Physiotherapy Rehabilitation Research Articles

The global clinical studies of long COVID

People with long COVID are those who still have symptoms, signs, and conditions after the initial phase of infection of SARS-CoV-2. The incidence of long COVID varies among regions—31% in North America, 44% in Europe, and 51% in Asia, which is challenging the healthcare system, but there is limited guidelines for its treatment. With more and more nationwide projects funded by the government such as the RECOVER initiative in the United States and National Institute for Health Research funding in the United Kingdom, an increasing number of ongoing clinical trials are investigating the efficacy of diverse therapies on reversing long COVID. After searching the World Health Organization International Clinical Trial Registry Platform, 587 clinical studies are identified as long COVID studies. Among these, 312 studies (53.2%) are testing potential therapies. Most of the long COVID trials were conducted in the United States (58 trials [18.6%]), followed by India (55 trials [17.6%]), and Spain (20 trials [6.4%]). Interventions in these clinical trials include physical exercise, rehabilitation therapy, behavioral therapy, and pharmacological therapies including herbs, paxlovid, and fluvoxamine. These trials are aiming to deal with these long COVID symptoms and signs including fatigue, decreased pulmonary function, reduced cognitive function, and others. To date, only 11 of these 312 studies have published their results that were not confirmative, unfortunately. Future studies should be designed to address sleep disorders which were seldomly included in registered clinical studies. Moreover, interventions aimed at treating the underlying pathophysiology of long COVID are also necessary but currently lacking.

Allied health assistant management of people with hip fracture is feasible and may improve patient adherence to hip fracture mobilisation guidelines: a feasibility randomised controlled trial

ObjectivesDetermine the feasibility of allied health assistant (AHA) management of people with hip fracture an acute hospital. DesignAssessor-blind, parallel, feasibility randomised controlled trial with qualitative component. SettingAcute orthopaedic ward. ParticipantsPeople with surgically-managed hip fracture, who walked independently pre-fracture and had no cognitive impairment. InterventionsRehabilitation from an AHA, under the supervision of a physiotherapist, compared with rehabilitation from a physiotherapist. Main outcome measuresFeasibility was evaluated according to focus areas of demand, acceptability, practicality and implementation. Secondary outcomes included estimates of effect of adherence to hip fracture mobilisation guidelines, discharge destination, 30-day readmission, functional activity, and length of stay. ResultsFifty people were allocated to receive rehabilitation from an AHA (n = 25) or physiotherapist (n = 25). AHA rehabilitation had high demand with 60% of eligible participants recruited. Satisfaction with AHA rehabilitation was comparable with physiotherapy rehabilitation (acceptability). The AHA group received an average of 11 min (95% CI 4 to 19) more therapy per day than the physiotherapy group (implementation). The AHA group may have had lower cost of acute care (MD -$3 808 95% CI −7 651 to 35) and adverse events were comparable between groups (practicality). The AHA group may have been 22% (HR 1.22, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.61) more likely to walk on any day and may have had a shorter length of stay (MD −0.8 days, 95% CI −2.3 to 0.7). ConclusionsAHA management of patients with hip fracture was feasible and may improve adherence to mobilisation guidelines and reduce cost of care and length of stay. Clinical Trial Registration NumberACTRN12620000877987. Contribution of the paper•It is feasible for allied health assistants, under the supervision of a physiotherapist, to manage the acute care of people with hip fracture who walked independently pre-fracture and had no cognitive impairment.•Delegating acute management of people with hip fracture to allied health assistants may improve adherence to hip fracture mobilisation guidelines and reduce length of stay and cost of acute care, however, further trials are needed to confirm these effects.

Balance confidence and associated factors among patients with knee osteoarthritis

IntroductionKnee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a progressive condition that results in decreased mobility, self-imposed restriction of activity, and impaired functions such as loss of self-efficacy, fear of falling, and balance impairments. This study assessed balance confidence and associated factors among patients with KOA. MethodsThis cross-sectional study involved 115 patients with KOA. The Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index was used to evaluate pain, stiffness, and physical function while the Activity Specific Balance Confidence scale was used to assess the balance confidence. Pearson's chi-square test, Pearson's correlation and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient determined the association between variables. ResultsGreater number [67(58.3%)] of the participants had low levels of functioning in balance confidence. Significant associations were observed between balance confidence and pattern of KOA (X2 = 7.08, p = 0.029, φc = 0.248), fear of fall (X2 = 38.32, p = 0.001, φc = 0.577) and history of fall (X2 = 11.49, p = 0.003, φc = 0.316). Significant negative correlations were observed between balance confidence and pain (r = −0.498, p = 0.001), stiffness (r = −0.564, p = 0.01) and physical function (r = −0.676, p = 0.001). ConclusionThe low levels of balance confidence and related factors are a cause for concern and highlight the need to assess and monitor balance confidence in KOA rehabilitation using balance confidence ratings. This could prompt the integration of physical therapy rehabilitation programs that target balance confidence and related factors to improve mobility, quality of life and outcome of rehabilitation.

The effect of six weeks of therapeutic exercises and kinesio tape (KT) in reducing pain and increasing flexibility and muscle strength for people with low back pain

Objective: This study aims to prepare therapeutic exercises that enhance the strength and elongation of ligaments and dorsal muscles, assess the impact of therapeutic exercises and Kinesio tapes (KT) in alleviating lower back pain, and evaluate the effect of therapeutic exercises and Kinesio tapes (KT) in improving flexibility and muscle strength in individuals suffering from lower back pain. Method: A sample of (6) injured, from Al-Kut club, (age = 30 ± 4.29 years, height = 176.6 ± 3.87 cm, mass 75.6 ± 2.71 kg) participated in the study. The participants in the experimental group (n=10) completed pre-tests and post-tests. Results: The results of the experimental sample show that there was a significant improvement in the mean scores for Muscular strength on the post-test compared to the pre-test. The mean score for pain decreased from (6.02 to 1.25, p<0.005), the mean score for the Torso force increased (flexion) from (16.17 to 51.833, (extension) 16.83 to 52.67, p<0.005), and the mean score for torso flexibility increased from (1.18 to 5.53, p<0.005). Conclusion: A significant finding of the study is that the therapeutic exercises employed effectively enhanced the flexibility of the torso while simultaneously restoring muscle strength. This confirms the efficacy of therapeutic exercises. Additionally, the use of Kinesio tapes appears to have a positive impact on reducing pain levels in the participants of the study

Case Report: An Elusive Case of Septic Arthritis

Septic arthritis is a serious inflammatory infectious state of the joint secondary to microbial infection. In the pediatric population the most common route of infection is haematogenous spread. Less than fifty percent of patients with septic arthritis will yield positive culture results with a mortality rate of up to 42% in some cases. Due to the challenge in obtaining culture and identification of the causative organism the management of septic arthritis has been more of empirical in nature with the chosen antibiotic synchronized with the epidemiological data. Here is a case of a 14 months old female patient presenting at our hospital with a left knee and lower thigh swelling for three days with failure to bare weight on the limb. In addition, she had fever and diarrhea for three days. Upon evaluation clinical, laboratory and radiological findings supported septic arthritis expect for her blood, pus and synovial fluid culture of which all came back negative. She had poor response to intravenous ceftriaxone, gentamycin, metronidazole, ampicillin- cloxacillin and amoxicillin clavunate. Over the course of therapy, she developed septic shock, severe anemia and acute liver failure and was admitted to the intensive care unit. Afterwards she was initiated vancomycin and developed a hypersensitivity reaction with generalized edema which prompted cessation of the drug. Due to her critical state and poor response a triple therapy regimen composing of meropenem, ciprofloxacin and metronidazole was selected and maintained for three weeks followed by an oral clindamycin course for another three weeks of which she responded. In addition, surgical debridement arthrotomy, irrigation and drainage were done. Physiotherapy for rehabilitation is ongoing with patient recovering well.

Case Report: A comprehensive rehabilitation protocol in a post-operative case of ASD closure along with PAPVC

An array of congenital cardiac disorders known as partial anomalous pulmonary venous connections (PAPVC) occur when pulmonary veins, abnormally drain into the right atrium. This can happen directly into the right atrium or via draining into systemic veins. A 10 year old female patient had chief complaints of difficulty in breathing and frequent fever hence she visited rural hospital where 2D echo was done which reviled PAPVC associated with 16 mm ASD (Atrial Septal Defect). She underwent ASD closure along with pulmonary valvotomy as a part of surgical management after which a well-planned cardiac rehabilitation has been ingrained through several breathing methods such as breathing exercises, respiratory muscle strength and home exercise program, helping the patient to carry out her activities of daily living. The Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Respiratory Muscle Strength using MicroRPM device, 6 Minute Walk Distance (MWD), Borg Scale and Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). In this present instance, carefully thought-out physical therapy rehabilitation has been shown to be successful in enhancing functional capacity, respiratory muscle strength, optimizing functional capacity, and lowering fatigue.

DESCRIPTIVE STUDY ON MUSCULAR STRENGTH TESTING AND GAIT ASSESSMENTS IN PATIENTS WITH COVID-19 IN THE HYPERACUTE WARD

The early intervention of physiotherapy applied in the rehabilitative treatment of patients presenting mild and moderate symptoms of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, in hyperacute and acute wards, becomes necessary to enhance the efficiency of multidisciplinary treatment. The presented study was conducted on a total of 80 subjects divided into an experimental and a control group, over a staged period of 8 months during the years 2021-2022. Investigations highlighted the fact that the specific involvement of rehabilitative physiotherapy in these types of patients, differential aspects, from the perspective of musculoskeletal functional recovery, being correlated, with the optimization of respiratory functions. Prompt activity of the physiotherapist through the development of personalized programs according to the pathological state of the subjects resulted in the improvement of basic motor functions as well as coordinative capacities, especially of the locomotor system. Keywords: Physiotherapeutic assessment, muscular strength, gait testing, COVID-19, intensive care.

The effect of physical therapy rehabilitation on fatigue and pain in female patients with fibromyalgia

This study aimed to examine the impact of physical therapy rehabilitation program on fatigue, pain and quality of life in female patients with fibromyalgia. It was designed as a single-blinded, randomized, pre and post-test controlled trial. Eighty female patients, aged 25 to 45, diagnosed with fibromyalgia were selected from the Kasr Al Ainy rheumatology outpatient clinic. The participants were allocated into two equal groups using a randomization procedure. Group (A) (control group, n=40) received transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS), moist heat, core muscle retraining, and manual therapy for trigger points, 3 times/week, for 4 weeks. Group (B) (study group, n=40) received the same treatments as Group A, plus aerobic exercises, flexibility exercises, and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), 3 times/week, for 4 weeks. Both groups were assessed before and after treatment using the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) and the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ). Statistically significant improvements were observed in FSS and FIQ scores for both groups post-treatment (p<0.05). When the two groups were compared after therapy, the study group (B) showed significantly greater improvement in FSS and FIQ (p<0.05). These findings suggest that physical therapy rehabilitation can effectively reduce fatigue, pain, and improve the quality of life for women with fibromyalgia.

Effects of Neuropilates on Functional Outcomes in Chronic Stroke: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Neuropilates is an intervention approach that was developed as a modified version of the Pilates Method to be used for neurological rehabilitation. The main objective of this study was to analyze the effectiveness of regular physiotherapy and occupational therapy rehabilitation in comparison to a combination of traditional rehabilitation with Neuropilates in adults with post-stroke motor disabilities. This was a rater- and analyst-blinded randomized clinical trial with a three-month intervention and a one-month follow up. Participants were randomly allocated to either the experimental group (EG, receiving a combination of conventional therapy and Neuropilates; n = 15) or the control group (CG, receiving solely conventional therapy; n = 15). Once adjusted for baseline FIM scores, the results showed significant differences favoring the EG in daily functioning (FIM), static balance (FRT), right-hand manual dexterity (NHPT) and right-upper limb coordination (BBT). Satisfaction with the received treatment as measured with the CSQ-8 was significantly higher for the EG. In conclusion, the incorporation of Neuropilates, facilitated by a single experienced therapist, can be a valuable complement to conventional physical and occupational therapy. However, Neuropilates-based interventions should be supervised and tailored to each individual by a professional specifically trained in the method.

Effect of Inpatient Pulmonary Rehabilitation on Pulmonary Outcomes in Individuals With COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Purpose: Guidelines advocate the use of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) in individuals with COVID-19. However, there is a lack of concrete information on inpatient PR. Therefore, we synthesized literature on the efficacy of inpatient PR on pulmonary outcomes in individuals with COVID-19. Methods: Using PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Embase, three researchers screened 474 articles for eligibility with the search terms: (covid-19 or coronavirus or 2019-ncov or sars-cov-2 or cov-19 *) AND (respiratory or pulmonary) AND (physical therapy or physiotherapy or rehabilitation). The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses was used. Nine articles were finalized using the inclusion criteria: diagnosis of COVID-19, age >18 years and inpatient PR. Reviewers extracted relevant information and appraised using the Robins-I tool and the Newcastle Ottawa Scale. Results: The pooled sample consisted of 718 participants (F = 35.2%, age = 36-71 y). Study quality for non-randomized trial was moderate, while cohort studies had a mean score of 7/9. The pooled estimate showed that inpatient PR could improve the exercise capacity with clinical importance for individuals with COVID-19. Within group changes were noted in FEV1 and FVC values (n = 4) and HR-QoL (n = 3). Inpatient PR was reported to be safe (n = 4). Conclusions: Current review suggests that inpatient PR was safe, feasible and induced large improvements in exercise capacity in individuals with COVID-19. Given the high heterogeneity, sample sizes and quality of designs of the included studies, findings should be interpreted with caution. Our study provides valuable evidence that inpatient PR is safe and may accelerate improvement in exercise capacity in individuals with COVID-19.

Perancangan Ruang Fisioterapi dan Rehabilitasi Stroke dengan Konsep Arsitektur Rustic

An architectural approach is a method that can accommodate various societal issues. Such an approach takes into consideration these problems to resolve them architecturally. In the modern era, there are various approaches that can be implemented according to the issues at hand, including those for improving healthcare facilities, especially in densely populated areas. The healthcare facilities catering to stroke rehabilitation, particularly in Balikpapan city, are still insufficient considering the city's population, which reaches hundreds of thousands of people. In this study, the researcher examines the application of rustic architecture approach to address the needs of healthcare facilities in the study area. The research not only focuses on the rehabilitation spaces but also on the physiotherapist's residence. Literature review, data collection, analysis, and design processes have been conducted to produce design options for the rustic architectural approach for physiotherapy residential and rehabilitation workspace specifically for stroke healthcare facilities. The findings of this research serve as foundational study to aid stakeholders in formulating designs for healthcare facilities, particularly for stroke rehabilitation

Lateropulsion resolution and outcomes up to one year post-stroke: a prospective, longitudinal cohort study

ABSTRACT Background Post-stroke lateropulsion is prevalent and associated with poor rehabilitation outcomes; however, data regarding long-term function associated with lateropulsion are lacking. Objectives This study aimed to explore lateropulsion resolution and associations between lateropulsion, functional outcomes, and fall occurrence up to 12 months post-stroke. Methods Participants for this prospective, longitudinal cohort study were recruited from a Stroke Rehabilitation Unit (SRU). Assessments were conducted at SRU admission, at discharge, and at three, six, nine, and twelve months post-stroke. Outcomes included the Four-Point Pusher Score (4PPS), Functional Independence Measure (FIM), and fall occurrence. Longitudinal outcomes were modeled using generalized linear mixed-effects models. Results The final analyses included data from 144 participants. Eighty-two participants (56.9) had lateropulsion (4PPS ≥ 1) on admission. Odds of resolved lateropulsion (4PPS = 0) increased longitudinally from discharge for people who participated in rehabilitation physiotherapy (OR: 9.7, 28.1, 43.1, 81.3: <0.001 at three, six, nine, and twelve months respectively). The greatest FIM improvement among participants in all 4PPS categories occurred during the SRU inpatient phase. The probability of falls post-discharge was greatest among participants with 4PPS = 1 at three months, when compared with 4PPS = 0 (p= 0.022). Conclusions This study showed that lateropulsion can continue to resolve up to one year post-stroke. Earlier lateropulsion resolution was associated with ongoing rehabilitation physiotherapy participation. Long-term functional gains were maintained among people discharged home, whereas functional status deteriorated after six months among those in residential care. Study findings will allow rehabilitation and service providers to better plan for and accommodate the long-term rehabilitation and care needs of people with post-stroke lateropulsion.

Patient Preferences and Their Effects on Rehabilitation Outcomes: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of aligning patients' preferences with specific rehabilitation delivery modes on rehabilitation outcomes. DESIGN: A secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial. METHODS: The study cohort comprised 208 patients referred for physiotherapy rehabilitation after nonsurgical or surgical interventions for rotator cuff injury, shoulder impingement, or acromioclavicular osteoarthritis. Participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 rehabilitation modalities: (1) group-based exercise, (2) individual exercise, or (3) home exercise. In this study, participants were categorized into 2 groups: "matched preference" and "unmatched preference." The primary outcome measure was change in function, measured with the shortened Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH). Secondary outcome measures were change in pain, assessed using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), mental well-being measured with the World Health Organization Five Well-Being Index (WHO-5), health-related quality of life assessed using the EuroQol-5 Domain questionnaire (EQ-5D), fear avoidance assessed using the Örebro Musculoskeletal Pain Questionnaire (ÖMPQ), and overall treatment satisfaction. Outcomes were assessed at 3 and 6 months. RESULTS: The primary outcome measure, QuickDASH, showed no significant differences between groups at either 3 months (-3.0 [-8.2 to 2.3]) or 6 months (0.5 [-5.7 to 6.7]). Additionally, no significant differences were observed in the secondary outcome measures. CONCLUSION: Matching patients' preferences for specific rehabilitation delivery modes did not seem to effect rehabilitation outcomes. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2024;54(6):1-9. Epub 26 March 2024. doi:10.2519/jospt.2024.12314.

Моделирование влияния рекомендаций на приток пациентов в сеть клиник

The work deals with mathematical modeling of referral activities of the consumers who have received experience of physical therapy rehabilitation (PTR). The relevance of the work is determined by the importance of the development of rehabilitation activities and the creation of a network of treatment centers of walking distance. A mathematical model of the influence of referral feedback on the flows of customers entering treatment has been developed, as well as the estimates of the growth in the number of patients have been carried out. The main groups of patients influencing the number of patients undergoing treatment (Y) are: those continuing treatment (A), those recovered (B), those dissatisfied with treatment (C) and those choosing another method of restoring health (D). The main factor characterizing the flow of patients to the clinic is the “recommendation parameter” – R, which depends on eight coefficients characterizing the recommendation process. The differential equation of the flow of patients to the clinic, depending on time T, is dY/dT = H – YR, where H is the flow of patients under the influence of promotion. The analytical solution of this equation is expressed by the formula Y = HR(1 – Exp(-T/R)). The maximum number of patients is directly proportional to the promotion effect (H) and the recommendation parameter (R). The main factors affecting the value of the recommendation parameter are the proportion of patients who continue treatment (a) and the recommendation influence coefficient of these patients KA. As the number of clinic customers grows, promotion activity can be reduced without a significant drop in customer flow. The results can be used to intensify recommendation activity in the service sector.

Physiotherapy for Alzheimer’s Disease: A Case Report

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological condition characterized by brain changes resulting in the accumulation of specific proteins, leading to brain shrinkage and eventual cell death. It is the primary cause of dementia, resulting in a gradual decline in memory, cognition, behaviour, and social skills, impairing overall functionality. The case study involves an 84-year-old woman displaying symptoms of Alzheimer's disease requiring physiotherapy rehabilitation. Assessment reveals joint pain, abnormal gait, respiratory issues due to pneumonia, reduced balance and cognitive function, concentration difficulties, impaired decision-making, fluctuating moods, and behavioural issues such as depression and aggression. Physical examination shows shoulder shrugging and slight tension in the upper trapezius muscle. The rehabilitation program involves various interventions like stretching, strengthening, aerobic exercises, breathing exercises, lung clearance techniques, active range of motion exercises, postural control, and gait training. The role of the physiotherapist is to address the both physical and cognitive decline and improve mood and behaviour.

EFFECT OF MUSCLE ENERGY TECHNIQUE AND MUSCLE STIMULATOR FOR POST COLLES FRACTURE PATIENT: A CASE REPORT

ABSTRACT Objective: This case study aims to assess the efficacy of Muscle Energy Technique (MET) and Muscle Stimulator (MS) in managing post-Colles fracture complications. Methods: A systematic review of literature published between 2008 and 2023 was conducted utilizing PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. The study focused on investigating the effects of MET and MS in post-Colles fracture rehabilitation. Results: The review revealed significant evidence demonstrating the positive impact of MET and MS on improving the health outcomes of individuals suffering from complications following Colles fractures. Various publications, including systematic reviews, randomized control trials, and case studies, highlighted the benefits of these interventions in reducing post-fracture complications. Conclusion: The findings suggest that MET and MS can effectively enhance range of motion, increase muscle strength, and alleviate complications associated with post-Colles fractures. Implementing these modalities as part of a comprehensive treatment protocol can help mitigate stiffness and improve overall rehabilitation outcomes. Keywords: Colles Fracture, Muscle Energy Technique (MET), Muscle Stimulator (MS), Physiotherapy Rehabilitation, Home Based Rehabilitation.

Kinematic Performance of a Customizable Single Degree-of-Freedom Gait Trainer for Cost-Effective Therapy Aimed at Neuromuscular Impairments

Abstract A majority of robotic gait trainers to facilitate physical therapy for gait rehabilitation in humans are based on multidegree-of-freedom exoskeleton-based systems with sophisticated electro-mechanical hardware and software, and consequently remain inaccessible to vast sections of the populations around the world. This study seeks to advance the development of a single degree-of-freedom (DOF) gait trainer for gait therapy for individuals with neuromuscular impairments. The goal is to offer a cost-effective, accessible solution to cater to the global need for gait rehabilitation. We build upon the previous gait trainer design based on Jansen mechanism and provide an in-depth analysis and experimental validation of its kinematic performance. The device's performance is also tested and successfully demonstrated through trials involving two healthy individuals to examine its kinematic behavior under human-induced load conditions. The gait trainer demonstrates satisfactory performance under both no load conditions and a 2 kg load, exhibiting an area difference of 1% and 7%, respectively. However, when subjected to a 5 kg loading condition, a significant area difference of 27% is observed, primarily attributed to the cantilever loading at the driving shaft. A method to adjust link lengths based on specific human gait trajectories is proposed and validated. Additionally, a cost-effective tool for ankle trajectory measurement is introduced to establish a ground truth. The study demonstrates the potential of an affordable, single DOF gait trainer in facilitating high-volume therapy for those with walking disorders. This research represents a step toward making gait therapy more accessible worldwide.

POST-OPERATIVE REHABILITATION OF A RIGHT SIDED TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY PATIENT- A CASE REPORT

Background and purpose:Osteoarthritis(OA) is a progressive degenerative condition resulting from the cartilage wear and tear that leads to knee joint deformities and functional limitations. Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has become the gold standard treatment for surgically managing knee osteoarthritis, but physical rehabilitation after surgery is critical for returning function to pre-surgery levels. The purpose of this case report is to describe the effectiveness of physical therapy intervention and report outcomes following a right TKA. Case Description:The present case report describes the 12-week outpatient physical therapy rehabilitation of an 86-year-old woman who underwent right-sided TKA. She suffered from knee pain and limited ambulating speed since three years. During outpatient rehabilitation patient received treatment for improving functional mobility, ROM, strength, and gait training. Outcomes:During course of 12 weeks of physical therapy rehabilitation improvement was seen in pain from 2/10 to 0/10 on NPRS, flexion ROM from 110degrees to 130 and strength from 3-/5 to 4/5 on MMT. Additional outcome measures that showed improvement includes Time Up and Go Test (TUG) for mobility from 16.5 to 14.97 seconds and gait speed 0.6 m/s to 0.78 m/s. She was able to accomplish both short-term and long-term goals. Discussion:This study supports that early mobilization and therapeutic exercises in post knee arthroplasty can improve functional outcomes and help patient to return to the prior level of function. Although, it is recommended that further research is needed to be done on a larger population to establish its effectiveness.

Effects of Pilates exercises on spine deformities and posture: a systematic review

BackgroundPilates is becoming increasingly popular amongst a wide range of people and is gaining more attention. It is also an effective means of physical rehabilitation. The aim of this systematic review is to explore the effects of Pilates on spinal deformity and posture.MethodThis systematic review was conducted using four recognised academic and scientific databases (Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed and Cochrane) to identify articles that met the inclusion criteria. The secondary search used the Google Scholar and the Science Direct search engines. The search for articles for this review began in July 06, 2023 and was concluded on February 01, 2024. The search process for this study was documented using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA 2020). The PEDro scale was used to assess the internal validity and data statistics of the studies included in this systematic review and to evaluate the quality of the studies.ResultsThe systematic review included nine studies that met the inclusion criteria from the 651 studies retrieved, involving a total of 643 participants. The PEDro scale scores of the studies included in this systematic review ranged from 3 to 8. The intervention was in the form of Pilates or Pilates combined exercises. The studies included in this review used outcome measures of Cobb angle, angle of trunk rotation (ATR), range of motion (ROM), chest expansion, Scoliosis Research Society Questionnaire (SRS-22r) and postural assessment. Research has shown that Pilates is effective in correcting spinal deformities and posture, as well as improving quality of life, pain relief, function and fitness.ConclusionsThis systematic review provide substantial evidence that Pilates has a positive impact on improving spinal deformity and posture. However, more research is needed to validate whether Pilates can be used effectively as a physical therapy for spinal deformity rehabilitation. Pilates has considerable potential for public health interventions.

Efficacy of neck muscle activation versus strengthening for adults with chronic cervical radiculopathy: a study protocol for a randomised clinical trial

IntroductionChronic cervical radiculopathy is a common condition characterised by neck and arm pain, numbness and weakness. Both neck muscle activation and strengthening exercises are widely recognised treatments for cervical radiculopathy,...