Masters Degrees (Exercise, Sport and Lifestyle Medicine)

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The development of a fall risk assessment and exercise intervention programme for geriatric subjects
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2012-12) Dekenah, Ghabrielle Anne; Barnard, J. G.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Education. Dept. of Sport Science.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Falling is a common occurrence and one of the most serious problems in the elderly population (65 years and older). Falls account for 70% of accidental deaths in persons aged 75 years and older. Falls can be markers/indicators of poor health and declining function, and are often associated with significant morbidity. More than 90% of hip fractures occur as a result of falls, with most of these fractures occurring in persons over 70 years of age (Fuller, 2000). About one third of people aged 65 years and older fall each year, resulting in a substantial decrease in quality of life in addition to placing a huge burden on current health care systems. The purpose of this study was to determine whether a 12-week exercise intervention programme, consisting of two 30 minute exercise sessions a week, could lower the risk of falling in a group of elderly women. Female subjects (n=22) with an average age of 79.5 years were selected from three retirement homes situated in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa, according to specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. The subjects included presented no major cardiovascular and pulmonary disease signs and symptoms as recognised by the American College of Sports Medicine (2011); had no serious illnesses or co-morbidities; were mobile with no significant musculoskeletal disorders; had no uncorrected visual or vestibular problems as well as no significant cognitive impairments or major psychological disturbances; were not taking any psychotropic medications or Benzodiazepines that could affect their progress. Subjects also had to be willing to follow the 12-week exercise intervention programme and sign an informed consent document. The selected subjects then underwent a pre- and post-intervention assessment consisting of a subjective rating of their fear of falling, the Fall Risk Assessment: Biodex Balance system, Balance Evaluations Systems Test (BESTest) and the 30-Second Chair Stand Test. Statistica 10 was used to analyse the data. Data was analysed to assess any significant improvements that the exercise intervention had on each fall risk variable tested. The main fall risk variables consisted of: fear of falling, muscular strength, balance, gait and getting up strategies. Statistically significant improvements (p<0.001) were seen in: Fear of falling, muscular strength, balance, gait and getting up strategies after the 12-week exercise intervention programme. This study suggests that exercise intervention has the potential to decrease the risk of falling among elderly women and should play an extremely important role in the prevention of falling amongst this population group.
The effect of exercise in pulmonary rehabilitation on the quality of life of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2004-12) Brown, Jennifer Leigh; Barnard, J. G.; Joubert, J. R.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Education. Dept. of Sport Science.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The purpose of the study was to measure the responses of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients to an exercise programme in a South Africa setting. Nine subjects were evaluated before and after aerobic and resistance training three times a week for the total of 12 weeks. Each evaluation measured forced expiratory lung function; health-related quality of life; functional capacity; level of dyspnea; body composition; physician global evaluation; and the patient global evaluation. The exercise programme consisted of one-hour exercise sessions, three times a week for 12 weeks. The exercise sessions included elements of aerobic and resistance training of the upper and lower extremities. Functional capacity improved drastically (p < 0.01), as did the physician and the patient global evaluations (p < 0.01 and p < 0.01, respectively). Levels of dyspnea also improved (p < 0.01). Health-related quality of life improved marginally (p = 0.03). No significant change was noted in lung function and body composition. The study concluded that an exercise programme consisting of aerobic and resistance training improves chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients' health-related quality of life, functional capacity and levels of dyspnea. Exercise also reduces the symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease as are perceived by the physician and patient alike. Exercise does not change lung function or body composition of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients. Exercise in conjunction with appropriate medical treatment has the potential to benefit all chronic obstructive patients in South Africa. Keywords: COPD, quality oflife, functional capacity, rehabilitation, exercise.
Exercise preferences and expectations of young female students in a university environment
(Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2009-12) Van Niekerk, Estelle; Barnard, J. G.; University of Stellenbosch. Faculty of Education. Dept. of Sport Science.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The study investigated the exercise preferences of female university students participating in exercise modes presented at the local gymnasium and their expectations of the outcomes of such participation. Secondly, the study aimed to determine the most important reason for their participation and whether this was satisfied by their choice of exercise mode. A third aim was to determine other reasons that contributed to the selection of exercise environment and mode. The size of the research group of the pilot study was 210 (n=210). For the final longitudinal study, over a period of three years, it was 985 (N=985). The study population was selected on a basis of convenient sampling, availability and interest among young female gymnasium members, (aged 18 to 27 years). Their participation was voluntary. Original questionnaires were constructed for the purpose of the study to provide general demographic and physical characteristic information of the participants, their exercise preference and choice of exercise mode, reasons for participation in particular exercise modes, time spent on physical activity, frequency of attendance of exercise sessions, exercise motivators, barriers to exercise, medication and supplementation prevalence, health problems and smoking. The questionnaire was completed in a five to 10 minute time slot before the commencement of exercise classes at the gymnasium. Information required on the questionnaire was verbally explained to the participants during the initial few minutes of data capturing. Guidance was given for each section of the questionnaire during the five to 10 minute period allocated for completion. Data was captured on Microsoft Excel spreadsheets and the analysis was performed using Statistica for Windows (Statsoft SA-2008). Descriptive statistics were used to analyse and present the data. The results of the study indicated that most (34.4%) young female students who regularly attended group exercise sessions at the gymnasium preferred participating in the exercise modality punchline (a boxing aerobic modality), with the aim of losing weight (45%) and improving their general fitness (24%).
The incidence and nature of cricket injuries amongst South African schoolboy cricketers
(Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2006-12) Milsom, Natashia M.; Barnard, J. G.; Stretch, R. A.; University of Stellenbosch. Faculty of Education. Dept. of Sport Science.
INTRODUCTION: The primary aim of this study is to identify the prevalence and nature of injuries sustained by South African schoolboy cricketers. The results will then be used to set possible preventative measures in order to minimize the incidence of first-time and recurrent injuries. METHODS: The population consisted of 196 cricketers representing all 16 provincial teams in the under 19 Coca-Cola Khaya Majola cricket week played in Pretoria from 16 - 20 December 2004. Data were collected retrospectively and the cricket players were asked to recall all injuries from June 2003 to May 2004. The researcher personally guided each cricketer through a questionnaire regarding training and injury. The questionnaire was designed to obtain the following information: i) anatomical site of injury, ii) month of injury, iii) diagnosis of injury, iv) cause of injury, v) whether it was a recurrence of a previous injury and vi) whether the injury recurred during the season. A questionnaire was handed to each of the coaches who then asked if they could complete the questionnaire in their own time. The questionnaire was designed to see the level of coaching qualifications achieved by them and their level of understanding of basic training principles. RESULTS: The results showed that 67 injuries were sustained by 196 cricketers with a seasonal incidence of 34.2. Almost 72% of injuries occurred during matches, 14.9% occurred gradually due to the repetitive stresses sustained during matches and practices, 11.9% occurred during practice and 1.5% of the injuries occurred during other forms of training. Surprisingly, no injuries were sustained to the head, neck and face region while 34.3% were sustained to the upper limbs; 34.3% to the lower limbs and 31.3% to the back and trunk. Bowling accounted for 50.7% of the injuries, while fielding accounted for 32.8%, batting accounted for 14.9% and the remaining 1.5% occurred while warming-up or training. The primary mechanism of injury was the delivery and follow through of the fast bowler (34.3%), direct impact from the cricket ball when attempting to take a catch (10.4%), running after the ball (6.0%), stopping the ball along the ground (6.0%) and landing incorrectly after diving for the ball (6.0%). Fifty eight of the injuries were reported as being first time injuries while only nine injuries were due to the recurrence of a previous injury. The majority of injuries (40.6%) reported were quite severe and took the cricketers more than 21 days to recover. Thirty six percent of injuries allowed the cricketers to return to play within seven days of acquiring the injury. Cricketers were found to be more prone to injury during December and January. CONCLUSION: Potential risk factors for injury have been identified and it has been suggested that coaches and cricketers partake in continuous educational processes that focus on all the physical, training, mental and technical components necessary for success in cricket. Cricketers should undergo regular musculoskeletal evaluations and be given personalized training programs. It is essential that a National database for junior cricketers be implemented.
Morphological variables as possible risk factors for the drivers of rubber tyred gantry cranes at the port of Felixstowe, UK
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2007-12) Watson, Estelle Dorothy; Barnard, J. G.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Education. Dept. of Sport Science.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The prevalence of lower back disorders and the high costs involved are an ongoing problem in industrialised countries. Research indicates an estimated 70-80% of all individuals will experience lower back pain (LBP) during the course of their lives (Manek & MacGregor, 2005; Kent & Keating, 2005; Dunn & Croft, 2004; Takeyachi et al., 2003; Carter & Birrel, 2000:6; Nourbakhsh & Arab, 2003; Bernard, 1997:374). It is widely accepted that occupational demands and physical work contribute greatly towards onset, recovery and recurrence of symptoms (Carter & Birrel, 2000:6). Rubber Tyred Gantry (RTG) crane drivers are particularly at risk, as their working posture forces them into various prolonged non-neutral trunk positions (Fehrsen-Du Toit, 2005:24; Rohlmannt et al., 2001; Nachemson, 1963) and extreme trunk flexion (Seider et al., 2003; Hoogendoorn et al., 2000). Intrinsic factors such as trunk strength (O'Sullivan et al., 2005; Bayramoglu et al., 2001) and trunk stability (Hitt & Lie, 2006; MacDonald et al., 2006; Barker et al., 2006; Hodges et al., 2005; Hodges, 2003; Hodges & Richardson, 1996) as well as anthropometric variables (Franklin et al., 2000:64), can play different roles in incidences of lumbar pain or injury. A job such as RTG crane driving is dependant on a certain amount of strength or physical fitness. A deficit in on or more of these areas can lead to compensation, overload and eventually symptoms and injury. Research has yet to identify factors that predispose certain drivers to injury, and factors determining a quick, safe recovery and return to work. The purpose of this study was to investigate possible morphological variables as risk factors for RTG crane drivers, for Hutchison Whampoa, at the Port of Felixstowe, UK. The study design was based on a cross sectional, analytical epidemiological study. A sample of 43 RTG drivers completed testing. They were divided into a group of drivers who had never had lower back pain or symptoms (n=22), and a group of drivers who had had a previous history of lower back pain (n=21). All subjects were asymptomatic at the time of testing. Although not significant (p > 0.05), the results of the study showed that average performance deficit (the power needed to maintain or repetitively produce a force) tended to be higher in those subjects without a previous history of pain. The flexion/extension ratio also tended to be better for this group. The subjects without a past history of lower back pain were, surprisingly, found to be older than the other group. This explains the higher body weight, waist-to-hip-circumference, body mass index, and fat percentage for this group, as these measurements all tend to increase with age. It also explains the lower peak torque to body weight values for that group, as peak torque would decrease with increased body weight. This is the first study to look at morphological variables and isokinetic testing of RTG crane drivers, and the relationship between these variables and lower back pain.
The prevalence of coronary risk factors among children, ages 11 to 13, in selected Western Cape schools
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2002-12) De Klerk, Danelle Ria; Barnard, J. G.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Education. Dept. of Sport Science.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Numerous studies have shown that coronary artery disease (CAD) has its origin in childhood. Several risk factors that increase a person's risk for the development of CAD are prevalent amongst children. South African statistics concerning the prevalence of these risk factors are limited. Research has shown that early intervention to eliminate risk factors can decrease the risk for the development of CAD. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of certain coronary risk factors amongst children aged 11 to 13 years in certain Western Cape schools. Certain selected factors were tested. These included obesity, lack of physical activity, hypertension, low physical fitness (V02max), a family history associated with an increased risk, exposure to cigarette smoke, prevalence of diabetes mellitus and an unhealthy diet. The sample consisted out of 288 children and was made up by 154 boys and 134 girls. Certain anthropometrical measurements (stature, weight, skinfoids, waist and hip circumferences) were taken. Activity levels, family history, exposure to cigarette smoke, prevalence of diabetes mellitus and diet, were measured by means of questionnaires. Physical fitness (V02max) was tested with a three-minute step-test. A sphygmomanometer was used to measure blood pressure. Depending on the circumference of the child's arm, a paediatric or adult size cuff was used. The results of the study showed that 22.01% of the boys and 59.7% of the girls had a percentage body fat so high that it was considered a coronary risk factor. Physical fitness levels were considered risk factors in 2.6% of the boys and 9% of the girls. A very high percentage of the children tested had a family history associated with an increased risk for the development of CAD (73.38% of the boys and 78.36% of the girls). Systolic hypertension was prevalent among 22.01% of the boys and 23.13% of the girls. Diastolic hypertension was only prevalent among 5.19% of the boys and 5.97% of the girls. Low activity levels were considered a risk factor in 31.17% of the boys and 39.55% of the girls. Out of all the subjects, 32.47% of the boys and 37.31% of the girls were exposed to cigarette smoke on a daily basis. The results of this study shows that certain coronary risk factors are quite common amongst children. Prevention programmes that focuses on elimination of coronary risk factors, such as hypertension, inactivity and obesity, is essential for the prevention of subsequent coronary artery disease in adults.
The prevalence of postural deformities among children age 11 to 13 years in some Western Cape schools
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2002-12) Stroebel, Suzanne; Barnard, J. G.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Education. Dept. of Sport Science.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Postural deformities are a commonly encountered problem among children. Most of the aches and pains of adults are the result, not of injuries, but of the long-term effects of distortions in posture or alignment that have their origins in childhood or adolescence. Television, video entertainment, motorized transportation, fast food and lack of regular physical activity contribute to the poor physical condition of children. School screening for scoliosis is mandated in schools in 26 states of the United States (US) for children between 10 and 16 years of age. Previous studies conducted in the US found that 160 out of 1000 people suffer from scoliosis. This means that scoliosis is as prevalent as hypertension or diabetes mellitus (Boachie-Adjei & Lonner, 1996). Identification of postural deformities at an early stage makes early treatment possible, which may, in future, prevent serious postural abnormalities. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons approved the implementation of screening programs in schools in 1974 (Lonstein, 1988). Few studies have included the entire musculoskeletal system. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of postural deformities among children aged 11 to 13 years in selected primary schools in the Western Cape. The study also proposes to investigate factors that may influence the prevalence rate of postural deformities. These factors included age, gender, school district, weight, height, BMI (Body Mass Index), fat%, waist-hip ratio, and physical activity. Letters were sent to 15 primary schools within a 30km radius of Stellenbosch. This region included Stellenbosch, Strand, and Kuilsrivier. Four schools replied, giving permission to conduct the study at their schools. The sample (N=288, mean age=12.36, SD=0.92) consisted of 78 scholars from grade five; 104 scholars form grade six; and 106 scholars from grade seven. Of the total number of scholars examined (288), 154 were boys, and 134 were girls. Only children with parental consent were allowed to participate in the study. Anthropometric measures included stature, mass, skinfoids (two-site skinfoid), waist- and hip circumferences and trochanterion leg length. Level of physical activity and family history of deformities were obtained by means of a questionnaire. The New York Posture Test was used for postural evaluation (Bloomfield et aI., 1994:320; Reedeo Inc., 2001. This Posture Test was designed for the screening of 13 categories of deformities. Using a "see-through" posture grid, lateral and posterior examinations were performed. The "Adam's position" (forward bending) was used for further scoliosis evaluation. Quantitative data was analyzed, using Statistica (Statsoft, 2001) and classification tree methodology (Breiman et aI., 1993). The anthropometric results indicated that the subjects had a mean stature of 1.54m, mass of 47.48kg, BMI of 19.75, waist-hip ratio of 0.79 and fat% (Lohman, 1987) of 21.35%. The prevalence of postural deformities was as follows: Lordosis, 70%; Kyphosis, 57%; Uneven shoulders, 55%; Inclined trunk, 43%; Winged scapulae, 42%; Pronated feet, 30%; Flat feet, 30%; Flat chest, 29%; Forward head, 28%; Protruding abdomen, 28%; Uneven hips, 11%; Scoliosis, 10%; and Twisted head, 1%. Uneven hips, scoliosis and twisted head were not considered for statistical purposes, because of their low incidence compared to the other deformities. The factors that influenced the prevalence rate of deformities the most were BMI and fat%. A higher BMI and fat% resulted in a higher prevalence rate in most deformities. The prevalence rate of postural deformities in this study was considerably high. Sedentary lifestyles of children (watching television, computer games, junk food and physical inactivity) were a contributing factor in the high prevalence rate of postural deformities. It is known that overweight and sedentary behavior of children is increasing and this could pose an alarming concern to the health of a child. Also, if a significant correlation does exist between the prevalence of postural deformities and conditions such as back pain, the high prevalence rate reported in this study is a matter of concern.

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Browsing Masters Degrees (Exercise, Sport and Lifestyle Medicine) by browse.metadata.advisor "Barnard, J. G."

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