Acute effects of myofascial reorganization on trapezius muscle oxygenation in individuals with nonspecific neck pain

Background and purposeNonspecific neck pain (NNP) is a common idiopathic disorder in the general population that affects the trapezius muscle (TM) and blood supply, thereby compromising the fascial system. Myofascial reorganization (MR) is a physical therapy technique that can influence the dynamics of local fluids reducing excessive muscle tension and capillary constriction, and increasing local blood flow. This study aimed to investigate whether MR improves peripheral muscle oxygenation.MethodsThis was a quasi-experimental study with an intentional non-probability sample. Fifty participants (women: 36, men: 14) with and without NNP were assigned to either the experimental group (EG: n = 25, with NNP, subjected to MR) or the control group (CG: without NNP, no MR intervention). TM oxygenation was measured using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) before and after a single intervention. All participants were evaluated and reassessed after 10 min.ResultsThe results revealed that immediately after 10 min of MR, the EG exhibited an increase in the oxyhemoglobin level of the medium fibers of the TM (0.72 ± 1.47 vs. −0.14 ± 1.33 mmol/dL, p = 0.01). In addition, functional disability (CG: 5.48 ± 5.58%/EG: 21.12 ± 7.73%) and neck pain were measured using the neck disability index. The pain pressure threshold (CG: 70.49 ± 32.29 kgf/EG: 51.08 ± 27.65 kgf) and pain intensity (CG: 0.76 ± 1.56/EG: 3.28 ± 2.35) were also measured.ConclusionThe findings indicate that application of MR for 10 min increases the tissue oxyhemoglobin level in the TM of the group with NNP compared to the CG without NNP.     

The effect of core stability training with ball and balloon exercise on respiratory variables in chronic non-specific low back pain: An experimental study

BackgroundStudies have shown the involvement of respiratory characteristics and their relationship with impairments in non-specific low back pain (NS-LBP). The effects of core stability with a combined ball and balloon exercise (CBB) on respiratory variables had not been investigated.ObjectiveTo evaluate the effectiveness of CBB on respiratory variables among NS-LBP patients.Study designpre- and post-experimental study.ParticipantsForty participants were assigned to an experimental group (EG) [n = 20] and control group (CG) [n = 20] based on the study criteria.InterventionsThe EG received CBB together with routine physiotherapy and the CG received routine physiotherapy over a period of 8 weeks. Participants were instructed to carry out the exercises for 3 days per week. The training was evaluated once a week and the exercises progressed based on the level of pain. Outcome measures: Primary outcomes were maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP), maximum expiratory pressure (MEP) and maximum voluntary ventilation (MVV). The secondary outcomes were measured in the numeric rating scale (NRS), total faulty breathing scale (TFBS), cloth tape measure (CTM) and lumbo-pelvic stability. Results: The MIP increased significantly among the EG when compared with that in the CG (p > 0.05).The EG showed a significant increase in MVV (p = 0.04) when compared to the CG (p = 0.0001). There was a significant reduction in pain for both groups. The MEP, TFBS, chest expansion and core stability showed no changes in either group. Conclusion: CBB was effective in improving respiratory variables among NS-LBP patients.     

Immediate Effects of a Single Session of Cervical Spine Manipulation on Cervical Movement Patterns in People With Nonspecific Neck Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial

ObjectiveThe aim of the present study was to assess the immediate effects of a single session of cervical spine manipulation on cervical movement patterns, disability, and the patient's perceived improvement in people with nonspecific neck pain.MethodsA single-blinded, randomized, sham-controlled trial was carried out at a biomechanics institute. Fifty participants diagnosed with acute and chronic nonspecific neck pain (minimum duration of the symptoms being 1 month) were randomized to an experimental group (EG, n = 25) or a sham-control group (CG, n = 25, 23 of whom completed the study). EG received a single cervical spine manipulation session; CG received a single placebo intervention. Both groups received manipulation or sham from the same physiotherapist. Main outcome measures were neck kinematics (ie, range of motion and movement harmony) during cyclic movements, self-reported neck disability, and impression of change assessed before and 5 minutes after treatment.ResultsThe EG showed no significant improvements (P > .05) in any of the studied biomechanical variables, except for right-side bending and left rotation, in which we found a range of motion significant mean difference of 1.97° and 1.95°, respectively (P < .05). The CG showed enhanced harmonic motion during flexion (P < .05). Both groups showed a significant decrease in self-reported neck disability after treatment (P < .05), and EG participants perceived a significantly larger improvement after manipulation compared with the CG (P < .05).ConclusionsA single session of cervical manipulation provided by a physiotherapist had no impact on cervical motion during cyclic movements, but rather induced self-reported perceived improvement in neck disability and impression of change after treatment in people with nonspecific neck pain.     

Effects of core stabilization exercises on thickness and activity of trunk and hip muscles in subjects with nonspecific chronic low back pain

BackgroundChanges in trunk and hip muscles are believed to be important in subjects with nonspecific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP), but little is known about specific changes, or how they might be affected by core stabilization exercises. The aim of this study was to compare six key muscles before and after these exercises.MethodsThirty two NSCLBP patients were assigned randomly into two groups: exercise (n = 17) and control (n = 15). On 5 days per week for 4 weeks, the Exercise group performed 16 core stabilization exercises and the Control group received transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and a ‘hot-pack’. Surface electromyography (EMG) was used to assess maximum bilateral activity of transversus abdominis (TrA), multifidus (MF) and gluteus maximus (Gmax) muscles. Ultrasound imaging was used to measure the rest and contracted thickness of these muscles. Pain and disability were assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS) and the Oswestry Disability Index.ResultsWhen left and right-side muscle data were combined, two-way ANOVAs showed a nonsignificant interaction effect for all dependent variables (P > 0.05), significant time effects on resting muscle thickness for TrA (P = 0.01), MF (P = 0.041) and Gmax (P = 0.003), EMG signals of TrA (P = 0.038), pain and disability (P = 0.000). There were a significant group effect on contracted thickness for TrA (P = 0.032) and Gmax (P = 0.026) and disability (P = 0.017).ConclusionsCore stabilization exercises increased contracted thickness of TrA and Gmax muscles and decreased disability in subjects with NSCLBP.     

Accuracy of Palpation Procedures for Locating the C1 Transverse Process and Masseter Muscle as Confirmed by Computed Tomography Images

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to examine the accuracy of palpation methods for locating the transverse processes of the first cervical vertebra and masseter muscle using radiographic images as the gold-standard method and the association between personal characteristics with the observed accuracy.MethodsThis was a single-blinded, diagnostic accuracy study. Ninety-five participants (49 women, 58 ± 16 years of age) were enrolled in this study. A single examiner palpated the neck and face region of all participants to identify the transverse processes of the first cervical vertebra and masseter muscles bilaterally. In sequence, participants underwent a multislice computed tomography scan for assessment of the superimposed inner body structure. Two radiologists assessed the computed tomography images using the same criteria and were blinded regarding each other's assessment and the anatomic landmarks under investigation. The palpation accuracy was calculated as the proportion of the correctly identified landmarks in the studied sample. The correlation of the palpation outcome (correct = 1; incorrect = 0) with age, sex (male = 1; female = 0), and body mass index was investigated using the point-biserial correlation coefficient.ResultsThe right and left transverse processes were correctly located in 76 (80%) and 81 (85%) participants, respectively, and bilaterally in 157 events (83%), as evaluated by the consensus of the 2 radiologists. The masseter muscles were correctly localized bilaterally in 95 of 95 (100%) participants. Body mass showed statistical evidence of a weak, positive correlation with the correct location of the transverse processes of the first cervical vertebra at the right body side (r = .219; 95% confidence interval, 0.018-0.403; P = .033).ConclusionPalpation methods used in this study accurately identified the location of the first cervical vertebra spinous processes and the masseter muscles.     

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for the control of pain during rehabilitation after total knee arthroplasty: A randomized,blinded, placebo-controlled trial

This study evaluated the efficacy of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) in reducing pain and hyperalgesia and increasing function after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We hypothesized that participants using TENS during rehabilitation exercises would report significantly lower pain during range-of-motion (ROM) activity and fast walking but not at rest, would have less hyperalgesia, and would have better function than participants receiving placebo-TENS or standard care. We also hypothesized that change in ROM pain would differ based on psychological characteristics (trait anxiety, pain catastrophizing, and depression) and treatment group. This prospective, randomized study used intent-to-treat analyses in 317 participants after primary, unilateral TKA. Assessors, blinded to treatment allocation, measured pain, function (ROM and gait speed), and hyperalgesia (quantitative sensory tests) postoperatively and 6 weeks after surgery. Analgesic intake, anxiety, depression, and pain catastrophizing were also assessed. TENS participants used it 1 to 2 times per day at 42 mA (on average) and had less pain postoperatively during active knee extension (P = .019) and fast walking (P = .006) than standard care participants. TENS and placebo-TENS were not significantly different. TENS participants who scored low on anxiety and pain catastrophizing had a greater reduction in ROM pain at 6 weeks than those who scored high on these factors (P = .002 and P = .03). Both TENS and placebo-TENS participants had less postoperative mechanical hyperalgesia (P = .03–.01) than standard care participants. Supplementing pharmacologic analgesia with TENS during rehabilitation exercises reduces movement pain postoperatively, but a placebo influence exists and the effect is gone by 6 weeks. Patients with low anxiety and pain catastrophizing may benefit most from TENS.     

Are People With Joint Hypermobility Syndrome Slow to Strengthen?

ObjectivesTo investigate whether the rate of change of muscle strength in people with joint hypermobility syndrome (JHS) who have anterior knee pain (AKP) differs when compared to 2 control groups who have AKP and to evaluate the relationship between strength and pain as well as the effect of strength upon activity and knee function.DesignA cohort study, with 3 groups: JHS with AKP, generalized joint hypermobility with AKP (GJH), and normal flexibility with AKP (control group [CG]). Follow-up appointments were performed every 2 weeks for 16 weeks.SettingThe physiotherapy outpatient department within a London (United Kingdom) hospital.ParticipantsA total of 102 people, aged between 18 and 55 years, were recruited between July 2014 and March 2016; 47 JHS, 29 GJH, and 26 CG (N=102). After 16 weeks, 31, 20, and 21 participants completed the study, respectively. Participants were recruited from support groups, a London hospital group and university, local sports centers, and clubs.InterventionsIndividualized leg exercises for 16 weeks.Main Outcome MeasureMuscle torque generated from the lower limb, every 2 weeks for 16 weeks.ResultsThere was no difference in the rate of change of concentric muscle strength between the JHS group and the CG or GJH group (P>.88 and P>.97). There was no difference in the rate of change of eccentric muscle strength between the JHS group and the CG or GJH group (P>.60 and P>.94). However, people with JHS were significantly weaker than the other 2 groups, taking 3 to 4 months to reach the baseline strength of the GJH group.ConclusionPeople with JHS can strengthen at the same rate as other people in pain.     

Effect of increased relative stiffness of the lumbar spine on hamstring muscle stretching in individuals with a history of low back pain suspected to have a clinical lumbar instability: A randomized crossover design

BackgroundTheoretically, lumbopelvic stabilization techniques during hamstring muscle stretching could increase lumbar stiffness relative to hamstring muscle in individuals with a history of low back pain and suspected clinical lumbar instability. However, evidence to support this theory is limited. This study aimed to 1) determine changes in lumbopelvic, lumbar, and hip motions, and hamstring muscle length after stretching exercises with lumbopelvic stiffening or relaxing techniques, and 2) compare those changes between techniques.MethodsThis study used a randomized crossover design. Thirty-two participants with a history of low back pain and bilateral hamstring muscle tightness were recruited. The order of the first technique was randomly assigned. After a 2-day washout, participants were crossed over to the second technique. Motion data during active forward trunk bending and bilateral hamstring muscle length during passive knee extension were collected pre- and post-intervention.FindingsSignificant increases (P < 0.05) were found in bilateral hamstring muscle length for both techniques. However, stiffening technique demonstrated a significant decrease in lumbar motion (P < 0.05) and increase in hip motion (P < 0.05), while relaxing technique demonstrated trends showing increases in lumbar and hip motions (P = 0.134 and 0.115, respectively). The findings showed significantly greater improvement (P < 0.05) in lumbar and hip motions with stiffening technique.InterpretationThe findings suggest increased relative stiffness of the lumbar spine during hamstring muscle stretching can specifically lengthen bilateral hamstring muscle and decrease excessive lumbar motion. This stiffening technique may prevent excessive movement of the lumbar spine, thereby reducing the risk of recurrent low back pain.     

Slowing in Peak-Alpha Frequency Recorded After Experimentally-Induced Muscle Pain is not Significantly Different Between High and Low Pain-Sensitive Subjects

Peak alpha frequency (PAF) reduces during cutaneous pain, but no studies have investigated PAF during movement-related muscle pain. Whether high-pain sensitive (HPS) individuals exhibit a more pronounced PAF response to pain than low-pain sensitive (LPS) individuals is unclear. As a pain model, twenty-four participants received nerve growth factor injections into a wrist extensor muscle at Day 0, Day 2, and Day 4. At Day 4, a subgroup of twelve participants also undertook eccentric wrist exercise to induce additional pain. Pain numerical rating scale (NRS) scores and electroencephalography were recorded at Day 0 (before injection), Day 4, and Day 6 for 3 minutes (eyes closed) with wrist at rest (Resting-state) and extension (Contraction-state). The average pain NRS scores in contraction-state across Days were used to divide participants into HPS (NRS-scores≥2) and LPS groups. PAF was calculated by frequency decomposition of electroencephalographic recordings. Compared with Day 0, contraction NRS-scores only increased in HPS-group at Day 4 and Day 6 (P < .001). PAF in Contraction-state decreased in both groups at Day 6 compared with Day 0 (P = .011). Across days, HPS-group showed faster PAF than LPS-group during Resting-state and Contraction-state (P < .04). Average pain NRS-scores across days during Contraction-states correlated with PAF at Day 0 (P = .012). Pain NRS-scores were associated with PAF during Contraction-state at Day 4 and Day 6 (P < .05).PerspectivePAF was slowed during long-lasting movement-related pain in both groups, suggesting a widespread change in cortical excitability independent of the pain sensitivity. Moreover, HPS individuals showed faster PAF than LPS individuals during muscle pain, which may reflect a different cognitive, emotional, or attentional response to muscle pain among individuals.     

Should Exercises be Painful or not? Effects on Clinical and Experimental Pain in Individuals with Shoulder Pain

Exercise can reduce pain, however the effect of painful versus non-painful exercises is uncertain. The primary aim of this randomized crossover study was to compare the effect of painful versus nonpainful isometric shoulder exercises on pain intensity after exercise in individuals with rotator cuff-related shoulder pain. Secondary exploratory aims were to describe the effects on pressure pain thresholds (PPTs), conditioned pain modulation (CPM) and muscle strength. On separate days, 35 individuals performed painful isometric shoulder exercises (external rotation; 20% above pain threshold), nonpainful isometric shoulder exercises (external rotation; 20% below pain threshold), and a rest condition, in randomised order. Shoulder pain intensity, PPTs, CPM, and external rotation strength were assessed before, immediately after and 45 minutes after conditions. No significant differences were observed between painful and nonpainful exercises. Visual analogue scale scores increased immediately after both painful and non-painful exercises compared with rest (P = .047, partial ƞ² = .07), but were similar to preexercise levels after 45 minutes. No changes in PPTs, CPM, or muscle strength after exercises compared with rest were observed. Painful and non-painful isometric exercises caused a moderate but short-lasting increase in shoulder pain in individuals with RCRSP. Isometric exercises had no effect on pain sensitivity and shoulder muscle strength or CPM.PerspectiveThis study evaluated for the first time in individuals with rotator cuff-related shoulder pain the effects of painful versus non-painful isometric exercises on different pain-related outcome measures. Both painful and non-painful isometric exercises caused a moderate but relatively short-lasting increase in shoulder pain in individuals with rotator cuff-related shoulder pain.Trial registration number: (ClinicalTrials.gov) NCT03675399     

Intervention study of finger-movement exercises and finger weight-lift training for improvement of handgrip strength among the very elderly

ObjectivesTo examine the effects of finger-movement exercises and finger weight-lift training on handgrip strength and Activities of Daily Living Scale (ADLS) values.MethodsA total of 80 very elderly adults (aged ≥80 years) were assigned to either an intervention group (n = 40) or a control group (n = 40). Subjects in the intervention group performed finger-movement exercises and weight-lift training for a period of 3 months, while subjects in the control group received no intervention, and were unaware of the interventions received in the other group.ResultsAfter completing 3 months of finger-movement exercises and weight-lift training, the average handgrip strength of the 40 participants in the intervention group had increased by 2.1 kg, whereas that in the control group decreased by 0.27 kg (P < 0.05). After receiving intervention, the number of subjects in the intervention group with an ADLS score >22 points decreased by 7.5% (P < 0.05, vs. pre-intervention).ConclusionsThe combined use intervention with finger-movement exercises and proper finger weight-lift training improved the handgrip strength and ADLS values of very elderly individuals. These rehabilitation exercises may be used to help the elderly maintain their self-care abilities.     

Abdominal muscle contraction thickness and function after specific and general exercises: A randomized controlled trial in chronic low back pain patients

The aim of this study was to assess changes in deep abdominal muscle function after 8 weeks of exercise in chronic low back pain patients. Patients (n = 109) were randomized to specific ultrasound guided, sling or general exercises. Contraction thickness ratio in transversus abdominis (TrA), obliquus internus (OI) and externus (OE), and TrA lateral slide were assessed during the abdominal drawing-in maneuver by b-mode ultrasound. Changes in abdominal muscle function were also regressed on changes in pain. Only modest effects in deep abdominal muscle function were observed, mainly due to reduced activation of OI (contraction thickness ratio: 1.42–1.22, p = 0.01) and reduced TrA lateral slide (1.26–1.01 cm, p = 0.02) in the ultrasound group on the left side. Reduced pain was associated with increased TrA and reduced OI contraction ratio (R² = 0.18). It is concluded that 6–8 treatments with specific or general exercises for chronic low back patients attained only marginal changes in contraction thickness and slide in deep abdominal muscles, and could only to a limited extent account for reductions in pain.     

Efficacy of core exercises in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee: A randomized controlled clinical trial

Trial designRandomized, evaluator blinded, controlled, parallel group.MethodsThis trial was conducted between July 2011 and January 2015 at a public hospital in Argentina. Patients older than 40 years with a medical diagnosis of osteoarthritis (OA) were randomly assigned to the experimental group (EG) or control group (CG). Both groups performed conventional exercises 3 times a week for 12 weeks and core exercises were added to the EG intervention.The objective was to compare the efficacy of conventional treatment combined with core muscle strengthening exercises, with conventional treatment alone in terms of short- and medium-term pain reduction and physical function in patients with knee OA.The primary outcome was knee pain assessed using a visual analog scale and the secondary outcome was physical function assessed at baseline, week 8 and 12, and 2 follow-up visits held 1 month and 3 months after the end of treatment.Results113 patients were randomized to a CG (n = 60) or EG (n = 53). 66 patients were eliminated and 25 patients in the EG and 22 in the CG were analyzed.Both pain reduction and improved physical function were observed throughout the intervention in both groups. At the end of the treatment, a statistically and clinically significant pain reduction was observed in the EG. No adverse effects were reported.ConclusionThe combination of core muscle activation exercises and conventional treatment was more effective in short-term pain reduction in patients with knee OA.     

Intervention programme to improve knowledge,attitudes, and behaviour of nursing students towards organ donation and transplantation: A randomised controlled trial

AimTo develop and evaluate an educational programme aimed at undergraduate training to increase and improve knowledge, attitudes and behaviour towards the organ and tissue donation and transplants (OTDT).BackgroundThe request for OTDT falls on the health personnel and the reduction of family refusals depends on their attitude and competence, which is vital to increase OTDT. The evidence highlights the efficacy of starting training at early stages and the implementation of educational programmes in universities is recommended to reduce family refusals.DesignA randomised controlled trial.MethodsA randomised controlled trial with an experimental group (EG) –theory class and round table- and a control group (CG) –theory class- that transitions to a delayed experimental group. A sample of 73 students was distributed in parallel randomised groups.ResultsThe groups increased their knowledge and improved their attitude, significantly changing their behaviour in the follow-up. These changes in the experimental groups were more significant than in CG in perceived quality of information (z = −4.948; p = <0.001), level of knowledge (EG1 and CG z = −2.245; p = 0.025) (EG2 and CG z = −2.215; p = 0.027), attitude (EG1 and CG z = −2.687; p = 0.007) (EG2 and CG z = −2.198; p = 0.028) and behaviour (EG1 and CG t = 2.054; p = 0.044) (EG2 and CG z = −2.797; p = 0.005).ConclusionsThe education programme has proven effective, promoting knowledge, change and entrenchment of attitudes, facilitating conversations with families, enabling willingness to donate and increasing potential donors.     

Immediate Effects of Single-Session Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Exercises on the Sit-to-Stand Strategy in Patients With Chronic Lumbar Spinal Disc Disease: A Preliminary Study

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to measure the immediate effects of single-session proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation exercises on the sit-to-stand (STS) task and level of pain in patients with chronic low back pain.MethodsFifty-three patients were assigned to the control and intervention groups. The total time was 30 minutes (each exercise 5 minutes). The minimum vertical ground reaction force (VGRF_min) and maximum vertical ground reaction force (VGRF_max) and time phases (T_min – time to counterforce, T_max – time to peak force, T_tot – time to post-peak rebound force) were measured with a Kistler force plate in eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions during the STS task. Pain level was determined on a numeric rating scale.ResultsMain effects were observed only in the intervention group: decreasing pain value (F = 25.398, P < .0001), increasing T_min (F = 5.72, P = .0044), decreasing T_max (F = 3.43, P = .04), and decreasing T_tot (F = 3.935, P = .02258). There was a main effect of the eyes factor on VGRF_min (F = 12.53, P < .0001) and VGRF_max (F = 7.16, P < .01).ConclusionImmediate effects of single-session proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation exercises were observed in decreasing the level of pain. Adaptation effects were noted in the retention test. The STS task could be optimized in time phases and dynamic movements in patients with chronic low back pain.     

Effect of an exercise program with blood flow restriction on the muscular strength of patients with chronic kidney disease: A randomized clinical trial

IntroductionAn arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is performed in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients before hemodialysis, who may benefit from exercise. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of an exercise program associated with partial limb blood flow restriction (BFR) on handgrip strength (HGS) and forearm circumference of CKD patients.MethodsA total of 26 patients with CKD were randomized to the BFR experimental group (EG, n = 12) and to the non-BFR control group (CG, n = 14) prior to AVF, and underwent isometric exercises for the flexor muscles of the fingers and elbow where the AVF will be performed.ResultsThere were no differences at the end of eight weeks of training between the EG and CG groups [F (1.23) = 0.03, p = 0.96] regarding the HGS and the forearm circumference [F (1.23) = 0.90, p = 0.76], however muscle strength [F (1.23) = 189.84, p < 0.001] and forearm circumference [F (1.23) = 540.90, p < 0.001] improved between baseline and the results at the end of the program.ConclusionPartial BFR training was not superior to the CG for the outcomes evaluated in this study. Further studies should be conducted so that an indication of an exercise protocol for the evaluated outcomes is prescribed in order to be effectively offered in clinical practice.     

Intrinsic foot muscle strengthening exercises with electromyographic biofeedback achieve increased toe flexor strength in older adults: A pilot randomized controlled trial

BackgroundToe flexor strength is important for preventing older adults from falling. Although intrinsic foot muscles are the main determinants of toe flexor strength, exercises for strengthening these muscles are difficult for older adults. This study therefore aimed to determine whether the use of electromyographic biofeedback helps older adults to perform intrinsic foot muscle strengthening exercises.MethodsThis randomized controlled trial had two parallel arms. Participants were randomly allocated to the control group or the electromyographic biofeedback group. Control participants performed two progressive intrinsic foot muscle strengthening exercises twice a week for 6 weeks. Participants in the other group performed these exercises assisted by electromyographic biofeedback. Primary outcome measures were changes in toe flexor strength and the timed up-and-go and functional reach tests (the latter two being balance tests).FindingsAltogether, 23 older adults were randomized to the control group (n = 12) or the electromyographic biofeedback group (n = 11). After the 6-week intervention, toe flexor strength on the dominant side increased in both groups (P < 0.017). However, toe flexor strength on the nondominant side increased only in the electromyographic biofeedback group (P < 0.017), with a large effect size of 1.5. There were no changes in the two balance tests. Three of the control group and two of the electromyographic biofeedback group were lost to follow- up.InterpretationOur results indicate that, the use of electromyographic biofeedback can enhance the effect of intrinsic foot muscle strengthening exercises on the nondominant side in older adults.Clinical trial registration number: UMIN000036521.     

Influence of Neck Pain,Cervical Extensor Muscle Fatigue,and Manual Therapy on Wrist Proprioception

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to examine the effects of submaximal isometric neck muscle fatigue and manual therapy on wrist joint position sense (JPS) within healthy individuals and individuals with subclinical neck pain (SCNP).MethodsTwelve healthy participants and 12 participants with SCNP were recruited. Each group completed 2 sessions, with 48 hours between sessions. On day 1, both groups performed 2 wrist JPS tests using a robotic device. The tests were separated by a submaximal isometric fatigue protocol for the cervical extensor muscles (CEM). On day 2, both groups performed a wrist JPS test, followed by a cervical treatment consisting of manual therapy (SCNP) or neck rest (20 minutes, control group) and another wrist JPS test. Joint position sense was measured as the participant's ability to recreate a previously presented wrist angle. Each wrist JPS test included 12 targets, 6 into wrist flexion and 6 into wrist extension. Kinematic data from the robot established absolute, variability, and constant error.ResultsAbsolute error significantly decreased (P = .01) from baseline to post-fatigue in the SCNP group (baseline = 4.48 ± 1.58°; post-fatigue = 3.90 ± 1.45°) and increased in the control group (baseline = 3.12 ± 0.98°; post-fatigue = 3.81 ± 0.90°). The single session of manual cervical treatment significantly decreased absolute error in participants with SCNP (P = .004).ConclusionThis study demonstrated that neck pain or fatigue can lead to altered afferent input to the central nervous system and can affect wrist JPS. Our findings demonstrate that acute wrist proprioception may be improved in individuals with SCNP by a single cervical manual therapy session.