Radial ESWT combined with a specific rehabilitation program (rESWT+RP) is more effective than sham rESWT+RP for acute hamstring muscle complex injury type 3b: a randomized, controlled trial
Acute type 3b injuries of the hamstring muscle complex (HMC) are prevalent in sports, often lead to prolonged recovery, and demonstrate a high recurrence. Conservative rehabilitation is standard, and adjunct therapies such as radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy (rESWT) may offer additional benefits.
The effectiveness of digital training on screening, brief interventions, and referral to treatment (SBIRT) for medical and health professionals: a systematic review
The effectiveness of digital SBIRT training for improving knowledge/competence and confidence for health promotion, behavioural and/or health outcomes is not established. We aimed to conduct a systematic review examining the effectiveness of digital training for medical and health professionals on screening, brief interventions, and referral to treatment (SBIRT), on knowledge of the health condition/behaviours, their treatments, and onwards referral to services, and/or changes in attitude, skills, or confidence to promote health.
Determination of the role of aerobic and anaerobic training at different altitude on hypoxia-induced factor 1, hemoglobin, iron, erythropoietin, hepcidin, and nitric oxide
Altitude training is a well-established strategy for improving athletic performance, particularly in endurance sports. Hypoxic exposure induces physiological adaptations through oxygen sensing and erythropoietic mechanisms. However, the comparative effects of aerobic and anaerobic training on hematological and biochemical markers under different altitude conditions have not yet been adequately investigated.
PTSD and complex PTSD, current treatments and debates: a review of reviews
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were published in 2018, based on research up until that point. In this review, we summarize the current state of the evidence and discuss the findings of systematic reviews and meta-analyses published between 2019 and 2024.
Long lives, poor health? A comprehensive review of the evidence among international migrants
Empirical evidence on migrant morbidity suggests that migrant populations have a higher burden of disease compared to non-migrants in high-income destination countries. Yet, empirical evidence on migrant mortality typically shows a lower risk of death compared to non-migrants. Migrants might be living longer lives in worse health-a 'migrant "morbidity-mortality" paradox'.
The role of healthcare providers in sustainable return-to-work for individuals with common mental disorders
Many individuals with common mental disorders (CMDs) face challenges after returning to work following sickness absence. Healthcare providers and healthcare systems are well-placed to provide returnees with support which can facilitate sustainable return-to-work.
Antipsychotic drugs at 75: the past, present, and future of psychosis management
The discovery of chlorpromazine in 1950 marked a turning point in psychiatry, and, for the first time, effective pharmacological treatments for psychosis became widely used. Over the following decades, antipsychotics became the cornerstone of schizophrenia treatment, yet their fundamental mechanism-dopamine D2 receptor antagonism-has remained largely unchanged. Now, 75 years on, novel drug classes and advances in mechanistic understanding are reshaping the field.
AI chatbots versus human healthcare professionals: a systematic review and meta-analysis of empathy in patient care
Empathy is widely recognized for improving patient outcomes, including reduced pain and anxiety and improved satisfaction, and its absence can cause harm. Meanwhile, use of artificial intelligence (AI)-based chatbots in healthcare is rapidly expanding, with one in five general practitioners using generative AI to assist with tasks such as writing letters. Some studies suggest AI chatbots can outperform human healthcare professionals (HCPs) in empathy, though findings are mixed and lack synthesis.
Are hiking recommendations one-size-fits-all? Insights into cardiovascular safety and trail demands
Hiking is an outdoor activity with not only significant health benefits but also associated risks, especially for individuals with cardiovascular conditions. Current trail recommendations lack personalization, potentially increasing the risk of adverse events during hiking.
A review of occupational noise-induced hearing loss: focus on mechanisms and preventive measures
This research investigates the epidemiology, underlying mechanisms, and prevention strategies associated with occupational noise-induced hearing loss (ONIHL), while also presenting effective control measures.
Effects of recreational football on body composition and blood pressure in sedentary older men: a feasibility study
Hypertension is a critical health risks that significantly affect the quality of life in older adults. Physical activity programs tailored to the needs of specific populations have proven effective in mitigating these risks.
Retention of the infrapatellar fat pad does not influence the outcome of total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review
To improve patient satisfaction after total knee arthroplasty (TKA), retention of the infrapatellar fat pad (IPFP) is advocated.
Physiological limb tremor modulation by physical exertion: a systematic review and meta-analysis in healthy adults
Physiological tremor is a low-amplitude, high-frequency oscillation of body segments influenced by both mechanical and neurogenic factors. Its modulation by physical exertion has emerged as a potential indicator of neuromuscular fatigue in healthy individuals.
Sport and health science: interdisciplinary approaches to modern challenges
Sport and health science are undergoing a transformative shift driven by interdisciplinary approaches, technological innovations, and data-driven strategies.
Boredom and self-control in adolescent athletes: preventing non-contact mechanical fatigue-related anterior cruciate ligament injuries, a commentary
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries from the accumulated micro-trauma that precedes non-contact mechanical fatigue-related failure in adolescent athletes are increasing. This commentary aims to increase the understanding about how boredom may provide a self-control development stimulus which, in addition to modified sport training, may decrease non-contact ACL injuries.
All-inside arthroscopic procedures for chronic lateral ankle instability: evidence-based clinical practice guidelines
All-inside arthroscopic procedures are now frequently employed to manage chronic lateral ankle instability (CLAI) with satisfactory functional outcomes. Currently, no evidence-based guidelines exist for all-inside arthroscopic procedures for CLAI. Many surgical decisions remain uncertain and challenging.
Clinical practice guidelines for rehabilitation following surgical management of chronic lateral ankle instability: enhancing recovery based on available evidence
Rehabilitation is a crucial component of comprehensive disease management and functional recovery. Despite advancements in surgical techniques for chronic lateral ankle instability (CLAI), there is still a lack of standardized, evidence-based rehabilitation protocols.
Current perspectives on the mental health of UK military personnel and veterans
This narrative review sets out to explore the current literature surrounding the mental health of serving personnel and veterans.
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy for erectile dysfunction: rethinking study design, implementation, and analysis
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) for erectile dysfunction (ED) presents a challenging paradox. While numerous clinical studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses have been published, indicating a substantial body of evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of ESWT, significant questions remain. Notably, the American Urological Association (AUA) continues to classify ESWT for ED as investigational (Evidence Level: Grade C), suggesting that the true therapeutic effect of ESWT may differ considerably from current estimates. This review aims to critically assess the evidence and propose strategies to address this unresolved discrepancy.
Loaded marches: the military safe and effective tool to combat readiness
Loaded ruck marching is a common workout and selection tool for military schools.
Neuroplastic periodization in tendinopathy
Periodized rehabilitation for tendinopathies integrates principles of athletic training into structured protocols to optimize tendon healing and functional recovery minimizing recurrence. This review explores the role of concurrent and phasic periodization strategies in tendon rehabilitation, focusing on optimizing strength, power, and neuromuscular control.
