Post Mean Values Research Articles

The role of saroglitazar in the treatment of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis in non-diabetic patients: A prospective observational study

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is a metabolic disease characterized by hepatic fat accumulation and significant inflammation. Patients with hepatic steatosis who also have at least one of the five cardiometabolic risk markers are considered to have metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. MASH is diagnosed when a microscopic examination of liver tissue reveals fat accumulation in hepatocytes along with inflammation and destruction of liver cells. This study aims to assess the role of saroglitazar, a dual proliferator peroxisome-activated receptor agonist, in the medical therapy of MASH in non-diabetic patients. A prospective observational study was carried out in a tertiary care facility in north India. A total of 51 non-diabetic MASH patients (males and females, 18 – 75 years of age, body mass index ≥18.5 kg/m2) were included in this study. Diagnosis of MASH was based on liver FibroScan (controlled attenuation parameter [CAP] score >238, liver stiffness measurement [LSM] value >7kPa) along with raised liver enzymes (serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase [SGOT], serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase [SGPT] > upper value of normal limits). All these 51 patients received 4 mg once-daily dose of saroglitazar for the treatment of MASH for 24 weeks. In this study, a standard treatment protocol was used. The percentage changes in aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and LSM with CAP were evaluated using an analysis of variance test and multiple regression analysis. About 72.5% of these patients were male and 27.5% were female (male: female ratio of 2.6). The mean age of patients was 51 ± 13.13 years. Pre- and post-treatment values of different parameters were compared. Pre-treatment mean values of ALT and AST were 93.83 ± 6.16 U/L and 76.13 ± 4.1 U/L, respectively, while their post-treatment mean values were 32.97 ± 2.15 U/L and 34.57 ± 1.65 U/L, respectively (P-value for AST and ALT <0.001). In conclusion, saroglitazar is effective in the medical management of MASH by reducing liver stiffness and suppressing elevated liver enzymes (SGOT/SGPT) as well as serum LDL levels over 6 months.

The effects of laser acupuncture on metabolic syndrome in obese postmenopausal women: a randomized controlled study

To study the laser acupuncture (LA) effects on postmenopausal obese women’s metabolic syndrome. Randomized controlled trial. Benha university hospital. Thirty postmenopausal women were randomized into two equal groups. Group A received a diet regimen and Group B received LA treatment for 30 min three times a week for two months beside the diet regimen. Included weight (W), body mass index (BMI), waist (WC), hip (HC), waist-hip ratio (WHR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), serum level of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL), fasting blood glucose (FBG), fasting blood insulin (FBI), homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) before and after the end of treatment. The study’s findings showed that both groups experienced a highly statistically significant decrease in the post-testing mean value of W, BMI, WC, HC, WHR, SBP, DBP, TC, TG, LDL, FBG, FBI, and HOMA-IR, while both groups experienced a significant increase in the post-treatment mean value of HDL (p 0.0001). The posttreatment SBP, DBP, TC, TG, LDL, FBS, FBI and insulin resistance were significantly lower while HDL was significantly higher in women who received combined LA and diet regimen compared to those who received dietary regimen only. LA beside the nutritional intervention is a physical therapy technique that may be used safely, easily, and effectively to minimize metabolic syndrome features during menopause.

The efficacy and safety of prostatic urethral lift as a minimally invasive therapeutic modality to treat lower urinary tract symptoms while maintaining sexual function in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is prevalent among elderly men, necessitating focused attention. The Prostatic Urethral Lift (PUL) procedure, a minimally invasive intervention, has emerged as a promising option for BPH management. It has shown remarkable results in ameliorating lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), enhancing quality of life, and preserving sexual function. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of PUL in BPH patients. Key databases (MEDLINE, Cochrane CENTRAL, ScienceDirect, EBSCO, Google Scholar) were systematically searched using pertinent terms related to PUL and BPH. Following the PRISMA checklist, we considered only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from 2013 to 2023. The assessment focused on LUTS, quality of life, sexual function, and adverse events within three months. Follow-up post-treatment mean values compared with controls (Sham) and the improvement from baseline to post-treatment follow-up duration were considered. Statistical analysis and risk of bias evaluation were conducted using Review Manager 5.4.1, presenting results as difference of mean values (MD) and risk ratios (RR). A meta-analysis with a Random Effects Model of 7 RCTs involving 378 confirmed BPH patients demonstrated significant improvements in the PUL arm including International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) (MD 5.51, p<0.0001), maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) (MD 2.13, p=0.0001), BPH Impact Index (BPHII) (MD 2.14, p=0.0001), and IPSS-QoL (MD 1.50, p<0.0001), without significant increase of adverse events (RR 1.51; p=0.50). Positive outcomes were observed in sexual function variables and post-void residual measurements when post-treatment values were compared to baseline. PUL holds advantages over control interventions, providing encouraging prospects for BPH management. This study underscores the need for further exploration of PUL's efficacy and safety in BPH patients.

Efficacy of lumbar motor control training in treatment of patients with cervicogenic headache

BackgroundCervicogenic headache (CGH), is a secondary headache arising from cervical disorders. Training core muscles have a corrective effect on the whole spine. Moreover, increased deep neck flexors (DNFs) activation is closely linked with balanced core stabilization of the global cervical-thoracic-lumbopelvic chains. This study aimed to investigate the effect of lumbar motor control training combined with cervical stabilization exercises compared to cervical stabilization exercises alone in CGH patients.MethodsFifty-two subjects of both genders with CGH and chronic mechanical neck pain (CMNP) participated in this study. They were recruited from the outpatient Physical Therapy Clinic at Mubarak Central Hospital, Giza, Egypt; their mean age was 28.1 ± 5.8 years and their BMI was 22.8 ± 1.6 kg/m2. They received treatment for three sessions per week for 4 weeks. Subjects were assigned randomly into two equal groups; the control group: received cervical stabilization exercises (axial elongation, cranio-cervical flexion, cervical extension, rowing, and Y-exercise). Study group: received cervical stabilization exercise in addition to lumbar motor control training (abdominal draw-in maneuver, side plank, and quadruped position), each exercise had a 4-week progression. Headache frequency, duration, intensity by visual analog scale (VAS), and neck functional disability by Neck Disability Index (NDI) were measured before the first session and after the last session of the 4 weeks of treatment.ResultsThere was a high statistically significant difference in post-treatment mean values of headache frequency, headache duration, headache intensity, and neck functional disability between the two groups in favor of the study group.ConclusionAdding lumbar motor control training to cervical stabilization exercise is more effective than cervical stabilization alone in decreasing headache frequency, duration, intensity, and neck functional disability in CGH patients with CMNP.Trial registrationNCT05952115. Registered 11 July 2023-retrospectively registered, https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/prs/app/action/LoginUser?ts=1&cx=-jg9qo4.

Efficacy of Cervical Spinal Stabilization Exercise on Reducing Pain for People with Cervical Spondylosis

Background: The synovial joint capsule, subchondral bone, and joint cartilage are all impacted by the gradualdegenerative condition known as OA. This research work is designed to check the efficacy of modified progressiveresistance training for OA knee patients.Purpose: To compare the effectiveness of cervical stabilization exercises and conventional physiotherapy exercisein reducing pain for patients with cervical spondylosis.Materials and Methods: The study took place in Eyan Physiotherapy Centre, Sriperumbudur, A total no of 40subjects were recruited for this study through the purposeful sampling method. All subjects were recruited basedon the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The recruited subjects were assigned to two groups (Group A: 20 Subjects)underwent Cervical Stabilization Exercise and (Group B: 20 Subjects) underwent Conventional Exercise. Allindividuals are assessed for pain using Algometer as a pre-test prior to the intervention and again after 6 weeks ofintervention. The entire study process was performed from November 2022 to April 2023.Results: This study states that cervical stabilization exercises are found to be more significant and more effectivein reducing pain compared to conventional therapy. The comparison of post mean value of Algometer of both thegroups. Group-A(Cervical Stabilization Exercise) was 4.30 and Group B(Conventional Exercise) was 3.65 whichshows gradual increase with p value &lt;0.0001 statistically significant.Conclusion: This study recommended that clinicians consider incorporating cervical stabilization exercises intothe treatment plan for individuals with cervical spondylosis. The evidence supporting the efficacy of cervicalstabilization exercise in reducing pain in individuals with cervical spondylosis.

The Impact of Myofascial Release Therapy and Deep Oscillation Therapy on Hamstring Muscle Length and tone in Children with Spastic Cerebral Palsy: A Comparative Study

BACKGROUND: As a result of restricted joint range of motion due to spasticity in patients with spastic cerebralpalsy, the patient’s ability to regain normal functioning may be hindered.PURPOSE: To evaluate the effectiveness of Myofascial Release Therapy (MFR) versus Deep Oscillation Therapy(DOT) in helping children with spastic cerebral palsy to relax and extend their hamstring range of motion.METHODOLOGY: A total of 32 individuals with spastic cerebral palsy, aged 2 to 10, were recruited for thiscomparative experimental study through a method of random sampling. Sixteen subjects were assigned to eachgroup. Group 1(N=16) received two sessions of MFR with conventional exercise per day, whereas Group 2(N=16)received a single session of DOT with conventional exercise per day. Throughout the course of four weeks, bothgroups got therapy five days per week. A universal goniometer was used to compare the knee extension passiverange of motion (PROM), active range of motion (AROM), and Popliteal angle (POP angle) measurements betweenthe pre- and post-treatment periods. Statistical analyses were conducted using ANOVA 2×2 and Post hoctables.RESULT: Both groups’ post-mean values for each of the dependent variables (AROM, PROM, and POP angle)statistically improved (p&lt; 0.05). Both groups’ mean differences in the PROM and POP angles were statisticallysignificant, and Group 1’s spastic hamstring muscle was more improved than Group 2’s, but both groups’ AROMshowed almost equal improvement.CONCLUSION: In children with spastic cerebral palsy, both MFR and DOT, when combined with conventionaltherapy, reduce spasticity and increase length (AROM &amp; PROM) in the hamstring muscle. However, our studyclearly shows that MFR is more successful than DOT.

COMPARISON OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF POSTURAL EXERCISES WITH INTERFERENTIAL THERAPY AND ISOMETRIC EXERCISES WITH INTERFERENTIAL THERAPY FOR MEHANICAL NECK PAIN ON IT PROFESSIONALS

Abstract - Mechanical neck pain is defined as generalized neck pain provoked by sustained neck postures, neck movement and pain on palpation of cervical musculature without pathologies. Mechanical neck pain is experienced by 30 % to 50 % of the general population. Objective: 1. To find the effect of postural exercises with interferential therapy for mechanical neck pain on IT professionals with NPQ and Pressure algometer. 2.To find the effect of isometric exercises with interferential therapy for mechanical neck pain on IT professionals with NPQ and Pressure algometer. Method: STUDY DESIGN: Quasi Experimental study. SAMPLING TECHNIQUE: Convenient Sampling technique. SAMPLE SIZE: 40. Result: From statistical analysis made with the quantitative data revealed statistically significant difference between the Group A and Group B and also within the group. The post-test mean value of NPQ in experimental group was 35.365 and conventional group was 44.515. The post mean value of PRESSURE ALGOMETER in experimental group was 8.65 and in control group was 6.15 Thus experimental group has high statistical difference than control group. Conclusion: According to the findings of this study, postural exercises with IFT in the experimental group was found to be more beneficial than isometric exercises with IFT in control group in lowering pain and leading to faster recovery in participants with mechanical neck pain. Key Words: mechanical neck pain, IT professionals, NPQ scale, Pressure algometer, postural exercises, isometric exercises

Effects of Visual Feedback on Balance and Risk of Fall among Geriatric Population

Introduction: Visual feedback training with a mirror is a technique that can improve postural stability by providing feedback on induced movements via a mirror image of the body image in the mirror. Balance training is considered to be an important aspect of a fall prevention program. Damage to balance ability causes difficulty in walking and performing functional activities. Hence, balance ability is the basis for independent movement and functional performance the aim is to find out the effects of visual feedback on balance and risk of fall among geriatric population. Aim and objectives: The aim and objective of the study is to find the effects of visual feedback on balance and risk of fall among geriatric population. Methodology: This study is an experimental study. A total of 30 geriatric population were selected based upon the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The participants were separated into two groups, the conventional group and the experimental group, each with 15 members. The detailed procedure was explained to the participants and a written informed consent form was obtained. Result: The values were statistically analyzed. The post-test mean value of Berg Balance scale in experimental group was 45.9 and conventional group was 43.2. This showed that Berg Balance Scale in experimental group was comparatively higher than conventional group. The post mean value of fall efficacy scale in experimental group was 4.80 and in conventional group was 5.93. This proves that fall efficacy scale in experimental group was comparatively less than conventional group. Conclusion: This study concluded that mirror visual feedback of experimental group was found more effective than conventional therapy in reducing risk of fall and increasing balance.

Metabolic Syndrome Comprises of Altered Lipid, Carbohydrates, and Protein Metabolism: Leading Cause of Oxidative Stress

Metabolic syndrome comprises of altered lipid, carbohydrates, and protein metabolism causing increase synthesis of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which interact with blood low density lipoprotein (LDL) particles. This interactive phenomenon develops coronary artery disease (CAD) causing hypertension, congestive cardiac failure, cardiac arrhythmias, and heart attack. Preventive measures for CAD include avoiding sedentary life style, cession of cigarette smoking, taking unhealthy bakery foods and taking hypolipidemic agents. In allopathy hypolipidemic agents include statins, fibrates, niacin and psyllium husk. Because these drugs have mild to severe adverse effects, medicinal herbs having hypolipidemic characteristics are replacing allopathic agents. Ginger is one of those medicinal herbs. We have tried to prove how much ginger can reduce LDL-C, TC, and body weight in hyperlipidemic patients. Our research work was single blind and placebo-controlled study. The study was conducted at National Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan from July to November 2016. 65 male, female hyperlipidemic patients were selected from the OPD of the Hospital. Their age range was 25 years to sixty years. Chain smokers, regular alcohol users, and patients suffering from any liver, kidney, and gastrointestinal illnesses were excluded from the study. They were divided equally ie 30 patients in each group. Group-I was tested group and Group-II was placebo group. Their baseline lipid profile, and body weight was determined in pathology laboratory of the hospital and was kept in their personal file. Serum TC (total cholesterol) by calorimetric (enzymic) method. Blood LDL-cholesterol was calculated by Friedwald formula5 ie; LDL-cholesterol = TC-(TG/5) + HDL-cholesterol. 30 patients of group-I were advised to take 5 grams ginger’s pasted-powder in divided doses for the period of three months. 30 patients of group-II were advised to take one capsule (placebo capsule filled with 30 mg of grinded wheat) 8 hourly daily for the period of three months. They were advised to come at hospital for follow up fortnightly. After three months therapy their lipid profile and body weight was redetermined by same method as above. Data were expressed as mean ± SD/SEM (standard deviation/ standard error of mean). Paired t-test was used to determine SS (statistical significance) in pre and post-treatment mean values. P-values greater than 0.05 were labeled as non-significant difference in two groups (pre-treatment and post treatment mean values). Lesser than 0.05 value (p-value) was considered as significant change in two groups. Lesser than 0.001 value was labeled as highly significant change in two groups (pre-treatment and post treatment groups).

The effects of Two-Week High Intensity Interval Training on Weight Loss in School Going Obese/Overweight Students

BACKGROUND- Children and teenagers are becoming more and more obese all around the world. High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) allows for short, intense bursts of activity followed by quick recovery periods, which can be repeated many times. This lead them to seek effective, inexpensive approaches that can burn a lot of calories in a short amount of time. To implement a home-based effective weight loss program through HIIT. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of HIIT on weight, pulse rate, oxygen saturation (spO2), waist circumference (WC) and body mass index (BMI). METHOD - Ten different schools were selected, screened for the overweight/obese subjects and they were randomly assigned to supervised group (n=15) and non- supervised group(n=15). All the subjects performed 45 minutes of a HIIT body workout, consisting of random repetitions of 45 seconds of each exercise followed by 5 seconds of passive recovery for two weeks. RESULT – The pre and post-treatment mean values showed a significant result in both the groups (&lt;0.05) on weight (2.18 ± 1.08), WC (5.6 ± 2.73), spO2 (0.07 ± 1.86), pulse rate (10.73 ± 13.2), and BMI (1.01 ± 0.37). CONCLUSION – This study provides the evidence that supervised HIIT is proved effective in reducing weight.

Effect of Arch Support on Shin Splints In Recreational Runners : Cross Sectional Study

BACKGROUND - Shin splints is a frequent injury of the lower extremity and one of the most common causes of exertional leg pain in athletes. The purpose of this study was to find the effectiveness of arch support on shin splints in recreational runners. METHOD - 30 recreational runners (15 male, 15 female) with shin splints during running were included in this study through simple random sampling. Each subject ran 1 km at their comfortable pace without the use of arch support for the 1st week, readings of foot and ankle disability index (FADI), numeric pain rating scales (NPRS) and time were recorded as a pre reading on 7th day and the same was done after the completion of 2nd week of running with arch support as post readings on 14th day. Both pre and post readings of FADI, NPRS and Time of all the 30 subjects were compared. RESULT – After analysis, the study showed significant result between pre and post mean value of foot and ankle disability index (FADI) i.e. (p &lt; 0.05) and non-significant results on numeric pain rating scales (NPRS) and time i.e. (p &gt; 0.05). CONCLUSION – The arch support does not reduce shin splints in recreational runners. however, it is effective in decreasing the foot and ankle disability but ineffective in reducing pain and time.

Comparison of laser therapy and galvanic stimulation on facial appearance and function in Bell’s palsy among south Indian population

Introduction and Aim: Bell’s palsy is an instantaneous lower motor neurons injury of 7th cranial nerve associated with infection and swelling. It produces unexpected unilateral weakness of facial muscles, progresses rapidly and attains peak symptoms within a week. The most common age of incidence is between 20 to 40 years. Although facial paralysis in Bell’s palsy is self-limited, only 80% of the patients make a full recovery. There are studies stating that both galvanic electrical stimulation and laser therapy speed up the recovery of facial paralysis, but the extent of complete recovery is unknown. Hence, this study is an attempt to understand and compare how laser therapy and galvanic electrical stimulation affect facial appearance and facial muscle functions in Bell's palsy. Materials and Methods: This study included thirty subjects with acute onset of Bell’s palsy aged between 20-40 years. They were randomly grouped into A and B. Galvanic electrical stimulation and low-level laser therapy were given to group A and group B respectively for 6 weeks (3 sessions/week) along with facial exercises. Facial disability index scale was used to measure facial muscle function and Sunny brook scale was used to measure facial symmetry in pre- and post-treatment periods. Results: When comparing the pre- and post-mean values of groups A and B on the Sunny Brook facial grading and the facial disability index (physical, social), group B (with low level laser therapy) showed a highly significant difference in mean values at p 0.001. Conclusion: Low-level laser therapy can be used as an adjective in treating the patients with Bell’s palsy.

Cephalometric evaluation and comparison of upper pharyngeal airway space in cleft lip and cleft palate patients treated with maxillary advancement and camouflage

Introduction: Pharyngeal airway space has become an important criterion for diagnosis and treatment planning and this has led to a paradigm shift towards soft tissue evaluation for orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning, The aims and objectives of the study were to evaluate and compare upper pharyngeal airway space in Cleft Lip &amp; Cleft Palate patients who underwent orthodontic treatment under different treatment modalities like Camouflage treatment &amp; Maxillary Advancement. Methods: This is a retrospective cephalometric study in which 20 Pre-treatment Cephalograms and 20 Post-treatment Cephalograms of Cleft Lip and Palate patients were taken. Orthodontic treatment involving Camouflage therapy and Maxillary Advancement were studied in each respective group. The Cephalogram was traced on Matt acetate paper and the pharyngeal airway space was measured using the McNamara analysis method. Results: Statistically significant difference was observed in the Pre-treatment and Post-treatment mean values in both groups, where the Post-treatment mean was higher than the Pre-treatment means in both groups. A highly significant mean was noted in the Cleft Surgical group as compared to the Camouflage (xiii) group, where, the post-treatment upper airway mean was higher in the Cleft Surgical group than the Cleft Camouflage group. Conclusion: There is a significant increase in upper pharyngeal airway space in patients with CLCP treated with Maxillary Advancement and Camouflage modality. The significance is comparatively more in the Maxillary Advancement group than in the Camouflage group.

Adjunctive effect of pulsed electromagnetic field therapy on quadriceps muscle strength after burn injury

Purpose. This study was conducted to examine the effect of pulsed electromagnetic field therapy on quadriceps muscle strength after burn injury. Methods. From April 2021 to June 2022, sixty male patients who suffered from second degree lower limb thermal burn injury and Total body surface area (TBSA) from 25% to 35% participated in this study. Their ages ranged from (20-40) years. They were randomly assigned in two groups, a study group composed of 30 patients who received (PEMF) over thigh area before strengthening exercise for quadriceps muscle and a control group composed of 30 patients who received strengthening exercise for quadriceps muscle. Patients of both groups received traditional physical therapy program.. Evaluation tool was isokinetic dynamometer to measure the quadriceps muscle peak torque before the treatment and after 8 weeks of treatment for both groups. Results. There was no significant difference between both group (study and control) in mean values of quadriceps peak torque pre-treatment (P &gt; 0.05). There was a significant increase in the mean values of quadriceps peak torque after 8 weeks of treatment in both groups (p &lt; 0.05) while there was a significant difference in post treatment mean values of quadriceps peak torque in the study group when compared with control group (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusion. Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy is an effective modality that can be used for improving muscle strength and performance in patients with lower limb burn when applied prior to strengthening exercise.

Influence of Bolton’s analysis and Peck &amp; Peck index on the pre and post-treatment overjet

Background: To evaluate the relationship between the overjet with pre and post orthodontic treatmentBolton’s analysis and with Peck &amp; Peck index. Materials and Methods: Pre and post-treatment orthodontic study models (n=30) of patients in the age range of 18 to 35 years, who underwent orthodontic treatment were evaluated for overjet, Bolton’s analysis (overall ratio &amp; anterior ratio) and Peck &amp; Peck index (in 31,32,41&amp;42). A digital Vernier caliper was used for all the measurements. The collected data was analyzed in SPSS software using appropriate statistical tests based on normality to compare the pre- and post-treatment mean values and Pearson’s correlation was done between the Bolton’s analysis and Peck &amp; Peck index with overjet. The p value &lt;0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: The Pearson’s correlation revealed an inverse correlation between Bolton’s anterior ratio and overjet (pre:-0.226, post:-0.254). The pre-treatment overjet with Peck &amp; Peck index revealed an inverse correlation in PP 31 (-0.230) and positive correlation in other teeth. The correlation in the post-treatment overjet with Peck &amp; Peck index was an inverse correlation in all teeth (-0.347; -0.184; -0.184 &amp; -0.074 in PP31, PP32, PP41 &amp; PP42 respectively).

Comparison of Postural Drainage and Percussion Techniques in Cystic Fibrosis Patients

Aim: To determine the effects of postural drainage and percussion techniques in patients with cystic fibrosis. Methods: This research was carried out in the ‘South Punjab Clinics, Hospital Multan' as a randomized clinical trial. From December 2020 to June 2021, the research was completed in about six months. This study used a sample size of 32 cystic fibrosis patients to determine the effects of postural drainage and percussion treatments. Two groups of patients were formed. Suctioning and aerosol medicines were used as a common treatment for both groups. Postural drainage, aerosol drugs, and suctioning were used in Group A, while the percussion method, aerosol medications, and suctioning were used in Group B. The frequency of sputum, forced spirometry FEV1 and patient satisfaction are also used. Results: The mean age and standard deviation of 32 patients was 281.009, including 20 males and 12 females. The pretreatment mean value of forced expiratory volume (FEV1) for the percussion and postural drainage groups was 4.25 and 2.38, and the post-treatment mean value was 1.00 and 2.22 respectively. The pretreatment mean value of sputum production for the percussion and postural drainage groups was 1.00 and 1.00, and the post treatment mean value was 2.25 and 2.19 respectively. Data was not normally distributed, so a non-parametric test (Mann-Whitney) was applied. The calculated p value was greater than 0.05. Conclusion: In cystic fibrosis patients, there was no substantial difference in the benefits of percussion and postural draining techniques. Keywords: Cystic fibrosis, percussion, postural drainage, airway clearance technique,

Effect of High-Power Laser Therapy Versus Shock Wave Therapy on Pain and Function in Knee Osteoarthritis Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effects of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) and high-intensity laser therapy (HILT), as outpatient physical therapy modalities, on knee osteoarthritis (KOA) patients. Materials and methods: The treatment program was completed by 40 individuals with stage II KOA (according to Kellgren and Lawrence) who were randomly allocated to one of two groups. They have had more than grade 3 pain on the visual analog scale (VAS) during activities for the last 3 months, with body-mass index less than 30 and no history of knee operation, fracture, cancer, or other neuromuscular or musculoskeletal diseases that may affect study results. The ESWT group (n = 20, mean age = 40.12 ± 9.45 years) received ESWT, 0.05 mJ/mm2, one session/week for 4 weeks, and the HILT group (n = 20, mean age = 46.62 ± 8.68 years) received HILT, 1500 mJ/cm2 in each session, three sessions/week for 4 weeks. Both groups received conservative physical therapy programs. Before and after 4 weeks of intervention, pain, physical function, and disability were assessed using a VAS, 6-min walking test, and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index. Results: When the pre- and post-treatment mean values of dependent variables of both groups were compared, there were statistically significant improvements in both groups. Significant differences in the measured variables were also discovered in favor of the HILT group compared with the ESWT group. Conclusions: HILT showed a superior effect compared with ESWT on pain, physical function, and disability in chronic KOA patients. Pan African Clinical Trials Registry number: PACTR202007638955907.

Functional outcomes of modified constraint-induced movement therapy versus Kinesio taping in children with Erb’s palsy

IntroductionFunctional improvement is the primary goal in chronic cases with neurological deficits. The aim of this study was to compare using modified constraint-induced movement therapy and Kinesio taping to improve functional outcomes in children with Erb’s palsy.MethodsThe study investigated 46 children with Erb’s palsy aged 5–7 years. They were randomly classified into 2 equal groups. Patients in group A engaged in a modified constraint-induced movement therapy program which included restraining of the movement of the non-involved upper extremity, while those in group B received a selected rehabilitative program based on the Kinesio taping method. The treatment programs were conducted 5 times per week for 6 successive weeks. Measurements obtained included active range of motion of shoulder flexion, abduction, and external rotation, as well as modified Mallet scale scores. These measurements were recorded before and after the application of the treatment program in both groups.ResultsThere was a significant improvement in external rotation range of motion and forearm supination when comparing pre- and post-treatment mean values in each study group. There were no differences between the groups regarding any of the measured variables.ConclusionsAccording to the applied procedures and collected data, there was no evidence for a superiority of modified constraint-induced movement therapy when compared with Kinesio taping in improving functional outcomes in children with Erb’s palsy.

Motor-based priming: isokinetic outcomes of aerobic exercise in children with spastic diplegia

IntroductionPriming is a behavioural change generated by preceding stimuli. Priming physical activities with aerobic exercise could improve performance and function. The study aimed to investigate the effect of aerobic exercise before a rehabilitation program on quadriceps peak torque in children with cerebral palsy of spastic diplegia.MethodsOverall, 32 patients participated in this study; they were randomly assigned to 2 groups. Patients in the control group (A) engaged in a selected physical therapy program, while those in the experimental group (B) performed aerobic exercise by using a bicycle ergometer followed by application of the same selected physical therapy program as received by group A. The treatment programs were conducted 3 times per week for 12 successive weeks. Measurements obtained included concentric peak torque of quadriceps muscle at 30° as well as 90°. These measures were recorded 2 times: before and after the application of the treatment program.ResultsThere were statistically significant differences when comparing pre- and post-treatment mean values in each group. Also, there was a significant difference in favour of group B with regard to post-treatment mean values.ConclusionsIn accordance with the applied procedures, aerobic exercise is effective in improving quadriceps peak torque in children with cerebral palsy of spastic diplegia when applied before a physical therapy rehabilitation program.

Contralateral effect of unilateral motor priming on grasping in children with unilateral spastic cerebral palsy

IntroductionCross-training, as a type of unilateral movement-based priming, could enhance the affected side depending on strengthening of the non-affected side. It was aimed to investigate the effect of unilateral movement-based priming on handgrip strength and fine motor developmental outcomes of the affected upper extremity in children with unilateral spastic cerebral palsy.MethodsOverall, 32 patients participated in this study; they were randomly classified into 2 groups. Group A subjects engaged in a selected occupational therapy program based on fine motor development, while those in group B received exercises to increase contralateral hand strength followed by application of the same program as group A. The treatment programs were conducted 3 times per week for 10 successive weeks. The outcomes included affected handgrip strength as a primary outcome and age equivalent for grasping in the Peabody Developmental Motor Scale – Fine Motor (PDMS-FM). These measures were recorded before and after the application of the allocated interventions.ResultsThere were statistically significant differences when comparing pre- and post-treatment mean values in each group. Also, there was a significant difference in favour of the study group when comparing post-treatment mean values (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; &lt; 0.05).ConclusionsUnilateral motor priming through cross-training is effective in improving grasping outcomes of the affected upper extremity concerning strength and fine motor development in children with unilateral spastic cerebral palsy.