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Immediate effect of thoracic spinal manipulation versus passive stretching on upper trapezius pain in university students: A randomized controlled trial
Sherin Nada Salsabila1, Adnan Faris Naufal21. Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta , ID2. Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta , ID2025-11-26|page 250-265AbstractBackground: Pain disorders in the upper trapezius muscle are often experienced by students due to non-ergonomic postures and excessive duration of device use. Interventions such as spinal manipulation and stretching exercises are non-invasive interventions often used to reduce pain and improve muscle function.
Objectives: This study compares the effectiveness of two interventions in reducing trapezius muscle pain among university students.
Methods: This randomized controlled trial involved 40 physiotherapy students divided equally into two intervention groups. Group I received thoracic spinal manipulation, and Group II received passive stretching. Each intervention was administered in a single 15-minute session. Pain intensity was measured using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) before and immediately after treatment. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test for within-group comparisons and the Mann–Whitney U test for between-group analysis, with an alpha level of 0.05.
Results: The Wilcoxon test revealed a significant decrease in pain within both groups (Group I: median pre 4.5 [3.63–5] to post 2.5 [1.50–3.38], p = 0.000, r = 0.879; Group II: median pre 4.25 [3–5] to post 1 [0.13–3], p = 0.000, r = 0.84), indicating a significant effect of both interventions. The Mann–Whitney U test showed no statistically significant difference in pain reduction between the two groups (median pain difference = 2 [1–3] for both, U = 186.5, Z = –0.375, p = 0.707, r = 0.06).
Conclusions: Both thoracic spinal manipulation and passive stretching were effective in reducing upper trapezius pain immediately after a single session, but no significant difference was found between the two interventions. These findings suggest that both approaches provide comparable short-term benefits; however, further research with larger samples, multiple sessions, and more extended follow-up periods is needed to confirm their long-term efficacy.
APA Citation StyleSalsabila, S. N. , & Naufal, A. F. (2025). Immediate effect of thoracic spinal manipulation versus passive stretching on upper trapezius pain in university students: A randomized controlled trial. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 250-265. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i3.634 -
Low-impact specialized pilates is better than low intensity steady state for increasing fitness level
Laily Mita Andriana1, Kunjung Ashadi2, Fransisca Januarumi Marhaendra Wijaya3, Muhamad Fauzi Antoni41. Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID2. Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID3. Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID4. Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID2025-07-13|page 139-151AbstractBackground: Elderly individuals with disabilities often face challenges in maintaining physical fitness, highlighting the need for effective and appropriate exercise methods tailored to their limitations.
Objectives: This study compares the effectiveness of low-impact specialized Pilates and Low-Intensity Steady-State (LISS) exercise in improving fitness levels among older adults with mild to moderate disabilities. The unique advantage of Pilates in enhancing balance and core strength is presented as a novel contribution.
Methods: A quasi-experimental design with pre-test and post-test assessments was employed, involving 40 elderly participants with disabilities divided into two intervention groups over 8 weeks. Participants were selected through purposive sampling based on the inclusion criteria of 60–75 years with mild to moderate disabilities. Fitness levels were assessed using the Senior Fitness Test, which evaluates muscular strength, balance, flexibility, and aerobic capacity.
Results: Data analysis was conducted using the Shapiro–Wilk test, paired sample t-test, and independent sample t-test. The results demonstrated that the low-impact specialized Pilates group showed significant improvements in core strength, balance, and flexibility, whereas the LISS group exhibited greater improvements in aerobic capacity.
Conclusions: In conclusion, low-impact specialized Pilates is more effective in enhancing overall fitness among elderly individuals with disabilities. Therefore, it is recommended as a suitable exercise modality for rehabilitation and health maintenance programs to improve this population's quality of life and functional independence.
APA Citation StyleAndriana, L. M. , Ashadi, K. , Wijaya, F. J. M. , & Antoni, M. F. (2025). Low-impact specialized pilates is better than low intensity steady state for increasing fitness level. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 139-151. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i2.575 -
Weightlifting coaches' and athletes' understanding of injury prevention programs: a case study of Lumajang and Malang
Muhammad Izzan Atmagara1, Yulingga Nanda Hanief21. State University of Malang , ID2. State University of Malang , ID2025-09-21|page 222-235AbstractBackground: Weightlifting is a high-intensity sport with a high risk of injuries due to improper technique, insufficient warm-up, and excessive training loads.
Objectives: This study explores the understanding, strategies, and barriers of weightlifting coaches and athletes in Lumajang District and Malang City related to implementing injury prevention programs in performance sports.
Methods: This study used a qualitative case study approach. Participants were selected using purposive sampling, consisting of weightlifting coaches with at least one year of experience and athletes who had trained and competed at the regional level. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and document analysis, while data were analyzed using the Miles and Huberman model, including reduction, presentation, and conclusion.
Results: The results showed that coaches and athletes emphasized dynamic warm-ups, core and back strengthening exercises, and correct lifting techniques as the main strategies to prevent injuries. However, limitations in facilities, literature access, and training variety were identified as barriers to implementing optimal injury prevention programs.
Conclusions: This study concludes that effective injury prevention in weightlifting requires structured warm-up routines, individualized training programs, and adequate supporting equipment. Strengthening coaches’ knowledge and providing better facilities are crucial to minimize injuries and enhance athlete performance.APA Citation StyleAtmagara, M. I. , & Hanief, Y. N. (2025). Weightlifting coaches' and athletes' understanding of injury prevention programs: a case study of Lumajang and Malang. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 222-235. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i2.601 -
A critical analysis of the disconnection between science and practice in weight training
Ferdinando Cereda11. The Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan , IT2025-04-07|page 46-59AbstractBackground: Resistance training (RT) has emerged as a powerful tool for health promotion, with substantial scientific evidence supporting its beneficial effects across multiple physiological systems and psychological domains. Despite this robust knowledge base, a significant disconnection persists between scientific evidence and practical implementation in both clinical and everyday settings.
Objectives: This study aims to critically examine this science-practice gap by analyzing common misconceptions surrounding RT and proposing strategies to enhance knowledge translation.
Methods: Through a narrative review of scientific literature from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, the research synthesizes evidence regarding RT's scientifically validated benefits, prevalent myths, and effective communication approaches.
Results: Findings show a concerning lack of scientific awareness among practitioners and end-users. Persistent misconceptions, such as "RT reduces flexibility" and "plant-based proteins are inferior for muscle hypertrophy," continue to circulate despite contradictory evidence.
Conclusions: Improved scientific communication via targeted educational programs, digital platforms, and collaboration between researchers and policymakers is urgently needed to bridge this gap and maximize RT’s public health impact.
APA Citation StyleCereda, F. (2025). A critical analysis of the disconnection between science and practice in weight training. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 46-59. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i1.499 -
Associations between physical activity intensity and motor balance in elementary school students: A sequential explanatory mixed-methods study
Fahrurrohman Firdaus1, Indra Safari2, Rizal Ahmad Fauzi31. Indonesian University of Education , ID2. Indonesian University of Education , ID3. Indonesian University of Education , ID2026-04-01|page 47-56AbstractBackground: Children in primary school are becoming more sedentary due to advances in digital technology, which may reduce their physical activity levels. The development of motor skills, especially balance, which is an essential feature of children's motor abilities, can be impacted by a lack of physical activity.
Objectives: This study aimed to examine the association between physical activity intensity and motor balance in elementary school students.
Methods: This study used a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design. The quantitative phase involved 50 students selected using saturated sampling, while the qualitative phase involved teachers and students selected purposively. Physical activity intensity was measured using the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children (PAQ-C), while motor balance was assessed using the Balance Beam Test. Quantitative data were analyzed using Spearman's rank correlation, and qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis in NVivo.
Results: With a correlation coefficient of r = 0.687 and p < 0.05, the analysis demonstrated a strong, substantial positive link between motor balance levels and physical activity intensity. The intensity of physical activity accounted for 47.2% of motor balance. Qualitative research revealed that students with high levels of physical activity were more likely to engage in active play, such as running outside, cycling, and soccer, which, in turn, indirectly improve balance and postural stability.
Conclusions: This study demonstrates that physical activity intensity plays an important role in the development of motor balance among elementary school students. These findings highlight the importance of integrating active movement-based learning strategies in physical education programs.
APA Citation StyleFirdaus, F. , Safari, I. , & Fauzi, R. A. (2026). Associations between physical activity intensity and motor balance in elementary school students: A sequential explanatory mixed-methods study. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 47-56. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v5i1.706 -
Medical observations and injury analysis: All Girls Touch Rugby Championship 2024
Mohamad Nizam Nazarudin1, Yong Qin Tan2, Ardo Okilanda3, Yovhandra Ockta4, Reshandi Nugraha51. National University of Malaysia , MY2. National University of Malaysia , MY3. State University of Padang , ID4. Universitas Teuku Umar , ID5. UniversitasPendidikan Indonesia , ID2025-04-04|page 32-45AbstractBackground: Touch rugby is a high-intensity, non-contact sport requiring agility, speed, and coordination. This study analyzes injury distribution, treatment effectiveness, and preventive measures among youth touch rugby players.
Objectives: This study examined injury patterns among adolescent female athletes during the 2024 All-Girls Touch Rugby Championship (AGTR 2024).
Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted using medical reports from the two-day All-Girls Touch Rugby Championship 2024 (AGTR 2024) at Universiti Putra Malaysia. The study examined 484 female athletes (ages 9–18 years), with 176 injuries recorded and categorized as soft tissue injuries (52.3%), abrasions (23.9%), and sprains (14.2%). Descriptive statistics were used to assess injury distribution, while chi-square analysis (χ² = 10.45, p < 0.01) evaluated the relationship between injury type and age group.
Results: Younger players (10–14 years) sustained more abrasions (60%), whereas older athletes (15–18 years) had a higher incidence of soft tissue injuries (68%). Injuries increased by 66.7% on Day 2, highlighting the impact of cumulative fatigue and tournament intensity. Ice therapy (68%) and bandaging (55%) were the most utilized treatments, with only 7% of cases requiring outpatient referrals.
Conclusions: Findings underscore the need for structured warm-ups, enhanced hydration protocols, and targeted strength training to reduce injury risks. The study emphasizes the role of injury surveillance, playing surface improvements, and gender-specific training programs in preventing injuries and enhancing athlete safety. Implementing evidence-based preventive strategies can promote the long-term development and sustainability of touch rugby for adolescent athletes. Future research should focus on longitudinal injury tracking and tailored intervention strategies.
APA Citation StyleNazarudin, M. N. , Tan, Y. Q. , Okilanda, A. , Ockta, Y. , & Nugraha, R. (2025). Medical observations and injury analysis: All Girls Touch Rugby Championship 2024. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 32-45. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i1.495












