International journal of sports physical therapy
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The Association Between Patient Characteristics and Pain, Physical Function, and Quality of Life Among Patients with Hip Osteoarthritis: Explorative Study with Data from a Randomized Controlled Trial

May 5, 2026

This study aimed to explore the associations between various patient characteristics and outcomes related to pain, physical function, and quality of life in individuals with hip osteoarthritis. The findings revealed that greater muscle power was linked to improved outcomes across all measures, while the use of analgesics was associated with worse pain, quality of life, and physical function. These insights may help inform tailored treatment strategies for patients with hip osteoarthritis.

Influence of Pain on Rotator Cuff Muscle Size and Function: A Case-Control Study with Ultrasound Assessment of Cross-Sectional Area and Tendon Thickness

May 5, 2026

This study aimed to investigate whether rotator cuff muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) and tendon thickness differ between painful and asymptomatic shoulders in patients with intact rotator cuff tendons. The findings revealed no significant differences in CSA or tendon thickness, suggesting that strength and endurance deficits in painful shoulders are more related to pain-mediated inhibition rather than structural atrophy. The authors recommend focusing on pain reduction and neuromuscular control in early rehabilitation efforts.

Scapular Dyskinesis, Glenohumeral Internal Rotation, and Pectoralis Minor Length in Male Elite Tennis Players

May 5, 2026

This study aimed to assess the prevalence and distribution of scapular dyskinesis (SD) in male elite tennis players and explore its relationship with glenohumeral internal rotation (IR) and pectoralis minor length (PML). The findings revealed that 70.9% of players exhibited SD, with higher grades linked to reduced IR and shorter PML. The authors suggest that the coexistence of SD and IR asymmetry should be considered in the clinical evaluation of overhead athletes.

SPORT: A Novel Biopsychosocial Framework for Chronic Low Back Pain in a Young Athlete - A Case Report

May 5, 2026

This case report investigates the effectiveness of a novel biopsychosocial framework, SPORT (Systematic Progressive Overload Rehabilitation Training), in facilitating return to sport (RTS) for a young athlete suffering from chronic low back pain (CLBP). The application of this framework led to significant improvements in strength, pain management, and sport participation over a 17-week intervention period. The authors suggest that future studies should explore the comparative efficacy of SPORT against other treatments for CLBP in young athletes.

Intra-Session Reliability of Eccentric Countermovement Jump Kinetics in Individuals Six Months After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

May 5, 2026

The authors aimed to evaluate the intra-session reliability and variability of eccentric-phase countermovement jump (CMJ) variables in physically active individuals six months post-anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). They found that Eccentric Peak Force (EPF) and Eccentric Impulse (EI) demonstrated good reliability, while Eccentric Rate of Force Development (RFD) showed moderate reliability and higher variability. These results suggest that EPF and EI may be more reliable metrics for assessing neuromuscular recovery in this population.

The International Sports Physiotherapy Competencies and Standards 2025: The SportsComp Project on Higher Education to Improve Competency in Sports Physiotherapy

May 5, 2026

The authors aimed to update the International Sports Physiotherapy Competencies and Standards, originally established in 2005, to reflect the evolving landscape of sports physiotherapy. Through a comprehensive three-phase process involving expert input and stakeholder feedback, they developed the 2025 competencies, which are designed to be relevant and applicable at a Master's level for sports physiotherapy professionals globally. The paper outlines key changes to the competencies and provides a complete list as supplementary material.

Treatment Guidelines and Decision Tree for Dry Needling Musculoskeletal Conditions: A Consensus Statement

May 5, 2026

The authors aimed to develop consensus guidelines for the application of dry needling (DN) in treating musculoskeletal dysfunction, addressing the variability in techniques and procedural parameters. Through a modified Delphi study involving expert physical therapists, they established recommendations regarding patient candidacy, treatment dosage, target tissue selection, and post-intervention strategies to enhance therapeutic outcomes. The consensus emphasizes the importance of thorough assessment and patient education to optimize the effectiveness of DN interventions.

Countermovement Jump and Quantitative Electroencephalography Assessment in Division I Football Athletes: An Exploratory Neurophysiological Study of Return‑to‑Play Readiness

May 5, 2026

This study investigates the neuromechanical and neurophysiological differences in countermovement jump (CMJ) performance between previously injured and uninjured Division I football athletes, utilizing a combination of force plate assessments and quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG). The authors aim to determine whether these multimodal assessments can reveal central nervous system contributions to performance deficits that traditional musculoskeletal evaluations might overlook. Findings indicate that injured athletes exhibit significant differences in jump metrics and cortical activation patterns, suggesting the need for further research to inform return-to-play decisions.

Therapeutic Effects of Capacitive and Resistive Monopolar Radiofrequency on Muscle Stiffness and Local Hemodynamics of the Rectus Femoris: A Randomized Crossover Study of Female University Soccer Players

May 5, 2026

The authors aimed to investigate the immediate effects of 448-kHz capacitive resistive monopolar radiofrequency (CRMF) on muscle stiffness and local hemodynamics of the rectus femoris in female collegiate soccer players. The study found that CRMF significantly reduced muscle stiffness in a stretched position and increased deep-tissue oxygenation parameters compared to hot pack and sham treatments, indicating its potential as an effective thermotherapy for enhancing muscle flexibility and oxygenation in sports settings.

Diagnostic Musculoskeletal Ultrasound in the Evaluation of the Medial Hamstrings

May 5, 2026

The authors investigate the effectiveness of diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSKUS) in evaluating medial hamstring injuries, which are prevalent among active individuals. They aim to demonstrate how MSKUS can improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning for conditions such as tendinopathy, muscle strains, and ruptures, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes in rehabilitation settings. The paper reviews the anatomy, injury mechanisms, and clinical implications of using MSKUS for these injuries.