Risk Factors for Musculoskeletal Health: A Review of the Literature and Clinical Application.

Context: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSKD) are currently the leading contributor to disability worldwide. Unlike other prevalent and disabling healthcare conditions such as CVD, risk factors associated with MSKD are not commonly discussed or integrated into current medical practice, rehabilitation practice or wellness programs. The primary purpose of this review is to describe the known risk factors most closely associated with MSKD.

Reliability and Validity of Visual Estimation in Determining Thorax Rotation Mobility using the Quadruped Lumbar-Locked Position.

Background: Thoracic rotation mobility is crucial for athletes in rotational sports such as baseball, golf, and swimming to maintain the proper biomechanics associated with the sport. Accurate differentiation between normal mobility and active and passive physiological deficits in the thoracic region is critical for identifying the need for intervention to the thorax.

Purpose: To establish the reliability and discriminant validity of visual estimation of thorax rotation range of motion across clinicians of differing experience levels in determining normal mobility and active or passive physiological deficits when utilizing the quadruped lumbar-locked position.

Comparison of Intervention Programs to Improve Trunk Stability for Active Females.

Background: Current literature illustrates a disparity in trunk stability push up performance (TSPU), as measured by the Functional Movement Screen (FMSTM), in females throughout the lifespan when compared to their male counterparts.

Hypothesis/purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a novel exercise approach to a trunk stability (NEATS) program compared to a standard Pilates program on TSPU performance in active females aged 18-45 years. It was hypothesized that subjects in the NEATS program would have greater improvements on outcomes related to trunk stability than subjects in the Pilates program.

Advancements for the Future: A National Survey of Fastpitch Softball Coaches' Perspectives on Injury Prevention Programming.

Background: Approximately 50 percent of softball injuries are the result of overuse or chronic conditions. However, research exploring preventative measures for softball players is limited and usage of injury prevention strategies among softball coaches is unknown.

Hypothesis/purpose: This survey aimed to investigate if softball coaches are implementing injury prevention programs to reduce injury and improve the performance of their players.