Efecto del curso avanzado de combate sobre cualidades físicas condicionantes y características antropométricas en alumnos de la Escuela Militar de Cadetes General José María Córdova de Bogotá D.C. (Effect of the advanced combat course on conditioning phy

El Ejército Nacional de Colombia garantiza la formación de sus alumnos a partir del curso avanzado de combate, que simulan operaciones militares reales. Este artículo busca determinar el efecto del curso avanzado de combate sobre cualidades físicas y antropométricas en alumnos de la Escuela Militar. Para ello se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo con componente analítico, cuyos sujetos fueron medidos antes y después del Curso de Combate. La muestra incluyó 113 participantes, 26 mujeres y 87 hombres con edades promedio de 22 ± 1,3 años, pertenecientes a la Escuela Militar de Cadetes de Colombia. Las variables que se midieron fueron peso, talla, perímetro de cintura e Índice de masa corporal, el VO2 máximo indirecto con el test de Leger, la fuerza máxima del cuadrante superior con el press banca acoplado al sistema T-Force®, fuerza prensil y de espalda con dinamometría y la flexibilidad con el test Sit and Reach. Se evidenciaron cambio significativo: controladas por género: perímetro de cintura p <.001, IMC p = .000847, flexibilidad p =.0147, dinamometría de espalda p = 5.12e-05 y la variable RM p = 9.26e-06; controlando por género y lateralidad: fuerza prensil izquierda p <.001. Se logró evidenciar una reducción del IMC y perímetro de cintura. Existe un incremento de la fuerza isométrica extensora de tronco con disminución de la flexibilidad lumbar e isquiotibial, generando rigidez, estabilidad del tronco permitiendo soportar posturas y cargas. Se presentaron mejoras de fuerza máxima en miembros superiores y fuerza prensil izquierda, mejorando la capacidad de mantener cargas. Abstract. The National Army of Colombia guarantees the education of their students from advanced combat courses, which simulate real military operations. This article seeks to determines the effect of the advanced combat course on physical qualities and anthropometric characteristics in students of the Military School. For this, an observational, descriptive study with an analytical component was carried out, whose subjects were measured before and after the Combat Course. The sample included 113 participants, 26 women and 87 men with an average age of 22 ± 1.3 years, belonging to the Colombian Military Cadet School. The variables that were measured were weight, height, waist circumference and body mass index, the maximum indirect VO2 with the Leger test, the maximum force of the upper quadrant with the bench press coupled to the T-Force® system, prehensile and back strength with dynamometry and flexibility with the Sit and Reach test. Results: The following variables showed change: controlled by gender: waist circumference p <.001, BMI p = .000847, flexibility p = .0147, back dynamometry p = 5.12e 05 and the variable RM p = 9.26e-06; controlling for gender and laterality: left grip strength p <.001. There was a reduction of BMI and waist circumference and significant increase in isometric trunk extensor force with decreased lumbar and hamstring flexibility, which generates rigidity, stability of the trunk allowing to support postures and loads. Students developed superior levels of maximum strength in upper limbs and left prehensile strength, improving the ability to hold loads.

The The Isokinetic Rugby Union Physical Work Evaluation (RUPWE) protocol: Can Rugby Union Players meet the physical work demands of the game?

Background: To protect the lumbar spine from excessive forces, rugby union players need to demonstrate the work ability of the trunk extensors and flexors to meet the physical demands. Aim: To measure and evaluate whether rugby union players were able to meet the imposed physical work demand, considering limitations, tolerances and resistance to fatigue, using isokinetic dynamometry for trunk extensors (TE) and trunk flexors (TF). Methods: Fifty-five male players, between the ages of 18 and 23 years, participated in the study. All participants completed a PAR-Q (pre-activity risk) questionnaire before the isokinetic testing. Their height was between 1.80 ± 0.67 m and body mass was 86.0 ± 17.5 kg. Participants were subjected to a newly designed protocol using the Biodex Isokinetic System 3 Dynamometer, called the Rugby Union Physical Work Evaluation (RUPWE). Results: There was a significant difference between the forwards’ trunk extensor peak torque to body weight 488% ± 119% and the trunk flexor peak torque to body weight 289% ± 73%. Furthermore, there was a large effect size between trunk extensor and trunk flexor muscle performance for the forwards (d =2.0) and backs (d =1.9) for peak torque to body weight. Spearman’s rank-order correlations (rs) showed a moderate negative correlation for the forwards between trunk extensor peak torque to body weight and time to peak torque, (rs = -0.4; p=0.018). There is a strong negative correlation for the backs between trunk extensor peak torque to body weight and time to peak torque, (rs = -0.6; p=0.003). Conclusion: The physical work evaluation protocol can be used as a screening tool for rugby players as it measures the extensive mechanical load placed on the lumbar region. This has the potential to evaluate their athletic performance for the demands of tackling and scrumming.

Effects of equine riding on static and dynamic mechanical contraction of the thighs and trunk muscles in inactive women

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: This study investigated whether equine riding affects static or dynamic mechanical contractions on the thighs and trunk muscles in inactive women. METHODS: Participants consisted of 30 women with a mean (SD) age of 21.06 (0.44) years. They were randomly allotted as follows: equine group (EQG, n= 15) and control group (CON, n= 15). Two types of muscle contraction properties in their thighs and trunk were measured through a tensiomyography (static muscle tester) and an isokinetic device (dynamic muscle tester), respectively. Using the body weights of EQG and CON as covariates, a 2-way between-groups multivariate analysis of covariance was used to investigate group differences in the mechanical quantification of the thighs and trunk. RESULTS: The effectiveness of 8 weeks of equine riding was hardly observed in a static muscle test, whereas in the dynamic muscle test, the dominant and non-dominant hip extensor/flexor, the dominant hip abductor/adductor, and trunk extensor in the EQG showed a significant increase, compared to no changes in the CON. CONCLUSIONS: This study did not find any particular differences in a static muscle test in inactive women, but showed improvements in the dynamic mechanical properties of the thighs and trunk, which are major muscle groups related to spinal alignment.

The relationship between rowing-related low back pain and rowing biomechanics: a systematic review

BackgroundLow back pain (LBP) is common in rowers. Understanding rowing biomechanics may help facilitate prevention and improve rehabilitation.ObjectivesTo define the kinematics and muscle activity of rowers and to compare with rowers with current or LBP history.DesignSystematic review.Data sourcesEMBASE, MEDLINE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Web of Science and Scopus from inception to December 2019. Grey literature was searched.Study eligibility criteriaExperimental and non-experimental designs.MethodsPrimary outcomes were kinematics and muscle activity. Modified Quality Index (QI) checklist was used.Results22 studies were included (429 participants). Modified QI score had a mean of 16.7/28 points (range: 15–21). Thirteen studies investigated kinematics and nine investigated muscle activity. Rowers without LBP (‘healthy’) have distinct kinematics (neutral or anterior pelvic rotation at the catch, greater hip range of motion, flatter low back spinal position at the finish) and muscle activity (trunk extensor dominant with less flexor activity). Rowers with LBP had relatively greater posterior pelvic rotation at the catch, greater hip extension at the finish and less efficient trunk muscle activity. In both groups fatigue results in increased lumbar spine flexion at the catch, which is greater on the ergometer. There is insufficient evidence to recommend one ergometer type (fixed vs dynamic) over the other to avoid LBP. Trunk asymmetries are not associated with LBP in rowers.ConclusionImproving clinicians’ and coaches’ understanding of safe and effective rowing biomechanics, particularly of the spine, pelvis and hips may be an important strategy in reducing incidence and burden of LBP.

Weight Category-dependent Trunk Muscle Strength and its Relation with LBP in Elite Judokas

Trunk muscle strength (TMS), especially rotator, is an important factor for both athletic performance and injury risks in judokas. However, the characteristics of TMS that depend on weight categories are still unclear. Although inadequate TMS might cause low back pain (LBP), the relationship between these two variables is not fully understood. In this study, weight category-dependent TMS and its relationship with LBP was investigated in Japanese judokas. The subjects were 66 male collegiate judokas, who were classified into the lightweight (N=14), middleweight (N=29) or heavyweight (N=23) category. The peak torques of extensor, flexor and rotator muscles were measured. The LBP group and non-LBP group were defined by questionnaire. TMS (normalized by body weight) in the heavier weight category showed a lower tendency in comparison with other categories, except for rotator strength. Significant differences were observed in the extensors (90 and 120 °/s; P<0.05) and flexors (60, 90 and 120 °/s; P<0.05). The LBP group (N=9) only showed significantly lower extensor (60 °/s; P<0.05) and right-rotator (60 °/s; P<0.01) strength in the heavyweight category compared with the non-LBP group (N=14). The relative TMS of judokas decreased in the heavyweight category, except for trunk rotator strength. Notably, low trunk extensor and rotator strengths are risk factors for LBP in heavyweight judokas.

Assessment of isokinetic trunk muscle strength and its association with health-related quality of life in patients with degenerative spinal deformity

Background: A considerable portion of the elderly population are increasingly afflicted by degenerative spinal deformity (DSD), which seriously affects patient health-related quality of life (HRQoL). HRQoL index is used across many studies to show correlations between radio-graphical alignment, disability, and pain in patients with DSD. However, imaged structural deformity represents only one aspect for consideration, namely, the disability effect of DSD. We assessed the isokinetic strength of trunk muscle in patients with degenerative spinal deformity (DSD), and investigated its relationship with HRQoL.Methods: In total, 38 patients with DSD (DSD group) and 32 healthy individuals (control group) were recruited. Both groups were homogeneous for age, weight, height and body mass index (BMI). Assessments were performed using the isokinetic dynamometer IsoMed-2000; trunk extensor, flexor strength and flexion/extension (F/E) ratios were explored concentrically at speeds of 30°, 60° and 120° per second. The grip strength of both hands was measured using a hand-held dynamometer. Visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), a Roland-Morris disability questionnaire (RDQ), and a 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) evaluated patient HRQoL. Correlations between trunk strength and HRQoL were analyzed.Results: When compared with the control group, the DSD group showed lower trunk extensor strength at three velocity movements, and higher F/E ratios at 60° and 120°/s (p < 0.05). Both groups exhibited similar trunk flexor strength and grip strength (p > 0.05). In DSD group，trunk extensor strength at 60°/s was negatively associated with ODI and RDQ (p < 0.05). A negative relationship between trunk flexor strength at 120°/s and ODI was also recorded (p < 0.05). In addition, trunk extensor strength at 60°/s and trunk flexor strength at 120°/s were positively correlated with physical functioning and role-physical scores according to the SF-36 (p < 0.05). Conclusions: We identified isolated trunk extensor myopathy in DSD, which causes an imbalance in trunk muscle strength. Isokinetic trunk extensor strength at 60°/s and trunk flexor strength at 120°/s can predict disability, and decrease physical HRQoL in DSD patients.

Assessment of isokinetic trunk muscle strength and its association with health-related quality of life in patients with degenerative spinal deformity

Background A considerable portion of the elderly population are increasingly afflicted by degenerative spinal deformity (DSD), which seriously affects patient health-related quality of life (HRQoL). HRQoL index is used across many studies to show correlations between radio-graphical alignment, disability, and pain in patients with DSD. However, imaged structural deformity represents only one aspect for consideration, namely, the disability effect of DSD. We assessed the isokinetic strength of trunk muscle in patients with degenerative spinal deformity (DSD), and investigated its relationship with HRQoL. Methods In total, 38 patients with DSD (DSD group) and 32 healthy individuals (control group) were recruited. Both groups were homogeneous for age, weight, height and body mass index (BMI). Assessments were performed using the isokinetic dynamometer IsoMed-2000; trunk extensor, flexor strength and flexion/extension (F/E) ratios were explored concentrically at speeds of 30°, 60° and 120° per second. The grip strength of both hands was measured using a hand-held dynamometer. Visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), a Roland-Morris disability questionnaire (RDQ), and a 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) evaluated patient HRQoL. Correlations between trunk strength and HRQoL were analyzed. Results When compared with the control group, the DSD group showed lower trunk extensor strength at three velocity movements, and higher F/E ratios at 60° and 120°/s (p < 0.05). Both groups exhibited similar trunk flexor strength and grip strength (p > 0.05). In DSD group, trunk extensor strength at 60°/s was negatively associated with ODI and RDQ (p < 0.05). A negative relationship between trunk flexor strength at 120°/s and ODI was also recorded (p < 0.05). In addition, trunk extensor strength at 60°/s and trunk flexor strength at 120°/s were positively correlated with physical functioning and role-physical scores according to the SF-36 (p < 0.05). Conclusions We identified isolated trunk extensor myopathy in DSD, which causes an imbalance in trunk muscle strength. Isokinetic trunk extensor strength at 60°/s and trunk flexor strength at 120°/s can predict disability, and decrease physical HRQoL in DSD patients.

Effects of Manual Therapy and Mechanical Massage on Spinal Alignment, Extension Range of Motion, Back Extensor Electromyographic Activity, and Thoracic Extension Strength in Individuals with Thoracic Hyperkyphosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background. Manual therapy has been recommended to reduce and prevent musculoskeletal problems related to thoracic hyperkyphosis. With recent rapid technological developments, manual techniques can now be implemented by mechanical devices; hence, mechanical massage can manipulate the back muscles and mobilize the spine. Purpose. Here, we aimed to 1) determine the effects of mechanical massage and manual therapy and 2) compare their effects on spinal posture, extension range of motion, trunk extensor electromyographic activity, and thoracic extension strength in individuals with thoracic hyperkyphosis. Methods. Participants with thoracic hyperkyphosis were randomly assigned to the manual therapy (n = 16) or mechanical massage (n = 19) group. Each intervention was applied for 8 weeks. The participants’ spinal posture, extension range of motion, trunk extensor electromyographic activity, and thoracic extension strength were measured before and after intervention. Results. Intergroup analyses revealed no significant differences in any variables. However, thoracic kyphosis angle, thoracic extension range of motion, longissimus thoracis electromyographic activity, iliocostalis lumborum pars lumborum activity, and thoracic extension strength differed significantly in intertime analyses. The results of paired t-test analysis showed that thoracic kyphosis angle, thoracic extension range of motion, longissimus thoracis electromyographic activity, and thoracic extension strength were significantly different after intervention in both groups p < 0.05 . Conclusions. Mechanical massage and manual therapy effectively improve thoracic kyphosis angle, thoracic extension range of motion, and thoracic extension strength. Therefore, mechanical massage is an alternative intervention to manual therapy for improving thoracic kyphosis angle, thoracic extension range of motion, and thoracic extension strength in participants with hyperkyphosis. This trail is registered with KCT0004527.

A Randomized Controlled Trial Investigating the Effects of Equine Simulator Riding on Low Back Pain, Morphological Changes, and Trunk Musculature in Elderly Women

Background and objectives: Studies on the effects of an equine riding simulator (ERS) program on back pain, spinal alignment, and isokinetic moments in subjects with chronic low back pain (CLBP) remain limited. The purpose of this study was to analyze changes in elderly women with CLBP who participate in an ERS program. Materials and Methods: The 80 participants were all women aged 61–84 years who were randomly assigned to either the control group (CON) or ERS group (ERSG). ERS exercise was performed for a duration of 12 weeks (three times each week). The degree of pain was measured using the Oswestry Disability Index and the visual analog scale. Body composition and spinal alignment were measured using bioelectrical impedance and raster stereography. The isokinetic moments of trunk extensor and flexor were measured before and after the training period. Results: The ERSG showed a significant decrease in back pain compared to the CON. There was a significant decrease in levels of fat in the ERSG, although no differences were shown in terms of muscle mass. However, there was an increased basal metabolic rate (BMR) in the ERSG. Spinal alignment in the ERSG significantly improved. The peak torques of the trunk extensor in the ERSG were also significantly increased. Conclusion: It can be inferred that the ERS exercise can decrease fat and improve the trunk extensor strength through increased BMR, leading to better spinal alignment and reducing back pain in elderly women with CLBP.