Myofascial Force Transmission Between Latissimus Dorsi and Gluteus Maximus

A study from Brazil investigated whether regular running influences myofascial force transmission (MFT) between the latissimus dorsi (LD), thoracolumbar fascia, and contralateral gluteus maximus (GM), a pathway connecting the shoulder, trunk, and hip. The hypothesis was that runners, due to potential increases in tissue stiffness from regular sports practice, would exhibit greater MFT and altered

Understanding the Fascial System

The concept of fascia has long been a topic of intrigue and debate within both clinical and scientific communities. Despite its growing recognition, the absence of a clear consensus on its definition and significance has led to skepticism about its role in the human body. This ambiguity, compounded by the indiscriminate use of the term

In-Depth Exploration of Cervical Facet Pain

Pain from the cervical facet joints, either due to degenerative conditions or due to whiplash-related trauma, is very common in the general population. A literature review by Helinga et al. published in Pain Practice discusses the diagnosis and treatment of cervical facet-related pain with special emphasis on interventional treatment techniques. Neck pain, a prevalent issue

Structural Differences in Muscles of Long-Term Resistance Trained Individuals Compared to Untrained

Skeletal muscle adaptations to long-term resistance training are typically attributed to increased size of muscle fibers. However, the possibility of changes in the number of muscle fibers and detailed myofibril structures remains less explored. This study aims to investigate these aspects by comparing muscle characteristics between individuals who have been engaged in long-term resistance training

Evaluating the Efficacy of Ischemic Compression Therapy on Cervical Spine Mobility and Headache Characteristics in Migraine Patients

Migraine is a complex neurological condition that not only disrupts daily life but also often comes with painful musculoskeletal complications. Most migraine sufferers—up to 76%—experience neck pain, which may be linked to hypertonic muscles in the neck and shoulders, including the upper trapezius muscle. These muscle issues contribute to the physical discomfort associated with migraines

Understanding and Addressing Muscle Pain

A review published in the Journal of Physiological Sciences reviewedfundamental studies on muscular pain, encompassing the characteristics of primary afferent fibers and neurons, spinal and thalamic projections, several muscular pain models, and possible neurochemical mechanisms of muscle pain. Muscle pain, a common yet understudied phenomenon, affects a significant portion of the population, particularly those experiencing

Understanding the Lived Experience of People with Fibromyalgia through Social Media

Fibromyalgia, characterized by chronic widespread pain, fatigue, and a plethora of other sensory and emotional symptoms, affects a significant portion of the global population. This condition is primarily associated with nociplastic pain, where pain perception is altered without clear physical damage. Recent studies have highlighted the complex nature of fibromyalgia, involving both physiological and psychological

Investigating Thoracolumbar Fascia Shear Strain in Low Back Pain

Thoracolumbar fascia (TLF), a key spinal stabilizing structure, may hold answers to nonspecific low back pain (NSLBP). The TLF plays a critical role in movement and force transmission across the spine. Alterations in its structure or mechanics, such as changes in shear strain, could irritate nerve endings and contribute to NSLBP. A clinical study from

Foam Rolling: Enhancing Flexibility and Range of Motion in Athletes

Maintaining and improving flexibility is essential for preventing injuries and enhancing athletic performance. The ankle’s range of motion (ROM) is especially critical for basic movements like walking, running, and jumping. Restricted dorsiflexion, for instance, can alter landing mechanics and increase the risk of lower-extremity injuries. Additionally, reduced ankle ROM adversely affects balance and posture, influencing

The Role of Visual Target Distance in Postural Stability: Insights for Therapists

Postural stability, a critical component of balance, is regulated by the central nervous system through interactions with peripheral sensory receptors, including visual, vestibular, stomatognathic, and somatosensory systems. Among these, the visual system plays a dominant role in maintaining balance during both static and dynamic conditions. Visual fixations, which enable the eyes to focus on a