Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology最新文献

{"title":"Cardiovascular and Thermal Responses to Cold Exposure During Exercise in Iron-Deficient Anemic Individuals.","authors":"Panagiotis Miliotis, Spyridoula Ntalapera, Panagiotis Lakeas, Argyris Toubekis, Nickos Geladas, Maria Koskolou","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10030362","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10030362","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background</b>: Temperature regulation is impaired in iron-deficient anemic humans and rats at rest during cold exposure. However, there is a paucity of data regarding the interplay of cold exposure, anemia, and exercise on thermal and cardiovascular responses. Therefore, we aimed to explore thermal and cardiovascular responses of individuals with chronic mild iron-deficiency anemia during exercise in the cold compared to controls. <b>Methods</b>: Nine anemic (5 F, 4 M) and nine control (5 F, 4 M) individuals, matched for body fat, size, and mass but different by design in hematological parameters and physical fitness, participated in the study. The participants cycled in cold 11 °C with 40% relative humidity (RH) and neutral (22 °C, 40% RH) conditions at an intensity ~10% below the respiratory threshold until 1 °C increase in rectal temperature (T_re) or 1 h of exercise, whichever occurred first. <b>Results</b>: In the cold, the anemic individuals showed a lower rate of T_re rise (<i>p</i> = 0.047) and lower mean skin temperature (T_sk) (<i>p</i> = 0.03) compared to controls, while only controls increased heat production compared to the neutral condition (<i>p</i> = 0.035). Moreover, the anemic group exhibited an exaggerated blood pressure response in the cold compared to the neutral environment (<i>p</i> < 0.05), due to heightened total peripheral resistance (<i>p</i> < 0.05) and vasomotor response (<i>p</i> < 0.001). <b>Conclusions</b>: In summary, chronic mild iron-deficiency anemia impaired temperature regulation as judged from the lower rate of T_re rise and an inability to activate further the metabolism at cold. Concomitantly, the anemic participants demonstrated increased cardiovascular strain. This is notable because anemia and these environmental conditions are encountered in the workplace, recreational activities, and athletic endeavors. These findings may inform safety guidelines for athletes, workers, and patients exposed to cold environments.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-09-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12470624/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145149532","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Foot Posture Characteristics and Bilateral Load Distribution in African Male Recreational Runners: Insights from Foot Posture Index and 3D Scanning.","authors":"Yaasirah Mohomed Choonara, Glen James Paton","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10030361","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10030361","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background:</b> Recreational running is a globally popular activity known for its physical and mental health benefits, including stress reduction and improved quality of life. However, many recreational runners lack structured guidance, increasing their risk of lower limb injuries, often linked to variations in foot posture. Although African populations are well known for their endurance running abilities, limited research has examined their foot biomechanics and injury risk. This study addresses this gap by investigating foot posture and structure among African male recreational runners in South Africa. <b>Methods:</b> A cross-sectional, quantitative design was employed. Data were collected using structured data collection sheets, capturing demographic information, Foot Posture Index (FPI) scores, and Three-Dimensional (3D) foot scans. FPI provided a clinical evaluation of foot posture, while 3D foot scans delivered precise structural measurements. The aim was to describe and compare the foot posture characteristics and bilateral load distribution patterns in this population, using the Foot Posture Index (FPI) and 3D foot scanning as complementary assessment tools. <b>Results:</b> Findings showed agreement between FPI and 3D foot scan results, with both tools identifying a high prevalence of flexible flat feet among participants. Each method captured unique aspects of foot posture: FPI offered a qualitative overview, while 3D scans provided detailed, quantitative insights. This dual-assessment approach supports the value of using complementary methods in clinical and sports settings. <b>Conclusions:</b> This study suggests that integrating FPI and 3D scanning enhances the accuracy of foot posture assessments. Despite limitations such as a moderate sample size, the findings support personalized clinical interventions and footwear design tailored to the unique biomechanics of Black African male runners.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-09-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12452290/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145113423","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Preoperative Clinical Phenotyping for Individualised Rehabilitation in End-Stage Knee Osteoarthritis.","authors":"Marisa Coetzee, Amanda Marie Clifford, Diribsa Tsegaya Bedada, Oloff Bergh, Quinette Abegail Louw","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10030360","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10030360","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background:</b> Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is a highly prevalent and heterogeneous condition. Identifying distinct clinical phenotypes within end-stage knee OA populations may inform tailored preoperative management strategies for individuals awaiting total knee replacement (TKR) surgery. <b>Methods:</b> This cross-sectional study employed exploratory factor analysis to identify clinical presentation patterns among patients with knee OA awaiting TKR in South Africa, using modifiable variables including demographic data, physical examination findings, patient-reported outcomes, and functional measures. <b>Results:</b> Three distinct clinical phenotypes emerged: (1) gait and weight-characterised by poor gait mechanics, obesity, and low self-efficacy; (2) central pain-encompassing central sensitisation, depression, and reduced functional performance; and (3) functional factors-reflecting muscular weakness and functional limitations. <b>Conclusions:</b> This study highlights the heterogeneity in clinical presentations among patients with end-stage knee OA awaiting TKR in South Africa. The identified phenotypes suggest a need for tailored, multidisciplinary preoperative interventions incorporating weight management, pain management, psychological support, targeted exercise programs, and behavioural change strategies to optimise post-surgical outcomes and enhance overall care.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-09-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12452372/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145113434","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Estimation of the External Knee Adduction Moment Using Inertial Measurement Unit Sensors on the Shank and Lower Back: A Pilot Study.","authors":"Tomoaki Matsuda, Junichi Watanabe, Tasuku Sotokawa, Toru Shishime, Hiroshi Katoh","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10030356","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10030356","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background:</b> The external knee adduction moment (KAM) is an important biomechanical parameter that reflects the load on the medial tibiofemoral compartment during gait. The KAM is typically evaluated using three-dimensional motion analysis (3DMA) systems. The present study aimed to evaluate and validate the waveform similarity between the KAM estimated using only two inertial measurement units (IMUs) sensors, attached to the shank and lower back (IMU-KAM), as a simpler method and that obtained from a 3DMA system (3DMA-KAM) under different step rate conditions. <b>Methods:</b> Three healthy adult men were included. The gait task involved walking in a straight line over a distance of approximately 10 m at three step rate conditions: 115, 100, and 85 steps/min. Data were collected using a 3DMA system, force plates, and IMUs. The primary outcome measures included the KAM waveforms for 3DMA-KAM and IMU-KAM during the early and late phases of the single-limb support (Early-SLS phase and Late-SLS phase, respectively). The coefficient of multiple correlation (CMC) was used to evaluate the waveform pattern similarity. <b>Results:</b> IMU-KAM demonstrated high similarity to 3DMA-KAM waveforms in the Early-SLS phase under 115 and 100 steps/min, with CMC values ranging from 0.66 to 0.99. However, no clear similarity was observed in the Late-SLS phase. <b>Conclusions:</b> In the Preferred and Reduced conditions, wherein the walking rate exceeded 100 steps/min, the KAM waveform pattern during the Early-SLS phase was accurately estimated using IMU sensors attached to the shank and lower back. The findings of this study suggest the potential of simplified gait analysis using IMUs for evaluating knee joint biomechanics and provide foundational data for future clinical applications.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-09-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12452454/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145113291","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Performance Metrics of Anaerobic Power in Professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Fighters.","authors":"Jessica Hanflink, Corey A Peacock, Gabriel J Sanders, Jose Antonio","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10030358","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10030358","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background:</b> Mixed martial arts (MMA) requires athletes to generate repeated bursts of high-intensity effort with minimal recovery time. Despite the sport's reliance on anaerobic power, there are minimal data assessing pre-competition physiological capacity in MMA fighters. This study aimed to evaluate anaerobic performance using the Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT) and Countermovement Jump (CMJ) in professional MMA athletes, and to examine relationships between performance metrics across weight classes. <b>Methods:</b> Twelve professional male MMA fighters (age 29.00 ± 4.80 years, weight 85.60 ± 13.90 kg) completed both CMJ and WAnT assessments using sensor-integrated devices (Just Jump mat and Wattbike Pro). CMJ height and WAnT variables (peak power, average power, and fatigue index) were measured. Pearson correlations were used to examine the relationships between CMJ and Wingate outputs. Independent <i>t</i>-tests compared performance between lighter (<83.9 kg) and heavier (≥83.9 kg) weight groups. <b>Results:</b> CMJ performance showed significant positive correlations with both average power (r = 0.71, <i>p</i> < 0.001) and peak power (r = 0.61, <i>p</i> = 0.004). Peak power was also positively correlated with fatigue index (r = 0.84, <i>p</i> < 0.001), suggesting greater fatigue in higher power-producing athletes. Finally, the heavier weight group of fighters produced significantly (<i>p</i> = 0.03) more peak power when compared to the lighter weight group. <b>Conclusions:</b> The findings support the use of CMJ and WAnT testing as practical tools for evaluating anaerobic performance in MMA athletes. These assessments can help guide individualized training strategies, particularly when accounting for weight group specific differences in power and fatigue dynamics.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-09-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12452388/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145113512","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Seasonal Body Composition Changes in Elite Rugby Players: DXA and Anthropometry-Based Comparison of Backs and Forwards.","authors":"Blanca Couce, Anel E Recarey-Rodríguez, Selene Baos, Helios Pareja-Galeano, María Martínez-Ferrán","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10030357","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10030357","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background</b>: Body composition analysis in rugby is necessary for profiling athletes for ideal positioning, the establishment of standards and the development of nutritional and training strategies for improvement. This study aimed to assess the body composition of elite rugby players and examine seasonal variations between backs and forwards using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and anthropometry. <b>Methods</b>: Thirty-two rugby players (25.97 ± 4.51 years; 93.00 ± 15.39 kg; 181.77 ± 6.27 cm) from First Spanish National league team had their body composition assessed using DXA and anthropometry before and after the season. <b>Results</b>: The main findings indicated that backs exhibited significant increases in total mass, lean mass and fat-free mass, whereas forwards showed and increased only in bone mass. In terms of somatotype, significant changes were observed only in backs, who demonstrated increased mesomorphy and ectomorphy. Within the forwards, front-row players experienced greater increases in LM and FFM compared to other forwards. <b>Conclusions</b>: Rugby players show differences in body composition based on the physical demands of their playing position. These positional differences in body composition are influenced by both training adaptations and genetic predispositions, which ultimately determine the suitability of players for specific roles on the field.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-09-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12452749/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145113445","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Structural and Functional Asymmetries in Male Basketball Players: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Body Composition, Bone Status, and Performance.","authors":"Dimitrios Pantazis, Dimitrios Balampanos, Alexandra Avloniti, Theodoros Stampoulis, Maria Protopappa, Christos Kokkotis, Konstantinos Chatzichristos, Panagiotis Aggelakis, Maria Emmanouilidou, Nikolaos-Orestis Retzepis, Nikolaos Zaras, Dimitrios Draganidis, Ioannis G Fatouros, Maria Michalopoulou, Antonis Kambas, Athanasios Chatzinikolaou","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10030359","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10030359","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background:</b> Basketball is a high-intensity, multidirectional sport involving frequent jumping, sprinting, and rapid changes of direction, which may expose the musculoskeletal system to varying and potentially asymmetric mechanical demands. The mechanical loading associated with basketball-specific movements may also serve as a consistent osteogenic stimulus, potentially leading to side-specific adaptations in body composition and bone characteristics. Long-term participation in basketball may lead to functional and structural asymmetries between the lower and upper limbs, potentially increasing the risk of injury and impacting performance. This study aimed to investigate structural and functional asymmetries in male basketball players using body composition, health, and performance-related measures. <b>Methods:</b> Thirty-eight right-handed basketball players (age: 21.1 ± 2.8 years; body mass: 86.2 ± 9.2 kg; height: 1.91 ± 8.3 cm) were assessed in a single testing session. The evaluation included bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), single-leg countermovement rebound jumps (CMRJs), and handgrip strength testing. <b>Results:</b> Significant interlimb differences were observed in lean mass and the phase angle for both the arms and legs. Performance differences favored the left leg in terms of maximum jump height (12.0 ± 17.5%, <i>p</i> = 0.001) and reactive strength index (RSI), whereas the right arm exhibited greater grip strength than the left (6.4 ± 5.9%, <i>p</i> = 0.001). DXA analysis revealed significant asymmetries in bone parameters, including bone mineral density (BMD) of the trochanter (1.81 ± 5.51%, <i>p</i> = 0.031, dz = 0.37), total hip (1.41 ± 4.11%, <i>p</i> = 0.033, dz = 0.36), and total arms (-1.21 ± 2.71%, <i>p</i> = 0.010, dz = 0.43), as well as bone mineral content (BMC) in total arms (-2.16 ± 5.09%, <i>p</i> = 0.012) and total legs (1.71 ± 3.36%, <i>p</i> = 0.002, 0.54). <b>Conclusions:</b> These findings suggest that basketball may induce both functional and structural adaptations, likely due to repetitive unilateral loading and sport-specific movement patterns. However, individual variability and the use of diverse assessment methods may complicate the detection and interpretation of asymmetries. Coaches and practitioners should monitor and address such asymmetries to reduce injury risk and optimize performance.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-09-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12452375/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145112933","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Muscle Fiber Recruitment Characteristics in Trained Older Adults: An EMG Frequency Analysis During Voluntary Contraction.","authors":"Tatsuhiko Matsumoto, Yutaka Takamaru, Chikao Nakayama, Shuji Sawada, Shuichi Machida","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10030355","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10030355","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background:</b> Age-related declines in skeletal muscle quality and quantity contribute to frailty and sarcopenia, leading to physical dysfunction in older adults. In particular, the selective atrophy of fast-twitch fibers is closely linked to reduced lower limb strength and increased fall risk. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of habitual body weight resistance training on muscle fiber recruitment patterns during maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) and squatting movements using spectral characteristics of surface electromyography (EMG). <b>Methods:</b> Fifty healthy community-dwelling older adults (28 males, 22 females; aged 64-84 years) were categorized into exercise and non-exercise groups based on training habits. Surface EMG signals were recorded from the rectus femoris muscle during MVC, normal squat, half-squat, and squat movements. Power spectral density (PSD) was analyzed using Welch's method and divided into frequency bands: type I (20-60 Hz), type IIa(1) (60-115 Hz), type IIa(2) (115-170 Hz), and type IIx (170-350 Hz). <b>Results:</b> While statistical significance was limited, the exercise group tended to show higher ratio PSDs in type IIa and IIx bands, and lower PSDs in the type I band during MVC. During half-squats, the non-exercise group exhibited higher contributions above 60 Hz, suggesting inefficient fast-twitch fiber recruitment. <b>Conclusions:</b> Habitual body weight resistance training may influence muscle fiber recruitment patterns in older adults. EMG spectral analysis offers a non-invasive means to detect age- and training-related neuromuscular adaptations.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-09-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12452369/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145113444","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Low-Intensity Virtual Reality Exercise for Caregivers of People with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Pilot Study.","authors":"Maria Grazia Maggio, Raffaela Maione, Silvia Migale, Antonino Lombardo Facciale, Luca Pergolizzi, Piero Buonasera, Bartolo Fonti, Mirjam Bonanno, Giulia Pistorino, Paolo De Pasquale, Rocco Salvatore Calabrò","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10030353","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10030353","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background:</b> Informal caregivers of individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) experience high levels of psychological and physical stress, with limited access to supportive interventions and time constraints. Virtual Reality (VR) technologies may provide brief and accessible opportunities to support caregiver well-being, particularly during waiting periods in clinical settings. This pilot study aimed to explore the potential of a semi-immersive VR intervention to enhance psychological well-being in informal caregivers. <b>Methods:</b> This non-randomized pilot study investigated the effects of a semi-immersive VR-based physical training program (K-HERO^®) on psychological well-being and coping strategies in informal caregivers. Participants were recruited from January to May 2025 at the IRCCS Centro Neurolesi \"Bonino-Pulejo\" (Messina, Italy), and the intervention was delivered individually in a dedicated room within the rehabilitation facility, while caregivers accompanied their relatives to treatment sessions. Ten caregivers completed six sessions (30-40 min each). The study was conducted in accordance with TREND reporting guidelines. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), COPE Inventory, Caregiver Burden Inventory (CBI), and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Visual Analog Scales and instrumental data from the VR system were used to monitor physical performance and user experience. Non-parametric statistics were applied. <b>Results:</b> Significant reductions were observed in avoidance (<i>p</i> = 0.033) and social support-based (<i>p</i> = 0.023) coping strategies. Differences emerged based on caregiver-patient relationships: parental caregivers showed increased anxiety, while offspring caregivers showed improvements. The intervention was well tolerated, with high usability and no adverse events reported. <b>Conclusions:</b> A short, structured, VR-based intervention delivered during clinical waiting periods may effectively reduce maladaptive coping strategies and support emotional well-being in informal caregivers. These findings highlight the potential of brief digital interventions in real-world care contexts. Larger randomized studies are needed to validate these preliminary findings and personalize interventions to different caregiver profiles.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-09-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12452558/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145113401","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Toward a Better Understanding of Hip Adductor Function: Internal Rotation Capability Revealed by Anatomical and MRI Evaluation.","authors":"Kazuhiro Hirano, Kazuo Kinoshita, Atsushi Senoo, Masaru Watanabe","doi":"10.3390/jfmk10030354","DOIUrl":"10.3390/jfmk10030354","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background</b>: At present, the rotational function of the hip adductor muscle group remains unclear. This study aimed to clarify the rotational function and stabilizing role of the pectineus, adductor longus, and adductor brevis (adductor muscle group) based on anatomical findings and T₂ values (ms) obtained from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). T₂ values are prolonged in tissues with higher water content, and in skeletal muscle, it has been demonstrated that T₂ values increase in proportion to exercise intensity. <b>Methods</b>: Using fixed specimens (<i>n</i> = 6, aged 61-96 years), we observed the three-dimensional arrangement of muscles in the neutral position of the hip joint and observed the extension or shortening of muscles associated with passive maximum internal and external rotation of the hip joint. In addition, we evaluated the activity of the adductor muscle group by T₂ values (ms) from MRI pre- and post-internal rotation (forward step with the left leg) and pre- and post-external rotation (backward step with the left leg) movements of the right hip joint in a standing position (<i>n</i> = 8, healthy adult subjects, mean age 29.1 ± 5.3 years). <b>Results</b>: Regarding functional anatomy, the arrangement of the gluteus minimus and adductor muscle groups was almost parallel across the femoral neck. In the evaluation of adductor muscle group activity using MRI, the percent change in T₂ values (%) of the pectineus was 6.38 ± 1.35 pre- and post-internal rotation and 1.35 ± 0.71 pre- and post-external rotation, whereas that of the adductor longus and brevis was 4.84 ± 1.31 pre- and post-internal rotation and 1.31 ± 0.68 pre- and post-external rotation. The percent change in T₂ values pre- and post-internal rotation exercise was significantly greater than that pre- and post-external rotation exercise in the pectineus, adductor longus, and brevis muscles (<i>p</i> < 0.05). <b>Conclusions</b>: The adductor muscle groups are suggested to contribute to joint stability in the coronal plane and provide joint internal rotation in the standing position.</p>","PeriodicalId":16052,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology","volume":"10 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-09-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12452323/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145112978","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}