Abstract: This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of a 12-week blood flow restriction (BFR) resistance training (BFRRT) program in enhancing anaerobic power. Changes in anaerobic power were compared following 12 weeks of resistance training using three approaches: low-load resistance training with BFRRT at 30% of one-repetition maximum (1RM), traditional high-load resistance training (HRT) at 80% of 1RM, and traditional low-load resistance training (LRT) at 30% of 1RM. Twenty-one male college students were randomly assigned to the BFRRT (n = 7), HRT (n = 7), or LRT (n = 7) groups. The BFR for BFRRT was applied to the proximal femur at 100–130 mmHg. Each group exercised three times per week for 12 weeks. Anaerobic power and metabolic fatigue levels were evaluated using the Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT) every 3 weeks, with blood lactate concentrations measured before and after each session. Outcomes included peak power, mean power, fatigue rate, and time to peak power, analyzed via two-way mixed-model analysis of variance. Results showed no significant differences across groups except for an interaction between training periods and group with respect to peak power. Post-hoc analysis revealed that BFRRT improved peak power by Week 6, HRT by Week 9, and LRT showed no improvements. BFRRT significantly enhanced anaerobic power in a shorter duration compared with HRT, despite utilizing lower loads and normal-speed exercises. These findings suggest that BFRRT is an effective and safe method for improving anaerobic power while reducing the risk of injury associated with HRT.

Abstract: Balance training in a virtual environment (VE) simulating travel on a bumpy road, induced large reductions in body sway within the training session and further reductions between-sessions [1]. These gains were well-retained over a 12-week interval. Here, to test how much this learning depended on visual input, we tested seven young adults who practiced maintaining balance in the same platform movements, but blindfolded. We hypothesized that the balance skill acquisition time-course would be invariant to eliminating visual input (sensory input reweighting). Center of Pressure displacements (CoP-d) were analyzed for each task iteration during the training session to assess “online” learning, and at 24 hours, 4 and 12-weeks post-training, to assess “offline” gains and retention. The results were compared to the published results obtained from participants training eyes-open, in the same VE conditions. Unlike the eye-open condition, CoP-d remained unchanged throughout the training session - no “online” stability gains. However, initial blindfolded performance equaled the lowest task-related CoP-d attained, at the end of the session, when training eyes-open. Nevertheless, blindfolded practice resulted in “offline” reductions in CoP-d by 4 and 12-weeks post-training. The results suggest that blindfolded balance performance may rely on pre-established balance skills that are independent of visual input and require little, within-session, adaptation. The initial, large stability gains reported in eyes-open training may reflect minimizing of redundant anticipatory postural adjustments to specific VE scenes. However, blindfolded training on a moving platform can lead to long-lasting balance gains, via a slow post-training, “offline”, process.

Abstract: Background: Frozen shoulder (FS) leads to pain, reduced shoulder function, and deficits in postural stability and sensorimotor control during upper-limb weight-bearing tasks. This study investigated how an eight-week Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) program affected Center of Pressure (COP) control and pain in middle-aged women with FS. Methods: Twenty-two middle-aged women with FS were randomly assigned to a DNS group (DNSG, n = 11) or a control group (CG, n = 11). The DNSG performed DNS exercises twice weekly for eight weeks, while the CG performed dynamic stretching. COP variables (distance, velocity, and root mean square (RMS) in the anterior–posterior (AP) and medial–lateral (ML) directions) were measured using a force platform under affected-side single-hand support with visual input and bilateral hand support with and without visual input. Pain was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). All variables were analyzed using a two-way mixed ANOVA. Results: Under the affected-side single-hand support condition, significant group-by-time interaction effects were found in AP distance, AP velocity, ML velocity, and ML RMS (p < 0.05). In the bilateral hand-support conditions with and without visual input, additional COP variables also showed significant interactions (p < 0.05), and VAS-measured pain decreased over time in both groups. Conclusions: The DNS intervention demonstrated positive changes in postural stability and pain during upper-limb weight-bearing tasks in middle-aged women with FS. These findings suggest that DNS has potential as an intervention strategy to support functional recovery and enhance sensorimotor control in individuals with FS.

Abstract:

Background/Objectives: Urinary incontinence (UI) is common among women practicing sports, particularly those involving heavy lifting or high-impact movements that increase intra-abdominal pressure. UI can negatively affect social life, self-confidence, and motivation to remain active. This study aimed to examine the associations of sociodemographic, training-related, obstetric and surgical factors with UI in female weightlifters. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 84 French women regularly practicing weightlifting. Participants completed a sociodemographic and gynecological questionnaire, along with the Urinary Symptom Profile (USP). Data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U, Student’s t-test, Chi-square, and Fisher’s exact tests (95% confidence level). Results: Among participants (aged 15–49 years), 51 (60.7%) reported involuntary urine leakage, and 31 (36.9%) scored 1–3 on the USP stress incontinence subscale. Most participants were non-smokers (73.8%), with a median of 3.5 years of weightlifting experience, 4 weekly training sessions, and 6–7 competitions per year. No significant associations were found between UI and sociodemographic factors, obstetric history, previous surgeries, or training characteristics. Maximal lifts in Clean & Jerk and Snatch exercises were also similar between participants with and without UI. Slight trends suggested higher UI prevalence among women with vaginal deliveries, episiotomies, or vaginal lacerations. Conclusions: UI is common among female weightlifters, but in this study, was not associated with sociodemographic factors or weightlifting practices. These findings indicate that UI prevalence cannot be explained by the variables studied and highlight the need for further research into other potential contributing factors.

Abstract: BackgroundMoxibustion, a traditional Chinese medicine technique involving the application of heat to acupoints, has been increasingly integrated into rehabilitation protocols for musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. This systematic review aims to compare the effectiveness of moxibustion (particularly heat-sensitive variants) against conventional physical therapy (PT) in improving pain management, functional recovery, and quality of life in patients undergoing rehabilitation.MethodsFollowing PRISMA guidelines, we systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central, Web of Science, CINAHL, and CNKI from inception to December 2025. Eligibility criteria included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or comparative studies evaluating moxibustion (alone or combined with PT) versus conventional PT. Data were extracted on pain (VAS), function (FMA, BI), quality of life, and adverse events. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2.0. A narrative synthesis was performed due to heterogeneity.ResultsFrom 30 records, 15 studies met inclusion criteria (n=1,200 participants; conditions: post-stroke hemiplegia, rheumatoid arthritis [RA], total knee arthroplasty [TKA], myofascial pain syndrome [MPS], ankylosing spondylitis). Moxibustion + PT outperformed PT alone in 12/15 studies for pain reduction (mean VAS decrease: 1.5–3.0 points; p<0.05) and functional mobility (FMA improvements: 10–20%; p<0.01). Adjunctive moxibustion showed superior early recovery in TKA (e.g., faster straight-leg raise by 12–24 hours). Heterogeneity was high (I²>75%); low-moderate risk of bias in most trials. Adverse events were rare (burns <2%).ConclusionsMoxibustion enhances the effectiveness of conventional PT for pain relief and functional recovery in rehabilitation settings, particularly as an adjunct. Limitations include study heterogeneity and small sample sizes. High-quality RCTs are needed for meta-analysis.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Falls are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in older adults, even among those who are physically active. This study examined the associations of skeletal muscle mass, muscle strength, and muscle power with fall risk in community-dwelling, physically active older adults. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted with 280 participants (71.9 ± 5.3 years; 75% women) enrolled in the Stay Up–Falls Prevention Project. Assessments included skeletal muscle mass (anthropometric prediction equation), handgrip strength, lower-limb strength and power (Five Times Sit-to-Stand test, 5xSTS), and fall history over the past 12 months. Muscle power was calculated from 5xSTS performance using the equation proposed by Alcazar and colleagues. Logistic regression models and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were performed. Results: Overall, 26.4% of participants reported at least one fall in the previous year, with a higher prevalence among women (28.9%) than men (18.8%). Fallers showed significantly lower handgrip strength (23.1 vs. 25.4 kg, p = 0.022) and poorer lower-limb strength (9.2 vs. 8.7 s, p = 0.007) compared with non-fallers. However, no significant differences were found for skeletal muscle mass or sit-to-stand–derived power. In multivariable models adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, comorbidities, and medications, lower-limb strength remained the only independent predictor of falls (OR = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.11–2.85, p = 0.016). ROC analysis confirmed fair discriminative capacity for 5xSTS performance (AUC = 0.616, p = 0.003), with an optimal cut-off of 8.62 s (sensitivity = 78.4%, specificity = 33.0%). Handgrip strength, muscle mass, and power did not show independent predictive value. Conclusions: These findings indicate that the 5xSTS test provides a simple, cost-effective, and clinically relevant measure for fall-risk screening in active older adults. Clinicians should consider the 5xSTS as a sensitive first-line screening tool, ideally combined with complementary assessments (e.g., balance, gait, cognition) to improve risk stratification and guide preventive interventions in ageing populations.

Abstract: Background: Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT) BIG is a well-established exercise program in Parkinson’s Disease (PD), but its effectiveness in other neurological disorders is not well studied. This pilot study examined whether LSVT-BIG similarly improves balance and gait in MS patients compared to PD. Methods: A pilot clinical trial was conducted with two participant groups: MS and PD. Assessments were performed before, during, and after the 4-week LSVT BIG intervention, which followed the established PD protocol of one-hour sessions, four consecutive days per week. Balance and gait were evaluated using the mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test (mini-BESTest), Timed Up and Go (TUG), and Functional Gait Assessment (FGA). Single-leg stance time on firm, foam, and inclined surfaces was also measured. Data analysis was carried out using mixed ANOVA in SPSS v24. Results: Twelve participants completed the study (6 PD, 6 MS). Both groups significantly improved in mini-BESTest, FGA scores, and timed tasks (p < 0.001). Comparable between-group results revealed, with no significant differences between MS and PD groups (p > 0.5). Conclusions: Similar improvements across groups suggest that LSVT-BIG may also benefit patients with MS. Larger randomized trials are needed to confirm its suitability for this population.

Abstract: Background: Maintaining a physical and mental balance in the face of educational, social and behavioral demands requires involvement, perseverance, continuous information and evaluation of evolution. One of the aspects that contributes to maintaining this balance is also socio-professional development during university studies through learning experiences that can shape a more sustainable future. In this sense, the present study aims to nuance the correlations between academic specialization, body composition of students and their living environment. Methods: The assessment of body composition was carried out using bioelectrical impedance analysis on a research sample that included 206 students (105 men and 101 women, average age approximately 20 years). Results: The results obtained indicated a significant correlation between body composition and the field of study. In contrast, regarding the living environment, it did not present a significant influence on the university program of students. Conclusion: These perspectives support a deeper understanding of how we can intervene, through the integration of physical education programs, to promote thinking and practicing physical exercise from the student period in a sustainable way.

Abstract: Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a significant mental health issue among children and adolescents, characterized by deliberate, self-inflicted harm to body tissue without suicidal intent. NSSI is a robust predictor of later suicide attempts and is commonly linked to various psychiatric comorbidities. Ongoing debate concerns whether NSSI and suicidal behavior should be classified as separate entities or as points along a continuum of self-harm. The continuum perspective underscores the necessity of identifying risk factors that contribute to progression from NSSI to suicidal behavior. This paper reviews current literature on Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) and introduces a research project aimed at identifying predictors of transition from NSSI to Suicidal Self-Injurious Behaviour (SSIB) in clinical adolescent populations. The primary objective is to inform the development of early preventive interventions. The study will use a longitudinal design, enrolling adolescents aged 13 to 17 years from primary care and child psychiatry clinics. Eligibility requires meeting the proposed Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) criteria for Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI). The protocol includes structured interviews such as the Self-Injurious Thoughts and Behaviors Interview (SITBI) and the Suicide Attempt Self-Injury Interview (SASII), as well as selfreport instruments including the Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised (SBQ-R), Childrenʹs Depression Inventory 2 (CDI-2), Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS), and Youth Self- Report (YSR). These tools will assess self-injury, suicidality, emotional symptoms, emotion regulation, and overall functioning. Assessments will occur at baseline and at 1, 3, and 6 months to monitor changes in risk and resilience. Recognizing Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) as part of a continuum of psychopathological development is essential for clinical practice. The anticipated findings from this research may validate NSSI diagnostic criteria, identify critical risk markers for escalation to suicidal behavior, and support the creation of more effective, individualized screening, prevention, and treatment strategies. These advances aim to reduce morbidity and mortality among vulnerable adolescents.

Abstract:

Background: Female dancers experience non-contact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries at rates comparable to high-risk contact sports, yet laboratory-based marker systems have remained inaccessible for routine screening. Objectives: To compare the accuracy, feasibility, and ACL-risk detection performance of AI-enhanced markerless versus marker-based motion analysis in female dancers. Methods: Following a prospectively registered protocol, we searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL, IEEE Xplore, and dance-specific databases from 2015 to November 2025. Eligible studies performed direct head-to-head comparisons during dance-specific tasks (e.g., grand jeté, turnout plié, pointe relevé) in female dancers aged 10–30 years. Primary outcome: root-mean-square error (RMSE) for knee valgus angle. Risk of bias was assessed with ROBINS-I; evidence certainty with GRADE. Results: Twelve studies (n = 456 female dancers, mean age 18.2 years) were included. Markerless systems achieved a pooled RMSE of 2.9° (95% CI 2.1–3.7°, I² = 48%, k = 8) for knee valgus during landings and turnout tasks, with a pooled sensitivity of 84% (95% CI 76–90%) for high-risk profiles. Setup time was reduced by 80–95% and cost by >99% compared with marker-based systems. Certainty of evidence was moderate for accuracy and low for sensitivity. Conclusion: AI-enhanced markerless motion analysis provides clinically acceptable accuracy and unprecedented feasibility for ACL-risk screening in female dancers. Integration into studio-based prevention programmes is now justified and urgently needed. Level of evidence: Level II (systematic review of Level I–II studies).

Abstract:

Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the validity and reliability of the newly developed Low Sit–High Step (LS-HS) Test designed to assess lower-extremity muscle strength in the diagnosis of sarcopenia. Design: The study included 205 participants divided into four groups (possible sarcopenia, sarcopenia, young control, and middle-to-older control). The LS-HS Test was compared across groups, and its ability to distinguish sarcopenia and possible sarcopenia was evaluated. Internal consistency, inter-rater and test–retest reliability, and diagnostic accuracy were assessed to determine the test’s validity and reliability. Results: LS-HS Test scores were higher in participants with possible sarcopenia and sarcopenia (p<0.05). Multinomial logistic regression analysis showed that LS-HS Test performance could predict both possible sarcopenia and sarcopenia (p<0.001). Internal consistency was excellent (Cronbach’s α = 0.938), while inter-rater and test–retest reliability were very high (ICC = 0.998), confirming its reproducibility. ROC analysis demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy in distinguishing both possible sarcopenia and sarcopenia (p<0.01, AUC=0.768, AUC=0.704). Conclusions: The LS-HS Test appears to be a valid, reliable, and practical tool for assessing lower-limb muscle strength and functional decline in the diagnosis of sarcopenia. Its simplicity and clinical applicability suggest that it may serve as a useful option for routine screening and evaluation.

Abstract: This qualitative study examined how a 21-day integrated program fosters interoceptive awareness and mind–body integration among urban adults in mainland China (N = 11). The intervention combined daily nasal breathing regulation, spontaneous mandala drawing, and descriptive journaling, complemented by weekly group sharing. Using a cultural-psychological lens, we investigated how an inward-turning tradition in Chinese culture shapes embodied experience and meaning-making. Applying Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis to diaries, drawings, and focus-group data, we identified three interrelated processes: (1) the refinement of bodily attention; (2) a shift from deliberate control to natural immersion; and (3) the symbolization of feeling through artistic expression and social resonance. Findings indicate that systematic engagement in the “breath–mandala” intervention heightened sensitivity to chest-centered embodied sensations and promoted the integration of bodily experience into personal narratives; a non-goal-directed, relaxed practice style facilitated the transition from control to absorption, activating self-regulatory mechanisms; and non-evaluative awareness deepened flow while supporting cognitive reorganization and reflective capacity. The study delineates a core pathway by which breath-triggered interoceptive work operates within mind–body interventions, offering a theoretical basis and practical direction for tailored regulation programs across diverse populations.

Abstract: Background: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries disproportionately affect female football players, with rates up to 5-8 times higher than in males. Traditional marker-based motion analysis provides high-fidelity biomechanics for ACL risk screening but is lab-bound and costly. Emerging AI-enhanced markerless systems offer scalable alternatives for field-based prevention, yet comparative evidence is fragmented. Objectives: To systematically review and meta-analyze the accuracy, feasibility, and ACL risk prediction of AI-enhanced markerless versus marker-based motion analysis in female football players.Data sources: We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, and IEEE Xplore from January 2015 to November 2025, supplemented by gray literature and hand-searching.Study eligibility criteria: Randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and validation studies comparing AI-driven markerless (e.g., computer vision pose estimation) and marker-based (e.g., optical motion capture) systems for kinematic/kinetic outcomes in female football players aged 12-35 years. Outcomes included ACL risk metrics (e.g., knee valgus angle, ground reaction forces) and validity (e.g., RMSE). Participants and interventions: Female football athletes (amateur to elite); interventions were motion analysis approaches during tasks like cutting or landing.Study appraisal and synthesis methods: Two reviewers independently screened and extracted data using covidence.org; risk of bias assessed via ROBINS-I. Random-effects meta-analysis pooled mean differences in RMSE using inverse-variance methods; heterogeneity via I² and τ².Results: From 452 records, 18 studies (n=912 females) were included. Markerless systems showed comparable accuracy to marker-based gold standards (pooled MD RMSE 2.4° [95% CI 1.7-3.1°], I²=52%, 12 studies for knee angles). Markerless excelled in feasibility (e.g., 90% reduction in setup time). ACL risk prediction sensitivity was 86% (95% CI 78-92%) for markerless vs. 92% for marker-based (5 studies). Evidence quality was moderate (GRADE). Limitations of evidence: Few direct head-to-head trials in football-specific tasks; potential publication bias (Egger's p=0.08); underrepresentation of diverse ethnicities.Interpretation: AI-enhanced markerless motion analysis is a valid, feasible alternative to marker-based systems for ACL injury prevention screening in female football, supporting integration into programs like FIFA 11+. Hybrid approaches may optimize real-world implementation.

Abstract: Background: Proximal hamstring injuries involving the biceps femoris–semitendinosus (BF–ST) conjoint tendon are clinically challenging, yet the prognostic impact of full-layer conjoint tendon (CT) injuries remains unclear. This study aimed to determine whether CT involvement prolongs the time to return to play (RTP) compared with isolated BFLH or ST injuries. Methods: A prospective cohort of 41 university rugby players with acute proximal BF–ST complex injuries was evaluated using standardized physical examination, ultrasonography, and MRI. Injuries were classified by Type (I: full-layer CT; II: BFLH-only; III: ST-only), Zone (A–E), and Grade (0–3). RTP was defined as full participation in team training or competition. RTP differences among Types and, within Type I, across Zones and Grades were analyzed using appropriate parametric or non-parametric tests. Results: Type I injuries required significantly longer RTP (11.4 ± 4.8 weeks) than Type II (5.3 ± 2.4 weeks) or Type III (4.0 ± 1.7 weeks). In Zone C, bilateral involvement of both BFLH and ST resulted in longer RTP than unilateral BFLH injury. Within Type I, Zone A (origin detachment) showed the longest RTP (20 weeks), exceeding Zones B and C. Higher Grades were also associated with prolonged recovery. Conclusions: Full-layer CT injuries represent a distinct clinical entity with markedly delayed RTP compared with isolated BFLH or ST injuries. Classification that distinguishes CT involvement provides useful prognostic information and may enhance RTP planning in athletes.

Abstract: Background and objective. Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most prevalent musculoskeletal disorders globally, significantly impacting quality of life across diverse populations. Despite its association with middle-aged and older populations, evidence indicates that LBP is increasingly prevalent among younger age groups. Health science students are considered a potential risk factor for LBP; however, longitudinal studies are scarce. This study aims to determine the risk factors for LBP among health science students over a 2-year follow-up. Methods. One hundred ninety-seven of the third-class health science students (Nursing, Physiotherapy, Medical laboratory science, and Emergency Medical services) were contacted (May 2024). A self-administered modified version of the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire, and data about sedentary and physical activity behavior, as well as LBP/ or stress scores, were recorded. Results. A total of 172/197 (87.3%) respondents completed the questionnaire in the 2-year follow-up. Mean age of 25 ±3.5 (years) and body mass index (BMI) value of 23.5 ± 4.3 (kg/m2). About 49% (n= 84) and 20 % (n=34) of the participants had 1-month LBP and functional disability, respectively. No association was found between health science programs and the presence of 1-month LBP (χ²= 0.55, P>0.05). The logistic regression analyses found that males had a significantly lower likelihood of having LBP (OR 0.25, P = 0.03). Conclusions. This study shows a high prevalence of 1-month LBP (48.8%) among health science students at Zefat Academic College. LBP was over time, gender-dependent, and health science-independent. Keywords: Health science, students, low back pain, stress, females.

Abstract: Objectives Telerehabilitation has emerged as a crucial modality in light of recent global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. We examined the effectiveness of a mobile health telerehabilitation intervention developed for older adults with frailty and conducted an article search on this topic in the context of Japan. Methods Six participants received a nursing care telerehabilitation intervention (Rehab Studio) that included exercise training videos. The participants were aged ≥65 years, had no history of dementia or psychiatric disorders, and had mild-to-moderate care needs. For 1 month, the participants received 1-h live online rehabilitation sessions with real-time communication with rehabilitation specialists. The quality of life (QoL) (EuroQol 5 dimensions 5-level [EQ-5D-5L] and self-rated health scores were recorded before and after the intervention and analysed to determine whether the service was effective. Data were analysed using paired t-tests. Results Significant differences were found in the total EQ-5D-5L and self-rated health scores (p< 0.05). The mean EQ-5D-5L score increased from 0.63±0.13 before the intervention to 0.77±0.14 after the intervention (p=0.010), while the mean self-rated health score increased from 66.0±18.0 to 83.3±10.3, respectively (p=0.019). Conclusions The telerehabilitation intervention is safe and can improve the QoL. However, the effectiveness of the intervention needs to be further investigated in patients with poor performance in activities of daily living. Telerehabilitation could help reduce the burden of nursing care in ageing societies with declining birthrates.

Abstract: The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into sports injury prediction presents both promising advancements and significant ethical challenges. This study addresses the critical necessity of evaluating AI’s role in safeguarding athlete health while simultaneously protecting their privacy. The primary objective is to investigate ethical concerns related to data privacy, fairness, accountability, and transparency in AI-driven injury prediction models. Employing a systematic review and qualitative analysis, this research examines recent AI applications in sports, emphasizing machine learning methods for injury risk assessment. Key findings highlight the substantial benefits of AI in proactive injury prevention, improving athlete care and performance. However, ethical issues such as the risk of biased algorithms, unauthorized data use, and unclear accountability mechanisms persist. The study concludes with recommendations for rigorous data protection protocols, transparent AI frameworks, and informed consent processes to uphold athletes’ rights. A significant innovation of this work is the incorporation of explainable AI models that enhance trust and ethical compliance, aligning with statistical measures like sensitivity analysis and model validation techniques favored by contemporary editors. These approaches ensure robust, fair, and ethical AI applications in sports medicine, fostering safer athletic environments.

Abstract: To analyze the differences in body mass index (BMI) and functional fitness tests between women with and without frailty, and secondarily to determine whether frailty is related to functional fitness performance in elderly women. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 69 women aged 60 to 85 years. Weight, height and body mass index (BMI) were assessed. The Senior Fitness Test battery was used to assess functional fitness. Frailty was assessed through the Kihon Checklist (KCL) questionnaire. Results: There were significant differences (p< .05) between women with and without frailty in the sit to stand up from a chair, biceps curl and 2.44m agility tests. There were no significant differences between both groups in age, BMI, chair trunk flexion, 6-minute walk, 2-minute walk, right and left hand grip strength (p>.05). Significant positive correlation was determined between age and frailty (r=.359, p=.003). However, negative correlations were ob-served with functional fitness tests, including sitting and rising from a chair, biceps curl, trunk flexion in chair, join hands behind back, 2.44 m agility, 6-min walk, and right hand- grip strength, with values ranging from r = -.386 to r = -.268. No significant correlation was found with the walk test. Conclusion: The study showed significant differences in BMI and functional fitness tests between women with and without frailty. As women age, frailty increases and functional fitness decreases, especially in key tests, which may be useful in assessing fall risk and functional status in women aged 65-85 years.

Abstract: The global rise in nursing home (NH) populations presents substantial challenges, as residents frequently experience physical and cognitive decline, low physical activity, and high fall risk. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the BeSt Age App, a tablet-based, staff-supported mHealth intervention designed to promote physical activity and prevent falls among NH residents. In a cluster-randomized controlled trial across 19 German NHs, 229 residents (mean age = 85.4 ± 7.4 years; 74.7% female) were assigned to an intervention group (IG) or control group (CG). The 12-week intervention comprised twice-weekly, tablet-guided exercise sessions implemented by NH staff. Primary outcomes were fall incidence and fall risk (Berg Balance Scale [BBS], Timed Up and Go [TUG]); fear of falling was secondary. Mixed models and generalized estimating equations were used under an intention-to-treat framework. The IG showed significantly greater improvement in BBS scores than the CG (group × time: F(1,190.81) = 8.25, p = .005), while changes in TUG performance, fear of falling, and fall incidence were nonsignificant. The intervention improved balance, a key component of fall risk, but did not reduce fall frequency within the study period. These findings demonstrate the feasibility and short-term functional benefits of a staff-mediated mHealth approach to fall prevention in NH residents.

Abstract: Background: Approximately one quarter of community-dwelling older adults experience at least one fall each year. Falls can result in soft tissue injuries, fractures, or even death. Given this high prevalence, it is essential to identify fall-related risk factors, develop predictive models, and prescribe effective exercise-based interventions to prevent falls. Objective: To analyze risk factors, predictors, and therapeutic interventions for falls in older adults. Methods: A literature search was conducted in SCIELO, PUBMED, and PEDro databases between October 15–20, 2025. Inclusion criteria comprised peer-reviewed, open-access studies in English published from 2020 onward. Findings were categorized into three domains: (1) fall risk factors, (2) predictive models, and (3) exercise-based interventions. Twenty studies met the inclusion criteria. Results: Falls among older adults arise from multifactorial interactions involving physical, clinical, cognitive, and social factors such as impaired mobility, comorbidities, polypharmacy, and cognitive decline. Lower-limb strength and functional performance are key determinants of fall risk. Current predictive models show limited accuracy, with fall history as the strongest predictor. Exercise-based interventions, particularly multicomponent and home-based programs, improve balance, strength, and mobility but show variable effects on fall rates. The absence of standardized parameters for exercise prescription limits the development of evidence-based guidelines. Conclusion: Falls in older adults are multifactorial events influenced by physical and cognitive decline. Predictive models remain imprecise, and although exercise interventions improve functional outcomes, their impact on reducing falls is inconsistent. Standardized exercise protocols are needed to optimize fall prevention strategies.