Clinical Research Directory

Electromyostimulation (EMS) of Astronauts in Spaceflight (Easymotion-2)

This is a prospective spaceflight study involving an investigational non-risk device called the EasyMotionSkin for whole body electric muscle (myo) stimulation (WB-EMS) onboard the International Space Station (ISS). The purpose of this study is to show: * optimized exercise outcome with EMS in human spaceflight * demonstrate efficacy of EMS as alternative inflight exercise protocol * provide a time-saving and reliable EMS-assisted exercise protocol compliant to astronauts for later use in planetary habitats and future deep space exploration Eight (n=8) astronauts on long duration missions will take part in this study. This experiment uses the following hardware/software (HW \& SW): (A) EasymotionSkin suit (dry electrode muscle stimulation), B) non-invasive hand-held Myoton device (digitized passive muscle stiffness data collection). C) a customized Myoton body template suit (elastic yoga suit with customized anatomical reference labels to aid inflight Myoton data collection on dedicated perforated 2x2 cm small skin fields) at 5 different skin measurement points (MP), neck, back, shoulder, legs. Before and after flight the following tests will be done once: Myoton data collection, dynamometry strength test, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for baseline comparison. Researchers will compare data from a non EMS control group (non EMS Astronauts, retrospective) to see if changes of passive muscle stiffness is seen in EMS Astronauts before, during and after spaceflight

Comparison of Active Isolated Stretching Versus Myofascial Release of Knee Joint in Office Workers

"Office workers often spend long hours sitting, which can lead to stiffness and reduced mobility. By studying these two techniques AIS and MFR, we can determine which one is more effective in helping office workers to improve their flexibility and range of motion in the knee joint because their sedentary work environment often leads to musculoskeletal issues, including limited knee joint mobility. AIS involves stretching specific muscles while actively engaging opposing muscles to enhance the effectiveness of the stretch. It aims to increase the extensibility of muscles and improve joint mobility. On the other hand, MFR focuses on releasing tension and adhesions in the fascia, the connective tissue surrounding muscles and joints, to restore mobility and reduce pain. Understanding the benefits and effectiveness of these techniques will contribute to evidence-based practices in occupational health and help office workers maintain optimal joint health"