https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/ Journal for Research in Sport Rehabilitation en daily 1 Sat, 23 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0330 Sat, 23 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0330 https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6420.html Introduction and Objective: Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a common condition that significantly affects the quality of life and functional ability of individuals. Traditional rehabilitation methods often have variable results, which has led to the search for alternative treatments, such as deep water exercises. This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of deep water exercises as a therapeutic intervention for people suffering from chronic low back pain. Methods: A comprehensive search of the scientific literature was conducted in several databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Scopus, focusing on randomized controlled trials and observational studies published in the past decade. Studies that evaluated the effect of deep water exercises on pain levels, functional capacity, and quality of life in adults with CLBP were included. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by two reviewers. Results: A total of 15 studies met the inclusion criteria, which included a diverse sample of participants with varying degrees of chronic low back pain. Findings consistently showed that deep water exercises significantly reduced pain intensity and improved functional outcomes compared to control groups. Specifically, participants reported increased mobility and decreased pain-related disability. Interventions varied in duration and frequency, with most studies recommending 30- to 60-minute sessions, 2 to 3 times per week. Conclusion: Deep water exercises are a promising intervention for the management of chronic low back pain, demonstrating significant benefits in reducing pain and improving function. These findings support the inclusion of aquatic therapies in rehabilitation programs for CLBP. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6514.html Background and Aim: The purpose of the present study was to review studies related to the effect of sitting with legs crossed on rotation and range of motion of the waist, pelvis, and thigh.Methods: To conduct this study, to access studies conducted in the field of sitting with legs crossed and limitations of the range of motion of the lower back and pelvis, a search was conducted in the search engines Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, PEDro, and MedLib by entering the keywords Leg Crossed, Hip and thigh range of motion, Hip rotation. In the internal databases Magiran, Irandoc, IranMedex, MedLib, and SID, the keywords legs crossed, range of motion of the pelvis, thigh and waist were also entered. A time filter with the period September 2000-2024 was applied to all databases. Findings: According to the researcher's search, a total of 10 studies have examined the effect of sitting posture on the range of motion of the hip, pelvis, and lower back. Most studies indicate that this type of sitting leads to postural misalignment and increased external rotation of the hip and lumbar spine. Various variables, including measurement tools, sample size, and age range of subjects, have led to different results in the studies. Also, limited studies have reported the effect of this type of sitting on back pain.Conclusion: The studies indicate a significant relationship between sitting cross-legged and its effects on lower-limb and back kinematics. It seems that the shortening of the hamstring and tensor fasciata muscles leads to impaired range of motion of the thigh and back. In addition, the effect of this type of sitting on back pain has been reported, but the studies reporting back pain are very limited, which requires the design of more prospective studies to make more accurate and better conclusions. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6419.html Background and Aim: Chronic ankle instability in soccer athletes can lead to decreased balance control during play, ultimately leading to ankle sprains and subsequent exclusion from the sports field. Dynamic taping is a conservative intervention that can improve ankle stability and balance control. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the immediate effect of dynamic taping on balance in soccer players with chronic ankle instability.Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, 30 male soccer players with ankle instability who met the eligibility criteria were enrolled. Dynamic balance was assessed with the Y-test in two stages before and after taping. A repeated measures ANOVA test was used to compare the results between the two stages, before and after taping.Results: Statistical data analysis showed that after the application of dynamic typing, balance control in the anterior (P = 0.001, ES = 0.893), posterior-medial (P = 0.001, ES = 0.889), and posterior-lateral (P = 0.001, ES = 0.895) directions significantly improved.Conclusion: The use of dynamic typing can be effective in maintaining dynamic balance in athletes with chronic ankle instability by improving proprioceptive impulses and controlling lower limb mechanics. Therefore, it is recommended that coaches and sports medicine specialists use dynamic typing to prevent ankle sprains and improve performance in players with chronic ankle instability.Method: In this quasi-experimental study, 30 male soccer players with ankle instability who met the eligibility criteria were enrolled. Dynamic balance was assessed with the Y-test in two stages before and after taping. Repeated measures ANOVA test was used to compare the results between the two stages before and after taping.Results: Statistical data analysis showed that after the application of dynamic typing, balance control in the anterior (P= 0.001, ES= 0.893), posterior-medial (P= 0.001, ES= 0.889), and posterior-lateral (P= 0.001, ES= 0.895) directions significantly improved.Conclusion: The use of dynamic typing can be effective in maintaining dynamic balance in athletes with chronic ankle instability by improving proprioceptive impulses and controlling lower limb mechanics. Therefore, it is recommended that coaches and sports medicine specialists use dynamic typing to prevent ankle sprains and improve performance in players with chronic ankle instability. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6470.html Background: The effect of 6 weeks of core stability exercises on trunk endurance, upper limb performance and balance of Sports in Zurkhaneh sports athletes. Materials and Methods: In order to conduct this study, 30 male athletes were selected as available and were randomly divided into two control groups and training groups. In this study, trunk endurance was determined by McGill tests, as well as static and dynamic balance by Stork and Y tests, respectively, and upper limb function was evaluated by upper limb Y test. After evaluating the variables, exercises were performed by the exercise group for 6 weeks. During this period, the subjects of the control group did their daily and sports activities. After the end of 6 weeks, the subjects were evaluated again. Checking the normality of data in two groups was done by Shapiro-Wilk test. Also, for inferential analysis of data and expression of possible differences between the means of groups in different stages of the research, the statistical method of analysis of covariance and paired t-test were used. Results: Also, the results of inter-group comparison showed that there is a significant difference between the two groups in the variables of trunk endurance (p=0.001), upper limb function (p=0.001), static balance (p=0.001) and dynamic balance (p=0.001). Conclusion: the results of the present study show the effect of core stability exercises on increasing trunk endurance and improving upper limb performance, static balance, and dynamic balance of male Zurkhaneh sports athletes. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6421.html Background: Proprioception exercises and elastic band exercises may have different effects on the craniovertebral angle and proprioception impairment. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the effects of six-week proprioceptive and elastic band exercises on craniovertebral angle and proprioception in people with forward head posture and chronic non-specific neck pain. Methods: Forty-two women (15) and men (27), aged 25-50 years, with forward head posture and chronic non-specific neck pain, who were selected based on the study's inclusion and exclusion criteria, were randomly divided into three groups: the proprioception exercise group, the elastic band exercise group, and the control group. The exercises were performed for six weeks (five sessions per week). The craniovertebral angle was measured by photogrammetry and proprioception with the cervical joint position error test. Results: The craniovertebral angle in the proprioception and elastic band exercise groups increased significantly compared to the control group (p<0.05), and there was no significant difference between the proprioception and elastic band exercise groups (p>0.05). Proprioception error decreased significantly only in the proprioception exercise group compared to the control group (p<0.05), and the difference between the elastic band exercise group and the control group and the difference between the proprioception and elastic band exercise groups was not significant (p>0.05). Conclusion: While proprioceptive exercises and elastic band exercises effectively correct forward head posture by increasing the craniovertebral angle, improvements in proprioception are observed only after proprioceptive training. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6190.html One of the effective factors in preventing the elderly from falling was maintaining and treating balance problems. The reason aimed to investigate the effect of 8 weeks of balance training and its durability on the strategy of balance recovery in the elderly with a risk of falling. Among the 200 elderly people of Kahrizak in Alborz province. The age range between 60 to 75 years, 60 people were purposefully divided into 2 groups, control and experimental, based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. for measuring balance, posture control, and proprioceptive accuracy of ankle and knee joints we used the Berg Balance test, stand-up, and move balance test, single leg test, and digital photography and Auto CAD software respectively. For comparison of the mean data the pre-test and post test, a combined analysis of variance test was used. It was considered a significant level of 95%. The multivariate covariance analysis test and the effects of paired sample test on the post-test scores of balance variables, posture control, and proprioception showed that there is a significant difference between the experimental and control groups)P< 0.05(. The results showed that performing 8 weeks of balance exercises in the elderly can improve posture control, balance, and Increasing accuracy of proprioception in the joints of the lower limb and significantly improve the ability to control the posture of people, and after applying the exercises, despite the relative decrease in Predominance of thigh strategy to restore balance (thigh joint oscillations)/(wrist joint oscillations), these changes had a significant https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6423.html Background and Aim: Despite the significant role of jumping, changing direction, and landing in ankle sprain occurrences, previous studies have not investigated asymmetries in these tasks among professional soccer players with and without chronic ankle instability (CAI). Furthermore, the relationships between different types of asymmetries remain unknown. This study aimed to compare asymmetries in the aforementioned movements and analyze their interrelationships in professional players with and without CAI.Methods: Seventy professional male soccer players (32 with CAI and 38 without CAI) completed single-leg triple hop (SLTH), modified 505 change-of-direction (Mod505), and single-leg drop landing (SLDL) tests. Based on normality test results, between-group asymmetry comparisons were conducted using independent t-tests (normal data) or Mann-Whitney U tests (non-normal data). Correlational analyses were performed using Pearson’s coefficient (normal data) or Spearman’s rank (non-normal data).Results: Results revealed that players with CAI exhibited significantly greater asymmetries in SLTH, Mod505, and SLDL performance compared to healthy controls (P < 0.05). Furthermore, correlational analyses across CAI players, healthy players, and the entire cohort revealed no statistically significant relationships between different types of movement asymmetry (P > 0.05).Conclusion: The findings indicate that CAI players exhibit greater movement asymmetries; however, no interdependence exists between the types of asymmetry. This highlights the importance of task-specific rehabilitation, as well as multidimensional and task-oriented assessments, in this population. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_5921.html Background and Aim: The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of vestibular disturbances on lower limb joint angles during walking in healthy active children.Methods:  The present study was conducted on 30 boys aged 7 to 11 years in Tehran who were selected for the study using convenience sampling. The subjects walked a 12-meter path in the laboratory under four different sensory conditions (walking with eyes open, walking with eyes closed, walking with eyes open with vestibular disturbance, and walking with eyes closed with vestibular disturbance). The angles of the hip, thigh, knee, and ankle joints were recorded and extracted using Vicon cameras and marker placement. Data analysis was performed using repeated measures analysis of variance with a significance level of (p≤0.05).Results: The results of the study showed that a significant effect was observed in the ankle joints (sagittal P=0.001, frontal P=0.000, horizontal P=0.000), knee (sagittal P=0.043, frontal P=0.002, horizontal P=0.000), thigh (sagittal P=0.000, frontal P=0.000, horizontal P=0.000), and hip (sagittal P=0.000, frontal P=0.047, horizontal P=0.000).Conclusion: The results obtained can consider the necessity of paying attention to strengthening the vestibular sense in children who are more likely to face fewer risks. Therefore, it can be concluded that vestibular disturbances can change the range of motion by changing the angles of the joints and the walking pattern, which is an indication of the compensatory mechanism of maintaining balance. Ultimately, changes in the range of motion, which is a risk factor in imbalance, can lead to injury. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6426.html Background and Aim: Proprioception is a critical component of the body’s sensorimotor system, and its impairment can predispose individuals to injuries. This study aimed to investigate the acute effects of massage on shoulder joint proprioception in active swimmers at sequential time points following functional fatigue protocols.Methods: Twenty-four active swimmers were randomly assigned to either the experimental or control group. After performing a functional fatigue protocol, shoulder joint proprioception was assessed using a camera and analyzed with AutoCAD software to measure the mean absolute error (MAE) in angle reproduction (40° and 80°). Immediately following this, the experimental group received a massage protocol, and proprioception was re-evaluated at regular intervals. A mixed-repeated-measures analysis of variance was employed for statistical analysis, with a significance level set at p ≤ 0.05.Results: Results indicated that following the fatigue protocol, the mean error in reproducing the 40° shoulder joint angle increased in both the experimental and control groups (p = 0.001). Similarly, for the 80° angle, the mean error increased in both groups (p = 0.002). After the massage protocol, the mean error for the 40° angle decreased in the experimental group (p = 0.41), though this change was not significant. No significant changes in proprioception were observed across subsequent time points after the massage (p ≥ 0.05).Conclusion: This study suggests that massage does not significantly improve shoulder joint proprioception following functional fatigue in swimmers, despite an immediate reduction in MAE. However, extending the duration or increasing the intensity and depth of the massage may enhance the significance of these findings, warranting further investigation. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6424.html Background and Aim: Successful performance in wheelchair basketball requires the strength of the shoulder muscles, anaerobic power, and proper body composition. However, no study has compared these characteristics in different positions of players in wheelchair basketball (WB). This study aimed to compare the body composition, isokinetic strength, and anaerobic power components among the forwards and guards. Methods: The study participants comprised 14 adult Iranian national wheelchair basketball team players, who were split into two groups of seven players each: guards and forwards. This research included evaluations involving the measurement of body composition, anaerobic power, and isokinetic power of the upper limbs, specifically the shoulder and elbow joints. The differences between groups were investigated using an independent t-test, conducted at a significance threshold of P<0.05. Statistical analysis was carried out with the use of SPSS 26 software. Results: The findings showed that there were no significant differences in the variables of fat-free mas and fat mass between the forwards and guards. However, the forwards had a higher mean fat-free mass and a lower fat mass. Also, no significant difference was observed in the peak power and power drop (anaerobic component) of the players. In terms of peak torque, no substantial differences were found between forwards and guards in rotator muscles of the shoulder and elbow flexor and extensor muscles; nevertheless, guards exhibited greater means in all strength-related components compared to forwards. Conclusion: The study found that the physical attributes and physiological demands of wheelchair basketball players are primarily determined by the playing environment and the type of impairment the player has, rather than by the specific skills required for each position. Therefore, future research should focus on comparing classes with players with mild to severe disabilities. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6422.html Background and Aim: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, progressive disease that damages the myelin of the central nervous system.Methods: In this semi-experimental study, participants were assigned to three groups: control, suit therapy, and no suit therapy. The control group received only pharmacological treatments, while the suit therapy and no suit therapy groups performed Frenkel exercises in addition to their drug therapy. The exercise sessions were held three times a week, each lasting one hour, for eight weeks. Walking speed and gait pattern were assessed using the 25-foot walk test and the Tinetti test. A one-way analysis of variance was used to compare pre-test and post-test data, with a significance level of p < 0.05.Results: The results showed a significant improvement in walking speed in the no-suit therapy group compared to the control group, and in the suit therapy group compared to the control group. Furthermore, the suit therapy group showed a significant improvement in walking speed compared to the no suit therapy group. Regarding gait pattern, the no-suit therapy group showed a significant improvement compared to the control group, and the suit therapy group showed a significant improvement compared to the control group. Additionally, the suit therapy group showed a significant improvement in gait pattern compared to the no suit therapy group.Conclusion: Conclusion: The results suggest that Frenkel exercises positively affect walking speed and gait pattern in MS patients. It is recommended that Frenkel exercises be performed with a suit therapy. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_5861.html Background and Aim: Among shoulder injuries, shoulder impingement syndrome is known as the most common injury, and it causes pain and limits the shoulder’s function. The aim of this research was to study the effect of 8 weeks of slide board exercises on pain, shoulder joint function, and quality of life in male swimmers with shoulder impingement syndrome.Methods: The current research is semi-experimental and applied. The statistical population of this research includes male swimmers with shoulder impingement syndrome (male swimmers in the age range of 19 to 31 years). Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, samples from the research, 30 eligible athletes were selected purposefully and randomly divided into two groups: of slide board exercise group (15 people) and a control group (15 people). Before and after the training period, motor performance, pain, balance, muscle strength, ROM of the shoulder joint, and the level of quality of life the subjects were measured respectively by CKCUEST for upper limb, VAS, the sit-to-stand Y balance test, digital dynamometer, and goniometer. and the SF-36 quality of life questionnaire was evaluated. Subjects of the experimental group performed slide board exercises for eight weeks, three sessions a week, each session lasting 30 -50 minutes. ANOVA for repeated measures was used for data analysis(P<0.05).Results: The research results showed that slide board exercises on pain (P≤0.05), functional stability of the shoulder joint (P≤0.05), upper limb function (P≤0.05), internal (P≤0.05) and external rotator (P≤0.05) arm strength muscle, ROM of internal(P≤0.05) and external (P≤0.05) rotation of arm and quality of life (P≤0.05) had a significant effect.Conclusion: Based on the effect of slide board exercises on the measured variables, the use of these exercises in the rehabilitation of patients with shoulder impingement syndrome is suggested in the mentioned factors. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_5376.html Background and Aim: Elite soccer players face significant physical pressures during training and competition to achieve their optimal performance level. These pressures consist of internal and external loads, each of which can contribute to injuries and a decrease in the athlete's performance. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the possibility of predicting injuries in elite football players associated with internal and external training loads and competition. Methods: This study is a prospective, descriptive cohort study. Data related to 41 players active in the Iranian Premier League in the 1400-1401 season were gathered in a targeted and accessible manner. Data on internal load were collected using the perceived pressure scale, and data on external load were collected by registering GPS data. Logistic regression was used to predict the occurrence of injuries using statistical methods. Results: The results showed that the variables of maximum speed, total distance, duration, acceleration zone 3, deceleration in zone 1, and work rate intervals can predict injury (p<0.05). However, variables such as average speed, deceleration in zone 3, repeated sprints, sprint maximum acceleration, and RPE cannot predict injury (p>0.05). Conclusion: According to the results, it can be concluded that predicting injuries in football players should not rely on a single factor. Instead, various aspects of injury occurrences should be considered, such as maximum speed, total distance, acceleration increase and decrease, and workload volume during training and competition. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6425.html Background and Aim: Injuries during walking are a significant challenge that affects the health and lifestyle of the elderly population. This study aimed to investigate and compare the biomechanical parameters of gait in healthy and injury-prone elderly individuals. Methods: First, gait analysis was conducted to examine kinematic data from 24 elderly participants, divided into two groups: healthy and injury-prone. Reflective markers were attached to the lower limbs, and participants were asked to walk on a treadmill at their normal walking speed. Using a motion capture camera, marker coordinates were recorded and presented as a function of time. Subsequently, both static and dynamic data of the participants were obtained through data processing. Results: The results showed that step length during walking in injury-prone elderly individuals was approximately 12% shorter than that of the healthy group, indicating a statistically significant difference. Walking speed was also higher in the healthy group compared to the injury-prone group (P=0.048). Gait symmetry was greater in the healthy group as well, though the difference was marginally significant (P=0.069). Conclusion: This study demonstrated notable differences in the spatiotemporal gait factors between healthy and injury-prone elderly individuals. Analyzing and comparing these factors highlights the impact of injury risk on gait patterns in the elderly population. These findings carry important implications for the diagnosis, treatment, and management of injuries in the aging community. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6427.html Background and Aim: Aging can have negative physical and psychological consequences. The study's aim was to examine the effects of Pilates and Yoga exercises on muscular strength, fall self-efficacy, and working memory of rehabilitation center-dwelling older women with mild cognitive impairment.Methods: From rehabilitation centers-dwelling, older women with mild cognitive impairment in Tabriz city, 34 participants were selected conveniently and divided into two experimental Pilates (n=17) and Yoga (n=17), randomly. Subjects, in the pre-test, performed the 30-second chair stand test, Wechsler Digit Span Test, and Falls Efficacy Scale-International. Both groups participated in the exercise for 24 sessions (6 weeks, 3 60-minute sessions per week). Forty-eight hours after the last training session, a post-test similar to the pre-test was administered. Data were analyzed using Mixed ANOVA and Independent Samples T-Test, using SPSS-27 software.Results: A Significant differences observed between the mean pre-test and post-test scores for lower limb strength (p<0.001, η² = 0.734), fear of falling (p˂0.001 and η² = 0.708) and working memory (p<0.001, η² = 0.411) but no significant difference was found between the mean scores of the two groups (Pilate vs Yoga) in lower extremity strength (p = 0.369, η² = 0.029), fear of falling (p = 0.114, η² = 0.087), and working memory (p = 0.189, η² = 0.061).Conclusion: Based on the findings, the use of both Yoga and Pilates is recommended for enhancing lower extremity muscle strength, working memory, and fall self-efficacy in elderly women with mild cognitive impairment. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6452.html Background and Aim: Self-myofascial release is a contemporary method aimed at alleviating complications associated with myofascial trigger points. Trigger points can significantly impact muscle function and overall well-being. However, existing literature has not established a cohesive protocol for this type of myofascial release. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a newly introduced self-myofascial release protocol in mitigating complications caused by trigger points.Methods: In this semi-experimental study, 15 women aged 20 to 30 years with trapezius trigger points were recruited according to specific inclusion criteria. Initially, assessments were conducted to measure the range of motion in the neck and shoulder using a goniometer. Pain levels were evaluated through the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and the functional quality of the hand and shoulder was assessed using the DASH questionnaire. Participants underwent five sessions of the self-myofascial release intervention, after which post-test measurements were taken. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26 software and paired t-tests.Results: The paired T-test results indicated no significant impact of the intervention on neck motion indices, including flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation (P=0.000). Conversely, significant improvements were observed in shoulder motion indices, including abduction, flexion, internal and external rotation, as well as in pain levels assessed by VAS and functional quality measured by DASH (P<0.005).Conclusion: The findings suggest that the foam rolling protocol can effectively reduce complications from trigger points in the shoulder region. However, its impact on the cervical region appears limited, indicating a need for alternative interventions in these areas. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6725.html Background and Objective: Ankle sprain is one of the most common sports-related injuries and is often accompanied by residual symptoms such as pain, impaired proprioception, neuromuscular control deficits, and an increased risk of re-injury, potentially leading to chronic ankle instability. Given the critical role of the core region in providing a stable base for lower limb function and motor control, reduced core endurance may further contribute to ankle instability. This study aimed to investigate the effects of neuromuscular training combined with cognitive dual-task interventions on pain, ankle dorsiflexion range of motion, and core endurance in female athletes with chronic ankle instability.Methods: This randomized clinical trial was conducted on 36 female athletes from Shiraz, with at least three years of regular participation in basketball or volleyball. Participants were randomly assigned to either a neuromuscular training group without cognitive tasks (n=18) or a neuromuscular training group combined with cognitive tasks (n =18). Both groups participated in a six-week training program, consisting of five sessions per week. Pain was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), ankle dorsiflexion range of motion was measured using an isokinetic dynamometer, and core endurance was evaluated using the McGill test battery. Paired t-tests were used to assess within-group differences, and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to compare between-group changes. The significance level was set at P<0.05.Results: Paired t-test results indicated that both groups showed significant improvements in pain, ankle dorsiflexion range of motion, and core endurance compared to pre-test values (P<0.05). ANCOVA results revealed a significant between-group difference in pain (P<0.05), favoring the cognitive dual-task group. However, no significant between-group differences were observed for dorsiflexion range of motion or core endurance (P>0.05).Conclusion: The addition of cognitive tasks to neuromuscular training appears to be more effective in reducing pain in athletes with chronic ankle instability. However, this combined intervention did not demonstrate a significant advantage over neuromuscular training alone in improving dorsiflexion range of motion or core endurance. Therefore, incorporating cognitive tasks may be recommended as a complementary strategy for pain management in rehabilitation programs for this population. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6726.html Introduction Pre-activation potentiation (PAP) has been widely studied as a method to acutely enhance neuromuscular performance, particularly through heavy resistance exercises using external loads. However, limited research exists on inducing PAP using only body weight exercises, especially in the context of landing biomechanics. In basketball, single-leg landing is a common movement associated with high injury risk, particularly to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), due to excessive knee valgus and rapid eccentric loading. Proper pre-activation strategies may optimize neuromuscular control, reduce injury risk, and improve movement efficiency. Despite the widespread use of PAP in elite athletes, most studies have focused on resistance exercises with external loads, leaving a gap in understanding how body weight-based PAP protocols affect landing mechanics in semi-professional athletes. Furthermore, single-leg landing requires precise control of knee flexion, valgus angles, and angular velocity during eccentric phases, making it a critical functional task to evaluate. This study aims to examine the effect of a body weight-based PAP protocol, specifically squat exercises, on knee kinematics during single-leg landing in male semi-professional basketball players. The investigation addresses the gap in research regarding body weight-induced PAP and its potential to improve knee control and reduce injury risk in commonly performed sport-specific movements. By exploring changes in maximal knee flexion, knee valgus, and angular velocity during eccentric landing, this study provides evidence on the effectiveness of body weight PAP for both performance enhancement and injury prevention. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6727.html Background and aim: Ankle sprain is one of the most common lower extremity injuries and can lead to functional ankle instability (FAI). This condition is associated with proprioceptive deficits, reduced muscle strength, and impaired balance. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) exercises on improving ankle proprioception in athletes with functional ankle instability. Methods: Fifty athletes with functional ankle instability were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. Ankle proprioception in inversion and eversion was assessed using a specialized ankle goniometer, while dorsiflexion and plantarflexion proprioception were measured through active angle reproduction using imaging techniques and AutoCAD software. The experimental group performed DNS exercises for six weeks (three sessions per week), focusing on core muscle activation and neuromuscular coordination. The control group did not participate in any comparable intervention. Data were analyzed using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) in SPSS version 26. Results: The findings demonstrated that DNS exercises significantly reduced angle reproduction error in dorsiflexion, plantarflexion, inversion, and eversion in the experimental group compared with the control group (p < 0.05). These exercises improved neuromuscular coordination and efficiency, thereby enhancing ankle joint proprioception. Conclusion: DNS exercises, by increasing the activation of stabilizing muscles and promoting optimal alignment within the kinetic chain, play an effective role in improving proprioception and reducing functional ankle instability. These exercises can be recommended as part of rehabilitation programs for athletes with this condition. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6728.html Introduction: Delay in the onset of muscle activation is one of the common problems in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy, which leads to motor incoordination and reduced quality of movement execution. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of virtual reality training on muscle activation timing in children with hemiplegia. Methods: This quasi-experimental study employed a pre-test/post-test design with a control group. Twenty boys with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (aged 7–12 years) were recruited using convenience sampling and randomly assigned to experimental (n = 10) and control (n = 10) groups. The experimental group participated in virtual reality-based bowling exercises using Xbox Kinect for four weeks (three 60-minute sessions per week), while the control group continued their conventional therapy. Data were analyzed using ANCOVA at a significance level of 0.05. Results: A significant difference was observed between the groups in muscle activation onset (F = 123.73, p = 0.001). The experimental group showed a reduction from 261.8 ± 10.77 ms to 131.9 ± 13.19 ms, whereas the control group showed a smaller reduction (266.6 ± 30.94 ms to 195.40 ± 37.88 ms). The effect size was large (η² = 0.91). Conclusion: Virtual reality training using Kinect-based games may improve muscle activation timing in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy. This improvement may reflect enhanced neuromuscular coordination and more efficient motor processing. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6729.html Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the effects of eight weeks of electromyostimulation (EMS) training and core stability exercises on motor performance in female futsal players. Methods: 36 female futsal athletes with an age range of 16–30 years constituted the participants. These players were selected purposively and randomly assigned to two experimental groups (EMS and core stability) and one control group. In the pre-test, to assess motor performance, a 10-m sprint test, a countermovement jump test, the Illinois agility test, and the RSA test were administered. Then, the EMS and core stability training protocols were separately applied to the experimental groups. After completion of the training protocols, the motor performance variables of all three groups were measured again as post-test data. Pre-test and post-test data for the EMS, core stability, and control groups were collected and analyzed using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). Findings: The results showed that the effect of the pre-test was significant for agility (P=0.021) and repeated sprint ability (P=0.010). Furthermore, according to the results of the Bonferroni post hoc test, the variables of agility (0.65 s improvement) (P=0.028) and repeated sprint ability (1.49 s improvement) (P=0.037) showed a decrease (improvement) in the core stability group compared with the control group. Conclusion: The findings indicated that core stability training can significantly improve the motor performance of futsal players in the components of agility and repeated sprint ability, whereas EMS training alone, without being combined with functional exercises, is not sufficient to enhance multidimensional motor components. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6730.html هدف: جمعیت سالمند در ایران و جهان به سرعت در‌حال افزایش است. شیکی از عوامل تاثیرگذار بر عملکرد شناختی، فعالیت بدنی میباشد. لذا هدف این مطالعه، بررسی سالمندان از نظر سطح فعالیت ‌بدنی، عملکرد شناختی و فاکتورهای موثر بر میزان و شیوع آلزایمر بود. روش: این مطالعه به‌صورت مقطعی روی 384 نفر از سالمندان 60 سال به بالا با روش نمونه‌گیری هدفمند انجام شد. برای سنجش متغیرهای تحقیق از ترازوی آزمایشگاهی و قدسنج و پرسشنامه‌های دموگرافیک، MMSE، CES-D 10 و پرسشنامه فعالیت-بدنی بک استفاده شد. جهت تحلیل داده‌ها از روش آنوای دوعاملی با نرم‌افزار SPSS استفاده گردید. یافته‌ها: آزمودنی‌های این مطالعه 198 مرد و 186 زن بودند. ازین تعداد 5/23% مردان و 5/10% زنان فعال بودند. طبق این یافته‌ها 9 مرد و 14زن دارای اختلال آلزایمر اولیه تشخیص‌داده‌شدند. سطح فعالیت‌بدنی مردان به‌طور معناداری بیشتر از زنان بود و شاخص MMSE نیز در مردان فعال نسبت به سایر گروه‌ها به‌طور معناداری بیشتر بود (0001/0=p). در تمامی فاکتورهای موثر مورد-بررسی در این مطالعه بجز سطح تحصیلات (0620/=p) به‌طور معناداری افراد فعال نسبت‌به غیرفعال‌ها از نمرات MMSE بالاتری برخوردار بودند (00010/=p). نتیجه‌گیری: اگرچه شیوع آلزایمر در مطالعه حاضر کم بود اما 35% زنان و 27% مردان در طبقه خطر اختلال آلزایمر قرار‌داشتند و با توجه به اینکه برای آلزایمر درمان قطعی وجود ندارد ممکن است بتوان با دستکاری فاکتورهایی از قبیل استعمال دخانیات، چاقی، مشارکت اجتماعی، شیوه زندگی و از همه مهمتر سطح فعالیت‌بدنی گام‌های موثری جهت کاهش آن برداشت. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6731.html Background and Aim: Forward head posture causes shoulder dysfunction and neck pain, and this increased stress can cause musculoskeletal injury or pain. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of a course of Graston technique on the craniovertebral angle (CVA) and cervical range of motion in male and female with forward head posture (FHP). Method: Thirty male and female employees aged 30 to 45 years who had forward head posture were voluntarily selected according to the entry criteria. The subjects were treated with Graston technique for 4 weeks, 3 sessions per week. Before and after the therapeutic intervention, rounder shoulder, CVA, and neck range of motion were evaluated. The paired t-test and analysis of covariance(ANCOVA) were used to statistically analyze the research hypotheses. Results: 4 weeks of Graston technique caused significant positive effects on rounder shoulder, CVA, extension, right and left lateral flexion, and right and left neck rotation in men(p˂0.05).Also, the results showed that the Graston technique caused significant positive effects on rounder shoulder, CVA, flexion, extension, right and left lateral bending, and right and left neck rotation in women(p˂0.05); but the difference between the two groups of men and women were not significant(p<0.05). Conclusion: In general, the results showed that 4 weeks of Graston technique causes significant effects on pain, rounder shoulder, CVA, extension, right and left lateral bending, and right and left neck rotation in men and women with FHP, and the trainers and specialists in this field can use this technique in people with FHP. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6732.html Background and Aim: Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) can lead to compensatory spinopelvic changes, including hyperlordosis, restricted spinal mobility, and functional disability in volleyball players. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a 10-week combined corrective exercise program (land and water) on the lumbar lordosis angle, spinal range of motion (ROM), and functional disability in professional volleyball players with LDH. Methods: In this randomized, single-blind clinical trial (blinded assessor), 30 professional male volleyball players with MRI-confirmed LDH were randomly allocated to either an experimental or a control group (n=15 per group). The experimental group performed a 10-week combined exercise program consisting of one land-based core stability session and two aquatic therapy sessions per week. Lumbar lordosis, spinal ROM, and disability were assessed using a flexible ruler, modified Schober test, and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) questionnaire, respectively. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests and ANCOVA (P < 0.05). Results: Following the intervention, the experimental group demonstrated a significant decrease in the lumbar lordosis angle (Mean Difference [MD] = -6.00°, Effect Size [η_p^2] = 0.65) and disability scores (MD = -13.00, η_p^2= 0.71) compared to the control group (P = 0.001). Additionally, spinal flexion and extension ROM significantly increased in the experimental group (P = 0.001). The control group showed no significant changes. Conclusion: A combined land-water corrective exercise protocol may serve as a beneficial conservative approach to modify spinopelvic kinematics, reduce hyperlordosis, and alleviate functional disability in volleyball players with LDH. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6733.html Background and Aim: Alzheimer's disease, decline, is associated with motor disorders such as increased fall risk and reduced walking capacity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the neuroprotective and preventive effects of 12 weeks of multicomponent exercise on fall risk, balance, daily function, and walking capacity in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Methods: This randomized controlled clinical trial with a pretest-posttest design and a control group was conducted on 43 patients with Alzheimer's disease (mean age 73.51 ± 5.13 years, MMSE range: 27‑30). Participants were randomly divided into an intervention group (n=20; 12 weeks of multicomponent exercise including aerobic, resistance, balance, and flexibility training, three sessions/week, 60 minutes per session) and a control group (n=23; usual care). Fall risk,, activities of daily living (Barthel Index), balance (Berg Balance Scale and TUG), and walking endurance (6‑minute walk test) were assessed at baseline and at week 12. Data were analyzed using mixed repeated‑measures ANOVA. Findings: After 12 weeks, the exercise group showed significant improvements compared to the control group in the Barthel Index (ηp²=0.38, p<0.001), TUG (ηp²=0.80, p<0.001), standing stork test (1.83 cm, p<0.001, ηp²=0.49), Berg Balance Scale (ηp²=0.54, p<0.001), 6‑minute walk test (ηp²=0.31, p<0.001), and quality of life (ηp²=0.29, p<0.001). Conclusion: Twelve weeks of MCT significantly improved fall risk, balance, daily function, and walking capacity in patients. These findings reinforce the potential role of MCT in the neuroprotective and preventive effects of physical activity and emphasize the importance of exercise interventions in the early stages of the disease. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6734.html Background and Objective: In addition to metabolic complications, the prevalence of obesity in children is associated with deficits in postural control and decreased neuromuscular coordination. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of 12 weeks of functional training on balance, muscle coordination, and body composition indices in 8-12 years obese children. Method: This study was a clinical trial with a pretest-posttest design and a control group. Twenty-four children with obesity (BMI percentile above 95) were selected by convenience sampling and randomly assigned to two experimental (12 people) and control (12 people) groups. The experimental group performed a functional exercise program for 12 weeks (3 sessions of 60 minutes per week) during hours outside of school. Balance, muscle coordination, and body composition (weight and fat percentage) were measured before and after the intervention. Data were analyzed using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) at the significant level of 0.05. Results: The results showed that after 12 weeks of intervention, there was a significant increase in movement indices including balance and muscle coordination in the experimental group compared to the control >group (P Also, functional training led to a significant decrease in body fat percentage and body weight in the experimental group compared to the control group (P=0.005). Conclusion: It seems that functional training, as a safe and attractive rehabilitation and corrective intervention, in addition to improving body composition, can significantly improve motor efficiency and neuromuscular coordination in children with obesity. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6735.html Introduction and purpose: Low back pain is a pervasive and debilitating musculoskeletal disorder that requires rehabilitation programs. The present study compared the Effect of Core Stabilization Exercises and General Physiotherapy Exercises on Core Endurance, Balance, and Pain in Women with Chronic Low Back Pain due to Disc HerniationMaterials and methods: In this semi-experimental study, 64 female patients with chronic back pain were selected in a purposeful and available manner and randomly paired (based on the VAS questionnaire score) were divided into two equal groups. Subjects of both groups of exercise protocol (core stability exercises and general exercises protocol) performed selected exercises during 8 weeks. Before and after the training period, the variables of pain, core endurance, and balance were measured by employing Quebec questionnaire, McGill endurance test, Y balance test. To investigate the difference in mean within groups, ANOVA statistical test was used for repeated measurements. Moreover, SPSS 27 software was used for data analysis at P=0.05 level.Findings: The results showed that in the group of core stabilization exercises, compared to the group of general physical therapy exercises, there was a more significant reduction in pain reduction (p≤0.05), improvement in muscle endurance and improvement in dynamic balance (p≤0.05).Conclusion: core stability exercises can be recommended to people with chronic back pain due to disc herniation as a complementary method in their treatment process. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6736.html Objective: Shoulder problems are prevalent in volleyball, yet the risk of injury can be mitigated through the implementation of a preventive program. To develop a more effective protocol, the present study aimed to evaluate the impact of the Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center shoulder injury prevention program on the range of motion for external and internal rotation, as well as upper extremity performance.Methods: This quasi-experimental study employed a pretest-posttest design involving 60 adolescent male and female volleyball players aged 12–15 years, randomly allocated to intervention (n=30) and control (n=30) groups. The intervention group incorporated the OSTRC shoulder injury prevention program as a warm-up for eight weeks prior to regular training sessions. Glenohumeral internal and external rotation ROM was assessed using a goniometer, and upper extremity performance was evaluated with the Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test. Data normality was confirmed via the Shapiro-Wilk test, and mixed-design analysis of variance was applied to determine training effects at a significance level of P < 0.05.Results: The results of the mixed-design analysis of variance indicated significant differences between pretest and posttest measurements across the variables of ROM and the closed kinetic chain performance test .Conclusion: The findings of the current study demonstrate the positive effects of the OSTRC shoulder injury prevention exercise program on enhancing glenohumeral internal and external rotation ROM and athletic performance in adolescent male and female volleyball players. It appears that incorporating this program may contribute to the prevention of shoulder injuries among volleyball athletes. https://rsr.basu.ac.ir/article_6737.html Background and Aims: Spinal cord injury leads to a decline in motor function, balance, hand performance, and quality of life. The present study aimed to determine the effectiveness of modified dynamic neuromuscular Stabilization exercises on wheelchair skills, balance, hand performance, and quality of life in patients with incomplete paraplegic spinal cord injury.Materials and Methods: This semi-experimental study included ten male spinal cord injury patients who were purposefully selected based on entry criteria for the research. The variables of wheelchair skill, seated balance, shoulder function, and quality of life of these individuals were measured using the Wheelchair Skill Test (WST), Modified Functional Reach Test (MFRT), Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (DASH), and Quality of Life Index (QLI), respectively. Subsequently, the participants did not receive any specific training for eight weeks, after which mid-term assessments were conducted. The participants then performed modified DNS exercises for another eight weeks, followed by a final post-test. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA (P≤0.05).Results: The results showed that the measured parameters in the participants significantly improved after the completion of the training period compared to the non-training period (P ≤ 0.05).Conclusion: It appears that performing DNS exercises leads to improvements in the measured parameters in individuals with spinal injuries. Consequently, this training method can be recommended in the physical rehabilitation process for these individuals.