This week in the world of sports science, here’s what happened…
- Perception of time can influence healing
- Three solutions for bunion recovery
- Influence of maturity status on the stretch-shortening cycle
Perception of time can influence healing
(Image: Neuroscience News)
There has been a lot of discussion online about a recent neuroscience research study. The study showed that healing can be influenced by one’s perception of time rather than the actual time.
The participants of the study underwent a “cupping” procedure, which caused mild wounds. In a laboratory setting, perceived time was manipulated, and each study participant completed three experimental conditions: Slow Time (0.5x real-time), Normal Time (1x real-time), and Fast Time (2x real-time).
The study found that wounds healed faster when participants believed more time had passed, while wounds healed slower when less time was believed to have passed. Notably, the time elapsed in all three conditions was the same (28 minutes).
This study highlights the powerful influence of perception in injury recovery. It serves as a reminder that our mind can significantly impact our physical healing. If you are interested in neuroscience, then this study is a must-read!
Three solutions for bunion recovery
Last week, I watched a video that provided useful information about recovering from a bunion. A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe, which can be quite painful and may even require surgery. This video by “thekneesovertoesguy” offers three simple solutions for preventing or correcting bunions.
The first solution is walking backwards, which helps to strengthen the feet and improve circulation. The video demonstrates walking backwards on an incline treadmill. Secondly, broad-shaped shoes are recommended to allow the big toe to function properly. The video also touches upon the problems with modern footwear. Lastly, wearing a toe spacer for the big toe is advised.
I highly recommend watching this informative video if you’re currently dealing with a bunion.
Influence of maturity status on the stretch-shortening cycle
A recent study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research examined how maturity status affects the stretch-shortening cycle (SSC). Participants were categorised based on their maturity status: early pre-peak height velocity (PHV), late pre-PHV, circa-PHV, and post-PHV. All subjects performed a drop jump off a 30cm box onto a force plate.
Their SSC ability was classified based on their drop jump performance as good, moderate, or poor. The results showed that 66% of post-PHV subjects had a good SSC function, while only 45% of early pre-PHV subjects were classified as good. This finding suggests that athletes who have reached post-PHV outperform their less mature counterparts. Therefore, it can be concluded that maturity status has an impact on the development of the SSC.
However, it is essential to note that 18% of post-PHV subjects were classified as having a poor SSC function, suggesting that SSC function is not exclusively related to maturation.
From us this week:
>> New course: Nutrition For Cricket
>> New podcast: How Vegetarian And Vegan Athletes Can Master Nutrition To Perform Optimally
>> New infographic: Change Of Direction Deficit
>> New article: Muscle Memory
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