower than the reported levels for National and International level sportsmen.
Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) is quite a common clinical manifestation characterised by the presence of trigger points (TrP), muscle spasm, tenderness, motion restriction, weakness and autonomic dysfunction. The ideal therapy should be fast, cheap and long-term effective. Local anesthetic injection and low-intensity laser therapy are two types of such treatments.Aim: The main purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of TrP injection and low intensity laser therapy in patients with MPS.Method: 43 patients (14 men, 29 women) diagnosed as MPS were included in this study. In the first group (23 cases), laser therapy was applied for 3 min to each TrP within 12 sessions. In the second group (20 cases), 1 ml prilocaine 2% was injected to the TrP once a week for four consecutive weeks. The evaluation was made before the treatment (BT), after the treatment (AT) and sixth months after the treatment (SMT). Effectiveness of treatment was evaluated by a visual analog scale (VAS), a pressure algometer (AL), and a verbal pain scale (VPS).Results: Outcomes and curative effects of BT and SMT were statistically significant and similar in both groups (p < 0.05). No side effects were observed in either group.
This randomized, controlled study assessed the effect of Strain Counterstrain (SCS) on tender points (TP) and strength of hip musculature. The convenience sample included 49 volunteers (15 men, 34 women; 98 limbs), aged 19-38 years, with hip weakness and corresponding TPs. A visual analog scale was used to assess pain; a digital handheld dynamometer was used to assess strength. Participants were randomly assigned to three intervention groups: SCS, Exercise (EX), and SCS+EX. All interventions were performed twice over two weeks; pain and strength were measured three times, both before and after intervention began. The SCS and SCS+EX groups demonstrated increased strength (p
Previous studies of endurance exercise training in older men and women generally have found only minimal skeletal muscle adaptations to training. To evaluate the possibility that this may have been due to an inadequate training stimulus, we studied 23 healthy older (64 +/- 3 yr) men and women before and after they had trained by walking/jogging at 80% of maximal heart rate for 45 min/day 4 days/wk for 9-12 mo. This training program resulted in a 23% increase in maximal O2 consumption. Needle biopsy samples of the lateral gastrocnemius muscle were obtained before and after training and analyzed for selected histochemical and enzymatic characteristics. The percentage of type I muscle fibers did not change with training. The percentage of type IIb fibers, however, decreased from 19.1 +/- 9.1 to 15.1 +/- 8.1% (P less than 0.001), whereas the percentage of type IIa fibers increased from 22.1 +/- 7.7 to 29.6 +/- 9.1% (P less than 0.05). Training also induced increases in the cross-sectional area of both type I (12%; P less than 0.001) and type IIa fibers (10%; P less than 0.05). Capillary density increased from 257 +/- 43 capillaries/mm2 before training to 310 +/- 48 capillaries/mm2 after training (P less than 0.001) because of increases in the capillary-to-fiber ratio and in the number of capillaries in contact with each fiber. Lactate dehydrogenase activity decreased by 21% (P less than 0.001), whereas the activities of the mitochondrial enzymes succinate dehydrogenase, citrate synthase, and beta-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase increased by 24-55% in response to training (P less than 0.001-0.05).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Myofascial pain is a regional pain syndrome characterized in part by a trigger point in a taut band of skeletal muscle and its associated referred pain. We examined a series of 172 patients presenting to a university primary care general internal medicine practice. Of 54 patients whose reason for a visit included pain, 16 (30%) satisfied criteria for a clinical diagnosis of myofascial pain. These patients were similar in age and sex to other patients with pain, and the frequency of pain as a primary complaint was similar for myofascial pain as compared with other reasons for pain. The usual intensity of myofascial pain as assessed by a visual analog scale was high, comparable to or possibly greater than pain due to other causes. Patients with upper body pain were more likely to have myofascial pain than patients with pain located elsewhere. Physicians rarely recognized the myofascial pain syndrome. Commonly applied therapies for myofascial pain provided substantial abrupt reduction in pain intensity. The prevalence and severity of myofascial pain in this university internal medicine setting suggest that regional myofascial pain may be an important cause of pain complaints in the practice of general internal medicine.
Physiological characteristics of elite runners from different racing events were studied. Twenty-seven middle- and long-distance runners and two 400-m runners belonging to the Swedish national team in track and field were divided, according to their distance preferences, into six groups from 400 m up to the marathon. The maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2 max, ml·kg⁻¹·min⁻¹) on the treadmill was higher the longer the main distance except for the marathon runners (e.g., 800-1500-m group, 72.1; 5000-10,000-m group, 78.7 ml·kg⁻¹,min⁻¹). Running economy evaluated from oxygen uptake measurements at 15 km/h (V̇O215) and 20 km/h (V̇O220) did not differ significantly between the groups even though V̇O215 tended to be lower in the long-distance runners. The running velocity corresponding to a blood lactate concentration of 4 mmol/l (vHla 4.0) differed markedly between the groups with the highest value (5.61 m/s) in the 5000-10,000-m group. The oxygen uptake (V̇O2) at vHla 4.0 in percentage of V̇O2 max did not differ significantly between the groups. The blood lactate concentration after exhaustion (V̇O2 max test) was lower in the long-distance runners.
In summary, the present study demonstrates differences in physiological characteristics of elite runners specializing in different racing events. The two single (but certainly interrelated) variables in which this was most clearly seen were the maximal oxygen uptake (ml·kg⁻¹·min⁻¹) and the running velocity corresponding to a blood lactate concentration of 4 mmol/l.
The purpose of this study was to compare the physiological responses of highly trained middle (MD) and long distance (LD) runners during treadmill running. The oxygen uptake (VO2) of 74 elite runners (42 MD and 32 LD) was measured during treadmill running at several speeds (201, 241, 282, and 322 m/min at 0% grade) and at maximal effort. The mean VO2max (ml/kg X min) of the LD runners (76.9) was significantly higher (p less than 0.01) than the value for the MD group (68.9). At each running speed, the relative oxygen costs (%VO2) was lower (p less than 0.01) for the LD group averaging 8% less across the four running speeds. The slopes of the relationship between submaximal VO2 (ml/kg X min) and running speed of 0.183 and 0.216 for the MD and LD groups, respectively, were not significantly different. The relationship between running performance, maximal treadmill running time (TRT), and VO2 was studied for each group. VO2max was more highly correlated with running performance in the MD group (r = 0.70) than in the LD group (r = 0.32) although the standard errors of estimate were similar for both groups. Results of this investigation demonstrate that there are differences in the metabolic characteristics of the MD and LD runners as classified in this study.
In the present study, the relationships between beta-adrenergic receptor (beta-AR) expression and aerobic capacity evaluated by maximal oxygen consumption (.VO2max) and oxygen consumption level at ventilatory threshold (.VO2@VT) were investigated. Seventeen physically untrained and 25 trained men participated in the study. After supine resting, the peripheral blood was sampled for preparation of lymphocytes, the model cell used to analyze the beta-AR state. The total number of beta-AR in lymphocytes (beta-ARtotal) was inversely correlated with the VO2 max (r = -0. 368; P < 0.05) and the VO2@VT (r = -0.359; P < 0.05). Similar relationships were also observed between the number of beta-AR in cell surface and both VO2 max (r = -0.491; P < 0.05) and VO2@VT (r = -0.498; P < 0.05). However, no correlation was obtained between the number of beta-AR in intracellular compartments and either VO2 max or VO2@VT. The beta2-AR mRNA level quantified by the use of competitive reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction was inversely correlated with VO2@VT (r = -0.567; P < 0.05) and positively correlated with beta-ARtotal (r = 0.521; P < 0.05). These findings suggest that the beta-AR number in lymphocytes is inversely correlated with aerobic capacity. This relationship may be explained by downregulation of beta-AR, including internalization with subsequent degradation of the receptors and inhibition of the beta-AR biosynthesis.
There are no studies comparing myocardial metabolism between endurance- and resistance-trained athletes. We used 2-deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-D-glucose and positron emission tomography combined with the euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp technique to compare the ability of insulin to stimulate myocardial, skeletal muscle, and whole body glucose uptake between weight lifters (n = 8), endurance athletes (n = 8), and sedentary men (n = 9). Maximal aerobic power (ml. kg- 1. min- 1) was higher in the endurance athletes (71 +/- 2, P < 0.001) than the weight lifters (42 +/- 2) and the sedentary men (42 +/- 2). Skeletal muscle glucose uptake (micromol. kg muscle- 1. min- 1) was enhanced in the endurance athletes (125 +/- 16, P < 0.01) but was similar in weight lifters (59 +/- 12) and sedentary (63 +/- 7) men. The rate of glucose uptake per unit mass of myocardium (micromol. kg- 1. min- 1) was similarly decreased in endurance athletes (544 +/- 50) and weight lifters (651 +/- 45) compared with sedentary men (1,041 +/- 78, P < 0.001 vs. endurance athletes and weight lifters). Both groups of athletes had increased left ventricular mass. Consequently, total left ventricular glucose uptake was comparable in all groups. These data demonstrate that aerobic but not resistance training is associated with enhanced insulin sensitivity in skeletal muscle. Despite this, cardiac changes are remarkably similar in weight lifters and endurance athletes and are characterized by an increase in left ventricular mass and diminished insulin-stimulated glucose uptake per heart mass.
Using external vascular ultrasound, we measured brachial artery diameter (Diam) at rest, after release of 4 min of limb ischemia, i. e., endothelium-dependent dilation (EDD), and after sublingual nitroglycerin, i.e., non-endothelium-dependent dilation (NonEDD), in 35 healthy men aged 61-83 yr: 12 endurance athletes (A) and 23 controls (C). As anticipated, treadmill exercise maximal oxygen consumption (VO(2 max)) was significantly higher in A than in C (40. 2 +/- 6.6 vs. 27.9 +/- 3.8 ml. kg(-1). min(-1); respectively, P < 0. 0001). With regard to arterial physiology, A had greater EDD (8.9 +/- 4.2 vs. 5.7 +/- 3.5%; P = 0.02) and a tendency for higher NonEDD (13.9 +/- 6.7 vs. 9.7 +/- 4.2%; P = 0.07) compared with C. By multiple linear regression analysis in the combined sample of older men, only baseline Diam (beta = -2.0, where beta is the regression coefficient; P = 0.005) and VO(2 max) (beta = 0.23; P = 0.003) were independent predictors of EDD; similarly, only Diam (beta = -4.0; P = 0.003) and VO(2 max) (beta = 0.27; P = 0.01) predicted NonEDD. Thus endurance-trained older men demonstrate both augmented EDD and NonEDD, consistent with a generalized enhanced vasodilator responsiveness, compared with their sedentary age peers.
A prospective, double-blind, randomized, and controlled trial was conducted in patients with chronic myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) in the neck to evaluate the effects of infrared low level 904 nm Gallium-Arsenide (Ga-As) laser therapy (LLLT) on clinical and quality of life (QoL).
The study group consisted of 60 MPS patients. Patients were randomly assigned to two treatment groups: Group I (actual laser; 30 patients) and Group II (placebo laser; 30 patients). LLLT continued daily for 2 weeks except weekends. Follow-up measures were evaluated at baseline, 2, 3, and 12 weeks. All patients were evaluated with respect to pain at rest, pain at movement, number of trigger points (TP), the Neck Pain and Disability Visual Analog Scale (NPAD), Beck depression Inventory (BDI), and the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP).
In active laser group, statistically significant improvements were detected in all outcome measures compared with baseline (P < 0.01) while in the placebo laser group, significant improvements were detected in only pain score at rest at the 1 week later of the end of treatment. The score for self-assessed improvement of pain was significantly different between the active and placebo laser groups (63 vs. 19%) (P < 0.01).
This study revealed that short-period application of LLLT is effective in pain relief and in the improvement of functional ability and QoL in patients with MPS.
We introduce the English-language Visual Numeric Scale (VNS) for self-reported pain and examine its psychometric properties; we compare the VNS to the better known Visual Analog Scale (VAS).
We developed the VNS, which combines strong visual cues with an 11-point numeric rating scale. The VNS was administered to 2 sets of subjects with arthritis or chronic disease (N = 175, N = 192, respectively) and responses were examined. To compare the VNS to the VAS, we administered both scales to all subjects and used correlations to compare them to each other and to health distress and overall general health scores. A subset of respondents enrolled in an arthritis self-management program were given the VNS 4 months later, and change scores were used to test the sensitivity of the VNS.
The VNS had means of 5.4 and 5.6 in the 2 samples, with distributions across the range of possible values. The VNS correlated well with the VAS (r = 0.85) and correlated slightly better than the VAS with the 2 independent health measures. The VNS was more likely to be completed than the VAS and there were fewer coding errors with the VNS. The VNS showed a significant (effect size 0.28) positive change for participants in a self-management course.
The VNS appeared to be a valid measure. It was as successful as the VAS in measuring the underlying pain variable. It was easier to administer and code than the VAS, and was sensitive to change in pain.
The purpose of this study was to measure actual VO2max during the multi-stage fitness test (MSFT) and to compare this with predicted values obtained using previously established, commonly used methods. We also wanted to determine a new and more accurate regression equation for the prediction of VO2max in intermittent sport athletes.
Twenty-six, elite, male, intermittent sport athletes performed the MSFT with oxygen uptake (VO2) and heart rate (HR) measured throughout. Paired t-tests were used to compare measured VO2max with predicted VO2max. Linear regression was used to determine the equation for the prediction of VO2max from the total number of shuttles completed.
There were no differences between the two methods of predicting VO2max, however, both predicted values (53.6+/-3.9 and 51.3+/-4 mL x kg(-1) x min(-1)) were significantly lower (9.3% and 13.2%, respectively) than measured VO2max (59.1+/-6.6 mL x kg(-1) x min(-1), P < 0.001). Correlations between measured and predicted VO2max were similar for both prediction methods (r = 0.61, P = 0.013 and r = 0.68 and P = 0.004). We present a new prediction equation [Y (VO2max, mL x kg(-1) x min(-1)) = 0.38 x total number of shuttles completed +25.98] (where R = 0.69; R2 = 0.48; SEE = 4.9 mL x kg(-1) x min(-1); SEE% = 8.3) which provides a more valid method of predicting actual max in intermittent sport athletes.
A new regression equation to predict VO2max in intermittent sport athletes has been established. Whilst some error in predicting VO2max still exists, the new equation will provide coaches and sport-scientists with a more suitable equation with which to predict VO2max in intermittent sport athletes.
Concern about the body fat of children and its relation to adult obesity has led to the development of standards for assessing children's optimal body fat content. The use of skinfold thickness measures to establish the degree of fatness is described. (MT)
Data were obtained from 13 sprint (age range 41-58) and 13 distance (age range 4-78) Masters track athletes. The mean VO2max value for the distance runners was 54.4 +/- 3 ml kg min compared with 47.2 +/- 2 ml kg min for the sprinters. The highest VO2max (71.0 ml kg min) was obtained on a 45-year-old distance runner while the lowest (27.3 ml kg min) was obtained on the oldest (78 years) distance runner. VO2max decreased by 34.5% from age 40 to 70 in the distance runner in spite of continued training that ranged from 40 to 120 miles/week. Maximum ventilation rates were 122.5 +/- 6.8 and 116.8 +/- 7.0 1 min for the sprint and distance runners, respectively. Percentage of body fat was 16.5 +/- 0.5 for the sprinters and 18.0 +/- 1.1 for the distance runners. Serum cholesterol values were 218.7 +/- 8.7 and 203.0 +/- 13.8 ml/dl, while triglyceride values were 101.5 +/- 8.2 and 84.1 +/- 9.3 mg/dl for the sprint and distance groups, respectively. These data indicate that, VO2max decreases significantly with aging despite the continuation of long distance training. Percent body fat and serum lipid levels were significantly lower in these athletes compared to those for sedentary adults, suggesting a protective effect against coronary heart disease. Only one subject had S-T segment depression during the exercise test.
Maximal and submaximal metabolic and cardiovascular measures and work capacity were studied in control (n = 7) and experimental (n = 9) subjects (S's) during arm work prior to and following 10 wk of interval arm training. These measures were oxygen uptake (VO2), minute ventilation (VE), heart rate (HR), respiratory exchange ratio (R), cardiac output (Q), stroke volume (SV), and arteriovenous oxygen difference ((a--v)O2 diff). In addition, maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) was measured in both groups during treadmill running. Experimental S's showed significant increases (P less than 0.01) in peak VO2 (438 ml.min-1), max VE (17.7 l.min-1), max (a--v)O2 diff (20.8 ml.l-1), and work time (9.2 min) during arm ergometry, while maximum values of Q, SV, HR, and R remained unchanged. In addition, submaximal heart rates were significantly lower during arm ergometry after training. VO2max during treadmill running remained essentially unchanged. No changes in metabolic and physiological measures were noted for the controls after the 10-wk training period. The results support the concept of training specificity for VO2max, and indicate that the improvement in peak VO2 in arm ergometry reflects enhanced oxygen utilization due to an expanded (a--v)O2 diff.
We investigated the differences in the prevalence of obesity between France, the United Kingdom and the United States in 1988. The analysis was made on a total sample of 5580 subjects, representative of the population aged 16-50 years in the three countries. The same questionnaire was used in all three countries. Body mass index (kg/m2) was used to assess corpulence. Significant differences in the prevalence of obesity were observed among the three countries: 7% of the population in France was obese, 9% in the UK and 15% in the USA (P less than 0.001). There was a strikingly high percentage of very obese women (more than 50% overweight) in the USA (8% of the population) as compared to the two European countries (2% in France and 3% in the UK). In all three countries, obesity was related to sex, age, level of education, marital status, physical exercise and smoking. An inverse association was found between obesity and alcohol consumption in the USA, but not in France nor in the UK. In men, prevalence of obesity remained significantly higher in the USA than in France or in the UK when adjusting for the obesity-related factors. In women, differences in prevalence of obesity between the three countries varied according to the level of exercise, income and alcohol consumption.
Injuries to the cervical spine, especially those involving the soft tissues, represent a significant source of chronic disability. Methods of assessment for such disability, especially those targeted at activities of daily living which are most affected by neck pain, are few in number. A modification of the Oswestry Low Back Pain Index was conducted producing a 10-item scaled questionnaire entitled the Neck Disability Index (NDI). Face validity was ensured through peer-review and patient feedback sessions. Test-retest reliability was conducted on an initial sample of 17 consecutive "whiplash"-injured patients in an outpatient clinic, resulting in good statistical significance (Pearson's r = 0.89, p less than or equal to .05). The alpha coefficients were calculated from a pool of questionnaires completed by 52 such subjects resulting in a total index alpha of 0.80, with all items having individual alpha scores above 0.75. Concurrent validity was assessed in two ways. First, on a smaller subset of 10 patients who completed a course of conservative care, the percentage of change on NDI scores before and after treatment was compared to visual analogue scale scores of percent of perceived improvement in activity levels. These scores correlated at 0.60. Secondly, in a larger subset of 30 subjects, NDI scores were compared to scores on the McGill Pain Questionnaire, with similar moderately high correlations (0.69-0.70). While the sample size of some of the analyses is somewhat small, this study demonstrated that the NDI achieved a high degree of reliability and internal consistency.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
To determine reliabilities within and between persons measuring cervical active range of motion (AROM) three methods were examined: use of a cervical-range-of-motion (CROM) instrument, use of a universal goniometer (UG), and visual estimation (VE). Measurements were made on 60 patients with orthopedic disorders of the cervical spine who were divided into three groups of 20 subjects each. All subjects were tested in a standardized seated position using operationally defined goniometric placements and nongoniometric estimation techniques. Cervical flexion and extension, lateral flexion, and rotation were measured. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were used to quantify within-tester and between-tester reliability. We found that goniometric measurements of AROM of the cervical spine made by the same physical therapist had ICCs greater than .80 when made with the CROM device or the UG. When different physical therapist measured the same patient's cervical AROM, the CROM device had ICCs greater than .80, whereas the UG and VE generally had ICCs less than .80.
Three nations carried out large surveys of their non-institutionalized populations during the period 1976-81, with essentially similar techniques for measuring height and weight. Using criteria previously published for the British survey, we analyzed the Canadian and United States data and compared the prevalence of excessive weight for ages 20-64 in the three countries. Overweight was defined as a Quetelet index value of 25.1-30, and obesity as a value exceeding 30. Compared to their Canadian and British counterparts, American men are more likely to be overweight or obese, especially at the lower age levels. The proportion of excessively heavy men reaches a plateau around age 50 in all three countries, possibly indicative of a survivor phenomenon. Among women, the US has the highest proportion of excessively heavy individuals at all ages except 20-24; this difference is especially marked at ages 45-54. Unlike men, there is no evidence that the proportion of overweight or obese women reaches a plateau by age 64.
Regularly performed endurance exercise induces major adaptations in skeletal muscle. These include increases in the mitochondrial content and respiratory capacity of the muscle fibers. As a consequence of the increase in mitochondria, exercise of the same intensity results in a disturbance in homeostasis that is smaller in trained than in untrained muscles. The major metabolic consequences of the adaptations of muscle to endurance exercise are a slower utilization of muscle glycogen and blood glucose, a greater reliance on fat oxidation, and less lactate production during exercise of a given intensity. These adaptations play an important role in the large increase in the ability to perform prolonged strenuous exercise that occurs in response to endurance exercise training.
The post-isometric relaxation technique begins by placing the muscle in a stretched position. Then an isometric contraction is exerted against minimal resistance. Relaxation and then gentle stretch follow as the muscle releases. This technique was applied to tight, tender muscles that are commonly associated with musculoskeletal pain and was systematically tested on 351 muscle groups in 244 patients. The method produced immediate pain relief in 94%, lasting pain relief in 63%, as well as lasting relief of point tenderness in 23% of the sites treated. Patients who practiced autotherapy on a home program were more likely to realize lasting relief. Pain was relieved in both the muscle itself and at tender insertion points. The technique is useful in addition to, or in place of, local anesthetic injection or dry needling. These results confirm other observations that the increased tension of the affected muscles and the resulting pain and dysfunction are both relieved by restoring the full stretch length of the muscle.
In order to study oxygen consumption (VO2) for a given work load at the exhaustive level of a graded cycling exercise in well-trained runners, a progressive cycle ergometer exercise test was performed on 9 sprinters and 12 endurance runners, all in good national standing; 12 sedentary men served as control subjects. The relationship between VO2 and work-output appeared to be linear in most of the subjects, but a plateau phenomenon was observed in two sprinters and two endurance runners. An upwards curvilinear increase in VO2 was noticed during the last two minutes of exercise in four endurance runners, but not in any of the sprinters. The four endurance runners with this unexpected increase in VO2 had a significantly higher (p < .01) "peak VO2" (mean = 75.3 ml.kg.-1.min.-1) than the rest of the endurance runners (mean = 55.1), and a significantly higher (p < .001) peak VO2 than the sprinters (mean = 46.0). It is concluded that the plateau phenomenon appears in runners during graded cycle ergometry, though rather seldom. It is less clear if the endurance runners showing the upwards curvilinear increase in VO2 possess a better aerobic performance capacity towards the end of progressive exercise. Nevertheless, the linear relationship between VO2 and work load does not appear to be the only one observed in runners during graded exercise.
Proper exercise positively affects most of the risk factors of coronary heart disease and frequently enhances the quality of life. Maximum exercise test evaluation is recommended for adults over 35 years of age prior to initiating an exercise program. Key elements for an adult exercise program include activities for flexibility, muscular tone, and cardiorespiratory endurance. Proper warm-up may improve performance and reduces the potential for injury. Exercise motivation is enhanced by variation.
Among the various methods of application techniques in low level laser therapy (LLLT) (HeNe 632.8 nm visible red or infrared 820-830 nm continuous wave and 904 nm pulsed emission) there are very promising "trigger points" (TPs), i.e., myofascial zones of particular sensibility and of highest projection of focal pain points, due to ischemic conditions. The effect of LLLT and the results obtained after clinical treatment of more than 200 patients (headaches and facial pain, skeletomuscular ailments, myogenic neck pain, shoulder and arm pain, epicondylitis humery, tenosynovitis, low back and radicular pain, Achilles tendinitis) to whom the "trigger points" were applied were better than we had ever expected. According to clinical parameters, it has been observed that the rigidity decreases, the mobility is restored (functional recovery), and the spontaneous or induced pain decreases or even disappears, by movement, too. LLLT improves local microcirculation and it can also improve oxygen supply to hypoxic cells in the TP areas and at the same time it can remove the collected waste products. The normalization of the microcirculation, obtained due to laser applications, interrupts the "circulus vitiosus" of the origin of the pain and its development (Melzak: muscular tension > pain > increased tension > increased pain, etc.). Results measured according to VAS/VRS/PTM: in acute pain, diminished more than 70%; in chronic pain more than 60%. Clinical effectiveness (success or failure) depends on the correctly applied energy dose--over/underdosage produces opposite, negative effects on cellular metabolism. We did not observe any negative effects on the human body and the use of analgesic drugs could be reduced or completely excluded. LLLT suggests that the laser beam can be used as monotherapy or as a supplementary treatment to other therapeutic procedures for pain treatment.
The Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase plays an important role in the maintenance of electrolyte balance in the working muscle and thus may contribute to endurance performance. This study aimed to investigate the associations between genetic variants at the Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase alpha2 locus and the response (Delta) of maximal oxygen consumption (VO(2 max)) and maximal power output (W(max)) to 20 wk of endurance training in 472 sedentary Caucasian subjects from 99 families. VO(2 max) and W(max) were measured during two maximal cycle ergometer exercise tests before and again after the training program, and restriction fragment length polymorphisms at the Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase alpha2 (exons 1 and 21-22 with Bgl II) gene were typed. Sibling-pair linkage analysis revealed marginal evidence for linkage between the alpha2 haplotype and DeltaVO(2 max) (P = 0.054) and stronger linkages between the alpha2 exon 21-22 marker (P = 0.005) and alpha2 haplotype (P = 0.003) and DeltaW(max). In the whole cohort, DeltaVO(2 max) in the 3.3-kb homozygotes of the exon 1 marker (n = 5) was 41% lower than in the 8.0/3.3-kb heterozygotes (n = 87) and 48% lower than in the 8.0-kb homozygotes (n = 380; P = 0.018, adjusted for age, gender, baseline VO(2 max), and body weight). Among offspring, 10.5/10.5-kb homozygotes (n = 14) of the exon 21-22 marker showed a 571 +/- 56 (SE) ml O(2)/min increase in VO(2 max), whereas the increases in the 10.5/4.3-kb (n = 93) and 4.3/4.3-kb (n = 187) genotypes were 442 +/- 22 and 410 +/- 15 ml O(2)/min, respectively (P = 0.017). These data suggest that genetic variation at the Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase alpha2 locus influences the trainability of VO(2 max) in sedentary Caucasian subjects.
Selected short distance runners, middle distance runners and long distance runners were subjected to graded exercise on a treadmill. The maximum aerobic power (VO2 max) and other indices related to oxygen transport system viz. heart rate, ventilation volume, breathing reserve, dyspnoeic index, O2 pulse and RQ were recorded at respective VO2 max work loads, and the values were compared. Long distance runners and middle distance runners showed a significantly higher VO2 max than the short distance runners when VO2 max was expressed per unit of body weight. Among the endurance runners, long distance runners had a significantly lower resting pulse rate as well as the maximum heart rate during work than the middle distance runners. On comparison, Ventilation Volume, Breathing reserve, Dyspnoeic index, O2 pulse and RQ at VO2 max work loads do not differ significantly among different categories of runners.
Myofascial trigger points (TPs) are found among patients who have neck and upper back pain. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of a home program of ischemic pressure followed by sustained stretching for the treatment of myofascial TPs.
Forty adults (17 male, 23 female), aged 23 to 58 years (mean=30.6, SD=9.3), with one or more TPs in the neck or upper back participated in this study.
Subjects were randomly divided into 2 groups receiving a 5-day home program of either ischemic pressure followed by general sustained stretching of the neck and upper back musculature or a control treatment of active range of motion. Measurements were obtained before the subjects received the home program instruction and on the third day after they discontinued treatment. Trigger point sensitivity was measured with a pressure algometer as pressure pain threshold (PPT). Average pain intensity for a 24-hour period was scored on a visual analog scale (VAS). Subjects also reported the percentage of time in pain over a 24-hour period. A multivariate analysis of covariance, with the pretests as the covariates, was performed and followed by 3 analyses of covariance, 1 for each variable. RESULTS Differences were found between the treatment and control groups for VAS scores and PPT. No difference was found between the groups for percentage of time in pain.
A home program, consisting of ischemic pressure and sustained stretching, was shown to be effective in reducing TP sensitivity and pain intensity in individuals with neck and upper back pain. The results of this study indicate that clinicians can treat myofascial TPs through monitoring of a home program of ischemic pressure and stretching.
In a case control study, we examined the allelic frequencies and genotype distributions of two restricted fragment length polymorphisms (RFLP) in the alpha-2A-adrenoceptor gene (ADRA2A) and beta-2-adrenoceptor gene (ADRB2) among elite endurance athletes (EEA) and sedentary controls (SC).
The EEA group included 148 Caucasian male subjects recruited on the basis that they had a VO2max > 74 mL O2 x kg(-1) x min(-1). The SC group comprised 149 unrelated sedentary male subjects, all Caucasians, from the Quebec Family Study. After digestion with the restriction enzymes Dra I (ADRA2A) and Ban I (ADRB2), Southern blotting and hybridization techniques were used to detect the mutations in the two ADR genes, which are encoded on chromosomes 10 (q24-26) and 5 (q31-32), respectively.
For the Dra I ADRA2A RFLP, we observed a significant difference in genotype distributions between the two groups (P = 0.037). A higher frequency of the 6.7-kb allele was observed in the EEA group compared with the SC group (P = 0.013). No statistically significant difference was found between groups for the Ban I ADRB2 polymorphic site. Genotype frequencies for both genes in both groups were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium.
In summary, we found evidence that ADRA2A gene variability detected with Dra I is weakly associated with elite endurance athlete status, and we conclude that genetic variation in the ADRA2A gene or a locus in close proximity may play a role in being able to sustain the endurance training regimen necessary to attain a high level of maximal aerobic power.
The efficacy of low level laser therapy (LLLT) in myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) seems controversial. Our aim was to clarify the effect of LLLT in MPS by using algometry and thermography.
Sixty-two patients with MPS having an active trigger point in the neck or upper back region were randomly divided into two equal groups according to therapy applied (group 1: LLLT + stretching exercises, group 2: stretching exercises alone). The outcome measures were pain measured with visual analogue scale (VAS), algometry on the trigger point, algometric difference, thermographic difference, and thermal asymmetry. Comparison was made within and between the groups pre- and post-therapeutically and 3 weeks after therapy.
Mean pain values decreased more significantly in group 1 from baseline to 3 weeks follow up (7.54-3.06) while these values were 7.03-5.19 in group 2 (P < 0.05). Group comparisons revealed significant favorable differences in group 1 patients in terms of all other parameters at the first and the second evaluation post therapeutically (P < 0.05).
LLLT seemed to be beneficial for pain in MPS by using algometry and thermography.
This study aimed to analyse the validity of glucose minimum speed (GMS) for lactate minimum speed (LMS) assessment during running and their relationship to endurance performance. Eight male trained runners (28.7 +/- 9.0 years) volunteered to take part in this study and underwent an official 10-km road race and a track lactate minimum test (LMT) (0.5-km sprint plus 6 x 800 m from 87 to 98% of maximal 3-km speed). Lactate and glucose minimum speeds were considered those related to the minimum blood lactate and glucose concentrations respectively attained during the graded phase of LMT. Significant correlations (p < 0.05) were found between LMS and GMS (r = 0.72) and LMS and 10-km performance (r = 0.83), but not between GMS and 10-km performance (r = 0.49). No significant differences (p > 0.05) were found between LMS (4.75 +/- 0.08 m/s), GMS (4.73 +/- 0.07 m/s) and 10-km mean speed (4.79 +/- 0.17 m/s). In conclusion, we found GMS to be a good predictor of LMS during track LMT, LMS being well related to endurance running performance.
We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of laser therapy in myofascial pain syndrome treatment.
Myofascial pain syndrome is a disease that is characterized by hypersensitive points called trigger points found in one or more muscles and/or connective tissues. It can cause pain, muscle spasm, sensitivity, stiffness, weakness, limitation of range of motion and rarely autonomic dysfunction. Physical therapy modalities and exercise are used in the treatment of this frequently encountered disease.
The placebo controlled, prospective, long-term follow up study was planned with 60 patients who had trigger points in their upper trapezius muscles. The patients were divided into three groups randomly. Stretching exercises were taught to each group and they were asked to exercise at home. Treatment duration was 4 weeks. Placebo laser was applied to group 1, dry needling to group 2 and laser to group 3. He-Ne laser was applied to three trigger points in the upper trapezius muscles on both sides with 632.8 nm. The patients were assessed at before, post-treatment, and 6 months after-treatment for pain, cervical range of motion and functional status.
We observed a significant decrease in pain at rest, at activity, and increase in pain threshold in the laser group compared to other groups. Improvement according to Nottingham Health Profile gave the superiority of the laser treatment. However, those differences among the groups were not observed at 6-month follow up.
Laser therapy could be useful as a treatment modality in myofascial pain syndrome because of its noninvasiveness, ease, and short-term application.
We compared the oxygen uptake (VO2) response of sprint- and endurance-trained runners for an exhaustive square wave run lasting approximately 2 minutes. Six sprinters and six middle- and long-distance runners each performed two exhaustive square wave runs lasting approximately 2 min and two exhaustive ramp tests. VO2 was determined breath-by-breath (QP9000; Morgan Medical, Rainham, UK) and averaged across the two repeats of each test; for the square wave test, the averaged VO2 response (excluding the first 15 s) was then modelled using a monoexponential function. Both VO2peak for the ramp test (67.5+/-3.3 vs. 54.5+/-8.5 mlxkg(-1)xmin(-1); P= 0.006) and the asymptotic VO2 for the square wave run (59.6+/-2.7 vs. 50.7+/-4.6 mlxkg(-1)xmin(-1); P= 0.002) were higher for the endurance than for the sprint group. However, as a percentage of VO2peak, this asymptotic VO2 did not differ between the groups (90.1+/-3.2% (endurance) vs. 96.2+/-9.0% (sprint); P= 0.145). Across all 12 subjects, the %VO2peak attained in the square wave run was negatively correlated with VO2peak (Pearson's r= -0.811, P= 0.001). We conclude that VO2max is more important than training history as a determinant of the %VO2max attained in exhaustive square wave running lasting approximately 2 min.
To evaluate the effects of needle electrical intramuscular stimulation (NEIMS) on myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) and their epidermal blood flow.
Forty adult patients with active MTrPs in the upper trapezius or levator scapulae underwent 4 weekly NEIMS sessions. Visual analog scale (VAS) and pain pressure threshold (PPT), along with cervical and shoulder range of motion (ROM) were used as outcome measures. Microcirculatory changes were also evaluated by laser Doppler flowmetry of the epidermal area above these MTrPs. Data were collected before and after each treatment. Paired t tests were used to compare pre- and post-treatment data. Outcomes were presented as box plots displaying medians and 25th to 75th percentile values.
VAS and PPT pain significantly improved immediately after each treatment; effects persisted till the end of the experiment. NEIMS treatment also had immediate and mid-term positive effects on cervical and shoulder ROM. There was an overall negative correlation between epidermal blood flow and VAS score before the first treatment. Regional blood flow significantly increased immediately but temporarily after each treatment.
NEIMS did have positive effects on myofascial pain syndrome, but the data did not indicate that increased regional microcirculation was the possible therapeutic mechanism.
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