Articles published on Balance ability
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- New
- Research Article
- 10.1177/00315125261435301
- Mar 12, 2026
- Perceptual and motor skills
- Alessia Bertola + 4 more
Unilateral balance training has been suggested to promote a cross-education effect, which consists of skills transfer from the trained to untrained leg thanks to spinal and supraspinal adaptations. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the effect of unilateral balance training on balance abilities of the untrained leg in healthy people and patients with motor impairments. A systematic search was carried out on MEDLINE, CENTRAL, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL and PEDro databases. Randomized controlled trials investigating unilateral balance training effects on static, reactive and proactive balance of the untrained leg in healthy adults or patients with musculoskeletal or neurological conditions were included. Methodological quality was assessed using RoB-2 tool and pooled or un-pooled results were reported as standardized mean difference with 95% confidence interval. Evidence certainty was rated using the GRADE approach. Ten studies were included. Unilateral balance training improved proactive balance of the untrained leg in healthy people (moderate evidence). Unilateral balance training of the unaffected leg enhanced static and proactive balance of the affected leg in patients after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (low evidence) and reactive balance of the affected leg in patients with chronic ankle instability (very low evidence). These findings supported the occurrence of a cross-education effect in healthy people and patients with musculoskeletal conditions of the lower limb. Evidence certainty is limited and further studies are needed.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.5435/jaaosglobal-d-25-00206
- Mar 9, 2026
- JAAOS Global Research & Reviews
- Zhentao Dai + 1 more
Objective:This study aimed to investigate the effect of posterolateral mini-incision hip hemiarthroplasty (HHA) on pain and hip function in elderly patients with hip fractures.Methods:Sixty hip fracture patients treated at our hospital between January 2023 and January 2024 were randomly assigned to two groups, with 30 patients in each group. The control group underwent traditional posterolateral approach HHA, while the observation group received HHA using the posterolateral mini-incision approach. General data were collected from both groups. Surgical indicators, including surgical time, time to ambulation, and length of hospital stay, were compared between the two groups. Adverse reactions and postoperative complications were recorded. Postoperative pain was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) 24 hours after surgery. Treatment efficacy was evaluated with the Harris Hip Score (HHS), and balance ability was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale.Results:No significant differences were observed in baseline characteristics between the two groups (P > 0.05). The observation group demonstrated better surgical outcomes, with shorter operation and recovery times, as well as fewer adverse reactions and complications (P < 0.05). Postoperative VAS scores were significantly lower, and both HHS and Berg Balance Scale scores were higher in the observation group compared with the control group (P < 0.05).Conclusion:The posterolateral mini-incision approach for HHA in elderly patients with hip fractures can optimize surgical outcomes, reduce postoperative pain and complications, improve hip joint function, and promote better postoperative recovery, resulting in overall superior effects.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.3390/jcm15051968
- Mar 4, 2026
- Journal of clinical medicine
- Yunong Zhang + 4 more
Background: Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is a common functional disorder in older adults, affecting their balance and quality of life. Therefore, finding effective ways to enhance ankle stability and function under safe conditions remains a key issue for healthy aging. Objective: This study aims to explore the effects of the Otago Exercise Program (OEP) combined with Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) on ankle stability, the pain index, and balance ability in older adults aged 60 and above with CAI. Methods: This study is a single-blind pilot randomized controlled trial, including 36 eligible older adults with CAI, with 34 completing the trial. Participants were randomly assigned to the OEP group, the combined group (OEP + NMES), and the control group. The intervention period lasted 8 weeks. Evaluation measures included the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Eyes-closed Single-Leg Stance Test (UST), and the Modified Star Excursion Balance Test (mSEBT), with assessments conducted before the intervention, at week 4, and at week 8. Result: After the intervention, all three groups showed significant improvements in CAIT, VAS, UST, and mSEBT scores (p < 0.05), with a large group × time effect observed for the primary outcome CAIT (partial η2 = 0.414). The combined group (OEP + NMES) demonstrated the most significant improvement in CAIT and UST scores (p < 0.05) and outperformed the other two groups in dynamic balance in the posteromedial and posterolateral directions. Conclusions: The combined intervention of OEP and NMES significantly improves ankle stability, both static and dynamic balance abilities, and alleviates pain in older adults with CAI. This combined approach offers a safe and effective rehabilitation strategy for the older adults, with promising clinical application prospects.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.3389/fendo.2026.1749651
- Mar 4, 2026
- Frontiers in Endocrinology
- Fuwei Wu + 3 more
Objective To compare and rank the effects of different mind–body exercise interventions on psychological and physical outcomes in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus using a network meta-analysis. Methods This study systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library, and conducted a frequentist network meta-analysis using Stata with SUCRA-based ranking; risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2.0, certainty of evidence evaluated with CINeMA, and robustness examined through sensitivity analyses and publication bias assessment using funnel plots. Results This study provides preliminary, outcome-specific evidence based on 13 randomized controlled trials involving over 500 individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Network meta-analysis suggested that Pilates significantly improved balance ability (SMD = 1.52, 95% CI 0.77–2.28) and walking ability (SMD = 1.20, 95% CI 0.28–2.12) compared with control. Walking Meditation showed a favorable effect on aerobic capacity (SMD = 1.40, 95% CI 0.44–2.37), while yoga improved muscle strength (SMD = 0.79, 95% CI 0.26–1.33). Mindfulness-based interventions were associated with reduced anxiety (SMD = 1.05, 95% CI 0.46–1.63). Sensitivity analyses indicated that physical function outcomes were generally robust, whereas psychological outcomes were sensitive to influential studies. The certainty of evidence was predominantly very low according to CINeMA assessment. Conclusion This network meta-analysis provides preliminary, outcome-specific evidence that mind–body exercise may improve physical function in type 2 diabetes, while effects on psychological outcomes remain uncertain and warrant further high-quality research. Systematic Review Registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/ , identifier CRD420251133289.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.54254/2753-7102/2026.32059
- Mar 2, 2026
- Advances in Social Behavior Research
- Xiaozhi Han
In 2025, a systematic physical fitness health monitoring was conducted on 1,598 preschool children aged 3 to 6 in 6 kindergartens in ST Street, which objectively and clearly identified such problems as insufficient upper limb muscle strength, poor balance ability, weak lower limb muscle endurance, and stiff muscles and ligaments on the posterior side of the body. On this basis, kindergarten intervention strategies and a new semester physical exercise plan were proposed in a natural and appropriate manner, and implemented by means of creating a supportive environment, gamified training, and home-kindergarten co-education, so as to effectively promote the development of preschool children's physical fitness. Therefore, the new semester physical exercise plan is highly targeted and scientific, and can serve as a reference blueprint for kindergarten physical education.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2025.110194
- Mar 1, 2026
- The Journal of nutritional biochemistry
- Evelyn Fast + 6 more
Zinc, Fe2+, and Fe3+ differentially influence IFN-γ production in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.3390/life16030396
- Feb 28, 2026
- Life
- Jung-Ho Lee
Background and Objectives: This study was conducted to investigate the effects of robot-assisted gait rehabilitation approaches using commonly used end-effector, fixed exoskeleton, and wearable exoskeleton on gait and balance abilities in patients with early post-stroke (≤3 months). Materials and Methods: Sixty patients admitted to a rehabilitation center with confirmed stroke by a medicine specialist were assigned to three groups such as the end-effector group (EG 1), the fixed exoskeleton group (EG 2), and the wearable exoskeleton group (EG 3). The primary endpoint was pre-specified as the change in timed up-and-go gait test (TUG) from baseline to week 6, and all other outcomes were treated as secondary. The functional gait category (FAC), 10-m walk test (10MWT), six-minute walk test (6MWT), timed up-and-go gait test (TUG), dynamic gait index (DGI), and Berg Balance Scale (BBS) were measured at four time points (baseline, 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 6 weeks). Results: A significant main effect of time was observed for all outcome variables, but neither the main effect of group nor the interaction between group and time was significant for any outcome variable. Within-group analyses revealed that FAC, 6MWT, DGI, and BBS increased over time in all groups, whereas 10MWT and TUG decreased. Conclusions: All three robot-assisted gait rehabilitation approaches in patients with early post-stroke were associated with significant improvements in gait and balance abilities over 6 weeks. However, statistically significant differential trajectories were not detected across robot types in this sample.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.1186/s13018-026-06719-1
- Feb 28, 2026
- Journal of orthopaedic surgery and research
- Linjing Chen + 4 more
Fu's Subcutaneous Needling (FSN) is an acupuncture technique that involves horizontally inserting a disposable needle into the subcutaneous loose connective tissue layer to target tightened muscles through a unique manipulation called swaying movement. This technique employs fan-shaped oscillations of the needle at approximately 60°, performing 45 reciprocal motions within 30s, without penetrating the muscle layer. The mechanical stimulation helps relax chronically tense muscles, improve blood circulation, and alleviate local ischemia, and is often combined with the reperfusion approach (RA) to enhance therapeutic outcomes. Characterized by simplicity, rapid effect, and minimal side effects, FSN has been demonstrated to be effective for ankle sprain. However, it remains unclear how its efficacy compares to the functional bracing and exercise therapy currently recommended in clinical guidelines. Therefore, this study aims to compare it with the combination of ankle bracing and exercise therapy to explore the effects of FSN on improving ankle balance ability, joint function, and pain relief, and to verify whether it helps prevent recurrent sprains after lateral ankle sprain (LAS) and improve the relevant predictive indicators of chronic ankle instability (CAI), so as to provide evidence-based basis for clinical decision-making. This study is a randomized, parallel-controlled, single-center prospective clinical study. A total of 80 subjects with postacute LAS will be enrolled and randomly assigned to either the FSN group or the combined treatment group, with 40 cases in each group. The FSN group will receive Fu's subcutaneous needling treatment three times per week for the first 4 weeks, followed by once per week for the next 4 weeks (8 weeks in total). The combined treatment group will wear an ankle brace during daily activities and complete a phased, supervised program of exercise training targeting both muscle strengthening and neuromuscular control for 8 weeks. A follow-up period of one year will be conducted after the treatment. The primary efficacy outcome is the change in the Ankle-GO Score from baseline to 8 weeks after treatment. Secondary outcomes include the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT), active range of motion (ROM) of the ankle joint, Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and the rate of sprain recurrence, all of which will be used to demonstrate the clinical efficacy. This clinical trial, conducted in full compliance with the Declaration of Helsinki, has been approved by the Institutional Review Board of Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine and is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov under identifier NCT07161427.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.30693/smj.2026.15.2.79
- Feb 27, 2026
- Korean Institute of Smart Media
- Myung Soon Ahn + 2 more
The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of lower extremity rehabilitation robot training on range of motion (ROM) and balance ability in chronic stroke patients, thereby providing basic data for effective rehabilitation intervention strategies. The subjects were 40 stroke patients who were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n=20) and a control group (n=20). The experimental group performed bridge exercises and gait training using the Angel Robotics walking robot for 20 minutes, while the control group performed bridge exercises and manual resistance exercises provided by a therapist. The intervention was conducted for 4 weeks. To compare the effects before and after the intervention, the ROM of the hip and knee joints was measured using an electronic goniometer, and the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) was assessed. First, regarding the changes in ROM for hip flexion and knee flexion, the experimental group, which combined lower extremity rehabilitation robot training, showed a statistically significant improvement compared to the control group (p<.05). Second, regarding the changes in BBS scores evaluating balance ability, the experimental group also showed a significantly higher improvement than the control group (p<.05). In conclusion, this study confirmed that lower limb rehabilitation robot training is a more effective intervention method than simple muscle strengthening exercises for securing ROM in the lower extremities and enhancing balance in stroke patients. These findings suggest that robot-assisted training can be applied as a useful clinical option to improve lower limb functional recovery and postural control, while also validating the clinical utility of advanced robotic technology in stroke rehabilitation.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.1152/jn.00606.2025
- Feb 17, 2026
- Journal of neurophysiology
- Kennedy G Kerr + 5 more
Motor skill expertise can facilitate more automatic movement, engaging less cortical activity while producing appropriate motor output. Accordingly, cortical-evoked error assessment responses to balance perturbations, assessed using electroencephalography (EEG), are smaller in young and older adults with better balance. However, the effect of balance expertise on cortical responses to balance perturbation has not been studied. Using professional modern dancers as balance experts, we compared cortical-evoked responses and biomechanics of the balance-correcting response between modern dancers and nondancers. We hypothesized that balance ability gained through long-term training facilitates more automatic balance control. We predicted modern dancers would have smaller cortical-evoked responses and better balance recovery at equivalent balance challenge. Support-surface perturbations were scaled to 60% and 140% of individuals' step threshold to account for individual challenge level, and N1 amplitude was assessed as an initial measure of cortical engagement relating to balance error assessment. In contrast to our prediction, dancers exhibited larger N1 responses compared to nondancers while demonstrating similar biomechanical responses, suggesting dancers have greater cortical sensitivity to balance perturbations. Further, in dancers, modulation of N1 responses across perturbation magnitudes scaled to differences in objective task difficulty. In contrast, nondancer N1 responses were modulated as a function of inter-subject differences in N1 amplitude, potentially reflecting individual balance challenge. Our findings suggest that modern dance training increases sensitivity of the initial, cortical N1 response to balance perturbation, supporting postural alignment to an objective reference. Differences in balance-error processing may thus be altered with specific long-term training, with implications for rehabilitation.
- Research Article
- 10.26689/jcnr.v10i1.13908
- Feb 12, 2026
- Journal of Clinical and Nursing Research
- Kaiyu Yang + 2 more
Objective: To analyze the improvement effect of early postoperative rehabilitation training on balance ability and quality of life in elderly patients with hip fracture. Methods: A total of 50 elderly patients with hip fracture admitted to our hospital from January 2023 to January 2024 were selected and divided into the observation group (25 cases) and the control group (25 cases) by random number table method. The control group received routine nursing, while the observation group received early rehabilitation training on the basis of routine nursing. The balance ability (Berg Balance Scale, BBS) and quality of life (SF-36) of the two groups were compared. Results: The BBS scores of the observation group at all postoperative time points were significantly higher than those of the control group (p < 0.05), and the quality-of-life scores of the observation group were also significantly higher than those of the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Early postoperative rehabilitation training for elderly patients with hip fracture can improve their balance ability, enhance their quality of life, and reduce the incidence of postoperative complications, which is worthy of clinical promotion.
- Research Article
- 10.3389/fphys.2026.1709619
- Feb 11, 2026
- Frontiers in physiology
- Simin Zhang + 9 more
Falls are a leading cause of injury and death among older adults, yet many encounter barriers to engaging in conventional exercise programs. Remote exercise snacking (ES) refers to performing multiple (≥2 times) short bursts (≤10 min) of exercise of any type or intensity daily in a non-laboratory setting (including multiple sets of interval training), with complete rest or at least a 30-min recovery period between each exercise session, this represents a flexible alternative; however, its effectiveness remains inconclusive. This study addresses an important evidence gap by systematically evaluates the impact of remote exercise snacking on lower-limb muscle performance, balance ability, as well as its acceptability and feasibility in older adults. A systematic search was conducted in six databases (CINAHL, PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science and FMRS) from inception to May, 2025. Two reviewers independently performed study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment following PRISMA guidelines. Studies meet the following eligibility criteria in accordance with PICOS, participants were insufficiently active older adults; intervention involved short bouts of exercise; comparator/control were no specific intervention; the primary outcomes was lower-limb muscle function, with secondary outcomes included balance and/or participant adherence or acceptbility; and study design were randomized crossover or randomized control only. Muscle performance and balance outcomes were synthesized through meta-analysis using Stata v15.1 with standardized mean difference (SMD), while adherence and acceptability were evaluated narratively. Four publications comprising ten studies (n = 313, M/F: 170/143) were included. Remote exercise snacking significantly improved lower-limb muscle strength (SMDpooled = 0.29, 95% CI: 0.06-0.52, p = 0.01) and endurance (SMDpooled = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.01-0.46, p = 0.04), but showed no significant effect on balance (SMDpooled = 0.04, 95% CI: -0.14-0.23, p = 0.65). Subgroup analyses showed that greater improvements in strength were observed in interventions lasting 6 weeks or longer and in those that incorporated progression strategies. The overall mean adherence across the included studies was 85%, with adherence generally higher in interventions that provided video-based guidance. Remote exercise snacking appears effective in improving lower-limb muscle function but shows limited impact on balance among healthy older adults. Intervention duration and the inclusion of progression are key determinants of efficacy. The delivery mode (e.g., written materials, video, or app-based platforms) and exercise type (e.g., bodyweight, Tai Chi, or combined formats) may influence the acceptability and feasibility of implementation. The main findings are summarized in a graphical abstract. Identifier CRD42024627584.
- Research Article
- 10.3390/medicina62020357
- Feb 11, 2026
- Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)
- Soyeong Kim + 2 more
Background and Objectives: Phase angle (PhA) derived from bioelectrical impedance analysis reflects muscle quality and cellular integrity and has been associated with functional outcomes after stroke. However, its relationship with functional status at hospital admission and potential sex-based differences remains unclear. This study investigated the association between PhA and functional status at admission in post-stroke patients undergoing convalescent rehabilitation. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 250 post-stroke patients admitted to a convalescent rehabilitation hospital. PhA was measured at admission and classified into high and low groups using sex-specific cutoffs. Functional status was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Functional Ambulation Category (FAC), and the Korean version of the Modified Barthel Index (K-MBI). Sex-stratified logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine associations between functional variables and low PhA. Results: Patients with low PhA showed significantly poorer balance, ambulation, and activities of daily living (ADL) than those with high PhA. In men, low balance (BBS < 41) and low ambulation ability (FAC < 3) were independently associated with low PhA. In women, low ADL performance (K-MBI < 75) was independently associated with low PhA, while balance and ambulation were not. Conclusions: PhA was significantly associated with functional status at admission in post-stroke patients, with distinct sex-specific patterns. PhA may serve as a simple and non-invasive adjunct indicator of functional vulnerability when interpreted with consideration of sex differences.
- Research Article
- 10.1016/j.intimp.2026.116299
- Feb 10, 2026
- International immunopharmacology
- Yong-Xiao Jiang + 13 more
The mechanism study of isoorientin regulating neuroinflammation after subarachnoid hemorrhage through AKT/GSK3β.
- Research Article
- 10.1038/s41598-026-37893-1
- Feb 8, 2026
- Scientific reports
- Yu-Lin You + 8 more
Balance deficits are a common consequence of stroke, increasing the risk of falls. The Pinnacle Trainer (PT), which features a multi-planar exercise trajectory, has been shown to significantly activate hip abductors-key muscles for lateral stability. The elliptical trainer (ET), which simulates gait-like movement, is another commonly used rehabilitation tool. Both may offer viable options for gait training in individuals with chronic stroke. This study investigated the intervention effects of PT and ET on walking and balance abilities in individuals with chronic stroke. Thirty-six individuals with chronic stroke were randomly assigned to one of three groups: Pinnacle Trainer group (n = 12), ET group (n = 12), and control group (n = 12). Each group participated in an 8-week intervention program. The 6-minute walk test, 10-meter walk test, and the center of pressure (COP) displacements during obstacle crossing were measured as outcome measurements. The assessors (one therapist and one biomechanist) were blinded to the participants' group assignments. All groups demonstrated significant improvements on the walking ability. Compared to the ET and control groups, the PT group showed significant improvements in mediolateral COP displacement, indicating enhanced balance and gait performance. These results support the integration of PT exercises into stroke rehabilitation programs targeting functional balance and mobility.
- Research Article
- 10.1016/j.ejon.2026.103111
- Feb 1, 2026
- European journal of oncology nursing : the official journal of European Oncology Nursing Society
- Naomi Takemura + 3 more
Feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of Tai Chi versus mindful yoga on psycho-spiritual distress in patients with advanced cancer: A mixed-method pilot randomized controlled trial.
- Research Article
- 10.23736/s1973-9087.25.09260-3
- Feb 1, 2026
- European journal of physical and rehabilitation medicine
- Yu Qin + 4 more
Community Balance and Mobility Scale (CB&M) is a comprehensive performance-based measure developed to assess functional balance and mobility. It represents a potential balance assessment tool for higher functioning stroke survivors. The aim of this study was to investigate the psychometric property of CB&M in people with stroke. A methodological study evaluating the psychometric properties. The setting of the study was a university-based rehabilitation center. Sixty people with stroke and thirty healthy older adults were included in this study. Participants were recruited from community and assessed using CB&M and other well-established scales. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, 7-day test-retest reliability, inter-rater reliability and construct validity testing and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. The CB&M demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's α=0.943), inter-rater reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.992), and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.983). The CB&M Score showed good to excellent correlations with the Berg Balance Scale (r=0.880, P<0.001) and 10-Metre Walk Test at maximum speed (r=-0.763, P<0.001), significant positive correlations with the Fugl-Meyer Assessment, ankle dorsiflexor strength on the affected side, and components of limits of stability test (r=0.341 - 0.631, P<0.01); and significant negative correlations with reaction time in limits of stability test, 10-Metre Walk Test at usual speed, Timed Up and Go test, and the routine activities domain of the questionnaire (r=-0.283 - -0.715, P<0.05). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that a cutoff score of 62 could distinguish balance performance (area under the curve = 0.966) with high sensitivity (90.0%) and specificity (95.0%). The CB&M is a reliable, valid, sensitive, and specific clinical performance measure for evaluating balance ability in individuals with stroke aged 55 years or above. Clinicians can use this tool to efficiently detect subtle balance and mobility deficits in higher-functioning stroke survivors. It can help clinicians identify those at risk for community mobility limitations and guide targeted rehabilitation to enhance community participation.
- Research Article
- 10.7860/jcdr/2026/80052.22451
- Feb 1, 2026
- JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND DIAGNOSTIC RESEARCH
- Dikshita Rabha + 1 more
Introduction: A stroke is the sudden loss of nerve cells caused by a shortage of oxygen due to an arterial rupture or a blockage in blood flow to the brain. Stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted, resulting in an abrupt loss of neurological function. The Otago Exercise Program (OEP), an evidence-based fall-prevention program composed of muscle strengthening, balance training, and walking, was implemented in this study. Aim: To determine the efficacy of OEP on balance and fall prevention in post-stroke patients. Materials and Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted at the Pews Group of Institution, Bonda, Guwahati, Assam, India, over the period of six months from March 2019 to August 2019. The study involved 30 post-stroke patients irrespective of the underlying vascular territory, who could walk independently without an assistive device and were classified as grade 4 on the functional ambulation category (able to ambulate independently on level surfaces but requiring supervision to negotiate). Participants had no cardiovascular disease, were at Brunnstrom recovery stage 4 (indicating voluntary movements outside synergy patterns and decreasing spasticity), and had no visual or auditory impairment, limb loss, bone impairment in the past years, or cognitive dysfunction. Patients with visual defects, vestibular dysfunction, hypertension, or an inability to follow commands and concentrate on the experiment were excluded. A two-stage sampling method was used: first stratified sampling, followed by simple random sampling. The intervention was administered for eight weeks, three times per week. The first part of the exercise program consisted of strengthening the muscles in the front and back of the knees, hip abductors, calf muscles, and toe extensors. Outcome measures—including the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT), and Falls Efficacy Scale (FES)—were recorded before and after the exercise program to evaluate balance and fall prevention. Using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software, statistical analyses were carried out, and results were presented in terms of mean, standard deviation (SD), and p-value. Results: A total of 30 post-stroke patients participated (23 males and 7 females). A paired t-test revealed a statistically significant improvement in all variables with a p-value <0.001. Significant differences were observed in the BBS mean and SD values (−2.400±−1.773), TUGT (1.5833±1.3646), and FES (4.233±2.315). These findings indicate that OEP improved balance ability, enhanced confidence levels, and reduced fear of falling during activities. Conclusion: The OEP helped participants maintain confidence in performing routine activities without fear of falling while also improving muscle strength and balance. The program demonstrated improvements in all three parameters—BBS, TUGT, and FES—indicating a beneficial effect of OEP on poststroke patients.
- Research Article
- 10.12659/msm.950516
- Jan 29, 2026
- Medical Science Monitor: International Medical Journal of Experimental and Clinical Research
- Jejeong Lee + 2 more
BackgroundPatellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) limits physical activity and quality of life, especially during weight-bearing tasks. Although high-load resistance exercises are recommended for rehabilitation, they may worsen symptoms in pain-sensitive individuals. Low-intensity blood flow restriction (BFR) training has emerged as a potential alternative. However, its effects on functional performance and mechanical properties remain unclear.Material/MethodsIn this assessor-blinded, randomized controlled trial, 41 individuals with PFPS were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (EG, n=20) or the control group (CG, n=19). The EG performed multi-joint resistance exercises combined with BFR, while the CG performed the same program without BFR. Both groups completed the same multi-joint resistance exercise program twice weekly for 6 weeks. Outcome measures included pressure pain threshold (PPT), muscle mechanical properties such as tone and stiffness in the vastus medialis and vastus lateralis, isometric knee extensor strength, and balance ability. Balance was evaluated using the Y-Balance Test and the stair-descending task.ResultsThe EG showed significantly greater improvements in knee strength, PPT, and balance (P<0.05). Notably, significant increases in muscle tone were observed in the vastus medialis and lateralis muscles, as well as muscle stiffness in the vastus medialis and semitendinosus muscles.ConclusionsLow-intensity BFR multi-joint resistance exercise may be an effective intervention for improving physical function, pain, and mechanical properties in patients with PFPS.
- Research Article
- 10.53469/jcmp.2026.08(01).17
- Jan 29, 2026
- Journal of Contemporary Medical Practice
- Runan Xie + 3 more
Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world. With the deepening of the understanding of self-management behavior, the research on self-management behavior of glaucoma patients has become a hot issue. This study reviewed the influencing factors, intervention measures and related research tools of self-management behavior of glaucoma patients, in order to provide reference for self-management and related research of glaucoma patients. With the progress of society, glaucoma has become a serious eye disease. Its typical symptoms include obvious atrophy of the optic nerve, decreased vision, and even blindness [1]. At present, it has become the second largest blinding eye disease in the world. The prevalence rate in China has reached 20 % [2] and is developing in a younger direction. Some young patients with glaucoma will suddenly have serious consequences, and their vision will be greatly weakened within a few days or hours, while some teenagers have no symptoms at all, which will eventually lead to the loss of teenagers. It is estimated that there are currently 60.5 million young people in the global age group, and by 2050, this number is expected to exceed 110 million people [3]. There are currently 60.5 million young people in the world, and this number is expected to exceed 100 million by 2035. Due to the visual field defect caused by glaucoma, the patient's balance ability will be reduced, and accidental falls will occur [4]. Visual field defect blindness will cause a huge economic burden on society [5]. The irreversible blindness caused by glaucoma should be paid attention to. The 13 th Five-Year National Eye Health Plan [6] emphasizes that eye health is urgent for national health. It can not only alleviate the suffering of patients, improve their physical health, but also reduce the huge pressure they bear, so as to provide strong support for the development of the country and build a healthy and sustainable international environment.