Effect of Thoracic Stretching,Thoracic Extension Exercise and Exercises for Cervical and Scapular Posture on Thoracic Kyphosis Angle and Upper Thoracic Pain

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of thoracic stretching, a thoracic extension exercise and exercises for cervical and scapular posture on thoracic kyphosis angle and upper thoracic pain. [Subject] A 36-year-old male, who complained of upper thoracic pain at the T1–4 level with forward head and round shoulders, was the subject. [Methods] He performed thoracic stretching (session 1), a thoracic extension exercise (session 2), and muscle exercises for cervical and scapular posture (session 3). [Results] The upper thoracic pressure pain threshold increased after session 1, session 2, and session 3. The thoracic kyphosis angle decreased after session 1, session 2, and session 3. [Conclusion] We suggest that intervention for thoracic pain or kyphotic thoracic correction should use not only an approach for extending the thoracic muscles, but also an approach treating muscles in the cervical and scapular region.Key words: Kyphosis, Posture correction, Thoracic pain     

How Different Knee Flexion Angles Influence the Hip Extensor in the Prone Position

[Purpose] The present study examined the effects of knee flexion angle on hip extensor muscle activity. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty healthy subjects maintained knee flexion angles of 0°, 30°, 60°, 90° and 110° in the prone position and performed maximal voluntary contraction in hip extension. Maximum torque in hip extension at the different angles was measured, and surface electromyogram activities of the gluteus maximus (GM), biceps femoris (BF) and semitendinosus (ST) were recorded and normalized by the maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC). [Results] The maximum torque of the hip extensor showed significant decreases between 0°and 60°, 90° and 110° of knee flexion. The muscle activity of BF was significantly high at 0°, and GM showed a significantly higher activity than both BF and ST at 60°, 90°and 110° of knee flexion. [Conclusion] The maximum torque in hip extension and muscle activities of BF and ST were significantly high at 0° but they decreased at knee flexion angles of more than 60°. Therefore, we consider that more than 60° of knee joint flexion is required to increase GM activity, and to reduce the muscle activities of BF and ST.Key words: Gluteus maximus, Hamstring muscle, Prone hip extension     

A Sloped Seat Wedge Can Change the Kinematics of the Lumbar Spine of Seated Workers with Limited Hip Flexion

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to determine whether a wedge type seat decreases the lumbar flexion angle of seated workers with limited hip flexion. [Subjects] Twelve sedentary workers with limited hip flexion were recruited. [Methods] Three seat surfaces were used: a level surface, a forward-inclining wedge, and a backward-reclining wedge. The angles of lumbar flexion and pelvic tilt were measured using a three-dimensional motion analysis system. Differences in kinematic data of the subjects seated on the three seat surfaces were analyzed using repeated one-way analysis of variance. [Results] The degree of lumbar flexion decreased significantly when using the forward-inclining wedge compared with the level surface and backward-reclining wedge. [Conclusion] These findings suggest that sitting on a forward-inclining wedge may be useful for minimizing the compensatory lumbar flexion of individuals with limited hip flexion who work in a seated position.Key words: Kinematics, Limited hip flexion, Seat wedge     

胸腔镜技术在脊柱前路手术中的应用

目的：评价胸腔镜技术在脊柱前路手术中的应用效果。方法：回顾性分析应用胸腔镜技术治疗的29例患者,其中胸椎骨折脱位8例,胸椎半椎体畸形2例,胸椎结核并椎旁脓肿17例,胸椎肿瘤2例,胸腔镜闭合操作14例,小切口胸腔镜辅助手术15例,结果：平均手术时间120min(115-230min),平均出血量350ml(200-610ml),平均胸腔引流320ml(210-420ml),术后除3例完全性瘫痪无恢复,其余病例临床症状及神经功能明显改善,1例并发症包括包裹性胸腔积液,1例出现短暂性下肢瘫痪,无其它术中,术后并发症,所有病人随访2－22个月。结论：胸腔镜（或扩大切口辅助）下脊柱前路手术切口,创伤小,并发症及出血量少,术后恢复快,结合传统与镜下操作器械,为胸椎前路手术提供了一种简单,安全,有效的手术操作技术。     

Influence of Hip Joint Position on Muscle Activity during Prone Hip Extension with Knee Flexion

[Purpose] This study investigated the selective activation of the gluteus maximus during a prone hip extension with knee flexion exercise, with the hip joint in different positions. [Subjects] The subjects were 21 healthy, male volunteers. [Methods] Activities of the right gluteus maximus, right hamstrings, bilateral lumbar erector spinae, and bilateral lumbar multifidus were measured using surface electromyography during a prone hip extension with knee flexion exercise. Measurements were made with the hip joint in each of 3 positions: (1) a neutral hip joint position, (2) an abduction hip joint position, and (3) an abduction with external rotation hip joint position. [Results] Gluteus maximus activity was significantly higher when the hip was in the abduction with external rotation hip joint position than when it was in the neutral hip joint and abduction hip joint positions. Gluteus maximus activity was also significantly higher in the abduction hip joint position than in the neutral hip joint position. Hamstring activity was significantly lower when the hip was in the abduction with external rotation hip joint position than when it was in the neutral hip joint and abduction hip joint positions. [Conclusion] Abduction and external rotation of the hip during prone hip extension with knee flexion exercise selectively activates the gluteus maximus.Key words: Prone hip extension with knee flexion, Hip joint position, Electromyography     

综合康复疗法治疗胸腰椎压缩性骨折

胸腰椎压缩性骨折是临床上常见的疾病,我们采用腰背部后方垫高、腰椎纵向牵引、配合腰背肌功能锻炼综合治疗,取得了较好的效果。     

Effects of Cervical Flexion on the Flexion-relaxation Ratio during Smartphone Use

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to measure the cervical flexion-relaxation ratio (FRR) and intensity of neck pain and identify the differences according to postures adopted while using smartphones. [Subjects] Fifteen healthy adults with no neck pain, spinal trauma, or history cervical surgery participated in this study. [Methods] The activity of the cervical erector spinae muscle was recorded while performing a standardized cervical flexion-extension movement in three phases (flexion, sustained full flexion, extension). And neck pain intensity was recorded using a visual analog scale (VAS) with values between 0 and 10. Postures held while using a smartphone are distinguished between desk postures and lap postures. The FRR was calculated by dividing the maximal muscle activation during the extension phase by average activation during the complete flexion phase. [Results] No significant differences were found in the FRR between desk posture, lap posture, and baseline, though the intensity of the neck pain increased in the lap posture. [Conclusion] The FRR could be a significant criterion of neuromuscular impairment in chronic neck pain or lumbar pain patients, but it is impossible to distinguish neck pain that is caused by performing task for a short time. Prolonged lap posture might cause neck pain, so the use of smartphones for a long time in this posture should be avoided.Key words: Smartphone, Cervical flexion-relaxation ratio, Electromyography     

Immediate Effects of Thoracic Spine Thrust Manipulation on Neurodynamic Mobility

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the immediate effects of thoracic spine thrust manipulation (TSM) on the upper limb provocation test (ULPT) and seated slump test (SST) in individuals with identified neurodynamic mobility impairments. A secondary aim was to determine if correlation existed between the perception of effect and improvements in neurodynamic mobility following a thrust manipulation compared with mobilization.

胸脊柱脊髓损伤的治疗

目的总结胸脊柱脊髓损伤的临床特点,分析细胞移植治疗临床试验的入选标准.方法对1990年10月～2005年10月收治的72例胸脊柱脊髓损伤患者的临床资料进行回顾性分析.结果平均随访时间20个月（6～48个月）,12例脊髓完全损害ASIA A级均无恢复,仅4例有尿淋漓者症状好转;52例伴骨折脱位全瘫患者仅有5例恢复为B级,主要为感觉平面下降2～3个节段,余无恢复,恢复率9.6%;8例不全瘫患者恢复率62.5%;嗅鞘细胞移植患者感觉功能恢复明显,优于运动功能恢复,痉挛瘫有所改善.结论胸脊柱脊髓损伤全瘫率高,神经功能恢复差;细胞移植临床试验的入选标准为无残留压迫的陈旧性胸脊髓完全性损伤.     

Disc Related and Non-Disc Related Disorders of the Thoracic Spine

Abstract: Different anatomical structures and pathophysiological functions can be responsible for lumbar pain, each producing a distinctive clinical profile. Pain can arise from the intervertebral disc, either acutely as a primary disc related disorder, or as result of the degradation associated with chronic internal disc disruption. In either case, greatest pain provocation will be associated with movements and functions in the sagittal plane. Lumbar pain can also arise from afflictions within the zygapophyseal joint mechanism, as a result of synovitis or chondropathy. Either of these conditions will produce the greatest pain provocation during three-dimensional movements, due to maximal stress to either the synovium or joint cartilage. Finally, patients can experience different symptoms associated with irritation to the dural sleeve, dorsal root ganglion, or chemically irritated lumbar nerve root. Differential diagnosis of these conditions requires a thorough examination and provides information that can assist the clinician in selecting appropriate management strategies.     

The Effect of Shoulder Flexion Angles on the Recruitment of Upper-extremity Muscles during Isometric Contraction

The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences in muscle activation patterns of the biceps brachii (BB) and flexor carpi radialis (FCR) muscles, while measuring the resultant force (RF) at different shoulder flexion angles. [Subjects] Thirteen healthy males (age 24.85±3.4 years, weight; 77.8±7.9 kg; height, 1.7±0.05 m) were enrolled in this study. [Methods] The resultant force was measured by a force transducer . The elbow angle remained constant and the flexion shoulder angle was changed (30°, 45°, 60°, 75° and 90°). [Results] The results of the surface EMG show the largest muscle activities occurred at a shoulder flexion of 75° for BB and 90° for FCR. The largest resultant force was measured at a shoulder flexion angle of 75°. We conclude, that when performing the biceps curl exercise using an arm curl machine, the shoulder should be flexed at 75° to maximize the focus of the exercise for the BB. [Conclusion] These results are useful from the perspective of design as they highlight the differences in the muscle activation of BB and FCR with postural change. Ultimately this knowledge can be used in the design of rehabilitation training for the shoulder as they show that posture can affect muscle activation.     

The Effects of Taping Prior to PNF Treatment on Lower Extremity Proprioception of Hemiplegic Patients

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of taping on the articular angle of the knee joint and on the functioning of patients with hemiplegia resulting from stroke. [Subjects] The subjects of this study were 30 patients who were diagnosed with hemiplegia due to stroke. The subjects were randomly assigned to either an experimental group which received proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation combination patterns and kinesio taping were applied, or a control group which received neurodevelopmental treatment. [Methods] Joint angle was measured at the hip and the ankle for both the paretic and non-paretic sides using a goniometer. Dynamic balance ability was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale. Gait velocity was measured as the 10-m walking time using a stopwatch. [Results] Comparative analysis of the experimental group''s pre-test and post-test results showed statistically significant differences in the BBS and 10-m walking test. There were significant differences between the groups in ankle dorsiflexion, BBS, and 10-m walking times. [Conclusion] We judge the application of taping on the knee joint prior to rehabilitation treatment for patients in accordance with nervous system damage positively influences their functional improvement.Key words: Stroke, Hemiplegia, Kinesio taping     

Comparison of Upper Cervical Flexion and Cervical Flexion Angle of Computer Workers with Upper Trapezius and Levator Scapular Pain

[Purpose] In this study, we compared upper cervical flexion and cervical flexion angle of computer workers with upper trapezius and levator scapular pain. [Subject] Eight male computer workers with upper trapezius muscle pain and eight others with levator scapular muscle pain participated. [Methods] Each subject was assessed in terms of upper cervical flexion angle and total cervical flexion angles using a cervical range of motion instrument after one hour of computer work. [Results] The upper cervical flexion angle of the group with levator scapular pain was significantly lower than that of the group with upper trapezius pain after computer work. The total cervical flexion angle of the group with upper trapezius pain was significantly lower than that of the group with levator scapular pain after computer work. [Conclusion] For selective and effective intervention for neck pain, therapists should evaluate upper and lower cervical motion individually.Key words: Cervical range of motion, Neck pain, Upper cervical flexion     

Comparison of Muscle Activation during Dominant Hand Wrist Flexion when Writing

[Purpose] This study investigated the difference in muscle activation of the dominant upper extremity in right-handed and left-handed persons during writing. [Subjects] There were 36 subjects (16 left- handers/ 20 right- handers), and the study was conducted from 03/01/2012 to 30/3/2012. [Methods] Six electrodes were attached to the FCU (flexor carpi ulnaris), FCR (flexor carpi radialis), ECU (extensor carpi ulnaris), ECR (extensor carpi radialis), and both UT (upper trapezius) muscles. [Results] FCU muscle activation was 16.77±9.12% in left-handers and 10.29±4.13% (%MVIC) in right-handers. FCR muscle activation was 19.09±9.43% in left-handers and 10.64±5.03% in right-handers. In addition, the UT muscle activation on the writing hand side was 11.91±5.79% in left-handers and 1.66±1.19% in right-handers. [Conclusion] As a result of this study, it was discovered that left-handers used more wrist flexion in performance of the writing task with the dominant upper extremity than right-handers, and that the left-handers activated the wrist and shoulder muscles more than the right-handers. These results indicate a potential danger of musculoskeletal disease in left-hander.Key words: Hand function, Left-hander, Muscle activation     

Thoracic Spine Pain and Factors Associated in High School Students

BackgroundThoracic spine pain (TSP) is relatively common in children and adolescents.AimsTo determine the prevalence of TSP in adolescents and analyze its association with sociodemographic characteristics, use of electronic devices, physical activity, and mental health.DesignCross-sectional epidemiological study.SettingA high school in Bauru City, São Paulo, Brazil.Participants/SubjectsIn total, 1,628 students aged 14-18 years.MethodsParticipants were selected by cluster sampling in two stages, and data were collected via face-to-face interviews. Data regarding the following were collected: (1) sociodemographic aspects; (2) use of electronic devices; (3) regular physical activity level; (4) mental health; and (5) TSP.ResultsThe prevalence of TSP was 51.5% (95% confidence interval, 49.1-53.9) and the variables associated with TSP were female participant sex (prevalence ratio [PR] = 1.96; 1.61-2.38), use of computers for >3 hours per day (PR = 1.29; 1.01-1.66), use of computers >3 times per week (PR = 1.35; 1.03-1.75), use of cell phones in a semi-lying position (PR = 1.37; 1.11-1.69), use of cell phones for >3 hours per day (PR = 1.44; 1.12-1.85), use of tablets in the sitting position (PR = 1.47; 1.07-2.01), and presence of mental health problems (PR = 2.10; 1.63–2.70). Physical activity was a protective factor (PR = 0.84; 0.73-0.96).ConclusionsThere is a high prevalence of TSP in adolescents, with a marked association with female participant sex, use of electronic devices, and presence of mental health problems Physical activity is a protective factor. Understanding the relationship between risk factors and adolescent spinal pain may be important in both the prevention and treatment of spinal pain in this age group.     

The Effect of Kinesio Taping in Forward Bending of the Lumbar Spine

[Purpose] The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of a lumbar fascia Kinesio Taping^® technique forward bending range of motion. [Subjects and Methods] This was a longitudinal study with a randomized clinical trial composed of 39 subjects divided into three groups (control, Kinesio Without Tension-KWT, and Kinesio Fascia Correction-KFC). The subjects were assessed by Schober and fingertip-to-floor tests and left the tape in place for 48 hours before being reassessed 24 hours, 48 hours and 30 days after its removal. [Results] In all three experimental groups no significant differences were observed with the Schober test, but it was possible to observe an increase in lumbar flexion after 30 days. With the fingertip-to-floor distance assessment, the KFC and KWT groups showed significantly improved flexibility 24 hours and 48 hours after tape removal. [Conclusion] The Kinesio Taping^® influenced fascia mobility, allowing for slight improvement of lumbar flexibility.Key words: Kinesio Taping, Low back mobility, Fascia     

Effect of the Shoulder Flexion Angle in the Sagittal Plane on the Muscle Activities of the Upper Extremities when Performing Push-up plus Exercises on an Unstable Surface

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of the shoulder flexionangle on the muscle activities of the upper extremities when performing the push-up plusexercise (PUPE) on an unstable surface with the forearm in the external rotation position.[Subjects] The subjects were conducted on 15 normal male adults. [Methods] A sling devicewas used for the unstable surface, and PUPE was performed with the forearm in the externalrotation position. The shoulder flexion angles measured in the sagittal plane were 110°,90°, and 70°. Electromyography was used for a comparitive analysis of the muscleactivities of the serratus anterior (SA), the pectoralis major (PM), and the uppertrapezius (UT). [Results] In the intra-group comparison, the muscle activity of SA wasstatistically the highest when the shoulder-flexion angle was 110°. [Conclusion]performing PUPE on an unstable surface, the muscle activity of the SA is activated themost when the shoulder flexion angle is 110° and the forearm is in the external rotationposition.     

Updated Perspectives on Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Pain represents a foremost feature of neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (NTOS). Similar to other persistent pain conditions, the physical discomfort associated with NTOS can cause severe and often debilitating symptoms. In fact, those suffering from the syndrome report a quality of life impacted as significantly as those with chronic heart failure. This evidence-based literature review focuses on the classification, etiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic measures, and surgical treatment of NTOS, with a focus on nonoperative therapies such as physical modalities, pharmacological therapies, and more contemporary minimally invasive intramuscular treatments with botulinum toxin.