Flexible Ruler Research Articles

Are cervical curvature and axioscapular muscle activity associated with disability in patients with chronic nonspecific neck pain? - a cross sectional exploratory study.

To ascertain the relationship between cervical curvature, neck muscle activity and neck disability in patients with chronic nonspecific neck pain (CNNP). Ninety participants (mean age = 27.2, female/male ratio = 7/2) with CNNP volunteered. The Neck Disability Index was used to assess neck disability. To indicate the electromyographic characteristics of the axioscapular muscles, the root mean squares and median frequencies of upper trapezius and levator scapula were used. Cervical curvature was measured with a flexible ruler. Disability of the neck was significantly correlated with curvature (r = -0.599, p < 0.001), upper trapezius root mean square (RMS) (r = 0.694, p < 0.001) and levator RMS (r = 0.429, p < 0.05). Multiple regression analysis produced a significant predictive equation that could predict disability: 33.224- 0.515 × Curvature + 0.156 × Levator RMS - 0.059 × Upper trapezius median frequency + 0.636 × upper trapezius RMS + 0.020 × levator median frequency, with R2 = 0.622. Cervical curvature as well as different axioscapular muscle activity were found to be related to level of disability. These findings have implications for clinical management of CNNP.

Comparison of anterior and posterior teeth dimensions between artificial teeth and natural dentition - An in vivo study

Background: The aesthetic and functional aspects of artificial tooth selection are pivotal for an individual's quality of life, a skill paramount to every prosthodontist. It gives a pleasing, expressive and confident life to the patient. Aim: This study aimed to juxtapose the dimensions of natural maxillary and mandibular anterior and posterior teeth with those of three commercially available denture teeth brands: Acryrock, Biorock, and Ivoclar Vivadent, taking into account gender variations Materials and Methods: Dentate casts from 23 males and 77 females were scrutinized for length and width of the natural anterior and posterior teeth dimensions. These measurements, collected by a single examiner employing a digital vernier calliper and flexible ruler, were subsequently compared to the specifications provided in the respective denture teeth mold charts. like Acryrock, Biorock, Ivoclar vivadent. The dimensions thus obtained are compared between the three systems of artificial teeth and natural teeth for selecting the best system of artificial teeth for complete denture prosthesis. Results : The study revealed that all three artificial teeth systems matched the width of natural maxillary anterior teeth. However, only the Ivoclar Vivadent teeth set closely resembled the dimensions of mandibular anterior and posterior teeth, as well as maxillary posterior teeth, across both genders. Conclusion: The findings confirm the feasibility of employing natural teeth dimensions to determine the size of anterior and posterior artificial teeth for complete denture prosthesis fabrication, providing a statistically and mathematically supported approach. keywords: artificial teeth, aesthetics, complete denture, dentulous subjects, mesiodistal width, prosthesis.

The Effect of a Course of Yoga Exercises on Menstrual Pain and Distress in Women with Primary Dysmenorrhea with and Without Lumbar Hyperlordosis

Background: Primary dysmenorrhea is the most common complaint related to menstrual disorders among women and young girls. The goal of this research was to examine the effect of yoga exercises on menstrual pain and distress in female students aged 20 - 35 years with primary dysmenorrhea, both with and without lumbar hyperlordosis. Despite the research and studies conducted in the field of primary dysmenorrhea, many aspects of the condition remain unknown. This study aims to provide new insights for the audience. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a course of yoga exercises on menstrual pain and distress in women with primary dysmenorrhea, both with and without lumbar hyperlordosis. Methods: The statistical population of the present study included 60 eligible female patients aged 20 to 35 years, selected through available and targeted sampling. Participants were divided into an experimental group (15 individuals with hyperlordosis and 15 individuals without hyperlordosis) and a control group (15 individuals). Those with hyperlordosis had a lumbar lordosis angle above 30 degrees. Patients in the experimental group participated in yoga exercises for eight weeks, with three sessions per week, each lasting one hour. Variables were evaluated before and after the eight-week intervention. Menstrual pain, menstrual distress, and lumbar lordosis were measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MMDQ), and a flexible ruler, respectively. Data analysis was conducted using the Shapiro-Wilk test, covariance analysis, and paired t-tests to compare the variables. The final results were confirmed using covariance analysis. Results: The findings demonstrated that yoga exercises in the experimental group led to a significant reduction in menstrual pain, menstrual distress, and the lumbar lordosis angle after the intervention (P ≤ 0.05). Conclusions: Based on the findings of the current research, yoga exercises, as a non-invasive method, significantly improved menstrual pain, menstrual distress, and the lumbar lordosis angle in the experimental group.

Investigating the Difference Between Thoracic Kyphosis and its Mobility in Community-Dwelling Older Men and Women

Introduction: The amount of thoracic kyphosis and its mobility may be affected by gender in older adults. This study investigates gender differences in thoracic kyphosis and thoracic spine mobility in healthy older adults. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 36 participants among which 21 were female and 15 were male with an age range of 65-80 years participated. The amount of thoracic spine kyphosis was measured in a relaxed standing position and the position of maximum correction of thoracic kyphosis using a flexible ruler between the spinous processes of T12 and C7. The difference between the thoracic kyphosis of the relaxed state and the condition of the maximum correction is used to determine the degree of thoracic spine mobility. Finally, men and women were compared in terms of thoracic kyphosis and thoracic spine mobility. The student t-test was employed to compare kyphosis and spinal mobility between men and women, and the paired student t-test was used to compare kyphosis angle in a relaxed posture and maximum kyphosis correction status. Meanwhile, the Pearson test was utilized to evaluate the relationship between variables. Results: Although there was no statistically significant difference in the mean thoracic kyphosis of relaxation (P=0.13) and maximal correction (P=0.18) status of healthy old men and women, there was a significant positive relationship between the rate of kyphosis angle and the amount of mobility of thoracic kyphosis (P=0.003; r=0.48). Conclusion: There is no difference in the degree of kyphosis and thoracic spine mobility in older men and women. In addition, people with more thoracic kyphosis had more spinal mobility.

The effect of different tensions/directions of I-shaped taping in combination with corrective exercise on postural kyphosis in adolescents.

Choosing appropriate complementary methods, such as exercise, along with taping methods may be effective in treating patients with kyphosis. The present study aimed to examine the effect of different tape tensions/directions combined with corrective exercises on the degree of postural kyphosis in adolescents. In this randomized controlled trial, 54 adolescents with postural kyphosis were assigned into three groups: No taping (control), I-shaped taping technique with 10% stretching force (Kinesiotape I), and I-shaped taping using facilitation technique with 40% stretching force (Kinesiotape II). Both groups in Kinesiotaping also received a V-shaped tape (10% stretching force). All participants received a similar comprehensive corrective exercise. Patients received the allocated interventions for 6 weeks and visited every two weeks at the clinic. Measurements were done using a flexible ruler, kyphometer, and photogrammetry. Between-group analyses revealed no significant differences between the study groups following the interventions (p> 0.05). However, the within-group analyses according to flexible ruler, Kyphometer, and Photogrammetry measurements indicated that exercise alone (control) [p= 0.011, p= 0.056, and p= 0.005, respectively], Kinesiotape I - exercise [p= 0.001, p= 0.002, p= 0.013, and respectively], as well as Kinesiotape II - exercise [p< 0.001, p< 0.001, and p< 0.001, respectively] significantly decreased the postural kyphosis degree except exercise alone using Kyphometer measurement. No adverse events were observed during the study. The findings of photogrammetry, flexible rulers, and photogrammetry similarly indicated that the corrective exercises with or without tape tension/directions significantly decreased the postural kyphosis degree in adolescents.

Investigating the relationship between sagittal spinal curvature and fall incidence and fall risk among elderly nursing home residents.

Poor balance is an underlying cause of falling in the elderly, for which a change in the natural curvature of the spine plays a major role. Little is known about the relationship between spinal curvatures and fall incidence in this population. We primarily aimed to investigate the relationship between sagittal plane spinal curvatures and fall incidence over 1year among nursing facility residents. Secondarily, we aim to determine associations of sagittal plane spinal curvatures with participants' perception of fall risk and balance capability. Participants (100 residents mean age 70.17 ± 6.01years) underwent standing measures of sagittal plane spinal curvatures (flexible ruler technique) and forward displacement of the head relative to the cervical spine. The Tinetti Performance Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA) and Fall Efficacy Scale assessed participants' perception of balance and fear of falling. Incident falls were self-reported monthly and tracked across 1year. Spearman's correlations and logistic regression evaluated associations between fall incidence and spinal curvature. Predictive performance of spinal curvature and fall risk was determined by the corresponding ROC for defining a cut-off for variables of spinal curvature and fall risk indicators. Predictive performance of spinal curvature and fall risk factors indicated 84% and 77% of participants were correctly classified using models of kyphosis and head angle, respectively. Our study adds new data on spinal curvatures and incident falls among nursing facility residents. Efforts are needed to intervene to counter progression of spinal curvatures and improve fall prevention practices.

The effect of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation on lumbar range of motion and lumbar fascia characteristics in healthy individuals

ObjectivesTo investigate the effect of Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) on lumbar fascia thickness, lumbar flexion angle, and lumbar curvature in healthy people. DesignRandomized, clinical trial. Subjects100 healthy individuals. InterventionsParticipants were randomized into the active TENS group (n = 50) and placebo TENS group (n = 50). Subjects received 10 sessions of TENS in the lumbar region for 2 weeks. Main measuresLumbar fascia thickness, lumbar flexion angle, and lumbar curvature examined by ultrasonography, flexible ruler, and spinal mouse three times (before and after the intervention sessions, and two weeks after the last intervention session-follow up) ResultsSubjects in the TENS group showed a significant reduction in lumbar fascia thickness (P ≤ 0.002), an increase in lumbar flexion angle (P = 0.000), and an increase in lumbar curvature angle (P = 0.000) before and after the intervention sessions. The results of the follow-up evaluations showed the stability of the changes in the mentioned variables. ConclusionThe improvements in the lumbar fascia thickness and lumbar flexibility suggest that TENS may be effective in healthy subjects. Data indicate that biomechanical properties of lumbar fascia and lumbar flexibility are directly linked, and other mechanisms could be more influential in contributing to improvement.

The Association Between Lumbar Lordosis and Functional Performance in Children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Purpose: The aims of this study were to compare the lumbar lordosis measured with flexible ruler between healthy peers and children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) and to investigate the relationship between lumbar lordosis and functional performance in children with DMD. Material and Methods: This study included 20 children with DMD (median age: 8.29 years) and 10 healthy peers (median age: 7.96 years). Lumbar lordosis and postural alignment were assessed with flexible ruler and New York Posture Rating (NYPR), succesively. Functional performance was evaluated with Motor Function Measure and timed performance tests. Results: Demographic characteristics of children with DMD and healthy peers were similar (p&gt;0.05). Children with DMD (median angle: 46.58 degrees) had a higher degree of lumbar lordosis than their healthy peers (median angle: 36.10 degrees) (p

Comparison of the effects of core stability and whole-body electromyostimulation exercises on lumbar lordosis angle and dynamic balance of sedentary people with hyperlordosis: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundHyperlordosis is an excessive inward curvature of the lumbar spine that affects spinal function. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of core stability exercises (CSE), Whole-Body Electromyostimulation (WB-EMS), and CSE Plus on the Lumbar lordosis angle and dynamic balance in sedentary people with hyperlordosis.MethodsIn a parallel randomized controlled trial study, seventy five untrained male adults with hyperlordosis, recruited from clinics of sports medicine and corrective exercise centers in Tehran, were randomly assigned to four groups: CSE (n = 19), WB-EMS (n = 18), CSE Plus (n = 18), and control Group (CG) (n = 20). The CSE group performed Core stability exercises, the WB-EMS group followed a Whole-body electromyostimulation combined training protocol, and the CSE Plus group engaged in a combined program protocol (CSE with the WB-EMS vest), and the control group only participated in activities of daily living. Anthropometric parameters and outcomes, including the lordosis angle and dynamic balance, were assessed before and after a six-week training program. A flexible ruler was used to measure the angle of lordosis, and the Y balance test was employed to evaluate the dynamic balance.ResultsThe results indicated that the lordosis angle improved in both the CSE and CSE Plus groups compared to the CG in the post-test (P = 0.017, P = 0.024). However, there were no significant differences observed between the other group pairs. Additionally, a significant difference in dynamic balance was found between the CSE Plus group and the CG in the post-test (P = 0.001), while no significant differences were observed between the other group pairs. Furthermore, within-group test results demonstrated that lumbar lordosis angle and dynamic balance variables significantly improved in the post-test compared to the pre-test stage (P < 0.05).ConclusionsThe two CSE and CSE Plus training protocols are effective as training methods for correcting certain parameters and physical deformities, including lumbar lordosis. Furthermore, the CSE Plus group demonstrated a positive impact on improving dynamic balance. Consequently, it is highly recommended that individuals with hyperlordosis can benefit from the exercises of the present study, especially CSE Plus exercises along with other rehabilitation exercises.Trial registrationThe trial was registered at Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR20221004011, registration date: 04/10/2022).

Comparison of the rounded shoulder, kyphosis postures, and glenohumeral range of motion in patients with primary and secondary frozen shoulder

BackgroundFrozen shoulder syndrome is a common pathological condition of the shoulder characterized by pain, capsular stiffness, and limited movement of the glenohumeral joint. Shoulder joint problems can be related to the posture of the shoulder girdle and position of the scapula. This study aimed to compare the rounded shoulder and kyphotic posture and shoulder range of motion in patients with primary and secondary frozen shoulders. MethodsFifty-five female patients with frozen shoulder, diagnosed by a physician, were divided into primary (n = 25) and secondary (n = 30) groups. Photography and Kinovea software were used to measure the rounded shoulder angle, a flexible ruler for the kyphosis angle, and a universal goniometer for shoulder range of motion. For data analysis, we utilized SPSS software. In order to compare the groups, independent t-test was used at a significance level of 0.05. ResultsThe results showed that the rounded shoulder (p = 0.001) and kyphosis (p = 0.002) angles were significantly greater in the primary group compared to the secondary group. There was no significant difference between the two groups for flexion (p = 0.874), abduction (p = 0.786), extension (p = 0.331), and internal rotation (p = 0.128) range of motion. However the external rotation range of motion in the primary group was significantly less (p = 0.028) compared to the secondary group. ConclusionsPeople with primary frozen shoulder are more likely to experience postural problems in the shoulder girdle and have a limited range of motion for external rotation compared to those with secondary frozen shoulder.

Eight-week exercise intervention improves shoulder pain and body posture of wheelchair athletes with spinal cord injury.

Wheelchair athletes, as a group of elite athletes who participate in high-level sports activities, are constantly exposed to musculoskeletal injuries and disorders due to their frequent use of wheelchairs and overworked upper limbs. In this study, we investigated the effect of elastic band exercises on the extent of athletes' forward head angle, kyphosis, rounded shoulder, and pain scores. Twenty-six male and female wheelchair athletes with spinal cord injuries (age: 27.11±6.67), active in table tennis, basketball and pétanque, were selected and randomly divided into either a control or training group. The Wheelchair User's Shoulder Pain Index (WUSPI) questionnaire was used to investigate the level of shoulder pain. A sagittal view photogrammetry method was used to measure the forward head angle and round shoulder angle, and a flexible ruler was used to measure the thoracic kyphosis angle. For our statistical analysis, a covariance test (ANCOVA) and independent and dependent T tests were used. After eight weeks of training, there was a significant decrease in the angle of the forward head tilt, kyphosis, round shoulder, and pain questionnaire scores in the training group (P<0.05). Changes in the forward head angle, rounded shoulder and kyphosis angle, and pain scores show the desirable effect of resistance training with an elastic band. Therefore, this exercise program is recommended for wheelchair athletes with spinal cord injuries.

Effect of Corrective Exercises on Posture, Upper Extremity Muscle Activity, and Shoulder Kinematics in Male Handball Players With Upper Cross Syndrome

Background and Aims Abnormal posture and alterations in movement and muscle activity patterns have been reported in people with upper cross syndrome (UCS). These changes can lead to imbalance in muscle activation, altered movement patterns, and biomechanical changes. The present study aims to investigate the effect of corrective exercises on posture, upper extremity muscle activity, and shoulder kinematics in male handball players with UCS. Methods This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 30 male handball players with UCS who were randomly divided into exercise (n=15) and control (n=15) groups. The variables including upper extremity muscle activation patterns, shoulder kinematics, forward head posture, forward shoulder posture, and kyphosis were evaluated before and after intervention. Should kinematics and activation patterns of upper extremity muscles (supraspinatus, lumbar erector spinae, upper trapezius, middle trapezius, latissimus dorsi, pectoralis major) were recorded using electromyography and motion analyzer. The angles of forward head and forward shoulder were assessed using photographic method taken from lateral view, and Kyphosis angle was measured using a flexible ruler before and after exercises. The exercise group performed the comprehensive corrective exercises for 8 weeks (3 sessions per week), but the control group did not receive any intervention. To analyze the data, two-way analysis of variance and Bonferroni test were used. The significant level was set at 0.05. Results Forward head posture (P=0.001), forward shoulder posture (P=0.003), and kyphosis (P=0.002) showed significant improvements in the exercise group compared to the control group from pretest to post-test phase. In the preparatory and throw phases (slow and fast throwing), higher activities of supraspinatus, lumbar erector spinae, upper trapezius, middle trapezius, latissimus dorsi, and pectoralis major were observed in the exercise group compared to the control group (P=0.05). Moreover, in the preparatory and throw phases, higher range of motion of shoulder flexion, forward flexion of shoulder, internal rotation of shoulder, external rotation of shoulder, and shoulder abduction were observed in the exercise group compared to the control group (P=0.05). Conclusion Corrective exercises can significantly alter shoulder kinematics and upper extremity muscle activity patterns in male handball players with UCS, which can be used in future studies to prevent UCS in handball players during throwing the ball.

Static alignment of the upper limb and performance of athletes with spinal cord injuries

In athletes with spinal cord injuries, due to relying on upper limbs and activities such as driving a wheelchair and repeating specific movement patterns, significant structural changes occur in their upper limbs. Those changes lead to muscle imbalance and disorders in the shoulder girdle and upper limb. Investigation of the relationship between forward head angle, round shoulder, and kyphosis with physical capabilities (power, range of motion, wheelchair propulsion and sitting balance) in wheelchair athletes. 15 male and 13 female wheelchair athletes with Spinal cord injury (age 27.64±7.24) in basketball, pétanque and table tennis were selected. The sagittal view photogrammetry method was used to measure the forward head angle and round shoulder angle. A flexible ruler was used to measure the thoracic kyphosis angle. Additionally, a medicine ball throw to measure power, a goniometer to estimate the range of motion, a 20-meter propulsion test to measure propulsion speed, and a sitting balance test to measure balance were used. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficient and stepwise multiple regression were applied to analyse the data at the 0.05 significance level. There was only a significant relationship between the round shoulder with the balance in three directions and throwing the ball. However, in other variables, there is no significant relationship with static alignment. Despite the slight difference in the investigated indicators in this study, it is important from a clinical point of view. For coaches, including the necessary preventive and corrective measures in athlete’s training programs is better.

Comparison of Commercially available denture teeth with available natural teeth dimensions among genders

Background: Selecting the artificial teeth is an art, every prosthodontist should learn the art to fulfill the esthetic and functional requirement of the patient. It gives a pleasing, expressive and confident life to the patient. Aim: To compare the dimensions of natural maxillary and mandibular anterior and posterior teeth with the dimensions of three commercially available denture teeth such as Acryrock,Biorock and Ivoclar Vivadent along with gender consideration. Materials and Methods: The length and width of the natural anterior and posterior teeth from dentate casts of 23 males and 77 females were examined by a single examiner using a digital vernier caliper on a straight line and using a flexible ruler . These dimensions were also measured in three denture teeth mold charts: Acryrock, Biorock, Ivoclar vivadent. The dimensions thus obtained are compared between the three systems of artificial teeth and natural teeth for selecting the best system of artificial teeth for complete denture prosthesis. Results: This present study concludes that the width of available natural maxillary anterior teeth matches with the dimensions of all the three commercially available denture teeth such as Ivoclar Vivadent, Acryrock, Biorock. But the mandibular anterior and posterior teeth of maxillary and mandibular dentate cast dimensions were matching only with the Ivoclar vivadent teeth set irrespective of the genders. Conclusion: From this study, the determination of the size of anterior and posterior artificial teeth using the natural teeth dimensions for fabrication of complete denture prosthesis was proved statistically and mathematically.

Comparison of the effects of core stability and whole-body electromyostimulation exercises on kyphosis angle and core muscle endurance of inactive people with hyper kyphosis: A quasi-experimental pre-post study

ObjectiveRestoring the degree of kyphosis to be consistent with good sagittal alignment of the spine is a key concern. This study aimed to compare the effect of core stability exercises (CSE) versus whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) and a combined program (PLUS) on kyphosis angle and core muscle endurance in sedentary individuals with hyperkyphosis. DesignA quasi-experimental single group pre-post study. SettingsLaboratory of corrective exercise. Participantsseventy-five untrained men (28.9 ± 5.3 years) with thoracic hyperkyphosis. Main outcome measuresA flexible ruler was used to measure the angle of kyphosis and McGill's test was used to evaluate core stability. ResultsThe results of the post hoc test demonstrated that the kyphosis angle was improved in the WB-EMS and PLUS groups compared to that in the CG (P < 0.05), but no significant difference was observed among the three groups(P > 0.05). In the post-test, core stability was significantly improved in CSE, WB-EMS and PLUS groups compared to that in the CG. ConclusionsThe WB-EMS and PLUS protocols as new training methods seem to be effective in changing posture parameters and correcting postural deformities, including kyphosis. Therefore, these protocols along with other rehabilitation programs can be used to correct kyphosis and improve core muscle endurance.

The association of hamstring tightness with lumbar lordosis and trunk flexibility in healthy individuals: gender analysis.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate if there is a relation between hamstring tightness and lumbar lordosis as well as trunk flexibility based on gender differences and to analyze the differences in hamstring tightness, lumber lordosis and trunk flexibility in healthy adults. Methods: One hundred young healthy adults were recruited and distributed into 2 equal groups according to gender: group A (female group) and group B (male group). Hamstring tightness (HT) was measured by Active Knee Extension (AKE) test and Straight Leg Raise (SLR) test, the angle of lumbar lordosis was measured with a flexible ruler from standing position and trunk flexion flexibility (TFF) was measured by Fingertip-to-Floor Test. Results: There was a significant correlation between TFF and both measures of HT (SLR, p = 0.001; AKE, p = 0.001) in females. While, there was a non-significant correlation in males (SLR, p = 0.900; AKE, p = 0.717). Moreover, there was a non-significant correlation between lumbar lordosis and HT measures in both groups as (p > 0.05). Furthermore, there were significant differences between males and females in hamstring flexibility, TFF and lumbar lordosis as (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Gender differences in the relationship between hamstring tightness and trunk flexion flexibility are significant. However, there was no significant difference between males and females in the relationship between hamstring tightness and lumbar lordosis.

Comparison of Vascular Complications after Arterial Sheath Removal using Manual Compression Method and ClampEase Method in Patients Undergoing Coronary Angiography.

Angiography stands as the paramount and definitive diagnostic method for coronary artery disease. However, akin to various other invasive procedures, it may carry a multitude of complications. This study sought to assess the incidence of vascular complications post-arterial sheath removal, comparing the use of a ClampEase device against manual compression. This quasi-experimental clinical trial involved patients undergoing angiography at the post-angiography ward in Isfahan, Iran. A total of 91 patients were selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to either the manual compression or ClampEase device groups. Monitoring common vascular complications like hemorrhage, hematomas, and ecchymosis occurred up to 24 hours post-arterial sheath removal. Data were collected using a digital scale model DM3, a transparent flexible ruler, and a questionnaire named 'vascular complications after angiography.' Analysis was performed using SPSS software version 13. Statistical analysis revealed that, when compared to the manual method, compression with the ClampEase device led to fewer vascular complications in patients and a quicker return to homeostasis. The findings underscore that the ClampEase method is a safer alternative with fewer vascular complications than the manual compression method. This discovery has implications for reducing hospital costs and length of stay. The ClampEase device is associated with a swifter time to hemostasis, contributing to enhanced patient comfort and acceptance.

The Correlation between Neck Pain and Disability, Forward Head Posture, and Hyperkyphosis with Opium Smoking: A Cross-Sectional Study from Iran.

Opium smoking has been a common practice in Iran for many years, with people often smoking for long hours. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an increase in opium smoking due to false beliefs about its protective effects against COVID-19 infection. In this study, we aimed to examine the association between the non-ergonomic positions associated with traditional opium smoking in Iran and the development of neck pain and disability, forward head posture (FHP), and hyperkyphosis (HK). In this cross-sectional, correlational study, a total of 120 individuals who smoked opium were selected based on the inclusion criteria. They were interviewed about their addiction profile using the Lite version of the Addiction Severity Index and the Leeds Dependence Questionnaire. The presence of neck pain and disability was also evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale and the Neck Disability Index. The participants were examined for FHP via side-view photography and for HK using a flexible ruler. Data were analyzed using correlation coefficient tests and stepwise linear regression analysis. Based on the results, homelessness, the lifetime duration of opium smoking (in months), the duration of daily opium smoking (in minutes), and the severity of drug dependence had significant relationships with the severity of neck pain, neck disability, FHP, and HK. Homelessness was the strongest predictor of neck pain and disability (R2 = 0.367, p < 0.001), FHP (R2 = 0.457, p < 0.001), and HK (R2 = 0.476, p < 0.001), followed by the lifetime duration of opium smoking and the duration of daily opium smoking, respectively, in which R2 increased to 0.505 (p = 0.011), 0.546 (p = 0.022), and 0.570 (p = 0.004) with the addition of two other variables. Overall, an increase in the duration of sitting in non-ergonomic positions could lead to neck pain and disability, FHP, and HK due to the non-neutral posture of opium smokers.

Association between Thoracic Kyphosis and Forward Head Posture in Teenagers: An Analytical Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Hyperkyphosis of the thoracic spine and forward head posture are common alterations in teenagers and cause diverse symptomatology, but their association still remains obscure. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the association between thoracic kyphosis and forward head posture in teenagers between 11 and 17 years of age. Methods: In this analytical cross-sectional study, 84 students between 11 and 17 participated. Those who suffered from previous traumatic injuries in the thoracic or cervical spine were excluded. A Stadler® flexible ruler and a SenseAid® bubble inclinometer were used to measure thoracic kyphosis. The measurement of forward head posture was conducted through the craniovertebral angle. An application denominated “Forward Head Posture©” was employed, and an ad hoc questionnaire was utilized. Information such as sex, age, and pain in the cervical and thoracic spine among the study population was collected from this questionnaire. Results: A positive correlation and a statistically significant association (P &lt; 0.05) were found between forward head posture and thoracic kyphosis. Age showed a significant association with forward head posture (a prevalence ratio (PR) = 1.15, P = 0.005), and students reporting backache had a lower prevalence of this forward head posture (aPR = 0.64, P = 0.025). Conclusions: There was a positive correlation and a statistically significant association between forward head posture and thoracic kyphosis in teenagers between 11 and 17 years of age.

Efeito de um programa de exercício utilizando Rédea Pessoa sobre preditores de condicionamento físico em cavalos adultos

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect the Pessoa training aid (PTA) exercise program exerts in some physical conditioning predictors. Eight detrained adult horses were evaluated in 12 sessions of work with PTA (3 sessions per week). All horses used a heart rate monitor and GPS (V800, Polar Electro) and data was used to calculate energy expenditure (EE), net cost of transport (COT), metabolic energy requirement (Pmet), oxygen pulse, oxygen utilization, heart rate and heart rate variability (HRV). The horses were weighted, and the thoracolumbar shape were measured at the level of the 18th (T18), 13th (T13) and 8th (T8) thoracic vertebrae with a flexible ruler before and after the experimental period. Data obtained weekly were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey test (p≤0.05). Data obtained just before and after the experimental period were submitted to paired t test. There was a decrease in left-right asymmetry. In the third week there was an increase in HR, EE, oxygen pulse and oxygen utilization followed by a decrease in the fourth week. The biomechanics related parameters, COT and Pmet decreased week by week. The HRV showed a sympathetic stimulus in the third week followed by a shift to parasympathetic in the fourth week. We conclude that 12 sessions of lunge exercise with PTA contributed to physical condition improvement.