Author: Menna Allah Mohamed Saad, Amal Mohamed Abd Elbaky, Ashraf Elsebaie Mohamed Elsebaie, Shimaa Galal El Sayed Mohamed, Khadra Mohamed Ali

Low-level laser therapy and Graston technique on recurrence rate of palmar fibromatosis post percutaneous needle fasciotomy

Menna Allah Mohamed Saad, Amal Mohamed Abd Elbaky, Ashraf Elsebaie Mohamed Elsebaie, Shimaa Galal El Sayed Mohamed, Khadra Mohamed Ali

Menna Allah Mohamed Saad, Amal Mohamed Abd Elbaky, Ashraf Elsebaie Mohamed Elsebaie, Shimaa Galal El Sayed Mohamed, Khadra Mohamed Ali – Low-level laser therapy and Graston technique on recurrence rate of palmar fibromatosis post percutaneous needle fasciotomy –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 94-100

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007DLV0U

Abstract
Purpose. To investigate the effect of Graston technique and low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on the recurrence rate of palmar fibromatosis after the percutaneous needle fasciotomy (PNF) procedure.
Material and methods. In a randomized controlled trial, 120 patients of both genders, aged 45 to 70 years, were divided into four equal groups of 30 patients each. All participants were diagnosed with stage 2 palmar fibromatosis and underwent surgical release (PNF). Treatment began 5 days post-surgery. Group A received LLLT and the Graston technique in addition to a traditional physical therapy program (ultrasound, hand grip strengthening exercises, night splint) for six weeks, with 18 sessions provided every other day (3 sessions per week). Group B received the Graston technique plus a traditional physical therapy program for six weeks. Group C received LLLT plus a traditional physical therapy program for six weeks. Group D received only the traditional physical therapy program for six weeks. Measurements were conducted using the modified Quick DASH and hand grip assessments before and after the six-week treatment period, as well as evaluations of recurrence rates at 6, 12, and 18 months following the conclusion of the treatment.
Results. Post-treatment comparative analysis across the four groups revealed statistically significant outcomes, with all groups showing notable reductions in Quick DASH scores and significant improvements in hand grip strength (p < 0.01). Detailed intergroup evaluations demonstrated that Group A exhibited superior improvements compared to groups B, C, and D, while Group B showed significant enhancements relative to groups C and D. No substantial differences were noted between groups C and D. Additionally, groups A and B showed significantly lower recurrence rates of palmar fibromatosis at 6, 12, and 18 months compared to groups C and D (p < 0.001).
Conclusions. The combined effect of the Graston technique with LLLT and a traditional program significantly reduces the recurrence rate of palmar fibromatosis compared to the other groups, alongside improvements in hand grip strength and reductions in modified Quick DASH scores.
Key words
palmar fibromatosis, Graston technique, percutaneous needle fasciotomy, Dupuytren disease, hand grip strength, hand grip dynamometer, DASH, recurrence rate
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Does three sessions of 12-week plyometric training per week improve physical fitness parameters in professional male soccer players? A randomized controlled trial

Deepak Siby, Navaraj Chelliah Jesus Rajkumar, Nirmal Michael Salvi, Debajit Karmakar, Ibnu Noufal Kambitta Valappil, Bekir Erhan Orhan, Farjana Akter Boby, Yuni Astuti

Deepak Siby et al. – Does three sessions of 12-week plyometric training per week improve physical fitness parameters in professional male soccer players? A randomized controlled trial –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 84-93

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007DDZ6Q

Abstract
Background. Plyometric training is recognized for enhancing various physical fitness parameters critical to athletic performance, particularly in soccer players.
Purpose. This study aimed to assess the effects of a 12-week plyometric training program, conducted three times per week, on key fitness parameters in professional male soccer players.
Methods. A total of 40 professional male soccer players were randomly assigned to a control group (CG, n=20) and a plyometric training group (PTG, n=20). Participants (mean height = 176.14±3.28 cm, weight = 68.24±2.17 kg, and age = 20.31±2.30 years) underwent a 12-week plyometric training intervention. Fitness assessments were conducted before and after the intervention, measuring agility (t-test), balance (stork stand test), speed (50 m dash), power (medicine ball throw test), explosive power (vertical jump), leg strength (standing broad jump), and core strength (sit-up test).
Results. Significant improvements (p < 0.001) were observed in the PTG across all fitness parameters compared to the control group, indicating the effectiveness of plyometric training in enhancing physical fitness in soccer players.
Conclusion. The 12-week plyometric training program positively impacted agility, balance, speed, power, explosive power, leg strength, and core strength in professional male soccer players, suggesting it as a valuable regimen for improving overall physical performance.
Key words
plyometric training, physical fitness, agility, balance, speed, power, soccer, strength
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Mastering risk reduction: innovative martial arts training program based on risk analysis

Heri Yusuf Muslihin, Rusani Jaelani

Heri Yusuf Muslihin, Rusani Jaelani – Mastering risk reduction: innovative martial arts training program based on risk analysis –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 78-83

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007DNT5Q

Abstract
There is a pressing need for a structured sports training program that includes risk analysis and prevention strategies to minimize injuries while maximizing athletic performance, particularly in martial arts. This study aims to analyze and design a comprehensive risk-based sports training program in martial arts to reduce injury risks and enhance athlete performance by considering physical, mental, and psychological aspects. A qualitative approach with a phenomenological design was used to investigate the perspectives of coaches and athletes at the Perisai Diri silat academy in Tasikmalaya City regarding training program planning based on risk analysis. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 coaches and 15 athletes to gather insights into their experiences and challenges. While a structured martial arts training program is essential, many coaches lack written programs tailored to athletes’ needs, often relying on general guidelines. Interviews highlighted discrepancies between coaches and athletes regarding training schedules and assessments, revealing that not all coaches conduct thorough evaluations. This oversight leads to misaligned training loads, increasing injury risks. Furthermore, coaches must consider environmental factors, athlete distractions, and psychological support for effective training implementation. By adopting an individualized approach based on initial evaluations, training programs can be tailored to meet each athlete’s specific needs, enhancing both safety and effectiveness.
Key words
athlete performance, risk analysis, training program
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Ocena stanu funkcjonalnego i jakości życia pacjentów po 60. roku życia

Tomasz Wiktorek, Robert Irzmański, Małgorzata Kilon

Tomasz Wiktorek, Robert Irzmański, Małgorzata Kilon – Assesment of the functional status and quality of life of patient over 60 years of age –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 71-77

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007DZ3QF

Abstract
Aim. The aim of the study was to asses the functional status and quality of life of patients over 60 years of age living in the community and using institutional care.
Materials and Methods. The study included 60 people aged 66 to 98 (82.8 ± 8.4), residents of a long-term care facility (HCC) and patients of geriatric clinic. Both groups were equal in size. An original survey was used in the study. In order to assess the functional status, handgrip measurement (HGS), the Up and Go test (TUG), short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and the Barthel scale were performed and the WHOQOL-BREEF questionnaire was used to assess the quality of life. The obtained results were subjected to statistical analysis. The normality of the distributions was verified using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Student’s T-test and non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test were used to determine the statistical significance of differences between groups. The significance level was set to p < 0.05.
Results/ All tests assessing functional status and quality of life differed between groups at the level of statistical significance (p < 0.001).Physical fitness significantly influenced the quality of life (p < 0.001).
Conclusions/ People living in an institutional environment achieved poorer results in all functional and quality of life tests. The quality of life depended on the functional status and was higher in people living in an institutional environment.
Key words
functional status, quality of life, erderly people, institutional care
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Efficacy of soft tissue manipulation technique vs therapeutic exercise for an inadequate venous supply in women after pregnancy

Jenifer Augustina S, Kamalakannan M, Radhika S, Dhanusia S, Bharathi Ravichandran

Jenifer Augustina S, Kamalakannan M, Radhika S, Dhanusia S, Bharathi Ravichandran – Efficacy of soft tissue manipulation technique vs therapeutic exercise for an inadequate venous supply in women after pregnancy –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 67-70

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007DZPX0

Abstract
Background. It is caused by primary problems in the vascular wall and valve structure, as well as their insufficiency. Additionally, factors such as hormonal changes, pregnancy, obesity, insufficient movement, working in a sedentary position, and oral contraceptives contribute to impaired vascular tension and structure.
Objective. This study compares the effect of soft tissue manipulation technique and therapeutic exercise on inadequate venous supply in postpartum women.
Methodology. Thirty individuals were included in the study based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. They were randomly allocated into two groups receiving one of the two physiotherapy interventions. NPRS and SF-36 were used to assess the effect of the interventions by comparing venous blood flow improvement before and after the allotted treatment for 10 weeks.
Results. A significant difference in NPRS and SF-36 scores was observed in both groups, indicating the effectiveness of both myofascial release manual therapy and therapeutic exercise. However, myofascial release manual therapy proved to be more effective in improving venous blood flow.
Conclusion. This study concludes that both soft tissue manipulation and therapeutic exercise improve venous blood flow. However, soft tissue manipulation was significantly more effective than therapeutic exercise.
Keywords
physiotherapy, venous insufficiency, postpartum, manual therapy, therapeutic exercises
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Analysis of student physical activity levels and the concept of using Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) for changes in student physical activity behavior

Muhammad Naufal Ramadhansyah, Yustinus Sukarmin, Novita Intan Arovah

Muhammad Naufal Ramadhansyah, Yustinus Sukarmin, Novita Intan Arovah – Analysis of student physical activity levels and the concept of using Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) for changes in student physical activity behavior –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 62-66

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007D4JD8

Abstract
Study Purpose. This study aims to determine the condition of students’ physical activity levels. Look for causes or problems that make students rarely do physical activity. In addition, it tries to examine the role of Social Theory Cognitive if applied to increase students’ physical activity.
Material and Methods.  The sample of this study is 150 students of the Faculty of Sports Sciences, State University of Makassar. The sample was randomly selected. Physical activity measurement uses the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short-Form (IPAQ-SF) version.
Results. Based on the results of research from 150 respondents, 19 students (12.7%) had a high level of physical activity with an average of  IPAQ 1855.37 and MET 5.7, 47 students (31.3%) had a moderate level of physical activity with an average of IPAQ 1041.31 and MET 3.6, and 84 students (56%) had a low level of physical activity with an average of IPAQ 502.62 and MET 3.2.
Conclusion. The results of this study found that most college students have low physical activity. The use of SCT is expected to be used as an intervention to promote physical activity for students.
Keywords
Physical Activity, Social Cognitive Theory
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Assessment of the fitness test 10-metre underwater run among military cadet officers

Shahrulfadly Rustam, Aiman Shahrul Hazim Mohd Sabudin, Mohd Izwan Shahril, Jorrye Jakiwa

Shahrulfadly Rustam, Aiman Shahrul Hazim Mohd Sabudin, Mohd Izwan Shahril, Jorrye Jakiwa – Assessment of the fitness test 10-metre underwater run among military cadet officers –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 57-61

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007D4ZH2

Abstract
This study assesses the reliability of the 10-metre underwater run as a fitness test among military cadet officers, focusing on its ability to evaluate anaerobic capacity, breath-hold endurance, and adaptability to aquatic environments. As military operations increasingly require performance in water-based settings, traditional land-focused assessments may not fully capture operational readiness. The 10-metre underwater run challenges cadets to hold their breath while sprinting underwater, engaging both aerobic and anaerobic energy systems.
Using a quantitative test-retest approach, 30 cadet officers from the National Defence University of Malaysia completed the test twice, with a seven-day interval. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to determine consistency between test sessions, resulting in a high correlation of 0.810 (p < 0.001), indicating strong reliability. This reliability supports the test as a robust tool for assessing underwater sprint capacity and breath-hold endurance. The results align with previous findings on the importance of repeatability in operational fitness tests, suggesting that the 10-metre underwater run could serve as a valuable tool in military training for evaluating cadet readiness in aquatic scenarios. Future studies could expand the sample size and explore additional variables, enhancing the understanding of performance in underwater environments and strengthening military training frameworks for diverse operational demands.
Key words
reliability, 10-metre underwater run, fitness test, military cadet, assessment
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Sport massage vs cupping: which one is more effective in improving blood oxygen level and reducing lactic acid?

Yuni Fitriyah Ningsih, Advendi Kristiyandaru, Faridha Nurhayati, Resti Nurpratiwi, Ratakorn Aimkosa, Mashuri Eko Winarno, Adita Dwi Safirah

Yuni Fitriyah Ningsih et al. – Sport massage vs cupping: which one is more effective in improving blood oxygen level and reducing lactic acid? –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 48-56

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007DAVFB

Abstract
Athletes often face challenges in maintaining optimal blood oxygen levels and reducing lactic acid levels after intense exercise, which can affect their performance and recovery. Existing approaches are often not effective enough in addressing these issues, so innovative strategies that are more efficient are needed. This study aimed to explore the impact of sport massage and dry cupping on blood oxygen levels and lactic acid levels in athletes performing submaximal exercise.
The study used a quasi-experimental design involving 45 randomly selected volleyball athletes aged 15–24 years. The participants were divided into three groups: a sport massage group, a dry cupping group, and a control group that received conventional treatment without sport massage or
cupping intervention.
Data collection procedures included a standardized intensive training session for all athletes before the start of the intervention, the administration of sport massage and cupping to the intervention groups after the training session, and the measurement of blood oxygen levels and lactic acid levels before, during, and after the intensive training session. Measurements were made using a pulse oximeter and a lactic acid meter to obtain accurate data. Data were analyzed using the statistical approach of analysis of variance (ANOVA) to assess differences between the three groups.
The results showed a significant difference between the sport massage and cupping groups compared to the control group, with Sig. < 0.05. The mean increase in oxygen levels was higher in the sport massage and cupping groups (F = 5.42, Sig. = 0.008) than in the control, indicating the effectiveness of both methods in increasing post-exercise oxygen levels. For lactic acid, there was a significant decrease in the sport massage and cupping groups (F = 4.82, Sig. = 0.013), with a greater average decrease compared to the control. These findings suggest that both recovery methods are effective in accelerating athletes’ physical recovery after intensive training.
Key words
sport massage, cupping, oxygen level, lactic acid, volleyball athletes
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Effectiveness of game-based activity on postural sway and balance among elderly population

Vignesh V, Rajeswari Muthusamy, Sivakumar Ramachandran

Vignesh V, Rajeswari Muthusamy, Sivakumar Ramachandran – Effectiveness of game-based activity on postural sway and balance among elderly population –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 40-47

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007DO16E

Abstract
Introduction. Balance decreases with age, and factors influencing balance can increase postural sway and displace the center of pressure. Reduced physical activity is a significant problem that contributes to impaired balance and an increased risk of falling in the elderly population. Routine exercise programs are often challenging in improving balance, whereas game-based activity can be more engaging and motivating for older adults. Game-based training using the Balance Postural Sway System (BPSS) was applied in this study to reduce postural sway and therapeutically improve balance.
Methods. This interventional study was conducted on 51 elderly adults who met the inclusion criteria. The intervention group (n = 26) underwent game-based activity with BPSS, while the control group (n = 25) received conventional balance training. The BPSS parameters used included the center of foot pressure X index (COFPXI) and Y index (COFPYI), which indicate the center of foot pressure with lateral sway and anterior-posterior sway, respectively. The left and right toe-heel values denote weight distribution between the toe and heel. The outcome measures used were the Fall Efficacy Scale International (FES-I) and the Berg Balance Scale (BBS).
Results. The paired t-test showed a significant difference in all BPSS parameters—COFPXI, COFPYI, right toe, BBS, and FES-I—except for the left toe-heel in the intervention group. In contrast, the conventional group showed a significant difference only in BPSS COFPYI, FES-I, and BBS (p < 0.05). The unpaired t-test demonstrated that the intervention group showed significantly greater improvements in all balance parameters of BPSS and FES-I (p < 0.05) than the conventional group, except for BBS.
Conclusion. Game-based activity with BPSS has been shown to reduce postural sway, improve pressure distribution on the foot, enhance balance, and decrease the risk of falls in the elderly population. The results suggest that incorporating such game-based activities into routine exercise programs for older adults can effectively improve balance and reduce fall risk.
Key words
balance, Balance Postural Sway System, elderly, fall risk, postural sway
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Effects of circuit training method on endurance and arm power in table tennis players

Gilang Briliananda, Tomoliyus, Agung Nugroho

Gilang Briliananda, Tomoliyus, Agung Nugroho – Effects of circuit training method on endurance and arm power in table tennis players –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 34-39

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007DYM1Q

Abstract
Endurance and arm power are essential physical components for an athlete’s success in competition and training. However, traditional training programs often fail to effectively address both components simultaneously. The aim of this study is to determine the impact of training using the circuit method on enhancing endurance and arm power. This study is experimental research utilizing a one-group pretest-posttest design. The participants were twenty junior male athletes aged 15 to 17 years. The training program was conducted three times a week over six weeks and included eight different exercises. The instruments used were a table tennis arm power measurement tool and a beep test to assess aerobic endurance. Data were analyzed using a paired sample t-test. The results of the data normality test showed a significance value (Sig.) greater than 0.05, indicating that the data were normally distributed and suitable for further analysis. Further testing for the effectiveness of the training program using a paired sample t-test showed a significant increase: both endurance and arm power reached a p-value of 0.000. The findings showed that circuit training, involving eight types of exercises, significantly improved athletes’ endurance and arm power. Specifically, there was a significant average increase in endurance and arm power after following the training program. These results underscore the potential benefits of using a circuit training method with eight different exercises to improve the performance of table tennis athletes.
Key words
endurance, arm power, table tennis, circuit training
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