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9 pages, 7624 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Isometric Force–Time Curve Assessment: Accuracy, Precision, and Repeatability of a Mobile Application and Portable and Lightweight Device

by Dario Santos, Alfredo Bravo-Sánchez, Leonardo Alexandre Peyré-Tartaruga, Franco Simini and Rodrigo Zacca

Sports 2024, 12(10), 268; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports12100268 - 7 Oct 2024

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Abstract

Strength assessment is one of the main fields in sports performance, physical rehabilitation, physical activity, and health. We aimed to compare maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVICs) and paired voluntary isometric contractions (VICs) of knee extensors between an isokinetic dynamometer (BIODEX) and a portable [...] Read more.

Strength assessment is one of the main fields in sports performance, physical rehabilitation, physical activity, and health. We aimed to compare maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVICs) and paired voluntary isometric contractions (VICs) of knee extensors between an isokinetic dynamometer (BIODEX) and a portable and lightweight device (DINABANG). From 19 volunteers (age: 28.7 ± 7 years; body mass: 72 ± 10 kg; and height: 173 ± 7 cm) we obtained 114 paired MVIC measures and, from the force–time curves of these repetitions, 22,507 paired VIC measures of knee extensors. We observed “excellent” repeatability for MVICs (ICC:1.00; p < 0.001) between BIODEX (247 ± 79.5 Nm) and DINABANG (247 ± 74.8 Nm), with “trivial” effect (mean difference: 0.12 Nm (0.02%); 95%CI: −0.13 to 0.23 Nm; p = 0.606; d = 0.048). Bland–Altman plots revealed high accuracy for MVIC (bias: 0.12 Nm) and consistent distribution (precision) inside the limits of agreement (−4.81 to 5.06 Nm) and respective 95%CI. “Excellent” repeatability was also observed for VICs (ICC:1.00; p < 0.001) between BIODEX (219 ± 84.1 Nm) and DINABANG (218 ± 84.0 Nm), with “trivial” effect (0.24 Nm (0.11%); 0.08 to 0.11 Nm; p < 0.001; d = 0.100). Bland–Altman plots revealed high accuracy for VICs (bias: 0.24 Nm) and consistent distribution (precision) inside the limits of agreement (−4.5 to 4.9 Nm) and respective 95%CI. DINABANG is accurate, precise, and reliable in torque measurement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Injuries, Rehabilitation and New Technologies)

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12 pages, 1079 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Higher Unilateral Muscle Imbalance at the Contralateral Knee 6 Months after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

by Leonor López de Dicastillo, Jesús Villalabeitia, Diego Delgado, Cristina Jorquera, Renato Andrade, João Espregueira-Mendes, Patrick Middleton and Mikel Sánchez

Sports 2024, 12(9), 243; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports12090243 - 4 Sep 2024

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Abstract

There are a considerable number of patients who, after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACL), suffer from relapses or reduced performance. Data collected from isokinetic dynamometry can provide useful information on the condition of the knee during rehabilitation. Seventy-one young sports patients with ACL [...] Read more.

There are a considerable number of patients who, after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACL), suffer from relapses or reduced performance. Data collected from isokinetic dynamometry can provide useful information on the condition of the knee during rehabilitation. Seventy-one young sports patients with ACL reconstruction performed concentric (CON) isokinetic dynamometry (CON/CON 90°/s and CON/CON 240°/s) to assess the muscle strength of the quadriceps (Q) and hamstrings (H) in both knees at 6 months after ACL reconstruction. Limb symmetry index (LSI) and the H/Q ratio were calculated. Comparative statistical tests and multivariate regression were performed. At 90°/s, 57 patients (80.3%) had an LSI below 90% for quadriceps and 28 (60.6%) for hamstring. The number of imbalanced patients according to H/Q ratio was higher in the non-operated knee (n = 56, 78.9%) (p < 0.001). At 240°/s, 49 cases (69.1%) had LSI values above 90% for quadriceps and 37 (52.1%) for hamstrings. Regarding H/Q, imbalanced cases were higher in the non-operated limb (n = 60, 84.5%) (p < 0.001). Strength data at 6 months after ACL reconstruction and post-operative rehabilitation indicated greater unilateral (H/Q) muscle imbalance in the non-operated knee than in the operated knee. Most patients did not achieve the adequate LSI values. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Injuries, Rehabilitation and New Technologies)

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19 pages, 2232 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Spine Injuries on Amateur Athletes: An Exploratory Analysis of Sport-Related Patient-Reported Outcomes

by Philipp Raisch, Tabea Hirth, Michael Kreinest, Sven Y. Vetter, Paul A. Grützner and Matthias K. Jung

Sports 2024, 12(8), 213; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports12080213 - 1 Aug 2024

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Abstract

Introduction: There is a lack of information on return to sport and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in amateur athletes after isolated spine injuries. Methods: A single-center cohort study in amateur athletes aged 18 to 60 with isolated spine injuries; clinical data collection and [...] Read more.

Introduction: There is a lack of information on return to sport and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in amateur athletes after isolated spine injuries. Methods: A single-center cohort study in amateur athletes aged 18 to 60 with isolated spine injuries; clinical data collection and follow-up via telephone interview and standardized PROMs (Short-Form 36, Oswestry and Neck Disability Index, Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Pain Visual Analog Scale). Bivariate analyses of potential influencing factors on PROMs were conducted using the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test. p-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: Out of the 80 included participants, 78% (n = 62) were active in sport at follow-up. PROMs were slightly worse than those described for the age-adjusted general population. There were consistent associations of better PROMs with having reached the subjective preinjury level of performance in sport, while injury severity and surgical or conservative therapy did not show consistent associations with PROMs. Conclusion: Most amateur athletes resume their sports activity after a spine injury. Better outcomes are associated with individuals’ resumption of sport and subjective level of performance, while injury severity and surgical or conservative therapy do not show consistent associations with PROMs, highlighting the importance of patient education, rehabilitation, and encouragement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Injuries, Rehabilitation and New Technologies)

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14 pages, 913 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Predictive Validity of Multifactorial Injury Risk Models and Associated Clinical Measures in the U.S. Population

by Adam C. Eckart, Pragya Sharma Ghimire and James Stavitz

Sports 2024, 12(5), 123; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports12050123 - 28 Apr 2024

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Abstract

Background: Popular movement-based injury risk screens were shown to lack predictive precision, leading to interest in multifactorial models. Furthermore, there is a lack of research regarding injury risk assessment for those currently or planning to be recreationally active. This study aims to provide [...] Read more.

Background: Popular movement-based injury risk screens were shown to lack predictive precision, leading to interest in multifactorial models. Furthermore, there is a lack of research regarding injury risk assessment for those currently or planning to be recreationally active. This study aims to provide injury risk insights by analyzing multifactorial injury risk models and associated clinical measures in the U.S. population. Methods: Data related to injury, inflammatory markers, physical functioning, body composition, physical activity, and other variables from 21,033 respondents were extracted from NHANES. Odds ratios for self-reported injury were calculated for single predictors and risk models. Case–control and principal component analyses (PCA) were conducted to elucidate confounders and identify risk factor clusters, respectively. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to test the precision of a risk factor cluster to identify pain points and functional difficulties. Results: Sociodemographic, individual, and lifestyle factors were strongly associated with higher odds of injury. Increases in fibrinogen and C-reactive protein were significantly associated with all risk groups. Membership to the high-risk group (age over 40, obesity, no muscle-strengthening activities, sedentary lifestyle, and low back pain) predicted at least one functional difficulty with 67.4% sensitivity and 87.2% specificity. In the injury group, bone turnover markers were higher, yet confounded by age, and there was a significantly higher prevalence of self-reported osteoporosis compared to the control. In males, low testosterone was associated with injury, and high estradiol was associated with pain and functional difficulties. In females, high follicle-stimulating hormone was associated with functional difficulties. PCA revealed four high-risk profiles, with markers and activities showing distinct loadings. Conclusions: A comprehensive approach to injury risk assessment should consider the nexus of aging, lifestyle, and chronic disease to enhance tailored injury prevention strategies, fostering safe and effective physical activity participation and reducing the burden of musculoskeletal disorders. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Injuries, Rehabilitation and New Technologies)

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9 pages, 1090 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Applicability of the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool in Elite Volleyball Athletes: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study

by Flavia Figlioli, Giacomo Belmonte, Valerio Giustino, Alberto Canzone, Elena Ferrantello, Marco Gervasi, Eneko Fernández-Peña, Giuseppe Battaglia, Antonino Bianco and Antonino Patti

Sports 2024, 12(3), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports12030071 - 5 Mar 2024

Viewed by 2308

Abstract

Background: The ease of administration of the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) could represent a methodology for periodically evaluating athletes, preventing ankle instability injuries. This study aimed to achieve three objectives: (a) to evaluate the applicability of the CAIT scale in volleyball; (b) [...] Read more.

Background: The ease of administration of the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) could represent a methodology for periodically evaluating athletes, preventing ankle instability injuries. This study aimed to achieve three objectives: (a) to evaluate the applicability of the CAIT scale in volleyball; (b) to explore whether ankle instability presents a greater risk in lower-level volleyball categories and whether elite athletes demonstrate an ability to mitigate this risk; and (c) to identify potential predictors of ankle instability. Methods: Eighty female volleyball players participated in this cross-sectional observational study. The CAIT was administered to evaluate the athletes belonging to some teams in Series A, B, and C. Results: The Spearman’s ranks correlation coefficient showed significant correlations between CAIT items. Additionally, the Cronbach’s α showed a high internal consistency. Our results showed a significant difference between athletes who reported pain and those who did not (p < 0.001). The multiple linear regression model analysis showed that pain was a predictor of ankle instability (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the CAIT can be used to evaluate ankle stability in volleyball players. This scale could represent a valuable tool for implementing specific intervention programs to prevent ankle injuries in athletes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Injuries, Rehabilitation and New Technologies)

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18 pages, 2619 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analyzing Injury Patterns in Climbing: A Comprehensive Study of Risk Factors

by Markéta Kovářová, Petr Pyszko and Kateřina Kikalová

Sports 2024, 12(2), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports12020061 - 19 Feb 2024

Viewed by 5048

Abstract

Climbing, a sport with increasing popularity, poses diverse risks and injury patterns across its various disciplines. This study evaluates the incidence and nature of climbing-related injuries, focusing on how different disciplines and climbers’ personal characteristics affect these injuries. Data on injury incidence, severity, [...] Read more.

Climbing, a sport with increasing popularity, poses diverse risks and injury patterns across its various disciplines. This study evaluates the incidence and nature of climbing-related injuries, focusing on how different disciplines and climbers’ personal characteristics affect these injuries. Data on injury incidence, severity, and consequences, as well as climbers’ personal attributes, were collected through a questionnaire and analyzed using generalized linear models and generalized linear mixed models, Cochran–Armitage tests, and multivariate analysis. Our findings indicate a direct correlation between time spent on bouldering and lead climbing and increased injury frequency, while injury incidence decreases with time in traditional climbing. Interestingly, personal characteristics showed no significant impact on injury incidence or severity. However, distinct patterns emerged in individual disciplines regarding the recent injuries in which age and weight of climbers play a role. While the phase of occurrence and duration of consequences show no significant variation across disciplines, the intensity of the required treatment and causes of injury differ. This research provides insights into climbing injuries’ complex nature, highlighting the need for tailored preventive strategies across climbing disciplines. It underscores the necessity for further investigation into the factors contributing to climbing injuries, advocating for more targeted injury prevention and safety measures in this evolving sport. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Injuries, Rehabilitation and New Technologies)

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13 pages, 964 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biomechanical Factors Predisposing to Knee Injuries in Junior Female Basketball Players

by Néstor Pérez Mallada, María Jesús Martínez Beltrán, María Ana Saenz Nuño, Ana S. F. Ribeiro, Ignacio de Miguel Villa, Carlos Miso Molina, Ana María Echeverri Tabares, Andrés Paramio Santamaría and Hugo Lamas Sánchez

Sports 2024, 12(2), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports12020060 - 16 Feb 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2644

Abstract

This cross-sectional observational study aims to determine isokinetic normality data at different speeds, and isometric data of ankle and knee joints, in healthy basketball players aged 15–16 years old. The participants were recruited through non-probabilistic convenience sampling. Sociodemographic, anthropometric, and biomechanical variables were [...] Read more.

This cross-sectional observational study aims to determine isokinetic normality data at different speeds, and isometric data of ankle and knee joints, in healthy basketball players aged 15–16 years old. The participants were recruited through non-probabilistic convenience sampling. Sociodemographic, anthropometric, and biomechanical variables were collected. The study involved 42 participants. Right-leg dominance was higher in women (85.7%) than in men (78.6%). Men had a higher weight, height, and body mass index compared to women. Statistically significant differences were observed between sex and height (p < 0.001). Significant differences were found between sexes in knee flexor and extensor strength at different isokinetic speeds (30°, 120°, and 180°/s), except for the maximum peak strength knee flexion at 180°/s in the right leg. In the ankle, the variables inversion, eversion, and work strength values at different isokinetic speeds and full RoM, by sex, were not significantly different, except for the right (p = 0.004) and the left (p = 0.035) ankle full RoM. The study found lower knee extensor strength in women, indicating the need to improve knee flexor/extensor strength in women to match that of men, as seen in other joints. The results can guide the development of preventive and therapeutic interventions for lower limb injuries in basketball players. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Injuries, Rehabilitation and New Technologies)

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15 pages, 554 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Dry Needling in Overhead Athletes with Myofascial Shoulder Pain: A Systematic Review

by Andrea Demeco, Alessandro de Sire, Antonello Salerno, Nicola Marotta, Stefano Palermi, Antonio Frizziero and Cosimo Costantino

Sports 2024, 12(6), 156; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports12060156 - 5 Jun 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2062

Abstract

The treatment of myofascial pain in athletes requires a set of rehabilitation techniques that aim to be effective quickly. In this context, dry needling (DNY) has shown interesting results due to its ability to reduce pain in the short term. Thus, the aim [...] Read more.

The treatment of myofascial pain in athletes requires a set of rehabilitation techniques that aim to be effective quickly. In this context, dry needling (DNY) has shown interesting results due to its ability to reduce pain in the short term. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the role of DNY in managing myofascial shoulder pain in overhead athletes. PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science were screened up to March 2024, to identify studies that met the following inclusion criteria: overhead athletes with shoulder pain with a DNY approach for myofascial trigger points (MTrPs), RCT, case–control study, feasibility study as the study design. Exclusion criteria were studies that did not include athletes, studies that did not focus on the treatment of MTrPs with DNY, other reviews, no full-text availability and papers written in a language other than English. Out of 399 articles, 165 were excluded as duplicates. Of the 234 articles screened, only 6 articles met the inclusion criteria. A total of 6 studies were included in the systematic review. Initial results showed that DNY improved pain rapidly and in the short term; however, there is still no consensus on the minimum number and the interval between treatments. Major findings reported a rapid potential decrease in perceived pain, shoulder disability and an increase in muscle strength; in this scenario, DNY might be a valid solution in a sports rehabilitation setting. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport Injuries, Rehabilitation and New Technologies)

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