H-Reflex Size in Young and Elderly Adults of Varying Physical Activity Levels

2000 ◽  
Vol 8 (1) ◽  
pp. 20-32 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gordon R. Chalmers ◽  
Kathleen M. Knutzen

The aim of this study was to determine whether elderly and young adults with similar physical activity levels have similar soleus H-wave maximum/M-wave maximum ratios (H-reflex size) and to determine the relationship between H-reflex size and physical activity level. H-reflex size and physical activity levels were measured in 18 elderly (71 ± 5.7 years) and 20 young (24 ± 4.2) participants. The physical activity levels of the 2 groups were not significantly different. The elderly group had smaller H-rellexes than the young group (elderly. 36% ± 27%; young, 59% ± 17%; p < .05), but the effect of age on H-reflex size was only moderate (omega squared = .19, effect size = .30). There was a weak tendency for higher levels of physical activity to be associated with larger H reflexes (r = .38, p < .05). The findings indicate that soleus H-reflex size is not strongly associated with age or physical activity level.

2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Paulo José Puccinelli ◽  
Taline Santos da Costa ◽  
Aldo Seffrin ◽  
Claudio Andre Barbosa de Lira ◽  
Rodrigo Luiz Vancini ◽  
...  

Abstract Background The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in a strong negative impact on economic and social life worldwide. It has also negatively influenced people’s general health and quality of life. The aim of the present study was to study the impact of social distancing on physical activity level, and the association between mood state (depression and anxiety level) or sex with actual physical activity levels, the change in physical activity caused by social distancing period, the adhesion level to social distancing, the adoption time of social distancing, family income and age. Methods A self-administered questionnaire with personal, quarantine, physical activity, and mood state disorders information’s was answered by 2140 Brazilians of both sex who were recruited through online advertising. Results The physical activity level adopted during the period of social distancing (3.5 ± 0.8) was lower than that the adopted prior to the pandemic period (2.9 ± 1.1, p < 0.001). Thirty percent of the participants presented symptoms of moderate/severe depression and 23.3% displayed moderate/severe anxiety symptoms. A greater presence of symptoms related to anxiety and depression were associated with low physical activity levels, low family monthly income, and younger age. A higher percentage of men who had no mood disorders was observed among those who were very active than among those less active. Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic has a negative impact on physical activity. Those who reduced their level of physical activity had the highest levels of mood disorders. Therefore, physical activity programs should be encouraged, while respecting the necessary social distancing to prevent the spread of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2.


2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Melissa A. Boswell ◽  
Kris M. Evans ◽  
Sean R. Zion ◽  
Danielle Z. Boles ◽  
Jennifer L. Hicks ◽  
...  

Objectives. We compared mindsets about physical activity among those with and without knee osteoarthritis and investigated if these mindsets relate to physical activity level and symptom management. Methods. Participants with (n=150) and without (n=152) knee osteoarthritis completed an online survey at study enrollment (T1). Participants with knee osteoarthritis repeated the survey three weeks later (T2; n=62). The mindset questionnaire, scored from 1-4, assessed the extent to which individuals associate the process of exercising with less appeal-focused qualities (e.g., boring, painful, isolating, and depriving) vs. appeal-focused (e.g., fun, pleasurable, social, and indulgent) versus. Using linear regression, we examined the relationship between mindset and having knee osteoarthritis, and, in the subgroup of participants with knee osteoarthritis, the relationship between mindset at T1 and physical activity (via the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly) at T2. We also compared mindsets between those who use medication for management and those who use exercise. Results. A less appeal-focused mindset regarding physical activity was marginally associated with having knee osteoarthritis (β=-0.125, P=0.096). Within the knee osteoarthritis group, a more appeal-focused mindset predicted higher future physical activity (β=20.68, P=0.039), controlling for current physical activity, demographics, and health. Individuals that used exercise with or without pain medication or injections had more appeal-focused process mindsets than those who used medication or injections without exercise (P<0.001). Further, the process mindset inventory demonstrated strong internal consistency (α=0.92 at T1 for n=150 and α=0.92 at T2 for n=62) and test-retest reliability (ICC>0.841, P<0.001) within the knee osteoarthritis population. Conclusion. In individuals with knee osteoarthritis, mindsets predict future physical activity levels and relate to an individual's management strategy. Mindsets are a reliable and malleable construct and may be a valuable target for increasing physical activity and improving adherence to rehabilitation strategies involving exercise among individuals with knee osteoarthritis.


2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohammad Azizi ◽  
Alireza Aghababa ◽  
Rastegar Hoseini ◽  
Hadi Rohani ◽  
Maghsoud Nabilpoor

Abstract Background One of the most important consequences of COVID-19 pandemic is anxiety and stress in the general population that can be reduced by regular physical activity. The aim of this study was to estimate the physical activity levels and mood state during covid-19 quarantine among the Kermanshah population. Methods In this cross-sectional study, using the purposeful random sampling method, a total of 2471 subjects ((male (n = 1256) and female (n = 1215)) were selected. To assess the physical activity level from physical activity questionnaire short form (IPAQ-SF) and mood state was measured by the abbreviated form of the Iranian version of the standard POMS questionnaire (Bill Morgan 1979). The descriptive statistic method (mean, standard deviation, and percent), deductive (Chi- square and Spearman's correlation) were used for analyzing the data. Results The results showed that a significant difference was observed between the number of sessions (P = 0.001), intensity (P = 0.001), and duration of exercise (P = 0.001) before and during coronavirus. There are significant positive relationships between low (r = 0.93; P = 0.001) and high (r = 0.673; P = 0.034) levels of physical activity and negative mood state, and a positive relationship between moderate physical activity level (r = 0.82; P = 0.001) and positive mood state. Conclusions It could be determined that the current quarantine has negatively affected the mood state. In general, to prevent COVID-19, regular physical activity is recommended under the health and safety protocols.


Author(s):  
Ezema Charles Ikechukwu ◽  
Mgbeojedo Ukamaka Gloria ◽  
Uchenwoke Chigozie Ikenna ◽  
Ugwueze Vitalis Chinonso ◽  
Uduonu Ekezie Mmanwanne ◽  
...  

Background: Diabetes presents a multifaceted challenge to health systems in Nigeria and beyond. Physical activity is a cornerstone of diabetes management but is often underutilised. Despite the positive effects of physical activity on different dimensions of health to patients with diabetes, most fail to maintain long-term adherence to physical activity programmes. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the physical activity level and factors affecting exercise participation among patients with and without diabetes. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study involving 400 participants recruited by convenience sampling. International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and Exercise Benefit and Barrier Scale (EBBS) questionnaires were used to measure physical activity and perceived benefits and barriers to exercise, respectively. The data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics of percentages and frequency, mean and standard deviation, and independent t-test. The level of significance was set at p<0.05. Results: The majority of the patients with diabetes (71%) had low physical activity levels while 52% of the nondiabetic group were moderately active. There was a significant difference between physical activity levels of patients with diabetes and the nondiabetic group (p<0.05). Physical exertion was reported by both patients with and without diabetes as the greatest barrier to exercise participation. Conclusion: Patients with diabetes in Nigeria have a low level of physical activity and are also faced with certain barriers which limit their participation in exercise programmes. Exercise barrier identification and public awareness on the health benefits of exercise and physical activity in the prevention and management of diabetes should thus be encouraged.


2021 ◽  
Vol 38 (4) ◽  
pp. 550-556
Author(s):  
Sinem SUNER KEKLIK ◽  
Ayse NUMANOLU AKBAS

This study aims to evaluate relationship between physical activity level, smartphone usage, back and neck health during Covid-19 pandemic. Participants between ages of 18-65 were included in study. Smartphone usage was evaluated with Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version, physical activity levels with short form of International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Oswestry Disability Index and Neck Bournemouth Questionnaire was used to evaluate back and neck problems. A total of 251 people (179 women, 72 men, age: 28.11±9.49 years, min-max: 18-62 years) participated in study. 134 participants (53.38%) had low physical activity levels; 35 individuals (13.94%) had sufficient physical activity levels while 82 participants (32.66%) were not physically active. A weak positive correlation was found between neck pain and total score of smartphone addiction scale, daily smartphone usage time, daily smartphone check frequency, and first check time after waking up (r=0.199, r=0.149, r=0.132, respectively). A weak negative correlation was found between neck pain and first check time after waking up (r=-0.145). As a result of study, it was observed that physical activity levels were insufficient in majority of individuals who participated in survey. The relationships we expected between physical activity level, smartphone usage characteristics, low back and neck health could not be demonstrated, only weak relationships were found between some features of smartphone use and neck health. We believe that finding solutions to increase physical activity levels of individuals during pandemic period will have both protective effects on health and will prevent problems by affecting musculoskeletal system positively.


1993 ◽  
Vol 23 (4) ◽  
pp. 743-761 ◽  
Author(s):  
J. Paul Grayson

Over the past few years, research from several countries has demonstrated an association between unemployment and poor health. In addition, a number of studies have established a link between physical activity level and health. As yet, however, there has been no comparison of the physical activity levels of the employed and the unemployed in a national population and of the extent to which the health of the employed and unemployed varies with physical activity levels. The research presented in this article demonstrates that in Canada, while the unemployed report comparable levels of physical activity to the employed, for all levels of physical activity, they are less healthy than the employed, even after adjustments are made for age, gender, and adequacy of family income. The effects of unemployment on health, however, vary by duration of employment. Overall, the findings suggest that some benefits of elevated levels of physical activity are dampened by the consequences of unemployment.


2013 ◽  
Vol 41 (2) ◽  
pp. 345-351 ◽  
Author(s):  
Elizaveta Limenis ◽  
Haddas A. Grosbein ◽  
Brian M. Feldman

Objective.Pain and reduced physical activity levels are common in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Currently, there is no consensus about the role of physical activity in managing pain in JIA. The purpose of our study was to assess the relationship between physical activity level and pain in children ages 11 to 18 years with JIA.Methods.A random sample of 50 patients with JIA were approached by mailed questionnaires. Physical activity was determined using the Physical Activity Questionnaire (PAQ). Pain measures included the Numerical Rating Scale (pain severity), SUPER-KIDZ body diagram (number of painful areas), and the Child Activities Limitations Inventory-21 (pain interference). Generalized linear models were used to assess the relationship between physical activity and pain, as well as the roles of sex and age.Results.The response rate was 84%. Thirty-four respondents completed the questionnaire package. The median age was 15 years. The mean PAQ score was 2.16/5. Physical activity declines with increasing age in youth with JIA (r = 0.53, p = 0.0014). Lower physical activity is associated with greater pain interference (r = 0.39, p = 0.0217) and more severe pain (r = 0.35, p = 0.0422).Conclusion.Children with JIA report significantly less activity than healthy children based on PAQ scores, with physical activity declining throughout adolescence. Physical activity is inversely related to pain interference and severity in children with JIA. Our findings suggest that physical activity interventions may play an important role in the management of pain in JIA.


2014 ◽  
Vol 11 (7) ◽  
pp. 1438-1445
Author(s):  
Roberto Jerônimo dos Santos Silva ◽  
Diego Augusto Santos Silva ◽  
Antônio C. Oliveira

Background:Several studies have shown that physical activity levels have declined in many countries, even with the regular practice of physical education in schools. The purpose of this study was to identify the prevalence of low physical activity levels and associated factors in adolescents enrolled in public high schools in Northeastern Brazil.Methods:The sample was composed of 2259 adolescents (62.3% female) aged 16.26 ± 1.1 years. A questionnaire was applied to collect data on physical activity levels, sociodemographic information, tobacco use and alcohol consumption, nutritional status and sedentary behavior. Descriptive statistics and Poisson regression hierarchized model with Prevalence Rate (PR) and P ≤ .05 were used.Results:Higher prevalence of low physical activity level (89.1%) was observed. It was observed that 19.6% of individuals did not attend physical education classes regularly. Association was identified between low physical activity level and older girls (P = .02) and not attending physical education classes (P < .01). In males, the group most likely to have that low physical activity level was those whose parents studied until three years (P = .04).Conclusions:Low physical activity level was present in most adolescents, more evident in girls. Lifestyle changes are needed, with substitution of sedentary activities for physical and sport activities in schools.


Author(s):  
Magdalena Dąbrowska-Galas ◽  
Jolanta Dąbrowska

Background: Physical activity (PA) is a behavioral modality that may help decrease negative symptoms of menopause and enhance some positive aspects of mental health, including self-esteem. Reduced self-esteem may put menopausal women at higher risk of negative outcomes of menopause and result in a more unpleasant and stressful menopausal experience. The objective of this study was to examine the role of physical activity level on self-esteem in middle-aged women. Methods: Women aged 45–60 from Poland took part in this study. The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, the Menopause Rating Scale and Beck Depression Inventory were used in this study. Results: Among the 111 women, the mean age was 51.7 ± 4.7. The most severe symptoms among studied women concerned sexual problems (1.71 ± 1.5), irritability (1.58 ± 1.37) and joint and muscular discomfort (1.56 ± 1.55). Women with higher total PA level had better self-esteem (p = 0.001). Conclusions: The results of this study showed that physical activity levels can be associated with self-esteem. Most middle-aged women reported high physical activity levels. These results have clinical implications for the inclusion of PA in the lives of middle-aged women to improve self-esteem and mental health.


2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 940-940
Author(s):  
Seong Hyun Moon ◽  
Thurmon Lockhart ◽  
Krupa Doshi

Abstract Lifestyle at the habitation immensely affects the progression of various illnesses, such as Osteoporosis and Parkinson’s disease (PD). These disorders lead patients to a sedentary lifestyle and result in significantly less movement compared to the average healthy individual. The combination of these backgrounds escalates the percentage of fall incidents. Quantifying physical activity levels from longitudinal Activities of Daily Living (ADL) data of these disease patients could stipulate intuition of their fall mechanisms. The objective of this study is to compare the osteoporosis, Parkinson's disease, and healthy group’s physical activity level from their ADL. For this study total of eighteen subjects participated (healthy=6, osteoporosis=6, PD=6). The result indicated that the dynamic physical activity level for the healthy subject was 13.2%, the osteoporosis subject was 7.9%, and the PD subject was 7.0%. This indicates that there was a significant decline in physical activity level for the PD compared to healthy subjects (P=0.0024*). Also, a comparison between healthy and osteoporosis subjects showed a significant difference (P=0.0066*). Lastly, the physical activity level of PD and osteoporosis subjects did not have a significant difference among them (P=0.6276). The aim of this study was to evaluate the physical activity level of the osteoporosis, PD, and healthy subjects. The systematic approach of collecting physical activity levels with the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) device allowed researchers to collect the quantitative data of ADL. In this experiment, healthy subjects were significantly more physically active compared to osteoporosis and PD patients.


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