Outpatient Physiotherapy Department Research Articles

Efficacy of Otago versus Bosu ball exercise protocol on core stabilization, static and dynamic balance in non-specific chronic low back pain: a randomized parallel arm clinical trial

Abstract Chronic non-specific low back pain (NSLBP) is a pain and stiffness in the lower back region for which specific cause of the pain is unknown. Otago exercises and Bosu ball exercises aim to improve balance and reduce pain and disability. There is a lack of literature where these approaches are not compared and hence the need arises to evaluate their efficacy in the management of NSLBP. A randomized parallel arm clinical trial was conducted in physiotherapy outpatient department at tertiary care center located in Belagavi city, India. 36 individuals with NSLBP, where 18 individuals were randomly allocated into two groups, i.e. Group A (Otago exercise) and Group B (both sides utilized (Bosu) ball exercise). Both the groups received conventional therapy (hot moist pack and interferential current therapy) 3 times/ week for 4 weeks. Outcome measures like plank holding test, star excursion balance test (SEBT), single-leg stance test (SLST), visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) were assessed at baseline and on day 12 post-treatment. A within-group analysis using the Wilcoxon matched-pairs test and the dependent t-test showed statistically significant improvements in all outcome measures (). Between group analysis has shown both interventions to be equally effective in ODI () in individuals with NSLBP. In conclusion both Otago and Bosu ball exercises were effective, Bosu ball exercise demonstrated greater efficacy in enhancing core stability, static and dynamic balance, as well as reducing disability and pain in individuals with chronic NSLBP. Clinical trial registry of India: registration number CTRI/2023/11/059489

THE EFFICACY OF DYNAMIC TAPPING IN PATIENTS WITH TENNIS ELBOW A STUDY OF RANDOMISED CONTROLLED TRIAL

The purpose of the study is to evaluate the efficacy of Dynamic taping in conjunction with conventional physiotherapy compared to conventional physiotherapy alone for tennis elbow. Objectives: To evaluate pain intensity at rest, during forceful wrist extension, during forceful grip, during the Cozen test, at resisted middle finger extension, and during palpation of the affected site, both before and after conventional physiotherapy combined with Dynamic taping, as well as conventional physiotherapy alone, in patients with tennis elbow. Methodology: 70Individuals diagnosed with tennis elbow were directly Selected from the physiotherapy outpatient department at CMJ University, Meghalaya. 60 participants were deemed suitable for the study and were randomly allocated to two groups: Group A and Group B. In Group A (Experimental group), 30 patients received both dynamic taping and conventional physiotherapy, while Group B (Control group) consisted of 30 patients who received only conventional physiotherapy. The Visual Analogue Scale was employed to assess pain severity in various functional positions. An independent t-test was used to compare the results. Results: Following Treatment, the study revealed that the experimental group exhibited a notable enhancement in pain associated with forceful wrist extension (p<0.05), pain during vigorous grip (p<0.05), pain on the Cozen test (p<0.05), pain during forceful middle finger extension (p<0.025), and pain upon palpation (p<0.025). In instances of resting discomfort, a substantial reduction in pain intensity was not observed. Conclusion:This experimental investigation demonstrates that the application of Dynamic taping in conjunction with conventional physiotherapy is more efficacious than conventional physiotherapy alone for patients suffering from tennis elbow.

Yoga Exercises as a Therapeutic Approach for Adults with Insomnia to Promote better Sleep: A Randomized Control Trial

Background: Insomnia is a prevalent sleep disorder that significantly impacts the quality of life and is associated with various health complications, including high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, anxiety, and depression. Traditional treatments for insomnia often involve pharmacological interventions, but there is growing interest in alternative therapies such as yoga. This study investigates the efficacy of yoga as a therapeutic approach to improving sleep quality in adults with insomnia. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of a structured yoga program on sleep quality and sleep latency in adults diagnosed with insomnia. Methods: The study employed a cross-sectional design conducted at multiple healthcare facilities, including the Physiotherapy Outpatient Department at Holy Family Hospital, Benazir Bhutto Hospital, and District Headquarters Hospital in Rawalpindi. The study duration was four months, involving 54 participants selected through random sampling techniques. Inclusion criteria included adults aged 18 to 65 years diagnosed with insomnia according to the International Classification of Sleep Disorders (ICSD) or the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Exclusion criteria included severe medical or psychiatric disorders, substance abuse, pregnancy, or recent changes in sleep medication. Participants in the intervention group engaged in a standardized yoga program consisting of gentle yoga postures, controlled breathing techniques, and mindfulness meditation, conducted twice weekly for eight weeks, with each session lasting 60 minutes. The control group received standard care for insomnia. Data collection involved subjective assessments of sleep quality using validated questionnaires and objective measures through polysomnography. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0, with independent sample t-tests comparing means between groups and repeated measures ANOVA for within-group analysis. Results: The yoga group showed significant improvements in subjective sleep quality and sleep latency. The mean sleep quality score improved from 2.18 ± 0.66 pre-intervention to 0.92 ± 0.37 post-intervention (p=0.0001), while the control group showed a less marked improvement from 2.37 ± 0.48 to 2.03 ± 0.18 (p=0.0012). Sleep latency in the yoga group decreased from 3.00 ± 0.00 to 1.29 ± 0.40 (p=0.0002), whereas the control group showed a reduction from 2.44 ± 0.49 to 2.11 ± 0.31 (p=0.0013). ANOVA results confirmed the statistical significance of these findings, with an F-value of 69.897 for sleep quality (p=0.0001) and 361.947 for sleep latency (p=0.0002). Conclusion: The findings indicate that a structured yoga program significantly improves sleep quality and reduces sleep latency in adults with insomnia. Yoga appears to be an effective non-pharmacological intervention for managing insomnia, offering a viable alternative to traditional treatments.

Exercise Capacity and Fatigue in Post-COVID-19 Patients

Background: While many researchers have investigated the influence of COVID-19 on fatigue and quality of life, its impact on exercise capacity has been little considered. It is therefore our aim to examine the impact of COVID-19 on exercise capacity and fatigue among individuals who have recovered from the virus. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the outpatient physical therapy department of a tertiary hospital and Primary health care center. The study comprised 116 participants divided into two groups: a normative group composed of individuals who had not been infected with COVID-19 in the past three months, and a control group consisting of those who had contracted COVID-19 within the preceding three months. The one-minute sit-to-stand test (1STST) was carried out to assess exercise capacity, following which fatigue was measured using the validated Arabic version of the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). Results: Of the 116 participants enrolled in this study, 76 (65.5%) were in the normative group and 40 (34.5%) in the control group. Following the intervention, the mean FSS score differed significantly between the normative (26.6; SD 10.9) and the control group (36.9; SD 14.8); p-value < 0.001, with participants in the control group reporting higher levels of weariness than those in the normative group. Moreover, as measured by 1STST, the median number of sit-to-stand repetitions completed by participants in the normative group (21.0) was considerably greater than that of the control group (20.0); p-value = 0.025. Conclusion: Participants in the control group reported higher levels of fatigue and demonstrated lower exercise capacity than those in the normative group.

Immediate Effects of Ankle Eversion Taping on Balance and Gait in Recovering Stroke Patients: A Pre- Post Experimental Study

Background: Poststroke decrement in balance and gait ability disturbs daily routine of patients and increases the risk of falling. Several factors contribute to it, foot drop being one primary cause. Therefore, treating foot drop seems to be a representative approach to retain balance and gait, and the most common available options of treatment are first functional electrical stimulation (FES) and second ankle foot orthosis (AFO). However, FES and AFO are costly, inconvenient, and unattractive. Hence, to avoid these reasons, taping as an ailing method is used, because it is easily applicable and inexpensive. Aims: The aim of this study is to study and compare the effect of ankle eversion taping (AET) on balance and gait ability before and after its application. Settings and Designs: This study was conducted in the outpatient department of physiotherapy (O. P. D. 16) S. S. G. hospital, Vadodara, A pre-post experimental study. Subjects and Methods: Stroke diagnosed 50 patients participated in this study. AET consists of two stages: first of which is the application of tape for posterior talar glide and second stage is eversion taping which places ankle in more everted (neutral) position. Pre- and post-intervention assessment after an hour of an intervention scores of Berg Balance Scale and dynamic gait index were assessed and analyzed. Statistical Analysis Used: Paired t-test was to find out the efficiency of AET on balancing and gait ability in recovering patients of stroke. Results and Conclusions: Obtained P value for both the two outcomes was P < 0.05 at 95% confidence interval, suggesting high significant effect. AET is effective in improving balance and gait and its parameters in recovering stroke patients.

Effect of Conventional Physiotherapeutic Techniques on Post-Operative Facial Palsy: A Case Study

This case study highlights the benefits of combining multiple conventional physiotherapeutic methods for post-operative facial palsy with an evidence-based treatment plan using the International Classification of Functioning Disability and Health ICF. A middle-aged female reported with a primary complaint of facial weakness experienced post the surgical removal of parotid gland due to pleomorphic adenomatous growth. Treatment was offered at the out-patient physiotherapy department and each session lasted for 45 minutes with exercises like proprioceptive training facial neuromuscular rehabilitation mime therapy and sensory re-education incorporated as a part of the patients dose-based physical treatment. With outcome measurements Sunnybrook Facial Grading System indicating improvement by 27 points and Facial Disability Index showing improvement by 41 points and a noticeably higher level of confidence the patient demonstrated a considerable reduction in discomfort and improvement of mobility prior to discharge. The case study focuses on how an evidence-based plan of conventional treatment strategies ensures better prognosis for a patient with post-operative facial palsy.

Effects of Galvanic Skin Resistance Biofeedback on Perceived Stress in Individuals with High Blood Pressure: A Quasi-experimental Study

Introduction: According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), hypertension is one of the leading causes of premature morbidity and mortality, both in industrialised and developing countries. Patients with arterial hypertension are advised to make lifestyle adjustments, such as increasing physical activity and reducing stress. Nowadays, a variety of relaxation techniques are used to reduce stress and tension. The practise of Biofeedback (BF) is regarded as a successful treatment for this purpose. Aim: To investigate the effect of Galvanic Skin Resistance Biofeedback (GSRBF) on perceived stress. Materials and Methods: In present quasi-experimental study, 53 individuals with high blood pressure, including prehypertensive and hypertensive individuals {Blood Pressure (BP)> 120/80 mmHg}, were included. Participants were recruited from various Medical and Physiotherapy Outpatient Departments (OPD) of private and Government hospitals and clinics in Veraval, Gujarat, India, from March 2022 to September 2022. Basic demographic data was collected, Blood Pressure (BP) was measured, and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) was administered. Participants were then connected to the GSRBF instrument and instructed to relax using a relaxation response technique. After 12 sessions, BP was measured again, and the PSS was administered. As the data were not normally distributed, a t-test was performed at a significance level of 95% (p<0.05). Results: The analysis revealed a significant decrease in PSS scores following GSRBF sessions, with a p-value of <0.05. Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) and Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) also showed a significant reduction, with a p-value of <0.05. Conclusion: The GSRBF demonstrated a significant reduction in perceived stress among individuals with high blood pressure, and it also showed a significant reduction in SBP and DBP. The present study provides valuable insights into the potential of GSRBF as an adjunct therapy for managing hypertension and promoting overall well-being.

Effect of Yoga Nidra on Perceived Stress Section in Individuals with High Blood Pressure: A Quasi-experimental Study

Introduction: A persistently high level of stress can lead to a variety of diseases, such as anxiety, depression, sleeplessness, muscle discomfort, high Blood Pressure (BP) and a compromised immune system. Although 15% of adults in India suffer from hypertension, significant progress has been made in preventing and managing this condition. One alternative form of treatment that may help with stress management and BP regulation is Yoga Nidra. Aim: To assess the effect of Yoga Nidra on perceived stress in Individuals with High Blood Pressure. Materials and Methods: The present quasi-experimental study was conducted at various medical and physiotherapy Outpatient Departments (OPDs) in Veraval, Gujarat, India, from June 2021 to September 2022. A total of 49 individuals diagnosed with high BP, including both prehypertensive and hypertensive individuals (with BP >120/80 mmHg), were selected. Essential demographic information was gathered from the participants, who were also asked to complete the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) questionnaire. Participants were introduced to the concept of Yoga Nidra and provided with instructions on how to perform the Yoga Nidra technique. They engaged in 12 sessions of this technique. After completing these 12 sessions, participants once again completed the PSS questionnaire. Since the collected data did not exhibit a normal distribution, a paired t-test was conducted at a significance level of 95%. Results: Out of 49 study participants, 22 (45%) were females and 27 (55%) were males, and mean±Standard Deviation (SD) age was 47.86±10.62 years. The analysis revealed a significant reduction in PSS scores following the Yoga Nidra sessions (p-value=0.0001). Additionally, both Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) and Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) showed decrease with a p-value of 0.0001. Conclusion: Yoga Nidra has a significant effect on reducing perceived stress in individuals with high blood pressure, along with a reduction in blood pressure. This research provides valuable findings regarding the potential of Yoga Nidra as an additional relaxation therapy to help manage hypertension and enhance overall well-being.

Effect of Isometric and Dynamic Resistance Exercises on Functional Performance and Glycoprotein-bound Haemoglobin of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: An Interventional Study

Introduction: Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent articular and rheumatologic condition, impacting over 80% of individuals aged 55 and above. There exists a significant correlation between Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and OA. Both Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and OA are common afflictions. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in alleviating pain and mitigating issues linked to the early stages of knee OA and DM. The rationale of this study is to determine whether isometric resistance exercise can achieve comparable or superior outcomes to dynamic resistance exercise in terms of long-term glycaemic control and physical function, while also being more tolerable for individuals with knee OA. Aim: To compare the efficacy of resistance exercises in diabetic patients with knee OA and specifically to examine how two resistance exercise protocols influence glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels and functional performance. Materials and Methods: An interventional study was conducted using a convenience sampling technique. Approximately, 30 subjects were selected from the primary physiotherapy outpatient department in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. The study lasted for 12 weeks, from July 2022 to September 2022. The total population was split into two groups: Group-A received dynamic resistance exercises, whereas Group-B underwent isometric resistance exercises. Both pre- and post-treatment evaluations were performed using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities OA Index questionnaire (WOMAC), alongside measuring HbA1c levels in all participants. Care instructions emphasised weight reduction, maintaining a balanced diet, and avoiding prolonged periods of standing. Paired t test was used to compare the pre and post test WOMAC scores and p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Significant changes were observed in WOMAC scores and HbA1c pre-post comparison. The study revealed a statistically significant difference in reducing pain, enhancing functional performance, and lowering HbA1c levels among both groups (p≤0.001). Conclusion: The results indicate that both groups experienced effective pain relief and reduced HbA1c levels after the treatment period. However, subjects treated with dynamic resistance exercises demonstrated greater enhancements in functional performance and reductions in HbA1c levels compared to the isometric resistance exercises.

Optimising physiotherapy for people with lateral elbow tendinopathy – Results of a mixed-methods pilot and feasibility randomised controlled trial (OPTimisE)

BackgroundThe OPTimisE intervention was developed to address uncertainty regarding the most effective physiotherapy treatment strategy for people with Lateral Elbow Tendinopathy (LET). ObjectivesTo assess the feasibility of conducting a fully-powered randomised controlled trial (RCT) evaluating whether the OPTimisE intervention is superior to usual physiotherapy treatment for adults with LET. DesignA mixed-methods multi-centred, parallel pilot and feasibility RCT, conducted in three outpatient physiotherapy departments in the UK. MethodPatients were independently randomised 1:1 in mixed blocks, stratified by site, to the OPTimisE intervention or usual care. Outcomes were assessed using pre-defined feasibility progression criteria. Results50 patients were randomised (22 Female, 28 Male), mean age 48 years (range 27–75). Consent rate was 71% (50/70), fidelity to intervention 89% (16/18), attendance rate in the OPTimisE group 82% (55/67) vs 85% (56/66) in usual care, outcome measure completion 81% (39/48) at six-month follow-up. There were no related adverse events. Patients and physiotherapists reported that the OPTimisE intervention was acceptable but suggested improvements to the trial design. 49 patients were recruited from physiotherapy referrals vs one from primary care records. Outcome measure return rates were higher when completed online (74%) compared to postal questionnaire (50%). Exploratory analysis showed improvements in both groups over time. ConclusionsIt is methodologically feasible to conduct a fully powered RCT comparing the clinical and cost-effectiveness of the OPTimisE intervention versus usual physiotherapy treatment. Considering the similar improvements observed in both groups, careful consideration is needed regarding the priority research question to be addressed in future research.

Benefits of a 12-week pulmonary rehabilitation programme in interstitial lung diseases: 1 year post completions

Objectives Evidence on the efficacy of Pulmonary Rehabilitation in the management of ILD is growing. Despite studies reporting benefits, few studies have investigated the long-term effects in such patients, resulting in a call for such research. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a 12-week PR programme on exercise tolerance, quality of life and physical activity, 6- and 12-months post completion. Design An observational, prospective, quasi experimental type of study. Setting Out-Patient Physiotherapy Department. Participants 60 participants diagnosed with Interstitial Lung Disease. Intervention A 12week PR programme was delivered with outcome measures assessed throughout the programme and at the 28th and 52nd week. Main Outcome Measures 6-min walking distance test, Dyspnoea Borg Scale, St George’s Respiratory Questionnaire and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Score were measured. Results Maintenance of effects was noted in SGRQ scores p = 0.005 on completion of the 12week programme, depression scores (p = 0.038 at week 28 and p = 0.008 at week 52) and BODE index resulting in a statistically significant improvement at the 52nd week (p = 0.017). Benefits of in the 6MWT were maintained at 28week but had a statistically significant decline at 52weeks post completion (p = 0.013). Dyspnoea scores increased post completion of the 12week PR programme at both the 28th week (p = 0.008) and 52nd week (p = 0.005). Conclusion Improvements were maintained up to 1 year post completion in most outcome measures or else showed benefits till the 52week.

Comparative effects of Bowen therapy and tennis ball technique on pain and functional disability in patients with thoracic myofascial pain syndrome

BackgroundThoracic myofascial pain syndrome is a clinical problem arising from the muscles and soft tissues of thoracic region, which include the mid and upper back area. Risk factors associated with myofascial pain syndrome are muscle overuse and repetitive strain, poor posture, trauma or injury, emotional and psychological stresses. The management of myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) typically involves a multidimensional approach that focuses on relieving pain, reducing muscle tension, and improving muscle function. Bowen therapy and tennis ball technique are also recommended for treating myofascial pain syndrome.ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to compare the effects of Bowen therapy and tennis ball technique on pain and functional disability in patients with thoracic myofascial pain syndrome.MethodsIt was a randomized clinical trial conducted on thirty patients. It was carried out in physiotherapy outpatient department of D.H.Q Hospital, Kasur. Non-probability convenience sampling technique was used. Data collection was done from the patients of thoracic myofascial pain syndrome by using Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) for pain and Pain Disability Questionnaire (PDQ) for functional disability. Participants were randomly allocated into two groups using computer generated random number method. Group A received Bowen therapy, and group B received tennis ball technique. Outcome measures were measured at baseline, after second week treatment session and after fourth week with three sessions in a week on alternate days. Data analysis was done by using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.ResultsThere was significant difference between the mean values of NPRS and PDQ in both groups at baseline, second week and fourth week with p value < 0.05. The results indicated that both treatments were significant but Bowen therapy is more effective treatment than tennis ball technique. Within-group difference calculated with repeated-measure ANOVA indicated that there was significant difference from pre- to post-values of both groups.ConclusionThis study concluded that Bowen therapy produced statistically significant and clinically relavant results for all the outcome measures. Trial registration. (IRCT20190717044238N7).

Efficacy of upper limb training on grip strength and muscle activity in individuals with type 2 diabetes: a feasibility study

Abstract The upper limb (UL) is one of the important target for musculoskeletal complications in patients with diabetes. The objective of this trial was to measure the feasibility and clinical effectiveness of upper limb training on grip strength and muscle activity in individuals with Type 2 Diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A parallel three-arm randomised controlled trial (RCT) was employed. Fifty-seven patients with T2DM aged between 35 to 60 years were recruited based on eligibility criteria and asked to visit the outpatient department (OPD) of physiotherapy. They were randomly allocated into 3 groups; resistance training (RT) group; sensorimotor training (SMT) group; and control group with the help of a computer-generated random number table. Primary outcome measures were recruitment rate, outcome measure, retention rate, adherence, and acceptability of the intervention to assess trial feasibility. The efficacy of training on grip strength and on activation of deltoid, bicep and triceps brachii after 6 weeks was measured using a JAMAR hand dynamometer and S4-channel Neurostim EMG/NCV/EP system, respectively. The feasibility of recruitment rate of participants was 72.15%, outcome measures feasibility was 81%, retention rate of participants was 81% and intervention adherence was 91.34% for RT group &amp; 87.41% for SMT group. Most of the participants were satisfied with the given intervention as the acceptance rate was high. Between and within-group analysis of muscular activity and strength shows a significant difference as the P-value was &lt; 0.05. RT group shows maximum improvement in both outcome measures. This study was feasible and well accepted by participants. Therefore, it is possible to perform a fully powered RCT and to use upper limb training in the future for good clinical management in type 2 diabetic population. This trial was registered under the Clinical Trial Registry of India (CTRI) with registration no. CTRI/2021/06/034188.

Connective Tissue Mobilization Vs. Combination of Taping with Pelvic Tilt on Primary Dysmenorrhea.

Primary dysmenorrhea is pain aggravation on menstruation without any pelvic disease. It is perhaps the most widely recognizedissue females face, influencing them physically and mentally. Connective tissue mobilization can help venous return by increasing theproduction of prostaglandin and different substances and preventing their collection in the pelvis, which can be powerful during the period,to reduce the pain aggravation and inconvenience. This study examines the effects of connective tissue mobilization vs. a combination oftaping and pelvic tilt on unmarried women with primary dysmenorrhea. This is an experimental design with pre and post-comparativestudy. This was conducted in the physiotherapy outpatient department at ACS Medical College and Hospital. The study duration was about3 months. The subjects aged 18 to 25 years female with primary dysmenorrheal were included in this study. The subject with Pelvicinflammatory disease, Uterine/ovarian tumor, Spinal pathology, deformity, and PCOD, were excluded from this study. 30 subjects wereselected and divided into 2 groups in which Group-A 15 received connective tissue mobilization for 3-4 minutes with a total of 20minutes/day a day before menstruation for 3 days for consecutive 3 months, and Group B received taping with pelvic tilt was given 4 daysfor lower abdomen and lumbar, one day before menstruation taping was applied and pelvic tilt was given 2-3 minutes for 20 minutes/dayfor 3 consecutive months The outcome measures were a pain. The outcome tools were the Menstrual symptom questionnaire, Numericalrating scale, and WaLIDD score. Comparing the pretest and posttest within Group A and Group B, Group B shows a highly significantdifference in Mean values at P &lt;_0.001. Thus this study concludes that a combination of taping and pelvic tilt reduces pain in unmarriedwomen having primary Dysmenorrhea.

Improving the quality of rehabilitation following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery, in an outpatient physiotherapy department

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is a type of orthopaedic knee surgery and physiotherapy rehabilitation is undertaken for several months postoperatively, often with the aim of returning the patient to...

Feasibility and Efficacy of Craniosacral Therapy on Sleep Quality in Fibromyalgia Syndrome: a Pre-Post Pilot Trial.

Sleep disturbance is one of the key symptoms of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS), which negatively affects the participants' quality of life. Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a gentle manual technique found to have significant effects on pain and function in chronic pain participants. However, limited evidence exists on its effectiveness on sleep quality in FMS participants. To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of CST on sleep quality in FMS participants. Outpatient physiotherapy department of a hospital in Bangalore. Participants diagnosed with FMS. A pre/post pilot trial. Once weekly, 45-minute sessions of CST for 12 weeks. The participants continued the standard medical care prescribed by the physician. The sleep quality was evaluated using Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) at baseline and 12 weeks. The data analysis was carried out using paired t test. 9 out of 10 included participants completed the treatment and were included for analysis. The results of the paired t test showed significant improvement in the global PSQI score (p = .001, mean difference = 5.44±3.28, 95% CI = 2.92-7.97), as well as the 5 components of PSQI (p < .05). CST was feasible to deliver with high retention, acceptability, and minimal adverse events. It significantly improved sleep quality in FMS participants along with standard medical care. However, future studies with larger sample sizes and appropriate control groups are required to confirm the findings.

Association Between Subscapularis Trigger Point and Frozen Shoulder: A Cross Sectional Study

Background: Uncertainty surrounds the relationship between subscapularis trigger sites and the development of frozen shoulder syndrome. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between subscapularis trigger points and immobilized shoulder in patients from the Outpatient Physical Therapy Department at NMC Hyderabad. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2022 to February 2023 and included 71 patients diagnosed with grade 1 or 2 frozen shoulder based on Codman's criteria and aged 35 or older. Using an axillary approach, subscapularis trigger points were identified manually, and their presence was evaluated on both the affected and unaffected sides. Using the Chi-square test in SPSS version 22, the relationship between subscapularis trigger points and immobilized shoulder was analyzed. Results: 33 (46.5%) of the 71 participants were male, while 38 (53.5%) were female, with a mean age of 53.32 years. On the affected side, there was a significant association between frozen shoulder and subscapularis trigger points (p =.001). Intriguingly, a statistically significant difference was also observed in the unaffected shoulder joint (p =.001). Practical Implications: It highlighted the importance of diagnosing and treating subscapularis trigger points in patients with frozen shoulder, potentially guiding new therapeutic strategies to improve shoulder mobility and reduce pain in these individuals. Conclusion: Our findings indicate a considerable association between subscapularis triggers points and frozen shoulder, making these trigger points possible therapeutic targets. To investigate the underlying mechanisms and validate these results in larger populationss, additional research is required. Keywords: Frozen shoulder syndrome; Orthopedics; Subscapularis trigger points; Surgery

Do dietary habits affect the premenstrual syndrome severity among a cohort of Egyptian females? A cross-sectional study

BackgroundPremenstrual syndrome (PMS) is considered a common recurring emotional as well as physical disorder which has an effect on the women’s quality of life. Results of previous studies about the relationship between PMS and food intake are contradicted. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the PMS and food consumption in menstrual females. The study was carried out in the Outpatient Physiotherapy Department Clinic in Cairo University, Giza, Egypt. The study was carried out from October 2021 to March 2022. One-hundred participants that were having PMS enrolled into this study (n = 100) with a mean age of 27.1 ± 4.98 and a mean BMI of 26.4 ± 4.5. The PMS scale was used to assess the degree of PMS, and a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was applied to evaluate the food consumption.ResultsA total of 16% of females had mild PMS, 60% had moderate, and 24% had severe PMS. There was a significant relationship between PMS severity and specific food consumption as consumption of tubers as well as fish and seafood (p = 0.03 & p = 0.008, respectively). There was a significant inverse correlation between PMS severity and the fish and seafood consumption, while there was no significant correlation between the PMS severity and tuber consumption. However, there was no significant relationship between PMS and grains, dairy products, caffeine intake, fat intake, sweets, vegetables, fruits, seasonings, and pickles.ConclusionThe present study suggested that severity of PMS might be affected by specific dietary habits. Therefore, further studies are needed to investigate the relationship between PMS and amount of food consumption.

Magnitude of depression and associated risk factors among patients with musculoskeletal disorder treated in physiotherapy outpatient department in Amhara region comprehensive specialized hospital in Ethiopia: a prospective cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe state of depression that can lead to substance and drug abuse, as well as an increased risk of suicide. Without a doubt, the link between musculoskeletal pain and depression compromises a person’s health and drastically lowers their quality of life, resulting in increased incapacity. Depression and musculoskeletal discomfort are two well-known risk factors for long-term sickness absence, which is defined as a period of sickness lasting more than a week, which means chronic musculoskeletal pains, particularly multiple pains, are linked to depression. And early diagnosis and care of depression in musculoskeletal disorder are critical to patients’ physical, functional, and occupational results. This study aimed to assess the magnitude of depression and associated risk factors among patients with musculoskeletal disorder.MethodMulti-institution cross-sectional study conducted in Amhara region Comprehensive specialized Hospitals from April 1st to May 30th, 2021. The data was collected from 217 participants through interview administrative questioner and patient medical record review. Binary logistic regression was used to identify associated risk factors of depression. The strength of the association was detected by the adjusted odds ratio.ResultA total of 217 participate in this study with the age range of 18–80 years. Among the study participants, 57.1% (n = 124) (AOR: 95% CI: 50.7–63.6) were had depression. Treatment duration, and social support were significantly association with depression among patient with musculoskeletal disorder with P < 0.05.ConclusionThe magnitude of depression was relatively high among musculoskeletal disorder patients treated in physiotherapy out-patient department. The length of treatment duration (hospital stay) and the status of social support from families and friends were significantly associated with depression among patients with musculoskeletal disorders. A multidisciplinary strategy is required for diagnosing and treating depression in patients with musculoskeletal disorder.

Implementing a physiotherapy led cancer exercise programme in a National Cancer Centre: the FIXCAS study

ObjectivesTo examine the feasibility of implementing a 10-week exercise-based cancer rehabilitation programme in a national cancer centre. DesignA single-arm prospective feasibility study. SettingAn outpatient physiotherapy department. ParticipantsForty de-conditioned cancer survivors (<1 year post completion of treatment). InterventionsA 10-week programme of twice weekly group-based supervised exercise sessions. Main outcome measuresA mixed methods approach was used. The primary outcome of the study was feasibility, evaluated in terms of recruitment, adherence, attrition and stakeholder acceptance of the programme. Secondary outcomes examined the effect of the exercise intervention on physical function and quality of life measures. ResultsForty patients (age 60 (SD 10.6) years; n = 12 breast cancer, n = 11 lung cancer, n = 7 prostate cancer, n = 5 colorectal cancer, n = 5 other) participated. In total 82% (n = 33) participants completed the post-programme assessment. Deterioration of health and concerns over COVID-19 were the most common reasons for dropout (both n = 2). Adherence to both the supervised exercise classes and home exercise programme was high (78% and 94% respectively). No adverse events were recorded during the intervention or assessments. Qualitative feedback from stakeholders highlighted the acceptability of the programme as well as many perceived benefits of the exercise programme. Improvements in three quality of life sub-scales (physical function, role function and emotional function), physical activity levels and aerobic fitness levels were found post-intervention. ConclusionIt appears feasible to offer a 10-week exercise programme to patients attending a national cancer centre, with adequate recruitment, retention and adherence rates and high acceptability among stakeholders. Contribution of the Paper•It appears feasible to integrate exercise, an established and effective treatment options for various side effects of cancer treatments, into the care of patients living with cancer.•Further trials investigating the implementation of exercise programmes into real-world, standard practice settings are needed.