Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100127
Mark L. Watsford , Adam T. Trama , Yael J. Grasko , Suzie E. Rhydderch , Milo-Arne L. Wilkinson , Simon P. Eggleton , Tom M. Cross
Coaching professional sport is stressful, yet there is little information detailing the physiological and psychological responses of coaches during match-play. This case report examined physiological and psychological alterations when coaching professional Australian Rules football. One experienced head coach was monitored for heart rate, stress-related hormones and psychological stress before, during and after seven matches. Heart rate fluctuated during match-play, with locomotion during match breaks contributing to elevated values. Stress hormones did not change, while the psychological questionnaire revealed differences in perceptions of accomplishment, success, recovery and stress related to match outcome. This case report indicated substantial elevations in heart rate while coaching professional football and furthermore, differences in psychological outcomes from winning or losing suggests the need to develop contextualised recovery and coping strategies. With coaching eliciting alterations to physical and psychological markers in this case, confirmatory research with larger cohorts should examine cardiovascular health and well-being strategies in coaches.
{"title":"Physiological and psychological responses to coaching: An exploratory case report from professional Australian rules football","authors":"Mark L. Watsford , Adam T. Trama , Yael J. Grasko , Suzie E. Rhydderch , Milo-Arne L. Wilkinson , Simon P. Eggleton , Tom M. Cross","doi":"10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100127","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100127","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Coaching professional sport is stressful, yet there is little information detailing the physiological and psychological responses of coaches during match-play. This case report examined physiological and psychological alterations when coaching professional Australian Rules football. One experienced head coach was monitored for heart rate, stress-related hormones and psychological stress before, during and after seven matches. Heart rate fluctuated during match-play, with locomotion during match breaks contributing to elevated values. Stress hormones did not change, while the psychological questionnaire revealed differences in perceptions of accomplishment, success, recovery and stress related to match outcome. This case report indicated substantial elevations in heart rate while coaching professional football and furthermore, differences in psychological outcomes from winning or losing suggests the need to develop contextualised recovery and coping strategies. With coaching eliciting alterations to physical and psychological markers in this case, confirmatory research with larger cohorts should examine cardiovascular health and well-being strategies in coaches.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":74029,"journal":{"name":"JSAMS plus","volume":"6 ","pages":"Article 100127"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145683705","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100121
Suzi Edwards , Andrew J. Gardner , Kenneth L. Quarrie , Timana Tahu , Gordon W. Fuller , Gary Strangman , Grant L. Iverson , Ross Tucker
Background
It is not well understood how tackling technique influences the inertial head kinematics of a tackler or ball carrier. This study identified the modifiable components of the tackler's technique (including instantaneous speed at contact) that predicted inertial head kinematics of a male tackler and ball carrier during a front-on, one-on-one, ‘slow speed’ rugby tackle.
Methods
Three-dimensional motion capture recorded 455 torso tackles across 15 rugby players. Principal component analysis identified four significant tackle related variables: ‘flexed head-kyphotic posture’; ‘body height lowering strategy’; ‘instantaneous speed at contact—ball carrier’; ‘instantaneous speed at contact—tackler’.
Results
The ball carrier's instantaneous speed at contact, not the tackler, predicts inertial head kinematics of the tackler's and ball carrier's inertial head kinematics (p < 0.05). Tacklers that adopt a more ‘flexed head-kyphotic posture’ (i.e., they were looking downwards towards the ground, adopted a kyphotic posture), resulted in higher inertial head kinematics for the tackler but lower inertial head kinematics for the ball carrier (p < 0.001). A tackler with a ‘body height lowering strategy’ resulted in higher inertial head kinematics for both players (p < 0.001) by tilting their pelvis forward to primarily flex their hips, and adopting an upright trunk posture with a neutral lordotic posture.
Conclusion
To reduce the tackler's peak inertial head kinematics, the tackler could adopt a tackle strategy that looks upwards (i.e., not looking to the ground) and adopts partially bent-at-waist (i.e., is not upright) and avoids a kyphotic posture or tilting their pelvis forward to primarily flex their hips to lower their body height.
{"title":"Head impact forces in rugby tackles are influenced by tackler position and the ball carrier instantaneous speed at contact in front-on, one-on-one tackle scenarios","authors":"Suzi Edwards , Andrew J. Gardner , Kenneth L. Quarrie , Timana Tahu , Gordon W. Fuller , Gary Strangman , Grant L. Iverson , Ross Tucker","doi":"10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100121","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100121","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>It is not well understood how tackling technique influences the inertial head kinematics of a tackler or ball carrier. This study identified the modifiable components of the tackler's technique (including instantaneous speed at contact) that predicted inertial head kinematics of a male tackler and ball carrier during a front-on, one-on-one, ‘slow speed’ rugby tackle.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Three-dimensional motion capture recorded 455 torso tackles across 15 rugby players. Principal component analysis identified four significant tackle related variables: <em>‘flexed head-kyphotic posture’</em>; <em>‘body height lowering strategy’</em>; ‘<em>instantaneous speed at contact—ball carrier</em>’; ‘<em>instantaneous speed at contact—tackler</em>’.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The ball carrier's instantaneous speed at contact, not the tackler, predicts inertial head kinematics of the tackler's and ball carrier's inertial head kinematics (p < 0.05). Tacklers that adopt a more <em>‘flexed head-kyphotic posture’</em> (i.e., they were looking downwards towards the ground, adopted a kyphotic posture), resulted in higher inertial head kinematics for the tackler but lower inertial head kinematics for the ball carrier (p < 0.001). A tackler with a <em>‘body height lowering strategy’</em> resulted in higher inertial head kinematics for both players (p < 0.001) by tilting their pelvis forward to primarily flex their hips, and adopting an upright trunk posture with a neutral lordotic posture.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>To reduce the tackler's peak inertial head kinematics, the tackler could adopt a tackle strategy that looks upwards (i.e., not looking to the ground) and adopts partially bent-at-waist (i.e., is not upright) and avoids a kyphotic posture or tilting their pelvis forward to primarily flex their hips to lower their body height.</div></div><div><h3>Clinical trial registration</h3><div>This is not a clinical trial.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":74029,"journal":{"name":"JSAMS plus","volume":"6 ","pages":"Article 100121"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145624125","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
To assess intervention reporting quality in randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing aerobic exercise with control interventions following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI).
Methods
Five databases were systematically searched for RCTs that compared the effect of aerobic exercise interventions with no intervention or another control, on symptom severity or recovery, in adolescents or adults with mTBI. Two reviewers independently screened articles, extracted data, and rated reporting quality using the TIDieR-Rehab checklist. Reporting completeness was quantified by intervention group and TIDieR-Rehab item. Authors were contacted to determine if reporting could be improved.
Results
Within 13 included studies, overall reporting was moderate (62 % of TIDieR-Rehab items complete). Dosage items ‘Frequency’ (85 %) and ‘Intervention length’ (96 %) were well reported, whereas ‘Session duration’, ‘Essential elements amount’, ‘How challenging’, and ‘Regression/Progression’ were moderately reported (54 %–65 % complete). Personalisation and protocol deviations were poorly reported (12 %–23 %). On average, authors supplied 71 % of missing intervention details on request.
Conclusions
The TIDieR-Rehab checklist revealed critical reporting gaps. Incomplete reporting of aerobic exercise parameters hinders clinical translation and limits investigation of optimal dosage parameters and underlying mechanisms. Poor reporting of personalisation and protocol deviations may mask necessary adaptations for individuals with mTBI. To improve reporting in this field, it is recommended that researchers utilise the TIDieR-Rehab checklist when planning and reporting their studies.
{"title":"Highlighting gaps in the reporting of aerobic exercise interventions for mild traumatic brain injury: A systematic review using the TIDieR-Rehab checklist","authors":"Isaac Tracey, Emeline Gomes, Nada Signal, Gemma Alder, Katherine Forch, Sharon Olsen","doi":"10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100120","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100120","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To assess intervention reporting quality in randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing aerobic exercise with control interventions following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI).</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Five databases were systematically searched for RCTs that compared the effect of aerobic exercise interventions with no intervention or another control, on symptom severity or recovery, in adolescents or adults with mTBI. Two reviewers independently screened articles, extracted data, and rated reporting quality using the TIDieR-Rehab checklist. Reporting completeness was quantified by intervention group and TIDieR-Rehab item. Authors were contacted to determine if reporting could be improved.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Within 13 included studies, overall reporting was moderate (62 % of TIDieR-Rehab items complete). Dosage items ‘Frequency’ (85 %) and ‘Intervention length’ (96 %) were well reported, whereas ‘Session duration’, ‘Essential elements amount’, ‘How challenging’, and ‘Regression/Progression’ were moderately reported (54 %–65 % complete). Personalisation and protocol deviations were poorly reported (12 %–23 %). On average, authors supplied 71 % of missing intervention details on request.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The TIDieR-Rehab checklist revealed critical reporting gaps. Incomplete reporting of aerobic exercise parameters hinders clinical translation and limits investigation of optimal dosage parameters and underlying mechanisms. Poor reporting of personalisation and protocol deviations may mask necessary adaptations for individuals with mTBI. To improve reporting in this field, it is recommended that researchers utilise the TIDieR-Rehab checklist when planning and reporting their studies.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":74029,"journal":{"name":"JSAMS plus","volume":"6 ","pages":"Article 100120"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145465149","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-31DOI: 10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100119
John W. Orchard , Isabel S. Moore , Federico Genovesi , Molly McCarthy-Ryan , Daniel Martinez , Ebonie Rio , Kay Crossley , Jessica J. Orchard , Ben Clarsen , Margo Mountjoy
Background
The Orchard Sports Injury and Illness Classification System (OSIICS) requires regular update to; stay relevant to changes required for optimal code recording; to add additional language translations as they become available and add female-specific codes to reflect contemporary clinical diagnosis and the increase in women's sport participation.
Methods
Codes were added to the existing version 15 after the assembly of an ad hoc panel of co-authors. Being a revision that only added codes without changing any structure, informal methodology, primarily conducted by email discussion amongst the author group, was used to resolve issues. Two authors who were native Italian and Spanish speakers, and fluent in English were used to create the respective language translations.
Results
The area of greatest deficiency for OSIICS versions 13–15 was in coding for breast conditions. To fit in with the existing consensus categories, the injury format used was CxBxx with a third character B to signify breast within the chest region. For breast illness/medical disorders, the coding format was MxxBx
Conclusion
Although consideration was given to creating a new, standalone category for breast injuries, due to the formalised alignment between OSIICS and Sports Medicine Diagnostic Coding System it was decided such a change requires the IOC consensus panel to re-convene. Additionally, the medical/illness categories need consideration of whether breast disorders best fit in the endocrine or genitourinary system, or if an expanded medical category is needed for female reproductive medical conditions.
{"title":"Orchard Sports Injury and Illness Classification System (OSIICS) version 16: Updated female athlete codes and Italian and Spanish translations","authors":"John W. Orchard , Isabel S. Moore , Federico Genovesi , Molly McCarthy-Ryan , Daniel Martinez , Ebonie Rio , Kay Crossley , Jessica J. Orchard , Ben Clarsen , Margo Mountjoy","doi":"10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100119","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100119","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>The Orchard Sports Injury and Illness Classification System (OSIICS) requires regular update to; stay relevant to changes required for optimal code recording; to add additional language translations as they become available and add female-specific codes to reflect contemporary clinical diagnosis and the increase in women's sport participation.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Codes were added to the existing version 15 after the assembly of an ad hoc panel of co-authors. Being a revision that only added codes without changing any structure, informal methodology, primarily conducted by email discussion amongst the author group, was used to resolve issues. Two authors who were native Italian and Spanish speakers, and fluent in English were used to create the respective language translations.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The area of greatest deficiency for OSIICS versions 13–15 was in coding for breast conditions. To fit in with the existing consensus categories, the injury format used was CxBxx with a third character B to signify breast within the chest region. For breast illness/medical disorders, the coding format was MxxBx</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Although consideration was given to creating a new, standalone category for breast injuries, due to the formalised alignment between OSIICS and Sports Medicine Diagnostic Coding System it was decided such a change requires the IOC consensus panel to re-convene. Additionally, the medical/illness categories need consideration of whether breast disorders best fit in the endocrine or genitourinary system, or if an expanded medical category is needed for female reproductive medical conditions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":74029,"journal":{"name":"JSAMS plus","volume":"6 ","pages":"Article 100119"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-10-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145415736","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-22DOI: 10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100118
Michael Pengelly , Kate Pumpa , David B. Pyne , Naroa Etxebarria
Background
Iron deficiency (ID) is common in female athletes, with variable diagnostic criteria and supplementation protocols used to determine deficient athletes. Understanding iron rich food sources is fundamental to optimal nutrition intake. Purpose: Our aim was to characterise the iron knowledge of female athletes and affiliated staff and explore factors influencing iron deficiency practices among dietitians and iron experts (sports physiologists and iron researchers).
Methods
A cross-sectional design was employed using a web-based iron questionnaire (adapted from previously validated questionnaires). Part One consisted of 16 items (11 iron questions) and was completed by female athletes and staff. Participants achieving a score >75 % (percentage of correct answers) were deemed to have adequate iron knowledge. Part Two consisted of 22 items (14 on iron deficiency practice) and was completed by dietitians and iron experts. Descriptive statistics were used for multiple choice questions and open responses were coded thematically.
Results
Sixty-two participants (athletes n = 42; staff n = 20) across 10 sports completed Part One. Iron knowledge scores ranged from 21 % to 88 % among athletes (46 % ± 13 %) and staff (60 % ± 16 %). Twenty-eight practitioners (sports dietitians: n = 14; other professions: n = 14) across 28 sports completed Part Two. Between 10 % and 56 % of practitioners applied established criteria for diagnosing iron deficiency. Supplementation protocols varied between 20 and 100 mg/day or bi-daily of elemental iron for earlier stages of iron deficiency increasing to 60–200 mg/day or bi-daily for anaemic athletes.
Conclusion
Iron knowledge is highly variable in female athletes and club staff. Teams and organisations should promote valid nutrition resources when access to a sports dietitian is not feasible. Practitioners may adopt heightened criteria to categorise iron deficiency but should adjust individual thresholds based on factors underpinning fluctuations in iron status.
{"title":"The Athlete-IQ: Evaluating iron knowledge of female athletes and staff; with insights into practices among dietitians and iron experts","authors":"Michael Pengelly , Kate Pumpa , David B. Pyne , Naroa Etxebarria","doi":"10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100118","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100118","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Iron deficiency (ID) is common in female athletes, with variable diagnostic criteria and supplementation protocols used to determine deficient athletes. Understanding iron rich food sources is fundamental to optimal nutrition intake. Purpose: Our aim was to characterise the iron knowledge of female athletes and affiliated staff and explore factors influencing iron deficiency practices among dietitians and iron experts (sports physiologists and iron researchers).</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A cross-sectional design was employed using a web-based iron questionnaire (adapted from previously validated questionnaires). Part One consisted of 16 items (11 iron questions) and was completed by female athletes and staff. Participants achieving a score >75 % (percentage of correct answers) were deemed to have adequate iron knowledge. Part Two consisted of 22 items (14 on iron deficiency practice) and was completed by dietitians and iron experts. Descriptive statistics were used for multiple choice questions and open responses were coded thematically.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Sixty-two participants (athletes n = 42; staff n = 20) across 10 sports completed Part One. Iron knowledge scores ranged from 21 % to 88 % among athletes (46 % ± 13 %) and staff (60 % ± 16 %). Twenty-eight practitioners (sports dietitians: n = 14; other professions: n = 14) across 28 sports completed Part Two. Between 10 % and 56 % of practitioners applied established criteria for diagnosing iron deficiency. Supplementation protocols varied between 20 and 100 mg/day or bi-daily of elemental iron for earlier stages of iron deficiency increasing to 60–200 mg/day or bi-daily for anaemic athletes.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Iron knowledge is highly variable in female athletes and club staff. Teams and organisations should promote valid nutrition resources when access to a sports dietitian is not feasible. Practitioners may adopt heightened criteria to categorise iron deficiency but should adjust individual thresholds based on factors underpinning fluctuations in iron status.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":74029,"journal":{"name":"JSAMS plus","volume":"6 ","pages":"Article 100118"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-10-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145361053","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Children and adolescents with disability (CAWD) face many barriers to sport participation and report lower levels of physical activity compared with children and adolescents without disability. Multi-sport activity days (MSADs) could address several barriers to sport participation faced by CAWD. This study examined the experiences of CAWD at MSADs, including both facilitators and barriers to participation that these children and adolescents faced.
Methods
This study was a mixed-methods evaluation of MSADs in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. This included surveys of the parents/carers of CAWD who attended a MSAD and interviews with CAWD who attended a MSAD. The survey assessed facilitators and barriers to participation, and the interviews explored CAWD's experiences at MSADs.
Results
The 15 MSADs held across NSW reached a total of 1839 CAWD. Of these, 86 (5 %) parents/carers completed a survey, and 6 CAWD participated in an interview. The interviews revealed that CAWD who attended the MSADs reported positive experiences, highlighting social connections, a sense of commonality and belonging, increased self-esteem, confidence, skills development, and a sense of joy (interview data). Common barriers to sport participation included cost (32 %), not knowing where to play (28 %), lack of appropriate sporting competitions (28 %), lack of interest (28 %), and not knowing how to play (26 %) (survey data).
Conclusions
MSADs can provide positive sport experiences and overcome some barriers to participation for CAWD. However, ongoing support and accessible participation pathways are required to translate initial engagement into sustained involvement in sport.
{"title":"Mixed-methods evaluation of multi-sport activity days for children and adolescents with disability in Australia","authors":"Nicole Halim , Indigo Willing , Rochelle Eime , Leanne Hassett , Katherine B. Owen","doi":"10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100116","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100116","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Children and adolescents with disability (CAWD) face many barriers to sport participation and report lower levels of physical activity compared with children and adolescents without disability. Multi-sport activity days (MSADs) could address several barriers to sport participation faced by CAWD. This study examined the experiences of CAWD at MSADs, including both facilitators and barriers to participation that these children and adolescents faced.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This study was a mixed-methods evaluation of MSADs in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. This included surveys of the parents/carers of CAWD who attended a MSAD and interviews with CAWD who attended a MSAD. The survey assessed facilitators and barriers to participation, and the interviews explored CAWD's experiences at MSADs.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The 15 MSADs held across NSW reached a total of 1839 CAWD. Of these, 86 (5 %) parents/carers completed a survey, and 6 CAWD participated in an interview. The interviews revealed that CAWD who attended the MSADs reported positive experiences, highlighting social connections, a sense of commonality and belonging, increased self-esteem, confidence, skills development, and a sense of joy (interview data). Common barriers to sport participation included cost (32 %), not knowing where to play (28 %), lack of appropriate sporting competitions (28 %), lack of interest (28 %), and not knowing how to play (26 %) (survey data).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>MSADs can provide positive sport experiences and overcome some barriers to participation for CAWD. However, ongoing support and accessible participation pathways are required to translate initial engagement into sustained involvement in sport.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":74029,"journal":{"name":"JSAMS plus","volume":"6 ","pages":"Article 100116"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144925038","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-29DOI: 10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100117
Molly E. Coventry , Christopher Latella , Brady Green , Andrea B. Mosler , Jayden Peak , Maria Luciana Perez Armendariz , Ebonie K. Rio , Myles C. Murphy
Background
Voluntary activation is a measure of neural drive, typically measured during maximal contractions, and provides insight into motor function. This systematic review examined voluntary activation assessment of the ankle plantar flexors in healthy and pathological populations, and the association of participant age and positioning (knee and ankle joint angles) with voluntary activation level.
Methods
A systematic review and meta-analyses were conducted. Six electronic databases were systematically searched for studies that assessed voluntary activation of the ankle plantar flexors using the interpolated twitch technique or the central activation ratio. Meta-analyses were performed using an inverse variance, random-effects maximal likelihood model of continuous outcomes within SPSS Statistics, and subsequent meta-regression performed for age, knee angle and ankle angle. Methodological quality was assessed using the Analytical Cross-Sectional Studies Checklist from the Joanna Briggs Institute.
Results
A total of 74 studies were included, 5 included participants with pathological conditions (2 Achilles tendinopathy and 3 stroke) and 69 included only healthy participants. The meta-analysis demonstrated plantar flexion voluntary activation levels for healthy populations of 91 %, 90 % for Achilles tendinopathy and 35 % for stroke. Older age was associated with lower voluntary activation (β = −0.072; p = 0.035) and greater knee flexion angle was associated with higher voluntary activation (β = −0.033; p = 0.045). No association of voluntary activation and ankle position was demonstrated (β = −0.070, p = 0.488). Majority of the included studies were judged to have low methodological quality (97 %).
Conclusions
Voluntary activation was comparable between healthy participants and Achilles tendinopathy, and significantly lower in people following stroke. Age and knee joint position but not ankle joint position was associated with the level of plantar flexor voluntary activation.
自愿激活是一种神经驱动的测量，通常在最大收缩时测量，并提供对运动功能的洞察。本系统综述检查了健康和病理人群踝关节底屈肌的自主激活评估，以及参与者年龄和体位（膝关节和踝关节角度）与自主激活水平的关系。方法进行系统评价和荟萃分析。系统地检索了六个电子数据库，以评估使用内插抽动技术或中枢激活比的踝关节足底屈肌的自主激活。meta分析采用SPSS统计中连续结果的逆方差、随机效应最大似然模型进行，随后对年龄、膝关节角度和踝关节角度进行meta回归。方法质量采用乔安娜布里格斯研究所的分析横断面研究检查表进行评估。结果共纳入74项研究，5项研究纳入病理状态（2例跟腱病和3例卒中），69项研究仅纳入健康受试者。荟萃分析显示，健康人群的足底屈曲自发激活水平为91%，跟腱病患者为90%，中风患者为35%。年龄越大，自愿性活动越低（β = - 0.072; p = 0.035），膝关节屈曲角度越大，自愿性活动越高（β = - 0.033; p = 0.045）。自主活动与踝关节位置无关联（β = - 0.070, p = 0.488）。大多数纳入的研究被认为方法学质量较低（97%）。结论：自愿激活在健康参与者和跟腱病患者之间具有可比性，而在中风患者中明显较低。年龄和膝关节位置与足底屈肌自主激活水平相关，但踝关节位置与足底屈肌自主激活水平无关。
{"title":"Voluntary activation of the ankle plantar flexors: A systematic review and meta-analysis","authors":"Molly E. Coventry , Christopher Latella , Brady Green , Andrea B. Mosler , Jayden Peak , Maria Luciana Perez Armendariz , Ebonie K. Rio , Myles C. Murphy","doi":"10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100117","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100117","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Voluntary activation is a measure of neural drive, typically measured during maximal contractions, and provides insight into motor function. This systematic review examined voluntary activation assessment of the ankle plantar flexors in healthy and pathological populations, and the association of participant age and positioning (knee and ankle joint angles) with voluntary activation level.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A systematic review and meta-analyses were conducted. Six electronic databases were systematically searched for studies that assessed voluntary activation of the ankle plantar flexors using the interpolated twitch technique or the central activation ratio. Meta-analyses were performed using an inverse variance, random-effects maximal likelihood model of continuous outcomes within SPSS Statistics, and subsequent meta-regression performed for age, knee angle and ankle angle. Methodological quality was assessed using the Analytical Cross-Sectional Studies Checklist from the Joanna Briggs Institute.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>A total of 74 studies were included, 5 included participants with pathological conditions (2 Achilles tendinopathy and 3 stroke) and 69 included only healthy participants. The meta-analysis demonstrated plantar flexion voluntary activation levels for healthy populations of 91 %, 90 % for Achilles tendinopathy and 35 % for stroke. Older age was associated with lower voluntary activation (β = −0.072; p = 0.035) and greater knee flexion angle was associated with higher voluntary activation (β = −0.033; p = 0.045). No association of voluntary activation and ankle position was demonstrated (β = −0.070, p = 0.488). Majority of the included studies were judged to have low methodological quality (97 %).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Voluntary activation was comparable between healthy participants and Achilles tendinopathy, and significantly lower in people following stroke. Age and knee joint position but not ankle joint position was associated with the level of plantar flexor voluntary activation.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":74029,"journal":{"name":"JSAMS plus","volume":"6 ","pages":"Article 100117"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-08-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144914049","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-19DOI: 10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100114
Gaela Kilgour , Ngaire Susan Stott , Michael Steele , Brooke Adair , Amy Hogan , Christine Imms
Background
Participation-focused physical activity (PA) interventions are increasing in rehabilitation but can be difficult to replicate if the components of what is delivered and what is received are not clearly described. This study evaluated the implementation of a participation-focused PA intervention by mapping programme content and participant experiences to the theoretical framework: Family of Participation Related Constructs (fPRC).
Methods
A descriptive process evaluation, embedded in a single-case experimental design study, explored the extent to which the intervention (‘Run Club’) achieved the goal of being participation-focused, by exploring what was designed, delivered and received through each intervention phase: before, after, and 9-months following a twice weekly 12-week intervention. The programme was designed to provide both participation and activity-level intervention elements. The programme elements and experiences of participating adolescents with cerebral palsy and their parents were mapped to the fPRC constructs and transactional elements.
Results
Eight adolescents and 12 parents participated. Mapping of the ‘intervention delivered’ indicated that the 24 1-hour sessions of expert coaching in community settings, with family support, and promotion of attendance and involvement at all study phases were designed and delivered as intended. Experiences of ‘programme received’ were mapped across all fPRC constructs and transactions, providing examples of the transactional influences among the person-level constructs (activity competence, sense of self, preferences), the environment and the individuals' attendance and involvement, in the programme and beyond.
Conclusions
The findings demonstrated how a participation-focused intervention approach can be designed and evaluated using the fPRC.
{"title":"A qualitative exploration of the implementation of a participation-focused physical activity intervention according to the family of participation related constructs framework","authors":"Gaela Kilgour , Ngaire Susan Stott , Michael Steele , Brooke Adair , Amy Hogan , Christine Imms","doi":"10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100114","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100114","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Participation-focused physical activity (PA) interventions are increasing in rehabilitation but can be difficult to replicate if the components of what is delivered and what is received are not clearly described. This study evaluated the implementation of a participation-focused PA intervention by mapping programme content and participant experiences to the theoretical framework: Family of Participation Related Constructs (fPRC).</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A descriptive process evaluation, embedded in a single-case experimental design study, explored the extent to which the intervention (‘Run Club’) achieved the goal of being participation-focused, by exploring what was designed, delivered and received through each intervention phase: before, after, and 9-months following a twice weekly 12-week intervention. The programme was designed to provide both participation and activity-level intervention elements. The programme elements and experiences of participating adolescents with cerebral palsy and their parents were mapped to the fPRC constructs and transactional elements.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Eight adolescents and 12 parents participated. Mapping of the ‘intervention delivered’ indicated that the 24 1-hour sessions of expert coaching in community settings, with family support, and promotion of attendance and involvement at all study phases were designed and delivered as intended. Experiences of ‘programme received’ were mapped across all fPRC constructs and transactions, providing examples of the transactional influences among the person-level constructs (activity competence, sense of self, preferences), the environment and the individuals' attendance and involvement, in the programme and beyond.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The findings demonstrated how a participation-focused intervention approach can be designed and evaluated using the fPRC.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":74029,"journal":{"name":"JSAMS plus","volume":"6 ","pages":"Article 100114"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-08-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144866126","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-11DOI: 10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100115
Molly F. McCarthy-Ryan , Stephen D. Mellalieu , Holly S.R. Jones , Adam Bruton , Isabel S. Moore
The return-to-play process is multifactorial, requiring input from multiple disciplines for rehabilitation. This pilot study used a prospective interdisciplinary approach to assess male professional Rugby Union players' (n = 7) rehabilitation following a non-contact lower-limb injury. Kinetic and self-efficacy assessments were conducted across three rehabilitation phases (acute, middle, late). Biomechanical changes (p < 0.05) were observed across all phases; alongside self-efficacy increases. Moderate-to-strong positive relationships (r = 0.77–0.80) were found between kinetic and self-efficacy changes. Practitioners should incorporate both measures throughout rehabilitation, as each offers distinct insights into recovery despite their high correlation. An interdisciplinary approach ensures a comprehensive assessment, enhancing players’ rehabilitation outcomes.
{"title":"Evaluation of a prospective interdisciplinary assessment of return to play in male professional rugby union following lower-limb injury: A pilot study","authors":"Molly F. McCarthy-Ryan , Stephen D. Mellalieu , Holly S.R. Jones , Adam Bruton , Isabel S. Moore","doi":"10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100115","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100115","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The return-to-play process is multifactorial, requiring input from multiple disciplines for rehabilitation. This pilot study used a prospective interdisciplinary approach to assess male professional Rugby Union players' (n = 7) rehabilitation following a non-contact lower-limb injury. Kinetic and self-efficacy assessments were conducted across three rehabilitation phases (acute, middle, late). Biomechanical changes (p < 0.05) were observed across all phases; alongside self-efficacy increases. Moderate-to-strong positive relationships (r = 0.77–0.80) were found between kinetic and self-efficacy changes. Practitioners should incorporate both measures throughout rehabilitation, as each offers distinct insights into recovery despite their high correlation. An interdisciplinary approach ensures a comprehensive assessment, enhancing players’ rehabilitation outcomes.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":74029,"journal":{"name":"JSAMS plus","volume":"6 ","pages":"Article 100115"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-08-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144810378","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-07-24DOI: 10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100112
Thomas A. Naylor
Background
Overuse injuries and stress fractures are common in figure skating. Risk reduction strategies based on the current available evidence may not be fully utilised by senior elite skaters in the UK. This study aimed to establish the training practices of this cohort and identify areas for improvement.
Methods
An anonymous survey with 34 questions was distributed to all athletes from the senior British National Figure Skating Championships in the UK (n = 28) detailing training practices, injury prevention strategies, nutritional habits, and injury history and knowledge. Comparisons were made against recommended best practices from available literature with analyses for injury prevalence and gender or discipline (Fisher's exact test).
Results
Responses from 16 athletes demonstrated previous major injury (4 weeks away from training) in 81 %, and 13 % had sustained stress fractures. High uptake in the use of rest days (100 %) and strength and conditioning training (94 %) was demonstrated. No skaters regularly monitored jump loads. Dietary monitoring was performed by 31 % of respondents, with 44 % of skaters reporting previous nutritional deficiency diagnosis. All skaters (100 %) desired better injury prevention education.
Conclusion
Load monitoring, including jump counts, dietary tracking, and provision of accessible educational resources for skaters and coaches are areas of potential improvement in practice and future research. Screening for vitamin D and iron deficiency may be of benefit in this population.
{"title":"Identifying training factors for injury risk reduction in UK elite figure skaters – A pilot study","authors":"Thomas A. Naylor","doi":"10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100112","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100112","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Overuse injuries and stress fractures are common in figure skating. Risk reduction strategies based on the current available evidence may not be fully utilised by senior elite skaters in the UK. This study aimed to establish the training practices of this cohort and identify areas for improvement.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>An anonymous survey with 34 questions was distributed to all athletes from the senior British National Figure Skating Championships in the UK (<em>n</em> = 28) detailing training practices, injury prevention strategies, nutritional habits, and injury history and knowledge. Comparisons were made against recommended best practices from available literature with analyses for injury prevalence and gender or discipline (Fisher's exact test).</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Responses from 16 athletes demonstrated previous major injury (4 weeks away from training) in 81 %, and 13 % had sustained stress fractures. High uptake in the use of rest days (100 %) and strength and conditioning training (94 %) was demonstrated. No skaters regularly monitored jump loads. Dietary monitoring was performed by 31 % of respondents, with 44 % of skaters reporting previous nutritional deficiency diagnosis. All skaters (100 %) desired better injury prevention education.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Load monitoring, including jump counts, dietary tracking, and provision of accessible educational resources for skaters and coaches are areas of potential improvement in practice and future research. Screening for vitamin D and iron deficiency may be of benefit in this population.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":74029,"journal":{"name":"JSAMS plus","volume":"6 ","pages":"Article 100112"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144696878","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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