Strength Gains:

Unsurprisingly, one of the key findings of the review was that both unilateral and bilateral resistance training interventions led to significant improvements in strength measures. However, the analysis revealed that bilateral training demonstrated a slightly greater effect on maximal strength gains compared to unilateral training. This is primarily attributed to the increased activation of synergistic muscles and neural adaptations that occur when both limbs are engaged simultaneously.

Jump Performance:

Jumping ability is a crucial determinant of athletic performance. The review highlighted that both unilateral and bilateral resistance training had positive effects on jump performance, particularly in terms of vertical jump height and power. However, when comparing the two training modalities, bilateral training showed a slight advantage in eliciting greater improvements in vertical jump performance. The increased activation of the lower limb muscles during bilateral exercises likely contributes to enhanced explosive power.

Linear Speed:

Again, the findings of the review indicated that both unilateral and bilateral resistance training interventions can improve linear speed to a similar extent. Unilateral training, focusing on the individual limb, has been shown to improve stride length and stride frequency, which are essential determinants of sprinting speed. On the other hand, bilateral training enhances muscular power and coordination, leading to improvements in overall running speed.

Change of Direction Speed:

Change of direction speed, commonly assessed through agility tests, is crucial for sports that involve rapid changes in movement direction. The meta-analysis revealed that both unilateral and bilateral resistance training interventions significantly improved change of direction speed. However, unilateral training appeared to have a slightly greater effect on agility performance. Unilateral exercises require greater stabilization and control from individual muscles, which can enhance an athlete’s ability to decelerate, change direction, and accelerate again quickly.

In summary, based on the systematic review and meta-analysis, both unilateral and bilateral resistance training interventions have positive effects on measures of strength, jump performance, linear speed, and change of direction speed. While bilateral training may lead to slightly greater improvements in maximal strength and vertical jump height, unilateral training may offer a slight advantage in terms of change of direction speed. It is important to note that the choice between unilateral and bilateral training should be based on individual goals, sport-specific requirements, and the patient’s needs. Therefore, sports physiotherapists and strength and conditioning coaches should carefully consider these factors when designing exercise programs to optimise outcomes for their patients.

Remember, it is always recommended to consult your qualified Praxis physiotherapist before starting any exercise program, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or injuries. We can provide personalised guidance and ensure that your training program aligns with your specific needs and goals.

Until next time,

Praxis What You Preach

All meniscal tears need surgery 🤔🔪🔪🔪🔪 ???

ANSWER: FICTION

In a recent meta-analysis (multiple studies combined), Kise and colleagues concluded that a small but inconsequential benefit is seen from treatment interventions that involve arthroscopy.

However, this small effect is of short duration and absent one year post surgery. Only 1 in 5 randomised controlled trials found greater pain relief 12 months after partial meniscectomy compared with non-surgical treatment! Further, the supervised exercise therapy showed positive effects over surgery group in improving thigh muscle strength, at least in the short term🙌

If you do NOT have mechanical symptoms (locking specifically), these results should encourage individuals with degenerative meniscal tears and no definitive radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis to consider supervised exercise therapy as a treatment option. Translation: Get strong and get moving under the care of a skilled physio like us at Praxis 💪🏃!

If your knee pain is holding you back, put a spring back into your step with Praxis Physio. We can accurately diagnose your issues, highlight where we can help, and get back on the path to improved function. To make a booking, call (07) 3102 3337 or book online 

#praxisphysio #kneepain #meniscus #mensicaltear #preventprepareperform #praxiswhatyoupreach #praxisblog #degenerativemeniscus #evidencebasedpractice

Reference

Kise N, et al. Exercise therapy versus arthroscopic partial meniscectomy for degenerative meniscal tear in middle aged patients: randomised controlled trial with two year follow-up. Br J Sports Med. 2016.

ALICE SPRINGS

Cam and Steve finish their week at the National Indigenous Cricket Carnival (NICC) as the central Physiotherapists representing Cricket Australia and Praxis. The NICC has been created to further advance and develop Indigenous cricket. The competition provides greater playing opportunities in Alice Springs, but also forms a deeper connection with Australian cricket’s high performance pathway.

They were busy providing their expertise to over 10 male and female cricket teams who didn’t have a travelling physio accompanying them to Alice Springs. With over 150 consults in a week and 12 hour days as a minimum, our principal physio’s leave the tournament a little weary but proud of the standard they maintained during their stint in the Red Centre.

Both Cam and Steve are back in clinic on Wednesday looking forward to living the Prevent Prepare Perform mantra at our HQ in Teneriffe.

Until Next time

Prevent. Prepare. Perform.

Team Praxis