No abstract

The rules governing mountain running force athletes to implement into their training programmes uphill and downhill running on unstable surfaces, which are demanding for hip and ankle as well as for the postural control system. The aim of the present cross-sectional study was to compare highly trained mountain runners (MR) and recreational active non-runners (NR) on range of motion (ROM) and strength in the hip and ankle, as well as dynamic postural control. Thirty MR and thirty-two NR were included in the study. ROM was assessed using a digital inclinometer. Strength was measured using a hand-held dynamometer. Postural control was evaluated using the lower quarter Y-balance test (YBT-LQ). The results showed that MR, in relation to NR, had statistically significant smaller hip external rotation ROM (p = 0.007), lower hip external rotator (p = 0.006) and extensor (p = 0.023) strength and greater normalised anterior reach in the YBT-LQ (p = 0.028). Mountain running training may reduce hip external rotation ROM as well as hip external rotator and extensor strength. Moreover, such training may improve postural control. MR should implement exercises targeted at developing hip ROM and strength. Furthermore, it seems that mountain running training may be a good way to improve postural control.

The study aim was to evaluate associations between hip and ankle strength, ROM and YBT-LQ. The study involved 66 healthy males (age: 25.2+6.8 years). Each participant was assessed with ankle DF ROM, hip IR ROM, ER ROM and hip ABD, EXT and ER muscle isometric strength. The YBT-LQ test was performed for both limbs (stance and kicking leg). Forward two-step multiple linear regression analysis was performed to determine relationships between a predictor set and the criterion variable. Of 6 input variables for regression models, only 2 (ankle DF ROM, hip ABD strength) explained variance of YBT-LQ performance. Variance for anterior, posteromedial (PM) and posterolateral (PL) reach distances were explained from R2 = 0.15 to R2 = 0.49, but the models’ composition in PM and PL differed between legs. YBT-LQ composite score in both legs was explained by the same model, including ankle DF ROM and hip ABD (R2 = 0.44; R2 = 0.25). Hip ABD strength and ankle DF ROM assessment may be useful in individuals with poor YBT-LQ test performance to detect specific musculoskeletal deficits. Moreover, the regression models in stance leg for all reaches and composite score were more predictive than for the kicking leg.

Introduction: The scapula is recognised as a key element of the proper functioning in the shoulder complex. Scapular movement abnormalities have been defined as scapular dyskinesis. It is treated as a dysfunction that increases the risk of shoulder pain. Various diagnostic and therapeutic methods have been introduced into clinical practice, the purpose of which are to assess the function of the scapula and restore normal movement patterns. The current state of knowledge does not allow to clearly answer the question as to whether the available tools applied for assessing the mobility and functions of the scapula are reliable and useful in clinical practice during diagnosis within the shoulder complex.