Anthropometric measurements are widely used to determine body composition, size and weight, and proportions of the human body, especially in children. Our aim was to identify common physical characteristics of student athletes in selected Malaysia states sports schools. The ensuing analysis aimed to provide these states sports school athletes with a competitive advantage. Participants (n=317) were from student-athletes, aged between 13-14y and 15-16y staying in their school’s dormitory. These student-athletes comprise of 181 males (13-14y, n=138; 15-16y, n=43) and 136 females (13-14y, n=84; 15-16y, n=52). All subjects were measured on 26 anthropometric dimensions using measurements of four skin folds, six direct lengths, seven segment girths, six segment breadths, plus body mass, stretch stature and sitting height. The results showed significantly differences (p
The objective of this systematic review was to assess the effectiveness of physical therapy interventions for chronic soft tissue injury to the low back. Only randomized controlled trials identifying physical therapy interventions within the scope of practice for Canadian physiotherapists and athletic therapists, with a clinical diagnosis of chronic soft tissue injury to the low back with symptoms lasting a minimum of three months were included. Only three studies of the 87 articles reviewed were deemed eligible for review based on the relevancy criteria set forth by the reviewers. Percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (PENS) and therapist supervised active exercise programs may be a promising treatment modality for chronic low back pain (CLBP) by reducing pain, improving self-reported disability, and improving physical performance. The consensus amongst reviewers’ was that the quality of the three articles were deemed of weak methodological quality making author inferences to the success of the reported physical interventions towards the modulation of pain, improved range of motion or patient satisfaction inconclusive. At the most basic level, there is a lack of uniformity in defining low back pain based on time, with definitions ranging anywhere from one week to six months. This is a major limitation in existing scientific literature. The ability to compare studies and results is hampered by the disparities in CLBP definition. The scientific rigor applied to studies devoted to therapeutic interventions and rehabilitation is poor.