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Li N, Wang Q, Ai S, He H, He J, Jiang N. Effects of platelet-rich plasma injection on electrical activity and biomechanics of the erector spinae muscles in lumbar myofascial pain syndrome. Sci Rep 2024; 14:21738. [PMID: 39289428 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-72554-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) is a highly prevalent disease. Among the various causes of LBP, one of the most frequent is myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) which affects the spinal stabilizer muscles. The aims of this study were to compare the differences in muscular electrical activity and biomechanical properties between the painful and non-painful sides in patients with unilateral MPS and to verify the feasibility of surface electromyography (sEMG) and MyotonPRO for assisting in MPS assessment. Forty patients with unilateral lumbar MPS were recruited via the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Center of West China Hospital Sichuan University from October 2022 to October 2023. The electrical properties of the bilateral erector spinae muscles were characterized by sEMG signals during a trunk extension task. The following four time-domain features of sEMG were extracted: root mean square (RMS), mean absolute value (MAV), integrated EMG (iEMG), and waveform length (WL). And two frequency domain features were extracted: the median frequency (MDF) and mean power frequency (MPF). The mechanical properties of the muscles were assessed by MyotonPRO at rest. The following biomechanical parameters were acquired: oscillation frequency [Hz], dynamic stiffness [N/m], logarithmic decrement, relaxation time [ms], and Creep. The visual analog scale (VAS) was used to evaluate the pain severity, and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) was used to evaluate the severity of disability and disruption to lifestyle activities caused by LBP pain. The outcome measures were obtained prior to the Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment and repeated two weeks after treatment. (1) Prior to the PRP treatment, all sEMG time-domain features on the painful side were significantly higher than those on the non-painful side (RMS, p < 0.001; MAV, p < 0.001; iEMG, p < 0.001; WL, p = 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in the sEMG frequency-domain features (MPF, p = 0.478; MDF, p = 0.758). On the mechanical side, there were significant differences in oscillation frequency (p = 0.041) and logarithmic decrement (p = 0.022) between the painful side and non-painful side, but no significant differences in dynamic stiffness, relaxation time, and creep (both p > 0.05). (2) Two weeks after the PRP treatment, statistically significant decreases were observed in both post-treatment VAS (p < 0.001) and ODI scales (p < 0.001), indicating the PRP treatment clinically significantly reduced the level of. MPS. This change coincided with all sEMG time-domain features, in which the values at the painful side decreased significantly (RMS, p = 0.001; MAV, p = 0.001; iEMG, p = 0.001; WL, p = 0.001). However, no significant difference in the sEMG frequency-domain features (MPF, p = 0.620; MDF, p = 0.850) was found. On the mechanical side, only logarithmic decrement on the painful side increased significantly (p < 0.001). Our combined MyotonPRO and sEMG results indicated that MPS likely leads to increased muscle tone and decreased muscle elasticity, manifested by abnormal time-domain features of sEMG and biomechanical properties. The changes in these objective measurements were agreed with the changes in subjective outcome measures of pain and function currently assessed in the patients with MPS. A single PRP treatment may alleviate muscle dysfunction caused by MPS. These preliminary results demonstrated the potential feasibility of using sEMG and MyotonPRO as tools for assessing the neuromuscular function of MPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Li
- The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- Medical Equipment Innovation Research Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- The Med-X Center for Manufacturing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Qian Wang
- The Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Shaolong Ai
- The Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Hongchen He
- The Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jiayuan He
- The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- Medical Equipment Innovation Research Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- The Med-X Center for Manufacturing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Ning Jiang
- The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.
- Medical Equipment Innovation Research Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.
- The Med-X Center for Manufacturing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.
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Garzón-Alfaro MT, Cruz-Medel I, Alcaraz-Clariana S, García-Luque L, Carmona-Pérez C, Garrido-Castro JL, Alburquerque-Sendín F, Rodrigues-de-Souza DP. Muscle mechanical properties of pelvic floor and paravertebral muscles in women with and without urge urinary incontinence: a case-control study. Braz J Phys Ther 2024; 28:101114. [PMID: 39260020 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjpt.2024.101114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Muscle mechanical properties (MMPs) are relevant in the pathophysiology of lumbopelvic disorders. However, they have not been described in the pelvic floor muscles (PFM) and lumbar paravertebral muscles (LPM) of women with urge urinary incontinence (UUI). OBJECTIVE To identify differences between MMPs of PFM and LPM in patients with UUI and healthy controls. Secondarily also aimed to observe the relationship between sociodemographic and clinical variables with the PFM and LPM MMPs. METHODS The participants of this case-control study comprised 34 women with UUI (UUI group) and 34 continent women (control group). Sociodemographic variables were obtained together with data on the clinical status of the pelvic floor. The MMPs, i.e., frequency (tone), stiffness, decrement (inverse of elasticity), and viscoelastic properties (VP), such as relaxation time and creep, of PFM and LPM were assessed with a hand-held tonometer. Between-group differences and intra-group correlations were identified. RESULTS The UUI group presented higher frequency and stiffness, as well as lower relaxation time in PFM, whereas the LPM had lower tone and stiffness, and higher VP, compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The UUI group showed a pattern of moderate correlations (|0.403| CONCLUSION The presence of UUI may influence MMPs at PFM and LPM levels, increasing the tone and stiffness of PFM, whereas these properties are reduced in LPM. These findings emphasize the clinical interest of the lumbopelvic determination of MMPs, obtained through externally applied hand-held instruments, in the pathophysiology of UUI.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Teresa Garzón-Alfaro
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Inés Cruz-Medel
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Sandra Alcaraz-Clariana
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Lourdes García-Luque
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Cristina Carmona-Pérez
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Juan Luis Garrido-Castro
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain; Department of Computer Science and Numerical Analysis, Rabanales Campus, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Francisco Alburquerque-Sendín
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain; Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain.
| | - Daiana Priscila Rodrigues-de-Souza
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain; Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
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Trybulski R, Kużdżał A, Wilk M, Więckowski J, Fostiak K, Muracki J. Reliability of MyotonPro in measuring the biomechanical properties of the quadriceps femoris muscle in people with different levels and types of motor preparation. Front Sports Act Living 2024; 6:1453730. [PMID: 39267811 PMCID: PMC11390662 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2024.1453730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this research was to evaluate the reliability of the measurements of biomechanical parameters of the muscles of athletes representing different disciplines as well as untrained people. Ninety-four young, healthy male individuals participated in the study and were divided into five subgroups: footballers (n = 25), volleyballers (n = 14), handballers (n = 19), MMA fighters (n = 16), and undrained group (n = 20). All of the participants underwent measurements of stiffness (S), muscle tone (T) and elasticity (E) by two independent measurers using MyotonPro equipment. Analysis was conducted on two different parts of the quadriceps femoris: rectus femoris (RF) and vastus medialis (VM. Consequently, the comprehensive analysis comprised 564 measurements (94 participants * 3 parameters = 282 * 2 measurers = 564). The results proves high reliability of the myotonometry (Pearson's CC over 0.8208-0.8871 for different parameters, ICC from to 0.74 to 0.99 for different muscles and parameters) excluding only stiffness for the VM which was characterized withlow ICC of 0.08 and relatively highest between the examined parameters MAE% of 8.7% which still remains low value. The most significant differences between the parameters in examined groups were observed between MMA fighters and volleyballers in terms of muscle tone and elasticity of the VM (correlation of 0.14842 and 0.15083 respecitively). These results confirm the usability of myotonometry in measuring the biomechanical properties of the muscles in different sports groups and confirm the independence of the results obtained from the person performing the measurement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Trybulski
- Medical Center Provita Żory, Żory, Poland
- Medical Department, Wojciech Korfanty Upper Silesian Academy, Katowice, Poland
| | - Adrian Kużdżał
- Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, University of Rzeszów, Rzeszów, Poland
| | - Michał Wilk
- Institute of Sports Science, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, Katowice, Poland
| | | | | | - Jarosław Muracki
- Institute of Physical Culture Sciences, Department of Physical Culture and Health, University of Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
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Sipko T, Barczyk-Pawelec K, Piksa M, Mencel J. Impact of Standing and Sitting Postures on Spinal Curvature and Muscle Mechanical Properties in Young Women: A Photogrammetric and MyotonPro Analysis. Med Sci Monit 2024; 30:e944930. [PMID: 39069714 PMCID: PMC11297353 DOI: 10.12659/msm.944930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to evaluate the effect of standing and sitting positions on spinal curvatures evaluated using projection moire and muscle tone and stiffness using the MyotonPRO hand-held device in young women. MATERIAL AND METHODS Thirty-three healthy women, aged 21 to 23 years, volunteered in the study. We used the projection moire method to examine spinal curvatures in both positions and the MyotonPRO device to measure the tone and stiffness of muscles in 3 regions. We evaluated the effects of positions (standing vs sitting), regions (cervical, thoracic, and lumbar), and side factor (right vs left) using multivariate analysis. RESULTS The sitting position significantly decreased the lumbosacral and thoracolumbar angles (P<0.001), but had no effect on the superior thoracic angle. Muscle tension and stiffness were the highest (P<0.001) in the cervical region and did not differ between positions (P>0.05) in this region. We found significantly higher muscle tone and stiffness in the thoracic and lumbar regions during sitting than during standing (P<0.001). There was symmetry in the muscle tone and the stiffness between the right and left sides of the spine. CONCLUSIONS The sitting posture decreased lumbosacral and thoracolumbar angles but increased muscle tension and stiffness in the lumbar and thoracic regions only. The symmetry of muscle tone and transverse stiffness in both positions was the normative value. This study provides insight into the adaptive physiological changes in spinal curvature and muscle mechanical properties in young women and serves as an important reference point for clinical studies of women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Sipko
- Department of Kinesiotherapy, Physiotherapy Faculty, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Barczyk-Pawelec
- Department of Kinesiotherapy, Physiotherapy Faculty, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Mirela Piksa
- Department of Kinesiotherapy, Physiotherapy Faculty, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Mencel
- Department of Kinesiology, Physiotherapy Faculty, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
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García-Santamaría A, Abelairas-Gómez C, Carrera S, Padrón-Cabo A, Rey E. Effects of maturation on myotonometric parameters and their predictors of athletic performance in elite youth soccer players. Sci Rep 2024; 14:12287. [PMID: 38811805 PMCID: PMC11137063 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-63224-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the variations in individual muscle stiffness across different maturation stages (i.e., peak height velocity [PHV]) in elite youth soccer players and to explore the associations between lower limb muscle stiffness and performance in sprinting (10, 20, and 40 m sprint), maneuverability (9-3-6-3-9 m sprint test), and jumping (countermovement jump [CMJ]). A total of 131 elite youth soccer players aged 12-18 years, volunteered to participate in the study and were divided into pre-PHV (n = 21), mid-PHV (n = 33), and post-PHV (n = 80). Muscle stiffness of the rectus femoris (RF) and biceps femoris (BF) muscles was assessed using a MyotonPRO. Results showed that players in the pre-PHV stage had lower stiffness in the BF and RF muscles compared to mid-PHV (p < 0.001; effect size [ES] = moderate to large) and post-PHV players (p < 0.001; ES = moderate to large). It was also observed that the mid-PHV group had lower stiffness levels in their RF muscle compared to the post-PHV group (p < 0.001; ES = small). Significant correlations were found between BF and RF stiffness and sprint (p < 0.001) and maneuverability (p < 0.001) performance. RF stiffness showed a significant positive correlation with CMJ (p < 0.05), suggesting that greater lower body stiffness is beneficial for athletic performance in youth soccer players. The findings highlighting the importance of considering training methods that increase muscular stiffness, particularly in relation to the RF muscle, to optimize athletic performance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cristian Abelairas-Gómez
- Faculty of Education Sciences, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Samuel Carrera
- Faculty of Education and Sport Sciences, University of Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain
| | - Alexis Padrón-Cabo
- Faculty of Education and Sport Sciences, University of Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain
| | - Ezequiel Rey
- Faculty of Education and Sport Sciences, University of Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain.
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Wegener F, Ritterbusch A, Saal C, Baumgart C, Hoppe MW. Myotonometry and extended field-of-view ultrasound imaging allow reliable quantification of patellar tendon stiffness and length at rest and during maximal load, whereas several restrictions exist for the Achilles tendon. Front Sports Act Living 2024; 6:1379506. [PMID: 38859890 PMCID: PMC11163091 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2024.1379506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Stiffness and length are well-established tendon parameters in sports and medicine. Myotonometry and ultrasound imaging are the commonly used methods to quantify these parameters. However, further studies are needed to clarify the reliability of these methods, especially when assessing maximally loaded tendons and when conducted by different experienced investigators. This study aimed to determine the intra- and interrater reliabilities of measuring the stiffness and length of the patellar tendon (PT) and Achilles tendon (AT) using the myotonometry method and the extended field-of-view ultrasound (EFOV-US) technique at rest and maximal load performed by different experienced investigators. Methods Twenty-seven participants were examined on three different days by one experienced investigator and one novice investigator. Primary outcomes were the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and associated 95% confidence interval (95% CI), coefficient of variation (CV), standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimal detectable change (MDC) across the measurement days and investigators. Results For PT measurements at rest and maximal load, the estimated ICCs for stiffness and length were ≥.867 and ≥.970, respectively, with 95% CIs ranging from poor (.306) to excellent (.973) and good (.897) to excellent (.999). The CV, SEM, and MDC for PT stiffness and length were ≤5.2% and ≤2.0%, ≤39.3 N/m and ≤0.9 mm, and ≤108.9 N/m and ≤2.6 mm, respectively. For AT measurements, some restrictions were evident for stiffness at rest and both parameters at maximal load. However, regarding AT length at rest, the estimated ICC was ≥.996, with an excellent 95% CI (.987-.999). The CV, SEM, and MDC for AT length at rest were 2.8%, ≤1.1 mm, and ≤2.9 mm, respectively. Conclusion The estimated ICCs show good to excellent reliability for the myotonometry method and the EFOV-US technique for measuring PT stiffness and length at rest and maximal load for experienced and novice investigators. However, some restrictions are evident for the AT, especially for measurements at maximal load.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Wegener
- Movement and Training Science, Faculty of Sport Science, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Arne Ritterbusch
- Movement and Training Science, Faculty of Sport Science, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Christian Saal
- Movement and Training Science, Faculty of Sport Science, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Christian Baumgart
- Department of Movement and Training Science, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Matthias W. Hoppe
- Department of Exercise Science, Institute of Sport Science and Motology, Faculty of Educational Sciences, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
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Lettner J, Królikowska A, Ramadanov N, Oleksy Ł, Hakam HT, Becker R, Prill R. Evaluating the Reliability of MyotonPro in Assessing Muscle Properties: A Systematic Review of Diagnostic Test Accuracy. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:851. [PMID: 38929468 PMCID: PMC11205912 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60060851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Muscle properties are critical for performance and injury risk, with changes occurring due to physical exertion, aging, and neurological conditions. The MyotonPro device offers a non-invasive method to comprehensively assess muscle biomechanical properties. This systematic review evaluates the reliability of MyotonPro across various muscles for diagnostic purposes. Materials and Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive literature search was conducted in Medline (PubMed), Ovid (Med), Epistemonikos, Embase, Cochrane Library, Clinical trials.gov, and the WHO International Clinical Trials platform. Studies assessing the reliability of MyotonPro across different muscles were included. A methodological quality assessment was performed using established tools, and reviewers independently conducted data extraction. Statistical analysis involved summarizing intra-rater and inter-rater reliability measures across muscles. Results: A total of 48 studies assessing 31 muscles were included in the systematic review. The intra-rater and inter-rater reliability were consistently high for parameters such as frequency and stiffness in muscles of the lower and upper extremities, as well as other muscle groups. Despite methodological heterogeneity and limited data on specific parameters, MyotonPro demonstrated promising reliability for diagnostic purposes across diverse patient populations. Conclusions: The findings suggest the potential of MyotonPro in clinical assessments for accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring of muscle properties. Further research is needed to address limitations and enhance the applicability of MyotonPro in clinical practice. Reliable muscle assessments are crucial for optimizing treatment outcomes and improving patient care in various healthcare settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Lettner
- Center of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University Hospital Brandenburg/Havel, Brandenburg Medical School, Hochstraße 29, 14770 Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany; (J.L.)
| | - Aleksandra Królikowska
- Ergonomics and Biomedical Monitoring Laboratory, Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Wroclaw Medical University, Tytusa Chalubinskiego 3, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Nikolai Ramadanov
- Faculty of Health Science, Brandenburg Medical School, 14770 Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany
| | - Łukasz Oleksy
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Michałowskiego 12, 31-126 Krakow, Poland
- Department of Orthopaedics, Traumatology and Hand Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Hassan Tarek Hakam
- Center of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University Hospital Brandenburg/Havel, Brandenburg Medical School, Hochstraße 29, 14770 Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany; (J.L.)
- Faculty of Health Science, Brandenburg Medical School, 14770 Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany
| | - Roland Becker
- Center of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University Hospital Brandenburg/Havel, Brandenburg Medical School, Hochstraße 29, 14770 Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany; (J.L.)
- Faculty of Health Science, Brandenburg Medical School, 14770 Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany
| | - Robert Prill
- Center of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University Hospital Brandenburg/Havel, Brandenburg Medical School, Hochstraße 29, 14770 Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany; (J.L.)
- Faculty of Health Science, Brandenburg Medical School, 14770 Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany
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Garzón-Alfaro MT, Cruz-Medel I, Alcaraz-Clariana S, García-Luque L, Carmona-Pérez MC, Garrido-Castro JL, Alburquerque-Sendín F, Rodrigues-de-Souza DP. Influence of vaginal birth on lumbopelvic muscle mechanical properties on urinary incontinence. Clin Rehabil 2024; 38:558-568. [PMID: 38295335 DOI: 10.1177/02692155231224058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify differences in the muscle mechanical properties of the pelvic floor (PF) and lumbar paravertebral (LP) muscles between young nulliparous and uni/multiparous women. Secondarily, specific behaviors, depending on the presence or absence or urinary incontinence (UI), were also researched. DESIGN Case-control study. SETTING Higher education institution. PARTICIPANTS One hundred young women participated, divided into two groups depending on whether they had vaginal birth (nulliparous or uni/multiparous). Each group included women with and without UI. MAIN MEASURES A muscle mechanical properties (tone, stiffness, decrement-inverse of elasticity-, and viscoelastic properties: relaxation and creep) assessment of the PF and LP muscles were performed with a hand-held tonometer. RESULTS Tone and stiffness of both sides of the PF presented group by UI interaction (p < 0.05), with uni/multiparous women with UI showing higher tone and stiffness compared to multiparous women without UI. In LP muscles, uni/multiparous women showed greater tone and stiffness on the right and left sides [-2.57 Hz (95% confidence interval -4.42,-0.72) and -79.74 N/m (-143.52,-15.97); -2.20 Hz (-3.82,-0.58) and -81.30 N/m (-140.66-,21.95), respectively], as well as a decrease in viscoelastic properties compared to nulliparous women [relaxation: 2.88 ms (0.31,5.44); creep: 0.15 (0.01,0.30); relaxation: 2.69 ms (0.13,5.25); creep: 0.14 (0,0.28), respectively]. CONCLUSIONS Vaginal birth and UI have a differential influence on the muscle mechanical properties of the PF and LP muscles. The determination of muscle mechanical properties by externally applied hand-held tonometry improves the knowledge of the lumbopelvic status, with applicability in clinical and research fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Teresa Garzón-Alfaro
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Inés Cruz-Medel
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Sandra Alcaraz-Clariana
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Lourdes García-Luque
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - María Cristina Carmona-Pérez
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Juan Luis Garrido-Castro
- Department of Computer Science and Numerical Analysis, Rabanales Campus, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- GC05 Systemic and chronic inflammatory autoimmune diseases of the locomotor system and connective tissue, Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
| | - Francisco Alburquerque-Sendín
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- GC05 Systemic and chronic inflammatory autoimmune diseases of the locomotor system and connective tissue, Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
| | - Daiana Priscila Rodrigues-de-Souza
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- GC05 Systemic and chronic inflammatory autoimmune diseases of the locomotor system and connective tissue, Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
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Schoenrock B, Muckelt PE, Hastermann M, Albracht K, MacGregor R, Martin D, Gunga HC, Salanova M, Stokes MJ, Warner MB, Blottner D. Muscle stiffness indicating mission crew health in space. Sci Rep 2024; 14:4196. [PMID: 38378866 PMCID: PMC10879143 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54759-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Muscle function is compromised by gravitational unloading in space affecting overall musculoskeletal health. Astronauts perform daily exercise programmes to mitigate these effects but knowing which muscles to target would optimise effectiveness. Accurate inflight assessment to inform exercise programmes is critical due to lack of technologies suitable for spaceflight. Changes in mechanical properties indicate muscle health status and can be measured rapidly and non-invasively using novel technology. A hand-held MyotonPRO device enabled monitoring of muscle health for the first time in spaceflight (> 180 days). Greater/maintained stiffness indicated countermeasures were effective. Tissue stiffness was preserved in the majority of muscles (neck, shoulder, back, thigh) but Tibialis Anterior (foot lever muscle) stiffness decreased inflight vs. preflight (p < 0.0001; mean difference 149 N/m) in all 12 crewmembers. The calf muscles showed opposing effects, Gastrocnemius increasing in stiffness Soleus decreasing. Selective stiffness decrements indicate lack of preservation despite daily inflight countermeasures. This calls for more targeted exercises for lower leg muscles with vital roles as ankle joint stabilizers and in gait. Muscle stiffness is a digital biomarker for risk monitoring during future planetary explorations (Moon, Mars), for healthcare management in challenging environments or clinical disorders in people on Earth, to enable effective tailored exercise programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Britt Schoenrock
- NeuroMuscular System & Signaling Group, Berlin Center of Space Medicine and Extreme Environments, 10115 Berlin, Germany, Institute of Integrative Neuroanatomy, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10115 Berlin, Germany, 10115, Berlin, Germany
| | - Paul E Muckelt
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Maria Hastermann
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC) and NeuroCure Clinical Research Center (NCRC), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Hans-Christian Gunga
- Institute of Physiology, Berlin Center of Space Medicine and Extreme Environments, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10115 Berlin, Germany, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michele Salanova
- NeuroMuscular System & Signaling Group, Berlin Center of Space Medicine and Extreme Environments, 10115 Berlin, Germany, Institute of Integrative Neuroanatomy, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10115 Berlin, Germany, 10115, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria J Stokes
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Martin B Warner
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Dieter Blottner
- NeuroMuscular System & Signaling Group, Berlin Center of Space Medicine and Extreme Environments, 10115 Berlin, Germany, Institute of Integrative Neuroanatomy, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10115 Berlin, Germany, 10115, Berlin, Germany.
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10
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Rodrigues-de-Souza DP, Casas-Castro A, Carmona-Pérez MC, García-Luque L, Alcaraz-Clariana S, Garrido-Castro JL, Alburquerque-Sendín F. Between-sexes differences in lumbopelvic muscle mechanical properties of non-climacteric adults: a cross-sectional design. Sci Rep 2023; 13:21612. [PMID: 38062151 PMCID: PMC10703780 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-48984-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The lumbopelvic muscle mechanical properties (MMPs) are clinically relevant, but their dependence on sex remains unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to identify if lumbopelvic MMPs depend on the sex in a young adult population. Thirty-five healthy nulliparous women and 35 healthy men were analyzed (age range: 18-50). Lumbopelvic MMPs, that is, tone, stiffness, elasticity, relaxation and creep, assessed with MyotonPRO®, and pelvic floor (PF) health questionnaires were compared between-sexes. Intra-group correlations between sociodemographic and clinical data, and MMPs were also determined. The MMPs of PF were different between healthy non-climacteric adults of both sexes, with women showing higher values of tone and stiffness and lower values of elasticity and viscoelastic properties than men (in all cases, p < 0.03). At lumbar level, tone and stiffness were higher for men at both sides (in all cases, p < 0.04), and relaxation was lower at left side (p = 0.02). The MMPs showed few correlations with sociodemographic data within women. However, within males, there were positive correlations for PF stiffness and viscoelastic parameters with age, BMI and function (0.334 < r < 0.591) and, at lumbar level, negative correlations for tone and stiffness ( - 0.385 < r < -0.590) and positive correlations for viscoelastic properties (0.564 < r < 0.719), with BMI. This indicated that between-sexes differences of lumbopelvic MMPs depend on the specific location of assessment in healthy non-obese young individuals. Women show higher tone and stiffness and lower elasticity and viscoelasticity than men, at PF level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiana Priscila Rodrigues-de-Souza
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Azahara Casas-Castro
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - María Cristina Carmona-Pérez
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Lourdes García-Luque
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Sandra Alcaraz-Clariana
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Juan Luis Garrido-Castro
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004, Córdoba, Spain
- Department of Computer Science and Numerical Analysis, Rabanales Campus, University of Córdoba, 14071, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Francisco Alburquerque-Sendín
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004, Córdoba, Spain.
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11
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Lukas K, Gutschmidt K, Schoser B, Wenninger S. Evaluation of myotonometry for myotonia, muscle stiffness and elasticity in neuromuscular disorders. J Neurol 2023; 270:5398-5407. [PMID: 37460851 PMCID: PMC10576663 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-11867-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Neuromuscular disorders show extremely varied expressions of different symptoms and the involvement of muscles. Non-invasively, myotonia and muscle stiffness are challenging to measure objectively. Our study aims to test myotonia, elasticity, and stiffness in various neuromuscular diseases and to provide reference values for different neuromuscular disease groups using a novel handheld non-invasive myometer device MyotonPRO®. We conducted a monocentric blinded cross-sectional study in patients with a set of distinct neuromuscular diseases (NCT04411732, date of registration June 2, 2020). Fifty-two patients in five groups and 21 healthy subjects were enrolled. We evaluated motor function (6-min walk test, handheld dynamometry, Medical Research Council (MRC) Scale) and used ultrasound imaging to assess muscle tissue (Heckmatt scale). We measured muscle stiffness, frequency, decrement, creep, or relaxation using myotonometry with the device MyotonPRO®. Statistically, all values were calculated using the t test and Mann-Whitney U test. No differences were found in comparing the results of myotonometry between healthy and diseased probands. Furthermore, we did not find significant results in all five disease groups regarding myotonometry correlating with muscle strength or ultrasound imaging results. In summary, the myometer MyotonPRO® could not identify significant differences between healthy individuals and neuromuscular patients in our patient collective. Additionally, this device could not distinguish between the five different groups of disorders displaying increased stiffness or decreased muscle tone due to muscle atrophy. In contrast, classic standard muscle tests could clearly decipher healthy controls and neuromuscular patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Lukas
- Department of Neurology, Friedrich-Baur-Institute, LMU University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Ziemssenstr. 1, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Kristina Gutschmidt
- Department of Neurology, Friedrich-Baur-Institute, LMU University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Ziemssenstr. 1, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Benedikt Schoser
- Department of Neurology, Friedrich-Baur-Institute, LMU University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Ziemssenstr. 1, 80336, Munich, Germany.
| | - Stephan Wenninger
- Department of Neurology, Friedrich-Baur-Institute, LMU University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Ziemssenstr. 1, 80336, Munich, Germany
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12
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Çakici R, Saldiran TÇ, Kara İ, Açik H. Plantar fascia stiffness in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: Stiffness effect on fall risk and gait speed. Foot (Edinb) 2023; 56:102020. [PMID: 36990015 DOI: 10.1016/j.foot.2023.102020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
AIMS The primary objective was to compare patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and healthy peers in terms of plantar fascia (PF) stiffness, fall risk, and gait speed. The second objective was to examine the relationship between stiffness of PF and fall risk, gait speed. METHODS Fifty patients diagnosed with T2DM (mean duration = 10.74 ± 7.07 years) were included. Myotonometer was used to evaluate the stiffness of PF. To assess the risk of falling, and gait speed, the International Fall Efficiency Scale (FES-I) and the 4-Meter Gait Speed Test (4mGST) were used, respectively. RESULTS Compared to healthy controls, PF stiffness (right foot mean difference = 148.99 N/m, left foot mean difference = 113.13 N/m p < .001) was higher in the T2DM group. The FES-I and 4mGST scores were worse in the group with T2DM (p < .05). 12.8 % of FES-I and 23.4 % of 4mGST variance were explained by stiffness of PF. CONCLUSIONS The results of the study showed that the stiffness of PF changed in patients with T2DM. There was a decrease in gait speed and an increase in the risk of falling as PF stiffness increased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rumeysa Çakici
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Institute of Health Sciences, Istanbul Okan University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tülay Çevik Saldiran
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Bitlis Eren University, Bitlis, Turkey.
| | - İlke Kara
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Bitlis Eren University, Bitlis, Turkey; Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Institute of Health Sciences, Dokuz Eylül University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Hasan Açik
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul Okan University, Istanbul, Turkey
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13
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Jarosz J, Gaweł D, Krzysztofik M, Zając A, Tsoukos A, Bogdanis GC, Wilk M. Effects of blood flow restriction on mechanical properties of the rectus femoris muscle at rest. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1244376. [PMID: 37664427 PMCID: PMC10469864 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1244376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: This study examined the effects of blood flow restriction (BFR) and reperfusion on the mechanical properties of the rectus femoris muscle at rest (frequency and stiffness). Methods: Fourteen trained men (body weight = 81.0 ± 10.3 kg; BMI = 25 ± 3.0 m/kg2; height = 181 ± 4 cm; training experience = 6.0 ± 2.2 years) participated in an experimental session involving their dominant (BFR) and non-dominant leg (control). Muscle mechanical properties were measured using Myoton's accelerometer at the midpoint of the rectus femoris muscle at five time points. In the BFR leg, an 80% arterial occlusion pressure was applied by a cuff for 5 min. No cuff was applied in the control leg. Femoral Myoton measurements were taken from both legs 2 and 4 min after the start of BRF as well as 30 s and 2 min after the end of the occlusion period. Results: The two-way ANOVA revealed a statistically significant interaction effect for stiffness and frequency (p < 0.001; η2 > 0.67). The post hoc analysis showed that both stiffness and frequency increased during BFR compared with rest and then dropped to the resting levels post BFR period. Also, stiffness and frequency were higher than control only during the BFR period, and similar during rest and post BFR. Conclusion: These results indicate that the application of BFR at rest leads to significant changes in mechanical properties of the rectus femoris muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Jarosz
- Institute of Sport Sciences, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, Katowice, Poland
| | - Dawid Gaweł
- Institute of Sport Sciences, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, Katowice, Poland
| | - Michal Krzysztofik
- Institute of Sport Sciences, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, Katowice, Poland
| | - Adam Zając
- Institute of Sport Sciences, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, Katowice, Poland
| | - Athanasios Tsoukos
- School of Physical Education and Sport Science, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Gregory C. Bogdanis
- School of Physical Education and Sport Science, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Michal Wilk
- Institute of Sport Sciences, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, Katowice, Poland
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Kopecká B, Ravnik D, Jelen K, Bittner V. Objective Methods of Muscle Tone Diagnosis and Their Application-A Critical Review. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:7189. [PMID: 37631726 PMCID: PMC10458714 DOI: 10.3390/s23167189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
"Muscle tone" is a clinically important and widely used term and palpation is a crucial skill for its diagnosis. However, the term is defined rather vaguely, and palpation is not measurable objectively. Therefore, several methods have been developed to measure muscle tone objectively, in terms of biomechanical properties of the muscle. This article aims to summarize these approaches. Through database searches, we identified those studies related to objective muscle tone measurement in vivo, in situ. Based on them, we described existing methods and devices and compared their reliability. Furthermore, we presented an extensive list of the use of these methods in different fields of research. Although it is believed by some authors that palpation cannot be replaced by a mechanical device, several methods have already proved their utility in muscle biomechanical property diagnosis. There appear to be two issues preventing wider usage of these objective methods in clinical practice. Firstly, a high variability of their reliability, and secondly, a lack of valid mathematical models that would provide the observed mechanical characteristics with a clear physical significance and allow the results to be compared with each other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbora Kopecká
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Charles University, 162 52 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - David Ravnik
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Primorska, 6310 Izola, Slovenia
| | - Karel Jelen
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Charles University, 162 52 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Václav Bittner
- Faculty of Science, Humanities and Education, Technical University of Liberec, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic
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15
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The Effects of Vibration Exposure on Lower-Limb Extensor Muscles' Stiffness, Elasticity, and Strength Responses in Untrained Young Individuals: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Sport Rehabil 2023; 32:415-423. [PMID: 36708713 DOI: 10.1123/jsr.2022-0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The whole-body vibration (WBV) effects on muscle strength show inconsistent results. Moreover, there is no study about the WBV effect on stiffness, elasticity, and muscle strength. Therefore, the study aimed to examine the effect of WBV exposure with static squat posture on the stiffness, elasticity, and strength of the lower-limb extensor muscles. MATERIAL AND METHODS Forty healthy untrained young adults were divided into WBV and control groups. The experimental group received WBV exposure on 2 nonconsecutive days of the week, for 6 weeks. The MyotonPRO device was used for the assessment of the knee extensor and the ankle dorsiflexors' stiffness and elasticity. Isometric muscle strength was evaluated with a hand-held dynamometer. All measurements were done by the same assessor at baseline, and the following 6 weeks. RESULTS Significant group-by-time interactions were found for the elasticity scores of the right (d = 0.84, P = .01) and left (d = 0.77, P = .02) ankle dorsiflexors. Similar to the elasticity measurements, significant group-by-time interactions were observed in the muscle strength scores of the right (d = 0.45, P = .046) and left (d = 1.25, P < .001) ankle dorsiflexors. No significant effects were observed in any of the evaluated muscle stiffness measurements (P > .05), and there was no significant group-by-time interaction in knee-extensor muscle strength and elasticity scores (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS The study results indicate that if the ankle dorsiflexor strength and elasticity are desired to be increased, the 6-week WBV exposure in a static squat posture can be used in healthy individuals.
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16
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Assessing reliability and validity of different stiffness measurement tools on a multi-layered phantom tissue model. Sci Rep 2023; 13:815. [PMID: 36646734 PMCID: PMC9842673 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-27742-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Changes in the mechanical properties (i.e., stiffness) of soft tissues have been linked to musculoskeletal disorders, pain conditions, and cancer biology, leading to a rising demand for diagnostic methods. Despite the general availability of different stiffness measurement tools, it is unclear as to which are best suited for different tissue types and the related measurement depths. The study aimed to compare different stiffness measurement tools' (SMT) reliability on a multi-layered phantom tissue model (MPTM). A polyurethane MPTM simulated the four layers of the thoracolumbar region: cutis (CUT), subcutaneous connective tissue (SCT), fascia profunda (FPR), and erector spinae (ERS), with varying stiffness parameters. Evaluated stiffness measurement tools included Shore Durometer, Semi-Electronic Tissue Compliance Meter (STCM), IndentoPRO, MyotonPRO, and ultrasound imaging. Measurements were made by two independent, blinded examiners. Shore Durometer, STCM, IndentoPRO, and MyotonPRO reliably detected stiffness changes in three of the four MPTM layers, but not in the thin (1 mm thick) layer simulating FPR. With ultrasound imaging, only stiffness changes in layers thicker than 3 mm could be measured reliably. Significant correlations ranging from 0.70 to 0.98 (all p < 0.01) were found. The interrater reliability ranged from good to excellent (ICC(2,2) = 0.75-0.98). The results are encouraging for researchers and clinical practitioners as the investigated stiffness measurement tools are easy-to-use and comparatively affordable.
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17
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Varga-Szemes A, Halfmann M, Schoepf UJ, Jin N, Kilburg A, Dargis DM, Düber C, Ese A, Aquino G, Xiong F, Kreitner KF, Markl M, Emrich T. Highly Accelerated Compressed-Sensing 4D Flow for Intracardiac Flow Assessment. J Magn Reson Imaging 2022. [PMID: 36264176 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.28484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Four-dimensional (4D) flow MRI allows for the quantification of complex flow patterns; however, its clinical use is limited by its inherently long acquisition time. Compressed sensing (CS) is an acceleration technique that provides substantial reduction in acquisition time. PURPOSE To compare intracardiac flow measurements between conventional and CS-based highly accelerated 4D flow acquisitions. STUDY TYPE Prospective. SUBJECTS Fifty healthy volunteers (28.0 ± 7.1 years, 24 males). FIELD STRENGTH/SEQUENCE Whole heart time-resolved 3D gradient echo with three-directional velocity encoding (4D flow) with conventional parallel imaging (factor 3) as well as CS (factor 7.7) acceleration at 3 T. ASSESSMENT 4D flow MRI data were postprocessed by applying a valve tracking algorithm. Acquisition times, flow volumes (mL/cycle) and diastolic function parameters (ratio of early to late diastolic left ventricular peak velocities [E/A] and ratio of early mitral inflow velocity to mitral annular early diastolic velocity [E/e']) were quantified by two readers. STATISTICAL TESTS Paired-samples t-test and Wilcoxon rank sum test to compare measurements. Pearson correlation coefficient (r), Bland-Altman-analysis (BA) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) to evaluate agreement between techniques and readers. A P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS A significant improvement in acquisition time was observed using CS vs. conventional accelerated acquisition (6.7 ± 1.3 vs. 12.0 ± 1.3 min). Net forward flow measurements for all valves showed good correlation (r > 0.81) and agreement (ICCs > 0.89) between conventional and CS acceleration, with 3.3%-8.3% underestimation by the CS technique. Evaluation of diastolic function showed 3.2%-17.6% error: E/A 2.2 [1.9-2.4] (conventional) vs. 2.3 [2.0-2.6] (CS), BA bias 0.08 [-0.81-0.96], ICC 0.82; and E/e' 4.6 [3.9-5.4] (conventional) vs. 3.8 [3.4-4.3] (CS), BA bias -0.90 [-2.31-0.50], ICC 0.89. DATA CONCLUSION Analysis of intracardiac flow patterns and evaluation of diastolic function using a highly accelerated 4D flow sequence prototype is feasible, but it shows underestimation of flow measurements by approximately 10%. EVIDENCE LEVEL 2 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akos Varga-Szemes
- Division of Cardiovascular Imaging, Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Moritz Halfmann
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany.,German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner site Rhine-Main, Mainz, Germany
| | - U Joseph Schoepf
- Division of Cardiovascular Imaging, Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Ning Jin
- Siemens Medical Solutions USA Inc., Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Anton Kilburg
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Danielle M Dargis
- Division of Cardiovascular Imaging, Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Christoph Düber
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Amir Ese
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Gilberto Aquino
- Division of Cardiovascular Imaging, Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Fei Xiong
- Siemens Medical Solutions USA Inc., Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Karl-Friedrich Kreitner
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Michael Markl
- Department of Radiology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
| | - Tilman Emrich
- Division of Cardiovascular Imaging, Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina.,Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany.,German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner site Rhine-Main, Mainz, Germany
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18
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Plehuna A, Green DA, Amirova LE, Tomilovskaya ES, Rukavishnikov IV, Kozlovskaya IB. Dry immersion induced acute low back pain and its relationship with trunk myofascial viscoelastic changes. Front Physiol 2022; 13:1039924. [PMID: 36311233 PMCID: PMC9606241 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1039924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Microgravity induces spinal elongation and Low Back Pain (LBP) but the pathophysiology is unknown. Changes in paraspinal muscle viscoelastic properties may play a role. Dry Immersion (DI) is a ground-based microgravity analogue that induces changes in m. erector spinae superficial myofascial tissue tone within 2 h. This study sought to determine whether bilateral m. erector spinae tone, creep, and stiffness persist beyond 2 h; and if such changes correlate with DI-induced spinal elongation and/or LBP. Ten healthy males lay in the DI bath at the Institute of Biomedical Problems (Moscow, Russia) for 6 h. Bilateral lumbar (L1, L4) and thoracic (T11, T9) trunk myofascial tone, stiffness and creep (MyotonPRO), and subjective LBP (0-10 NRS) were recorded before DI, after 1h, 6 h of DI, and 30min post. The non-standing spinal length was evaluated on the bath lifting platform using a bespoke stadiometer before and following DI. DI significantly modulated m. erector spinae viscoelastic properties at L4, L1, T11, and T9 with no effect of laterality. Bilateral tissue tone was significantly reduced after 1 and 6 h DI at L4, L1, T11, and T9 to a similar extent. Stiffness was also reduced by DI at 1 h but partially recovered at 6 h for L4, L1, and T11. Creep was increased by DI at 1 h, with partial recovery at 6 h, although only T11 was significant. All properties returned to baseline 30 min following DI. Significant spinal elongation (1.17 ± 0.20 cm) with mild (at 1 h) to moderate (at 6 h) LBP was induced, mainly in the upper lumbar and lower thoracic regions. Spinal length increases positively correlated (Rho = 0.847, p = 0.024) with middle thoracic (T9) tone reduction, but with no other stiffness or creep changes. Spinal length positively correlated (Rho = 0.557, p = 0.039) with Max LBP; LBP failed to correlate with any m. erector spinae measured parameters. The DI-induced bilateral m. erector spinae tone, creep, and stiffness changes persist beyond 2 h. Evidence of spinal elongation and LBP allows suggesting that the trunk myofascial tissue changes could play a role in LBP pathogenesis observed in real and simulated microgravity. Further study is warranted with longer duration DI, assessment of IVD geometry, and vertebral column stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasija Plehuna
- King’s College London, Centre of Human & Applied Physiological Sciences, London, United Kingdom
- Laboratory of Gravitational Physiology of the Sensorimotor System, Institute of Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - David Andrew Green
- King’s College London, Centre of Human & Applied Physiological Sciences, London, United Kingdom
- Space Medicine Team, HRE-OM, European Astronaut Centre, European Space Agency, Cologne, Germany
- KBRwyle Laboratories GmbH, Cologne, Germany
| | - Liubov E. Amirova
- Laboratory of Gravitational Physiology of the Sensorimotor System, Institute of Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena S. Tomilovskaya
- Laboratory of Gravitational Physiology of the Sensorimotor System, Institute of Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ilya V. Rukavishnikov
- Laboratory of Gravitational Physiology of the Sensorimotor System, Institute of Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Inessa B. Kozlovskaya
- Laboratory of Gravitational Physiology of the Sensorimotor System, Institute of Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
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Asymmetries of the Muscle Mechanical Properties of the Pelvic Floor in Nulliparous and Multiparous Women, and Men: A Cross-Sectional Study. Symmetry (Basel) 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/sym14102124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to identify if the muscle mechanical properties (MMPs) of both sides of pelvic floor muscles (PFMs) are symmetrical in different populations of both sexes. Between-sides comparisons of MMPs of PFMs, assessed with manual myotonometry, were performed in three groups, with 31 subjects each, composed of healthy nulliparous women (without any type of delivery or pregnancy), multiparous women (with at least two vaginal deliveries), and healthy adult men. Intra-group correlations between MMPs and age, body mass index (BMI), or clinical state of pelvic floor were also obtained. The nulliparous women and the men showed no between-sides differences in any MMP of PFMs. However, the multiparous women showed that the right side displayed less frequency (−0.65 Hz, 95% CI = −1.01, −0.20) and decrement (0.5, 95% CI = 0.11, 0.01), and more relaxation (1.00 ms, 95% CI = 0.47, 1.54) and creep (0.07 De, 95% CI = 0.03, 0.11), than the left side. Further, MMPs were related to age, sex, and BMI, also depending on the population, with the multiparous women being the only group with some between-sides asymmetries, which in this case were positive and of fair intensity for the left side of the PFMs, between BMI, and frequency and stiffness (rho Spearman coefficient: 0.365 and 0.366, respectively). The symmetry of MMPs of the PFMs could depend on the subject’s condition. Multiparous women show a higher tendency to asymmetries than nulliparous women and men, which should be considered in research and clinical settings.
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