Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation Research Articles

Relationship between cachexia and short physical performance battery scores in patients with heart failure attending comprehensive outpatient cardiac rehabilitation.

Heart failure (HF) can cause metabolic imbalances, leading to anabolic resistance and increased energy expenditure, which often results in weight loss and cachexia. Comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation (CR), including exercise, nutritional support, and risk management, is crucial for enhancing the health and quality of life of patients with HF and is expected to play a central role in the prevention and treatment of HF-associated cachexia. However, the prevalence of cachexia in patients with HF undergoing comprehensive outpatient CR is currently unknown, and the detailed characteristics including of motor function of such patients remain undefined. Therefore, this cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of cachexia and the relationship between cachexia and lower limb motor function in patients with HF undergoing outpatient CR. This study included 115 consecutive patients with HF (43% male; mean age, 78 ± 8years) who underwent comprehensive outpatient CR. The cachexia status was assessed according to the definition proposed by the Asian Working Group on Cachexia in 2023. The Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and Mini Nutritional Assessment Short-Form (MNA-SF) were used to evaluate motor function of the lower limbs and nutritional status, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to examine the potential relationship between cachexia and low SPPB scores (≤ 9 points). The prevalence of cachexia was 30% in this study. Compared with those without cachexia, patients with cachexia were significantly older and showed notable reductions in body mass index, MNA-SF scores, handgrip strength, gait speed, and SPPB scores. A multivariate logistic regression analysis, adjusted for confounders, revealed that both age (odds ratio [OR], 1.129; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.034-1.248; P = 0.016) and presence of cachexia (OR, 3.783; 95% CI, 1.213-11.796; P = 0.022) were independently associated with low SPPB scores. These findings highlight the importance of focusing on cachexia in patients with HF as part of a comprehensive outpatient CR and may be crucial in developing treatments to improve lower limb motor function in patients with HF who develops cachexia.

Use of hydrobalneotherapy in ambulatory rehabilitation of patients with post-COVID syndrome

BACKGROUND: Post-COVID syndrome ostcoid syndrome is a consequence of the multimodal systemic effect of the SARS-CoV-2 virus on the human body, and leads to a variety of clinical symptoms that require correction. In particular, there is an increase in the level of allostatic load and the risk of maladaptation. One of the means of effective non-drug effects on the separated consequences of COVID-19 is the use of hydrobalneotherapy methods as part of a rehabilitation course.
 AIM: To study the influence of various hydrobalneotherapy methods as part of comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation on the clinical-functional and psychoemotional status of patients with post-COVID syndrome.
 MATERIALS AND METHODS: 160 patients undergoing outpatient rehabilitation for manifestations of post-COVID syndrome, 74 men and 86 women, with a median age of 50 [43; 55.1] years, were comprehensively examined. Patients were randomized to 4 groups of 40, depending on the non-drug exposure method in the rehabilitation program: 1st group ― with the inclusion in the individual rehabilitation program of a course of chloride-sodium mineral baths in the amount of 10 procedures, 2nd group ― patients who were assigned a 10-day course of hot tubs, 3rd group ― 40 patients, along with exercise therapy, who underwent a 10-day course of general baths "Biolong", and 4th, control group of patients who did not undergo outpatient rehabilitation.
 RESULTS: The most frequent complaints were increased fatigue ― 88.8% of subjects, memory loss ― 46.9%, headache and dizziness ― 38.8%, dyspnea during physical activity ― 35.6%. The most frequent electrocardiogram parameters were sinus tachycardia (4.4%) and sinus bradycardia (8.1%). The mean allostatic load index of all patients was 3 [2; 3], which corresponds to the average allostatic overload. Against the background of rehabilitation measures with the inclusion of preformed physical factors, regression of the main complaints (weakness was detected in 24.2% of cases, memory decline ― in 20%, headache, dizziness ― in 17.5%, dyspnea ― in 15%, sleep disturbance ― in 10%, tachycardia and discomfort in the heart area ― in 7.5%) and improvement of electrocardiogram parameters were noted: sinus tachycardia and ventricular extrasystole were not noted, bradycardia was recorded in 2.5% of cases instead of 8.1%, repolarization process disorders ― in 2.5% instead of 8.1% before rehabilitation. In the group of patients who received whirlpool baths, improvement of external respiratory function parameters was noted: forced vital capacity of lungs increased by 12.1% (p 0.01), forced expiratory volume in the 1st second ― by 9.6% (р 0.05), the distance traveled according to the results of the test with 6-minute walking increased by 2.2% (р 0.05). In the group of those who received general baths with the preparation "Biolong", there was registered an increase in forced expiratory volume in the 1st second by 9.4% (р 0.05), an increase in the distance traveled during the 6-minute walk test by 8, 3% (р 0.05), decrease in norepinephrine level by 17.4% (р 0.05), adrenaline level by 13% (р 0.05) and cortisol level by 26.2% (р 0.01), glutathione peroxidase activity level by 13.6% (р 0.05). In the group of patients who received sodium chloride baths, there was a tendency to improvement of central hemodynamic parameters, reduction of adrenaline and noradrenaline parameters by 14.5% and 19.7% respectively (р 0.05). All rehabilitation groups showed a decrease in the Beck depression scale and Spielberger anxiety scale, K. Maslach questionnaire (emotional exhaustion and reduction of personal achievements), Bass–Perry aggression level questionnaire and Schulte table (mental stability), as well as a decrease in the level of allostatic load. In the control group, no dynamics of complaints and indicators was noted.
 CONCLUSION: In patients with post-COVID syndrome, a variety of complaints and a number of electrocardiogram disorders, clinical and functional parameters were identified. The study revealed positive dynamics against the background of the rehabilitation course with the inclusion of hydrobalneotherapy methods in the form of significant regression of complaints, clinical and functional disorders and changes in psychoemotional background and cognitive status. A decrease in allostatic load was noted after a course of non-drug rehabilitation.

Effects of Comprehensive Outpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation on Exercise Capacity, Functional Status, and Quality of Life in People With Heart Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The purpose of this study was to systematically review and conduct a meta-analysis to examine the impact of comprehensive outpatient cardiac rehabilitation on exercise capacity, functional status, and quality of life in patients with heart failure. PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL were searched using keywords and MeSH terms on heart failure and cardiac rehabilitation. Randomized clinical trials published in English using outpatient exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation in patients with heart failure were included. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation was utilized for quality appraisal. Pooled estimates were computed using standardized mean differences (SMDs) and 95% CIs. Primary outcomes were functional status (6-minute walk distance, quality of life, exercise capacity using peak oxygen consumption, muscle strength, and endurance). Eleven randomized controlled trials including 1523 participants ranging from 45 to 80years old and an intervention duration ranging from 2 to 26weeks were analyzed. Pooled results indicated significant improvements with comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation on 6-minute walk distance (SMD = 0.30; 95% CI = 0.06 to 0.54) and oxygen consumption (SMD = 0.23; 95% CI = 0.06 to 0.40). However, there was no additional benefit for the quality of life beyond that seen in the comparison groups. Results of this study suggest that comprehensive outpatient cardiac rehabilitation is associated with significantly better clinical outcomes than single-component exercise programs in cardiac rehabilitation settings, multicomponent exercise in noncardiac rehabilitation settings, or no exercise. Heart failure is significantly associated with an increased risk of poor exercise tolerance. Despite the proven benefit of cardiac rehabilitation on exercise tolerance and physical activities from individual randomized clinical trials, questions regarding its impact on clinical outcomes such as exercise capacity, functional status, and quality of life remain inadequate. This systematic review and meta-analysis provides strong evidence supporting comprehensive outpatient cardiac rehabilitation for improving clinical outcomes in heart failure.

Long-term efficiency of pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchiectasis, and asthma: Does it differ?

The long-term effects of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) and maintenance programs in obstructive pulmonary diseases have not been sufficiently investigated, particularly in diseases other than COPD. This retrospective study aimed to examine the long-term results of individualized comprehensive outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with obstructive pulmonary disease. This study is a single-center, retrospective cohort study. Between 2010 and 2019, 269 patients with chronic airway obstruction were treated in our multidisciplinary PR center at a tertiary training and research hospital, and they were divided into three groups based on their diagnosis: COPD, bronchiectasis, and asthma. Patients' perceptions of dyspnea, exercise capacity, inspiratory and peripheral muscle strength, body composition, quality of life, and psychosocial status were compared at the beginning, end, and 12th and 24th months of PR. Improvements in dyspnea perception remained longer in asthmatics than in the other two groups. The increases in exercisecapacity in the bronchiectasis and asthma groups lasted two years. All groups maintained their respiratory muscle strength gains at the end of the second year. Improvements in hand grip strength in the COPD and bronchiectasis groups have been sustained for two years, but in the asthma group, enhancements were lost in the second year. Even after the second year, quality of life was still better than the baseline in all groups, despite a worsening in the first year. However, groups anxiety and depression improvements were not sustained after the first year. The long-term effectiveness of PR in patients with bronchiectasis and asthma was similar to that of COPD patients. Therefore,multidisciplinary, comprehensive PR programs should be integrated into the management of patients with bronchiectasis and asthma. We also recommend structured follow-up programs to maintain gains and to detect the need for rerehabilitation.

Average and Interindividual Effects to a Comprehensive Cardiovascular Rehabilitation Program.

Background: To describe the average effects and the interindividual variability after a comprehensive outpatient cardiovascular rehabilitation (CCR) program using concurrent exercise training prescribed according to cardiovascular risk stratification on cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), anthropometric/body composition, quality of life and emotional health in patients of four cardiovascular disease profiles. Methods: CRF, anthropometric/body composition, quality of life, and emotional health were measured before and after a CCR and analyzed in heart valve surgery (HVS), heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), post-acute myocardial infarction (post-AMI), and in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients. Twenty, twenty-four, and thirty-two exercise sessions were prescribed according to mild, moderate, and severe baseline cardiovascular risk, respectively. In addition to concurrent exercise training, nutritional counseling, psychological support, and lifestyle education programs were performed. Results: The main outcomes by delta changes comparisons (Δ) revealed no significant differences at anthropometric/body composition as ΔBody fat decreases (HVS Δ−1.1, HFrEF Δ−1.0, post-AMI Δ−1.4, CAD Δ−1.2 kg) and ΔSkeletal muscle mass increases (HVS Δ+1.4, HFrEF Δ+0.8, post-AMI Δ+0.9, CAD Δ+0.9 kg), and CRF performance as ΔVO2peak increases (HVS Δ+4.3, HFrEF Δ+4.8, post-AMI Δ+4.1, CAD Δ+5.1 mL/kg/min) outcomes among HVS, HFrEF, post-AMI, and CAD (p > 0.05). Secondary outcomes showed significant pre-post delta changes in METs (HVS Δ+1.8, HFrEF Δ+0.7, post-AMI Δ+1.4, CAD Δ+1.4), and maximal O2pulse (HVS Δ+3.1, post-AMI Δ+2.1, CAD Δ+1.9). In addition, quality of life had a significant improvement in physical functioning (HVS Δ+17.0, HFrEF Δ+12.1, post-AMI Δ+9.8, CAD Δ+11.2), physical role (HVS Δ+28.4, HFrEF Δ+26.8, post-AMI Δ+25.6, CAD Δ+25.3), vitality (HVS Δ+18.4, HFrEF Δ+14.3, post-AMI Δ+14.2, CAD Δ+10.6) and social functioning (HVS Δ+20.4, HFrEF Δ+25.3, post-AMI Δ+20.4, CAD Δ+14.8) in all cardiovascular disease. For anxiety (HVS Δ−3.6, HFrEF Δ−2.3, post-AMI Δ−3.0, CAD Δ−3.1) and depression (HVS Δ−2.8, HFrEF Δ−3.4, post-AMI Δ−3.2, CAD Δ−2.3) significant changes were also observed. Conclusions: A CCR program that prescribes the number of exercise sessions using a cardiovascular risk stratification improves CRF, QoL, and emotional health, and the average results show a wide interindividual variability (~25% of non-responders) in this sample of four CVD profile of patients.

Association between SGLT2 Inhibitors and Cardiac Rehabilitation Outcomes in Patients with Cardiovascular Disease and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

The use of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been associated with decreased skeletal muscle mass but remains unclear in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD) undergoing comprehensive outpatient cardiac rehabilitation (CR). Therefore, this study investigates the effect of SGLT2 inhibitors on the outcomes of patients with CVD and T2DM undergoing comprehensive outpatient CR. The study included 402 patients with CVD and T2DM who participated in comprehensive outpatient CR. Physical functions (grip strength, maximal quadriceps isometric strength, usual gait speed, and 6-minute walking distance) were measured at discharge as baseline and 5 months thereafter, and the association between physical functions and SGLT2 inhibitor use was reviewed. Physical functions improved regardless of SGLT2 inhibitor use. Multiple regression analysis showed that SGLT2 inhibitor use was not associated with improvement or decline in physical functions (p ≥ 0.05). The use of SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with CVD and T2DM undergoing outpatient CR did not impair improvement in physical functions.

Outcomes of pulmonary rehabilitation after lung resection in patients with lung cancer.

Background In this study, we aimed to examine the effectiveness of pulmonary rehabilitation applied after resection in patients with lung cancer. Methods Between October 2017 and December 2019, a total of 66 patients (53 males, 13 females; median age: 65 years; range, 58 to 70 years) who underwent lung resection for non-small cell lung cancer and who were not administered any chemotherapy or radiotherapy regimen were included in the study. An eight-week comprehensive outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation program was applied to half of the patients, while the other half received respiratory exercise training. After the intervention, the results of both groups were compared. Results In the pulmonary rehabilitation group, forced vital capacity value (p=0.011), six-minute walking distance (p<0.001), and Short Form-36 physical function, mental health, vitality scores increased significantly, while all scores of St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire, dyspnea (p<0.001) and anxiety score (p=0.041) significantly decreased. In the group given breathing exercise training, only dyspnea (p=0.046) and St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire symptom scores (p=0.038) were decreased. When the changes in the groups after pulmonary rehabilitation were compared, the decrease in dyspnea perception was significantly higher in the pulmonary rehabilitation group (p<0.001). Conclusion Pulmonary rehabilitation program applied after lung resection in patients with non-small cell lung cancer reduces dyspnea and psychological symptoms, increases exercise capacity, and improves quality of life. It should be ensured that patients with lung cancer who have undergone lung resection are directed to the pulmonary rehabilitation program and benefit from this program.

Effect of counselling during pulmonary rehabilitation on self-determined motivation to be physically active for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a pragmatic RCT

BackgroundCounselling is considered to be a promising approach to increasing physical activity (PA) in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The aim of the current study was to investigate whether a PA counselling program for people with COPD, when embedded in a comprehensive outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) program, increased their daily PA.MethodsA two-armed, single blind randomized controlled trial was conducted as a component of a 12-week outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation program. The participants randomized into the intervention group received five counselling sessions, based on the principles of motivational interviewing (MI), with a physiotherapist. The participants’ steps per day and other proxies of PA were measured using an accelerometer (SenseWear Pro®) at baseline, at the end of the PR program, and three months later. The group-by-time interaction effect was analyzed.ResultsOf the 43 participants,17 were allocated to the intervention group and 26 to the usual-care control group (mean age 67.9 ± 7.9; 21 (49%) males; mean FEV1 predicted 47.1 ± 18.6). No difference between groups was found for any measure of PA at any point in time.ConclusionsIn this study, counselling, based on MI, when embedded in a comprehensive PR program for people with COPD, showed no short-term or long-term effects on PA behavior. To investigate this potentially effective counselling intervention and to analyze the best method, timing and tailoring of an intervention embedded in a comprehensive outpatient PR program, further adequately powered research is needed.Trial registration: Clinical Trials.gov NCT02455206 (05/21/2015), Swiss National Trails Portal SNCTP000001426 (05/21/2015).

Changes in the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health Components "Activity/Participation" as Predicted Through Patient-Reported Outcomes Along With Comprehensive Back Pain Rehabilitation.

Objectives:The World Health Organization (WHO) recommended the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) but its use in clinical practice is sparse. This study investigated the limitations and restrictions in the most relevant brief ICF core set categories for chronic low back pain (cLBP) as automatically predicted from routinely measured outcomes using a novel, validated mapping algorithm.Materials and Methods:Of 2718 cLBP patients recruited, data from 1541 (64% females) were available from before and at the end of 6 months comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation. Assessments included the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) and Pain Disability Index (PDI) questionnaires, the percentage of patients with predicted limitations and restrictions in important activity and participation ICF categories, bodily functional measurements, pain intensity, and anxiety/depression (EQ-5D).Results:At baseline, both the RMDQ and the PDI measures were within the third of the lowest disability scores whilst 80% of the patients had limitations with “maintaining a body position” and 30% with “walking” ICF categories. Intervention-associated gains in the maximum isometric lumbar extension and flexion strength and the lumbar range of motion were significant overall, but improvements in patients’ ICF limitations/restrictions varied. Anxiety/depression, lumbar range of motion, and extension strength all had a significant impact on the majority of the ICF categories, whereas flexion strength had none.Discussion:The rate of patients with predicted limitations/restrictions in activity/participation ICF core categories for cLBP partly mirrored disability levels and the impact of the body function scores on these limitations/restrictions in ICF categories was varied. Thus, assessing problems in the ICF activity/participation core categories is of relevance to clinical practice for both treatment goal setting and intervention planning. This may be achieved by computer-generated mapping without additional time burden.

Feasibility of an Outpatient Training Program after COVID-19.

Long-term physical consequences of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are currently being reported. As a result, the focus is turning towards interventions that support recovery after hospitalization. To date, the feasibility of an outpatient program for people recovering from COVID-19 has not been investigated. This study presents data for a physiotherapy-led, comprehensive outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) program. Patients were recruited after hospital discharge. Training consisted of twice weekly, interval-based aerobic cycle endurance (ACE) training, followed by resistance training (RT); 60–90 min per session at intensities of 50% peak work rate; education and physical activity coaching were also provided. Feasibility outcomes included: recruitment and dropout rates, number of training sessions undertaken, and tolerability for dose and training mode. Of the 65 patients discharged home during the study period, 12 were successfully enrolled onto the program. Three dropouts (25%) were reported after 11–19 sessions. Tolerability of interval-based training was 83% and 100% for exercise duration of ACE and RT, respectively; 92% for training intensity, 83% progressive increase of intensity, and 83% mode in ACE. We tentatively suggest from these preliminary findings that the PR protocol used may be both feasible, and confer benefits to a small subgroup of patients recovering from COVID-19.

Hyperbaric oxygenation in outpatient rehabilitation of COVID-19 convalescents

To study the effect of hyperbaric oxygenation as a part of comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation on clinical and functional parameters in COVID-19 convalescents. The effect of hyperbaric oxygenation on clinical and functional parameters of 45 COVID-19 convalescents was studied: 22 males and 23 females aged 40-60 years. Patients were divided into three groups of 15 subjects each, depending on the CT stage of COVID-associated pneumonia (CT-0, CT-1, and CT-2-3). Patients in group 3 (CT-2-3) were on average in the older age group, had a higher body weight and a higher percentage of fat mass according to bioimpedance measurements, compared to the other groups. Most clinical-functional and laboratory parameters in this group were within normal or subnormal ranges. In addition, high cholesterol levels (total cholesterol 6.5±1.2 mmol/L) and subnormal levels of C-reactive protein (9.3 mg/L) were noted in group 3 patients. After comprehensive rehabilitation, an increase in the distance walked in the 6-minute walking test with a significant trend in the CT-0 (467.9±37.7→531.5±44.3 m; p<0.01) and CT-1 (533.9±74.3→570.1±57.8 m; p<0.05) groups was observed. A significant decrease in norepinephrine level in the group of COVID-19 convalescents with CT-2-3 (Δ 13%), and a decrease in glutathione peroxidase in all three groups (6465.0±1637.3→5101.0±1353.3, 6587.8±1919.3→5418.1±1289.7, 7699.5±1747.9→6620.1±1702.1 units/L in groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively; p<0.05) were recorded. The use of hyperbaric oxygenation in comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation of COVID-19 convalescents was associated with benefits, given the improvement of functional parameters, laboratory signs of limiting low-grade inflammation, sympathoadrenal activity, and oxidative stress.

Efficacy of extended, comprehensive outpatient cardiac rehabilitation on cardiovascular risk factors: A nationwide registry

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a key component of the treatment of cardiac diseases. The Austrian outpatient CR model is unique, as it provides patients with an extended professionally supervised, multidisciplinary program of 4-6 weeks of phase II (OUT-II) and 6-12 months of phase III (OUT-III) CR. The aim of this analysis was to assess the efficacy of the Austrian outpatient CR model using a nationwide registry. Data of all consecutive patients (N = 7560) who completed OUT-II and/or OUT-III between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2015 were entered prospectively into a registry. OUT-III patients were analyzed separately according to whether the preceding phase II was performed as outpatient (OUT-II/OUT-III, N = 2403) or in-patient (IN-II/OUT-III, N = 2789). All patients underwent assessment of anthropometry, resting blood pressure, lipid profile, fasting blood glucose, exercise capacity, quality of life, anxiety and depression. During OUT-II, patients significantly improved their metabolic risk factor profile and increased exercise capacity by 14.3%. OUT-II/OUT-III patients achieved an additional increase in exercise capacity by 10%, further improvement in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and stabilization of the remaining risk factors. IN-II/OUT-III patients increased their maximal exercise capacity by 18.4% and there was improvement in blood pressure, HDL, low-density lipoprotein and glucose levels. Extended, professionally supervised, multidisciplinary outpatient CR in a large nationwide registry of consecutive patients consistently improved maximal exercise capacity and relevant modifiable cardiovascular risk factors beyond effects seen after IN- or OUT-II alone.

Impact of the comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation on reducing intensification of depressive symptoms in people over 60 years of age

Abstract Introduction. As a result of involution processes and diseases, changes occur in the human body, as a result of which, psychophysical fitness declines with age. Comprehensive rehabilitation is the way of improving and maintaining health condition, including, among others, the appropriate level of physical activity and the quality of affective functioning. This type of program was carried out as part of the Outpatient Healthcare Home (DDOM) at the Witold Chodźko Institute of Rural Health in Lublin. Aim. The objective of the present study was to assess the impact of comprehensive ambulatory rehabilitation, including tailored endurance training preceded by an ergospirometry test, on indicators demonstrating the level of involvement in daily physical activities and the severity of depressive symptoms of patients over 60 years of age receiving health services at DDOM. Material and methods. The study involved 60 seniors participating in the rehabilitation cycle implemented as part of the services provided to patients at DDOM of the Witold Chodźko Institute of Rural Health in Lublin. The tests were carried out in the test-retest model on the first and last day of the kinesiotherapy cycle. The tests were performed with use of International Physical Activity Questionnaire IPAQ and Geriatric Depression Scale GDS. The patient rehabilitation program included adapted systemic kinesiotherapy (endurance training with a load determined according to individual exercise capacity, as determined on the basis of the ergospirometry test) and local kinesiotherapy and physical therapy adapted to the needs resulting from the condition of the musculoskeletal system. Results. After the completion of the rehabilitation cycle we compared the tests carried out before it, and the patients received higher scores in the scales of IPAQ questionnaire for measuring weekly, intensive and mode-rate physical activity and time required for walking and were less likely to spend their time sitting or lying down. There were also lower scores of the respondents in GDS scale used to assess the severity of depressive symptoms. Conclusions. As a result of the rehabilitation program applied, DDOM patients simultaneously obtained the desired changes in the level of involvement in physical activity and minimization of the intensity of depressive symptoms.

Comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation increases the ability of people over 60 to live independently.

The answer to current social and health needs of people aged over 60 are the multidirectional and carefully planned, comprehensive activation and rehabilitation activities carried out as part of Daycare Centres (DCC). The aim of creating and the functioning of DCCs deployed all over Poland is to improve the health and psychophysical fitness of this group of people. Health factors and psychophysical fitness determine the ability to live independently, both today, and later in life. The objective of the study was to assess the impact of comprehensive ambulatory rehabilitation, including tailored endurance training preceded by an ergospirometry test, on indicators demonstrating the ability to live independently and the risk ratio of future health problems in the elderly. 60 people participating in a rehabilitation cycle implemented as part of the services provided to patients aged over 60 in the DCC of the Witold Chodźko Institute of Rural Medicine (IMW) in Lublin comprised the sample. The tests were carried out in the test-retest model on the first and last day of the kinesiotherapy cycle. Patients were tested using standardized Barthel, I-ADL and VES-13 questionnaires. The rehabilitation programme applied included systemic kinesiotherapy (endurance training) with a load determined according to individual exercise capacity, determined on the basis of a ergospirometry test, and varied rehabilitation activities resulting from the condition of the locomotor system, as provided for under the project. After completing the rehabilitation cycle, patients obtained higher results in comparison to the tests carried out before the beginning of the cycle in the Barthel index used to measure functional efficiency (Z = 5.41; p = 0.001), as well as lower in the I-ADL scale used to test the degree of dependence on the help of others when performing complex activities of everyday life (Z = 2.63; p = 0.009) and in VES-13 scale used to assess the risk of geriatric health problems (Z = 5.47; p = 0.001). As the result of the use of comprehensive rehabilitation, including obligatory endurance training, desired changes were achieved in terms of fitness and independence in performing advanced daily activities and reducing the risk of geriatric health problems.

The efficiency of the medical rehabilitation program with the use of injectable naltrexone for alcohol addicted patients who are at risk of parental rights deprivation

To evaluate the efficacy of treatment of patients at risk of deprivation of parental rights due to alcohol dependence under the 'Point of Soberness' program including psychotherapy and intramuscular injections of extended-release naltrexone (vivitrol). Results of therapy of 45 patients, 39 women and 6 men, are presented. Out of 45 patients, 42 (93.3%) received a full course of injections of prolonged naltrexone (6 or more) as part of a comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation program. Thirty-six (80.0%) patients maintained a remission. In 9 patients (20.0%), single breakdowns and breakdowns, resulting in a relapse of the disease were recorded. Forty-two patients (93.3%) retained their parental rights. The return of children was made in one case. The 'Point of Soberness' program makes it possible to achieve long remission of alcohol dependence, and to keep parental rights for these patients.

Effect of Inpatient Multicomponent Occupational Rehabilitation Versus Less Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation on Sickness Absence in Persons with Musculoskeletal- or Mental Health Disorders: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Purpose To assess effects of an inpatient multicomponent occupational rehabilitation program compared to less comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation on sickness absence in persons with musculoskeletal- or mental health disorders. Methods Randomized clinical trial with parallel groups. Participants were individuals 18–60 years old on sick-leave for 2–12 months with a sick-leave diagnosis within the musculoskeletal, psychological or general and unspecified chapters of ICPC-2, identified in a national register. The inpatient program (4 + 4 days) consisted of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), physical training and work-related problem-solving including creating a return to work plan and a workplace visit if considered relevant. The outpatient program consisted primarily of ACT (6 sessions during 6 weeks). Both programs were group based. Primary outcome was cumulated number of sickness absence days at 6 and 12 months follow-up. Secondary outcome was time until sustainable return to work. Results 168 individuals were randomized to the inpatient program (n = 92) or the outpatient program (n = 76). We found no statistically significant difference between the programs in median number of sickness absence days at 6 and 12 months follow-up. In the outpatient program 57% of the participants achieved sustainable return to work (median time 7 months), in the inpatient program 49% (log rank, p = 0.167). The hazard ratio for sustainable return to work was 0.74 (95% CI 0.48–1.32, p = 0.165), in favor of the outpatient program. Conclusions This study provided no support that the more comprehensive 4 + 4 days inpatient multicomponent occupational rehabilitation program reduced sickness absence compared to the outpatient rehabilitation program.

Effects of Inpatient Multicomponent Occupational Rehabilitation versus Less Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation on Somatic and Mental Health: Secondary Outcomes of a Randomized Clinical Trial

Purpose To evaluate effects on somatic and mental health of a multicomponent inpatient occupational rehabilitation program compared to a less comprehensive outpatient program in individuals on sick leave for musculoskeletal complaints or mental health disorders. Methods A randomized clinical trial with parallel groups. Participants were individuals on sick-leave for 2–12 months with a sick-leave diagnosis within the musculoskeletal, psychological or general and unspecified chapters of ICPC-2. Potential participants were identified in the Social Security System Registry. The multicomponent inpatient program (4 + 4 days) consisted of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, physical training and work-related problem-solving including creating a return to work plan and a workplace visit if considered relevant. The comparative outpatient program consisted primarily of ACT (6 sessions during 6 weeks). Self-reported health-related quality of life, subjective health complaints, pain and anxiety and depression symptoms were assessed up to 12 months after the program. Results 168 individuals were randomized to the multicomponent inpatient program (n = 92) or the outpatient program (n = 76). Linear mixed models showed no statistically significant differences between the programs, except for slightly more reduced pain after the outpatient program. Conclusions This study presents no support that a 4 + 4 days multicomponent inpatient rehabilitation program is superior to a less comprehensive outpatient program, in improving health outcomes.

Is There a Role for Cardiac Rehabilitation After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting? Treatment After Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery Remains Incomplete Without Rehabilitation.

Is There a Role for Cardiac Rehabilitation After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting? Treatment After Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery Remains Incomplete Without Rehabilitation.

Evaluation of a Physical Activity Behavior Change Program for Individuals With a Brain Injury

ObjectiveTo investigate the effectiveness of a physical activity intervention for use within a comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation program for individuals with brain injury. DesignQuasi-experimental comparison group design with 3-month follow-up. SettingComprehensive outpatient rehabilitation clinic that is a transitional setting between acute inpatient rehabilitation and community dwelling. ParticipantsIndividuals (N=47) with a brain injury were enrolled into either the intervention (n=22; 8 women, 14 men; mean age, 48.68y) or control group (n=25; 9 women, 16 men; mean age, 46.23y). InterventionConsisted of an 8-week informational and social/behavioral program that focused on enabling individuals to become independently active. The control group completed the standard of care typically available to patients in comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation. Main Outcome MeasuresBehavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey self-report physical activity items, Exercise Self-Efficacy Scale, and Mayo-Portland Adaptability Inventory-4. ResultsThe intervention group reported significantly (P<.001) greater weekly activity, self-efficacy, and rehabilitation outcomes at the completion of the program as well as at the 3-month follow-up when compared with the control group. Significantly, individuals in the experimental group reported increasing their weekly activity from 45 minutes preprogram to 72 minutes postprogram (d=2.12; 95% confidence interval, 1.78–2.52), and 67 minutes at 3-month follow-up. ConclusionsFindings suggest that the intervention may be effective in increasing the physical activity behaviors of individuals engaged in a comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation program after brain injury.

Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation Program: Hospital-Based Stroke Outpatient Rehabilitation

Few studies have considered the effectiveness of outpatient rehabilitation programs for stroke patients. The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a hospital-based interdisciplinary outpatient stroke rehabilitation program with respect to physical functioning, mobility, and balance. The Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation Program provides a hospital-based interdisciplinary approach to stroke rehabilitation in Southwestern Ontario. Outcome measures from physiotherapy and occupational therapy sessions were available at intake and discharge from the program. A series of paired sample t-tests were performed to assess patient changes between time points for each outcome measure. A total of 271 patients met the inclusion criteria for analysis (56.1% male; mean age = 62.9 ± 13.9 years). Significant improvements were found between admission and discharge for the Functional Independence Measure, grip strength, Chedoke-McMaster Stroke Assessment, two-minute walk test, maximum walk test, Timed Up and Go, Berg Balance Scale, and one-legged stance (P < .003 for all). The findings indicate that an interdisciplinary rehabilitation program was effective at improving the physical functioning, mobility, and balance of individuals after a stroke. A hospital-based, stroke-specific rehabilitation program should be considered when patients continue to experience deficits after inpatient rehabilitation.