Tag: Praveenkumar R

Enhancing recovery: the impact of foam roller-assisted stabilization exercises on low back pain — a comparative analysis with conventional therapies

Revanth M, Kamalakannan M, Hariharan J, Priyadharshini V, Dinesh S, Priyanga Seemathan, Praveenkumar R

 

Revanth M et al. – Enhancing recovery: the impact of foam roller-assisted stabilization exercises on low back pain — a comparative analysis with conventional therapies –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 369-375

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007DLGP0

Abstract
Background. Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most prevalent musculoskeletal conditions affecting individuals worldwide, often resulting in significant disability and reduced quality of life. As the leading cause of years lost to disability globally, the burden of LBP continues to rise alongside an aging and expanding population. Regular exercise plays a pivotal role in alleviating LBP by enhancing spinal muscle strength, improving flexibility, and optimizing posture. Interferential therapy (IFT), a transcutaneous electrical stimulation modality utilizing medium-frequency currents, is a well-established intervention for musculoskeletal disorders. This study evaluates the effectiveness of stabilization exercises using a foam roller in comparison to conventional exercise in individuals with LBP.
Methods. A total of 82 participants meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria were randomized into two groups: a stabilization exercise group (n = 41) and a conventional exercise group (n = 41). Both groups received IFT alongside their respective exercise protocols. Each intervention session lasted 30 minutes and was administered five times per week for three weeks.
Results. Post-intervention assessments using the Modified Oswestry Disability Index (MODQ) revealed a mean score of 18.8 in the stabilization exercise group compared to 22.93 in the conventional exercise group, with a statistically significant p-value of < 0.0001. These findings demonstrate a superior reduction in pain and disability in the stabilization exercise group.
Conclusion. Stabilization exercises incorporating a foam roller provide enhanced therapeutic benefits for individuals with LBP compared to conventional exercises. The foam roller introduces an unstable surface, challenging participants and promoting greater core activation and postural control.
Key words
foam roller, low back pain, stabilization exercise, interferential therapy (IFT), Modified Oswestry Disability Index (MODQ)
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Examining the relationship between extensor carpi radialis brevis pennation angle and grip strength. A cross-sectional study

Vivek K, Kamalakannan M, Hariharan J, Josyula Snigdha, Praveenkumar R, Priyanga Seemathan

Vivek K, Kamalakannan M, Hariharan J, Josyula Snigdha, Praveenkumar R, Priyanga Seemathan – Examining the relationship between extensor carpi radialis brevis pennation angle and grip strength. A cross-sectional study –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 217-221

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007D2P2D

Abstract
Background. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the relationship between the pennation angle of the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB PA) and grip strength. Additionally, the study explored potential gender differences in ECRB PA and its association with grip strength.
Methods. A total of 155 healthy participants were recruited. Ultrasound imaging was used to measure the ECRB PA, while grip strength was assessed using a Jamar dynamometer. Statistical analysis was conducted to examine the correlation between ECRB PA and grip strength.
Results. ECRB PA and common extensor tendon (CET) thickness correlated significantly with grip strength, showing gender-specific patterns. In males, ECRB PA had a moderate positive correlation with grip strength (r = 0.474), and CET thickness showed a strong correlation (r = 0.714), suggesting that both factors contribute to grip strength. In females, ECRB PA correlated moderately with grip strength (r = 0.585), while CET thickness showed a weak inverse correlation (r = –0.136). These findings suggest that CET thickness may indirectly reflect physiological cross-sectional area (PCSA) and influence grip strength in males, whereas ECRB PA plays a more critical role in females.
Conclusion. This cross-sectional study provides evidence of a correlation between ECRB PA and grip strength in healthy individuals. The findings suggest that individuals with a larger ECRB PA may have reduced grip strength. Furthermore, the observed gender differences in ECRB PA could partially explain variations in grip strength between males and females. Further research is needed to validate these findings in clinical populations with wrist and hand pathologies.
Keywords
ECRB, pennation angle, grip strength, ultrasound imaging, Jamar dynamometer
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Dokładność diagnostyczna i przydatność kliniczna testu podnoszenia piłki lekarskiej (MBLT) w identyfikacji zaangażowania mięśnia prostownika promieniowego krótkiego nadgarstka (ECRB) w bocznym zapaleniu nadkłykcia

Vivek K, Kamalakannan M, Hariharan J, Priyanga Seemathan, Praveenkumar R

 

Vivek K, Kamalakannan M, Hariharan J, Priyanga Seemathan, Praveenkumar R – Diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility of the medicine ball lift test (MBLT) for identifying extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) involvement in lateral epicondylitis –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 192-197

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007DM6NP

Abstract
Background. Lateral epicondylitis, commonly called tennis elbow, is one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions caused by tendinopathy of the common extensor tendon, primarily involving the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB). Although different tests, such as Cozen’s, Mill’s, and Maudsley’s tests, are frequently used, none of them help identify the ECRB, which is the principal muscle involved in LE. This diagnostic accuracy study evaluates the newly developed medicine ball lift test, targeting the ECRB specifically, and its association with traditional diagnostic tests and musculoskeletal ultrasound. The study aims to validate the MBLT and measure its sensitivity, specificity, and ability to isolate ECRB involvement in lateral epicondylitis.
Methods. A prospective validation study involving 110 patients diagnosed with LE. The MBLT was performed on all participants, supplemented with Cozen’s test, Mill’s test, and Maudsley’s test, along with ultrasonographic analysis of musculoskeletal structures, including tendon thickness, echotexture, and other pathologic features. Sensitivity, specificity, and correlation with ultrasound findings were assessed.
Results. The AUC for various tests ranged widely. Cozen’s test showed an AUC of 0.495 (p = 0.948), with a sensitivity of 78.9% and specificity of 80.0%. Maudsley’s test exhibited an AUC of 0.562 (p = 0.460), with a sensitivity of 91.6% and specificity of 80.0%. Musculoskeletal ultrasound measurements for ECRB involvement, particularly tendon thickness, achieved an AUC of 0.739 (p = 0.001), with a sensitivity of 87.4% and specificity of 46.7%. In contrast, other parameters, such as echogenicity (AUC = 0.360, p = 0.054) and fluid presence (AUC = 0.486, p = 0.863), showed weaker correlations with LE diagnosis.
Conclusion. The medicine ball lift test holds promise in diagnosing lateral epicondylitis with specific ECRB involvement. The strong correlation it shows with ultrasonographic findings suggests that it may serve as an adjunct to musculoskeletal ultrasonography in diagnosing LE.
Key words
lateral epicondylitis, Maudsley’s test, medicine ball lift test, Mill’s test, MBLT
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Effects of scapular function training versus plyometric training on pain and functional improvement in students with neck and shoulder pain – randomized controlled trial

Hajira Husna, Kamalakannan M, Hariharan J, Priyanga Seemathan, Praveenkumar R

Hajira Husna, Kamalakannan M, Hariharan J, Priyanga Seemathan, Praveenkumar R
– Effects of scapular function training versus plyometric training on pain and functional improvement in students with neck and shoulder pain – randomized controlled trial –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 108-113

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007DOV14

Abstract
Introduction. Neck and shoulder pain is a common issue among students, often resulting from prolonged poor posture, academic workload, and inadequate ergonomic conditions. Implementing effective intervention strategies is crucial to managing this problem.
Aim. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of scapular function training and plyometric training in reducing pain and improving functionality among students experiencing neck and shoulder pain.
Materials and methods. This study randomly selected 60 individuals who reported neck and shoulder pain. The participants, aged 18–25 years and of both genders, were confirmed to be experiencing neck and shoulder discomfort. Exclusion criteria included a history of severe neck or shoulder injuries, such as cervical disc prolapse or whiplash injury, and uncooperative behavior. A total of 30 individuals were assigned to two equal groups: group A (scapular function training) and group B (plyometric training). Pain and disability outcomes were assessed using the Northwick Park Questionnaire (NPQ), the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), and the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS). The intervention consisted of a four-week exercise program, including three sets per session, 10 repetitions per set, 20 minutes of training per session, and five sessions per week.
Results. Group A had a post-treatment mean NPRS score of 4.2, while group B had a mean score of 4.5. The post-treatment mean NPQ score for group A was 59.6, compared to 58.9 for group B. The average post-treatment SPADI score for group A was 60.24, while for group B, it was slightly lower. The findings suggest that scapular function training was effective in reducing pain and improving functional performance in individuals with neck and shoulder pain.
Conclusion. The study indicates that scapular function training is more effective than plyometric training in reducing pain and enhancing functionality among students experiencing neck and shoulder pain.
Key words
neck pain, plyometric training, scapular function training, shoulder pain
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Effectiveness of jump training along with core neuromuscular training in football players on improving their anterior knee pain, functional performance, and knee valgus using Dartfish software

Praveenkumar R., Kamalakannan M., Hariharan J., Priyadarshini Babu Rajendra Prasad, Lalith Kumar R., Hajira Husna

 

Praveenkumar R. et al – Effectiveness of jump training along with core neuromuscular training in football players on improving their anterior knee pain, functional performance, and knee valgus using Dartfish software –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 19-26

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007DMFP7

Abstract
Introduction. Football players of all ages frequently experience knee pain, which may result from unexpected injuries such as sprains, strains, or contusions. A primary risk factor for knee pain is knee injury. A progressive jump training and core neuromuscular training program with short session durations and program lengths can provide similar benefits for landing skills and functional performance as longer-term, mixed-content training programs.
Aim of the study. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of jump training along with core neuromuscular training in football players in improving anterior knee pain, functional performance, and knee valgus using Dartfish software.
Materials and methods. A study was conducted among football players aged 18 to 25 years who reported anterior knee pain, increased knee valgus, and performance deficits. All participants underwent a jump training program combined with core neuromuscular training and hip posterolateral strengthening exercises for four weeks.
Results. The post-intervention Kujala scale values for the experimental and control groups were 89.36 and 67.60, respectively. The mean post-test values for the cross-over hop test for the experimental and control groups were as follows: for males, the right side measured 265.38 and 209.85, while the left side measured 255.42 and 197.62. For females, the right side measured 223.00 and 208.08, while the left side measured 226.18 and 202.15. The mean post-test values for knee valgus in the experimental and control groups were 8.38 and 7.46 for males and 11.08 and 8.83 for females.
Conclusion. This study concludes that jump training combined with core neuromuscular training significantly improves functional performance and reduces anterior knee pain and knee valgus in football players.
Key words
football, knee valgus, anterior knee pain, functional performance, jump training, core neuromuscular training
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Exploring the long-term impact of PNF interventions on plantar fascitis with restricted dorsiflexion using visual analogue scale and foot and ankle ability measure

Koteeswari Arumugam, Kamalakannan M, Hariharan J, Priyanga Seemathan, Praveenkumar R

Koteeswari Arumugam, Kamalakannan M, Hariharan J, Priyanga Seemathan, Praveenkumar R – Exploring the long-term impact of PNF interventions on plantar fascitis with restricted dorsiflexion using visual analogue scale and foot and ankle ability measure –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(5); 322-327

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG020CRL9V

Abstract Introduction. Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, affecting both active and sedentary individuals. Limited dorsiflexion increases tension, worsening symptoms. Diagnosis involves the Windlass test, and PNF shows promise in treatment, though long-term effects need further study. Aim of the study. This prospective longitudinal study aimed to investigate the long-term effectiveness and maintenance strategies following proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) technique interventions in individuals with plantar fasciitis and limited dorsiflexion which is one of the conditions affecting the community. The primary objectives included quantitatively comparing pain levels, functional mobility, and patient adherence to prescribed strategies over an extended follow-up period. Materials and Methods. A cohort of 120 participants with plantar fasciitis and limited dorsiflexion, previously treated with PNF interventions, were enrolled in the study. Follow-up assessments were conducted at three-month intervals over a one-year period. Pain levels were measured using a visual analog scale (VAS), functional mobility was assessed using the foot and ankle ability measure (FAAM), and patient-reported outcomes were recorded. Qualitative insights into maintenance strategies were obtained through in-depth interviews, covering aspects such as home exercise programs, lifestyle modifications, and adherence to recommendations. Results. Statistical analysis revealed a statistically significant (p < 0.05) reduction in pain levels and improved functional mobility over the study period. Recurrence rates were found lower than baseline, with only 15% of recurrence. Logistic regression analysis identified factors contributing to sustained outcomes, including consistent adherence to prescribed home exercises (p = 0.021) and proactive lifestyle modifications (p = 0.035). Conclusion. The study concluded that PNF techniques effectively reduce pain, improve mobility, and sustain outcomes in plantar fasciitis with limited dorsiflexion, highlighting the importance of adherence to exercises and lifestyle modifications.
Key words limited dorsiflexion, long-term outcomes, plantar fasciitis, hold relax PNF stretching
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