Research

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16 pages, 3399 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Performance Evaluation of an Immersive Virtual Reality Application for Rehabilitation after Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

by Arianna Carnevale, Ilaria Mannocchi, Emiliano Schena, Marco Carli, Mohamed Saifeddine Hadj Sassi, Martina Marino and Umile Giuseppe Longo

Bioengineering 2023, 10(11), 1305; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering10111305 - 10 Nov 2023

Viewed by 873

Abstract

Few studies have evaluated the effectiveness of shoulder rehabilitation in virtual environments. The objective of this study was to investigate the performance of a custom virtual reality application (VR app) with a stereophotogrammetric system considered the gold standard. A custom VR app was [...] Read more.

Few studies have evaluated the effectiveness of shoulder rehabilitation in virtual environments. The objective of this study was to investigate the performance of a custom virtual reality application (VR app) with a stereophotogrammetric system considered the gold standard. A custom VR app was designed considering the recommended rehabilitation exercises following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Following the setting of the play space, the user’s arm length, and height, five healthy volunteers performed four levels of rehabilitative exercises. Results for the first and second rounds of flexion and abduction displayed low total mean absolute error values and low numbers of unmet conditions. In internal and external rotation, the number of times conditions were not met was slightly higher; this was attributed to a lack of isolated shoulder movement. Data is promising, and volunteers were able to reach goal conditions more often than not. Despite positive results, more literature comparing VR applications with gold-standard clinical parameters is necessary. Nevertheless, results contribute to a body of literature that continues to encourage the application of VR to shoulder rehabilitation programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanics, Health, Disease and Rehabilitation)

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12 pages, 1955 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multicomponent Velocity Measurement for Linear Sprinting: Usain Bolt’s 100 m World-Record Analysis

by Stanislav Štuhec, Peter Planjšek, Milan Čoh and Krzysztof Mackala

Bioengineering 2023, 10(11), 1254; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering10111254 - 26 Oct 2023

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Abstract

The purpose of this report is to provide additional analysis and commentary on the men’s 100 m world record of 9.58 s, set by Usain Bolt in the 2009 Berlin World Championships in Athletics. In addition, the entire race underwent a unique kinematic [...] Read more.

The purpose of this report is to provide additional analysis and commentary on the men’s 100 m world record of 9.58 s, set by Usain Bolt in the 2009 Berlin World Championships in Athletics. In addition, the entire race underwent a unique kinematic analysis, particularly emphasizing the maximum running velocity and its related factors. It was possible due the application of the new Stuhec software. The data were provided by LAVEG’S advanced laser measurement technology based on positional data with a high spatiotemporal resolution. The maximum velocity phase is the most critical determinant of the final race time. Bolt completed two phases in this world-record 100 m sprint: acceleration and top velocity. The borderline between these phases reached the highest velocity of 12.32 m/s on a 52 m run. He could keep the maximum velocity in five 10 m sections (50–100 m). The occurrence of functional asymmetry—the difference in step length between the left and right legs—was also noticed. Longer steps were taken with the left leg, almost over 80 m. From a practical point of view, new technologies (e.g., software) allow coaches and athletes to analyze the kinematic parameters of sprinting even more precisely and in detail. They must take into account precise changes in the course of maximum speed and the parameters determining it which are step length and frequency. Based on such an analysis, it is possible to modify the training process aimed at increasing the potential, both maximum speed and the supporting factors of strength and power. This must be conditioned by the appropriate selection of training measures shaping the abovementioned motor skills and parameters describing the optimal sprinting technique. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanics, Health, Disease and Rehabilitation)

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18 pages, 5512 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biomechanical Analysis of Latin Dancers’ Lower Limb during Normal Walking

by Xiangli Gao, Datao Xu, Fengfeng Li, Julien S. Baker, Jiao Li and Yaodong Gu

Bioengineering 2023, 10(10), 1128; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering10101128 - 25 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 967

Abstract

Latin dance involves fundamental walking steps, integral to the dance process. While resembling daily walking, Latin dance demands higher balance levels, necessitating body adjustments by dancers. These adaptations affect dancers’ gait biomechanics, prompting our study on gait differences between Latin dancers (LDs) and [...] Read more.

Latin dance involves fundamental walking steps, integral to the dance process. While resembling daily walking, Latin dance demands higher balance levels, necessitating body adjustments by dancers. These adaptations affect dancers’ gait biomechanics, prompting our study on gait differences between Latin dancers (LDs) and non-dancers (NDs). We enlisted 21 female Latin dancers and 21 subjects based on specific criteria. Participants executed walking tasks, with an independent sample t-test for 1-dimensional statistical parameter mapping (SPM 1d) analyzing stance phase variations between LDs and NDs. Notably, significant differences in ankle and hip external rotation were evident during the 16.43–29.47% (p = 0.015) and 86.35–100% (p = 0.014) stance phase. Moreover, pronounced distinctions in rectus Achilles tendon force (ATF) (12.83–13.10%, p = 0.049; 15.89–80.19%, p < 0.001) and Patellofemoral joint contact force (PTF) (15.85–18.31%, p = 0.039; 21.14–24.71%, p = 0.030) during stance were noted between LDs (Latin dancers) and NDs (Non-dancers). The study revealed dancers’ enhanced balance attributed to external ankle rotation for dance stability, coupled with augmented Achilles tendon and patellofemoral joint strength from prolonged practice. Moreover, integrating suitable Latin dance into rehabilitation may benefit those with internal rotation gait issues. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanics, Health, Disease and Rehabilitation)

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11 pages, 545 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Cha-Cha Dance Training on Physical-Fitness-Related Indicators of Hearing-Impaired Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial

by Han Li, Youngsuk Kim, Zhenqian Zhou, Xuan Qiu and Sukwon Kim

Bioengineering 2023, 10(9), 1106; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering10091106 - 21 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1441

Abstract

(1) Background: The physical fitness (PF) of hearing-impaired students has always been an international research hotspot since hearing-impaired students have difficulty in social interactions such as exercise or fitness programs. Sports interventions are proven to improve the fitness levels of hearing-impaired students; however, [...] Read more.

(1) Background: The physical fitness (PF) of hearing-impaired students has always been an international research hotspot since hearing-impaired students have difficulty in social interactions such as exercise or fitness programs. Sports interventions are proven to improve the fitness levels of hearing-impaired students; however, few studies evaluating the influence of Cha-cha (a type of Dance sport) training on the PF levels of hearing-impaired students have been conducted. (2) Purpose: This study aimed to intervene in hearing-impaired children through 12 weeks of Cha-cha dance training, evaluating its effects on their PF-related indicators, thus providing a scientific experimental basis for hearing-impaired children to participate in dance exercises effectively. (3) Methods: Thirty students with hearing impairment were randomly divided into two groups, and there was no difference in PF indicators between the two groups. The Cha-cha dance training group (CTG, n = 15) regularly participated in 90-min Cha-cha dance classes five times a week and the intervention lasted a total of 12 weeks, while the control group (CONG, n = 15) lived a normal life (including school physical education classes). Related indicators of PF were measured before and after the intervention, and a two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance was performed. (4) Results: After training, the standing long jump (CONG: 1.556 ± 0.256 vs. CTG: 1.784 ± 0.328, p = 0.0136, ES = 0.8081), sit-and-reach (CONG: 21.467 ± 4.539 vs. CTG: 25.416 ± 5.048, p = 0.0328, ES = 0.8528), sit-ups (CONG: 13.867 ± 4.912 vs. CTG: 27.867 ± 6.833, p < 0.0001, ES = 2.4677) and jump rope (CONG: 52.467 ± 29.691 vs. CTG: 68.600 ± 21.320, p = 0.0067, ES = 0.6547) scores showed significant differences. (5) Conclusions: After 12 weeks of Cha-cha dance training for hearing-impaired students, the PF level of hearing-impaired students in lower-body strength, flexibility, core strength, and cardiorespiratory endurance were effectively improved; however, there was no significant change in body shape, upper-body strength, vital capacity, and speed ability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanics, Health, Disease and Rehabilitation)

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12 pages, 9956 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Sagittal Pin Angulation on the Stiffness and Pull-Out Strength of a Monolateral Fixator Construct

by Axel Klemeit, Anna Weber, Christoph Bourauel, Kristian Welle, Christof Burger, Frank A. Schildberg and Christoph Deborre

Bioengineering 2023, 10(8), 982; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering10080982 - 20 Aug 2023

Viewed by 941

Abstract

Monolateral pin-to-bar-clamp fixators are commonly used to stabilize acute extremity injuries. Certain rules regarding frame geometry have been established that affect construct stability. The influence of sagittal pin angulation on construct stiffness and strength has not been investigated. The purpose of this biomechanical [...] Read more.

Monolateral pin-to-bar-clamp fixators are commonly used to stabilize acute extremity injuries. Certain rules regarding frame geometry have been established that affect construct stability. The influence of sagittal pin angulation on construct stiffness and strength has not been investigated. The purpose of this biomechanical study was to demonstrate the effect of a pin angulation in the monolateral fixator using a composite cylinder model. Three groups of composite cylinder models with a fracture gap were loaded with different mounting variants of monolateral pin-to-bar-clamp fixators. In the first group, the pins were set parallel to each other and perpendicular to the specimen. In the second group, both pins were set convergent each in an angle of 15° to the specimen. In the third group, the pins were set each 15° divergent. The strength of the constructions was tested using a mechanical testing machine. This was followed by a cyclic loading test to produce pin loosening. A pull-out test was then performed to evaluate the strength of each construct at the pin–bone interface. Initial stiffness analyses showed that the converging configuration was the stiffest, while the diverging configuration was the least stiff. The parallel mounting showed an intermediate stiffness. There was a significantly higher resistance to pull-out force in the diverging pin configuration compared to the converging pin configuration. There was no significant difference in the pull-out strength of the parallel pins compared to the angled pin pairs. Convergent mounting of pin pairs increases the stiffness of a monolateral fixator, whereas a divergent mounting weakens it. Regarding the strength of the pin–bone interface, the divergent pin configuration appears to provide greater resistance to pull-out force than the convergent one. The results of this pilot study should be important for the doctrine of fixator mounting as well as for fixator component design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanics, Health, Disease and Rehabilitation)

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12 pages, 2002 KiB

Open AccessArticle

First Insights in the Relationship between Lower Limb Anatomy and Back Squat Performance in Resistance-Trained Males and Females

by Céline Knopfli, Basil Achermann, Katja Oberhofer and Silvio R. Lorenzetti

Bioengineering 2023, 10(7), 865; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering10070865 - 21 Jul 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1289

Abstract

Identifying key criteria of squat performance is essential to avoiding injuries and optimizing strength training outcomes. To work towards this goal, this study aimed to assess the correlation between lower limb anatomy and back squat performance during a set-to-exhaustion in resistance-trained males and [...] Read more.

Identifying key criteria of squat performance is essential to avoiding injuries and optimizing strength training outcomes. To work towards this goal, this study aimed to assess the correlation between lower limb anatomy and back squat performance during a set-to-exhaustion in resistance-trained males and females. Optical motion captures of squat performance and data from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lower limbs were acquired in eight healthy participants (average: 28.4 years, four men, four women). It was hypothesized that there is a correlation between subject-specific musculoskeletal and squat-specific parameters. The results of our study indicate a high correlation between the summed volume of the hamstrings and quadriceps and squat depth normalized to thigh length (r = −0.86), and a high correlation between leg size and one-repetition maximum load (r = 0.81), respectively. Thereby, a marked difference was found in muscle volume and one-repetition maximum load between males and females, with a trend of females squatting deeper. The present study offers new insights for trainers and athletes for targeted musculoskeletal conditioning using the squat exercise. It can be inferred that greater muscle volume is essential to achieving enhanced power potential, and, consequently, a higher 1RM value, especially for female athletes that tend to squat deeper than their male counterparts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanics, Health, Disease and Rehabilitation)

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11 pages, 1946 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pressure-Volume Loop Analysis of Voiding Workload: An Application in Trans-Vaginal Mesh-Repaired Pelvic Organ Prolapse Patients

by Hui-Hsuan Lau, Cheng-Yuan Lai, Ming-Chun Hsieh, Hsien-Yu Peng, Dylan Chou, Tsung-Hsien Su, Jie-Jen Lee and Tzer-Bin Lin

Bioengineering 2023, 10(7), 853; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering10070853 - 19 Jul 2023

Viewed by 935

Abstract

Although trans-vaginal mesh (TVM) offers a successful anatomical reconstruction and can subjectively relieve symptoms/signs in pelvic organ prolapse (POP) patients, its objective benefits to the voiding function of the bladder have not been well established. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic advantage [...] Read more.

Although trans-vaginal mesh (TVM) offers a successful anatomical reconstruction and can subjectively relieve symptoms/signs in pelvic organ prolapse (POP) patients, its objective benefits to the voiding function of the bladder have not been well established. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic advantage of TVM on bladder function by focusing on the thermodynamic workload of voiding. The histories of 31 POP patients who underwent TVM repair were retrospectively reviewed. Cystometry and pressure volume analysis (PVA) of the patients performed before and after the operation were analyzed. TVM postoperatively decreased the mean voiding resistance (mRv, p < 0.05, N = 31), reduced the mean and peak voiding pressure (mPv, p < 0.05 and pPv, p < 0.01, both N = 31), and elevated the mean flow rate (mFv, p < 0.05, N = 31) of voiding. While displaying an insignificant effect on the voided volume (Vv, p < 0.05, N = 31), TVM significantly shortened the voiding time (Tv, p < 0.05, N = 31). TVM postoperatively decreased the loop-enclosed area (Apv, p < 0.05, N = 31) in the PVA, indicating that TVM lessened the workload of voiding. Moreover, in 21 patients who displayed postvoiding urine retention before the operation, TVM decreased the residual volume (Vr, p < 0.01, N = 21). Collectively, our results reveal that TVM postoperatively lessened the workload of bladder voiding by diminishing voiding resistance, which reduced the pressure gradient required for driving urine flow. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanics, Health, Disease and Rehabilitation)

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17 pages, 5671 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Intermittent Hypoxia and Electrical Muscle Stimulation on Cognitive and Physiological Metrics

by Elizaveta Reganova, Ksenia Solovyeva, Dmitriy Buyanov, Alexander Yu. Gerasimenko and Dmitry Repin

Bioengineering 2023, 10(5), 536; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering10050536 - 27 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1340

Abstract

Objectives: This study describes the effects of interval hypoxic training and electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) technology on human productivity with the following metrics: biochemical indices, cognitive abilities, changes in oxygenated (HbO) and deoxygenated (Hb) hemoglobin concentrations over the prefrontal cortex, and functional connectivity [...] Read more.

Objectives: This study describes the effects of interval hypoxic training and electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) technology on human productivity with the following metrics: biochemical indices, cognitive abilities, changes in oxygenated (HbO) and deoxygenated (Hb) hemoglobin concentrations over the prefrontal cortex, and functional connectivity via electroencephalography (EEG). Methods: All measurements according to the described technology were made before the start of training and one month later, right after it ended. The study involved middle-aged Indo-European men. Specifically, there were 14, 15, and 18 participants in the control, hypoxic, and EMS groups, respectively. Results: EMS training improved reactions and nonverbal memory but decreased attention scores. Functional connectivity decreased in the EMS group while it increased in the hypoxic group. A result of the interval normobaric hypoxic training (IHT) was significantly improved contextual memory, with a p-value = 0.08. Conclusions: It was found that EMS training is more likely to cause stress on the body than positively affect cognitive functions. At the same time, interval hypoxic training can be considered a promising direction for increasing human productivity. The data obtained during the study can also help in the timely diagnosis of insufficient or overestimated indicators of biochemistry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanics, Health, Disease and Rehabilitation)

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19 pages, 3803 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Upper-Limb Kinematic Behavior and Performance Fatigability of Elderly Participants Performing an Isometric Task: A Quasi-Experimental Study

by Helena Silva-Migueis, Eva María Martínez-Jiménez, Israel Casado-Hernández, Adriano Dias, Ana Júlia Monteiro, Rodrigo B. Martins, João Marcos Bernardes, Daniel López-López and Juan Gómez-Salgado

Bioengineering 2023, 10(5), 526; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering10050526 - 26 Apr 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1345

Abstract

Upper-limb position-sustained tasks (ULPSIT) are involved in several activities of daily living and are associated with high metabolic and ventilatory demand and fatigue. In older people, this can be critical to the performance of daily living activities, even in the absence of a [...] Read more.

Upper-limb position-sustained tasks (ULPSIT) are involved in several activities of daily living and are associated with high metabolic and ventilatory demand and fatigue. In older people, this can be critical to the performance of daily living activities, even in the absence of a disability. Objectives: To understand the ULPSIT effects on upper-limb (UL) kinetics and performance fatigability in the elderly. Methods: Thirty-one (31) elderly participants (72.61 ± 5.23 years) performed an ULPSIT. The UL average acceleration (AA) and performance fatigability were measured using an inertial measurement unit (IMU) and time-to-task failure (TTF). Results: The findings showed significant changes in AA in the X- and Z-axes (p < 0.05). AA differences in women started earlier in the baseline cutoff in the X-axis, and in men, started earlier between cutoffs in the Z-axis. TTF was positively related to AA in men until 60% TTF. Conclusions: ULPSIT produced changes in AA behavior, indicative of movement of the UL in the sagittal plane. AA behavior is sex related and suggests higher performance fatigability in women. Performance fatigability was positively related to AA only in men, where movement adjustments occurred in an early phase, though with increased activity time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanics, Health, Disease and Rehabilitation)

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13 pages, 1123 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bipedal Static Supination and Dynamic Forefoot Loading Characteristics in Taiwanese College Badminton Players: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Tong-Hsien Chow, Chin-Chia Hsu, Chih-Cheng Chen and Chin-Hsien Hsu

Bioengineering 2023, 10(4), 498; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering10040498 - 21 Apr 2023

Viewed by 1522

Abstract

Context: Badminton is a unilateral sport that involves repetitive jumping, lunging and quick changes of direction with the lower limb, thus, plantar pressure profiles and foot postural profiles are critical to maintaining balance and coordination. Objective: The purpose of this study was to [...] Read more.

Context: Badminton is a unilateral sport that involves repetitive jumping, lunging and quick changes of direction with the lower limb, thus, plantar pressure profiles and foot postural profiles are critical to maintaining balance and coordination. Objective: The purpose of this study was to explore the characteristics of static and dynamic plantar pressure profiles with rearfoot posture in elite and recreational badminton players as well as assess the transitional changes of plantar loads between static and dynamic states. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 65 college-level elite male badminton players (mean age: 20.2 ± 1.2 years; mean height: 177.4 ± 4.6 cm; mean weight: 72.6 ± 4.6 kg) and 68 recreational badminton players of the same gender (mean age: 19.9 ± 0.8 years; mean height: 170.3 ± 3.9 cm; mean weight: 67.7 ± 3.2 kg). The JC Mat was used to evaluate the arch index (AI), plantar pressure distribution (PPD), centers of gravity, and the characteristics of the footprint. Static foot posture was determined by examining the rearfoot alignment. Results: Both groups’ AI fell within the normal range. The static plantar loads of the elite group were distributed at the bipedal lateral part of longitudinal arches and heels (p < 0.01), while the right foot experienced higher centers of gravity (p < 0.05). The elite group’s static rearfoot postural alignment exhibited a higher degree of rearfoot varus than the recreational group (p < 0.05). In addition, the elite group’s dynamic plantar loads were mainly exerted at the medial and lateral metatarsals of both feet (p < 0.05). During the transition state, the recreational group’s plantar loads were mainly shifted to the bipedal lateral part of metatarsals and heels (p < 0.05), whereas the elite group’s bipedal lateral longitudinal arches as well as the medial and lateral heels experienced a reduction in plantar loads (p < 0.01). Conclusion: For elite badminton players, the findings revealed a possible connection among the static supinated foot, centers of gravity tending towards the right foot, and increased forefoot plantar loads in the dynamic state. The finding merits further exploration of the possible links between transitional changes in plantar pressure distribution in both states and related foot injuries resulting from intense competition and regular training in badminton. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanics, Health, Disease and Rehabilitation)

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14 pages, 2172 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Whole-Body Vibration Training on Oxidative Stress Markers, Irisin Levels, and Body Composition in Women with Fibromyalgia: A Randomized Controlled Trial

by Jousielle Márcia dos Santos, Redha Taiar, Vanessa Gonçalves César Ribeiro, Vanessa Kelly da Silva Lage, Pedro Henrique Scheidt Figueiredo, Henrique Silveira Costa, Vanessa Pereira Lima, Borja Sañudo, Mário Bernardo-Filho, Danúbia da Cunha de Sá-Caputo, Marco Fabrício Dias Peixoto, Vanessa Amaral Mendonça, Amandine Rapin and Ana Cristina Rodrigues Lacerda

Bioengineering 2023, 10(2), 260; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering10020260 - 16 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1861

Abstract

(1) Background: Mitochondrial dysfunction and redox imbalance seem to be involved in fibromyalgia (FM) pathogenesis. The results of our previous studies suggest that whole-body vibration training (WBVT) would improve redox status markers, increase blood irisin levels, and ameliorate the body composition of women [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Mitochondrial dysfunction and redox imbalance seem to be involved in fibromyalgia (FM) pathogenesis. The results of our previous studies suggest that whole-body vibration training (WBVT) would improve redox status markers, increase blood irisin levels, and ameliorate the body composition of women with FM. (2) Objective: The current study aimed to investigate WBVT on oxidative stress markers, plasma irisin levels, and body composition in women with FM. (3) Methods: Forty women with FM were randomized into WBVT or untrained (UN) groups. Before and after 6 weeks of WBVT, body composition was assessed by dual-energy radiological absorptiometry (DXA), and inflammatory marker activities were measured by enzymatic assay. (4) Results: Body composition, blood irisin levels, and oxidative stress markers were similar between UN and WBVT groups before the intervention. After 6 weeks of intervention, the WBVT group presented higher irisin levels (WBVT: 316.98 ± 109.24 mg·dL³, WBVT: 477.61 ± 267.92 mg·dL³, p = 0.01) and lower TBARS levels (UN: 0.39 ± 0.02 nmol MDA/mg protein, WBVT: 0.24 ± 0.06 nmol MDA/mg protein, p = 0.001) and visceral adipose tissue mass (UN: 1.37 ± 0.49 kg, WBVT: 0.69 ± 0.54 kg, p = 0.001) compared to the UN group. (5) Conclusions: Six weeks of WBVT improves blood redox status markers, increases irisin levels, and reduces visceral adipose tissue mass, favoring less cell damage and more outstanding oxidative balance in women with FM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanics, Health, Disease and Rehabilitation)

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Review

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10 pages, 282 KiB

Open AccessReview

Effects of tDCS on Foot Biomechanics: A Narrative Review and Clinical Applications

by Songlin Xiao, Bin Shen, Chuyi Zhang, Zhen Xu, Jingjing Li, Weijie Fu and Jing Jin

Bioengineering 2023, 10(9), 1029; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering10091029 - 31 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1088

Abstract

In recent years, neuro-biomechanical enhancement techniques, such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), have been widely used to improve human physical performance, including foot biomechanical characteristics. This review aims to summarize research on the effects of tDCS on foot biomechanics and its clinical [...] Read more.

In recent years, neuro-biomechanical enhancement techniques, such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), have been widely used to improve human physical performance, including foot biomechanical characteristics. This review aims to summarize research on the effects of tDCS on foot biomechanics and its clinical applications, and further analyze the underlying ergogenic mechanisms of tDCS. This review was performed for relevant papers until July 2023 in the following databases: Web of Science, PubMed, and EBSCO. The findings demonstrated that tDCS can improve foot biomechanical characteristics in healthy adults, including proprioception, muscle strength, reaction time, and joint range of motion. Additionally, tDCS can be effectively applied in the field of foot sports medicine; in particular, it can be combined with functional training to effectively improve foot biomechanical performance in individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI). The possible mechanism is that tDCS may excite specific task-related neurons and regulate multiple neurons within the system, ultimately affecting foot biomechanical characteristics. However, the efficacy of tDCS applied to rehabilitate common musculoskeletal injuries (e.g., CAI and plantar fasciitis) still needs to be confirmed using a larger sample size. Future research should use multimodal neuroimaging technology to explore the intrinsic ergogenic mechanism of tDCS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanics, Health, Disease and Rehabilitation)

15 pages, 633 KiB

Open AccessReview

Tele-Rehabilitation Interventions for Motor Symptoms in COVID-19 Patients: A Narrative Review

by Serena Cerfoglio, Paolo Capodaglio, Paolo Rossi, Federica Verme, Gabriele Boldini, Viktoria Cvetkova, Graziano Ruggeri, Manuela Galli and Veronica Cimolin

Bioengineering 2023, 10(6), 650; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering10060650 - 26 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1346

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic brought new challenges to global healthcare systems regarding the care of acute patients and the delivery of rehabilitation programs to post-acute or chronic patients. Patients who survive severe forms of COVID-19 often report incomplete healing and long-term symptoms. The need [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought new challenges to global healthcare systems regarding the care of acute patients and the delivery of rehabilitation programs to post-acute or chronic patients. Patients who survive severe forms of COVID-19 often report incomplete healing and long-term symptoms. The need of these patients for rehabilitation has been recognized as a public health problem. In this context, the application of tele-rehabilitation has been explored to reduce the burden on healthcare systems. The purpose of this narrative review is to present an overview of the state of the art regarding the application of remote motor rehabilitation programs for paucisymptomatic acute and post-acute COVID-19 patients, with a focus on the motor aspects of tele-rehabilitation. Following an extensive search on PubMed, the Web of Science, and Scopus, specific studies have been reviewed and compared in terms of study objectives and participants, experimental protocols and methods for home-based interventions, functional assessment, and rehabilitation outcomes. Overall, this review suggests the feasibility and the effectiveness of tele-rehabilitation as a promising tool to complement face-to-face rehabilitation interventions. However, further improvements are needed to overcome the limitations and the current lack of knowledge in the field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanics, Health, Disease and Rehabilitation)

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