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Therapeutic exercise protocol for the prevention of anterior cruciate ligament injuries in female soccer players with dynamic knee valgus (RCT).

2026-09-08T01:04:49Z

Título : Therapeutic exercise protocol for the prevention of anterior cruciate ligament injuries in female soccer players with dynamic knee valgus (RCT). Autor : Coves García, Amanda; Poveda Pagán, Emilio José Resumen : BackgroundWomen’s football has experienced exponential growth over the last 10 years. Its popularity is associated with an increase in ACL injuries. They constitute a major current problem as they account for 43% of the injury burden during the sports season. Despite the existing training programs, no uniform criteria have been established to design a precise intervention protocol, with specific tasks linked to women’s football, nor has it been proposed to optimize the current programs.MethodsRandomized, double-blind, single-center clinical trial protocol scheduled for the 2025–2026 women’s football season. There will be 2 groups: a group that will follow a specific ACL injury prevention protocol and a control group. The intervention period will last 12 weeks. Measurements will be taken at 3 time points. The biomechanics of the lower limbs, the jump-landing dynamics, and the pre- and post-training satisfaction of the players will be evaluated. Image capture and processing systems will be used as well as tests such as the DVJ and the LESS scoring system, among others.DiscussionThis protocol aims to be one of the first to implement an ACL injury prevention program for women footballers with DKV. Despite the scarcity of research in this area, studies support beneficial effects at a preventive level.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT06083818. Registered on 03 October 2023.

The Effects of Cervical Manipulation Compared with a Conventional Physiotherapy Program for Patients with Acute Whiplash Injury: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

2026-09-08T01:04:49Z

Título : The Effects of Cervical Manipulation Compared with a Conventional Physiotherapy Program for Patients with Acute Whiplash Injury: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Autor : Parera Turull, Joan; Garolera, Maite; Navarro Pastor, Jose Blas; Esteve Bech-Decareda, Dolors; Gual-Beltran, Josep; Toledo-Marhuenda, José Vicente; POVEDA-PAGÁN, EMILIO J. Resumen : Abstract: Whiplash injuries (WLs) are the most frequent cause of emergency room visits after motor vehicle collisions. In clinical practice, massage, electrotherapy, mobilization, or therapeutic exercise are used. As part of manual therapy, high-velocity, low-amplitude manipulative techniques can also be used. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of the cervical Specific Adjustment Technique (SAT) in adults affected by whiplash on pain, functionality, cervical mobility, and radiological changes in cervical curvature through a prospective, single-blind, randomized clinical trial. Methods: One hundred and nineteen patients with grade II acute WL were randomly assigned to either the manipulation group (MAN group = 59) or the rehabilitation group (RHB group = 60) to receive 3 or 20 sessions of treatment, respectively. Both groups were measured at baseline and 15, 30, and 120 days after starting treatment. Results: Statistically significant differences were found in theMAN group in flexion (p = 0.041) and left-side bending (p = 0.022); similar statistical values were found in the other measures. According to the interaction treatment-time effect, statistical significance for the Cobb angle was obtained in the MAN group (p = 0.047). Conclusions: the effects of SAT were comparable in terms of pain, functionality, and mobility of the cervical spine. Although further research is needed on its effects in the acute phase, due to its effectiveness and lower associated cost, SAT could be considered a useful technique, at least during the first 3 months after a traffic collision.

Surface EMG activity during cervical and upper limb tasks in individuals with neck pain: a systematic review.

2026-09-08T01:04:48Z

Título : Surface EMG activity during cervical and upper limb tasks in individuals with neck pain: a systematic review. Autor : Gascón Jaén, Jaime; POVEDA-PAGÁN, EMILIO J.; Lozano-Quijada, Carlos; Pérez-Alenda, Sofía; Cruz-Montecinos, Carlos; Núñez-Cortés, Rodrigo Resumen : BackgroundNeck pain has been associated with altered neuromuscular function, including changes in muscle activation and coordination. However, inconsistencies across studies have limited clinical interpretation and hindered the identification of consistent differences in muscle activation patterns between individuals with neck pain and asymptomatic controls. This systematic review aimed to synthesise evidence on surface electromyography (sEMG) activity during cervical and upper limb tasks in individuals with neck pain compared with asymptomatic controls.MethodsA systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library was conducted from inception to 5 October 2025. Observational studies were eligible if they compared sEMG activity between individuals with and without neck pain during cervical or upper limb tasks and reported sEMG outcomes normalised to a reference contraction. Two reviewers independently screened articles, extracted data, and assessed methodological quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist.ResultsEighteen studies involving 756 participants met the inclusion criteria. Sixteen reported significant between-group differences in sEMG outcomes, most frequently showing increased amplitude in superficial muscles such as the sternocleidomastoid, upper trapezius, and splenius capitis. Alterations were more consistently observed during cervical tasks, particularly those assessing motor control, whereas findings during upper limb tasks were more variable. Considerable heterogeneity was identified across studies in task design, muscles assessed, and sEMG normalisation procedures.ConclusionsSixteen of eighteen studies reported altered muscle activation in individuals with neck pain, particularly during cervical tasks. These findings suggest that altered activation patterns may reflect task-specific adaptations rather than uniform dysfunction, highlighting the importance of considering task-specific neuromuscular responses when assessing and managing individuals with neck pain.

Surface and elemental analysis of stainless-steel needles after invasive physiotherapy: an exploratory scanning electron microscopy (SEM) study.

2026-09-08T01:04:47Z

Título : Surface and elemental analysis of stainless-steel needles after invasive physiotherapy: an exploratory scanning electron microscopy (SEM) study. Autor : POVEDA-PAGÁN, EMILIO J.; Lozano-Quijada, Carlos; Toledo-Marhuenda, José Vicente; Segura-Heras, José Vicente; Santafé, Manel Resumen : This study evaluated the safety and chemical variations of stainless-steel needles during human tissue application using four electrical stimulation modalities: high-intensity and low-intensity direct current, microcurrents, and compensated biphasic waves. Structural changes and surface integrity of three needle types were also analyzed via SEM. Surface analysis was performed on Type_A, Type_B, and Type_C needles (n = 120) following dry needling interventions on 48 participants using four distinct electrical protocols. SEM evaluation identified carbon, oxygen, chromium, iron, nickel, silicon, manganese, and aluminum across all needles. MANOVA showed that needle type (p < 0.001) and electrical current (p < 0.001) significantly influenced surface composition. A systematic reduction in silicon occurred post-intervention (p < 0.001), while nickel content remained stable (6.1%-7.7%). Qualitatively, Type_A exhibited the most structural irregularities, while percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation caused the greatest organic matter accumulation. These findings indicate that invasive electrotherapy significantly alters the surface elemental composition and morphology of stainless-steel needles, notably through systematic silicon loss. While these changes indicate material loss during procedures, further tissue analysis is required to determine clinical relevance. SEM revealed that Type_A needles developed more surface scratches, whereas Type_B and Type_C accumulated substantial organic matter post-intervention.

Diagnosis and Rehabilitation of a Proximal Adductor Longus Injury in a Professional Tennis Player: A Case Report.

2026-09-08T01:04:40Z

Título : Diagnosis and Rehabilitation of a Proximal Adductor Longus Injury in a Professional Tennis Player: A Case Report. Autor : POVEDA-PAGÁN, EMILIO J.; HERNANDEZ-SANCHEZ, SERGIO; Gascón Jaén, Jaime; Lozano-Quijada, Carlos Resumen : BACKGROUND: Groin injuries are common in multidirectional sports, but proximal adductor longus (pyramidalis-anterior pubic ligament-adductor longus complex [PLAC]) type 6 tears are rare in tennis. These injuries affect the fibrocartilaginous enthesis and pose diagnostic and management challenges. This case report details the conservative rehabilitation of a professional tennis player with a PLAC type 6 injury, highlighting clinical decision-making and return-to-sport progression. CASE PRESENTATION: A 25-year-old male professional tennis player experienced acute groin pain during the 2024 Wimbledon Championships. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a partial thickness tear of the left adductor longus fibrocartilage origin with pyramidalis edema—consistent with a PLAC type 6 injury. A multidisciplinary team opted for conservative management over surgery. A 24-week rehabilitation program began 5 days postinjury, progressing from pain management and protected loading to sport-specific drills. Load advancement was guided by pain ≤2/10 and functional testing. OUTCOME AND FOLLOW-UP: Pain, strength, range of motion, and Hip and Groin Outcome Score improved significantly by weeks 12 to 16. The athlete returned to competitive play at 16 weeks and was symptom-free at 6-month follow-up. Magnetic resonance imaging at 24 weeks showed healing to PLAC type 3. DISCUSSION: Structured, criteria-based rehabilitation enabled full recovery without surgery. Conservative treatment may be effective for selected PLAC injuries. JOSPT Cases 2026;6(1):56-63. Epub 16 December 2025. doi:10.2519/josptcases.2025.0191

Rowing through recovery: Psychophysical outcomes of a combined 12-week rowing and exercise program in breast cancer survivors.

2026-09-08T01:04:43Z

Título : Rowing through recovery: Psychophysical outcomes of a combined 12-week rowing and exercise program in breast cancer survivors. Autor : ASENSIO, MARIA DEL ROSARIO; HERNANDEZ-SANCHEZ, SERGIO; POVEDA-PAGÁN, EMILIO J.; NOUNI GARCÍA, RAUF; Segura-Heras, José Vicente; Tomás-Rodríguez, Maria Isabel Resumen : Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a 12-week multicomponent intervention combining fixed-seat rowing (falucho) with targeted strength and flexibility exercises on physical and psychosocial outcomes in women with and without a history of breast cancer. Methods: A quasi-experimental, parallel-group design was employed. Nineteen breast cancer survivors and nineteen healthy women participated in a structured program consisting of twice-weekly open-water rowing sessions and gym-based conditioning exercises. Functional, psychological, and quality of life variables were assessed at baseline and post-intervention using validated tools (Hand Grip Strength, 30-Seconds Sit to Stand Test, QuickDASH, Piper Fatigue Scale, and WHOQOL-BREF). A multivariate repeated measures model and bootstrapping methods were used for statistical analysis. Results: Significant improvements over time were observed in all functional variables across both groups. Notably, breast cancer survivors showed greater reductions in upper limb disability (QuickDASH, p = 0.011) and cancer-related fatigue (Piper score, p < 0.001). Positive effects on quality of life were also found, particularly in the physical dimension. Group-based rowing in an outdoor maritime setting may have contributed to improved emotional well-being and social engagement, although psychological, social, and environmental domains showed only time-related effects. Attendance exceeded 80% of planned sessions, with no adverse events reported. Conclusion: This intervention appears to be a feasible and beneficial strategy to enhance physical function, reduce fatigue, and support psychosocial recovery in breast cancer survivors. The findings suggest that traditional rowing, especially when combined with complementary exercises, may be a valuable addition to oncology rehabilitation programs.

Neurodynamic testing reveals early and increased muscle activation in individuals with nonspecific neck pain: A cross-sectional electromyographic study.

2026-09-05T01:03:27Z

Título : Neurodynamic testing reveals early and increased muscle activation in individuals with nonspecific neck pain: A cross-sectional electromyographic study. Autor : Gascón Jaén, Jaime; Carrasco Fernández, Juan José; Lozano-Quijada, Carlos; POVEDA-PAGÁN, EMILIO J.; Pérez-Alenda, Sofía Resumen : Background: Neurodynamic testing has been associated with increased muscle activity; however, differences in muscle activation between individuals with nonspecific neck pain and asymptomatic individuals during upper limb neurodynamic testing remain unexplored. This study aimed to examine differences in muscle activity during upper limb neurodynamic test 1 (ULNT1) and upper limb neurodynamic test 2A (ULNT2A) between individuals with nonspecific neck pain and asymptomatic individuals. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted including 61 participants: 30 individuals with nonspecific neck pain and 31 asymptomatic individuals. Muscle activity of the upper trapezius, biceps brachii, triceps brachii, and flexor carpi radialis was recorded using surface electromyography during ULNT1 and ULNT2A maneuvers. Findings: Individuals with nonspecific neck pain exhibited earlier onset and greater muscle activation than asymptomatic individuals across test maneuvers, particularly in the upper trapezius. In ULNT1, significant between-group differences in upper trapezius activity were observed during shoulder abduction, shoulder external rotation, and wrist extension (P < 0.001). In ULNT2A, differences were identified during shoulder girdle depression, elbow extension, shoulder external rotation, wrist extension, and shoulder abduction (P ≤ 0.015). Consistent between-group differences were also observed in the triceps brachii, biceps brachii, and flexor carpi radialis across both tests. Interpretation: Altered muscle activation patterns during upper limb neurodynamic testing indicate modified neuromuscular control in individuals with nonspecific neck pain. The earlier and increased myoelectric responses observed are consistent with a protective motor strategy in response to neural loading during neurodynamic test performance, providing novel insight into neuromuscular responses in individuals with nonspecific neck pain across muscles and test maneuvers.

Prevalence and Predictive Factors of Active Myofascial Trigger Points Among Office Workers Using to Visual Display Terminals: A Cross-Sectional Study.

2026-09-05T01:03:27Z

Título : Prevalence and Predictive Factors of Active Myofascial Trigger Points Among Office Workers Using to Visual Display Terminals: A Cross-Sectional Study. Autor : POVEDA-PAGÁN, EMILIO J.; Lozano-Quijada, Carlos; Hernández-Sánchez, Sergio; Toledo-Marhuenda, José Vicente; López Pintado, Eduardo; Segura-Heras, José Vicente; Gascón Jaén, Jaime Resumen : Objective: To determine the prevalence of active myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) in office workers who sit for extended periods and use visual display terminals for ≥4 hours a day. Identify predictive factors associated with MTrP activation. Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Administration and services departments in municipal settings (January-August 2025). Participants: A total of 305 municipal volunteer employees (N=305; 133 men: 36.30±8.80y; 172 women: 37.59±9.44y) aged 18-65 years who worked at a video display terminal for ≥4 hours daily were included. Interventions: Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures: Participants completed the Neck Disability Index and Oswestry Disability Index. A physiotherapist specialized in myofascial pain assessed bilateral MTrPs in cervical and lumbogluteal muscles using standardized palpation and algometry. Logistic regression models were developed to identify predictive factors, and model performance was evaluated through receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Results: Active MTrPs were found in 40% of participants in the right trapezius (25% men; 54% women), 35% in the left trapezius (18% men; 48% women), and 20% in the right sternocleidomastoid (9% men; 28% women), with consistently higher prevalence in women. Neck Disability Index and Oswestry Disability Index scores were identified as significant predictor factors (odds ratio>1), whereas higher pressure pain thresholds were protective (odds ratio<1). The models demonstrated good discriminative ability (area under the curve, 0.74-0.88) and high sensitivity (∼90%). Conclusions: Active MTrPs show high prevalence among office workers, particularly in women and the cervical region. Disability scores were associated with increased MTrP activation, whereas higher pressure pain thresholds were linked to lower activation. These findings suggest that incorporating algometry into musculoskeletal assessments and strengthening programs for cervical, scapular, and lumbar muscles may help prevent myofascial pain and disability in sedentary workers.

Influence of shoulder external rotation on sensory responses to the upper limb neurodynamic test 1 in men and women with and without non-specific neck pain: a cross-sectional study.

2026-09-05T01:03:26Z

Título : Influence of shoulder external rotation on sensory responses to the upper limb neurodynamic test 1 in men and women with and without non-specific neck pain: a cross-sectional study. Autor : Gascón Jaén, Jaime; Lozano-Quijada, Carlos; Peña-Castillo, Tamara; Pérez-Alenda, Sofía; Segura-Heras, José Vicente; POVEDA-PAGÁN, EMILIO J. Resumen : Objective: To compare symptom intensity and sensory characteristics evoked during the standard Upper Limb Neurodynamic Test 1 (ULNT1) and a modified version without shoulder external rotation in men and women with and without nonspecific neck pain (NSNP). Methods: A cross-sectional study including 110 participants (55 with NSNP and 55 asymptomatic controls; 28 women and 27 men in each group) was conducted. Both ULNT1 versions were performed bilaterally in randomized order. Symptom intensity (Numerical Rating Scale), sensation type, and location were recorded after each test. Data were analyzed using a linear mixed-effects model with aligned rank transformation considering group, sex, and test as fixed factors. Results: Participants with NSNP reported higher symptom intensity than asymptomatic controls in both ULNT1 versions (p < 0.001). The standard ULNT1 elicited higher intensity than the modified version (p < 0.05). No significant main effect of sex or interaction effects were observed. Pain sensations were more frequent in women with NSNP, whereas tingling predominated in men with NSNP. Thumb-related symptoms were more common in the NSNP group, while forearm sensations were more frequent among asymptomatic participants. Conclusion: Individuals with NSNP show greater symptom intensity and distinct sensory profiles during both the standard and modified ULNT1, consistent with increased neural mechanosensitivity. Shoulder external rotation slightly amplifies these responses but without clinically meaningful differences. These findings highlight consistent differences in sensory responses between individuals with and without NSNP during neurodynamic testing, supporting more consistent clinical interpretation of ULNT1 and guiding test selection when shoulder rotation is restricted or not tolerated.

Total and different types of olive oil consumption, gut microbiota, and cognitive function changes in older adults

2026-07-22T01:05:09Z

Título : Total and different types of olive oil consumption, gut microbiota, and cognitive function changes in older adults Autor : Ni, Jiaqi; Nishi, Stephanie K.; BABIO SÁNCHEZ, NANCY; Belzer, Clara; Vioque, Jesús; Corella, Dolores; Hernando Redondo, Javier; Vidal, Josep; Moreno-Indias, Isabel; Compañ Gabucio, Laura M; Coltell, Oscar; Fitó, Montse; Toledo, Estefanía; Wang, Dong D.; Tinahones, Francisco J Resumen : Background: Over the past decade, emerging evidence has shed light on the role of the gut microbiota in the interface between diet and brain health. Olive oil, particularly virgin olive oil, a key component and major fat source in the Mediterranean diet, has exhibited widespread healthful benefits, including improvements in gut microbiota and cognitive health. Despite insights from preclinical studies into the relationship between virgin olive oil consumption, gut microbiota, and cognitive function, human research in this area remains limited. Therefore, our study aims to investigate the interplay between total olive oil consumption and its subtypes, gut microbiota, and changes in cognitive function in older adults who were cognitively healthy at baseline but at high risk of cognitive decline. Methods: In this prospective cohort study, we assessed a total of 656 participants aged 55 to 75y (mean age 65.0 ± 4.9y, 47.9% women) with overweight/obesity and metabolic syndrome who provided stool samples and completed a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire at baseline and a comprehensive battery of neuropsychological tests at baseline and at a 2-y follow-up. Results: Results from the multivariable linear regression models showed that higher consumption of virgin olive oil was associated with improved cognitive function over a 2-y follow-up, and a more diverse gut microbiota overall structure at baseline. Conversely, increased consumption of common olive oil is linked to lower alpha diversity of the microbial communities, and accelerated cognitive decline. Mediation analysis suggests that gut microbiota and particularly the Adlercreutzia, may serve as a mediator taxon in the association between virgin olive oil consumption and positive changes in general cognitive function. Conclusions: Higher consumption of virgin olive oil was associated with cognitive preservation, possibly mediated by favorable alterations in gut microbiota composition. Our study provides novel insights into the complex interplay between different types of olive oil consumption, gut microbiota, and changes in cognitive function. These findings underscore the potential of microbiota-targeted dietary strategies to promote cognitive health in aging populations, though further high-quality and clinical cohort studies are required. Video Abstract.