Limited Mobility Research Articles

The relationship of limited mobility of the cervical spinewith postural and mental reactions of students

Introduction: Previous studies have found that, in addition to the general factors for the occurrence of pain and reduced mobility of the cervical spine, the use of electronic devices promotes these, the excessive use of which can also lead to the occurrence of depressive symptoms in students. The aim of this study was to determine the mobility limitation of the cervical spine in students with reported neck pain, to determine the degree of disability and depression due to neck pain, to determine the correlation of mobility limitation of the cervical spine with the degree of disability and depression of students, and to determine the correlation of the degree of disability with the degree of depression. Methods: The research was conducted as a cross-sectional study from May to July 2021 at the University of Zenica in four faculties. The study used the General Questionnaire and two standardized questionnaires to assess disability due to neck pain (Index of Disability due to Neck Pain) and the degree of depression (patient health questionnaire). Results: A total of 147 students with reported neck pain participated in the study. A limitation of mobility was found in 30.6% of the students in flexion, 25.2% in rotation, 23.8% in lateral flexion, and 20.4% on extension. Mild disability due to neck pain was found in 58.5% of students, moderate in 23.8%, and severe in 2.7%. 45.6% of the students had mild depression, 18.4% had moderate depression, and 5.4% had severe depression.Conclusion: Restricted flexion and rotation are more common than restricted lateral flexion and extension of the cervical spine. About half of the students who reported neck pain had a mild degree of disability and mild depression. A strong positive correlation was found between the degree of disability and depression in students with neck pain.

A composite gel formed by konjac glucomannan together with Nano-CF obtained by FeCl3-citric acid hydrolysis as a potential fat substitute

This study aims to fabricate composite gels using nano citrus fiber (Nano-CF) derived from the hydrolysis process of citric acid (CA) with FeCl3, with a simultaneous exploration of its potential as an substitute to fats. Investigation of varying FeCl3 concentrations (0.01 to 0.03 mmol/g of CA) revealed a significant enhancement in the water-holding and oil-retention capacity of the Nano-CF. The meticulous synthesis of the composite gels involved integrating nano citrus fibers with konjac glucomannan (KGM) through high-speed shearing, followed by a comprehensive evaluation of its microstructure and physicochemical attributes. Increasing the Nano-CF concentration within the gels led to a synergistic interaction with KGM, resulting in enhanced viscosity, improved thermal stability, and restricted water molecule mobility within the system. The gels initially displayed reduced firmness, resilience, and adhesive characteristics, followed by subsequent improvement. When the ratio of Nano-CF to KGM was 0.5:1, the composite gels exhibited texture parameters, viscosity, and viscoelastic stability comparable to whipped animal cream formulations. These findings provide a new idea for the application of Nano-CF/KGM composite gels in whipped cream.

Experiences of family caregivers in dealing with cases of advanced breast cancer: a qualitative study of the sociocultural context in Punjab, Pakistan

BackgroundPatients with advanced breast cancer require consistent help and support from family caregivers. These caregivers often endure financial burdens and psychological stress, with their experiences significantly influenced by sociocultural factors. This study aims to explore the experiences of family caregivers of advanced breast cancer patients in Punjab province, Pakistan.MethodsData was collected through in-depth interviews with fifteen family caregivers of advanced breast cancer patients in three major cities of Punjab, Pakistan. Caregivers, who had been in close contact with the patient for the last two years, were purposively sampled from five major hospitals. The data was analyzed using thematic analysis.ResultsThe study revealed that the experiences of family caregivers are deeply rooted in the sociocultural context. Key themes identified include social responsibility and cultural reciprocity norms; limited awareness and mobility options for caregivers; financial responsibility and strain; impacts of beauty myths and shyness on caregiving attitudes and decisions; the stressful and emotional nature of caregiving; treatment perspectives influenced by social groups; challenges in consulting male physicians and associated stigma; the role of religious beliefs in caregiving; and stress management, with religion often being a coping mechanism. These factors can contribute to delayed treatment decisions for patients.ConclusionsFamily caregivers are crucial in facilitating timely treatment decisions for advanced breast cancer patients in the Pakistani context. To minimize treatment delays and alleviate caregiver stress, addressing sociocultural barriers in care-seeking is essential. A tailored approach, considering sociocultural and religious factors, is imperative for the management and early diagnosis of breast cancer, necessitating appropriate policymaking and implementation.

Spaces of Colonial Oppressions: Palestinians’ Bodily Experiences of Checkpoints

This article explores how bodily living and experiencing life as colonized subjects affects the perception of space and time. It argues that the Zionist settler-colonial trinity of control (checkpoints, ID cards, and permits) are not mere physical barriers of separation or restriction of movement and mobility. They are also a direct mechanism of colonial power that articulates how oppressive spaces are lived and consequently form the colonized perception of being-in-the-world. Based on two years of ethnographic study at Qalandia checkpoint between 2015 and 2017, the article adopts a phenomenological anthropological lens and focuses on two moments of bodily experiences related to passing the checkpoint: First, the bodily experience before reaching the checkpoint; and second, the bodily experience when crossing the checkpoint.

Sorafenib inhibits ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament by blocking LOXL2-mediated vascularization

Ossification of the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament (OPLL) is a degenerative hyperostosis disease characterized by the transformation of the soft and elastic vertebral ligament into bone, resulting in limited spinal mobility and nerve compression. Employing both bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing, we elucidate the molecular characteristics, cellular components, and their evolution during the OPLL process at a single-cell resolution, and validate these findings in clinical samples. This study also uncovers the capability of ligament stem cells to exhibit endothelial cell-like phenotypes in vitro and in vivo. Notably, our study identifies LOXL2 as a key regulator in this process. Through gain-and loss-of-function studies, we elucidate the role of LOXL2 in the endothelial-like differentiation of ligament cells. It acts via the HIF1A pathway, promoting the secretion of downstream VEGFA and PDGF-BB. This function is not related to the enzymatic activity of LOXL2. Furthermore, we identify sorafenib, a broad-spectrum tyrosine kinase inhibitor, as an effective suppressor of LOXL2-mediated vascular morphogenesis. By disrupting the coupling between vascularization and osteogenesis, sorafenib demonstrates significant inhibition of OPLL progression in both BMP-induced and enpp1 deficiency-induced animal models while having no discernible effect on normal bone mass. These findings underscore the potential of sorafenib as a therapeutic intervention for OPLL.

The role of financial constraints in firm transition—Evidence from Indian manufacturing

AbstractIn developing countries' manufacturing, the prevalence of small firms poses a conundrum, as few successfully transition to larger categories. Scholarly attention to the reasons behind this limited upward mobility remains scarce. This study, focusing on Indian manufacturing, explores the role of limited financial access as a significant obstacle hindering small firms' transition. Analysing data spanning 2001–2016, encompassing both formal and informal firms, we find robust evidence that access to finance is crucial for small firm transition in Indian manufacturing. The findings are robust to alternate specifications and methods, and also to concerns arising from reverse causality.

Self-Reported Disability Type and Risk of Alcohol-Induced Death – A Longitudinal Study Using Nationally Representative Data

Background Disability is associated with alcohol misuse and drug overdose death, however, its association with alcohol-induced death remains understudied. Objective To quantify the risk of alcohol-induced death among adults with different types of disabilities in a nationally representative longitudinal sample of US adults. Methods Persons with disabilities were identified among participants ages 18 or older in the Mortality Disparities in American Communities (MDAC) study (n = 3,324,000). Baseline data were collected in 2008 and mortality outcomes were ascertained through 2019 using the National Death Index. Adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated for the association between disability type and alcohol-induced death, controlling for demographic and socioeconomic covariates. Results During a maximum of 12 years of follow-up, 4000 alcohol-induced deaths occurred in the study population. In descending order, the following disability types displayed the greatest risk of alcohol-induced death (compared to adults without disability): complex activity limitation (aHR = 1.7; 95% CI = 1.3–2.3), vision limitation (aHR = 1.6; 95% CI = 1.2–2.0), mobility limitation (aHR = 1.4; 95% CI = 1.3–1.7), ≥2 limitations (aHR = 1.4; 95% CI = 1.3–1.6), cognitive limitation (aHR = 1.2; 95% CI = 1.0–1.4), and hearing limitation (aHR = 1.0; 95% CI = 0.9–1.3). Conclusions The risk of alcohol-induced death varies considerably by disability type. Efforts to prevent alcohol-induced deaths should be tailored to meet the needs of the highest-risk groups, including adults with complex activity (i.e., activities of daily living – “ALDs”), vision, mobility, and ≥2 limitations. Early diagnosis and treatment of alcohol use disorder within these populations, and improved access to educational and occupational opportunities, should be considered as prevention strategies for alcohol-induced deaths.

Clinical study on treatment of cervical spondylotic radiculopathy (Qi stagnation and blood stasis syndrome) with Gao's nape needle and Shentong Zhuyu decoction.

Cervical spondylotic radiculopathy is currently one of the common orthopedic diseases, mainly characterized by neck pain, stiffness, limited mobility, and related symptoms of nerve root compression, which seriously troubles people's work and life. Ninety cases of cervical spondylotic radiculopathy (Qi stagnation and blood stasis syndrome) were randomly divided into treatment group and control group, 45 cases in each group. The control group was treated with western medicine (nerve nutrition, pain relief, and circulation improvement drugs), and the treatment group was treated with Gao's nape needle combined with modified Shentong Zhuyu decoction on the basis of the control group. Before and after 2 weeks, TCM syndrome score, TCM curative effect, visual analogue scale score, numbness score, neck disability index score, related serum inflammatory factors (interleukin-10 [IL-10], interleukin-6 [IL-6], tumor necrosis factor-α [TNF-α]), related hemorheological indexes (plasma viscosity, high shear whole blood viscosity, low shear whole blood viscosity level) were used as evaluation indexes to evaluate the effect. After treatment, the total effective rate of the treatment group was 91.11%, which was better than that of the control group (78.78%), and the TCM syndrome scores of the 2 groups were decreased, the treatment group was better than that of the control group, and the differences were statistically significant (P < .05). After treatment, the visual analogue scale score, numbness score, and neck disability index score were decreased in both groups, and the decrease in the treatment group was more significant than that in the control group, and the differences were statistically significant (P < .05). After treatment, the related serum inflammatory factors (IL-10, IL-6, TNF-α) and related hemorheological indexes (plasma viscosity, high-shear whole blood viscosity, low-shear whole blood viscosity) were decreased in both groups, and the decrease in the treatment group was more significant than that in the control group, and the differences were statistically significant (P < .05). The treatment of cervical spondylotic radiculopathy (Qi stagnation and blood stasis syndrome) with Gao's nape needle and modified Shentong Zhuyu decoction can improve the curative effect of traditional Chinese medicine, improve the related discomfort symptoms (neck tenderness, adverse activity, numbness, etc), improve the neck function, reduce IL-10, IL-6, TNF-α, and other related serum inflammatory factors, and improve hemorheological indicators.

COMPARISON OF THE EFFECT OF TWO REHABILITATION PROGRAMS ON SPINAL MOBILITY AND PAIN INTENSITY IN PATIENTS WITH SPINAL DISCOPATHY

Introduction. Approximately 80% of people experience back pain throughout their lives. A common problem of patients with low back pain is a significant limitation of mobility. Rehabilitation programs are usually recommended. Programs should include exercises that build flexibility, endurance, and strength. Kinesiotherapy is complemented by physiotherapy procedures, which are mainly aimed at analgesic and relaxing effects.&#x0D; The aim of the study was to compare the effect of two rehabilitation programs that differ in the type of kinesiotherapy on the mobility of the lumbar spine and the level of pain intensity in people with L5-S1 segment discopathy.&#x0D; Materials and methods. The study involved 30 patients undergoing 14 days of rehabilitation treatment. The criterion for dividing the subjects into groups was the method of kinesitherapy. The first group (Gr1) consisted of 15 patients who did gymnastics in the pool twice a day, and the second group (Gr2) consisted of 15 patients who attended therapeutic gymnastics classes in the gym twice a day. The exercises were aimed at improving the range of motion of the spine, strength and endurance of postural muscles. A visual analog scale was used to assess the intensity of pain. The distance between standard anthropometric points in the resting position and in the extreme position of movement was measured to assess the range of spinal movements.&#x0D; Results. After rehabilitation, the amplitude of movements of the lumbar spine increased in most patients. In Gr1, an increase in the range of forward spinal flexion by 9.2 cm (p = 0.001), rotation to the right by 0.63 cm (p = 0.03), and to the left by 1.33 cm (p = 0.007) was detected. In Gr2, the range of forward flexion increased by 12.6 cm (p = 0.005), left rotation by 0.94 cm (p = 0.035), and right flexion by 1.41 cm (p = 0.002). In the case of other movements, no statistically significant changes were found.&#x0D; In Gr1, the average pain intensity according to the VAS was 4.9 ± 2.3 points before the start of the physiotherapy program and 3.6 ± 1.7 points after its completion (p = 0.04). In Gr2, the VAS values were 5.1 ± 2.5 points and 3.9 ± 1.8 points, respectively (p = 0.03). The magnitude of changes in pain intensity was similar (-1.3 points and -1.2 points) for both programs.&#x0D; Conclusions. 1. The applied rehabilitation programs increased the mobility of the lumbar spine and reduced pain in patients with L5-S1 segment discopathy. 2. Both the hydrokinesitherapy program and the gym program were equally effective in increasing the range of motion of the spine and reducing the intensity of pain.

Mobility Device Use and Frailty Progression in Community-Dwelling Older Adults With Mobility Limitations.

Objective: Examine the association between mobility device use and changes in a frailty index (FI) over one year in community-dwelling older adults with mobility limitations. Methods: Analyses utilized 2015-2016 data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study community-dwelling older adults (n = 3934). We calculated a validated 40-item deficit accumulation frailty index (FI) in 2015 and 2016 and compared one year change in FI in older adults with/without canes or walkers using multivariable logistic regression. Analyses were repeated with stratification by baseline frailty. Results: Device use was not associated with worsening frailty in the overall cohort, but was associated with worsening frailty in non-frail individuals when stratified by baseline frailty. Discussion: Device use does not worsen frailty in individuals who are frail at baseline. Device users who were not frail at baseline experienced worsening frailty suggesting additional contributing factors to their frailty aside from mobility limitations.

FEATURES OF CHILDREN'S PHYSICAL THERAPY WITH LEGG-CALVE-PERTES DISEASE

Introduction. The article analyzes modern domestic and foreign publications related to the study of the effectiveness of physical therapy (PT) in Legg-Calve-Perthes disease (or juvenile osteochondrosis of the femoral head). Since today there is no certainty about the superiority of different FT agents in the treatment and rehabilitation of patients with Legg-Calve-Perthes disease of LKP), there is no unanimous opinion regarding the choice of the optimal time for the use of FT agents during the development of the disease, therefore, a review of rehabilitation programs with the features of the use of FT is relevant children with juvenile osteochondrosis of the femoral head.&#x0D; The aim of the study - study of physical therapy features in children with Legg-Calve-Perthes disease with analysis of existing physical rehabilitation programs.&#x0D; Conclusions. Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is characterized by unilateral or bilateral necrosis of the femoral head, which affects the range of motion of the hip. Despite the low incidence, LCP is a serious global health problem, as it affects a significant proportion of children under 15 years of age and is characterized by lameness, pain, and limitation of hip mobility.&#x0D; The causes of LKP disease are unknown. This disease is believed to be multifactorial, caused by a combination of environmental, metabolic, and genetic factors.&#x0D; The pathogenesis of LKP disease is complex, therefore, taking into account the multifactorial etiology, treatment and recovery, the prognosis of the disease is determined according to the characteristics of each patient, such as age, sex, type and size of the affected part of the femur.&#x0D; The analysis of the scientific and methodical literature indicated the need to observe the staged application of FT in the rehabilitation of this disease. The result of treatment and rehabilitation of patients with LKP depends to a large extent on the child's age, weight, gender, size of the femoral head necrososis, and the timeliness of medical and rehabilitation assistance. At the same time, the effectiveness and the choice of the optimal time for the use of FT agents in the course of the development of the disease of LCP have not been fully clarified.

THIẾT KẾ, CHẾ TẠO GĂNG TAY HỖ TRỢ PHỤC HỒI CHỨC NĂNG CHO NGƯỜI KHUYẾT TẬT SỬ DỤNG CÁC NGÓN MỀM

This article presents the development and production process of a glove designed for rehabilitation, and enhancing object manipulation capabilities for individuals with hand mobility limitations, using soft finger design. The soft fingers are constructed from a composite structure consisting of silicone rubber material. An automated calculation program is created in Python and integrated with Abaqus/CAE software, enabling the concurrent exploration of numerous parameters governing the soft fingers to choose a rational design of glove. Experimental tests reveal that the error of the experiment and simulation results is less than 7.8%. Furthermore, these deformable soft fingers can closely mimic the contours of human fingers. Leveraging the successful construction of the soft fingers, a corresponding soft glove is manufactured. Preliminary validated experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of these soft gloves in aiding patients with diverse exercise rehabilitation. Additionally, they provide support for basic tasks such as grasping objects weighing approximately 600 grams.

Resilient botany: Innovation in the face of limited mobility and resources

Resilient botany: Innovation in the face of limited mobility and resources

Urinary incontinence among Jordanian women: Prevalence, types, and associated factors

ObjectiveUrinary incontinence (UI) is a prevalent condition with a negative impact on women’s quality of life. Data about UI among Jordanian women are lacking; therefore, we aimed to investigate the prevalence, types, and associated factors. MethodsA cross sectional nationwide survey was conducted between March 1 2020 and April 15 2020. Women were included if they were 18 years of age or more and had access to the internet. Data collected included women’s characteristics, UI types, and associated factors. UI was inventoried by asking women if they have UI (yes/no), and the Arabic language validated International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Urinary Incontinence-Short Form was used. Age-group specific prevalence rates of UI were estimated, and associated factors were studied using logistic regression analyses. ResultsData from 2118 women were analysed. Median age (range) was 40 (18–85) years, 57.1% gave birth three or more times, and 64.1% consistently reported having UI. Limited mobility and being multiparous increased the likelihood of reporting UI. Compared to women with normal body mass index, overweight and obese women were 1.9 times and 3.6 times more likely to report UI, respectively. ConclusionThe prevalence of UI among Jordanian women is 64.1%, with mixed UI and stress UI being the more prevalent types in women younger than 60 years. Age, parity body mass index, and limited mobility are all associated factors with UI. The results of this study provide healthcare policy makers with the necessary information to increase awareness and knowledge regarding UI.

Incidence and prevalence of musculoskeletal health conditions in survivors of childhood and adolescent cancers: A report from the Swiss childhood cancer survivor study.

Childhood cancer and its treatment can cause damage to the musculoskeletal system. We aimed to determine the incidence and prevalence of musculoskeletal health conditions (MSHC) in survivors, and to investigate differences by cancer-related characteristics. We used data from the Childhood Cancer Registry and the Swiss Childhood Cancer Survivor Study, including survivors (≥5 years since diagnosis; diagnosed 1976-2015 at <20 years of age) aged ≥15 years at study. Cumulative incidence and prevalence of MSHCs (osteoporosis, limb length discrepancy, limited joint mobility, bone/joint pain, scoliosis, changes to chest/ribs and amputation) were calculated from self-reported data. We included 2645 survivors (53% men; median age 24 years, range 15-59 years). Prevalence and cumulative incidence of any MSHC was 21% and 26%, respectively. Incidence rate for any MSHC was 15.6/1000 person-years. Scoliosis (8%), bone/joint pain (7%) and limited joint mobility (7%) were the most prevalent MSHC. MSHC co-occurred with other health conditions in 87% of survivors. We found increased rates of MSHC in women (RR = 1.4, 95%CI: 1.2-1.7), bone tumour survivors (RR = 6.0, 95%CI: 4.5-7.9), survivors older at diagnosis (11-15 years: RR = 1.8, 95%CI: 1.5-2.3), after a relapse (RR = 1.5, 95%CI: 1.3-1.9), treatment with surgery (RR = 1.2, 95%CI: 1.0-1.5), chemotherapy (RR = 1.4, 95%CI: 1.1-1.8) or stem cell transplantation (RR = 1.6, 95%CI: 1.0-2.5), and more recent year of diagnosis (2011-2015: RR = 4.3, 95%CI: 2.8-6.8). MSHCs are prevalent in survivors, the risk is increasing in younger survivor cohorts, and MSHCs usually occur in multimorbid survivors. Strengthening of rehabilitation services and appropriate referrals are needed to mitigate the effects of the cancer and cancer treatment.

Mechanical Ventilation in Older Adults With Dementia: Opportunities to Promote Goal-Concordant Care

ContextRecent studies show increasing use of mechanical ventilation among people living with dementia. There are concerns that this trend may not be driven by patient preferences. ObjectivesTo better understand decision-making regarding mechanical ventilation in people living with dementia. MethodsThis was an electronic health record-based retrospective cohort study of older adults with dementia (n = 295) hospitalized at one of two teaching hospitals between 2015 and 2019 who were supported with mechanical ventilation (n = 191) or died without mechanical ventilation (n = 104). Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine associations between patient characteristics and mechanical ventilation use. ResultsThe median age was 78 years (IQR 71–86), 41% were female, 28% resided in a nursing home, and 58% had clinical markers of advanced dementia (dehydration, weight loss, mobility limitations, or pressure ulcers). Among patients supported with mechanical ventilation, 70% were intubated within 24 hours of presentation, including 31% intubated before hospital arrival. Younger age, higher illness acuity, and absence of a treatment-limiting Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment document were associated with mechanical ventilation use; nursing home residence and clinical markers of advanced dementia were not. Most patients (89%) had a documented goals of care discussion (GOCD) during hospitalization. ConclusionFuture efforts to promote goal-concordant care surrounding mechanical ventilation use for people living with dementia should involve identifying barriers to goal-concordant care in pre-hospital settings, assessing the timeliness of in-hospital GOCD, and developing strategies for in-the-moment crisis communication across settings.

Determination of the optimal position of the lower extremity for femoral nerve block with ultrasonographic measurements: a prospective volunteer-based study.

The aim of the study was to determine the optimal position for femoral nerve block (FNB) under ultrasound guidance. We included fifty volunteers between 18-65 years of age in this study. The distances from the skin to the landmarks, which were taken as a reference for the ultrasound-guided FNB (apex point of the femoral artery = F12, lateral point = F9, and lower point = F6), were measured and compared in 3 different positions given to the lower extremity (neutral position: P1, 45° abduction: P2, and flexed knee: P3). The ease of application and the quality of the ultrasound images were evaluated at each measurement by assigning a subjective observer score and comparing them in three positions. All three measurement points were found to be closest to the skin at position P3. However, the distances from F9 (p = 0.023) and F6 (p = 0.006) to the skin were significant. A significant difference was found between P1 and P3 in terms of the distance from F9 (p = 0.027) and F6 to the skin (p = 0.007). P3 was determined to be the position with the highest score for clarity of the ultrasonography images and ease of detection of the measurement points (p < 0.001). As the scores of ease of access to the femoral nerve (FN) and image clarity increased, the distance from the measurement point to the skin surface decreased, which was statistically significant. The ideal position for ultrasound-guided FNB is the P3 position. As an alternative for patients with limited mobility, the P2 position can be used.

New therapeutic strategies in osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent arthritis-type and is a major contributor to chronic joint pain, impaired physical function, and limited mobility. By the end of 2020, a total of 595 million, equal to 7·6% of the global population, had OA; this figure is expected to rise exponentially by 2050. Even while the disorder's intricate pathophysiology is starting to appear intelligible, we are yet to have a cure for the disorder. OA is typically managed with traditional palliative measures, such as topical and systemic analgesics, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, therapeutic exercise, and braces. Sometimes, intra-articular glucocorticoids, viscosupplementation, or regenerative interventions provide short-term pain relief and functional improvement; some may require arthroplasty. Researchers continue their efforts to unveil a new therapeutic target to be effective in OA that modifies symptoms and arrests disease progression as well. In the present literature review, insights into new therapeutic strategies in OA, for example, liposome-based dexamethasone, microspore-based triamcinolone, nerve growth factor antagonist, anti-ADAMTS-5 (A Disintegrin And Metalloproteinase Thrombospoidin Motifs - 5), pentosan polysulfate sodium, allogeneic stem cells, C-C chemokine receptor type-4 (CCR4) ligand 17 inhibitor, Wnt-signaling inhibitor, and anti-obesity medications are provided.

Rehabilitating a 44-year-old Chronically Traumatized Parapalegic Woman: a Case Study

Spinal cord injury (SCI) resulting from trauma imposes major and permanent life changes on the predominantly young male population who receive these injuries. Paralysis of the muscle below the level of injury can lead to limited and altered mobility, self-care and ability to participate in valued social activities. In addition to the musculoskeletal system, many other body systems are also impaired. The psychosocial impact of the SCI can be just as great as the physical impact. Rehabilitation is an important element toward achieving a fulfilling and active life after an SCI. Physical therapist play a key role in rehabilitation process. A detailed neurological assessment of a patient was done and the severity of the injury was graded according to ASIA impairment scale. A systematic treatment plan was made and altered according to the patient’s recovery and needs.

Promoting Older Adults’ Engagement in Disaster Recovery Through Supportive Relationships, Partnerships, and Collaboration: Perspectives of Social Work Practitioners and Human Service Professionals

Shifting demographics—that is, the growing number of older adults in Canada and internationally—and intersecting climatic risks create a complex landscape of aging in place in disaster contexts. Some older adults are vulnerable due to their underlying health conditions and limited physical mobility. Yet they also exhibit resilience in a distinct manner, owing to their wealth of knowledge, wisdom, and ability to navigate adversities. This article elucidates potential avenues for promoting the involvement of older adults in disaster recovery efforts. Our intention is to recognize and foster older adult resilience and mitigate vulnerability by drawing upon insights from the study titled “In the Aftermath of the 2016 Alberta Wildfires: The Role of Social Work Practitioners and Human Service Professionals in Long-Term Disaster Recovery.” Employing a qualitative research approach, that study recruited 51 participants for semistructured interviews and focus groups. A thematic analysis of the collected data unveiled the pivotal roles played by social workers and human service practitioners in facilitating recovery from the 2016 wildfires in the research. Notably, three overarching themes emerged concerning the promotion of older adults’ involvement in disaster recovery: fostering supportive relationships, building partnerships and enhancing collaboration, and addressing ongoing challenges. These findings offer valuable insights into how social work practitioners and human service professionals can effectively facilitate the engagement of older adults in disaster recovery initiatives. This article emphasizes the significance of actively promoting the participation of older adults in disaster mitigation efforts, thereby fostering greater resilience within communities.