Earticle

Purpose: In this study, we investigated group characteristics such as purpose, motivation, and perceived health status of adults who participated in exercise across various periods and also describe exercise guidance strategies to improve exercise participation and adherence based on the results of the survey and findings of previous studies. Methods: The study included 69 participants who underwent short- or long-term exercise. Participants were provided a mixed questionnaire containing optional questions regarding the purpose of exercise participation and descriptive questions regarding their motivation for exercise participation. Perceived health status was measured using a General Health Questionnaire. Results: Participants indicated muscle training (37.5%) and physical strength improvement (30.15%) as the main purpose of exercise, and the instructor (26.74%), self-realization (24.42%), and educational environment (13.95%) as motivators for exercise. Perceived health status severity and exercise persistence showed a negative correlation (R=-0.27) in contrast to exercise time per day (R=0.14) and the number of exercise sessions per week (R=0.07). Conclusion: Similar to the findings of previous studies, our study highlights that in contrast to external factors, exercise motivation for adherence should focus on improved intrinsic factors such as encouragement during exercise coaching and that gentle guidance methods including goal setting should be used to improve exercise persistence.

Purpose: We investigated the effects of the hold-relax and foam roller techniques on the range of motion, flexibility, and tone of shortened hamstring muscles. Method: The study included 24 participants who were randomly categorized into hold-relax and foam roller groups. Both groups performed the assigned task thrice a week for a total of 5 sets of 15 s each on the hamstring muscles for 6 weeks. Range of motion was evaluated using a goniometer, flexibility was evaluated using the sit and reach test, and muscle tone was measured using a myotone. We evaluated joint range of motion, flexibility, and muscle tone pre- and 6 weeks post intervention in both groups. Results: We observed a significant intergroup difference in range of motion and flexibility after 6-week training. Conclusion: The hold-relax technique was more effective than the foam roller technique for stretching exercise to improve range of motion and flexibility of shortened hamstring muscles.

Purpose: In this study, we investigated changes in lung capacity based on cervical and thoracic postures during smartphone use in adults. Methods: The study included 47 residents of Seongnam City (27 women and 20 men). Participants were instructed to perform the task in the normal sitting position without using a smartphone and in the sitting position while performing a two-handed video watching task on a smartphone. An iPhone application (Goniometer Pro) was used to measure the cervical and thoracic flexion angles to quantitatively assess participants’ range of cervical and thoracic flexion, and a spirometer was used to measure the vital capacity (peak expiratory flow [PEF]) and forced expiratory volume in 1 s [FEV1]) in all participants. Results: Cervical and thoracic flexion angles were significantly greater in the sitting position when using a smartphone than in the normal sitting position without using a smartphone (p<0.05). PEF and FEV1 values were significantly lower during sitting while using a smartphone than in the normal sitting position without using a smartphone (p<0.05). Conclusion: Our results suggest that frequent smartphone use while sitting may be a potential risk factor for musculoskeletal disorders and reduced lung function.

Purpose: In this study, we performed a 10-year literature review based on domestic research on the prevention of cardiopulmonary disease and improvement in cardiopulmonary function in community-dwelling elderly individuals. Methods: We searched databases for exercise studies that reported prevention of cardiopulmonary disease and improvement of cardiopulmonary function in community-dwelling elderly individuals between 2012 and 2022. Two independent researchers performed the first review based on the title and abstract of an article and a second review of the text of the article, and the final detailed meeting a total of 10 times over 2 months. To the strategies of each literature, this study focused on the recent 10 years of domestic research; we searched across the DBpia, e-article, Google scholar, KCI, KISS, KYOBO scholar, and RISS databases. Results: Of 12,522 papers identified through the research strategy and literature search, we excluded 6,053 papers; 905 non-duplicated papers or original articles of each researcher were excluded in addition to 3,624 papers that were beyond the scope of this study. Following a thorough literature search, we excluded 1,807 papers and 61 papers in which details regarding intervention and results were unavailable. Finally, 35 papers were excluded from the category of subjects and parts included in overseas journals, and only eight papers were included in this study. Conclusion: This study provides a basis for care-related rehabilitation of older adults to prevent musculoskeletal disorders. Based on mid-to long-term national policies for social rehabilitation care, effective care programs associated with rehabilitation experts should be established in the future.

Purpose: In this study, we investigated state-of-the-art lifelog analysis methods and describe a modeling process for analysis of acceleration data. These data can be easily obtained from smart devices and is useful for patients with visual display terminal (VDT) syndrome, who show specific lifestyle patterns. Methods and Results: We reviewed 23 recent lifelog articles focused on preprocessing, feature extraction, and classification to design a model for analysis of lifestyle patterns associated with VDT syndrome. Based on our review of articles, we recommend using relatively simple statistical indices, including min, max, median variance, and standard deviation, or frequency indices, such as power spectrum analysis for feature extraction. Based on favorable results with large datasets reported by several previous studies, we suggest using a genetic algorithm (GA) for classification. Notably, establishment of an organized human resource system for systematic data collection and management can improve data quality and also learning efficiency. Conclusion: We recommend the use of simple statistical indices and a GA for feature extraction and classification, respectively, to design a model for analysis of lifestyle patterns in patients with VDT syndrome. We also emphasize the importance of establishing an organized human resource system for systematic data collection and management to improve data quality and learning efficiency.

Purpose: In this study, 10 weeks of lower extremity exercise was conducted in rural elderly people, and the effect of exercise between the smart home training group (experimental group) and the group-exercise group (control group) was compared to analyze the effect on muscle strength and depression. Elderly women aged 60 years or older who visited the J clinic located in G-gun, Chungcheong buk-do were included in this study. Methods: The study involved a group-exercise group comprising 10 individuals who exercised once a week at the clinic, and a smart home training group comprising 10 individuals who installed the app and performed smart home training at home. At the initiation of the smart home training group, the participants were provided instruction on the correct exercise posture and guidance on how to use the app. Four exercises were selected, including sitting, knee extension, walking in place, mini squats, and sideways walking. The participants were taught the correct technique, their movements were assessed, and the training proceeded. Before and after the program, 2-m step test, short physical performance battery, strength measurement, Beck Anxiety Inventory, and Beck Depression Inventory tests were conducted. Results: First, the short physical performance battery test showed that balance was significantly higher in the experimental group than in the control group (P<.029). Second, knee extension strength significantly increased in the experimental group compared with that in the control group (P<.001). Third, the results of the 2-m step test showed no significant differences between the experimental and control groups. Fourth, in anxiety and depression tests, there were no significant differences between the experimental and control groups. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that smart home training can improve the strength of the lower limbs in elderly people in rural areas. In addition, considering the significant increase in balance and strength of knee extension, smart home training exercises can be seen as an effective intervention method for preventing falls in the elderly.

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the effects of Polking, a newly designed exercise for muscle strengthening, by observing the differences in muscle activation and plantar pressure between Polking and normal walking. Methods: A crossover study was conducted with 16 young adults, each performing normal walking and Polking along a 10-m path. Muscle activation by EMG of the eight upper and lower limb muscles and plantar pressure were measured before and after exercise and compared between the two walking types. Results: Except for the latissimus dorsi and tibialis anterior muscles, there was a significant increase (P < .01) in all muscles (i.e., anterior deltoid, biceps brachii, and triceps brachii for the upper extremity; gastrocnemius, vastus medialis, and adductor longus for the lower extremity). The average plantar pressure in g/cm² (P = .01) and delta CoF (P = .008) were higher during Polking than during normal walking. Conclusion: This study examined the full-body effects of Polking as a combined aerobic and anaerobic exercise and as a potential gait training method, showing notable increases in muscle activity in the upper and lower extremities.

Purpose: In this study, we investigated the effects of visual feedback-based eccentric pulley training (EPT) on motion speed and pressure pain threshold (PPT) changes in patients with low back pain (LBP). Methods: Participants were randomly categorized into the visual feedback-based EPT (VF-EPT) group, EPT group, and the eccentric training (ET) group with 18 participants in each group. All participants underwent 30 min of training per session, thrice a week for 4 weeks. For evaluation of motion speed, participants underwent assessment of the motion speed of trunk rotation, squat and trunk rotation, single-leg deadlift, and seated lat pull-down motions. The PPT was measured for pain evaluation. Results: All groups showed statistically significant changes in motion speed (p<0.05); however, we observed no significant intergroup differences. PPT was statistically significant in the VF-EPT group (p<0.05), and we observed significant intergroup differences (p<0.05). Conclusion: This study highlights that visual feedback training can effectively improve motion speed and pain control in patients with LBP.

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate whether the use of a massage chair equipped with Golf Mode, specifically developed for golfers, has a positive effect on golfers’ swing performance and physiological changes in the lumbar muscles. Methods: In total, 20 golfers (age: 51.47±14.09 years) with experience ranging from 1 to 40 years participated in this study. Golfers received a 20-min intervention with a massage chair equipped with the Golf Mode, both before and after which their golf swing performance was assessed using a screen golf device. Additionally, muscle contraction thickness during the address posture was observed using wireless ultrasound equipment. After completing all the measurements, the participants were surveyed regarding their satisfaction with the Golf Mode. Results: The findings of this study demonstrated significant improvements in four of 11 golf swing performance-related metrics: total distance (P<.01), carry distance (P<.01), ball speed (P=.01), and club head speed (P=0.03). Additionally, there was a significant decrease in muscle thickness during the address posture, indicating physiological changes in muscle flexibility. The study also revealed high levels of satisfaction among the players with their golf performance after the Golf-Mode massage (score: 4.26±0.56 out of 5). Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that a massage chair equipped with the Golf Mode is effective in improving golf swing distance and has a positive impact on the psychological well-being of players.

In this study, we investigated the effects of whole body vibration (WBV) training on postural balance and gait function in elite inline skaters. The study included 40 elite inline skaters who were randomly assigned to the WBV (N=20) or control (N=20) group. The movement velocity (degrees/s) in the anterior and posterior directions, as well as on the left and right sides for the limit of stability and spatiotemporal gait parameters with passive and active range of motion (ROM) of the ankle joint were recorded. WBV group participants performed WBV exercises in the vertical direction using a vibration device for 5 min, five times a week for 6 weeks. Control group participants performed the same procedure but on a stable surface. Participants who underwent WBV showed a significant increase in the anterior limit of stability (p<0.01). Both groups showed significant improvement in most gait parameters associated with ROM of the ankle joint; however, the WBV group participants showed significantly increased stride length (p<0.01) and left step length (p<0.01). WBV may serve as a potentially useful strategy to improve an individual’s ability to maintain increased anterior momentum and gait functions, which are necessary for improved performance of in-line skaters.

Purpose: In this study, we investigated the effects of lower extremity muscle strengthening using kinesio taping on pain, plantar pressure, and the foot function index (FFI) in patients with plantar fasciitis. Methods: The study included 30 patients who were randomly categorized into the lower extremity muscle strengthening with kinesio taping (experimental group, n=15) and the lower extremity muscle strengthening with sham kinesio taping (control group, n=15). Both groups underwent the intervention for 30 min, 5 days/week, over 4 weeks. The visual analog scale (VAS) score was measured based on pain levels in patients with plantar fasciitis. Plantar pressure was measured using the Gaitview AFA-50 system. The FFI was measured based on the functional performance of the foot. The VAS score, plantar pressure, and FFI were recorded pre- and 4 weeks post intervention. Results: We observed significant intragroup differences. Compared with the control group, the experimental group showed significantly greater improvements in the VAS score, plantar pressure, and FFI, 4 weeks post intervention (p<0.05). Conclusion: We observed definitive effects of lower extremity muscle strengthening using kinesio taping on pain, plantar pressure, and FFI in patients with plantar fasciitis.

Purpose: In this study, we investigated the effects of a cognitive training program on cognitive function, depression, anxiety, and activities of daily living in patients with stroke. Methods: The study included 64 patients with stroke, who were admitted to a hospital in M city between January 2019 and April 2021. Patients were randomly selected and assigned to experimental and control groups (n=32 in each group). The experimental group underwent a cognitive training program in addition to conventional physical therapy, whereas the control group received only conventional physical therapy. The analysis of covariance test revealed significant differences. Results: We observed significant intergroup differences in cognitive function, depression, anxiety, and activities of daily living (P<0.05). Conclusion: Cognitive training combined with conventional physical therapy effectively improved physical and mental functions, promoted functional recovery, and improved quality of life in patients with stroke. The intervention used in this study was a clinically valuable scientific and effective method for treatment of patients with stroke. Future large-scale studies are warranted to establish a more systematic and specific training program to definitively evaluate the effects of cognitive therapy in patients with stroke.

Purpose: This study aimed to compare and analyze the changes after applying extracorporeal shock waves (ESWs) and pulsed ultrasound to the thoracolumbar fascia to determine an effective intervention method for increasing the range of motion of the trunk and reducing the pressure threshold. Methods: We selected 22 men and women who voluntarily consented after receiving a detailed explanation of the study. The participants were selected from students attending G University and had back pain or limited trunk mobility. They were randomly selected to receive extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT group; n=11) and pulsed-ultrasound therapy (n=11). The interventions were conducted twice a week for 5 weeks, and trunk-side bending, rotation, and pressure pain thresholds were measured before and after the intervention. Results: When ESWs and pulsed ultrasound were applied to the thoracolumbar fascia, the pressure pain threshold and trunk mobility improved. With respect to changes in trunk mobility, only the range of motion for trunk rotation (P<0.05) increased significantly in the ESWT group; however, both ranges of motion for trunk side bending and rotation (P<0.05) significantly increased in the pulsed-ultrasound group. With respect to pressure pain threshold change, both groups showed a statistically significant increase in pressure pain threshold (P<0.05).Moreover, a statistically greater increase in pressure pain threshold (P<0.000) was observed in the pulsed-ultrasound group than in the ESWT group. Conclusion: Clinically, pulsed ultrasound treatment is more effective for increasing the range of motion and pressure pain threshold during interventions for people with back pain and limited trunk mobility.

Purpose: In this study, we performed motion morphological analysis during rising from the supine to the erect position in patients with stroke. Methods: This study included 75 patients with stroke in whom we used the Van Sant’s classification to analyze patient behavior in a standing position. We performed morphological classification using six patterns in the upper extremities, four patterns in the head and trunk region, and four patterns in the lower extremities and used multiple response frequency analysis. Results: Multiple response frequency analysis showed that push and reach was the most common (69.33%) and symmetrical reach was the least common (2.67%) pattern in the upper extremities. With regard to head-body patterns, rotation-induced symmetrical interruption was the most common (65.33%) and symmetrical (8.00%) was the least common pattern. With regard to lower extremity patterns, asymmetrical squats were the most common (64.00%), followed by symmetrical squats (25.33%). Conclusion: In this study, we developed an effective exercise program and posture training method to cope with falls based on the general appearance of a patient who rises from the supine to the erect position.

Purpose: The prevalence of osteoporosis is 34.9% and 7.4% in women and men, respectively. It is reported in 1 in 5 middle-aged and postmenopausal women in Korea. In osteoporosis, an imbalance between osteoblasts and osteoclasts leads to reduced bone density, resulting in weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures. The T-Score is an index to assess bone density, representing the standard deviation in bone density compared to that of young adults. A T-score of -1.0 or higher is considered normal, -1.0 to -2.5 indicates osteopenia or low bone density, and -2.5 or less indicates osteoporosis. Methods: Patients with a history of femoral or vertebral fractures or osteoporosis, after excluding secondary causes, were eligible for drug therapy. Drug therapy for osteoporosis includes bisphosphonate preparations, female hormone therapy (estrogen), selective estrogen modulators, teriparatide (parathyroid hormone), denosumab, and alendronate. Exercise is widely recommended as it is reported to prevent bone loss, increase bone strength, and mitigate muscle loss, muscle weakness, and balance problems due to aging. Results: Exercise effectively prevents osteoporosis by improving bone density and functions of the muscular and nervous systems. Exercises that apply physical stress to the bone tissue, such as resistance exercises and weight training, are recommended treating osteoporosis. Conclusion: These exercises not only lower the rate of bone density loss but also increase bone density. Therefore, this study aimed to present a theoretical basis for effective management to improve bone density in patients with osteoporosis.