ORCID Profile
0000-0002-1483-0561
Current Organisation
University of Southampton
Does something not look right? The information on this page has been harvested from data sources that may not be up to date. We continue to work with information providers to improve coverage and quality. To report an issue, use the Feedback Form.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-07-2010
DOI: 10.1002/MUS.21725
Abstract: Muscle dimension changes on ultrasound imaging (USI) indicate contractile activity. Quadriceps force and rectus femoris (RF) dimensions were examined to assess USI for estimating contraction level. In 15 healthy males, mean age 24.8 years, isometric quadriceps force was measured in 90° knee flexion during submaximal and maximal voluntary contractions (MVCs) and at MVC in extension. Mid-thigh cross-sectional area (CSA), depth and width, and surface electromyography (EMG) of RF were recorded. Muscle width decreased curvilinearly as both force and EMG increased. At MVC, width was 3.2 ± 0.5 cm, 25% smaller than at rest (4.4 ± 0.7 cm), and similar to MVC in extension (-23%). CSA decreased linearly to -18% at MVC. RF thickness increased by only 10% (at 30% to MVC). Similar width changes at MVC in flexion and extension indicate the clinical potential of USI for assessing quadriceps contractility. Sensitivity is limited to assessing strength to within 25% of MVC in young males.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 04-2023
Abstract: Inactive older adults tend to have decreased strength and balance compared with their more active peers. Playing golf has the potential to improve strength and balance in older adults. The aim of the study was to compare the strength and balance of recreational golfers with non-golfers, aged 65–79 years. Grip strength, single leg balance, and Y Balance Test (YBT) were assessed. Golfers ( n = 57) had significantly (right, p = .042 left, p = .047) higher maximal grip strength, than non-golfers ( n = 17). Single leg stance times were significantly longer in golfers (right, p = .021 left, p = .001). Normalized YBT reach distances were significantly greater for golfers than non-golfers for composite, posteromedial, and posterolateral directions on both right and left legs. Playing golf appears to be associated with better grip and both static and dynamic balance in 65–79 year olds, indicating that a study of the effects of playing golf is warranted through a larger, fully powered, longitudinal study.
Publisher: IOP Publishing
Date: 22-09-2014
DOI: 10.1088/0967-3334/35/10/2165
Abstract: This study aimed to use ultrasound imaging to provide objective data on the effects of ageing and gender on relative thickness of quadriceps muscle and non-contractile tissue thickness (subcutaneous fat, SF, combined with perimuscular fascia). In 136 healthy males and females (aged 18-90 years n = 63 aged 18-35 years n = 73 aged 65-90) images of the anterior thigh (dominant) were taken in relaxed supine using B-mode ultrasound imaging. Thickness of muscle, SF and perimuscular fascia were measured, and percentage thickness of total anterior thigh thickness calculated. Independent t-tests compared groups. Correlation between tissue thickness and BMI was examined using Pearson's coefficient. Muscle thickness was: 39 ± 8 mm in young males, 29 ± 6 mm in females, 25 ± 4 mm in older males and 20 ± 5 mm in females. Percentage muscle to thigh thickness was greater in young participants (p = 0.001). Percentage SF and fascia was 17 ± 6% in young and 26 ± 8% in older males, 32 ± 7% in young and 44 ± 7% in older females. BMI was similar for age and correlated moderately with non-contractile tissue (r = 0.54 p < 0.001) and poorly with muscle (r = -0.01 p = 0.93). In conclusion, this novel application of ultrasound imaging as a simple and rapid means of assessing thigh composition (relative thickness of muscle and non-contractile tissue) may help inform health status, e.g. in older people at risk of frailty and loss of mobility, and aid monitoring effects of weight loss or gain, deconditioning and exercise.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.HUMOV.2011.07.004
Abstract: The aim of the present study was to examine the acromion marker cluster (AMC) method of measuring scapular kinematics during the arm lowering, eccentric, phase. Twenty six participants completed arm elevation and lowering in the sagittal, frontal and scapular plane. The participants held their arm at 30° increments while the orientation of the scapula was recorded using an AMC and a scapular locator (SL). There were no significant differences between the AMC and SL during the lowering phase for sagittal and scapular plane arm movements. The AMC significantly underestimated upward rotation (max RMSE = 6.0°), and significantly overestimated posterior tilt (max RMSE = 7.2°) during arm lowering in the frontal plane. The reported root mean square errors, however, were within the ranges observed during the elevation phase and reported in previous literature. The AMC therefore provides a reasonable description of scapular kinematics during the arm lowering phase.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 07-02-2017
Publisher: Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy (JOSPT)
Date: 2013
Abstract: Cross-sectional, case-control study. To measure and compare the resting thickness of the 4 abdominal wall muscles, their associated perimuscular connective tissue (PMCT), and interrecti distance (IRD) in persons with and without lumbopelvic pain (LPP), using ultrasound imaging. The muscles and PMCT of the abdominal wall assist in controlling the spine. Functional deficits of the abdominal wall muscles have been detected in populations with LPP. Investigations of the abdominal wall in those with LPP are primarily concerned with muscle, most commonly the transversus abdominis (TrA) and internal oblique (IO). Because the abdominal wall functions as a unit, all 4 abdominal muscles and their associated connective tissues should be considered concurrently. B-mode ultrasound imaging was used to measure the resting thickness of the rectus abdominis (RA), external oblique, IO, and TrA muscles the PMCT planes and IRD in 50 male and female subjects, 25 with and 25 without LPP (mean ± SD age, 36.3 ± 9.4 and 46.6 ± 8.0 years, respectively). Univariate correlation analysis was used to identify covariates. Analyses of covariance (ANCOVAs) and the Kruskal-Wallis test (IRD) were used to compare cohorts (α = .05). The LPP cohort had less total abdominal muscle thickness (LPP mean ± SD, 18.9 ± 3.0 mm control, 20.3 ± 3.0 mm ANCOVA adjusted for body mass index, P = .03), thicker PMCT (LPP, 5.5 ± 0.2 mm control, 4.3 ± 0.2 mm ANCOVA adjusted for body mass index, P = .007), and wider IRD (LPP, 11.5 ± 2.0 mm control, 8.4 ± 1.8 mm Kruskal-Wallis, P = .005). Analysis of in idual muscle thickness revealed no difference in the external oblique, IO, and TrA, but a thinner RA in the LPP cohort (LPP mean ± SD, 7.8 ± 1.5 mm control, 9.1 ± 1.2 mm ANCOVA adjusted for body mass index, P<.001). To our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the morphological characteristics of all 4 abdominal muscles and PMCT in in iduals with LPP. The results suggest that there may be altered loading of the PMCT and linea alba secondary to an altered motor control strategy involving a reduced contribution of the RA. Further, the change in RA and connective tissue morphology may be more evident than changes in external oblique, IO, and TrA thickness in persons with LPP. The causes and functional implications of these changes warrant further investigation, as does the role of the RA muscle in the development and persistence of LPP.
Publisher: MyJove Corporation
Date: 10-02-2015
DOI: 10.3791/51717
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 12-2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.MSKSP.2017.11.010
Abstract: Cross-sectional repeated measures. To quantify the effects of posture and measurement site on the inter-recti distance (IRD) and investigate the reliability of IRD measurement using ultrasound imaging in different postures. The linea alba connects the rectus abdominis muscles anteriorly and the width is known as the IRD. The IRD is usually measured in crook-lying and is the primary outcome measure to assess for a arication of recti abdominis (DRA). The effects of posture and measurement site on the IRD have not been investigated. Ultrasound imaging was used to measure IRD in 41 women ≥8 weeks postpartum. The IRD was measured at three sites (superior-umbilicus, umbilicus and inferior-umbilicus), in three postures (crook-lying, sitting and standing), and repeated one-week later. The effects of posture and site were investigated using one-way ANOVAs. Reliability was analysed using Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), Bland Altman analyses, standard error of measurement and minimal detectable change. The IRD was wider when standing vs. lying at both the superior-umbilicus and umbilicus by 0.30 cm (95% CI 0.21 to 0.39) and 0.20 cm (0.11-0.30) respectively (p < 0.001). Measurements at the inferior-umbilicus were, on average, 1.6 and 2.1 cm narrower than superior-umbilicus and umbilicus sites, respectively (p < 0.001). There was high intra-rater reliability within-session (ICC The IRD can be measured reliably at all sites and postures. The IRD is wider at superior-umbilicus and umbilicus when upright compared with lying. There is a difference in IRD between all sites measured.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2008
DOI: 10.1080/03091900701695533
Abstract: The aim of the study was to determine whether different ultrasound probe/transducer configurations produce the same measurements. Two investigators undertook 10 scans of a general purpose semi-solid multi-tissue ultrasound phantom (phantom A) using two ultrasound scanners with a linear and curvilinear probe. From those 10 scans, two measurements of cross-sectional area (CSA), width and thickness were made. These measurements were then repeated with an open-top fluid-filled phantom, with 10% ethanol solution (phantom B). Intra- and inter-rater reliability were examined using Bland and Altman plots. Agreement between measurements made with the two probe types was also assessed using Bland and Altman plots. An independent s les t-test was used to compare statistical differences between probe type configuration. There was a significant difference (p < 0.05) and a tendency for increased measurements in CSA and width, and decreased measurements in thickness when using a curvilinear probe on phantom A, and these differences were not scanner specific. When imaging phantom B there were no significant differences in measurements between probe configurations however there was a small bias for smaller CSA measurements with a curvilinear probe. In conclusion there are small differences in measurements obtained from different ultrasound probe configurations using a semi-solid phantom, but their clinical significance is unknown.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.ULTRASMEDBIO.2010.04.020
Abstract: Clinical use of ultrasound imaging by physiotherapists is increasing however, the clinical setting may be problematic due to variability inherent in the environment. As transducer motion interferes with accurate measurement, this study aimed to measure handheld transducer motion, relative to the pelvis, during a clinical simulation involving typical maneuvers employed in a physiotherapy assessment of the lumbopelvic region. Transducer motion about three axes and through one plane was measured (Vicon, Oxford, UK) on 12 participants during three clinical maneuvers at four abdominal imaging sites. Data were grouped and means used to determine discrepancies in transducer and pelvic motion for each imaging site/maneuver combination. None of the conditions produced large transducer motions relative to the pelvis and all findings were within previously established guidelines for acceptable amounts of transducer motion. These findings suggest that an ultrasound transducer can be held relatively stationary in a clinical setting, for the maneuvers tested.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 24-07-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.ARCHGER.2015.09.011
Abstract: Age and gender effects on muscle tone and mechanical properties have not been studied using hand-held myometric technology. Monitoring changes in muscle properties with ageing in community settings may provide a valuable assessment tool for detecting those at risk of premature decline and sarcopenia. This study aimed to provide objective data on the effects of ageing and gender on muscle tone and mechanical properties of quadriceps (rectus femoris) and biceps brachii muscles. In a comparative study of 123 healthy males and females (aged 18-90 years n=61 aged 18-35 n=62 aged 65-90) muscle tone, elasticity and stiffness were measured using the MyotonPRO device. Stiffness was greater and elasticity lower in older adults for BB and RF (p<0.001). Tone was significantly greater in older adults for BB but not for RF when data for males and females were combined (p=0.28). There were no gender differences for BB in either age group. In RF, males had greater stiffness (young males 292 vs females 233 N/m older males 328 vs females 311 N/m) and tone (young 16.4 vs 13.6 Hz older 16.7 vs 14.9 Hz). Elasticity in RF was lower in young males than females but did not differ between the older groups (both males and females log decrement 1.6). Stiffness and tone increased with ageing and elasticity decreased. These findings have implications for detecting frailty using a novel biomarker. Age and gender differences are important to consider when assessing effects of pathological conditions on muscle properties in older people.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.ULTRASMEDBIO.2009.05.018
Abstract: The use of ultrasound imaging (USI) by physiotherapists to assess muscle behavior in clinical settings is increasing. However, there is relatively little evidence of whether the clinical environment is conducive to valid and reliable measurements. Accurate USI measurements depend on maintaining a relatively stationary transducer position, because motion may distort the image and lead to erroneous conclusions. This would seem particularly important during dynamic studies typical of a physiotherapy assessment. What is not known is how much transducer motion can occur before error is introduced. The aim of this study is to shed some light on this question. Eight healthy volunteers (19 to 52 y) participated. USI images were taken of the lateral abdominal wall (LAW) and bladder base (midline suprapubic) at various manually induced transducer orientations (approximately -10 to 10 degrees about 3 axes of rotation), which were quantified by a digital optical motion capture system. Measurements of transversus abdominis (TrA) thickness and bladder base position (cranial /caudal and anterior osterior) were calculated. Repeated measures analysis of variance was performed to determine if the measurements obtained at the induced transducer orientations were statistically different (p<0.05) from an image corresponding to a reference or starting transducer orientation. Motion analysis data corresponding to measurements that did not differ from reference image measurements were summarized to provide a range of acceptable transducer motion (relative to the pelvis) for clockwise (CW)/counter-clockwise (CCW) rotation, cranial/caudal tilting, medial/lateral tilting and inward/outward displacement. There were no significant changes in TrA thickness measurements if CW/CCW transducer motion was <9 degrees and cranial/caudal or medial/lateral transducer tilting was <5 degrees . Further, there were no significant changes in measurements of bladder base position if CW/CCW transducer motion was <10 degrees , cranial/caudal or medial/lateral transducer tilting was <10 degrees and 8 degrees , respectively and inward/outward motion was <8 mm. These findings provide guidance on acceptable amounts of transducer motion relative to the pelvis when generating measurements of TrA thickness and bladder base position. Future sonographic studies and clinical assessment investigating these parameters could take these findings into account to improve imaging technique reliability.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 25-03-2021
DOI: 10.3390/JCM10071352
Abstract: A novel approach to ageing studies assessed the discriminatory ability of a combination of routine physical function tests and novel measures, notably muscle mechanical properties and thigh composition (ultrasound imaging) to classify healthy in iduals according to age and gender. The cross-sectional study included 138 community-dwelling, self-reported healthy males and females (65 young, mean age ± SD = 25.7 ± 4.8 years 73 older, 74.9 ± 5.9 years). Handgrip strength quadriceps strength respiratory peak flow timed up and go stair climbing time anterior thigh tissue thickness muscle stiffness, tone, elasticity (Myoton technology), and self-reported health related quality of life (SF36) were assessed. Stepwise feature selection using cross-validation with linear discriminant analysis was used to classify cases based on criterion variable derived from known effects of age on physical function. A model was trained and features selected using 126 cases with 0.92 accuracy (95% CI = 0.86–0.96 Kappa = 0.89). The final model included five features (peak flow, timed up and go, biceps brachii elasticity, anterior thigh muscle thickness, and percentage thigh muscle) with high sensitivity (0.82–0.96) and specificity (0.94–0.99). The most sensitive novel biomarkers require no volition, highlighting potentially useful tests for screening and monitoring effects of interventions on musculoskeletal health for vulnerable older people with pain or cognitive impairment.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.MATH.2011.07.001
Abstract: Evidence is currently lacking for guidance on ultrasound transducer configuration (shape) when imaging muscle to measure its size. This study compared measurements made of lumbar multifidus on images obtained using curvilinear and linear transducers. Fifteen asymptomatic males (aged 21-32 years) had their right lumbar multifidus imaged at L3. Two transverse images were taken with two transducers (5 MHz curvilinear and 6 MHz linear), and linear and cross-sectional area (CSA) measurements were made off-line. Reliability of image interpretation was shown using intra-class correlation coefficients (0.78-0.99). Muscle measurements were compared between transducers using Bland and Altman plots and paired t-tests. Relationships between CSA and linear measurements were examined using Pearson's Correlation Coefficients. There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in the measurements of the two transducers. Thickness and CSA measurements had small differences between transducers, with mean differences of 0.01 cm (SDdiff = 0.21 cm) and 0.03 cm(2) (SDdiff = 0.58 cm(2)) respectively. Width measures had a mean difference of 0.14 cm, with the linear transducer giving larger measures. Significant correlations (p < 0.001) were found between all linear measures and CSA, with both transducers (r = 0.78-0.89). Measurements of multifidus at L3 were not influenced by the configuration of transducers of similar frequency. For the purposes of image interpretation, the curvilinear transducer produced better definition of the lateral muscle border, suggesting it as the preferable transducer for imaging lumbar multifidus.
Location: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Location: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
No related grants have been discovered for Martin Warner.