Showing papers in "The International journal of sports physical therapy in 2011"

Functional movement screentm normative values in a young, active population

Abstract: Background: The Functional Movement Screen TM (FMS TM ) is a screening instrument which evaluates selective fundamental movement patterns to determine potential injury risk. However, despite its global use, there are currently no normative values available for the FMS TM . Objectives: To establish normative values for the FMS TM in a population of active, healthy individuals. Secondary aims were to investigate whether performance differed between males and females, between those with and without a previous history of injury, and to establish real-time inter-rater reliability of the FMS TM . Methods: Two hundred and nine (108 females and 101 males) physically active individuals, aged between 18 and 40 years, with no recent (<6 weeks) history of musculoskeletal injury were recruited. All participants performed the FMS TM and were scored using the previously established standardized FMS TM criteria. A representative sub-group participant sample (28%) determined inter rater reliability. Results: The mean composite FMS TM score was 15.7 with a 95% confidence interval between 15.4 and 15.9 out of a possible total of 21. There was no statistically significant difference in scores between females and males (t 207 = .979, p = .329), or those who reported a previous injury and those who did not (t 207 = .688, p= .492). Inter-rater reliability (ICC 3,1 ) for the composite FMS TM score was .971, demonstrating excellent reliability. Inter-rater reliability (Kappa) for individual test components of the FMS TM demonstrated substantial to excellent agreement (0.70 — 1.0). Discussion and Conclusion: This cross-sectional study provides FMS TM reference values for young, active individuals, which will assist in the interpretation of individual scores when screening athletes for musculoskeletal injury and performance factors.

Shoulder muscle imbalance and subacromial impingement syndrome in overhead athletes

Abstract: Subacromial impingement is a frequent and painful condition among athletes, particularly those involved in overhead sports such as baseball and swimming. There are generally two types of subacromial impingement: structural and functional. While structural impingement is caused by a physical loss of area in the subacromial space due to bony growth or inflammation, functional impingement is a relative loss of subacromial space secondary to altered scapulohumeral mechanics resulting from glenohumeral instability and muscle imbalance. The purpose of this review is to describe the role of muscle imbalance in subacromial impingement in order to guide sports physical therapy evaluation and interventions.

Electromyographic analysis of gluteus medius and gluteus maximus during rehabilitation exercises

Abstract: Purpose/Background: Previous research studies by Bolga, Ayotte, and Distefano have examined the level of muscle recruitment of the gluteal muscles for various clinical exercises; however, there has been no cross comparison among the top exercises from each study. The purpose of this study is to compare top exercises from these studies as well as several other commonly performed clinical exercises to determine which exercises recruit the gluteal muscles, specifically the gluteus medius and maximus, most effectively.

An update for the conservative management of patellofemoral pain syndrome: a systematic review of the literature from 2000 to 2010

Abstract: Purpose/Background: Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is one of the most common and clinically challenging knee pathologies. Historically, clinicians have used a myriad of interventions, many of which have benefited some but not all patients. Suboptimal outcomes may reflect the need for an evidence-based approach for the treatment of PFPS. The authors believe that integrating clinical expertise with the most current scientific data will enhance clinical practice. The purpose of this systematic review is to provide an update on the evidence for the conservative treatment of PFPS.

Comparison of hip and knee strength and neuromuscular activity in subjects with and without patellofemoral pain syndrome

Abstract: Purpose/Background: Historically, patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) has been viewed exclusively as a knee problem. Recent findings have suggested an association between hip muscle weakness and PFPS. Altered neuromuscular activity about the hip also may contribute to PFPS; however, more limited data exist regarding this aspect. Most prior investigations also have not concurrently examined hip and knee strength and neuromuscular activity in this patient population. Additional knowledge regarding the interaction between hip and knee muscle function may enhance the current understanding of PFPS. The purpose of this study was to compare hip and knee strength and electromyographic (EMG) activity in subjects with and without PFPS. Methods: Eighteen females with PFPS and 18 matched controls participated in this study. First, surface EMG electrodes were donned on the gluteus medius, vastus medialis, and vastus lateralis. Strength measures then were taken for the hip abductors, hip external rotators, and knee extensors. Subjects completed a standardized stair-stepping task to quantify muscle activation amplitudes during the loading response, single leg stance, and preswing intervals of stair descent as well as to determine muscle onset timing differences between the gluteus medius and vastii muscles and between the vastus medialis and vastus lateralis at the beginning of stair descent. Results: Females with PFPS demonstrated less strength of the hip muscles. They also generated greater EMG activity of the gluteus medius and vastus medialis during the loading response and single leg stance intervals of stair descent. No differences existed with respect to onset activation of the vastus medialis and vastus lateralis. All subjects had a similar delay in gluteus medius onset activation relative to the vastii muscles.

A pilot study of core stability and athletic performance: is there a relationship?

Abstract: Study design Correlation study Objectives To objectively evaluate the relationship between core stability and athletic performance measures in male and female collegiate athletes. Background The relationship between core stability and athletic performance has yet to be quantified in the available literature. The current literature does not demonstrate whether or not core strength relates to functional performance. Questions remain regarding the most important components of core stability, the role of sport specificity, and the measurement of core stability in relation to athletic performance. Methods A sample of 35 volunteer student athletes from Asbury College (NAIA Division II) provided informed consent. Participants performed a series of five tests: double leg lowering (core stability test), the forty yard dash, the T-test, vertical jump, and a medicine ball throw. Participants performed three trials of each test in a randomized order. Results Correlations between the core stability test and each of the other four performance tests were determined using a General Linear Model. Medicine ball throw negatively correlated to the core stability test (r -0.389, p=0.023). Participants that performed better on the core stability test had a stronger negative correlation to the medicine ball throw (r =-0.527). Gender was the most strongly correlated variable to core strength, males with a mean measurement of double leg lowering of 47.43 degrees compared to females having a mean of 54.75 degrees. Conclusions There appears to be a link between a core stability test and athletic performance tests; however, more research is needed to provide a definitive answer on the nature of this relationship. Ideally, specific performance tests will be able to better define and to examine relationships to core stability. Future studies should also seek to determine if there are specific sub-categories of core stability which are most important to allow for optimal training and performance for individual sports.

The clinical utility of functional performance tests within one-year post-acl reconstruction: a systematic review

Abstract: Introduction: A tear of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) represents a significant injury for an athlete that requires substantial time away from sport, and significant rehabilitation after reconstruction. The physical therapist is responsible to determine when a patient is capable of tolerating the physical demands of daily activities and to attempt to prevent re-injury. Physical or functional performance tests (FPTs) are one mechanism used to evaluate the athlete's physical skills and capabilities prior to returning to sports participation. The purpose of this systematic review is to critically examine the clinical utility of functional performance tests used with patients less than or equal to one year post ACL reconstruction.

The role and implementation of eccentric training in athletic rehabilitation: tendinopathy, hamstring strains, and acl reconstruction

Abstract: The benefits and proposed physiological mechanisms of eccentric exercise have previously been elucidated and eccentric exercise has been used for well over seventy years. Traditionally, eccentric exercise has been used as a regular component of strength training. However, in recent years, eccentric exercise has been used in rehabilitation to manage a host of conditions. Of note, there is evidence in the literature supporting eccentric exercise for the rehabilitation of tendinopathies, muscle strains, and in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rehabilitation. The purpose of this Clinical Commentary is to discuss the physiologic mechanism of eccentric exercise as well as to review the literature regarding the utilization of eccentric training during rehabilitation. A secondary purpose of this commentary is to provide the reader with a framework for the implementation of eccentric training during rehabilitation of tendinopathies, muscle strains, and after ACL reconstruction.

Cervicogenic headaches: an evidence-led approach to clinical management

Abstract: Cervicogenic headache (CGH), as the diagnosis suggests, refers to a headache of cervical origin. Historically, these types of headaches were difficult to diagnose and treat because their etiology and pathophysiology was not well-understood. Even today, management of a CGH remains challenging for sports rehabilitation specialists. The purpose of this clinical suggestion is to review the literature on CGH and develop an evidence-led approach to assessment and clinical management of CGH.

Differences in change scores and the predictive validity of three commonly used measures following concussion in the middle school and high school aged population

Abstract: BACKGROUND: A battery of tests is commonly used to measure disability with and recovery from concussion. A number of different concussion-oriented assessment tests exist and each is considered useful. To the authors' knowledge, no study has compared the scores of these tests during recovery in the middle school and high school aged population to see how each change over time. PURPOSE: The purposes of this study were to analyze clinical data of concussed middle school and high school aged athletes to determine the concurrent and predictive validity for post-concussion syndrome (PCS) of the Post-Concussion Symptom Scale (PCSS), Balance Error Scoring System (BESS), and the five subscales of the Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT). METHODS: The study was a retrospective chart review performed on middle school and high school aged individuals with a diagnosis of concussion from the years 2008-2010 within the Akron Children's Hospital Sports Medicine system. To be eligible for inclusion in the dataset, each subject required a baseline measurement for each of the three tests (and all five subscales of the ImPACT) and a post-test measure. The mean age of the population was 15.38 years (SD = 1.7) and ranged from 11 to 19 years. Pearson product correlation tests (correlation matrix) were used to analyze the concurrent validity of the test items during recovery following a concussion. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves were used to determine the predictive validity of initial scores for developing PCS. RESULTS: The correlation matrix captured five statistically significant findings; however, these suggested only weak to mild correlations. Five test items yielded an area under the curve (AUC) greater than 0.50 but only one was statistically significant. After qualitative evaluation, only one of the three tests (including the five subscales of the ImPACT) was useful in predicting post-concussion syndrome. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that there is poor concurrent validity among three commonly used concussion tests and there is no baseline score that predicts whether post-concussion syndrome will occur. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 2b. Language: en

Integration of strength and conditioning principles into a rehabilitation program

Abstract: Background and Purpose: Rehabilitation and strength and conditioning are often seen as two separate entities in athletic injury recovery. Traditionally an athlete progresses from the rehabilitation environment under the care of a physical therapist and/or athletic trainer to the strength and conditioning coach for specific return to sport training. These two facets of return to sport are often considered to have separate goals. Initial goals of each are often different due to the timing of their implementation encompassing different stages of post-injury recovery. The initial focus of post injury rehabilitation includes alleviation of dysfunction, enhancement of tissue healing, and provision of a systematic progression of range-of-motion and strength. During the return to function phases, specific return to play goals are paramount. Understanding of specific principles and program parameters is necessary when designing and implementing an athlete's rehabilitation program. Communication and collaboration amongst all individuals caring for the athlete is a must. The purpose of this review is to outline the current evidence supporting utilization of training principles in athletic rehabilitation, as well as provide suggested implementation of such principles throughout different phases of a proposed rehabilitation program.

Effects of forefoot running on chronic exertional compartment syndrome: a case series

Abstract: Introduction: Chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) is a condition that occurs almost exclusively with running whereby exercise increases intramuscular pressure compromising circulation, prohibiting muscular function, and causing pain in the lower leg. Currently, a lack of evidence exists for the effective conservative management of CECS. Altering running mechanics by adopting forefoot running as opposed to heel striking may assist in the treatment of CECS, specifically with anterior compartment symptoms. Case Description: The purpose of this case series is to describe the outcomes for subjects with CECS through a systematic conservative treatment model focused on forefoot running. Subject one was a 21 y/o female with a 4 year history of CECS and subject two was a 21 y/o male, 7 months status-post two-compartment right leg fasciotomy with a return of symptoms and a new onset of symptoms on the contralateral side. Outcome: Both subjects modified their running technique over a period of six weeks. Kinematic and kinetic analysis revealed increased step rate while step length, impulse, and peak vertical ground reaction forces decreased. In addition, leg intracompartmental pressures decreased from pre-training to posttraining. Within 6 weeks of intervention subjects increased their running distance and speed absent of symptoms of CECS. Follow-up questionnaires were completed by the subjects at 7 months following intervention; subject one reported running distances up to 12.87 km pain-free and subject two reported running 6.44 km pain-free consistently 3 times a week.

Exertional compartment syndrome: review of the literature and proposed rehabilitation guidelines following surgical release

Abstract: Background: There is little published information regarding postoperative management of patients with Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome (CECS). Reports of recurrence of symptoms following surgical decompression exist, and are not uncommon depending on the specific technique used. Recurrence suggests that more time and effort may need to be spent on implementing strategic post-operative rehabilitation management in order to avoid repeat surgical intervention or prolonged symptoms.

Hip muscle activation and knee frontal plane motion during weight bearing therapeutic exercises.

Abstract: Purpose/Background: Hip abduction strengthening exercises may be critical in the prevention and rehabilitation of both overuse and traumatic injuries where knee frontal plane alignment is considered to be important. The purpose of the current investigation was to examine the muscular activation of the gluteus maximus and gluteus medius during the double-leg squat (DLS), single-leg squat (SLS), or front step-up (FSU), and the same exercises when an added load was used to pull the knee medially.

Postactivation potentiation: an introduction.

Abstract: Improving strength and power in the athlete who is being rehabilitated is a central focus of the sports physical therapist, particularly in the terminal phases of rehabilitation where the emphasis shifts to readiness to return to sport and sports performance enhancement. High load strength training and power training through plyometric exercises are two key components of performance enhancement programs. A current concept in the strength and conditioning literature that is relatively unknown in sports physical therapy is postactivation potentiation (PAP). Even though we have limited data and there may be limited application of the concept of PAP for the sports physical therapist, awareness of this phenomenon is important nonetheless. The purpose of this clinical commentary is to introduce the sports physical therapist to the concept of PAP.

Can upper extremity functional tests predict the softball throw for distance: a predictive validity investigation

Abstract: Introduction Understanding the relationships between performance tests and sport activity is important to the rehabilitation specialist. The purpose of this study was two- fold: 1) To identify if relationships exist between tests of upper body strength and power (Single Arm Seated Shot Put, Timed Push-Up, Timed Modified Pull-Up, and The Davies Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test, and the softball throw for distance), 2) To determine which variable or group of variables best predicts the performance of a sport specific task (the softball throw for distance). Methods One hundred eighty subjects (111 females and 69 males, aged 18-45 years) performed the 5 upper extremity tests. The Pearson product moment correlation and a stepwise regression were used to determine whether relationships existed between performance on the tests and which upper extremity test result best explained the performance on the softball throw for distance. Results There were significant correlations (r=.33 to r=.70, p=0.001) between performance on all of the tests. The modified pull-up test was the best predictor of the performance on the softball throw for distance (r(2)= 48.7), explaining 48.7% of variation in performance. When weight, height, and age were added to the regression equation the r(2) values increased to 64.5, 66.2, and 67.5 respectively. Conclusion The results of this study indicate that several upper extremity tests demonstrate significant relationships with one another and with the softball throw for distance. The modified pull up test was the best predictor of performance on the softball throw for distance.

Electromyographic activity of scapular muscles during diagonal patterns using elastic resistance and free weights

Abstract: Purpose/Background: Abnormalities in glenohumeral rhythm and neuromuscular control of the upper trapezius (UT), middle trapezius (MT), lower trapezius (LT) and serratus anterior (SA) muscles have been identified in individuals with shoulder pain. Upper extremity diagonal or proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) patterns have been suggested as effective means of activating scapular muscles, yet few studies have compared muscular activation during diagonal patterns with varying modes of resistance. The purpose of this study is to determine which type of resistance and PNF pattern combination best elicits electromyographic (EMG) activity of the scapular muscles. Methods: Twenty one healthy subjects with no history of scapulohumeral dysfunction were recruited from a population of convenience. Surface electrodes were applied to the SA, UT, MT and LT and EMG data collected for each muscle as the subject performed resisted UE D1 flexion, UE D1 extension, UE D2 flexion and UE D2 extension with elastic resistance and a three pound weight. Results: No significant differences were found between scapular muscle activity during D1 flexion when using elastic resistance and when using a weight. UT, MT and LT values were also not significantly different during D2 flexion when using elastic resistance vs. using a weight. The activity of the SA remained relatively the same during all patterns. The LT activity was significantly greater during D2 flexion with elastic resistance than during the D1 flexion and D1 extension with elastic resistance. MT activity was significantly greater during D2 flexion with elastic resistance as compared to all other patterns except D2 flexion with a weight. UT activity was significantly greater during flexion patterns than extension patterns.

The navicular position test - a reliable measure of the navicular bone position during rest and loading.

Abstract: Background: Lower limb injuries are a large problem in athletes. However, there is a paucity of knowledge on the relationship between alignment of the medial longitudinal arch (MLA) of the foot and development of such injuries. A reliable and valid test to quantify foot type is needed to be able to investigate the relationship between arch type and injury likelihood. Feiss Line is a valid clinical measure of the MLA. However, no study has investigated the reliability of the test. Objectives: The purpose was to describe a modified version of the Feiss Line test and to determine the intra- and inter-tester reliability of this new foot alignment test. To emphasize the purpose of the modified test, the authors have named it The Navicular Position Test. Methods: Intra- and inter-tester reliability were evaluated of The Navicular Position Test with the use of ICC (interclass correlation coefficient) and Bland-Altman limits of agreement on 43 healthy, young, subjects. Results: Inter-tester mean difference -0.35 degrees [–1.32; 0.62] p = 0.47. Bland-Altman limits of agreement –6.55 to 5.85 degrees, ICC = 0.94. Intra-tester mean difference 0.47 degrees [–0.57; 1.50] p = 0.37. Bland-Altman limits of agreement –6.15 to 7.08 degrees, ICC = 0.91. Discussion: The present data support The Navicular Position Test as a reliable test of the navicular bone position during rest and loading measured in a simple test set-up. Conclusion: The Navicular Position Test was shown to have a high intraday-, intra- and inter-tester reliability. When cut off values to categorize the MLA into planus, rectus, or cavus feet, has been determined and presented, the test could be used in prospective observational studies investigating the role of the arch type on the development of various lower limb injuries.

Comparison of ankle arthrometry to stress ultrasound imaging in the assessment of ankle laxity in healthy adults.

Abstract: PURPOSE/BACKGROUND Ultrasonography (US) may aid the assessment of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) injury after lateral ankle sprains by allowing the clinician to visualize and measure talocrural laxity. Comparison of US against another objective method of ankle laxity assessment, such as ankle arthrometry (AA), is needed. The purpose was to evaluate the relationship between the ATFL length measurements measured from stress US images to the inversion and anterior drawer displacement measured with AA in healthy subjects. METHODS This descriptive laboratory study included 26 ankles from healthy subjects. The apparent length of the ATFL was measured using US during anterior drawer (USAD) and inversion (USINV) stress and the translation of the talocrural joint was measured using AA during anterior drawer (AAAD) and inversion (AAINV) stress. Percent change in length for USAD and USINV were quantified. Intraclass correlation coefficients and pearson product moment correlations Bland-Altman limits of agreement were calculated between relevant variables. RESULTS USAD and USINV percent change in length were positively correlated (r = .76). Bland Altman analysis revealed a mean difference of 5.38 mm (95% CI: -3.5 to 12 mm) with the AAAD producing higher values than the USAD. No significant correlations were found between the US and AA variables, however the absolute AAAD and AAINV variables were also positively correlated (r = .61). CONCLUSIONS The US and AA variables were not directly correlated when measuring inversion and anterior laxity in healthy ankles. Differences between the devices that may affect this include different rates of joint loading, patient position and method of assessing laxity. The AA results demonstrated greater anterior displacement. Results may differ in ankle injured subjects who may demonstrate increases in anteroposterior and inversion laxity. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 2b. Exploratory study in healthy cohort.

Effect of topical menthol on ipsilateral and contralateral superficial blood flow following a bout of maximum voluntary muscle contraction

Abstract: Purpose/Background: Various doses of topical menthol are commonly applied prior to, during, and after exercise to relieve pain although there is limited empirical evidence examining the physiological effects of this treatment. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of two different doses of menthol (3.5% and 10%) on blood flow and arterial diameter before and after an acute bout of three isokinetic maximum voluntary muscular contraction (MVMC) of the quadriceps and hamstrings. Methods: Blood flow and arterial diameter of the right and left popliteal arteries were measured with an ultrasound Doppler prior to and after subjects completed 1 set of 3 MVMC isokinetic knee extension/flexion exercises. Immediately following this exercise one of three different treatment conditions was randomly applied to the right thigh only; 3.5% menthol gel, 10% menthol wipe, or a control condition. Five minutes following the treatment application blood flow through both right and left popliteal arteries was reassessed. This procedure was completed once per week until each of the 16 subjects was exposed to each treatment condition. Results: Repeated measures ANOVA with post hoc analysis indicated that both menthol dosages resulted in significant decreases in popliteal blood flow on the right (–19.60 to –8.39%) and left sides (–14.72 to –5.4%) while the control condition demonstrated an increase in blood flow bilaterally (+26.40 to +15.19%) as a result of the MVMC exercise. The right popliteal arterial diameter was also significantly reduced as a result of both menthol dosages (–5.73 to –6.73%) and increased under the control condition (+6.67%). Conclusion: These results indicate that topical menthol has a rapid effect on reducing ipsilateral and contralateral arterial blood flow as well as ipsilateral arterial diameter. Levels of Evidence: 2a

Knee kinematics following acl reconstruction in females; the effect of vision on performance during a cutting task.

Abstract: PURPOSE/BACKGROUND Specific movement patterns have been identified as influential in ACL injury; however several key kinematic variables that might be predictive of future performance have not been fully investigated. The purpose of this research was to: 1) determine if subjects with ACL reconstruction display different displacement, velocity, and time to peak ground reaction force (GRF) during cutting activities than healthy subjects, 2) observe if subjects with visual disruption display differences in these variables, and 3) determine if visual disruption alters these variables in subjects with ACL reconstruction relative to healthy subjects. METHODS Seventeen healthy female subjects and 17 female subjects with unilateral ACL reconstruction (ACLR) performed 40 trials of a cutting movement during which knee position was measured via a 3D electromagnetic system. Visual conditions were randomized to disrupt vision for 1 second as the subject began the cutting movement, or allow full vision for movement duration. Independent variables were lead/push off leg (ACLR limb or healthy non-dominant limb) and vision (disrupted or full). 2-way ANOVAs were utilized to determine differences between knee kinematics using dependent variables of displacement (m), absolute velocity (m/sec), and time to reach peak GRF (% of cut). RESULTS Knee displacement was significantly less for ACLR (.76±.11; .75±.16) than non-dominant (.85±.08; .87±.12). Knee velocity was significantly slower for ACLR (.81±.14; .84±.16) than non-dominant (.92±.11; .97±.14). A significant interaction was noted for displacement and average velocity (p<.05). Time to reach peak GRF was significantly longer for ACLR (79.41±2.28) than non-dominant (76.65±4.41). CONCLUSIONS Subjects with ACLR displayed less knee displacement, slower velocity, and an increased time to reach peak GRF relative to healthy subjects' non-dominant knee. Visual disruption appeared to have some effect on movement, as noted by interaction effects. These movement adjustments may be indicative of an altered motor program that allows for successful and safe task completion while reducing the forces and load on the knee. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level 2.

Reliability of the sitting hand press-up test for identifying and quantifying the level of scapular medial border posterior displacement in overhead athletes

Abstract: Background: The lack of proper scapular kinematics can limit the function of the entire shoulder complex.1,3 Many forms of scapular dyskinesis have been proposed along with tests to measure for the position and motion associated with those positional and movement faults (2,4-6). While scapular internal rotation has been listed among the forms of scapular dyskinesis there has not been a reliable test documented in the literature that examines this motion. The purpose of this study was to determine whether an innovative scapular medial border posterior displacement measurement device has adequate inter-rater and intra-rater reliability when used at rest and during the sitting hand press up test.

The relationship between lower extremity closed kinetic chain strength & sagittal plane landing kinematics in female athletes.

Abstract: Background: Female athletes continue to injure their anterior cruciate ligaments at a greater rate than males in comparable sports. During landing activities, females exhibit several different kinematic and kinetic traits when compared to their male counterparts including decreased knee flexion angles as well as decreased lower extremity (LE) strength. While open kinetic chain strength measures have not been related to landing kinematics, given the closer replication of movement patterns that occur during closed kinetic chain (CKC) activity, it is possible that lower extremity strength if measured in this fashion will be related to landing kinematics. Purpose: To determine if unilateral isometric CKC lower extremity (LE) strength was related to sagittal plane tibiofemoral kinematics during a single leg landing task in competitive female athletes. We hypothesized females who demonstrated lesser CKC LE strength would exhibit decreased sagittal plane angles during landing. Methods: 20 competitive female athletes (age = 16.0 ± 1.8 yrs; height = 166.5 ± 8.3 cm; weight = 59.7 ± 10.2 kg) completed CKC LE strength testing followed by 5 unilateral drop landings on the dominant LE during one test session at an outpatient physical therapy clinic. Closed kinetic chain LE strength was measured on a computerized leg press with an integrated load cell while sagittal plane tibiofemoral kinematics were quantified with an electrogoniometer.

A pilot survey on injury and safety concerns in international sledge hockey.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To describe sledge hockey injury patterns, safety issues and to develop potential injury prevention strategies. DESIGN: Pilot survey study of international sledge hockey professionals, including trainers, physiotherapists, physicians, coaches and/or general managers. SETTING: Personal encounter or online correspondence. RESPONDENTS: Sledge hockey professionals; a total of 10 respondents from the 5 top-ranked international teams recruited by personal encounter or online correspondence. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS: Descriptive Data reports on sledge athlete injury characteristics, quality of rules and enforcement, player equipment, challenges in the medical management during competition, and overall safety. RESULTS: Muscle strains and concussions were identified as common, and injuries were reported to affect the upper body more frequently than the lower body. Overuse and body checking were predominant injury mechanisms. Safety concerns included excessive elbowing, inexperienced refereeing and inadequate equipment standards. CONCLUSIONS: This paper is the first publication primarily focused on sledge hockey injury and safety. This information provides unique opportunity for the consideration of implementation and evaluation of safety strategies. Safety interventions could include improved hand protection, cut-resistant materials in high-risk areas, increased vigilance to reduce intentional head-contact, lowered rink boards and modified bathroom floor surfacing. Language: en

The influence of heel height on sagittal plane knee kinematics during landing tasks in recreationally active and athletic collegiate females.

Abstract: Purpose: To determine if heel height alters sagittal plane knee kinematics when landing from a forward hop or drop landing.

Physical therapy intervention for a former power lifter after arthroscopic microfracture procedure for grade iv glenohumeral chondral defects

Abstract: BACKGROUND Power lifting places the shoulder complex at risk for injury. Microfracture is a relatively new procedure for chondral defects of the glenohumeral joint and is not well described in the literature. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this case report is to describe the post-operative rehabilitation used with a power lifter who underwent a microfracture procedure to address glenoid and humeral chondral defects, debridement of type I superior labral anterior-posterior lesion, and a subacromial decompression. CASE DESCRIPTION The patient was a 46 year-old male who was evaluated nine weeks status-post arthroscopic microfracture procedure for glenoid and humeral chondral defects, debridement of superior labral anterior-posterior (SLAP) lesion, and subacromial decompression. Rehabilitation consisted of postural education, manual therapy, rotator cuff and scapular strengthening, dynamic stabilization, weightbearing exercises, and weight training over nine weeks (24 sessions). Lifting modifications were addressed. OUTCOMES Results of the QuickDASH indicate that activities of daily living (ADLs), work, and sports modules all improved significantly, and the patient was able to return to recreational power lifting with limited discomfort or restrictions. DISCUSSION A structured post-operative physical therapy treatment program allowed this patient to return to recreational power lifting while restoring independent function for work-related activities and ADLs.

Utilization of sonography and a stress device in the assessment of partial tears of the ulnar collateral ligament in throwers

Abstract: The non-invasive assessment of medial elbow pain in throwers can be challenging. Valgus stress transmitted to the elbow during the late cocking and acceleration phases of the throwing motion can result in injury to the medial ligamentous structures of the elbow, bony surfaces, and common tendon of the forearm flexors. The utilization of musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound in combination with the Telos Stress Device (TSD) (Austin & Associates Fallston, MD) can be an alternate quick assessment when radiography is not be available.

Comprehensive strength training program for a recreational senior golfer 11-months after a rotator cuff repair

Abstract: Background and purpose Golf is a popular sport played by hundreds of thousands of individuals of all ages and of varying skill levels. An orthopedic or sports-related injury and/or surgery may limit an individual's sport participation, require him/her to complete a course of rehabilitation, and initiate (or resume) a sport-specific training program. Unlike the availability of evidence to guide postsurgical rehabilitation and sport-specific training of athletes from sports other than golf, there have only been two reports describing outcomes after surgery and for golfers. The purpose of this case report is to present a post-rehabilitation return to sport-training program for a recreational golfer 11-months after a rotator cuff repair. Case description The subject, a 67-year old female, injured her right shoulder requiring a rotator cuff repair 11-months prior to her participation in a golf fitness training program. The subject participated in six training sessions over seven week period consisting of general strengthening exercises (including exercises for the rotator cuff), exercises for the core, plyometrics, and power exercises. Outcomes The subject made improvements in power and muscular endurance of the core. She was able to resume golf at the completion of the training program. Discussion The subject was able to make functional improvements and return to golf after participation in a comprehensive strength program. Additional studies are necessary to improve program design for golfers who wish to return to sport after shoulder surgery.

Management of acute sports injuries and medical conditions by physical therapists: assessment via case scenarios.

Abstract: Purpose/Background: Some physical therapists (PTs) provide services at sporting events, but there are limited studies investigating whether PTs are properly prepared to provide such services. The purpose of this study was to assess acute sports injury and medical condition management decision-making skills of PTs. Methods: A Web-based survey presented 17 case scenarios related to acute medical conditions and sport injuries. PTs from the Sports Physical Therapy Section of The American Physical Therapy Association were e-mailed a cover letter/Web link to the survey and invited to participate over a 30-day period. Data were analyzed using SPSS 18.0. Results: A total of 411 of 5158 PTs who were members of the Sports Physical Therapy Association in 2009 and had valid e-mail addresses completed the survey, of which 389 (7.5%) were appropriate for analysis. Over 75.0% of respondents felt “prepared” or “somewhat prepared” to provide immediate care for 13 out of 16 medical conditions, with seizures, spinal cord injuries, and internal organ injuries having the lowest percentages. Over 75.0% of the respondents made “appropriate” or “overly cautious” decisions for 11 of the 17 acute injury or medical condition cases. Conclusions: Results of the current study indicate that PTs felt more “prepared” and tended to make “appropriate” return to play decisions on the acute sports injury and medical condition case studies more often than coaches who participated in a similar study, regardless of level of importance of the game or whether the athlete was a starter vs. non-starter. However, for PTs who plan on assisting at sporting events, additional preparation/education may be recommended, such as what is taught in an emergency responder course.

Shoulder pain and dysfunction secondary to neural injury.

Abstract: Study design Resident's Case Study Background/introduction The reports of spinal accessory nerve injury in the literature primarily focus on injury following surgical dissection or traumatic stretch injury. There is limited literature describing the presentation and diagnosis of this injury with an unknown cause. The purpose of this case report is to describe the clinical decision-making process that guided the diagnosis and treatment of a complex patient with spinal accessory nerve palsy (SANP) whose clinical presentation and response to therapy were inconsistent with the results of multiple diagnostic tests. Case description The patient was a 27-year-old female triathlete with a five month history of right-sided neck, anterior shoulder, and chest pain. Outcome Based on the physical exam, magnetic resonance imaging, radiographs, electrodiagnostic and nerve conduction testing, the patient was diagnosed by her physician with right sterno-clavicular joint strain and scapular dyskinesis and was referred to physical therapy. Care was initiated based on this initial diagnosis. Upon further examination and perusal of the literature, the physical therapist proposed a diagnosis of spinal accessory nerve injury. Intervention included manual release of soft tissue tightness, neuromuscular facilitation and sport-specific strengthening, resulting in full return to functional and sport activities. These interventions focused on neurological re-education and muscular facilitation to address SANP as opposed to a joint sprain and dysfunction, as initially diagnosed. Discussion Proper diagnosis is imperative to effective treatment in all patients. This case illustrates the importance of a thorough examination and consideration of multiple diagnostic findings, particularly when EMG/NCV tests were negative, the cause was not apparent, and symptoms were less severe than other cases documented in the literature. Level of evidence Diagnosis, level 4.