Tag: McNeil H

Alexa Berry

Return to Play Rate after UCL Reconstruction: Tommy John Surgery

The ulnar collateral ligament is the most important soft tissue stabilizer during the overhead throw of a baseball pitcher. UCL reconstruction occurs when there is a complete UCL tears due to injury and this is a surgery to repair the torn UCL, it is also known as Tommy John Surgery. This project focused on determining if an athlete should receive Tommy John Surgery. Many different research articles were examined to determine the findings. There is a high return to play rate, but at the cost of performance levels decreasing. The decision to return to play depends on what the athlete wants and if they are okay with their performance declining for the remainder of their career. 

EXSC 425, Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

S100

1130 AM – Noon

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Arjuna Chotu

Prevention of Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome

Medial tibial Stress Syndrome is a common injury that occurs upon repetitive loading of stress near the posteromedial border of the tibia. Several athletes experience this injury but there is no guaranteed method of treatment. It is well established that there are several ways of treating the injury but the research is inconclusive to which method is the most prevalent. This study aims to determine whether the prevention option of strengthening the muscles around the tibia can lead to reduced pain of the medial tibial stress syndrome. Various studies have shown that strengthening can reduce the pain and cushion the load from the overuse and repetitive load of the muscles around the shin splint site. Studies that observed the overused muscles stated similar findings; muscles of the ankle inverter, evertors, and soleus were being overused and in order to cushion the load, it needed to be strengthened. As there is evidence to support that this method does serve a purpose, there is still uncertainty to which individual certain muscles need to be strengthened to insure the security of the pain. Nevertheless, strengthening should occur if an individual is experiencing medial tibial stress syndrome and other potential treatment options can be considered as well.

EXSC 320, Exercise Physiology and Neuromuscular Conditioning

Heike McNeil

S100

11 – 11:30 AM

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Sierra Coloma

Hamstring tendon graft vs. Bone Patella Tendon graft for ACL reconstruction

ACL Repair: Patellar Tendon graft or Hamstring Tendon graft? The dominant answer for this question is that it is ultimately up to patient characteristics and surgeon preference when looking to repair a torn ACL surgically. Previous research compares both the Patellar Tendon graft to the Hamstring Tendon graft which are the two most common autografts one could get in ACL reconstruction surgery, although no literature has made a definitive conclusion that one is more favorable than the other. I used my personal experience having had one of each graft in either leg and three very specific case studies to make a claim that one graft may in actuality be more favorable than the other. Contrary to what is most regularly assumed in literature, when specifically analyzing knee laxity, pivot shift and rupture rate, Patellar tendon may be slightly better. My findings indicated that there is no one graft that is largely better than the other, but that research and my personal experience indicates that Patellar tendon grafts could lead to better outcomes overall.

EXSC 425, Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injuries 

Heike McNeil

Noon – 12:30 PM

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Christoph Mai

Injury Risk on Artificial Turf vs Gras in Soccer Players

The topic of injury risk on artificial grass in comparison to normal grass is important to soccer players as many players perceive that artificial grass leads to a higher chance of injury, greater joint and muscle soreness, and a longer recovery time. An ACL tear is the most common season-ending injury in soccer players and is therefore used as an example to show the difference between artificial grass and normal grass. There is evidence that playing on artificial grass can increase the risk of sustaining an ACL injury. Multiple studies compared the injuries sustained on artificial and normal grass in elite or college-level soccer players from the US or Europe. Those studies found different results, while more studies said that there is no difference seen in injury risk between the newest generation of artificial grass and normal grass.   

EXSC 425, Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injuries 

Heike McNeil

S100

12:30 – 1 PM

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Brittany Ralston

Ankle Taping vs Ankle Bracing in the Athletic Community 

Introduction: The lateral ankle sprain (LAS) is one of the most common injures of the lower extremity with nearly 2 million people affected annually by LAS in the United States alone. Research needs to be done in order to determine whether ankle taping or ankle bracing is better for an individual who has sustained a LAS injury. 

Hypothesis: Before any research was conducted, it was hypothesized that ankle taping would be more beneficial to the athlete after sustaining a lateral ankle sprain. On the other hand, the assumption that the soft ankle brace would be more advantageous to the active individual when used as a prophylactic measure was also hypothesized. 

Methods: Systematic review of the lateral ankle sprain with a focus on ankle bracing and ankle taping. 

Results: Braces may have a detrimental effect on lower extremity’s ability to attenuate vertical ground reaction forces during a landing exercise (2). Individuals with chronic ankle instability displayed motor control instability bilaterally (7). Low hip abductor strength increased the risk of future injury within athletes (10). The application of the semi-rigid brace led to reductions in inversion angles during injury relevant movements (3). Collegiate athletes with previous history of ankle sprains have a greater predisposition to LAS (8). Tape and lace-up braces provided equal range of motion and stability (12). 

Conclusion: Range of motion within the ankle joint is limited through both ankles taping and ankle bracing tactics. Personal preference of the athlete should be held in high regard when choosing between methods of ankle stabilization.

EXSC 425, Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injuries 

Heike McNeil

S100

1 – 1:30 PM

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Magie Woginrich

Prevention of Shoulder Injuries Among Track & Field Throwers

The glenohumeral joint, also known as the shoulder, is one of the most important factors in a javelin throw. The shoulder is one of the most mobile joints in the body and also one of the most unstable. Because of the shoulder instability, shoulder injuries are one of the most common in the javelin athlete. This project is going to be looking for different exercises or physical training an athlete can do to minimize their risk for shoulder injury. Numerous research articles were reviewed to determine the best possible way to prevent these types of injuries. Strengthening the rotator cuff muscles and monitoring external and internal rotation range of motion are the main findings of this research.

EXSC 425, Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

S100

1:30 – 2:00 PM

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Honors Convocation

Click here to view the convocation at noon!

Welcome & Devotion: Dennis R. Lindsay

Arts & Sciences

  • Outstanding Psychology Major: Mary Ann Winter-Messiers
  • Outstanding Speaker Award: Doyle Srader
  • Gardiepy-Peloquin Communication Scholar Award: Kelsay (Gardiepy) Rychener
  • Outstanding Graduating Exercise Science Student: Heike McNeil
  • CLIO History Award: Melisa Ortiz Berry

Library

  • Library Research Award: Steve Silver

Music & Performing Arts

  • NCU University Choir & Orchestra: “Amazing Grace”
  • Outstanding Music Graduate Award: Karen De Young
  • Outstanding Christian Worship Graduate Award: Karen De Young

Christian Ministry

  • The William T. Siefke Evangelism & Church Growth Award: Troy Dean
  • The Siefke Preaching Scholarship Award: AJ Swoboda
  • The Siefke Potential for Preaching Scholarship Award: Doyle Srader
  • Stone Campbell Journal Promising Scholar Award: Agam Iheanyi-Igwe
  • Zondervan Biblical Language Award: Melisa Ortiz Berry
  • Robert Sullivan Family Award for Creativity in Ministry: Keith Potter

Teacher Education

  • Excellence in Teaching: Kathy Owen
  • Outstanding Teacher Leadership: Kathy Owen
  • Excellence in Master of Teaching: Kathy Owen
  • Outstanding Master of Teaching Leadership: Kathy Owen
  • Excellence in School Counseling: Kathy Owen
  • Outstanding School Leadership: Kathy Owen

Student Development

  • Chi Alpha Sigma Initiates: Sarah Freeman
  • Student Leader of the Year: Michael Fuller
  • ASNCU Senior of the Year: Katia Burke
  • ASNCU Faculty of the Year: Katia Burke
  • ASNCU Staff Member of the Year: Katia Burke

Closing Words and Benediction: President Womack

Noon – 1 PM

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Joshua McCluskey

Comparing the effects of different classes of medication in the management of hypertension 

The diagnosis of hypertension is common and treatment is frequently viewed as very simple. Treating hypertension takes more than just lowering the blood pressure of an individual. There are comorbidities that affect and are affected by the treatment of hypertension: kidney disease and cardiovascular disease. In this review we discuss the different preferences of using either Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, Calcium Channel blockers, Beta Blockers, and Diuretics when managing hypertension with the use of medications. It appears that Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors were preferential to the management of kidney disease secondary to hypertension. Calcium channel blockers were additionally found to have an advantage with many cardiovascular diseases while beta blockers were also considered for cardiovascular issues including atrial fibrillation and tachycardia specifically. Beta blockers and Diuretics had minute differences in secondary management of cardiovascular disease and kidney disease when compared. 

CHEM 415, Biochemistry 

Heike McNeil 

P114 

11:30 AM – Noon 

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Anna Brooks

Prevalence of Concussions in High School Football and Strategies for Prevention
Football players are at high risk of sports-related concussions (SRC), and athletes ages 15 to 19 years are most commonly affected. To preserve young athletes’ long term cognitive function and overall well-being while also prolonging their careers, prevention at the high school level is imperative. The purpose of this literature review is to assess and address prevention strategies of SRC in high school football.
In this presentation, the research of SRC prevention strategies in football will be critiqued, specifically focusing on helmet design versus neck strengthening. Improved helmet technology has not proven to be the most effective tool for preventing concussion, yet most resources are allocated in this area of research. Concussed athletes, however, have demonstrated significantly less neck strength than athletes who did not sustain a concussion. Therefore, it will be argued that implementing neck strengthening to high school football programs is a more effective concussion prevention strategy than consistent helmet upgrades.
EXSC 425, Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury
Heike McNeil
P103
1 – 1:30 PM
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Madison Jones

Rotator cuff stresses in baseball and softball and why there should be pitch counts in both
The purpose this literature review is to demonstrate that softball and baseball pitching place a very similar amount of stress on the rotator cuff. The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles that help hold together the shoulder joint and provide the athlete the stability as well as the mobility necessary to perform the pitching motion. Resisting glenohumeral distraction is one of the biggest stresses seen within both pitching motions – this means that the muscles within the shoulder, especially the rotator cuff, are not allowing separation or pulling apart of the glenohumeral joint (shoulder joint). The repetitiveness of each pitching motion creates overuse injuries within the rotator cuff. In this literature review, it was concluded that the main cause of stress within the softball as well as the baseball pitching motions is the resistance of the glenohumeral distraction, and that the stresses within both sports are indeed similar. Therefore, softball should have pitch count regulations just as baseball does – and it seems like a major oversight to implement rules to protect athletes in baseball but have no such rules for softball players.
EXSC 425, Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury
Heike McNeil
P103
1:30 – 2 PM
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Emily Moon

Importance of Physical Therapy for Cerebral Palsy Patients
Cerebral Palsy is the most common disability in childhood. It is caused by damage to the brain and affects more than 17 million people worldwide. The effects of cerebral palsy include joint deformities and changes in muscle tone and muscular development. This eventually causes lifelong gait problems. In the past, invasive surgery has been the most common treatment for patients with cerebral palsy. In this literature review, new research is presented that shows success using physical therapy. Gait stability treatment through physical therapy has been found to help patients as it allows them to live a relatively normal life. In this presentation, the importance of physical therapy for patients with cerebral palsy through flexibility, mobility, and strengthening exercises as well as new virtual techniques that are being implemented into the treatment, will be discussed.
EXSC 425, Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury
Heike McNeil
P103
2 – 2:30 PM
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Melissa Rios

The Effect of the Co-activation of the Hamstrings and Quadriceps on the Anterior Cruciate Ligament
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury is one of the most common serious injuries to the knee. Mechanisms of ACL noncontact tears are still inconclusive from an epidemiological standpoint but have been associated with noncontact rotatory forces associated with planting, cutting, and landing in a valgus position, with a hyperextension mechanism, and finally by a violent contraction of the quadriceps, which pulls the tibia forward and tears the ACL. The purpose of this presentation is to investigate the effect of the co-activation of the hamstrings and quadriceps on vulnerability of the ACL. Both of these muscle groups contribute significantly to the integrity of the ACL. This work was done as part of a literature review; research clearly indicates that co-contraction of the hamstrings and quadriceps muscles will significantly decrease the in-situ forces and strain rates induced on the ACL. If the co-activation of these two muscle groups do indeed decrease the strain experienced in the ACL, preventative as well as rehabilitative programs for the ACL should at the very least include hamstring strength exercises.
EXSC 425, Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury
Heike McNeil
P103
2:30 – 3 PM
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Bryce Branagan-Franco

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS), which is also known as Runner’s Knee or anterior knee pain, is one of the most common overuse injuries in the lower extremity. PFPS is commonly found in individuals who are involved in high impact athletic activities, and is especially common in female athletes.Though it is known for being one of the most common knee injuries, no one has been able to specify its main cause. PFPS is normally treated by rest, ice, medication, taping, physical therapy and in severe cases surgery. Though there are many different ways to treat PFPS, treatment is not always guaranteed to work and can potentially end an individuals career in their particular sport or activity. This presentation will examine multiple studies, in order to shine light on possible causes of PFPS and will briefly discuss treatment methods.

EXSC 425 Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

PFB 103

Noon – 12:30 PM

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Macie Gale

Biomechanics and Rehabilitation Methods of Concussed Football Players

Of all sports played in the US, American football is the sport associated with the greatest number of traumatic brain injuries, and also has the largest number of participants. However, due to players’ reluctance to admit concussion, these statistics may even be underestimated. In order to fully understand this epidemic one needs to consider the biomechanics involved in the injury. This presentation aims to explain the biomechanics of concussion, shine light on the incidences of reoccurring injuries, and will conclude with modern rehabilitation techniques.

EXSC 425 Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

PFB 103

11:30 AM – Noon

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Alleya Harris

The Effect of Lower Limb Biomechanics on Lower Back Pain

Link theory states that structures further from the ground (such as the hips and back) are affected by the lower limb’s structure and ability to handle force efficiently. It is this theory that fuels the model for low back pain (LBP) which implicates the feet in causing biomechanical disruptions that lead the back to hurt. However, the research published about this theory is vastly divergent. For the sake of this discussion, three different views are singled out. The first is in support of the model that the feet cause LBP based on evidence from trials performed in practical treatment settings. The second also affirms the model although more cautiously. In this case the evidence comes from studies done in laboratory settings. The third negates the model based on studies performed in laboratory settings that provide evidence that clearly disproves any correlation. This presentation aims to give an encompassing view of the topic by including representative research supporting each of the different viewpoints and also to reveal that, in the end, each individual’s case is different and needs to be thoroughly evaluated.

EXC 425 Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

PFB 103

10:00 – 10:30 AM

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Garrett Kraal

The Biomechanics of the Running Gait and Hamstring Injuries

Different types of hamstring injuries can be seen in many different sports and activities, sports such as track and field, soccer, football and rugby are the leaders amongst them. The prevalence and occurrence of hamstring muscle injuries can be very frustrating due to their prolonged effects, slow rehabilitation and high re-occurrence rates. There is much controversy surrounding the question why hamstring injuries display these attributes. Gait analysis can help us understand the hamstring muscle complex a little better. Gait analysis methods have enabled us to prevent muscle injuries and improve post-injury rehabilitation methods. The purpose of this talk is to investigate the anatomical/biomechanical characteristics of the hamstring muscle complex (HMC) using gait analysis. The presentation will explain where and when in the gait cycle hamstring injuries are likely to occur, the types of contractions taking place, quadriceps/hamstring torque ratios in reference to the HMC, as well as running economy.

EXSC 425 Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

PFB 103

10:30 – 11:00 AM

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Marsha Poischbeg

Subacromial Bursitis in Overhead Athletes

Shoulder injuries are extremely common in overhead athletes. One of the most common injuries, especially in volleyball players, is subacromial bursitis or subacromial impingement syndrome. This injury is accompanied by pain and a limited range of motion. However, if subacromial bursitis is not treated in the early stages, chronic pain and permanent structural damage to the shoulder can develop. This review provides insight into the mechanisms of this injury as well as treatment methods. These methods include steroid injections, taping methods and exercises that are be beneficial in returning the athlete to play at their full potential. The final piece of this review looks at preventative measures which can be taken to avoid such injury.

EXC 425 Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

PFB 103

11:00 – 11:30 AM

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Alek Angeli

The Affects of Arch Structure on Lower Extremity Injuries

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of high and low foot arch structures on lower leg extremity injuries and running mechanics. Much of the research focuses on how differences in arch structure can influence distribution of impact forces in undesired areas of the lower extremities. An analysis of research articles involving arch structure, foot strike patterns, and ranges of motion were observed in an attempt to associate injury patterns with arch structure. From the research it appears that individuals with either high or low arches experience some form of susceptibility to a lower extremity injury.

EXSC 407, Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

Vladyslav Boloban

Inversion Ankle Sprain Injuries

The purpose of this paper is to review several studies on the inversion ankle sprain injuries in order to understand what happens during an ankle sprain. The studies that are reviewed are focused on the injury assessment, predictive /causing factors, kinematics of the ankle injury, and long term outcomes. It’s concluded that inversion ankle sprains are much more complicated than they seem. Some people are more prone to ankle injuries due to their foot structure. The amount of the damage to the ligaments varies depending on the injury, the symptoms of which can last for long periods of time.

EXSC 407, Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

Alyssa Dorr

Meniscus Injury, Repair & Rehabilitation

The results of a literature review that addresses the anatomy and etiology of meniscus injury is presented. The variability between different repair and rehabilitation methods of a torn meniscus are addressed. Different outcomes from meniscus repair, partial meniscectomy, and physical therapy were evaluated in attempt to find the best results in terms of recovery time and longterm knee function. The literature researched concluded that meniscus repair with accelerated rehabilitation provided the best overall results; this treatment was found to allow for positive long-term functionality in a recovery timespan based on the individual. Protective mechanisms after meniscal repair evidenced little benefit compared to duration of immobility.

EXSC 407, Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

Emily Kaelin

Bone Fractures in Boys with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Bone fractures are a significant health problem for boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Not only are DMD patients at risk for bone fractures, but fractures can be more detrimental to quality of life in DMD patients than in healthy individuals. The purpose of this review was to examine the relationship between DMD and fracture risks and mechanisms. Eight studies were reviewed, each focusing on physiological and biomechanical factors that predispose individuals with DMD for bone fractures. The studies concluded that muscle weakness and reduced bone mineral density are major contributing factors toward bone fractures in individuals with DMD.

EXSC 407, Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

Taylor Kraal

Achilles Tendon Injury

The purpose of this review was to look at the biomechanics and pathology related to Achilles tendonitis and to explore the treatment options necessary for recovery. Eight studies were examined to examine the causes of injury and proper treatment of the Achilles tendon. After carefully reviewing each of the experimental parameters, it was concluded that pool rehabilitation, insoles, physiotherapy, and eccentric calf exercises were effective forms of treatment. Although all were proven effective, it appeared that eccentric exercises showed a greater reduction in pain while increasing strength over other forms of treatment.

EXSC 407, Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

Danae Laufer

Effects of Backpack Carriage in Children and Adolescents

Back pain in adolescents is a growing concern for medical professionals and parents. During this period of accelerated growth and development of skeletal and soft tissue, additional loading of the spine puts children at risk for injury or deformities. Many studies have been reviewed which focus on a combination of weight, position, and distribution of the load, time spent carrying, and physical characteristics of the carrier. All studies examined found that backpack weight physically impacted children. However, even though there are negative effects of backpack carriage in adolescents, it has not yet been linked to serious injury or spinal deformities.

EXSC 407, Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

Madeleine Nelson

ACL Injuries in Women

Women are 4-6 times more likely to suffer form an ACL injury than their male counterparts. An in-depth literature review of peer reviewed articles from several journals such as The American Journal of Spots Medicine, was conducted to examine possible reasons that may account for this gender predisposition. Factors such as muscle recruitment patterns, decreased muscle strength, and increased quadriceps-to-hamstring ratios were considered and examined. Risk factors such as fatigue causing alteration in lower extremity landing and cutting in women particularly were evaluated in an effort to identify some of the etiological models that may explain the greater prevalence of ACL injuries in women as compared to men.

EXSC 407, Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

Madison Seevers

Prevention of Recurrent Ankle Sprains

10. Ankle sprains are the most common injury among athletes. Once a sprain occurs, athletes are more likely to suffer recurrent sprains. An literature review on ankle sprains was conducted and consisted primarily of peer reviewed journals submitted to the Journal of Athletic Training, the International Sports Medicine Journal, and The American Journal of Sports Medicine. Different treatment approaches and preventative measures were analyzed. Most of the studies reviewed concluded that proprioceptive training was the most effective method in the prevention of recurrent sprains. These different prevention approaches and their outcomes will be analyzes and recommendations will be presented.

EXSC 407, Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

Amanda Sunthonlap

Concussions and Premature Return to Play

The purpose of this review is to look at the understanding of return to play guidelines, consequences of premature return to play, and what we can do to support proper recovery in concussed athletes. Each study sought out to examine concussions and the way people understand and treat them. These studies showed that premature return to play could lead to many complications later on in life and helped us find what we can do to better promote player’s health and safety.

EXSC 407, Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

Katie Walker

Rotator Cuff Injuries in Overhead-Throwing Athletes

Shoulder injuries in overhead-throwing sports like baseball and softball are the single most common injury sustained. Over 30% of athletes will develop a shoulder injury in their careers. This review draws information from a number of studies retrieved from peer reviewed journals and evaluates the best treatment options for returning an athlete back to the field. It also looks at the best ways to prevent further injuries after repair. Surgery was found to be the best option in repair, but ultimately it is more effective to begin preventing injury by building up the proper strength needed in the rotator cuff.

EXSC 407, Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury

Heike McNeil

Alek Angeli

Effects of Sodium Bicarbonate on Anaerobic Performance

Athletes that undergo anaerobic exercise will ultimately reach a certain point of fatigue and an inability to maintain exercise intensity. Sodium bicarbonate has been shown to induce a metabolic alkalosis that may be effective in improving anaerobic performance. The information shown was established by analyzing different research articles and scholarly texts on the effects of sodium bicarbonate and processes of metabolic responses. The results showed that sodium bicarbonate induced alkalosis, helped maintain pH levels, and improve performance. The results from this research suggest that the ingestion of sodium bicarbonate does help improve anaerobic performance by improving buffering capacity.

EXSC 407, Senior Capstone

Heike McNeil

P114

9 – 9:30 AM

Tyler Fox

Long Term Effects of Creatine Supplementation On The Body

The consumption of creatine monohydrate is quickly becoming a very popular ergogenic aid. Thus, the purpose of this literature review is to assess creatine monohydrate’s impact on the body and the effects that long-term consumption has on health and performance. Articles assessing these issues have been chosen from scholarly journals and focus on the scientific study of creatine and its impact on the body. In long-term creatine supplementation studies found no idacies that creatine negatively affects blood pressure, plasma creatine, or renal function (2-9). Moreover, these studies suggest that creatine supplementation appears to be a generally effective performance enhancer.

EXSC 407, Senior Capstone

Heike McNeil

P114

9:30 – 10 AM

LeeAnn Fudge

Fish Oil Supplementation and Asthma

The purpose of this presentation is to review literature surrounding fish oil and its influence on asthma and exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. The omega-3 fatty acids present in fish oil have been shown to reduce inflammation and because of this unique characteristic, research has been conducted to see just how fish oil supplementation may be used to counteract the symptoms of asthma, and ultimately reduce bronchial inflammation. This presentation looks in depth at some of the research that has been conducted in regards to this subject and considers whether or not fish oil is a viable solution to bronchoconstriction.

EXSC 407, Senior Capstone

Heike McNeil

P114

1 – 1:30 PM

Ryan Herriage

Vitamin D and How it Relates to Overall Health and Sport Performance

This purpose of this project was to show how the importance of Vitamin-D for both the average individual as well as a collegiate athlete. The significance of my research will help to explain how individual’s current Vitamin-D levels tend to be insufficient, shows how both supplementation and radiation will help to improve an individuals’ health, as well as may improve their athletic performance. Through my research I will be able to show the importance of Vitamin-D. This will assist many athletes in learning the benefits of having proper supplementation and hopefully show how they may benefit in their sport performance.

EXSC 407, Senior Capstone

Heike McNeil

P114

1:30 – 2 PM

Adelayde Hoskins

Hydration

Hydration plays a vital role in an athlete’s performance. It is important because the body is mostly made up of water, and the proper balance between water and electrolytes in our bodies really determines how most of our systems function, including nerves and muscles. If the nerves and muscles are not functioning properly, the athlete cannot perform to their best ability. During this presentation we will look at a few different studies on athletes and their given sports to assess their hydration statuses. 

EXSC 407, Senior Capstone

Heike McNeil

P114

10 – 10:30 AM

Taylor Kraal

The Effects of Caffeine on Endurance Sports

The effects of caffeine on endurance athletes as well as its effectiveness as a performance enhancer examined. Six experimental studies were reviewed to determine the effects of caffeine in various performance related scenarios. After carefully reviewing all the parameters in the different experimental setups, it was concluded that caffeine reduces the athlete’s idea of perceived exertion which can essentially increase performance in endurance events. In certain scenarios, caffeine was shown to function directly as an ergogenic aid. The majority of the research showed that caffeine was beneficial to endurance athletes mostly because it decreases perceived exertion.

EXSC 407, Senior Capstone

Heike McNeil

P114

2 – 2:30 PM

Danae Laufer

Supplemental Carnitine 

Carnitine is an endogenous compound, meaning it originates in the body. It transports long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria during fat oxidation. I studied the literature of different research articles and their findings to discover if the claims made about supplementing carnitine are accurate. Each study produced specific results in the difference made by carnitine in the body. Altogether, the results show that there are some advantages in supplementing carnitine but there was also no evidence that most athletes eating a balanced diet are at risk for carnitine deficiency and therefor, there is no reason to supplement carnitine.

EXSC 407, Senior Capstone

Heike McNeil

P114

2:30 – 3 PM

Guillermo Torres-Sanchez

Improving Fat Oxidation Through Exercise, Carnitine Supplementation, and Caffeine Supplementation

Endurance exercise training results in an enhanced ability to oxidize fat which leads to improvement of athletic performance. Fat oxidation not only affects athletes but also helps the average person that participates in an endurance type activity such as walking. This is important because there has been a bigger shift of focus towards exercise in order to help people live healthier lifestyles and for athletes to perform at their absolute peak. This study looks into ways that you may be able to increase fat oxidation by looking at types of exercises and also through carnitine and caffeine supplementation.

EXSC 407, Senior Capstone

Heike McNeil

P114

10:30 – 11 AM

Camille Anguiano

Postural Stability Post Sport Concussion

This review paper examines different ways to test and measure postural stability that can be helpful to sports medicine clinicians, athletic trainers, and coaches as they are making return to play decisions following a sport concussion. Six articles were searched on EBSCO Host. This review concluded that measuring postural stability and neuropsychological post concussion symptoms of athletes is a very effective measurement designed to aid sports clinicians in return to play decisions. Postural stability tests were found to be extremely important because they measure the center of force in neutral position, any deviation away from neutral position results in a sway. 

EXSC 407, Senior Capstone

Heike McNeil

L203

1 – 1:30 PM

Jackie Brooks

Prevention of Recurring ACL Injuries: Rehabilitation Strategies

Athletes that have undergone anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction are at risk of re-injury. This presentation discusses the risk factors and recommendations for safe return to sport for athletes after ACLR. Information supporting use of objective, measurable criteria that focuses on resolution of neuromuscular deficits that are know and modifiable risk factors, in addition to time from surgery guidelines, must be implemented to decrease re-injury rates.

EXSC 407, Senior Capstone

Heike McNeil

L203

1:30 – 2 PM

Katie Collins

Glenohumeral Instability and Dislocations in Athletes

Athletes are at a high risk of encountering glenohumeral instability and dislocations due to overuse or traumatic collisions. Six peer reviewed articles were researched in order to better understand the classification, etiology, and treatment options of glenohumeral instability. The results implied that initial management should include a non-operative rehabilitation program. However, if this is unsuccessful within 6 months, then surgical treatment should be considered. Also, it was found that depending on the activity level and requirements of the athlete, surgery may be the better initial option for treating glenohumeral instability and dislocations so that the athlete can quickly return their sport.

EXSC 407, Senior Capstone

Heike McNeil

L203

2 – 2:30 PM

Kelsey Combs

Contributing Factors in Rotator Cuff Injuries

Rotator cuff injuries (RTC) are common among athletes, particularly athletes that are involved in sports that require overhead exercises. The purpose of this review was to look at different factors and see how they influence one’s risk for an RTC injury. The review includes materials gathered from six different studies and discusses the influence of muscle flexibility, fatigue, range of motion, and overuse on rotator cuff injuries. It was concluded that there are a multitude of factors that influence the risk for injury; this results in an imbalance in the strength of the RTC muscles, increasing one’s risk for injury and re-injury.

EXSC 407, Senior Capstone

Heike McNeil

L203

2 – 2:30 PM

Calvin Green

Mechanics and Resulting Injury of the Golf Swing

Golf is a sport that is gaining worldwide popularity thanks to the play and stardom of players like Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, and Bubba Watson. With recent advances in technology, instructors and researchers have been able to analyze the mechanics of the swing and the muscles used. This review will look at the muscles being used during the swing, how injuries could be sustained due to the mechanics of the golf swing, and an effective treatment plan for the injury prone golfer. 

EXSC 407, Senior Capstone

Heike McNeil

L203

3 – 3:30 PM

Jessica Jeffreys

Great Recovery Methods for Incomplete Spinal Injuries

Incomplete spinal cord injuries have a lengthy and unique process of recovery for every patient. Understanding the options of gait recovery for those who have an incomplete SCA will better the chances of a successful gait. Six studies were used from EBSCOHost to understand the physical therapy options to regain gait strength.

EXSC 407, Senior Capstone

Heike McNeil

L203

3:30 – 4 PM

Sierra Schorer-Noll

The Relationship Between Medial Plica and Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Medial plica syndrome is a sports injury that affects a relatively small population and is therefore not very well known or researched. Medial Plica is extra tissue in the knee which changes shape with flexion and extension. The pain comes from the friction between the tissue and the bone articulations. This review attempts to analyze the relationship between patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), an overuse injury, and medial plica of the knee. Both sport injuries were researched extensively. Historically, no direct relationship has been established between the two. Six original research articles were chosen and it was concluded that there is a strong relationship between PFPS and medial plica. 

EXSC 407, Senior Capstone

Heike McNeil

L203

3:30 – 4 PM