Effects of different exercises on respiratory parameters: A randomized controlled trial

This study was designed to compare the effects of core stabilisation (CS) and auxiliary respiratory muscle strengthening exercises on oxygen consumption and respiratory parameters. A total of 51 participants were divided into three groups with block randomization method according to age and gender: CS Group (n = 17), Auxiliary Respiratory Muscles Exercise (ARM) Group (n = 17) and Control (C) Group (n = 17). Maximum oxygen uptake (VO₂max), first second of forced expiration (FEV1)/Forced vital capacity (FVC) and maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV) values were evaluated before and after the study. CS and ARM strengthening exercises were applied 3 days a week for 6 weeks. The increase in the FEV1/VC values was higher in the CS and ARM groups than in the C group (p < 0.05), whereas no statistically significant difference was observed between the ARM and CS groups (p < 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of VO₂max values before and after the study (p > 0.05). The increase in the MVV values was higher in the CS and ARM groups than in the C group (p < 0.05), whereas no statistically significant difference was observed between the ARM and CS groups (p > 0.05). CS and ARM exercises had positive effects on FEV1/FVC and MVV.     

Impact of post-manipulation corrective core exercises on the spinal deformation and lumbar strength in golfers: a case study

[Purpose] This study examined spinal shape in professional golfers with chronic back pain, and analyzed the effects of a 4-week regimen of semi-weekly manipulation and corrective core exercises on spinal shape. [Subjects] Two golfers with chronic back pain. [Methods] The pelvis and spinal vertebrae were corrected using the Thompson “drop” technique. Angle and force were adjusted to place the pelvis, lumbar spine, and thoracic vertebrae in neutral position. The technique was applied twice weekly after muscle massage in the back and pelvic areas. The golfers performed corrective, warmup stretching exercises, followed by squats on an unstable surface using the Togu ball. They then used a gym ball for repetitions of hip rotation, upper trunk extension, sit-ups, and pelvic anterior-posterior, pelvic left-right, and trunk flexion-extension exercises. The session ended with cycling as a cool-down exercise. Each session lasted 60 minutes. [Results] The difference in height was measured on the left and right sides of the pelvic bone. The pelvic tilt changed significantly in both participants after the 4-week program. [Conclusion] In golfers, core muscles are critical and are closely related to spinal deformation. Core strengthening and spinal correction play a pivotal role in the correction of spinal deformation.Key words: Chronic back pain, Manipulation, Core exercise     

Effects of flexi-bar and non-flexi-bar exercises on trunk muscles activity in different postures in healthy adults

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of flexi-bar exercises and non-flexi-bar exercises on trunk muscle activity in different postures in healthy adults. [Subjects] Twenty healthy right-hand dominant adults (10 males and 10 females) were selected for this study. None of the participants had experienced any orthopedic problems in the spine or in the upper and lower extremities in the previous six months. [Methods] The subjects were instructed to adopt three exercise postures: posture 1, quadruped; posture 2, side-bridge; and posture 3, standing. Surface electromyography of selected trunk muscles was normalized to maximum voluntary isometric contraction. [Results] The external oblique, internal oblique, and erector spinae muscle activity showed significant differences between flexi-bar exercises and non-flexi-bar exercises. [Conclusion] The results of this study suggest that flexi-bar exercises are useful in the activation of trunk muscles.Key words: Flexi-bar, Vibration, Electromyography     

Effects of neck exercises on swallowing function of patients with stroke

[Purpose] This study examined the effects of neck exercises using PNF on the swallowing function of stroke patients with dysphasia. [Subjects and Methods] A total of 26 study subjects were selected and randomly divided into an experimental group of 13 subjects, who received the PNF-based short neck flexion exercises, and a control group of 13 subjects, who received the Shaker exercise. [Results] The experimental group showed statistically significant improvements in premature bolus loss, residue in the valleculae, laryngeal elevation, epiglottic closure, residue in the pyriform sinuses, and coating of the pharyngeal wall after swallowing, and improvements in pharyngeal transit time, and aspiration on both the new VFSS scale and the ASHA NOMS scale. [Conclusion] PNF-based short neck flexion exercises appear to be effective at improving swallowing function of stroke patients with dysphagia.Key words: Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, Dysphagia, Stroke     

不同树脂核材料影响纤维桩核整体抗折强度的比较

背景：纤维桩修复中树脂核材料的选择可能影响桩核的整体强度。 目的：比较5种树脂核材料分别与玻璃纤维桩结合后的整体抗折强度。 方法：将50个viva玻璃纤维桩随机分为5组,分别与MEDENTAL双重固化树脂水门汀、伊蒂娜双重固化树脂水门汀、Bisco BisCem树脂水门汀、3M光固化纳米复合树脂P60及PULPDENT双重固化树脂水门汀黏结,将5组桩核的根管部分分别用自凝塑料包埋,固化后固定于万能试验机上并与牙体长轴成135°角加载于核部,加载速度为1.0 mm/min,直至断裂,测得断裂时受力情况。 结果与结论：MEDENTAL双重固化树脂水门汀组、伊蒂娜双重固化树脂水门汀组、Bisco BisCem树脂水门汀组、3M 光固化纳米复合树脂 P60组及 PULPDENT 双重固化树脂水门汀组的抗折强度分别为（83.248±7.857）,（89.230±4.326）,（95.188±5.147）,（76.646±6.463）,（83.064±3.964） N。除 MEDENTAL双重固化树脂水门汀组与 PULPDENT 双重固化树脂水门汀组抗折强度无差异外,其余各组间两两比较差异均有显著性意义（P〈0.05）。结果表明Bisco BisCem树脂水门汀与纤维桩结合后具有较高的抗折强度。     

Effects of a brief Valsalva manoeuvre on hemodynamic response to strength exercises

Strength training is a recommended measure against loss of strength and muscle mass because of age- or illness-induced inactivity. Strength exercises may impose heavy cardiovascular load by increasing heart rate and blood pressure. To increase strength efficiently, a heavy load has to be applied; this, however, leads to a spontaneous Valsalva manoeuvre, which additionally raises blood pressure. Avoidance of this manoeuvre is recommended. If the additional rise in arterial blood pressure caused by Valsalva manoeuvre is smaller than intrathoracic or intracranial pressures during this manoeuvre, Valsalva manoeuvre may actually protect arteries located in the thorax and in the brain by diminishing transmural pressure acting across these vessels. Effect of controlled breathing or brief Valsalva manoeuvre on arterial pressure at rest and during knee extension against 15-repetition maximum resistance was evaluated. In 12 healthy young men blood pressure was measured continuously and non-invasively, knee angle, speed of respiratory air or mouth pressure (MP) were continuously registered. Each combination of respiratory and exercise manoeuvres was repeated six times, for every of last three repetitions peak and trough systolic and diastolic pressure were determined. Strength exercises elevated peak pressures more than trough pressures, systolic more than diastolic. Valsalva manoeuvre increased only peak systolic and peak diastolic pressure. This increase was in average lesser than MP, thus rendering an argument in favour of protective role of brief Valsalva manoeuvre because of decline in transmural pressure acting on thoracic and possibly cerebral arteries. However, there was strong individual variability, and in few instances, arterial pressure increased because of brief Valsalva manoeuvre more than MP; thus in some subjects, the manoeuvre might enhance transmural pressure acting on thorax arteries.     

The effects of isometric trunk exercises and dynamic trunk exercises on gait in elderly people

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of dynamic trunk exercises and isometric trunk exercises on gait in elderly people. [Subjects] This study randomly allocated 20 elderly people to an isometric trunk exercise group (n=10) and a dynamic trunk exercise group (n=10). The exercises were performed for 30 minutes three times a week for 12 weeks. Gait speed, stride length, cadence, and step width were measured at a normal pace using GAITRite. All groups were evaluated before and after 12 weeks. [Results] The isometric exercise group showed a significant change in gait velocity, cadence, and left and right step lengths. The dynamic trunk exercise group showed a significant change in gait velocity, cadence, left and right step lengths, left and right step times, and left and right stride lengths. Moreover, a comparison of the exercise effect between the two groups showed a significant difference in gait velocity. [Conclusion] The results of this study suggest that isometric trunk exercises and dynamic trunk exercises have a positive effect on gait function in elderly people. In particular, isometric trunk exercises are recommended to promote gait velocity.Key words: Isometric trunk exercise, Dynamic trunk exercise, Gait     

Predictive equations for respiratory muscle strength according to international and Brazilian guidelines

Background:

The maximum static respiratory pressures, namely the maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP) and maximum expiratory pressure (MEP), reflect the strength of the respiratory muscles. These measures are simple, non-invasive, and have established diagnostic and prognostic value. This study is the first to examine the maximum respiratory pressures within the Brazilian population according to the recommendations proposed by the American Thoracic Society and European Respiratory Society (ATS/ERS) and the Brazilian Thoracic Association (SBPT).

Objective:

To establish reference equations, mean values, and lower limits of normality for MIP and MEP for each age group and sex, as recommended by the ATS/ERS and SBPT.

Method:

We recruited 134 Brazilians living in Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil, aged 20-89 years, with a normal pulmonary function test and a body mass index within the normal range. We used a digital manometer that operationalized the variable maximum average pressure (MIP/MEP). At least five tests were performed for both MIP and MEP to take into account a possible learning effect.

Results:

We evaluated 74 women and 60 men. The equations were as follows: MIP=63.27-0.55 (age)+17.96 (gender)+0.58 (weight), r2 of 34% and MEP= - 61.41+2.29 (age) - 0.03(age2)+33.72 (gender)+1.40 (waist), r2 of 49%.

Conclusion:

In clinical practice, these equations could be used to calculate the predicted values of MIP and MEP for the Brazilian population.     

Effects of neuromuscular joint facilitation on bridging exercises with respect to deep muscle changes

[Purpose] This study examined the effects of neuromuscular joint facilitation on bridging exercises by assessing the cross-sectional area of the multifidus muscle and thickness of the musculus transversus abdominis. [Subjects] Twelve healthy men. [Methods] Four exercises were evaluated: (a) supine resting, (b) bridging resistance exercise involving posterior pelvic tilting, (c) bridging resistance exercise involving anterior pelvic tilting, and (d) bridging resistance exercise involving neuromuscular joint facilitation. The cross-sectional area of the multifidus muscle and thickness of the musculus transversus abdominis were measured during each exercise. [Results] The cross-sectional area of the multifidus muscle and thickness of the musculus transversus abdominis were significantly greater in the neuromuscular joint facilitation group than the others. [Conclusion] Neuromuscular joint facilitation intervention improves the function of deep muscles such as the multifidus muscle and musculus transversus abdominis. Therefore, it can be recommended for application in clinical treatments such as that for back pain.Key words: Back pain, Cross-sectional area of multifidus muscle, Bridging exercises     

Effects of hip exercises for chronic low-back pain patients with lumbar instability

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to compare hip range of motion between a lumbar stability group and a lumbar instability group, and to evaluate the effectiveness of hip exercises for low-back pain patients with lumbar instability. [Subjects] Seventy-eight patients with chronic low-back pain were the subjects. [Methods] The patients were divided into two groups: a lumbar stability group (n=45) and a lumbar instability group (n=33). They were assessed using the Korean version of the Oswestry Disability Index (KODI) to determine the level of disability of the patients with low-back pain. A 100 mm visual analog scale (VAS) was used to assess low-back pain. [Results] The limitation of hip range of motion of the lumbar instability group was significantly greater than that of the lumbar stability group. Comparisons among four groups at three weeks and six weeks after the start of hip exercises revealed that the VAS score of each group had significantly decreased. Comparisons among four groups at three weeks and at six weeks after the start of hip exercises revealed that the KODI score of each group had significantly decreased. [Conclusion] These findings suggest that the performance of hip exercises by chronic low-back pain patients with lumbar instability is more effective than conventional therapy at reducing low-back pain and levels of disability.Key words: Chronic low-back pain, Hip exercise, Lumbar instability     

核心稳定性锻炼对膝骨关节炎的临床效果观察

目的：探讨核心稳定性锻炼对膝骨关节炎的治疗效果。方法选择膝骨关节炎患者60例,应用计算机随机分为两组,对照组30例采用常规理疗、针灸、熏洗、按摩等治疗,治疗组在常规治疗基础上加入核心稳定性锻炼。治疗前后采用 Lysholm 膝关节评分量表和视觉模拟评分法（VAS）进行评定。结果治疗组治疗前后 VAS 分别为（8.31±1.16）、（3.37±0.97）分,差异有统计学意义（t =16.30,P=0.00）;对照组治疗前后 VAS 分别为（8.26±1.22）、（5.06±0.82）分,差异有统计学意义（t =12.19,P=0.00）;两组治疗后比较差异有统计学意义（t =-6.98,P =0.00）。治疗组治疗前后 Lysholm 膝关节量表评分分别为（32.92±4.21）、（60.19±4.42）分,差异有统计学意义（t =-30.44,P =0.00）;对照组治疗前后 Lysholm 膝关节量表评分分别为（34.82±5.58）、（53.49±3.66）分,差异有统计学意义（t =-14.82,P =0.00）;两组治疗后比较差异有统计学意义（t =7.16,P =0.00）。结论核心稳定性锻炼能进一步改善膝骨关节炎患者膝关节功能,缓解疼痛。     

不同体位二氧化碳气腹对呼吸参数的影响

目的 观察不同体位下腹腔镜手术二氧化碳气腹对患者呼气末二氧化碳分压(PETCO2)、气道峰压(Ppeak) 及气道平台压(PLAT)的影响.方法 A组:女性腹腔镜胆囊切除术60例,术中取头高足低20°~30°;B组:女性腹腔镜子宫切除术60例,术中取头低足高20°~30°.监测气腹前(T0)、气腹后体位改变前(T1)、体位改变后10 min(T2)、20 min(T3)及30 min(T4)时的PETCO2、Ppeak、PLAT.结果 T1、T2、T3、T4时与T0时比较两组PETCO2、Ppeak、PLAT明显升高(P<0.05);B组T2、T3、T4时的PETCO2、Ppeak、PLAT明显高于A组(P<0.05).结论 气腹与体位均使患者呼吸参数发生改变,特别是头低足高位呼气末二氧化碳分压、气道峰压及气道平台压升高更为明显.     

Increase of muscle strength from isometric quadriceps exercises at different knee angles.

Isometric quadriceps exercises were performed at two different knee angles, 15 and 60 degrees respectively. The maximal torque was measured in both positions before and after training in 10 healthy females. Both legs were exercised, one at each position. The purpose was to develop practical recommendations for choice of training position. The strength increase was mainly specific according to the angle at which the knee was exercised. It was suggested that isometric exercise would preferably be performed at different knee angles to secure an optimal total strength increase. Isometric exercises improved dynamic strength at a low velocity but not at a high velocity.     

Effects of double air-cushion biofeedback exercises in a patient with sacroiliac joint pain

[Purpose] We developed a double air-cushion biofeedback device to be used for sacroiliac (SI) joint exercises and investigated the effects of exercising using the device in a patient with SI joint pain. [Subject] A 40-year-old man, who complained of pain in the left posterior iliac crest area and SI joints over a 6-month period participated. [Methods] After a 4-week exercise program using the double air-cushion biofeedback device, the subject was assessed using the Gaenslen, Patrick, posterior shear (POSH), and resisted abduction (REAB) tests. [Results] After performing exercise designed to strengthen subdivisions of the gluteus medius, the subject had no pain in the Gaenslen, Patrick, POSH, or REAB tests of the SI joint. The visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain on palpation of the left posterior iliac crest area decreased to 4/10 from an initial score of 7/10. [Conclusion] Exercises with the double air-cushion biofeedback device improved hip asymmetry, SI joint mobility, and muscle strength.Key words: Biofeedback, Pain-provocation tests, Sacroiliac joint pain     

The effect of lumbar stabilization exercises and thoracic mobilization and exercises on chronic low back pain patients

[Purpose] To investigate whether pain, balance, and stabilization of the lumbar region can be improved through thoracic mobilization in addition to lumbar stabilizaing exercises. [Subjects and Methods] This study recruited 36 subjects with chronic low back pain lasting more than 12 weeks. The subjects recruited for this study participated voluntarily, and provided their signed consent to participation. [Results] Improvement in balance was largest in the lumbar stabilization exercise group, followed by the thoracic mobilization and exercise group, and the traditional physical therapy group, in decreasing order of effect. [Conclusion] In conclusion, lumbar stabilization exercises combined with thoracic mobilization had greater effects on stabilization of the lumbar region pain relief, and improvement of the function of the patients with chronic low back pain.Key words: Lumbar stabilization exercises, Thoracic mobilization exercises, Chronic low back pain     

Comparison of the thicknesses of the transversus abdominis and internal abdominal obliques during plank exercises on different support surfaces

[Purpose] This study applied variable plank exercises on a stable surface consisting of a mat, on an unstable surface consisting of a dynamic cushion placed under the upper extremities and lower extremities. [Subjects] Forty-three healthy male and female subjects in their 20s voluntarily consented to participate in this study. [Methods] The subjects performed the plank exercises on the three support surfaces. Ultrasound imaging was conducted while they carried out plank exercises. [Results] The changes in the thicknesses of both the transversus abdominis and internal abdominal obliques were statistically more significant for LEDCP than for MatP. In addition, the changes in the thickness of the transversus abdominis were statistically more significant for LEDCP than for UEDCP. [Conclusion] Therefore, applying an unstable condition to the lower limbs using a dynamic cushion is considered more effective during plank exercises.Key words: Plank exercises, Ultrasound imaging, Unstable condition     

Effects of exercise therapy on muscular strength in firefighters with back pain

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to determine how an exercise program focusing on muscular strength could aid firefighters with chronic lower back pain. [Subjects] The research subjects were randomly assigned to two groups, the experimental group (n=8) and the control (n=8). [Methods] The experimental group performed two types of exercise programs four times per week for 8 weeks under supervision. Tests were performed before and after the 8 weeks of exercise in accordance with the Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency’s program. [Results] At the end of the 8 weeks of the rehabilitation program, abdominal muscular strength were significantly increased in the experimental group, and this indicates that the exercise therapy was effective for improvement of muscular strength. [Conclusion] We found that exercise therapy is an effective intervention that can reduce the pain of patients with chronic lower back pain. The firefighters with chronic lower back pain who participated in this study exhibited enhanced lower back muscular strength and obtained some additional benefits. They need regular exercise.Key words: Firefighters, Lower back pain, Muscular strength     

不同类型健身运动处方对女大学生心血管功能的影响

目的：研究探讨不同类型健身运动处方锻炼对女大学生心血管功能的影响，并比较其不同的健身效果。为提高女大学生课外体育锻炼的科学性、锻炼增强心血管功能的实效性提供实验参考。方法：通过制订以发展人体灵敏、力量、耐力、全面健康、增重、瘦身、速度及柔韧素质为主要内容的八套健身运动处方．并在大学课外活动中进行处方锻炼实验。结果：锻炼后各实验组脉压、血管弹性扩张系数、血管顺度、总血容量、微循环半更新率比锻炼前有不同程度增大，多数实验组主动脉排空系数比锻炼前增大，总外周阻力、左心室射血阻抗、血液黏度、微循环半更新时间、微循环平均滞留时间有不同程度的降低。结论：本实验制订的健身运动处方可有效增强女大学生的心血管功能．改善女大学生的血液状况，对女大学生微循环功能也有促进作用。