General Exercise Research Articles

Effect of therapeutic exercises on the progression of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a protocol of a systematic review

IntroductionAdolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) affects an estimated 200 million adolescents globally and curvatures exceeding 30° at skeletal maturity are associated with increased health risks in adulthood. The International Society for...

Comparison of blood flow restriction training rehabilitation and general rehabilitation exercise after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Blood flow restriction training (BFRT) has been found to reduce quadriceps atrophy and weakness after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery. However, the clinical benefit of BFRT as compared to general rehabilitation exercise (GRE) alone remains uncertain. This study aimed to compare the effects of BFRT and GRE on ACL reconstruction rehabilitation through a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, Elsevier and Biosis were searched for randomized controlled trials comparing BFRT and GRE following ACL reconstruction. Primary outcomes included muscle strength (extensor and flexor muscle general strength), Lysholm score, the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, extensor muscle torque (peak torque and average torque) and muscle cross-sectional area (CSA). The secondary outcomes included a range of motion (ROM), pain, Y-balance and the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS). Thirteen randomized controlled trials involving 376 participants were included. The change in muscle strength (Mean difference, MD: 12.96, 95% confidence interval, [95% CI]: 7.02-18.91, heterogeneity, I2 = 39%), Lysholm score (MD: 9.41, 95% CI: 8.93-9.88, I2 = 40%) and IKDC score (MD: 9.88, 95% CI: 0.57-19.19, I2 = 87%) of the BFRT group were superior to that of the GRE group at the time of last follow-up. However, no significant difference was found between the BFRT and the GRE groups regarding the change in muscle CSA, ROM, extensor muscle torque, pain score, Y-balance and PROMIS. BFRT seems to perform better than GRE in terms of functional improvement and muscle strength following ACL reconstruction, but there seems to be no significant difference between them in terms of joint mobility, pain relief, stability improvement and patient's perception of their disease and treatment. Level II.

Combined exercise Intervention protocol validation in sedentary workers health risk with Nonspecific Chronic low back pain People

Background: Most chronic low back pain is nonspecific as the cause of the pain is unknown. Hence exercise protocol focussing on one area of fitness is not appropriate. A general exercise programme that combines muscular strength, flexibility and aerobic fitness would benefit the rehabilitation of Nonspecific Chronic Low Back Pain and its health risk. The present study aimed to validate the content of the combined exercise intervention protocol. Methods: The development and expert judgement stages are part of the content validation process. The development of the exercise protocol was based on a comprehensive literature review. The protocol was created in a step-by-step progressive manner. Exercises for flexibility (20 minutes), stabilisation and strengthening (20 minutes), and aerobic (20 minutes) make up the three main parts of the exercise protocol. 12 independent professionals with a minimum of 10 years of experience were invited. Ten of the twelve specialists consented to take part in the study. In India, all of the professionals were engaged in orthopaedic and musculoskeletal physical therapy. There are two professors, three associate professors, and five senior physiotherapists among the experts. Responses were gathered by mail. During the validation phase, The Exercise protocol was graded by the experts on relevance and ease of performance using a 5-point scale. After collecting the responses content validity index and kappa values were calculated. Results: 37 out of 39 items in the combined exercise intervention protocol showed good agreement. Treadmill walking with 60-75% and 80% and above target heart rate showed a kappa value of 0.66 for relevance and 0.50 for ease of performance. Conclusions: The designed exercise protocol exhibited good content validity.

Тhe relationship between the level development of motor qualities of female cadets and their performance results exercises with kettles

The article examines the relationship between sports results in exercises with kettlebells and the level of development of motor qualities and the formation of military-applied motor skills of female cadets of the kettlebell sports section of a higher military educational institution under martial law. Research methods: theoretical analysis and generalization of literary sources, pedagogical observation, pedagogical testing, methods of mathematical statistics. It was established that the majority of strength exercises and exercises that require the manifestation of endurance have a close and moderately significant relationship (p<0?01) with high results of female cadets in competitive kettlebell exercises, namely: pull-ups on a low bar, squats with barbell, barbell deadlift, hanging on the crossbar, complex strength exercise, 1 and 2 km run, jumping out in 1 min. Also, a close and average statistically significant relationship (p<0.01-0.05) was found between the high level of formation of military applied motor skills of female cadets and all exercises with weights (p<0,01-0,05) (general control exercise on the obstacle course, throwing a grenade range and 5 km dash march). The results of the study allow us to state that the use of exercises with kettlebells in the process of physical education under martial law conditions will ensure the effective development of motor qualities, the formation of military-applied motor skills in order to ensure the physical readiness of female cadets of higher military educational institutions for educational and future military-professional and combat activity.

Validation of the Arabic Version of the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities Scale Among Type 2 Diabetes Patients in Saudi Arabia.

The Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities (SDSCA) scale is an extensively used instrument for assessing self-care behaviors in diabetic patients. This study aimed to validate the Arabic version of the SDSCA scale in type 2 diabetes to ensure its reliability and applicability in an Arabic-speaking population. A longitudinal study design was implemented, and initially, 239 participants were selected. The English version of the SDSCA scale was translated by experts using forward and backward translation, and the final version was approved by six expert panels. The final Arabic version was distributed among the type 2 diabetes patients. Psychometric evaluation was performed by the assessment of internal consistency using Cronbach's alpha, while test-retest reliability was examined using interclass correlation coefficients and exploratory factor analysis. From 239 participants, 102 were type 2 diabetic patients. Overall, Cronbach's alpha was 0.72, with the minimum in specific diet (-0.10), while the highest was 0.93 in general diet and blood sugar testing. Meanwhile, moderate to good inter-item and item-to-scale correlations were observed. According to factor analysis, items 1, 2, and 3 loaded heavily on the first dimension; 7 and 8 on the second; 5 and 6 on the third; and 9 and 10 on the fourth item; however, item 4 showed a low factor loading of 0.37 on the third dimension, indicating that this item may not correlate well. The second phase of the factor analysis, except items 3 and 4, exhibits a strong factor structure and captures differences in self-monitoring activity. This strengthens the scale's validity and reliability as a measurement tool. Overall, test-retest reliability demonstrates the robust reliability of diet (general), exercise, and blood sugar. The Arabic version of the SDSCA scale is a reliable and valid tool for assessing self-care activities in type 2 diabetes patients in Saudi Arabia, especially in general diet, exercise, and blood sugar testing; however, additional modifications are required to increase the reliability of specific diet domains. This validated scale can be successfully used in clinical and research settings to monitor and enhance the self-care behaviors of Arabic-speaking diabetic patients.

Individualized Versus General Exercise Therapy in People With Subacromial Pain Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of individualized exercises based on movement fault (MF) control on pain intensity and disability in subjects with chronic subacromial pain syndrome (SAPS). DesignRandomized Controlled Trial (IRCT20221126056621N1) SettingRehabilitation clinics ParticipantsThirty-eight participants with chronic SAPS (aged 52.23(8.47), 60 %woman). InterventionsThe participants were randomly allocated to one of the intervention groups (individualized exercises based on MFs control test designed to target specific movement faults) or the control group (commonly prescribed general scapular stabilization exercises). Both groups received exercise sessions twice a week for four weeks. Main Outcome MeasuresThe primary outcome measures were pain intensity at rest (PR) and during arm raising (PAR) using a visual analog scale. Disability was assessed as a key secondary outcome, including the disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) questionnaire and the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI). ResultsFollowing completion of all exercise sessions, PAR was significantly lower in the intervention group compared to the control group (mean [CI]: 9.17 [0.31 to 18.03], p=0.04), with a large effect size [0.68]. The reduction of PAR remained significantly lower in the intervention group than in the control group after four months of follow-up (mean [CI]: 18.29 [9.09 to 27.48], p=0.00) with a large effect size [1.27]. Disability significantly decreased at two month (mean=14.58, p=0.002 on SPADI index; mean=10.26, p=0.006 on DASH index) and four month (mean=19.85, p=0.00 on SPADI index; mean=12.09, p=0.001 on DASH index) follow ups in the intervention group compared to the control group. ConclusionIndividualized exercises based on MFs control of the shoulder region was accompanied by decreased PAR and disability in subjects with SAPS.

Порівняльний аналіз викладання шкільної гімнастики в Україні в другій половині ХІХ – на початку XX ст

Topicality. The formation of healthy youth capable of military service was an important direction of the state policy of the Russian and Austro-Hungarian empires, starting from the second half of the 19th century. The study of this process allows a better understanding of the mechanism of integration of physical culture into the educational systems of that time. The Purpose and Methods of the research are to determine the common features and specific features in the introduction of physical education into the educational programs of both empires; to achieve this goal, the analysis and generalization of scientific literature and normative- legal documents, the comparative-historical method were applied. Results of Work and Main Conclusions. The study showed that despite the similarity of goals, there were significant differences in the implementation of the process of introducing gymnastics into the school education system. In Austria-Hungary, gymnastics acquired the status of a compulsory discipline earlier than in the Russian Empire. The centralized educational system of the Russian Empire limited local initiatives, while the federal system of Austria-Hungary allowed regional bodies such as the Regional School Councils in Galicia and Bukovina, the government of the Kingdom of Hungary, to carry out their own legislative initiatives in education. Gymnastics classes were held once or twice a week and included general development and structural exercises, exercises on projectiles, as well as sports and movement games. Gymnastics was performed according to the Swedish and Sokol methods. Due to a lack of facilities and equipment, teachers in both empires were forced to adapt their curricula by increasing the number of exercises without the use of sports equipment, and classes were often held outdoors or indoors, depending on the season. Despite significant government efforts, both empires faced similar problems: a lack of qualified teachers, insufficient financial support, and low school attendance, especially in rural areas, which negatively affected the quality of education.

Effects of three-dimensional quality assessment nursing intervention on efficacy and disease management of patients undergoing esophageal cancer surgery.

Esophageal cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors. The three-dimensional quality structure model is a quality assessment theory that includes three dimensions: Structure, process, and results. To investigate the effects of nursing interventions with three-dimensional quality assessment on the efficacy and disease management ability of patients undergoing esophageal cancer surgery. In this prospective study, the control group received routine nursing, and the intervention group additionally received a three-dimensional quality assessment intervention based on the above routine care. Self-efficacy and patient disease management abilities were evaluated using the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) and Exercise of Self-Care Agency scale, respectively. IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 17.0, was used for the data processing. This study recruited 112 patients who were assigned to the control and experimental groups (n = 56 per group). Before the intervention, there was no significant difference in GSES scores between the two groups (P > 0.05). After the intervention, the GSES scores of both groups increased, with the experimental group showing higher values (P < 0.05). At the time of discharge and three months after discharge, the scores for positive attitudes, self-stress reduction, and total score of health promotion in the experimental group were higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05). The implementation of a three-dimensional quality structure model for postoperative patients with esophageal cancer can effectively improve their self-management ability and self-efficacy of postoperative patients.

Can general exercise training and pelvic floor muscle training be used as an empowering tool among women with endometriosis? Experiences among women with endometriosis participating in the intervention group of a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundThe potential benefit of exercise in alleviating symptoms of endometriosis is unclear. Still, exercise may be used to empower women and manage disease symptoms. The purpose of this study was to explore how regular supervised group- and individual exercise training, including pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT), is experienced among women with endometriosis after participating in a randomized controlled trial (RCT).MethodsAmong 41 women randomized to exercise training for four months, ten women were interviewed about their experiences with exercise training after participation in the trial. The weekly group training was led by women’s health physiotherapists and included individualized and progressive muscular strength training of large muscle groups and the pelvic floor muscles, in addition to endurance-, flexibility, and relaxation training. An individual training program followed the same principles as the group training and was to be performed 3–5 times per week, depending on the level of intensity. PFMT was recommended daily. The women also received a group pain management course emphasizing exercise training as self-management. Using inductive reflexive thematic analysis, responses to the question “Did participation in the study change your view of exercise as part of the treatment for endometriosis?“ were analyzed.ResultsThe women brought forward the importance of knowledge about the benefits of exercise to make informed decisions in disease management. Further, the women described how exercise training was perceived as less frightening and manageable when exposed to various intensities, dosages, and types of exercises in a safe and supportive environment. PFMT was especially brought forward as something new and appreciated, and for some of the women, to be performed on days when their bodies could not handle the general exercise training. They also expressed that the supervised exercise brought an extra dimension of belonging through group participation.ConclusionsIndividualization and regular supervision seem important to empower women with knowledge about exercise training as self-management and to experience exercise training as safe and non-threatening. Further, creating a sense of belonging through group training may improve social support and build active coping strategies that are essential for disease management of endometriosis.Trial registrationNCT05091268 (registered 23.09.2021).

Implementing changing behaviour towards aerobic and strength exercise: Results of a randomised, phase I study determining the safety, feasibility, and consumer-evaluation of an online exercise program in persons with multiple sclerosis

BackgroundMany people with MS do not meet the recommended exercise regime to elicit health benefits. This study aimed to determine the feasibility, safety, acceptability, and appropriateness of an exercise intervention delivered online to persons with MS that meets current exercise recommendations and behaviour change principles. MethodsSeventy-two participants (age: 43.3 ± 13.3 years) with mild to moderate MS were stratified according to previous exercise behaviour and block-randomised into one of three groups: Control (CON; n = 24), General Exercise (GE; n = 24) who at screening did not meet current exercise recommendations, and Advanced Exercise, (AE; n = 24) who at screening met the current exercise recommendations. GE and AE groups received a four-month online-supervised, behaviour change theory-based exercise program and were assessed at baseline, four-months, five-months, and eleven-months for physical activity participation. The feasibility of process, resources, management, and scientific outcomes was assessed. ResultsOf 198 potential participants, 143 met the eligibility criteria (72 %), and 72 were randomised. Fifty-three participants completed the intervention (74 % immediate retention), and 44 were retained at the six-month follow-up (61 %). Personnel time was 369 h, and total per-participant cost was Au$1036.20. Adherence rate to ≥70 % of exercise sessions was 73 % (GE) and 38 % (AE). The GE group observed a small magnitude of improvement in physical activity (d = −0.23). ConclusionsAn online exercise program embedded with behaviour interventions for either GE or AE appears feasible, acceptable, appropriate and safe and may show long-term efficacy in increased exercise behaviours for persons with mild to moderate MS.Trial registration: ANZCRT number ACTRN12619000228189p.

Exercise for patients with arthritis

Background: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are major causes of pain and disability globally, and exercise is known to be effective at alleviating symptoms and improving physical function.Current Concepts: Knee osteoarthritis is a common degenerative disease, and comprehensive clinical practice guidelines have been established. Most studies strongly recommend appropriate weight management combined with exercise therapy. Aerobic, strength, resistance, isometric, neuromuscular, and balance training have been used. However, the current evidence is insufficient to recommend specific prescriptions regarding the exercise type and dose. Many guidelines group knee and hip osteoarthritis together for exercise recommendations. Evidence supporting the use of exercise for hand osteoarthritis is relatively scarce, and reports on its adverse effects are rare. Weight loss is not recommended for hand osteoarthritis, because its effectiveness has not yet been established. For patients with polyarticular osteoarthritis, exercise is recommended as a core treatment, with systematic land-based exercises being particularly advised. For rheumatoid arthritis, both general exercises and hydrotherapy are recommended to improve joint flexibility, muscle strength, and functional outcomes.Discussion and Conclusion: Exercise is a powerful treatment tool for various types of arthritis. However, further research is required to develop more specific exercise intervention protocols.

Physical Exercise Prevents the Cognitive Decline among Older Adults in Romania.

Cognitive decline is one of the most important challenges related to the aging process, due to its important impact on individuals. Several studies have reported that physical exercise with a specific intensity and frequency is beneficial for maintaining cognitive health in the ageing population. The present study investigated the impact of general physical exercise on cognitive health in the older population in Romania. The study involved 60 individuals (60% male, 40% female), with a mean age of 60.78 years (SD = 2.97). The Health Interview Survey and The Minnesota Heart Survey assessed exercise frequency and intensity, while the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) determined mild cognitive impairment (MCI) levels. The results of the statistical analysis showed that high-intensity physical exercise at a frequency of three to four times a week at the age of 40-50 years is recommended in order to significantly reduce cognitive decline. In addition, for the age of 60 years old, the results established that engaging in physical activities of a moderate intensity with a frequency of 2-3 times per month is sufficient to maintain healthy cognition. The findings suggest that exercise can serve as a behavioral intervention to mitigate cognitive dysfunction and complement past research on its cognitive health advantages.

Attitudes and Beliefs Toward Non-Specific Neck Pain Among Physiotherapists in Jordan: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Physiotherapists' attitudes and beliefs play a crucial role in the management and treatment outcomes of non-specific neck pain (NSNP). To investigate the attitudes and beliefs of physiotherapists in Jordan towards NSNP, and to identify factors influencing these attitudes and beliefs. A Cross-sectional survey of registered physiotherapists working in Jordan was conducted. A structured questionnaire was used to assess the attitudes and beliefs of physiotherapists towards NSNP. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used. A total of 301 PTs completed the survey, 155 females (51.56%). Most respondents held bachelor's degrees, with an average of 9.5±6.6 experience years. The total score for PABS-PT (Z=11.4, p<0.001) and its BM (Z=+11.9, p<0.001) and PS (Z=3.6, p<0. 001) subscales were significantly positive. The score of the biomedical subscale was more significantly positive than psychosocial subscale. The treatment orientation was positively correlated with education level, and negatively with age and experience. The most reported treatments were manual therapy followed by general exercises and electrical modalities. No significant relationship was observed between treatment orientation and treatment selection. This study created the initial profile for pain attitudes and beliefs in Jordan. Physiotherapists hold positive attitudes and beliefs towards the NSNP treatment orientations with a superiority of the BM approach. Engaging educational sectors and stakeholders in the current situation of PTs' attitudes and beliefs is important.

텍스트마이닝을 활용한 대학 교양체육의 연구동향 및 발전방향 모색

This study examines the research trends in university general physical education from 2010 to 2024 through text mining analysis and provides foundational data for exploring the development directions of general physical education. Data collection was conducted from KCI and RISS, and after excluding papers unrelated to this study, a total of 579 papers were analyzed. Data analysis was conducted using frequency, TF-IDF, LDA, and LDAvis. The results of the study are as follows. First, the core keywords of general physical education research appeared in the following order: general physical education, participation, university, university students, class, class satisfaction, professor, motivation, exercise continuation, perception and self-efficacy, satisfaction, fun factors, female students, experience, psychological, sports, health, leisure satisfaction, and achievement orientation. Second, the TF-IDF words overlapped with the core keywords, but there were differences in the order of importance. Third, the LDA topic modeling analysis derived six topics, and through each topic, activation plans for general physical education were suggested.

Teaching Competence and Strategies of Table Tennis Teachers and their Impact on Students’ Sports Performance: Basis for Enhanced Teaching Strategies Plan

This study assessed the teaching competence and strategies employed by table tennis teachers and their impact on students' sports performance. The data were gathered through questionnaires designed by the researcher. The data from teachers obtained through a questionnaire were analyzed statistically. The overall findings were used to propose an enhanced teaching competence plan for the sports performance of table tennis students. This quantitative study used correlational and analytical methods. The study used questionnaires to gather information from students and teachers, which will be analyzed statistically. Furthermore, the study included three main variables: the independent variables were teaching skills and strategies of instructors; while the dependent variable was the sports performance of students. These variables were examined for their relationships. This study ensured ethicality and proper research protocols through expert reviews and approval. It was conducted in Tianjin Chengjian University among a total of 100 students and 11 teachers. Based on the study findings, while communicative competence is the strongest teaching skill among table tennis teachers, overall neutral ratings emphasize the need for growth in creativity and innovation to better engage students and adapt to changing educational demands. Cooperative learning is preferred by both teachers and students over traditional lecture and theoretical learning. This shows how important it is to innovate and involve students in the learning process. Both teachers and students evaluated table tennis performance similarly, indicating a general neutral assessment and the need for improvement in all performance areas. Table tennis teachers need to enhance their use of theoretical instruction, incorporating practical application, to optimize sports performance and holistic development in students. Despite the provision of generic exercises, assessment indicates that table tennis students need specific stretches and exercises to enhance their mobility and flexibility.

Students’ gratitude and engagement in online learning: An experimental study

Engagement is essential in education, particularly in online learning. Many studies have been done to determine various antecedents of student engagement. However, more evidence-based experimental research is still needed to improve student engagement during online learning. This study aims to examine the effect of a gratitude intervention on student engagement in online learning. This study uses an experimental research design with a pre-and post-test control group design. Two online questionnaires were used in this study, a gratitude adjective checklist (GAC) and an online student engagement scale (OSES) which were administered to 47 undergraduate students. The participants were classified randomly into three conditions. In the first group, 20 students had a general gratitude exercise (experimental Group 1). In the second group, 15 students had an Islamic gratitude task (experimental Group 2). The last group consisted of 12 students without any gratitude tasks as a control group. The data were analyzed with Anova repeated measurements based on the pre- and post-test control group design. Results showed no interaction between different types of treatment and increased online engagement. However, it was found that the general gratitude treatment had the most significant effects compared to other treatments. This research proves that students can increase student engagement through the habit of being grateful daily including by writing down what things make them grateful.

The Effect Of General Exercise Program Combined With Cognitive Functional Therapy On Pain, Quality Of Life And Muscle Endurance Of Women With Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain

The Effect Of General Exercise Program Combined With Cognitive Functional Therapy On Pain, Quality Of Life And Muscle Endurance Of Women With Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain

Structural equation model analysis of the effect of visceral fat on osteoporosis

BackgroundOsteoporosis is a considerable public health challenge in Moyu County, Xinjiang. Here, we evaluated the influencing factors of osteoporosis in this region.MethodsWe recruited 7,761 participants and randomized them into normal and osteoporotic populations based on T-score. The effects of general conditions, body composition, calcium sources and exercise, respiratory exposure, and daily diet on osteoporosis were analyzed. Furthermore, a structural equation model was constructed to uncover the direct and indirect influencing factors of osteoporosis.ResultsAmong the participants, 1,803 (23.23%) had normal bone mass while 1,496 (19.28%) had osteoporosis. The univariate analysis showed significant differences in the general conditions, body composition, calcium sources and exercise, respiratory exposure, and daily diet. Stratification based on age (45 years) and body mass index (BMI) (18.5 kg/m2) showed variations in the body composition between the two groups; however, the visceral fat differed significantly. Logistic regression analysis affirmed the association of visceral fat index as it was included in all equations, except for age and female menopause. The structural equation exhibited that the general conditions, body composition, and, calcium sources, and exercise were direct factors of osteoporosis, while respiratory exposure and daily diet were indirect factors. The standardized path coefficient was highest in general conditions, followed by body composition, and lastly, calcium sources and exercise.ConclusionObesity, besides age and female menopause, is also an influencing factor of osteoporosis. The visceral fat index plays a vital role in osteoporosis. Our findings may provide experimental evidence for early prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.

AWARENESS OF CARDIOPULMONARY FITNESS: A SURVEY AMONG FINAL YEAR PHYSIOTHERAPY STUDENTS IN KARACHI

Background of the Study: Cardiopulmonary fitness is a major component of healthy life and it is a fundamental component of physical and psychological wellness. Healthy persons can raise their metabolic rate markedly producing the energy required for continuous exercises. CPF exercises assist the body development more effectively and well-enhanced to handle ADLs and tasks. It also reduces the possibility of several chronic diseases. This study aims to evaluate awareness and knowledge of cardiopulmonary fitness among physical therapy students in Karachi. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted at physiotherapy institutes. A sample of 230 was selected via a non- probability purposive sampling technique. Data was collected using a self-designed questionnaire derived from literature, for its validity pilot testing was done prior to the survey. Consent was taken after explaining the study’s aims and objectives. Participants were asked to fill out the questionnaire. Results: The majority of the students (66.9%) had fair awareness of cardiopulmonary fitness, only 12.6% were well aware of CPF. 82.6% and 80.4% of students knew about the CPF exercise’s nature and mode respectively. Regarding the frequency and duration of CPF exercises only 24.3% and 31.3% of students respectively, knew accurately and only 32% knew how CPF exercises differ from general exercises. Only 27% of students knew about the muscle fiber type used in CPF exercises. 82.2% of participants were aware of the energy consumption mechanism used in CPF exercises. Conclusion: The outcome of this study shows that there is a lack of cardiopulmonary fitness awareness and inconsistency in related knowledge Majority of the students were not well aware of cardiopulmonary fitness among physiotherapy students.

The efficacy of core stability exercises versus conventional physiotherapy in lower back pain

Context: Practice guidelines recommend various types of general exercise and core stability exercises with electrotherapeutic modalities for chronic back pain but it remains the primary cause of absenteeism and disability. Chronic low back pain causes activity limitation in persons younger than 45 years. Core stability exercise is becoming increasingly popular for low back pain. Aims: To find out the effectiveness of core stability exercises on Pain and Disability in patients with chronic low back pain Settings and Design: A comparative study was done in the Physiotherapy OPD of Mahatma Gandhi Medical College &amp; Hospital Jaipur. Methods and Material: 40 subjects suffering from low back pain as per the inclusion and exclusion criteria were enrolled. The subjects were divided into two Group A (core stability) and Group B (General exercises). Before the treatment session, the pain and disability of the patients in each group were assessed with the help of the VAS scale and ODI scale respectively. After 15 days they were again assessed and the improvement levels were calculated. Statistical analysis used: Paired t-test was used to analyze significant changes between pre-test &amp; post-test measurements. Results: Statistical analysis made with the quantitative data revealed a statistically significant difference between the Core stability group &amp; General exercises group on pain &amp; disability level. Group A (core stability) improved in VAS and ODI compared to Group B (General exercises) with P values of 0.018 and 0.021 respectively. Conclusions: The findings reveal that core stability exercises are more effective than General exercises in chronic low back pain patients.