Ankle Dorsiflexion Promotes Irradiation of Ipsilateral Quadriceps Musculature in a Healthy Population

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-4
Author(s):  
Emily Lahne ◽  
Grace Golden ◽  
Shelley W. Linens
Keyword(s):  
Lower Extremity ◽  
Muscle Activation ◽  
Force Production ◽  
Preliminary Evidence ◽  
Ankle Dorsiflexion ◽  
Healthy Population ◽  
Clinical Question ◽  
Bottom Line ◽  
Initial Stage

Clinical Question: Does ankle dorsiflexion promote irradiation of ipsilateral lower extremity musculature during a maximal isometric quadriceps contraction task in a healthy population? Clinical Bottom Line: There is preliminary evidence supporting the use of active ankle dorsiflexion during isometric quadriceps exercises to promote increased quadriceps activation and force production. As isometric quadriceps exercises are often included in initial stage rehabilitation, increasing muscle activation and force production may be beneficial.

Serratus Anterior Muscle Activation During Different Push-up Exercises: A Critically Appraised Topic

2015 ◽  
Vol 20 (2) ◽  
pp. 5-13
Author(s):  
Taylor Meier ◽  
Brice Snyder ◽  
Jennifer W. Cuchna ◽  
Johanna M. Hoch
Keyword(s):  
Muscle Activation ◽  
Weight Bearing ◽  
Full Weight Bearing ◽  
Healthy Population ◽  
Clinical Question ◽  
Serratus Anterior ◽  
Bottom Line ◽  
Maximum Voluntary Isometric Contraction ◽  
Unstable Surface ◽  
Push Up

Clinical Question:In a healthy adult population, which push-up position produces the greatest mean serratus anterior (SA) activation, expressed as a percentage of maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC)?Clinical Bottom Line:In a healthy population, there is moderate evidence to support the use of the standard push-up on an unstable surface, elbow push-ups on stable and unstable surfaces, wall push-ups on an unstable surface, the full weight-bearing position using the Cuff Link system, and all three hand positions (shoulder width, wide base, and narrow base) with and without the use of the Perfect Pushup™ handgrips for the purpose of SA strengthening. These exercises produced a mean SA activation of at least 50% of the MVIC in the four cross-sectional studies that were reviewed for this critically appraised topic.

scholarly journals The Effect of Kinesio Tape on Factors for Neuromuscular Control of the Lower-Extremity: A Critically Appraised Topic

2020 ◽  
Vol 29 (6) ◽  
pp. 841-846
Author(s):  
Nickolai Martonick ◽  
Kimber Kober ◽  
Abigail Watkins ◽  
Amanda DiEnno ◽  
Carmen Perez ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Lower Extremity ◽  
Muscle Activation ◽  
Knee Kinematics ◽  
Neuromuscular Control ◽  
Current Evidence ◽  
Healthy Population ◽  
Bottom Line ◽  
Athletic Population ◽  
Randomized Controlled Studies ◽  
Kinesiology Tape

Clinical Scenario: Joint instability is a common condition that often stems from inadequate muscle activation and results in precarious movement patterns. When clinicians attempt to mechanically treat the unstable joint rather than attending to the underlying cause of the instability, patient outcomes may suffer. The use of kinesiology tape (KT) on an unstable joint has been proposed to aid in improving lower-extremity neuromuscular control. Clinical Question: Does KT improve factors of neuromuscular control in an athletic population when compared with no-tape or nonelastic taping techniques? Summary of Key Findings: The current literature was searched, and 5 randomized controlled studies were selected comparing the effects of KT with no-tape or nonelastic taping techniques on lower-extremity neuromuscular control in an athletic population. Primary findings suggest KT is not more effective than no-tape or nonelastic tape conditions at improving lower-extremity neuromuscular control in a healthy population. Clinical Bottom Line: The current evidence suggests that KT is ineffective for improving neuromuscular control at the ankle compared with nonelastic tape or no-tape conditions. KT was also found to be ineffective at improving hip and knee kinematics in healthy runners and cyclists. However, preliminary research has demonstrated improved neuromuscular control in a population displaying excessive knee valgus during a drop jump landing, after the application of KT. Clinicians should be cautious of these conflicting results and apply the best available evidence to their evaluation of the patient’s status. Strength of Recommendation: There is grade B evidence that the use of KT on an athletic population does not improve biomechanical measures of ankle stability. There is inconclusive, grade B evidence that KT improves neuromuscular control at the knee in symptomatic populations.

Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization for Improving Ankle Dorsiflexion Range of Motion in Healthy Patients: A Critically Appraised Topic

2020 ◽  
Vol 25 (4) ◽  
pp. 170-175
Author(s):  
Alison M. Gardiner-Shires ◽  
Cristina B. Seffrin
Keyword(s):  
Soft Tissue ◽  
Range Of Motion ◽  
Ankle Dorsiflexion ◽  
Therapeutic Interventions ◽  
Healthy Population ◽  
Clinical Question ◽  
Short Term ◽  
Bottom Line ◽  
Soft Tissue Mobilization ◽  
Quality Evidence

Clinical Question: In a healthy population, is instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization beneficial in improving ankle dorsiflexion range of motion as compared to other therapeutic interventions? Clinical Bottom Line: For healthy patients, there is moderate-quality evidence to support the short-term use of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization for improving ankle dorsiflexion range of motion.

The Effects of Self-Myofascial Release on Flexibility of the Lower Extremity: A Critically Appraised Topic

2015 ◽  
Vol 20 (2) ◽  
pp. 14-19 ◽  
Author(s):  
Christine M. Feldbauer ◽  
Brittany A. Smith ◽  
Bonnie Van Lunen
Keyword(s):  
Lower Extremity ◽  
Range Of Motion ◽  
Clinical Question ◽  
Use Of Self ◽  
Bottom Line ◽  
Physically Active ◽  
Myofascial Release ◽  
Low Level

Clinical Question:Does self-myofascial release improve lower extremity fexibility or range of motion in physically active individuals?Clinical Bottom Line:There is low-level evidence to support the use of self-my-ofascial release to increase range of motion and fexibility in the lower extremity.

scholarly journals Does the FIFA 11+ Program Prevent Hamstring Injuries in College-Aged Male Soccer Players? A Critically Appraised Topic

2021 ◽  
Vol 30 (1) ◽  
pp. 158-160
Author(s):  
Scott Benson Street ◽  
Thomas Kaminski
Keyword(s):  
Lower Extremity ◽  
Soccer Players ◽  
Lower Extremity Injury ◽  
Clinical Question ◽  
Bottom Line ◽  
Warm Up ◽  
Lower Extremity Injuries ◽  
Hamstring Injuries ◽  
Male College ◽  
Extremity Injuries

Clinical Scenario: Hamstring injuries are the most prevalent lower-extremity injury among soccer players. The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has addressed this issue by developing the FIFA 11+ program, which is focused on improving strength and decreasing the incidence of lower-extremity injuries in the sport. This critically appraised topic focuses on this program as well as one of its components, the Nordic hamstring exercise, in the prevention of hamstring injuries. Clinical Question: Does the FIFA 11+ program prevent hamstring injuries in college-aged male soccer players? Summary of Key Findings: Four studies were selected to be critically appraised. The PEDro checklist was used to score the articles on methodology and consistency. All 4 articles demonstrated support for the clinical question. Clinical Bottom Line: There is moderate evidence to support the use of the FIFA 11+ program and Nordic hamstring exercise as part of a college soccer team’s warm-up routine. Strength of Recommendation: Grade B evidence exists in support of incorporating the FIFA 11+ program to reduce the incidence of hamstring injuries in male college soccer players.

The Relationship Between Hip Kinematics and Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS) in Long Distance Runners: A Critically Appraised Topic

2016 ◽  
Vol 21 (4) ◽  
pp. 5-11
Author(s):  
Janice K. Loudon ◽  
Marcie Swift
Keyword(s):  
Lower Extremity ◽  
Iliotibial Band ◽  
Clinical Question ◽  
Distance Runners ◽  
Long Distance ◽  
Bottom Line ◽  
Iliotibial Band Syndrome ◽  
History Of ◽  
Hip Kinematics ◽  
The Relationship

Clinical Question:Is there evidence to suggest that runners with a history of ITBS demonstrate altered lower extremity kinematics compared with runners without a history of ITBS?Clinical Bottom Line:There is moderate evidence suggesting that hip kinematics differ between runners with a history of ITBS compared with healthy runners. Results are contradictory related to the plane of movement and direction of the kinematic change. In addition, assessing hip kinematics following an exhaustive run may be beneficial to detect change.

Inter- and Intra-Rater Reliability of Handheld Dynamometry for Lower Extremity Strength Testing in Pre-Professional Dancers

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marissa Schaeffer ◽  
Laurel Daniels Abbruzzese ◽  
Zoe Tawa ◽  
Kynaston Schultz ◽  
Joanna Binney ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Lower Extremity ◽  
External Fixation ◽  
Physical Therapist ◽  
Force Production ◽  
Knee Extension ◽  
Ankle Dorsiflexion ◽  
Rater Reliability ◽  
Ankle Eversion ◽  
Lower Extremity Strength ◽  
Muscle Groups

Handheld dynamometry (HHD) using external fixation has demonstrated high inter- and intra-rater reliability. Handheld dynamometry offers an objective way to quantify strength; however, setting up external stabilization devices for HHD can be time consuming. This study examined the reliability of HHD for lower extremity strength in dancers using body weight stabilization. Twenty-six pre-professional dancers (age: 20.64 ± 2.21 years) were recruited and assessed by three testers: an experienced physical therapist (ePT), a novice physical therapist (nPT), and a student physical therapist (SPT). To avoid testing fatigue, dancers were divided into two testing groups and were evaluated on separate weekends. Testers used HHD to test isometric force production of six muscle groups in the first cohort and seven different muscle groups in the second cohort. Testing positions were standardized and utilized a “make” test protocol. Intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC), 95% confidence interval, and standard error of measurement were calculated for each position. Inter-rater reliability was > 0.75 for all ICC measures except knee extension and ankle eversion. Intra-rater reliability was > 0.75 for all ICC measures except the ePT (tester A) day 2 for hip extension, internal rotation seated, knee extension, and ankle dorsiflexion; nPT (tester B) day 1 knee flexion; and SPT (tester C) for day 1 knee extension and ankle eversion and days 1 and 2 for ankle dorsiflexion and inversion. It is concluded that HHD can reliably measure force production of hip, knee, and ankle muscle groups without use of external fixation devices.

Effect of Limiting Ankle-Dorsiflexion Range of Motion on Lower Extremity Kinematics and Muscle-Activation Patterns During a Squat

2012 ◽  
Vol 21 (2) ◽  
pp. 144-150 ◽  
Author(s):  
Elisabeth Macrum ◽  
David Robert Bell ◽  
Michelle Boling ◽  
Michael Lewek ◽  
Darin Padua
Keyword(s):  
Lower Extremity ◽  
Range Of Motion ◽  
Outcome Measures ◽  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Knee Flexion ◽  
Muscle Activation ◽  
Knee Kinematics ◽  
Ankle Dorsiflexion ◽  
Knee Valgus ◽  
Peak Knee

Context:Limitations in gastrocnemius/soleus flexibility that restrict ankle dorsiflexion during dynamic tasks have been reported in individuals with patellofemoral pain (PFP) and are theorized to play a role in its development.Objective:To determine the effect of restricted ankle-dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM) on lower extremity kinematics and muscle activity (EMG) during a squat. The authors hypothesized that restricted ankle-dorsiflexion ROM would alter knee kinematics and lower extremity EMG during a squat.Design:Cross-sectional.Participants:30 healthy, recreationally active individuals without a history of lower extremity injury.Interventions:Each participant performed 7 trials of a double-leg squat under 2 conditions: a nowedge condition (NW) with the foot flat on the floor and a wedge condition (W) with a 12° forefoot angle to simulate reduced plantar-flexor flexibility.Main Outcome Measures:3-dimensional hip and knee kinematics, medial knee displacement (MKD), and ankle-dorsiflexion angle. EMG of vastus medialis oblique (VMO), vastus lateralis (VL), lateral gastrocnemius (LG), and soleus (SOL). One-way repeated-measures ANOVAs were performed to determine differences between the W and NW conditions.Results:Compared with the NW condition, the wedge produced decreased peak knee flexion (P < .001, effect size [ES] = 0.81) and knee-flexion excursion (P < .001, ES = 0.82) while producing increased peak ankle dorsiflexion (P = .006, ES = 0.31), ankle-dorsiflexion excursion (P < .001, ES = 0.31), peak knee-valgus angle (P = .02, ES = 0.21), and MKD (P < .001, ES = 2.92). During the W condition, VL (P = 0.002, ES = 0.33) and VMO (P = .049, ES = 0.20) activity decreased while soleus activity increased (P = .03, ES = 0.64) compared with the NW condition. No changes were seen in hip kinematics (P > .05).Conclusions:Altering ankle-dorsiflexion starting position during a double-leg squat resulted in increased knee valgus and MKD, as well as decreased quadriceps activation and increased soleus activation. These changes are similar to those seen in people with PFP.

The Use of Breathing Exercises in the Treatment of Chronic, Nonspecific Low Back Pain

2017 ◽  
Vol 26 (5) ◽  
pp. 452-458 ◽  
Author(s):  
Barton E. Anderson ◽  
Kellie C. Huxel Bliven
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Low Back Pain ◽  
Back Pain ◽  
Lung Function ◽  
Clinical Scenario ◽  
Clinical Question ◽  
Low Back ◽  
Bottom Line ◽  
Breathing Exercises

Clinical Scenario:Research has shown a link between poor core stability and chronic, nonspecific low back pain, with data to suggest that alterations in core muscle activation patterns, breathing patterns, lung function, and diaphragm mechanics may occur. Traditional treatment approaches for chronic, nonspecific low back pain focus on exercise and manual therapy interventions, however it is not clear whether breathing exercises are effective in treating back pain.Focused Clinical Question:In adults with chronic, nonspecific low back pain, are breathing exercises effective in reducing pain, improving respiratory function, and/or health related quality of life?Summary of Key Findings:Following a literature search, 3 studies were identified for inclusion in the review. All reviewed studies were critically appraised at level 2 evidence and reported improvements in either low back pain or quality of life following breathing program intervention.Clinical Bottom Line:Exercise programs were shown to be effective in improving lung function, reducing back pain, and improving quality of life. Breathing program frequencies ranged from daily to 2–3 times per week, with durations ranging from 4 to 8 weeks. Based on these results, athletic trainers and physical therapists caring for patients with chronic, nonspecific low back pain should consider the inclusion of breathing exercises for the treatment of back pain when such treatments align with the clinician’s own judgment and clinical expertise and the patient’s preferences and values.Strength of Recommendation:Grade B evidence exists to support the use of breathing exercises in the treatment of chronic, nonspecific low back pain.

scholarly journals Role of Occupational Footwear and Prolonged Walking on Lower Extremity Muscle Activation during Maximal Exertions and Postural Stability Tasks

Biomechanics ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 1 (2) ◽  
pp. 202-213
Author(s):  
Harish Chander ◽  
Sachini N. K. Kodithuwakku Arachchige ◽  
Alana J. Turner ◽  
Reuben F. Burch V ◽  
Adam C. Knight ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Lower Extremity ◽  
Muscle Activity ◽  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Postural Stability ◽  
Muscle Activation ◽  
Medial Gastrocnemius ◽  
Lower Extremity Muscle ◽  
Prolonged Duration ◽  
The Mean ◽  
The Impact

Background: Occupational footwear and a prolonged duration of walking have been previously reported to play a role in maintaining postural stability. The purpose of this paper was to analyze the impact of three types of occupational footwear: the steel-toed work boot (ST), the tactical work boot (TB), and the low-top work shoe (LT) on previously unreported lower extremity muscle activity during postural stability tasks. Methods: Electromyography (EMG) muscle activity was measured from four lower extremity muscles (vastus medialis (VM), medial hamstrings (MH), tibialis anterior (TA), and medial gastrocnemius (MG) during maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVIC) and during a sensory organization test (SOT) every 30 min over a 4 h simulated workload while wearing ST, TB, and LT footwear. The mean MVIC and the mean and percentage MVIC during each SOT condition from each muscle was analyzed individually using a repeated measures ANOVA at an alpha level of 0.05. Results: Significant differences (p < 0.05) were found for maximal exertions, but this was limited to only the time main effect. No significant differences existed for EMG measures during the SOT. Conclusion: The findings suggest that occupational footwear type does not influence lower extremity muscle activity during both MVIC and SOT. Significantly lower muscle activity during maximal exertions over the course of the 4 h workload was evident, which can be attributed to localized muscular fatigue, but this was not sufficient to impact muscle activity during postural stability tasks.

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