Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness最新文献

Background: This proof-of-concept study aimed to evaluate the short-term effects of cryo-plus-ultrasound treatment on pain and functioning in patients with acute long head of biceps tendinopathy (LHBT), through clinical and instrumental assessment with measurement of shearwave sonoelastography.

Methods: Adults with anterior shoulder pain and dysfunction (symptoms persisting for at least 2 weeks), diagnosed by imaging as LHBT, were randomly assigned to the experimental group (receiving active cryo-ultrasound therapy combined with conventional physical therapy) or control group (sham cryo-ultrasound therapy combined with conventional physical therapy). Pain intensity and physical functioning were assessed by the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), handgrip strength (HGS), Euro-QoL, QuickDASH, and tendon stiffness with a SWE assessment baseline (T0) at the end of treatment (T1), and after one month (T2) after the end of the treatment.

Results: Twenty-one patients with LHBT tendinopathy, 11 in the experimental group and 10 in the control group, were included. At T1, a similar reduction in pain and tendon stiffness was reported in both groups (NRS, experimental group:4.45±1.92 vs. control group:3.5±0.97), (SWE, experimental group: 31.44±7.8 vs. control group: 29.38±5.66). However, at T2, the experimental reported improved perceived-pain and stiffness scores compared to the control group (NRS, experimental group:2.27±0.9 vs. control group: 3.3±0.67; SWE, experimental group:24.27±5.15 vs. control group:28.1±3.75).

Conclusions: The main findings proved that a concurrent rehabilitative approach with proper physical agent modality (PAM) could provide significant results in acute LHBT with regards to pain, tendon stiffness and shoulder function. The experimental group, which synergistically received both conventional physical therapy and active cryo-ultrasound therapy, achieved similar results to the sham group at T1, but more significant improvements were observed in the active PAMs group at T2.

Introduction: The Apple Watch is increasingly used in rehabilitation to monitor physical activity, cardiovascular health, and other physiological parameters. This review evaluates its effectiveness and accuracy in various rehabilitation settings, examining its potential to enhance patient adherence and clinical outcomes.

Evidence acquisition: A comprehensive search was conducted across databases including MEDLINE, Cochrane Central, Scopus, PEDro, and Web of Science, alongside grey literature. Studies were included based on the PCC criteria (Population, Concept, Context), focusing on the use of the Apple Watch in rehabilitation programs. Bias risk was assessed using RoB 2 for RCTs and ROBINS-I for non-randomized studies.

Evidence synthesis: Five studies were reviewed. The Apple Watch showed potential in improving physical activity levels and functional outcomes, particularly when combined with behavioral interventions. It demonstrated effectiveness in detecting atrial fibrillation in large-scale screening but presented variability in heart rate and energy expenditure accuracy, especially during high-intensity activities. The studies highlighted that integrating cognitive support with the device enhances adherence and health outcomes. However, limitations in measurement accuracy and the need for hybrid monitoring approaches were noted.

Conclusions: The Apple Watch is a valuable tool in rehabilitation when used alongside behavioral support and validated clinical methods. Its effectiveness is enhanced when integrated into a multidisciplinary approach, but its limitations in accuracy necessitate further calibration and hybrid use with traditional tools. Future research should focus on long-term impacts and algorithm improvements to optimize its clinical utility in diverse rehabilitation contexts.

Background: The Body Oxygen Level Test (BOLT), also known as the control pause in the Buteyko method, is a breath-hold test proposed to reflect CO2 tolerance and breathing efficiency. Although popularized as a fitness indicator, its relationship to aerobic capacity and physical activity in healthy adults remains unclear. This study examined associations between BOLT score, maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), treadmill time to exhaustion (TTE), and weekly physical activity in active university students.

Methods: Twenty-eight healthy, physically active university students (15 men, 13 women; age 22.1±2.5 years) completed a graded treadmill test (Bruce protocol) with gas analysis to determine VO2max and TTE. BOLT was measured as comfortable breath-hold time after normal exhalation. Weekly physical activity was assessed using the Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire (GLTEQ). Spearman correlations examined associations between BOLT, VO2max, TTE, and GLTEQ. A multiple linear regression tested whether VO2max, TTE, age, height, weight, and GLTEQ predicted BOLT.

Results: BOLT times did not significantly differ between sexes. BOLT scores showed no strong correlation with VO2max (ρ=0.31, P=0.10), TTE (ρ=0.27, P=0.16), or GLTEQ (ρ=0.05, P=0.59). Regression analysis (R²=0.22, P=0.46) identified no significant predictors of BOLT.

Conclusions: In active young adults, the BOLT breath-hold test was not significantly associated with VO2max, endurance time, or self-reported exercise levels. These findings suggest that BOLT - a measure of breathing function and CO2 tolerance - does not serve as a surrogate indicator of aerobic capacity or habitual physical activity in this population. BOLT should be interpreted with caution if used for fitness assessment, as it appears to reflect a distinct aspect of physiological function not captured by standard aerobic performance tests.

Alcohol consumption represents the leading cause of death and disability under the age of 24. Among the most frequent physical problems there is certainly musculoskeletal damage. This creates problems in carrying out physical activity and sports. The aim of this narrative review is to assess the size of the problem of alcohol consumption and sport, the motivations and possible solutions. This narrative review is based on a detailed analysis of the scientific literature published before June 30^th, 2024 (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar). In sporting contexts there is a higher consumption of alcoholic beverages than in the general population. Alcohol is used during moments of socialization or during the celebration of some event or anniversary. Through sponsorship, alcohol is associated with success, beauty and even health. Alcohol consumption is not compatible with sporting activities. It reduces its positive effects and limits its quality. Moreover, alcohol induces muscle, bone and brain damage. Sports clubs have a duty to address the alcohol problem. It is mandatory, on the one hand, early identification of athletes who have risky alcohol consumption and on the other, promoting education initiatives on correct lifestyles with the involvement of the community to which they belong. It is also appropriate promote with force laws that prohibit the association of alcohol consumption to sport.

Background: This study examined the influence of two aerobic fitness indices (VO2max and [%4mM] i.e. the relative intensity [%VO2max] corresponding to a blood lactate concentration of 4 mmol·L^-1) on the recovery of power output during repeated sprinting.

Methods: Thirty female team players (age: 21.9 [2.9] y, body mass: 61.7 [5.4] kg, mean [standard deviation, SD]) took part in the study. VO2max and %4mM were assessed, and participants were divided into two groups in a cross-sectional design [well-trained (N.=15) or moderately trained (N.=15)] according to either VO2max (53.6 [3.4] vs. 47.6 [2.4] mL∙kg∙min^-1, P<0.001) or %4mM (86.7 [3.8] vs. 77.9 [4.1] %, P<0.001). Participants performed two 30 s sprints interspersed with 2 min of rest on a non-motorized treadmill. Blood samples were taken at rest, pre- and immediately post-sprinting for lactate, pH, ammonia, and plasma volume determination.

Results: When groups were separated according to %4mM, well-trained participants demonstrated superior recovery of peak and mean power output (PPO: 86.2 [10.3] vs. 74.5 [6.8] %, P<0.001; MPO30: 84.0 [7.8], vs. 77.1 [5.2] %, P<0.001), respectively]. When groups were separated according to VO2max, there were no differences in the recovery of PPO (82.8 [10.1] vs. 77.7 [10.5] %, P=0.188) and MPO30: (82.6 [6.5] vs. 78.9 [8.1] %, P=0.186). Blood metabolic responses were similar in all conditions (P=0.220-0.604).

Conclusions: The results suggest that %4mM is the most important aerobic fitness index for power output recovery during repeated sprint running.

Background: Body image refers to a person's perception of her/his own body. Currently, the media and most of the social settings place significance on having a thin body. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships between body image perception and satisfaction and some lifestyle-related factors such as weight status, sedentary habits and engagement in physical activity among sport athletes, gym practitioners and inactive individuals.

Methods: An observational study with a cross-sectional design was carried out. An electronic questionnaire was used to assess participants' characteristics and engagement in physical activity. Perception and satisfaction of body image were assessed using Stunkard's figures.

Results: One hundred-and-five (33.5%) of the participants were inactive, 107 were gym practitioners and 101 practiced different sport disciplines. The inactive group had a higher percentage of participants desiring to be thinner and a lower percentage desiring to be bigger, while the athlete group had a higher percentage expressing satisfaction with their current body image. Body satisfaction was found to be related with training volume.

Conclusions: This study highlights the significant associations between body image perception, satisfaction, and lifestyle factors such as physical activity levels and sedentary habits. Athletes reported greater body satisfaction compared to inactive individuals, emphasizing the potential role of regular physical activity in fostering a positive body image. These findings underscore the importance of promoting active lifestyles to improve both physical and psychological well-being.

Background: Despite growing interest in women's physiology in exercise sciences, the understanding of female athletes' energy metabolism remains limited. This study aimed to analyze substrate oxidation in response to energetic stimuli in female athletes using or not hormonal contraceptives, and to determine the influence of the estradiol-to-progesterone ratio fluctuations on energy metabolism.

Methods: Body composition (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry), energy expenditure and substrate oxidation rates (resting, low-intensity walking exercise (4 km/h), and postprandial conditions; indirect calorimetry) were assessed among 32 athletes (23±3 years) during a high-training load period, in athletes using or not hormonal contraceptives (nine and 23, respectively). Athletes not using hormonal contraceptives were tested during high and low estradiol-to-progesterone (salivary samples) ratio conditions.

Results: No significant differences in energy metabolism at rest, whether fasting or postprandial, were observed between groups. During low-intensity exercise, a significantly higher net energy cost was observed in athletes using hormonal contraceptives (vs. high [P=0.01] and low [P=0.02] estradiol-to-progesterone ratio conditions). Higher carbohydrate (P=0.001) and lower lipid (P=0.005) oxidation rates were observed in the low estradiol-to-progesterone ratio condition compared with the high one in women not using hormonal contraceptives.

Conclusions: Thus, endogenous and exogenous ovarian hormones may influence energy metabolism during low-intensity exercise in female athletes under high-training loads.

Background: Optimal athletic performance requires balancing training with adequate recovery and energy intake. Failure to do this can result in low energy availability (LEA). This study investigated the prevalence of LEA and burnout syndrome in an athletic population and explored potential relationships between these conditions.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, online surveys including two validated questionnaires (LEAF-Q and ABQ) and questions relating to LEA risk factors were distributed via email and social media. 139 females (39±13 years, 1.67±0.11 m, 68.0±17.8 kg, 24.4±6.4 kg/m² BMI) completed the survey. Participants were categorized as either at risk or not at risk of LEA based on their LEAF-Q scores.

Results: Eighty-nine female athletes (64%) were categorized as at risk of LEA. There was no significant relationship between LEAF-Q and ABQ scores, nor significant difference between athletes categorized as at risk and not at risk of LEA in sleep, dietary habits, perceived pressure to perform, and training history.

Conclusions: Risk of LEA was widespread in this heterogeneous female athletic population. There were no relationships between LEA and burnout, suggesting that despite overlapping symptoms, pathways are independent, or these questionnaires measure different parameters. Understanding the distinction between burnout and LEA is critical, and properly diagnosing the specific condition is key to effective management. This will ensure that interventions are appropriately tailored to address the correct issues, thereby optimizing recovery and performance.

Background: To investigate the effectiveness of the application of deep heat cream (DH) on the skin prior to aerobic exercise.

Methods: A total of 15 healthy male participants (age: 24.40±2.26 years, height: 1.70±0.08 m, weight: 64.73±8.66 kg, Body Mass Index: 22.28±1.94 kg/m^-2, maximal oxygen consumption [VO2max]: 30.11±6.41 mL/kg^-1/min^-1) volunteered for this study. Participants were required to attend three sessions 1) cycling VO2max test conducted to determine their 80% VO2max; 2, 3) cycling at 80% of VO2peak workload till exhaustion with either treatment application of DH or placebo cream (PC) on lower extremities of body. Time-to-exhaustion (TTE), heart rate (HR) and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) were recorded throughout the study.

Results: Results indicated significant differences between treatments for TTE (DH: 487.00±143.68 s vs. PC: 403.80±123.66 s, P=0.02); average RPE (DH: 15.82±1.82 vs. PC: 14.31±1.39, P=0.01). There were positive significant correlations between treatments for average HR (DH: 163.76±13.55 beats·min^-1 vs. PC: 158.42±31.76 beats·min^-1, r=0.58, P=0.02); last stage HR (DH: 176.87±15.29 beats·min^-1 vs. PC: 174.93±16.67 beats·min^-1, r=0.80, P=0.00).

Conclusions: Deep heat application before exercise has shown to significantly improve endurance performance. Athletes or sports enthusiasts may consider using deep heat before exercise to achieve optimal endurance performance. More studies are needed to explore the benefits of deep heat application during exercise performance.

Sports injuries are a significant concern for athletes at all levels of competition, ranging from acute traumas to chronic conditions. Prompt diagnosis and effective treatment are crucial for an athlete's recovery and quality of life. Traditionally, sports injury diagnosis has relied on clinical assessments, patient history, and basic imaging techniques such as X-rays, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, recent technological advancements have revolutionized the field of sports medicine, offering more accurate diagnoses and targeted treatment strategies. High-resolution MRI and CT scans provide detailed images of deep tissue injuries, while advanced ultrasound technology enables on-field diagnostics. Wearable sensor devices and machine learning algorithms allow real-time monitoring of an athlete's movements and physical loads, facilitating early intervention and injury risk prediction. Regenerative medicine, including stem cell therapy and tissue engineering, has emerged as a transformative approach to healing damaged tissues and reducing treatment time. Despite the challenges of high costs, lack of skilled personnel, and ethical considerations, the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning into sports medicine holds immense potential for revolutionizing injury prevention and management. As these advancements continue to evolve, they are expected to extend athletes' careers and enhance their overall quality of life. This review summarizes conventional methods to diagnose and manage injuries and provides insights into the recent advancements in the field of sports science and medicine. It also states future outlook on the diagnosis and treatment of sports injuries.