bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Telehealth Physical Therapy: More Than an Alternative to In Person Care of the Young Athlete
Authors: Molony Jr. Joseph T. 
Published: December 2021

The shift to telehealth due to COVID-19 revealed that a new care model for the young athlete, which combines in-person and virtual visits, could be an enhancement to in-person care alone. This clinical suggestion is novel as it discusses the utility of a hybrid care model for the young athlete, which has not yet been described. Interacting with the patient and family virtually in the home environment offers benefits that are difficult to achieve in the clinic. Opportunities such as the ability to custom tailor the home program with consideration of the patient’s learning abilities, provide movement quality feedback outside of the clinical environment, observe parent/caregiver feedback, involve family members who may not be available to attend in-person visits, and the possibility of converting an in-person cancelation to a telehealth visit in order to maintain continuity of care, are examples of how this model may optimize treatment. Consideration of investigating the impact on clinical outcomes and cost effectiveness is recommended. Level of Evidence 5
Electromyographic Evaluation of Early-Stage Shoulder Rehabilitation Exercises Following Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: Edwards Peter K , Kwong Patrick Wai Hang , Ackland Timothy , Wang Allan , Donnelly Cyril J , Ebert Jay R 
Published: December 2021

Background Electromyography (EMG) is frequently used as a guide for exercise rehabilitation progression following rotator cuff repair. Knowledge of EMG activity during passive and active-assisted exercises may help guide clinicians when considering exercise prescription in the early post-operative period. Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate EMG activity of the rotator cuff and deltoid musculature during passive and active-assisted shoulder range of motion (ROM) exercises commonly performed in post-operative rehabilitation. Study Design Descriptive cohort laboratory study using healthy subjects. Methods In sixteen active healthy volunteers, surface and fine-wire EMG activity was measured in the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis, and anterior, middle and posterior deltoid muscles during eight common ROM exercises. Mean %MVIC values and 95% confidence intervals were used to rank exercises from the least to the most amount of muscular activity generated during the exercises. Results Standard pendulum exercises generated low levels of EMG activity in the supraspinatus and infraspinatus (≤15% MVIC), while active-assisted table slides, and the upright wall slide generated low levels of EMG activity in only the supraspinatus. No exercises were found to generate low levels of muscular activation (≤15% MVIC) in the subscapularis. Conclusion This study found no clear distinctions between the EMG activity of the supraspinatus or the infraspinatus occurring during common passive and active-assisted ROM exercises. Subdividing ROM exercises based on muscle activity, may not be necessary to guide progression of exercises prior to commencing active motion after rotator cuff repair. Level of Evidence Level 3b
Shoulder and Hip Range of Motion and Strength Changes Throughout a Season in College Softball Players
Authors: Guy Cameron R , Zeppieri Jr. Giorgio , Bruner Michelle L , Davis Katie , Farmer Kevin W 
Published: December 2021

Background Many studies have been done on the strength and mobility of the shoulder and hip in baseball players, but fewer studies have examined these metrics in softball players. Purpose The purpose of this study was to observe and analyze changes in range of motion (ROM) and strength at the hip and shoulder that occur over the course of a competitive season, to describe preseason ROM and strength at the hip and shoulder in healthy college softball players through side-to-side comparison, and to compare measurements between pitchers and position players. Study Design Descriptive Cohort Study Methods Data was collected over the course of six seasons, and a total of fifty-four healthy softball athletes (including pitchers and postiion players) who completed at least one set of preseason and postseason measurements were included. Subjects underwent passive ROM (External rotation [ER], internal rotation [IR], total arc of motion [TAM]) and strength (ER/IR at the shoulder, abduction/extension at the hip) measurements at preseason and postseason timepoints. Results Over a season, position players demonstrated an increase in all ROM metrics in both shoulders, except dominant IR, and a decrease in ER strength at the shoulder bilaterally (p<0.05). They also showed decreased ROM in all metrics across both hips (p<0.05). Pitchers had increased IR and TAM ROM in the dominant shoulder, decreased strength in both shoulders (ER throwing; ER and IR non-throwing), decreased ROM in both hips, and decreased abduction strength in the non-dominant hip (p<0.05). Position players showed less preseason IR in the dominant shoulder compared to non-dominant IR (Dominant: 31.7 ± 1.6°, Non-dominant: 37.0 ± 2.3°; p<0.05). Conclusion Softball pitchers and position players both show increased ROM at the shoulder and decreased ROM at the hip over the course of a season. Position players demonstrated side-to-side discrepancies and seasonal changes at the throwing shoulder similar to those seen in baseball players. The preseason mobility of the dominant shoulder of pitchers increased over the season while strength of hip abduction in the non-dominant side was reduced. Level of Evidence 3
Sport Specialization, Physical Performance and Injury History in Canadian Junior High School Students
Authors: Whatman Chris , van den Berg Carla , Palacios-Derflingher Luz , Emery Carolyn 
Published: December 2021

Background Youth sports participation is encouraged for proposed physical and psychological benefits. However early sport specialization and the potentially negative consequences may be a cause for concern. Purpose To describe sport specialization in Canadian youth and investigate associations with previous injury and physical performance. Study design Cross-sectional study. Methods Junior high school students (grades 7-9, ages 11-16) were invited to participate. All participants completed a questionnaire capturing specialization level (low, moderate, high; based on year-round training, exclusion of other sports, and single-sport training) and injury history in the previous 12-months. Additionally, all participants completed physical performance measures including vertical jump (cm), predicted VO2max (mL/kg/min), single-leg balance (secs) and Y-Balance composite score (%). Logistic regression examined the association between school grade, school size, sex and sport specialization (Objective 1) and the association between sport specialization and injury history (Objective 2). Multivariable linear regression analyses (4) assessed associations between sport specialization category and physical performance measures (Objective 3). Results Two hundred and thirty-eight students participated in the study. Eighteen percent of participants reported high specialization, with no significant associations between sex, grade or school size and specialization category. There was no significant difference in the odds of sustaining previous injury between participants reporting moderate (odds ratio [OR]=1.94, 95% CI 0.86-4.35) or high (OR=2.21, 95% CI 0.43-11.37) compared to low specialization. There were no significant differences in vertical jump height (mean diff [MD] = -0.4 to 2.1cm), predicted VO2max (MD = 2.2 to 3.1mL/kg/min), single leg balance (MD = 0.5 to 1.9sec) or Y-balance (MD = 0.6 to 7.0%) between sport specialization categories. Conclusions Sport specialization exists in Canadian junior high schools but may be less common than previously reported and it was not associated with sex, grade, or school size. Level of specialization was not associated with history of injury nor a range of physical performance measures. Level of Evidence Level 3
The Reliability and Validity of Gluteal Endurance Measures (GEMs)
Authors: Lehecka B J , Smith Barbara S , Rundell Todd , Cappaert Thomas A , Hakansson Nils A 
Published: December 2021

Background The gluteals have unique morphology related to muscle endurance, including moderate fiber sizes and a majority of Type I endurance fibers. Evidence suggests gluteal endurance is related to low back pain, running kinematics, balance, posture, and more. However, reliable and valid measures specific to gluteal endurance are lacking in the literature. Hypothesis/Purpose The purpose of this study was to examine the intra- and inter-rater reliability of two gluteal endurance measures (GEMs) for clinical use. It also aimed to examine validity for the two measures by using electromyography (EMG), recording reasons for task failure, and analyzing differences between demographic groups. Study Design Cross-Sectional Methods Sixty-eight males and females with and without recurrent low back pain aged 18-35 years were recruited from a university population. Electromyography electrodes were placed on subjects’ gluteus maximus and gluteus medius, and each subject performed three trials of GEM-A (abduction endurance) and GEM-B (bridging endurance). Hold times, EMG median frequency (MF) data, and subjective reasons for task failure were analyzed. Results Both GEMs demonstrated high intra-rater reliability (ICC = 0.87-0.94) and inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.99). Mean hold times were 104.83 ± 34.11 seconds for GEM-A (abduction endurance) and 81.03 ± 24.79 seconds for GEM-B (bridging endurance). No statistically significant difference was found between subjects with and without recurrent LBP. Median frequency data validated the onset of gluteal fatigue during both measures. Posterolateral hip (gluteal) fatigue was reported as the primary reason for task failure in 93% and 86% of subjects for GEM-A and GEM-B, respectively. Conclusion This seminal study of GEM-A (abduction endurance) and GEM-B (bridging endurance) found both measures to be reliable and valid measures of gluteal endurance. Further examination of the GEMs in samples with different types of LBP or hip pain is recommended. Level of Evidence 3
Single-Leg Vertical Hop Test Detects Greater Limb Asymmetries Than Horizontal Hop Tests After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in NCAA Division 1 Collegiate Athletes
Authors: Zarro Michael J , Stitzlein Matthew G , Lee Jason S , Rowland Robert W , Gray Vicki L , Taylor Jeffrey B , Meredith Sean J , Packer Jonathan D , Nelson Christa M 
Published: December 2021

Background Knee function deficits may persist after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Return to sport (RTS) testing batteries assess recovery after ACLR and can guide RTS progression, but the ideal test components are debatable. The single leg vertical hop for height (SLVH) test using a commercially available jump mat may provide a valuable assessment of knee function. Hypothesis/Purpose The purpose of this study was to compare the limb symmetry index (LSI) of SLVH to horizontal hop testing in a cohort of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division 1 collegiate athletes after ACLR. The hypothesis was the SLVH would elicit significantly lower LSI than horizontal hop tests. Study design Cross-Sectional Study Methods Eighteen National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division 1 collegiate athletes (7 males, 11 females) at 7.33 ± 2.05 months after ACLR were included in this retrospective study. LSI was calculated for single hop for distance (SHD), triple hop for distance (THD), cross-over hop for distance (CHD), timed 6-meter hop (T6H), and SLVH. A repeated measures ANOVA was performed to identify differences in LSI for each test. Spearman’s Rho correlation coefficient was calculated to examine the relationship between LSIs for each test. Results The LSI for SLVH (84.48% ± 11.41%) was significantly lower than LSI for SHD (95.48 ± 8.02%, p = 0.003), THD (94.40 ± 3.70%, p = 0.002), CHD (95.85 ± 7.00, p = 0.007), and T6H (97.69 ± 6.60%, p = 0.001). The correlation of LSI between SLVH and the horizontal hop tests was weak and non-significant for SHD (rs = 0.166, p = 0.509), CHD (rs = 0.199, p = 0.428), and T6H (rs = 0.211, p = 0.401) and moderate and non-significant for THD (rs = 0.405, p = 0.096). Conclusions Individuals after ACLR had lower LSI on the SLVH than on horizontal hop tests and weak to moderate correlations between the tests suggest SLVH detects performance deficits not identified by the horizontal hop tests. Level of evidence 3
Effective Attentional Focus Strategies after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Commentary
Authors: Singh Harjiv , Gokeler Alli , Benjaminse Anne 
Published: December 2021

Individuals after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) have a high rate of reinjury upon return to competitive sports. Deficits in motor control may influence reinjury risk and can be addressed during rehabilitation with motor learning strategies. When instructing patients in performing motor tasks after ACLR, an external focus of attention directed to the intended movement effect has been shown to be more effective in reducing reinjury risk than an internal focus of attention on body movements. While this concept is mostly agreed upon, recent literature has made it clear that the interpretation and implementation of an external focus of attention within ACLR rehabilitation needs to be better described. The purpose of this commentary is to provide a clinical framework for the application of attentional focus strategies and guide clinicians towards effectively utilizing an external focus of attention in rehabilitation after ACLR. Level of Evidence 5
Perceived Management of Acute Sports Injuries and Medical Conditions by Athletic Trainers and Physical Therapists
Authors: Wallace Alan , Briggs Matthew S. , Onate James , DeWitt John , Rinehart-Thompson Laurie 
Published: December 2021

Background While Athletic Trainers’ (ATs) education emphasizes sport event coverage, Physical Therapists’ (PTs) education may prepare them for event coverage responsibilities. The objectives of this study were to compare the perceived preparedness and decision-making related to acute injury/medical condition management among ATs and PTs and evaluate the relationship between perceived preparedness and decision-making. Hypothesis ATs would report greater perceived preparedness and appropriate decision-making related to acute injury/medical conditions compared to PTs. Study Design Cross-sectional, Online survey Methods An electronic survey was disseminated to licensed ATs (n=2,790) and PTs (n=10,207). Survey questions focused on perceived preparedness for management of acute injuries/medical conditions. Respondents also completed questions that assessed clinical decision-making related to acute injury case scenarios. Kruskal-Wallis H-Tests and Spearman’s Rho Correlations were used for the analysis. Significance was set to p<0.003 after adjustment for family-wise error. Results Six-hundred and fifty-five respondents (292 ATs, 317 PTs, 46 dual credentialed PT/ATs) completed the entire survey. ATs had the highest level of perceived preparedness of all the groups (p<0.0003). Greater than 75% of PTs responded either “appropriately” or “overly cautious” to 10 of the 17 case scenarios, as opposed to 11 of the 17 case scenarios by ATs. Greater than 75% of the PTs who were board specialty certified in sports responded either “appropriately” or “overly cautious” to 13 case scenarios. Conclusion More ATs than PTs perceived themselves to be prepared to manage acute injuries/ medical conditions. Further, results indicate that PTs may be an effective and safe provider of event coverage. Conditions/injuries with low perceived preparedness or poor performance may offer both ATs and PTs an opportunity to identify areas for future training and education to optimize care for athletes with acute injuries or medical conditions. Level of Evidence Level 3b
Dynamic Balance is Similar Between Lower Extremities in Elite Fencers
Authors: Abdelkader Nader , Brown Stephen H.M. , Beach Tyson A.C. , Howarth Samuel J. 
Published: December 2021

Background Few studies have quantified dynamic balance in fencers despite previous suggestions that balance training may be beneficial for these athletes. Generally, asymmetry in dynamic balance performance between the left and right legs can be an indicator of lower extremity injury risk and used to monitor rehabilitation progress. Fencing is recognized as an asymmetric sport, therefore, differences in dynamic balance may exist among uninjured athletes. Hypothesis/Purpose The primary objective of this investigation was to evaluate whether asymmetry of dynamic balance is present in uninjured national-level fencers. It was hypothesized that elite uninjured fencers would demonstrate superior dynamic balance on the lead-leg of their fencing stance. A secondary objective was to compare dynamic balance performance of elite fencers to previously published data from high-level athletes participating in other sports. Study Design Descriptive Laboratory Study Methods Fourteen uninjured elite competitive fencers were recruited. Subjects self-reported the lead leg of their fencing stance. Each participant performed the Y-Balance test (YBT), which represented a measurement of dynamic balance control, on both legs. Reach distances were recorded directly from a commercially available YBT apparatus. Four reach distances were recorded: anterior, posteromedial, posterolateral, and a composite measure was calculated. Distances were leg length-normalized and expressed as a percentage. Sample averages and standard deviations were derived for the four YBT measurements. Results There were no significant differences in reaching distance between the lead and trail legs in any of the four YBT measures (p ≥ 0.65). Fencers appeared to demonstrate larger normalized reach distances in the posterolateral and posteromedial directions than other athletes. Conclusions The results of this study indicate that dynamic balance is not significantly different between the lead and trail legs in elite fencers, despite the asymmetrical nature of their sport. The apparent symmetry of dynamic balance control in uninjured fencers means that the YBT could be used in this population for monitoring progress during training and rehabilitation. Level of Evidence 2b
Lower Limb Exercise-Based Injury Prevention Programs Are Effective in Improving Sprint Speed, Jumping, Agility and Balance: an Umbrella Review
Authors: Bel Loïc , Mathieu Nicolas , Ducrest Vincent , Bizzini Mario 
Published: December 2021

Background Exercise-based injury prevention programs for athletes have demonstrated consistent results in reducing the risk of lower limb injuries. Compliance is essential for program effectiveness and may be facilitated when these programs demonstrate positive effects on athletic performance. Hypothesis/Purpose To summarize the findings of current systematic reviews on the effectiveness of lower limb injury prevention programs with multiple neuromuscular components on sports performance and quantify these effects. The authors hypothesized that injury prevention programs can improve certain sports performance criteria. Study Design Umbrella systematic review Methods Systematic reviews published in French, German, or English between January 1990 and January 2020 were identified in five databases. Only articles that investigated multicomponent lower limb injury prevention programs and their effects on the performance criteria of strength, balance, agility, jumping or speed by both amateur and professional athletes of all ages and sex were included. The methodological quality of the included systematic reviews was assessed by two reviewers independently using the Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews measurement tool. Results Five systematic reviews met the inclusion criteria. Overall, beneficial effects of multicomponent exercise-based injury prevention programs were observed for balance, agility, jumping and speed. While the effects on strength were more variable, there was a positive trend in favor of injury prevention programs. Conclusion Injury prevention programs with multiple neuromuscular exercise components demonstrate overall beneficial effects on the performance criteria of balance, agility, jumping or speed. These beneficial effects may be used to promote the implementation of such programs. Level of Evidence 2a
Reliability of an Observational Biomechanical Analysis Tool in Adolescent Baseball Pitchers
Authors: DeFroda Steven F , Sugimoto Dai , Staffa Steven J , Bae Donald S , Shanley Ellen , Thigpen Charles A , Kriz Peter K 
Published: December 2021

Background Improper pitching mechanics are a risk factor for arm injuries. While 3-dimensional (3D) motion analysis remains the gold standard for evaluation, most pitchers and clinicians do not have access to this costly technology. Recent advances in 2-dimensional (2D) video technology provide acceptable resolution for clinical analysis. However, no systematic assessment tools for pitching analysis exist. Purpose To determine the reliability of the Assessment of biomeChanical Efficiency System (ACES) screening tool using 2D video analysis to identify common biomechanical errors in adolescent pitchers. Study Design Cross-sectional. Methods Adolescent baseball pitchers underwent analysis using 2D video in indoor settings. Observational mechanics were collected using a 20-item scoring tool (ACES) based on 2D video analysis. Fleiss’ kappa, interclass correlation coefficients (ICC), and frequencies were used to examine intra-/interrater reliability based on common pitching errors. Results Twenty asymptomatic pitchers ages 12-18 years were included. Total ACES scores ranged from 1 to 13, normally distributed. ACES total score demonstrated excellent intra-rater reliability within each rater (ICC for rater 1 = 0.99 (95% CI; 0.98, 0.99); ICC for rater 2 = 0.94; 95% CI: 0.84, 0.97); ICC for rater 3 = 0.98 (95% CI: 0.96, 0.99)). There was excellent interrater reliability across the trials and raters (ICC = 0.91; 95% CI: 0.82, 0.96). The ACES tool demonstrated acceptable kappas for individual items and strong ICC 0.91 (95% CI: 0.82, 0.96) for total scores across the trials. Regarding identification of biomechanical errors, “front side position” was rated erroneous in 84/120 ratings (70%), stride length in 52/120 ratings (43.3%) and lead hip position in 53/120 ratings (44.2%). Conclusions The 20-item ACES scoring tool with 2D video analysis demonstrated excellent intra- and interrater reliability when utilized by raters of different musculoskeletal disciplines. Future studies validating 2D vs. 3D methodology are warranted before ACES is widely disseminated and utilized for adolescent pitchers. ACES is a practical and reliable clinical assessment tool utilizing 2D video analysis for coaches, instructors, and sports medicine providers to screen adolescent pitchers for common biomechanical errors. Level of Evidence 3b