This study aimed to determine the effect of task-oriented treadmill training combined with high-intensity interval training (TO-HIIT) on the balance, gait parameters, and ADL in patients with chronic stroke compared to high-intensity interval treadmill training (HIIT). This parallel-group randomized controlled trial with a 1:1 allocation ratio enrolled 30 chronic stroke patients who were randomly assigned using computer-generated randomization to either an TO- HIIT group (n = 15) or HIIT group (n = 15). Outcome assessors were blinded to group allocation. Both groups trained 30 min per session, three times a week for four weeks. Balance ability was evaluated using the Zebris FDM-T, Gait parameters were measured by the GAITRite, and the activities of daily living (ADL) was assessed using modified barthel index (MBI). Data were analyzed via two-factor repeated measures ANOVA. Significant interaction effects between time and group were observed for the balance (COP 95% area, COP path length, COP average velocity), gait parameters (step length, stride length, cadence, double limb support, and single limb support), and ADL (p < .05). Post-hoc analysis revealed that the TO-HIIT group showed greater improvements compared to the HIIT group (p < .025); however, no significant between-group differences were observed in cadence and MBI (p > .025). Both groups demonstrated significant improvements over time (p < .017). This study suggests that TO-HIIT is more effective than HIIT alone for chronic stroke patients. High-intensity, repetitive, meaningful task-oriented exercises positively impact balance, gait, and ADL demonstrating notable transfer effects. Therefore, TO-HIIT should be considered in rehabilitation programs.

Introduction: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries have become a significant public health burden. Recent evidence suggests a potential association between patellar height and ACL injury, though existing studies show inconsistent results. This study aimed to synthesise evidence about this association through systematic review and meta-analysis. Material and methods: Comprehensive searches across seven databases through October 2025 identified observational studies comparing patellar height (Insall-Salvati Index, [ISI]) between ACL-injured patients and controls. Two reviewers independently performed selection, extraction and quality assessment (Newcastle–Ottawa Scale [NOS]). Random-effects meta-analysis was used to calculate the standardised mean differences (SMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Subgroup analyses were performed based on age (≤16 vs >16 years), measurement method and timing. Results: Four studies (891 participants: 460 ACL injury, 431 controls) were included. The overall analysis showed marginal ISI elevation (SMD = 0.250; 95% CI [0.116, 0.384]) with substantial heterogeneity ( I ² = 93.9%). Adults >16 years demonstrated a significant association (SMD = 0.453; 95% CI [0.289, 0.617]; I ² = 0%), while adolescents ≤16 years showed no clear association ( I ² = 96.8%). Modified ISI (MIS) measurements showed stronger associations (SMD = 0.514) than traditional methods. Evidence certainty was low to very low. Conclusions: Elevated patellar height shows a consistent association with ACL injury in adults but not in adolescents. This suggests that patellar height modifies knee biomechanics, potentially increasing ACL loading in adult athletes. Patellar height may serve as a screening component for ACL injury alongside other factors. Large prospective cohort studies with standardised protocols are needed.

Background/Objectives: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are prevalent among manufacturing workers exposed to repetitive and physically demanding tasks. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of exercise-based interventions on musculoskeletal pain and physical function among manufacturing workers, focusing on symptom management and functional improvement rather than the prevention of new WMSDs. Methods: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science were searched from inception to March 31, 2026. Prospective controlled studies of workplace- or job-related exercise interventions were included. Risk of bias was evaluated within the RoB 2 framework, and random-effects meta-analyses used standardized mean differences (Hedges’ g), with functional outcomes analyzed separately by domain. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD420261369113). Results: Thirteen studies were included in the review. The revised primary pain synthesis included seven studies (414 participants) and favored exercise-based interventions (SMD −0.69, 95% CI −1.25 to −0.12; I² = 71.9%). Disability/function-status outcomes included three studies (143 participants; SMD −0.67, 95% CI −1.42 to 0.07). Estimates for shoulder abduction range of motion (two studies; 111 participants; SMD −0.63, 95% CI −3.29 to 2.03) and RAND-36 physical functioning (one study; 24 participants; SMD −0.21, 95% CI −1.06 to 0.64) were imprecise. Evidence certainty was low for disability/function-status outcomes and very low for the other outcomes. Conclusions: Exercise-based interventions may improve disability/function-status outcomes, although the confidence interval included little or no difference. Evidence for effects on pain, shoulder range of motion, and RAND-36 physical functioning remains very uncertain. The findings concern symptom management rather than demonstrated prevention of new WMSDs. Optimal exercise prescriptions and sustained benefits remain uncertain.