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BioMed Research International 2015Balance control improvement is one of the most important goals in sports and exercise. Better balance is strongly positively associated with enhanced athletic... (Review)
Review
Balance control improvement is one of the most important goals in sports and exercise. Better balance is strongly positively associated with enhanced athletic performance and negatively associated with lower limb sports injuries. Proprioception plays an essential role in balance control, and ankle proprioception is arguably the most important. This paper reviews ankle proprioception and explores synergies with balance control, specifically in a sporting context. Central processing of ankle proprioceptive information, along with other sensory information, enables integration for balance control. When assessing ankle proprioception, the most generalizable findings arise from methods that are ecologically valid, allow proprioceptive signals to be integrated with general vision in the central nervous system, and reflect the signal-in-noise nature of central processing. Ankle proprioceptive intervention concepts driven by such a central processing theory are further proposed and discussed for the improvement of balance control in sport.
Topics: Ankle; Ankle Joint; Athletic Performance; Humans; Postural Balance; Proprioception
PubMed: 26583139
DOI: 10.1155/2015/842804 -
BMB Reports Aug 2021In animals, proper locomotion is crucial to find mates and foods and avoid predators or dangers. Multiple sensory systems detect external and internal cues and integrate... (Review)
Review
In animals, proper locomotion is crucial to find mates and foods and avoid predators or dangers. Multiple sensory systems detect external and internal cues and integrate them to modulate motor outputs. Proprioception is the internal sense of body position, and proprioceptive control of locomotion is essential to generate and maintain precise patterns of movement or gaits. This proprioceptive feedback system is conserved in many animal species and is mediated by stretch-sensitive receptors called proprioceptors. Recent studies have identified multiple proprioceptive neurons and proprioceptors and their roles in the locomotion of various model organisms. In this review we describe molecular and neuronal mechanisms underlying proprioceptive feedback systems in C. elegans, Drosophila, and mice. [BMB Reports 2021; 54(8): 393-402].
Topics: Animals; Caenorhabditis elegans; Drosophila; Feedback, Sensory; Humans; Kinesthesis; Locomotion; Mice; Motor Activity; Motor Neurons; Postural Balance; Proprioception; Sensory Receptor Cells
PubMed: 34078529
DOI: 10.5483/BMBRep.2021.54.8.052 -
Journal of Neurophysiology Aug 2019In addition to being a prerequisite for many activities of daily living, the ability to maintain steady upright standing is a relevant model to study sensorimotor... (Review)
Review
In addition to being a prerequisite for many activities of daily living, the ability to maintain steady upright standing is a relevant model to study sensorimotor integrative function. Upright standing requires managing multimodal sensory inputs to produce finely tuned motor output that can be adjusted to accommodate changes in standing conditions and environment. The sensory information used for postural control mainly arises from the vestibular system of the inner ear, vision, and proprioception. Proprioception (sense of body position and movement) encompasses signals from mechanoreceptors (proprioceptors) located in muscles, tendons, and joint capsules. There is general agreement that proprioception signals from leg muscles provide the primary source of information for postural control. This is because of their exquisite sensitivity to detect body sway during unperturbed upright standing that mainly results from variations in leg muscle length induced by rotations around the ankle joint. However, aging is associated with alterations of muscle spindles and their neural pathways, which induce a decrease in the sensitivity, acuity, and integration of the proprioceptive signal. These alterations promote changes in postural control that reduce its efficiency and thereby may have deleterious consequences for the functional independence of an individual. This narrative review provides an overview of how aging alters the proprioceptive signal from the legs and presents compelling evidence that these changes modify the neural control of upright standing.
Topics: Aging; Humans; Leg; Muscle Spindles; Postural Balance; Proprioception; Standing Position
PubMed: 31166819
DOI: 10.1152/jn.00067.2019 -
Journal of Applied Physiology... Mar 2022Proprioception, which can be defined as the awareness of the mechanical and spatial state of the body and its musculoskeletal parts, is critical to motor actions and...
Proprioception, which can be defined as the awareness of the mechanical and spatial state of the body and its musculoskeletal parts, is critical to motor actions and contributes to our sense of body ownership. To date, clinical proprioceptive tests have focused on a person's ability to detect, discriminate, or match limb positions or movements, and reveal that the strength of the relationship between deficits in proprioception and physical function varies widely. Unfortunately, these tests fail to assess higher-level proprioceptive abilities. In this Perspective, we propose that to understand fully the link between proprioception and function, we need to look beyond traditional clinical tests of proprioception. Specifically, we present a novel framework for human proprioception assessment that is divided into two categories: low-level and high-level proprioceptive judgments. Low-level judgments are those made in a single frame of reference and are the types of judgments made in traditional proprioceptive tests (i.e., detect, discriminate or match). High-level proprioceptive abilities involve proprioceptive judgments made in a different frame of reference. For example, when a person indicates where their hand is located in space. This framework acknowledges that proprioception is complex and multifaceted and that tests of proprioception should not be viewed as interchangeable, but rather as complimentary. Crucially, it provides structure to the way researchers and clinicians can approach proprioception and its assessment. We hope this Perspective serves as the catalyst for discussion and new lines of investigation.
Topics: Hand; Humans; Movement; Proprioception; Upper Extremity
PubMed: 35142561
DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00809.2021 -
Journal of Athletic Training Nov 2017Reference: Schiftan GS, Ross LA, Hahne AJ. The effectiveness of proprioceptive training in preventing ankle sprains in sporting populations: a systematic review and... (Review)
Review
UNLABELLED
Reference: Schiftan GS, Ross LA, Hahne AJ. The effectiveness of proprioceptive training in preventing ankle sprains in sporting populations: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Sci Med Sport. 2015;18(3):238-244.
CLINICAL QUESTION
Does the use of proprioceptive training as a sole intervention decrease the incidence of initial or recurrent ankle sprains in the athletic population?
DATA SOURCES
The authors completed a comprehensive literature search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) from inception to October 2013. The reference lists of all identified articles were manually screened to obtain additional studies. The following key words were used. Phase 1 population terms were sport*, athlet*, and a combination of the two. Phase 2 intervention terms were propriocept*, balance, neuromusc* adj5 train*, and combinations thereof. Phase 3 condition terms were ankle adj5 sprain*, sprain* adj5 ankle, and combinations thereof.
STUDY SELECTION
Studies were included according to the following criteria: (1) the design was a moderate- to high-level randomized controlled trial (>4/10 on the PEDro scale), (2) the participants were physically active (regardless of previous ankle injury), (3) the intervention group received proprioceptive training only, compared with a control group that received no proprioceptive training, and (4) the rate of ankle sprains was reported as a main outcome. Search results were limited to the English language. No restrictions were placed on publication dates.
DATA EXTRACTION
Two authors independently reviewed the studies for eligibility. The quality of the pertinent articles was assessed using the PEDro scale, and data were extracted to calculate the relative risk. Data extracted were number of participants, intervention, frequency, duration, follow-up period, and injury rate.
MAIN RESULTS
Of the initial 345 studies screened, 7 were included in this review for a total of 3726 participants. Three analyses were conducted for proprioceptive training used (1) to prevent ankle sprains regardless of history (n = 3654), (2) to prevent recurrent ankle sprains (n = 1542), or (3) as the primary preventive measure for those without a history of ankle sprain (n = 946). Regardless of a history of ankle sprain, participants had a reduction in ankle-sprain rates (relative risk [RR] = 0.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.55, 0.77; numbers needed to treat [NNT] = 17, 95% CI = 11, 33). For individuals with a history of ankle sprains, proprioceptive training demonstrated a reduction in repeat ankle sprains (RR = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.51, 0.81; NNT = 13, 95% CI = 7, 100). Proprioceptive training as a primary preventive measure demonstrated significant results (RR = 0.57, 95% CI = 0.34, 0.97; NNT = 33, 95% CI = 16, 1000).
CONCLUSIONS
Proprioceptive training programs were effective in reducing the incidence rates of ankle sprains in the athletic population, including those with and those without a history of ankle sprains.
Topics: Ankle Injuries; Ankle Joint; Humans; Physical Therapy Modalities; Proprioception; Sports; Sprains and Strains
PubMed: 29140127
DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-52.11.16 -
BioMed Research International 2020Stretching is an important part of post ankle sprain rehabilitation, as well as an effective exercise for improving general ankle-joint performance. But the combination... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
Effectiveness of Low-Frequency Stimulation in Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Techniques for Post Ankle Sprain Balance and Proprioception in Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Stretching is an important part of post ankle sprain rehabilitation, as well as an effective exercise for improving general ankle-joint performance. But the combination of stretching alongside low-frequency stimulation has not yet been extensively studied. Therefore, the purpose of the present randomized controlled trial was to compare the combined effects of low-frequency transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) with proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) on strength, balance, and proprioception among individuals with post ankle sprain. Sixty male subjects with lateral ankle sprain were selected and randomly allocated to three groups: group 1, group 2, and the control group (CG). Subjects in group 1 received the PNF stretching technique combined with TENS. TENS stimulation was provided using two electrodes placed 5 cm apart directly on the triceps sural muscle of the affected leg and a biphasic current with a symmetrical waveform at 50 Hz for 15 seconds, tuned for a 3-second ramp up time and a 30-second rest time with a 250-microsecond pulse duration was given with PNF stretching. Subjects in group 2 received the PNF stretching technique alone. Both group 1 and group 2 received these treatments for 4 weeks (4 days/week); follow-up assessments were administered in the third and fifth weeks. CG received no treatment; outcome measures alone were assessed. Outcome measures comprised pain, balance, flexibility, proprioception, range of motion, muscle strength, and functional limitation. A mixed-model ANOVA showed significant interaction (time and group) and the time effect for all the outcome measures ( ≤ 0.05). Group 1 (PNF-TENS) showed significant improvement for all the outcome variables compared to the other groups. The present study showed PNF stretching combined with TENS for the triceps sural muscle to trigger muscle contraction during the muscle contraction phase of the PNF stretch, compared against PNF stretching alone, produced significant improvements in ankle function for post ankle sprain subjects.
Topics: Adult; Ankle; Ankle Injuries; Humans; Male; Muscle Stretching Exercises; Postural Balance; Proprioception; Range of Motion, Articular; Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation; Young Adult
PubMed: 33029528
DOI: 10.1155/2020/9012930 -
Physiological Reviews Oct 2012This is a review of the proprioceptive senses generated as a result of our own actions. They include the senses of position and movement of our limbs and trunk, the... (Review)
Review
This is a review of the proprioceptive senses generated as a result of our own actions. They include the senses of position and movement of our limbs and trunk, the sense of effort, the sense of force, and the sense of heaviness. Receptors involved in proprioception are located in skin, muscles, and joints. Information about limb position and movement is not generated by individual receptors, but by populations of afferents. Afferent signals generated during a movement are processed to code for endpoint position of a limb. The afferent input is referred to a central body map to determine the location of the limbs in space. Experimental phantom limbs, produced by blocking peripheral nerves, have shown that motor areas in the brain are able to generate conscious sensations of limb displacement and movement in the absence of any sensory input. In the normal limb tendon organs and possibly also muscle spindles contribute to the senses of force and heaviness. Exercise can disturb proprioception, and this has implications for musculoskeletal injuries. Proprioceptive senses, particularly of limb position and movement, deteriorate with age and are associated with an increased risk of falls in the elderly. The more recent information available on proprioception has given a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying these senses as well as providing new insight into a range of clinical conditions.
Topics: Aging; Exercise; Humans; Mechanoreceptors; Movement; Muscle Spindles; Muscle, Skeletal; Posture; Proprioception
PubMed: 23073629
DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00048.2011 -
Journal of Musculoskeletal & Neuronal... Dec 2019This systematic review aims to determine the effectiveness of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) treatment techniques in adhesive capsulitis for decreasing... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
This systematic review aims to determine the effectiveness of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) treatment techniques in adhesive capsulitis for decreasing pain and disability and increasing range of motion (ROM) and function. A thorough, computerized search was done using database search engines by two reviewers. After meticulous scrutiny and screening of 410 studies, according to the selection criteria, 10 full-text articles were included in the review and meta-analysis. All 10 studies had undergone a methodological quality assessment by the Physiotherapy Evidence Database Scale. Meta-analysis was done for external rotation, abduction ROM and pain. The most common PNF techniques used by most of the studies were, hold-relax and contract-relax in upper limb D2 flexion, abduction, and an external rotation pattern, while some studies used scapular PNF patterns. Among the 10 included studies, nine showed that the PNF group is superior in decreasing pain and reducing disability, increasing ROM, improving function. The meta-analysis also showed a significant effect size and that the PNF is superior than conventional physical therapy in decreasing pain, increasing external rotation, and abduction ROM.
Topics: Bursitis; Humans; Physical Therapy Modalities; Proprioception; Range of Motion, Articular; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 31789299
DOI: No ID Found -
European Journal of Physical and... Jun 2021Nonspecific neck pain is associated with chronic pain, disability, reduced cervical mobility, postural control disorders and impaired proprioceptive control. (Comparative Study)
Comparative Study Randomized Controlled Trial
BACKGROUND
Nonspecific neck pain is associated with chronic pain, disability, reduced cervical mobility, postural control disorders and impaired proprioceptive control.
AIM
The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of two therapeutic exercise programs (i.e. cervical proprioception and cervical mobility) in reducing pain and disability in individuals with nonspecific neck pain. We further aimed to compare the effectiveness of the two treatments in improving pressure pain threshold, cervical range of motion and head repositioning accuracy.
DESIGN
This study was designed as a randomized controlled trial.
SETTING
This study took place in a private rehabilitation clinic.
POPULATION
Forty-two participants diagnosed with nonspecific neck pain, aged 18-65 years, were randomized to a cervical mobility group (N.=22) or a proprioception group (N.=20).
METHODS
The cervical mobility group combined a passive treatment and active mobility exercises, whereas the Proprioception group combined a passive treatment and proprioceptive exercises. Pain intensity, disability, pressure pain threshold, range of motion, and head repositioning accuracy were assessed at baseline and after 10 sessions.
RESULTS
Pain intensity and disability significantly improved for both interventions (p<0.01), but such improvement was greater for pain intensity in the proprioception group than in the cervical mobility group (P<0.01). Pressure pain threshold, range of motion and head repositioning accuracy improved only in the proprioception group (P<0.01).
CONCLUSIONS
A program based on cervical proprioception exercises demonstrated to improve pain, disability, pressure pain threshold, range of motion and head repositioning accuracy in patients with nonspecific neck pain. However, a program based on cervical mobility exercises only showed to improve pain intensity and disability, while such improvement was not clinically relevant.
CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT
The proprioceptive exercise program may be considered as the treatment of choice in patients with nonspecific neck pain.
Topics: Adult; Disability Evaluation; Exercise Therapy; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Neck Pain; Pain Measurement; Pain Threshold; Proprioception; Range of Motion, Articular
PubMed: 33047944
DOI: 10.23736/S1973-9087.20.06302-9 -
The Neuroscientist : a Review Journal... Dec 2019Motor control, which relies on constant communication between motor and sensory systems, is crucial for spine posture, stability and movement. Adaptions of motor control... (Review)
Review
Motor control, which relies on constant communication between motor and sensory systems, is crucial for spine posture, stability and movement. Adaptions of motor control occur in low back pain (LBP) while different motor adaption strategies exist across individuals, probably to reduce LBP and risk of injury. However, in some individuals with LBP, adapted motor control strategies might have long-term consequences, such as increased spinal loading that has been linked with degeneration of intervertebral discs and other tissues, potentially maintaining recurrent or chronic LBP. Factors contributing to motor control adaptations in LBP have been extensively studied on the motor output side, but less attention has been paid to changes in sensory input, specifically proprioception. Furthermore, motor cortex reorganization has been linked with chronic and recurrent LBP, but underlying factors are poorly understood. Here, we review current research on behavioral and neural effects of motor control adaptions in LBP. We conclude that back pain-induced disrupted or reduced proprioceptive signaling likely plays a pivotal role in driving long-term changes in the top-down control of the motor system via motor sensory cortical reorganization. In the outlook of this review, we explore whether motor control adaptations are also important for other (musculoskeletal) pain conditions.
Topics: Adaptation, Physiological; Humans; Low Back Pain; Movement; Posture; Proprioception; Sensorimotor Cortex
PubMed: 30387689
DOI: 10.1177/1073858418809074