scholarly journals Changes in The Functional Parameters of Balance and Lower Extremities of Adolescent Short and Long-Distance Runners After Exercises on Unstable Surfaces

2019 ◽  
Vol 2 (113) ◽  
Author(s):  
Miglė Bielskytė ◽  
Toma Petkutė ◽  
Renata Žumbakytė-Šermukšnienė
Keyword(s):  
Muscle Strength ◽  
Lower Extremity ◽  
Lower Extremities ◽  
Calf Muscle ◽  
Distance Runner ◽  
Test Results ◽  
Distance Runners ◽  
Long Distance ◽  
Balance Test ◽  
Before And After

Background. Results from the previous studies indicated benefits of training on unstable surfaces in various populations. Drawing upon them we hypothesized that training on unstable surfaces would help runners improve balance and lower extremity functional indicators.Methods. The study included 20 adolescent athletes from Kaunas sports school “Startas”, aged 12–13 years, boys and girls running short and long distances. Their training consisted of 20 minute exercises on unstable surfaces performed two times a week. Participants were tested before and after applying the program. The tests applied were Y balance test, calf muscle strength testing with a Lafayette dynamometer, Single-legged Hop tests, T-test.Results. Groups of short- and long- distance runners had better (p < .05) calf muscle strength of both legs after exercises on unstable surfaces program. Both groups also improved 6 m HOP test results of both lower extremities (p < .05). Some of the dynamic balance indicators statistically significantly improved after exercises on unstable surfaces in the groups of short- and long- distance adolescent runners. T-test results after exercises on unstable surface program improved (p < .05) in long- distance runner group (from 14.03 (12.44; 14.95; 13.85) s to 13.94 (12.36; 14.52; 13.65) s) and there were differences between short- and long- distance runner groups before and after exercises on unstable surfaces (p < .05).Conclusion. This research showed that training on unstable surfaces helps runners to improve balance and lower extremity functional indicators and we recommend to include exercises on unstable surfaces to their training.

scholarly journals Comparison of Y-Balance Test Performance by maturation status in youth distance runners

2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (7_suppl3) ◽  
pp. 2325967121S0008
Author(s):  
Mitchell J. Rauh ◽  
Micah C. Garcia ◽  
David M. Bazett-Jones ◽  
Jason T. Long ◽  
Kevin R. Ford ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Muscle Strength ◽  
Quadriceps Muscle ◽  
Limb Length ◽  
Distance Running ◽  
Distance Runners ◽  
Long Distance ◽  
Balance Test ◽  
Convenience Sample ◽  
Quadriceps Muscle Strength ◽  
Increased Risk

Background: Distance running is a popular interscholastic sport, but also has an associated high risk of running-related injuries. Recent literature suggests that functional tests may help to identify athletes at increased risk of injury. The Y-Balance Test (YBT) is an objective measure used to assess functional muscle strength and balance and to expose asymmetries between tested limbs. Purpose: To determine if YBT performance was associated with maturation status in healthy, youth distance runners. We hypothesized that mid-pubertal (MP) runners would demonstrate less functional reach distance than pre-pubertal (PrP) or post-pubertal (PoP) runners. Methods: A convenience sample of 142 (Females: n=79, Males: n=63) uninjured youth runners (ages 13.5±2.7 years; weekly running distance: 18.2±20.4 km) were recruited from the local community. All runners met inclusion criteria, indicating that they were between 9 and 19 years old and participated in long-distance running activities such as school/club track and field, cross country, road races, trail running, and/or soccer. The runners completed a modified Pubertal Maturational Observation Scale (PMOS), then were screened for right (R) and left (L) anterior (ANT), posteromedial (PM) and posterolateral (PL) reach distances (cm) normalized by lower limb length (cm). Composite reach distance was calculated by the sum of the three reach distances divided by three times the limb length multiplied by 100 for R and L limbs. ANOVA with Bonferroni post hoc tests were used to compare maximum normalized reach distances for the three directions and composite reach distance by maturation status and sex. Results: Overall, 31.7% were classified as PrP status, 26.1% as MP, and 42.3% as PoP, with similar percentages by sex ( p=0.84). The only significant mean difference was found for R ANT maximum normalized reach distance between PrP and PoP ( p=0.02), indicating a greater normalized reach in PrP athletes. No significant mean differences were found for R or L PM and PL maximum normalized reach distances, or for R or L composite reach distances, by maturation status or when stratified by maturation and sex ( p>0.05). Conclusions: In this sample of youth runners, the YBT was only a discriminator of anterior reach distance between pre-pubertal and post-pubertal runners. As decreased anterior reach is associated with reduced quadriceps muscle strength and anterior knee pain, reduced anterior reach in post-pubertal runners may potentially signify an increased risk of sustaining a running-related injury. Thus, preventive efforts to ensure good functional quadriceps muscle strength may be merited.

scholarly journals The relationship between lower limb maximal and explosive strength and change of direction ability: Comparison of basketball and tennis players, and long-distance runners

PLoS ONE ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 16 (8) ◽  
pp. e0256347
Author(s):  
Žiga Kozinc ◽  
Darjan Smajla ◽  
Nejc Šarabon
Keyword(s):  
Muscle Strength ◽  
Lower Limb ◽  
Trunk Muscles ◽  
Distance Runners ◽  
Long Distance ◽  
Basketball Players ◽  
Tennis Players ◽  
Change Of Direction ◽  
Explosive Strength ◽  
The Relationship

Change-of-direction (CoD) ability is an important determinant of athletic performance. Muscle strength is among the most important determinants of CoD ability. However, previous studies investigating the relationship between CoD ability and muscle strength focused mostly on flexor and extensor muscle groups, or used multi-joint exercises, such as jumps, squats or mid-thigh pull. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the relationship between CoD ability and strength of ankle, knee, hip and trunk maximal and explosive strength. The participants (n = 327), consisting of male and female basketball players, tennis players and long-distance runners completed isometric strength assessments and CoD testing (90° and 180° turn tests). The times of both CoD tests were associated with muscle strength (peak torques and the rate of torque development variables), with correlation coefficients being mostly weak to moderate (r = 0.2–0.6). Strength variables explained 33%, 62% and 48% of the variance in the 90° turn task, and 42%, 36% and 59% of the variance in the 180° turn task, in basketball players, long-distance runners and tennis players, respectively. Hip and trunk muscle strength variables were the most prevalent in the regression models, especially hip adduction and abduction strength. Our results suggest that the strength of several lower limb muscles, in particular of the hip abductors and adductors, and trunk muscles, but also hip rotators, extensors and flexors, as well as knee and ankle flexors and extensors should be considered when aiming to improve CoD performance.

scholarly journals Lower-Extremity Strength Differences Predict Activity Limitations in People With Chronic Stroke

2009 ◽  
Vol 89 (1) ◽  
pp. 73-81 ◽  
Author(s):  
Patricia Kluding ◽  
Byron Gajewski
Keyword(s):  
Body Mass Index ◽  
Muscle Strength ◽  
Lower Extremity ◽  
Body Mass ◽  
Gait Speed ◽  
Lower Extremities ◽  
Chronic Stroke ◽  
Functional Balance ◽  
Lower Extremity Strength ◽  
Strength Difference

BackgroundBody system impairments following stroke have a complex relationship with functional activities. Although gait and balance deficits are well-documented in people after stroke, the overlapping influence of body impairments makes it difficult to prioritize interventions.ObjectiveThis study examined the relationship between prospectively selected measures of body function and structure (body mass index, muscle strength, sensation, and cognition) and activity (gait speed, gait endurance, and functional balance) in people with chronic stroke.DesignThis was a cross-sectional, observational study.MethodsTwenty-six individuals with mean (SD) age of 57.6 (11) years and time after stroke of 45.4 (43) months participated. Four variables (body mass index, muscle strength difference between the lower extremities, sensation difference between the lower extremities, and Mini-Mental Status Exam score) were entered into linear regression models for gait speed, Six-Minute Walk Test distance, and Berg Balance Scale score.ResultsLower-extremity strength difference was a significant individual predictor for gait speed, gait endurance, and functional balance. Cognition significantly predicted only gait speed.LimitationsThe authors did not include all possible factors in the model that may have influenced gait and balance in these individuals.ConclusionsStrength deficits in the hemiparetic lower extremity should be an important target for clinical interventions to improve function in people with chronic stroke.

scholarly journals Relationship between Nonspecific Low Back Pain and Physical Function among Japanese High School Long-distance Runners

2021 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. p1
Author(s):  
K. Nakagawa ◽  
A. Mitomo ◽  
Y. Takahashi
Keyword(s):  
High School ◽  
Low Back Pain ◽  
Back Pain ◽  
Muscle Strength ◽  
Low Back ◽  
Distance Runners ◽  
Long Distance ◽  
Pain Group ◽  
History Of ◽  
Hip Extension

Background: For long-distance runners, low back pain as well as lower extremity disorders are becoming more common. This study analyzed the relationship between regular physical assessment results and nonspecific low back pain among long-distance runners. Methods: Subjects included 105 high school long-distance runners, who were divided into the low back pain group (n = 20; LP) and non-pain group (n = 85; NP). All subjects underwent regular chronic pain and physical assessments every six months. Differences in each measurement between both groups were analyzed using an unpaired t-test for comparison.Results: The LP had a shorter history of athletics (LP=3.2 years, NP=4.6 years, 95% confidence interval (95%CI): -2.55, -0.28, r=0.45), a greater hip extension angle (LP=32.7°, NP=28.4°, 95% CI: 2.85, 5.61, r=0.67), a lower hip extension muscle strength (LP=3.1 kgf/kg, NP=4.0 kgf/kg, 95% CI; 0.19, 0.61, r=0.45), and a greater number of times during the stand-up test (LP=11.1, NP=8.1, 95% CI; 0.40, 5.56, r=0.45) than the NP.Conclusion: An excessive hip extension angle and insufficient hip extension muscle strength were considered as risk factors. It is possible that the excessive movement of the hip joint and the biarticular muscles may have caused the low back pain in the inexperienced runners.

scholarly journals Effects of Kinesio Taping with Squat Exercise on the Muscle Activity, Muscle Strength, Muscle Tension, and Dynamic Stability of Softball Players in the Lower Extremities: A Randomized Controlled Study

2021 ◽  
Vol 19 (1) ◽  
pp. 276
Author(s):  
Hyeon-Hee Kim ◽  
Kyung-Hun Kim
Keyword(s):  
Muscle Strength ◽  
Lower Extremity ◽  
Dynamic Stability ◽  
Muscle Activity ◽  
Muscle Tone ◽  
Lower Extremities ◽  
Controlled Study ◽  
Kinesio Taping ◽  
Lower Extremity Muscle ◽  
Squat Exercise

Background and purpose: Knee injuries are common among female softball players, and the stability of the lower extremities and the strength of the knee are essential factors for them. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of Kinesio taping with squat exercise (KTSE) on lower extremity muscle activity, muscle strength, muscle tone, and dynamic stability of softball players. Methods: In this study, 40 softball players were randomly assigned to the KTSE group and sham taping with squat exercise (SKTSE) group. All subjects were tested three times a week for 6 weeks, i.e., for a total of 18 times. To evaluate the lower-extremity muscle activity, muscle strength, and muscle tone of the lower extremities, as well as dynamic stability, we used Noraxon Mini DTS, a digital muscular meter from JTech Medical, MyotonPRO, and the side hop test (a clinical evaluation method), respectively. These items were measured before the experiment and 6 weeks after the start of the experiment. Results: Both groups showed significant differences in lower-extremity muscle activity, muscle strength, muscle tone, and dynamic stability (p < 0.05). After the experiment, significant effects on lower-extremity muscle activity, muscle strength, muscle tone, and dynamic stability were observed in the KTSE group compared with in the SKTSE group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: KTSE did not have a negative effect on all items of the functional performance test. KTSE improved lower-extremity muscle activity, muscle strength, muscle tone, and dynamic stability.

scholarly journals Effects of the Non-Face-To-Face Learning on Health-Related Physical Fitness and Balance in Adolescents According to COVID-19

2021 ◽  
Vol 30 (2) ◽  
pp. 229-236
Author(s):  
Kwang-Jin Lee ◽  
Kyong-Won Seo ◽  
Keun-Ok An
Keyword(s):  
Muscle Strength ◽  
Physical Fitness ◽  
Knee Extension ◽  
Female Group ◽  
Balance Test ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Before And After ◽  
Health Related ◽  
Face To Face Learning ◽  
Hip Extension

PURPOSE:This study aimed to examine the effects of non-face-to-face learning on health-related physical fitness and balance in adolescents according to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).METHODS:Twenty-nine middle-school students (14 girls and 15 boys) were enrolled. We measured the students’ health-related physical fitness (body composition, muscle strength, muscle endurance, flexibility, and cardiac endurance) and balance (static and dynamic) before and after 12 weeks of non-face-to-face learning without any exercise intervention. Cardiac endurance was measured using the Harvard step test.RESULTS: Body fat, muscle strength (hip flexion, hip extension, knee flexion, knee extension), and Y-balance test exhibited significant differences before and after non-face-to-face learning (<i>p</i><.05). Body fat, muscle strength (hip flexion, hip extension), and Y-Balance test exhibited significant differences in the female group (<i>p</i><.05). Hip extension muscle strength exhibited a significant difference in the male group (<i>p</i><.05). Analysis of covariance showed that muscle strength (hip extension and knee extension) and Harvard step of the female group were significantly decreased compared to the male group (<i>p</i><.05).CONCLUSIONS: Non-face-to-face classes according to COVID-19 had a negative effect on health-related physical fitness and balance in adolescents. Particularly, the muscle strength and cardiac endurance of female adolescents were lower than those of male adolescents.

An evaluation of the lower extremity muscle strength of patients with chronic venous insufficiency

2015 ◽  
Vol 31 (3) ◽  
pp. 203-208 ◽  
Author(s):  
Cem Cetin ◽  
Mustafa O Serbest ◽  
Sabriye Ercan ◽  
Turhan Yavuz ◽  
Ali Erdogan
Keyword(s):  
Muscle Strength ◽  
Lower Extremity ◽  
Visual Analog Scale ◽  
Chronic Venous Insufficiency ◽  
Venous Insufficiency ◽  
Plantar Flexion ◽  
Lower Extremities ◽  
Analog Scale ◽  
Lower Extremity Muscle ◽  
Significant Difference

Objective In this study, the aim was to evaluate the lower extremity muscle strength in patients with chronic venous insufficiency using an isokinetic dynamometer. Methods The study comprised a group of 36 lower extremities of 23 patients diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency and a control group of 40 lower extremities of 20 patients who did not have chronic venous insufficiency. In the diagnosis and evaluation of chronic venous insufficiency, photoplethysmography was used to evaluate the venous return circulation time. Visual Analog Scale scoring was applied to define the level of pain of the patients. Muscle strength measurements were made in all the lower extremities by using an isokinetic dynamometer. Results A statistically significant difference was detected between the groups in terms of the muscle strength parameters in the ankle plantar flexion, and knee flexor and extensor muscles. However, no statistically significant difference was found between the groups in the ankle dorsiflexion muscle strength parameters. A significant difference was determined in the ratio of ankle dorsiflexion/plantar flexion muscle strength between the mild, moderate and severe venous insufficiency groups. A statistically considerable negative correlation was found between the Visual Analog Scale scores and the photoplethysmography results. According to the Visual Analog Scale results, as the degree of venous insufficiency increased, so did the level of pain. Conclusion Impaired lower extremity muscle strength was observed in chronic venous insufficiency patients. Although the current study was consistent with literature in respect of impaired calf muscle strength, this finding was also seen in the thigh muscles. Furthermore, we concluded that if venous insufficiency becomes more severe, impaired calf muscle strength becomes more evident.

scholarly journals Incidence and determinants of lower extremity running injuries in long distance runners: a systematic review * COMMENTARY

2007 ◽  
Vol 41 (8) ◽  
pp. 469-480 ◽  
Author(s):  
R N van Gent ◽  
D Siem ◽  
M van Middelkoop ◽  
A G van Os ◽  
S M A Bierma-Zeinstra ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Lower Extremity ◽  
Distance Runners ◽  
Long Distance ◽  
Running Injuries

Functional Asymmetries and Lateral Dominance in the Lower Limbs of Distance Runners

1991 ◽  
Vol 7 (4) ◽  
pp. 311-329 ◽  
Author(s):  
George Vagenas ◽  
Blaine Hoshizaki
Keyword(s):  
Data Analysis ◽  
Lower Extremity ◽  
Range Of Motion ◽  
Subtalar Joint ◽  
Lower Extremities ◽  
Lower Limbs ◽  
Distance Runners ◽  
Functional Parameters ◽  
Knee Strength ◽  
Total Range

This study investigated the phenomenon of lower extremity functional asymmetries in a group of competitive male distance runners (N= 29). Bilateral measurements were taken to assess selected variables of the talocalcaneal flexibility (goniometry) and of the isokinetic knee strength (Cybex II). Data analysis revealed significant asymmetries for both lower extremity functional parameters. The subjects were symmetric in the total range of motion of the subtalar joint and inversely asymmetric in the range of motion of calcaneal eversion and calcaneal inversion. The laterality patterns of functional asymmetries were found to be consistent and independent of the conventional upper and lower extremity lateral preferences. It was theorized that asymmetries in the lower extremities are characterized by joint-specific trends of bilateralism.

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