Physiotherapy Treatment Research Articles

The Impact of Physiotherapy on the Developmental Progress of Preterm Infants Hospitalized in the Intensive Care Unit

Introduction: Every year, worldwide, 14.9 million babies are born prematurely. Therefore, these children are at greater risk of respiratory, cardiac, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Purpose: The purpose of the study was to investigate the effectiveness of physiotherapy intervention in premature newborns and whether the utilized techniques promote their normal development Patients: the study population consisted of 20 randomly selected neonates. The 20 neonates were randomly divided into two groups, the intervention group (Group A, 10 neonates) and the control group (Group B, 10 neonates). Methods: In the newborns of the intervention group (A), an intervention was carried out that focused on the correct positioning in a "nest" (imitation of intrauterine experience), on the changes of supine, prone, right, and left side positions, on the reduction or elimination of stress signs and passive mobilization in the supine position. Oxygen saturation (SpO2) and heart rate were continuously recorded, as well as neurodevelopmental assessment and recording of any feeding problems. weight gain, but also the length of stay of newborns in the hospital. Results: Oxygen saturation was clearly improved in premature neonates who followed respiratory physical therapy as well as improved (decreased) heart rate. Neurological examination in the neonates of the intervention group was normal and none showed feeding problems. It was also found that the newborns in the intervention group had a more stable rate of weight gain compared to the newborns in the control group. Conclusions: It is considered necessary to implement early intervention programs to prevent or minimize the negative effects of prematurity on the respiratory and neurodevelopmental development of newborns

Experiences of people with Long Covid with a digital physiotherapy intervention: A qualitative study.

Long Covid syndromeis a multiorgan condition with multiple sequelae affecting quality of life, capacity to workand daily activities. The advantages that new technologies can offer are presented as an opportunity in the current healthcare framework. This research aimed to explore people with Long Covid's experiences with a digital physiotherapy practice intervention, during four weeks. Qualitative semistructured interviews were conducted by video call. Thirty-twoLong Covid participants were invited to join an in-depth interviewonce the intervention was completed. Participants were queried on their intervention experiences and perceptions, as well as any lifestyle changes made, as a result of receiving digital physiotherapy practice. The interviews were transcribed and analysed using inductive qualitative content analysis. In-depth qualitative analysis has revealed four themes that reflect participants' perceptions ofdigitalphysiotherapy intervention. The helpfulness of the exercises, interaction with the physiotherapist, the domestic use of technologyand the future of digital health practice were the topics highlighted by Long Covid participants. Some improvements have been suggested including video sounds and the need to introduce face-to-face sessions. Participants stated that interventions were helpful and superior to printed exercise sheets, mobile phone appsand usual care received. This intervention did not present major barriers, highlighting the importance of personalized care and continuity in the provision of health services. The digital physiotherapy practice is perceived by people with Long Covid as an appropriate method for the care of their health needs. Participants stated the need for this type of intervention in the public health system, where it would eliminate waiting lists, facilitate accessibilityand improve existing care. Participants contributed to the interpretation of the data acquired in the interview. Trial registration NCT04742946.

Clinical Study of Analgesic and Anti-inflammatory Properties of Cannabis Derivatives in Patients with Temporomandibular Joint Pathology: Preliminary Study

We all know that the use of marijuana is a potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic and possible mechanisms of action and components that can help reduce the effects of pain in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Our study aimed to analyze the anti-inflammatory and analgesic characteristics of cannabis derivatives in patients with temporomandibular pathology. Thirty-six patients were divided into three groups: one was treated with Cannabidiol (CBD) cream, the second was treated with CBD Vaper, and the third was treated with conventional anti-inflammatories such as Ibuprofen 600 mg. All patients underwent a dental computed tomography scan at the beginning and another at the end of treatment 28 days later. In addition to the study treatment of Cannabis and anti-inflammatories, all patients received physiotherapy treatment on day 0, day 14, day 21, and day 28 of the study. The study’s results allow us to evaluate that using the CBD cream with physiotherapy results in a favorable pain reduction of 59%, CBD Vaper with physiotherapy has reduced pain by 35%, and the combined use of ibuprofen medication with physiotherapy has reduced pain by 45%. Therefore, using CBD and physiotherapy allows a biological reduction of pain and inflammation at TMJ. The most significant reduction in analgesia and pain occurred with CBD cream, followed by ibuprofen, which had less effect than CBD Vaper. We can control the pain of the TMJ with the use of CBD and treatment with the physiotherapist that allows us to maintain the dose and time of use of CBD both in cream and in Vaper; this improves the quality of life and returns the patient to cognitive relieving stress and anxiety.

Effectiveness of Nonpharmacological Measures on Improving Headache Score, Strength, Pain, and Quality of Life in Cervicogenic Headaches: A Systematic Review.

Cervicogenic headache (CGH) is a common condition affecting a significant portion of the population and is effectively managed through various interventions, including nonpharmacological approaches. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in CGH management, with numerous studies supporting its effectiveness. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of specific nonpharmacological physical therapy interventions for CGH. A comprehensive search was conducted across various databases (PubMed, Medline, PEDro, and Cochrane Library) for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published between January 2017 and January 2023 investigating the effectiveness of specific nonpharmacological physical therapy interventions for CGH. We employed manual searches to capture potentially missed studies. Independent reviewers screened all studies based on predefined eligibility criteria. Extracted data included methodology, specific interventions, outcome measures (headache score, strength, pain, and quality of life (QOL)), and study conclusions. Eight RCTs were identified as meeting all inclusion criteria and were thus included in the data synthesis. The findings from these trials revealed a diverse range of nonpharmacological physical therapy interventions, including but not limited to manual therapy, exercise therapy, and multimodal approaches. Specifically, the interventions demonstrated significant improvements in headache scores, strength, pain levels, and overall QOL among individuals with CGH. These results underscore the multifaceted benefits of physical therapy in managing CGH and highlight its potential as a comprehensive treatment option. This review identified eight relevant RCTs investigating nonpharmacological interventions for CGH. Despite the promising findings, this review acknowledges several limitations, including the limited sample size and the heterogeneity of interventions across studies. These limitations emphasize the necessity for further research to elucidate optimal intervention strategies and refine treatment protocols. Nevertheless, the comprehensive analysis presented herein reinforces the pivotal role of physical therapy in not only alleviating pain but also enhancing function and improving the QOL for individuals suffering from CGH.

EFEKTIVITAS KOMBINASI FISIOTERAPI DADA DAN SUCTION TERHADAP PENURUNAN PRODUKSI SPUTUM PADA PASIEN GAGAL NAFAS DI RUANG ICU RUMAH SAKIT SWASTA 2024: CASE REPORT

Respiratory failure is a failure in the gas exchange function between oxygen and carbon dioxide which can cause decreased consciousness. One of the complications of decreased consciousness that is often encountered is sputum retention. The intervention carried out was chest physiotherapy combined with suction. Based on a preliminary study, it was found that 24 (80%) experienced respiratory failure. To reduce sputum production in patients with respiratory failure with chest physiotherapy intervention combined with suction in the ICU of a private hospital. The research method used in this research is a case report by conducting intervention observations and also airway clearance research with 1 respondent. After chest physiotherapy combined with suction, the results showed an increase in oxygen saturation from 88% to 99% and sputum production decreased from ± 10 cc to ± 7 cc. After chest physiotherapy combined with suction for 3 days, significant results were obtained, namely an increase in oxygen saturation and also a decrease in sputum production. ICU nurses are expected to be able to apply chest physiotherapy combined with suction to reduce sputum production in patients with respiratory failure in the ICU by paying attention to vital signs. Intervention is carried out once a day.

Effects of increased physical therapy staffing in the neonatal intensive care unit on oral feeding maturation and neurodevelopment of extremely low birth weight infants

BackgroundIt remains a matter of debate as to what extent early intervention may facilitate long-term functional outcomes of preterm infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). We aimed to examine the effect of increasing physical therapy (PT) staff dedicated to the NICU on temporal changes (initiation, duration) of PT interventions and functional outcomes (acquisition of full oral feeding and Hammersmith Neonatal Neurological Examination). MethodsExtremely low birth weight infants, retrospectively collected from an academic medical center, were allocated to two subgroups, either a baseline period (N = 48) without NICU-dedicated PT staff (non-dedicated group) or a quality improvement period (N = 42) with additional dedicated staff (dedicated group). ResultsCompared to those in the non-dedicated group, NICU infants in the dedicated group started PT earlier and had increased PT treatment for additional 14 min per day when achieving full oral feeding. The infants in the dedicated group significantly achieved full oral feeding earlier than the non-dedicated group. As for Hammersmith Neonatal Neurological Examination, there were significant differences in two items (total and tone) between the groups. ConclusionsAdditional NICU-dedicated PT staff facilitated earlier intervention and increased PT treatment in terms of daily duration. Moreover, the dedication shortened the completion of full oral feeding and improved neurological development, presumably resulting in better developmental outcome.

The effectiveness of physical therapy intervention on the quality of life in obese children and adolescents

Introduction: Physical inactivity and a sedentary lifestyle are directly linked to childhood obesity. Bad eating habits and genetic predisposition are possible factors related to its appearance. Childhood obesity has tripled in the last 3 decades. More than 340 million children worldwide are categorized as overweight or obese Childhood obesity can affect the self-esteem of young obese individuals and lead to long-term serious psychological and social consequences. Purpose: The purpose of this bibliographical review is to highlight the physical therapy intervention in the quality of life in obese children and adolescents and its interaction with other therapeutic interventions. Methodology: The search was done in MEDLINE / Pubmed, Cochrane, Embase, Scopus Studies had to be clinical studies and refer to quality of life and the use of physical therapy in obese children and adolescents. Based on the above criteria, 18 articles emerged and after applying the selection criteria, 4 articles were selected. Discussion – Conclusion: Physical therapy with therapeutic exercise programs can be a key factor in improving the respiratory function and quality of life of people suffering from obesity. Physical therapists currently provide little input into the management of children who are overweight or obese, despite having a skill set appropriate for working with this population. Physiotherapy helps to support the mobility of obese children by increasing their physical health and quality of life. There is little detail about how to get obese children "physically active" in a way that is appropriate for their development and ability.

The effects of obesity in childhood and adolescence: The role of physiotherapy: Review of reviews

Introduction: Obesity remains a growing global issue with its prevalence in the developed world increasing fourfold in recent decades. Childhood may represent a critical window of opportunity for intervention and prevention of long-term consequences. While physiotherapy has the practical potential to contribute to the treatment of childhood obesity, its role remains unclear due to a lack of specific guidelines. Aim: The aim of this review is to explore the existing literature to delineate, identify and evaluate the role of physiotherapy in the management of childhood obesity Method: A review was conducted of existing literature in 4 databases, Pubmed. Embase, Cinahl, Medline. Results: Of the original 273 articles collected based on title and abstracts, 36 were included which were reviews. Of these, 23 were systematic reviews and 13 were literature reviews. The interventions involved quality-oriented physical activity and quantity-oriented physical activity as well as combined interventions involving different disciplines. The physical therapy interventions for children with obesity that appear to be significantly effective are: First, multi-component interventions involving environmental modification and family involvement and second, quantity-based physical activity interventions Conclusion: Physical therapy in the treatment of children with obesity can play an important role as part of a multidisciplinary team (doctors, psychologists, teachers, trainers and others), evaluating and developing exercise programs with the ultimate goal of increasing quantitative physical activity, a practice that seems to yield the best results. Future studies should examine the impact of different rehabilitation programs depending on the individual characteristics of the children (profile, size of the problem, presence of comorbidities).

Physical Therapies for Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness: A Protocol for an Umbrella and Mapping Systematic Review with Meta-Meta-Analysis.

Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), also known as exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD), is typically caused by strenuous and/or unaccustomed physical exercise. DOMS/EIMD manifests itself in reduced muscle strength and performance levels, increased muscle soreness, swelling, and elevated levels of inflammatory biomarkers. Numerous randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews (SRs) of a wide variety of physiotherapy interventions for reducing the signs and symptoms of DOMS/EIMD have been published. However, these SRs often arrive at contradictory conclusions, impeding decision-making processes. We will systematically review the current evidence on clinical outcomes (efficacy, safety) of physiotherapy interventions for the treatment of DOMS/EIMD in healthy adults. We will also assess the quality of the evidence and identify, map, and summarise data from the available SRs. Umbrella review with evidence map and meta-meta-analyses. MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Epistemonikos and PEDro will be searched from January 1998 until February 2024. SRs of RCTs of any treatment used by physiotherapists (e.g., low-level laser therapy, electrical stimulation, heat/cold therapy, ultrasound, magnets, massage, manual therapies) to treat DOMS/EIMD in healthy adults will be eligible. Narrative/non-systematic reviews, studies of adolescents/children and medically compromised individuals, of complementary therapies, dietary, nutritional, or pharmacological interventions, as well as self-administered interventions, or those published before 1998, will be excluded. AMSTAR 2 will be used to evaluate the methodological quality of the included SRs. Corrected covered area, will be computed for assessing overlaps among included SRs, and an evidence map will be prepared to describe the credibility of evidence for interventions analysed in the relevant SRs. DOMS/EIMD is a complex condition, and there is no consensus regarding the standard of clinical/physiotherapeutic care. By critically evaluating the existing evidence, we aim to inform clinicians about the most promising therapies for DOMS/EIMD. This umbrella review has the potential to identify gaps in the existing evidence base that would inform future research. The protocol has been registered at PROSPERO (CRD42024485501].

Physical therapy for injuries of the temporomandibular joint

injuries of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pose significant challenges to patients' well-being and require comprehensive treatment strategies. Physical therapy has emerged as a vital component in the management of TMJ injuries, with its efficacy increasingly recognized in clinical practice. This review provides a thorough summarize of physical therapy interventions for TMJ injuries, focusing on their role in restoring joint function and improving patient outcomes. Additionally, this review explores emerging trends and future directions in TMJ physical therapy, including advancements in technology and novel treatment modalities. Through a synthesis of current research and clinical evidence, the review explores various physical therapy modalities, including exercises, manual therapy techniques, and patient education programs. Additionally, the review discusses the mechanisms of action underlying physical therapy interventions and their impact on TMJ mobility, pain reduction, and overall quality of life. The relevance of physical therapy in the multidisciplinary approach to TMJ injury management is emphasized, highlighting its potential to complement other treatment modalities such as pharmacotherapy and surgical interventions. Furthermore, the review addresses considerations for optimizing physical therapy protocols, including patient selection, treatment duration, and therapist expertise. Overall, this review underscores the importance of physical therapy in the comprehensive care of TMJ injuries and provides insights into its implementation for clinicians and researchers alike. Considerations for patient-centered care and shared decision-making are also addressed, recognizing the importance of individualized treatment plans tailored to patient preferences and goals. By providing a comprehensive overview of physical therapy for TMJ injuries, this review aims to inform clinicians, researchers, and policymakers about the evolving landscape of TMJ management and promote evidence-based practice for improved patient outcomes and quality of life.

The role and function of body communication in physiotherapy practice: A qualitative thematic synthesis

Communication is essential to physiotherapy practice. While verbal communication has been a primary focus in research, less is known about body communication. Body communication refers to communication achieved by means other than words, such as touch, eye contact, prosody, and proxemics. This review aims to provide detailed knowledge of the roles and functions of body communication in physiotherapy practice and identify areas for future research. We undertook a systematic search and thematic synthesis of published qualitative literature in October 2022. Four databases were searched with results screened to identify articles providing insight into the roles and functions of body communication. Quality appraisal of included studies was completed. Thematic synthesis was used to generate findings. Thirty-three studies met the inclusion criteria. Four themes were constructed to reflect the roles and functions of body communication in physiotherapy practice: conveying the physiotherapist’s attention and interest; enabling patients to contribute to care; guiding physiotherapy intervention through bodily dialogue; and building the therapeutic relationship. The findings demonstrate how body communication shapes the therapeutic process and how sensitive and responsive body communication supports a more reciprocal and person-centred approach to care. Research is needed to obtain more in-depth and nuanced accounts of body communication to support the clinical application of findings.

Injury Occurrence and Localization in Tennis: Perspectives on Prevention and Physiotherapy

Injuries happens in sports involving human movement, with the heightened demands of the sport often correlating with increased injury risk. Tennis, in particular, presents notable challenges as the repetitive motions involved can lead to muscle imbalances and varying levels of strain across different parts of the body. In this narrative literature review, we included 66 studies with the aim of providing a comprehensive overview of tennis-related injuries and offering insights into physiotherapy interventions for prevention and recovery. The first part of our review is on the most prevalent tennis injuries and their anatomical localization. It is noteworthy that injuries predominantly occur during matches rather than in training sessions. These injuries span a wide range, encompassing both acute and chronic conditions, affecting various parts of the body. Notably, muscle-tendon injuries are common, with frequent occurrences in areas such as the thigh, ankle, knee, and shoulder. Furthermore, it is observed that men suffer from back injuries compared to women. In the subsequent section, we delve into specific body regions and their associated injuries in greater detail. Our analysis leads to the recommendation that tennis players should engage with physiotherapists early in their sports careers for injury recovery and mainly for prevention measures. Collaboration with physiotherapists can significantly mitigate the risk of injuries and enhance overall performance and longevity in the sport.

Cognizance and perception of physiotherapy intervention in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder amongst clinical physiotherapy students in tertiary institution, Nigeria

BackgroundThis study examines the cognizance and perception of physiotherapy intervention in ADHD amongst clinical physiotherapy students in a tertiary institution and, also, determines the relationship of the study variables on the socio-demographic characteristics.MethodsThis study is a cross-sectional survey and employed a convenient sampling technique to recruit 137 respondents. A cognizance and perception questionnaire was used as the survey instrument to obtain data. Descriptive statistics of frequency, mean, and standard deviation were used to analyse the socio-demographic characteristics. Spearman rank correlation was used to analyse the relationship amongst the variables of cognizance of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (COG-ADHD), perception of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (PERCEP-ADHD), cognizance of physiotherapy intervention (COG-PT_ITV), and perception of physiotherapy intervention (PERCEP-PT_ITV). The Mann-Whitney U test was used to test the influence of socio-demographic characteristics of age and the level of study on the cognizance and perception of ADHD. Variables having a p-value < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.ResultThe majority of the respondents (63.5%) had high cognizance of physiotherapy intervention for ADHD, while the majority of the respondents (60.6%) had a fair perception of physiotherapy intervention for ADHD. A significant proportion of respondents (26.3%) had no source of information on ADHD before the study. Cognizance of ADHD significantly correlated with perception of ADHD, ADHD, perception of physiotherapy intervention in ADHD, and cognizance of physiotherapy intervention in ADHD. There were significant positive correlations between gender and cognizance of physiotherapy intervention in ADHD and between the level of study and perception of ADHD.ConclusionRespondent’s perception of physiotherapy intervention in ADHD was relatively low; in contrast, their cognizance was relatively satisfactory. Strengthening their cognizance and perception is paramount.

What are the effects of aquatic physiotherapy exercises on speed and complex gait-related activities in individuals with Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a central nervous system disease that results in deficits in motor activities such as walking. Gait speed and step length are frequently reduced. Aquatic physiotherapy serves as a form of complementary treatment to promote improvements in the disease's motor symptoms. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of an aquatic physiotherapy training program on gait in individuals with PD. This is an interventional clinical study in which a group of participants with PD participated in an assessment on the ground of their usual and maximum gait speed using the 10-m Walk Test and complex activities related to gait using the Dynamic Gait Index (DGI) at baseline and 12 weeks of an aquatic physiotherapy intervention, twice a week for 50 min. For statistical analysis, the paired t-test and the Wilcoxon test were used. The study included 10 individuals with PD, in the intermediate stage of PD - H&Y 2 (60%) and 3 (40%), of both sexes with a mean age of 65.8 ± 13.69 years. There was a significant increase in usual gait speed (p = 0.001) and in the DGI score (p = 0.05), but there was no improvement in maximum gait speed (p = 0.119). The aquatic physiotherapy exercise program improved habitual gait speed and the performance of complex activities related to gait in this group individuals with PD.

Development of Physiotherapy Standard Operating Procedures Case of Ankle Sprain in Basketball Players

Physiotherapy is a form of health service aimed at individuals and groups as maintaining and restoring body movement functions throughout life. Ankle Sprain is a stretching or tearing that occurs due to (overstretch) trauma to the lateral ligament complex, due to inversion and plantar flexion movements that occur excessively when the foot is unable to provide perfect support on the floor/ground. A common injury to the ankle is Ankle Sprain, a sports injury that often occurs in volleyball and basketball players. To develop Standard Operating Procedures in performing physiotherapy treatment in chronic Ankle Sprain cases. This study was conducted using the research method of developing physiotherapy operational standards with this ankle sprain injury handling model starting with preliminary studies, history taking, assessment, diagnosis, intervention, and evaluation. The type of research conducted is Quantitative research using quasi experimental methods with pretest-posttest control group design. Experimental and control groups conducted an initial test. Both groups received different treatments, where the experimental group received thrust manipulation intervention and the control group received non thrust intervention in the form of myofascial release. There was a significant reduction in pain after manipulation therapy with the thrust and nonthrust methods on two groups were measured using the Numeric Rating Scale and after being evaluated for two weeks the pain did not increase. The provision of thrust and nonthrust manipulation therapy measures is highly recommended for the treatment of ankle pain. However, between the two methods there has not been. However, there is no significant difference between the two methods given the limited time of the study.

Physiotherapeutic Intervention Techniques for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review.

Globally, knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is the leading cause of disability. The most prevalent complaints associated with KOA are knee pain, joint stiffness, and weakness in the muscles of the lower limbs. These symptoms impede movement and result in functional limitations. As a result, people with KOA have a lower quality of life. For all patient groups with knee OA, an effective rehabilitation program focuses on improving knee range of motion, isometric quadriceps strength, and productivity level while reducing discomfort. The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) categorization criteria for KOA, research on KOA physiotherapy, and reviews covering various physical therapy interventions, including exercise, physical modalities, and patient education, were used to narrow down the pool of 180 systematic reviews to 15 articles. Google Scholar, PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and EMBASE were the databases that were used. The following keyword combinations were included in our search: KOA and physiotherapy or interventions or exercises, strengthening and stretching, concentric and eccentric training. Through our analysis, we identified a few methods that, in addition to standard therapy, could be used in clinical settings for people with osteoarthritis in the knee. It has been shown that Mulligan, Pilates, Kinesiotaping, Aquatic Therapy, and other current therapies are effective. The study employed a broad range of results. This review concludes that rather than relying solely on conventional therapy, it is preferable to combine a number of the most current physiotherapy techniques with it.

Effect of the Myofascial Release Technique on the Paraspinal Muscles Stiffness of Lumbar Region: A Case Study

Muscle stiffness refers to a sensation of muscle tightness makes it challenging to move.Muscle stiffness may occur after overuse of a particular muscle.Multifidus to be 1.5 times stiffer than Erector spinae in the Lumbar region the accurate modulation of lumbar erector spinae muscle stiffness is unclear but while adopted the different sitting and upright standing posture.The main purpose of this case study is to explore physiotherapy interventions for a subject with Lumbar region stiffness.Myofascial Release and Cryotherapy (supplimentry)for the improvement of the Range of motion and to increase flexibility which are restricted by stiffness.A38 years old woman had whole Lumbar region limited ROM and had difficulty to perform ADLs .She is unable to do forward bending and standing position.Investigations and Special test of Lumbar confirms the diagnose of stiffness of Paraspinal muscles of Lumbar region . Total 21days Physiotherapy session with precautions given to the subject in which we provide the Soft tissue mobilization and Myofascial Release Technique for relieving the stiffness.we also include supplimentry that is Cryotherapy for reducing the soreness comes after the MFR.The following 21days Physiotherapy management protocol improved the Range of motion of the subject and relieve in the stiffness in the Lumbar region, subject was able to perform the ADLs with minimal discomfort.we gave some instructions to subject to perform home exercise independently.This case report is consistent with recent studies and on the base of the result that demonstrate Myofascial Release Technique with supplimentry Cryotherapy are singnificant effective for people with stiffness in Lumbar region.After completing the management protocol, their marked improvement in the ROM and Flexibility.

Aquatic Exercise in Physical Therapy Treatment for Fibromyalgia: Systematic Review.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by musculoskeletal pain. The aim of this study was to synthesize scientific evidence on the effects of aquatic exercise programs on pain and quality of life in individuals with fibromyalgia. This review was carried out using the following databases in January 2024: Cochrane Library, PEDro, PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science. Four clinical trials focusing on aquatic exercise as a treatment for patients with fibromyalgia were selected. These trials were published in English between 2019 and 2024. Pain recorded using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and quality of life with the Short Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36) or Fibromyalgia Impact on Quality of Life (FIQ) were the most commonly analyzed variables. This review was carried out according to the PRISMA statement and was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024510219). The results in terms of pain and quality of life were positive. In conclusion, these findings support the incorporation of aquatic exercise into fibromyalgia physical therapy treatment. However, the benefits could be equivalent to those of other exercise modalities, underscoring the need for individualized adaptation to each patient's needs.

Trends in Physiotherapy Interventions and Medical Costs for Parkinson's Disease in South Korea, 2011-2020.

Physiotherapy (PT), which is an effective strategy for managing Parkinson's disease (PD), can influence health care utilization. We analyzed trends in health care utilization, PT interventions, and medical costs among patients with PD. Using data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service from 2011 to 2020, we analyzed the number of patients with PD and their health care utilization and assessed the odds ratio (OR) for receiving regular PTs. Over 10 years, 169,613 patients with PD were included in the analysis. The number of patients with PD increased annually from 49,417 in 2011 to 91,841 in 2020. The number of patients with PD receiving PT increased from 4,847 (9.81%) in 2011 to 13,163 (14.33%) in 2020, and the number of PT prescriptions increased from 81,220 in 2011 to 377,651 in 2019. Medical costs per patient with PD increased from 1,686 United States dollars (USD) in 2011 to 3,202 USD in 2020. The medical expenses for each patient with PD receiving PT increased from 6,582 USD in 2011 to 13,475 USD in 2020. Moreover, regular PTs were administered to 31,782 patients (18.74%) and were administered only through hospitalization. Those patients in their 50s with disabilities demonstrated a high OR for regular PTs, whereas those aged 80 years or older and residing outside of Seoul had a low OR. The PD burden increased in South Korea between 2011 and 2020, as did health care utilization and medical costs. A significant increase in medical expenses can be associated with increased PD incidence and PT interventions. Regular PT applications remain restricted and have barriers to access.

Artificial Intelligence in Enhancing Physiotherapy Treatment: Brief Review

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionized various aspects of society, mirroring the transformative impact of the steam engine on human socio-economic systems. AI technologies enable the recognition of intricate patterns within vast datasets, profoundly influencing fields such as social, economic, educational, medical, legal, and moral systems. This paradigm shift may arguably surpass the impact of the mechanical revolution brought about by the steam engine. Looking ahead, healthcare professionals, including physiotherapists are poised to leverage AI within expansive information networks to enhance patient care. This article explores the profound implications of AI on physiotherapy practice, highlighting the imperative for evolving Physiotherapy education to prepare professionals for the complexities of 21st-century healthcare. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Patient Care, Physiotherapy