Reach Test Research Articles

Effects of structured positive feedback intervention on standing reach ability among older adults admitted to a convalescent rehabilitation ward: a small-sample pilot randomized controlled trial.

Interventions to improve the standing reach ability of older adults are essential for full functional independence, and structured positive feedback (PF) may be an effective intervention strategy. The purposes of this pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) are to investigate the preliminary efficacy of structured PF for improving the standing reach ability of older patients admitted to a convalescent rehabilitation ward and evaluate the feasibility of a future full-scale RCT. Thirty-two eligible older adults (83.3 ± 5.9years, 23 women) out of 587 potential participants were randomly assigned 1:1 to structured PF (experimental) and conventional rehabilitation (control) groups. Only the experimental group received PF intervention for standing reach ability once every 3days. Both groups engaged in conventional rehabilitation programs for 2-3h every day. The primary outcome was change in Functional Reach Test (FRT) performance after 5weeks of the indicated intervention compared to baseline. Secondary outcomes were change in Short Falls Efficacy Scale International (Short FES-I), a self-reported measure of fear of falling, and Functional Independence Measure (FIM) scores after the 5-week intervention. The estimated difference in mean FRT change (∆) between experimental and control groups was -4.1cm (P = 0.07) according to a linear mixed model, supporting the potential efficacy of PF for improving standing reach ability. Further, Hedge's g value was 0.71, consistent with a moderate effect size. However, the estimated mean change in Short FES-I between groups also indicated greater fear of falling in the experimental group (∆ = -4.5, P = 0.009, g = 1.0). In contrast, the intervention effect on FIM was negligible (∆ = 2.0, P = 0.66, g = -0.1). These results support the preliminary effectiveness of structured PF for improving the standing reach ability of older adults. A larger-sample RCT is warranted for validation and optimization of the structured PF protocol. The University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) Registered 31 May 2022 (UMIN000047647).

The Tinetti Balance Test Is an Effective Predictor of Functional Decline in Non-Hospitalized Post-COVID-19 Individuals: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background/Objectives: Individuals with post-COVID-19 conditions risk developing short- and/or long-term neuromuscular impairments, including postural imbalance. However, there is limited evidence showing whether balance deficits are associated with declines in the functional status in post-COVID-19 individuals. This study examined postural balance in non-hospitalized post-COVID-19 individuals using different assessment tools and tested the most relevant balance tools in predicting functional status. Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled 60 adults split into control (n = 30) and post-COVID-19 (n = 30) groups. Postural balance was assessed in both groups using the Functional Reach Test (FRT), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed Up and Go (TUG), Tinetti Balance Test (Tinetti), and Mini-BESTest (MBT). Functional status in the post-COVID-19 group was assessed using post-COVID-19 functional status (PCFS). Results: Significant differences in postural stability between groups were found only for the FRT. All balance tests showed a statistically significant correlation with PCFS in the post-COVID-19 group, with better performance in all tests being associated with better functional status: Tinetti (r = −0.584), FRT (r = −0.542), MBT (r = −0.530), BBS (r = −0.415) and TUG (r = 0.368). Tinetti was the independent variable that significantly played an important role in determining PCFS (adjusted R2 = 0.318, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Post-COVID-19 functional status is best determined by the Tinetti Balance Test, making it an effective tool for assessing postural balance deficits in this population, with potential implications for postural control assessment and rehabilitation.

Robotic Rigor: Validity of the Kinarm End-Point Robot Visually Guided Reaching Test in Multiple Sclerosis

Robotic Rigor: Validity of the Kinarm End-Point Robot Visually Guided Reaching Test in Multiple Sclerosis

Correlation between fall experience and life functions among community-dwelling older adults in Japan

PurposeThis study investigated the correlation between the risk of falls and life functions, including motor function, cognitive function, and urinary disorders, among older adults residing in small cities in the metropolitan areas of Japan and evaluated the contents of fall prevention instructions. MethodsSixty-nine older adults residing at home participated in this case-control study conducted between September and October 2019. The survey items included questions pertaining to the history of falls; grip strength; the 30-s Chair Stand Test (CS-30), Functional Reach Test (FRT), and Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) scores; mental and cognitive functions [Test Your Memory-Japanese version test (TYM-J)]; living conditions; and urination status [Core Lower Urinary Tract Symptom Score (CLSS)]. ResultsParticipants with a history of falls had significantly lower CS-30 and FRT scores, and significantly higher TUG scores and CLSS than those with no history of falls. Grip strength bore significant correlations with the CS-30 and TUG scores. The CS-30 scores were correlated with the FRT and TUG scores. The FRT scores were correlated with the TUG and French State Activity Index (FAI) scores. The TUG scores were correlated with the TYM-J and FAI scores. The CLSS showed no significant correlations with the remaining items. The FRT scores and CLSS exerted a significant effect on the risk of experiencing falls. ConclusionBoth balancing ability and micturition status affect fall risk and should be considered in treatment strategies for urinary disorders in fall prevention programs for older adults.

Examining the effects of non-immersive virtual reality game-based training on knee hyperextension control and balance in chronic stroke patients: a single-blind randomized controlled study.

Post-stroke hemiparesis can lead to decreased mobility, gait disturbances, impaired balance, postural instability, limitations in activities of daily living (ADL), and long-term disability. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of non-immersive virtual reality game-based training (nIVRGT) in addition to conventional rehabilitation in stroke patients on dynamic balance, knee hyperextension control, and ADL. Twenty-five chronic stroke patients aged between 51 and 70 were included in the study. Stroke patients were randomized to a control group (n = 12) and a study group (n = 13). Individuals in control group participated conventional physiotherapy and rehabilitation program for 60min, 3 days a week for 6 weeks. individuals in the study group received 40min of conventional physiotherapy and rehabilitation program plus 20min nIVRGT. Functional Reach Test, Timed Up and Go Test, Computerized Gait Evaluation System and Barthel Index were used in the evaluation. The study group improved significantly in dynamic balance, knee control, and ADL (p < 0.05). In the control group, significant improvements were observed in dynamic balance and knee control (p < 0.05), except ADL (p > 0.05). The study group improved in dynamic balance compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Knee control and ADL improved similarly in both groups (p > 0.05). Our results showed that conventional and additional nIVRGT rehabilitation improved dynamic balance and knee hyperextension control in chronic stroke. However, it was observed that the non-immersive virtual reality (nIVR) approach was more effective in improving dynamic balance in stroke patients than conventional rehabilitation alone. NCT05907473.

A functional exercise program improves pain and health related quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia: a randomized controlled trial

Background/objectiveFibromyalgia is a non-inflammatory syndrome characterized by generalized muscle pain, with other symptoms. Numerous forms of physical training for this population have been studied through high-quality randomized clinical trials involving strength, flexibility, aerobic conditioning and multicomponent exercise interventions. This research evaluated the effectiveness of a functional exercise program at reducing pain, improving functional capacity, increasing muscle strength as well as improving flexibility, balance and quality of life in individuals with fibromyalgia.MethodsEighty-two women with fibromyalgia were randomized into two groups. The functional exercise group performed functional exercises in 45-minute sessions twice per week for 14 weeks. The stretching exercise group performed flexibility exercises with the same duration and frequency. Outcome measures were: visual analog scale for widespread pain; Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire for health-related quality of life; Timed Up and Go test for functional performance; one-repetition maximum for muscle strength, Sit and Reach test on Wells bench for flexibility; Berg Balance Scale for balance; SF-36 for general quality of life.ResultsAfter the intervention, the functional exercise group had a statistically significant reduction in pain (interaction p = 0.002), and improvement in health-related quality of life measured by the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (interaction p < 0.001) and in general health state domain of SF-36 (interaction p = 0.043) compared to the stretching exercise group. No significant differences between groups were found regarding improvements in functional capacity, muscle strength, flexibility or balance.ConclusionFunctional exercise training was effective at reducing pain and improving quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia compared to stretching exercises.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03682588 First prospectively registered in March 2018.

Correlation Between Functional Ability and Great Toe Flexor Strength in Young Adults

Background: Functional ability refers to the capacity to perform daily tasks efficiently, which relies on maintaining balance and stability. Balance is essential for keeping the body’s center of gravity aligned over a stable base and is supported by the coordination of the vestibular, visual, proprioceptive, and musculoskeletal systems. Factors such as proprioception, muscle strength, and lower extremity range of motion significantly impact functional ability. Toe flexor muscles play a vital role in providing the necessary force for anterior-posterior stability, especially when leaning forward, and contribute to the proprioceptive feedback loop that is essential for maintaining balance. Objective: To find correlation between functional ability and great toe flexor strength in young adults. Methodology: 12 male and female young adults with normal BMI were selected for the study. functional ability was measured using Functional Reach Test, great toe flexor strength was assessed using Pinch Guage Dynamometer. Karl Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient was used for statistical analysis, with a p value &lt; 0.05 considered as significant. Result: Statistically significant strong correlation was found between Functional Reach Test score and great toe flexor strength ( r = 0.887, p=0.035) suggesting that higher the great toe flexion strength higher the functional ability score. Conclusion: This study conluded that an increase in great toe flexor strength is associated With Improved Functional Ability In Young Adults.

Effectiveness of Bobath Technique on Walking Speed and Balance in Hemiplegic Patients: A Review

Worldwide, stroke is the largest cause of disability, affecting walking speed and balance, especially in hemiplegics. Bobath, or Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT), is a specialist physiotherapy method that improves motor control and movement patterns for motor deficits. Given the prevalence of stroke and the importance of rehabilitation in recovery, the Bobath technique's ability to improve walking speed and balance, which are crucial to stroke survivors' functional independence, must be assessed. Methods: This Review examined how the Bobath method affected walking speed and balance in hemiplegic individuals. A total of 15 studies were evaluated. Most of studies uses 2 groups The Bobath group received three-times-weekly motor function and balance training for 12 weeks Data was collected at Baseline, 6-week, and 12-week. Aim: This research focused on to review whether the Bobath approach improved walking speed and balance in hemiplegic patients. Results: The research revealed a substantial improvement in walking speed using the Bobath approach, with a mean increase of 0.25 meters per second compared to 0.10 meters per second in the control group (p &lt; 0.05). Significant balance improvements were seen in the Bobath group, with a mean gain of 10 points on the Berg Balance Scale and 5 cm on the Functional Reach Test, compared to 4 points and 2 centimetres in the control group (p &lt; 0.05). The Bobath approach improved walking speed and balance no more than traditional physiotherapy. Conclusion: This research found that Bobath improves walking speed and balance in hemiplegics no more than traditional physiotherapy. These findings suggest that stroke therapy programs using the Bobath technique may improve functional outcomes. To validate these results and investigate the Bobath technique's long-term stroke healing advantages, bigger sample sizes and longer follow-ups are needed. Keyword: - Bobath concept, stroke, hemiplegia, rehabilitation.

Investigation of Dynamic Balance, Limb Asymmetry and Flexibility in Jiu-Jitsu Athletes: A Preliminary Exploratory Study

This preliminary exploratory study is the first to thoroughly examine dynamic balance, inter-limb asymmetry, and flexibility in jiu-jitsu athletes, focusing on differences by fighting style, competition level, gender, and limb dominance. A total of 25 jiu-jitsu fighters participated in this cross-sectional study, which used repeated measures to ensure the reliability of the findings. Participants underwent measurements for limb lengths and were assessed for dynamic balance using the Lower and Upper Quarter Y Balance Test (LQYBT and UQYBT) and for flexibility with the Sit and Reach Test (SR). The analysis included evaluating the reliability of these tests, as well as comparing outcomes based on gender, fighting styles, competition levels, and limb dominance. The results showed that the LQYBT and UQYBT tests were reliable (ICC=0.74–0.93). There were no significant differences in dynamic balance and flexibility between different fighting styles. No significant differences were found in balance tests between the dominant and non-dominant limbs, but there were notable inter-limb asymmetries in certain measures. This study provides preliminary insights for coaches and researchers by offering reference values for balance, flexibility, and inter-limb asymmetry in jiu-jitsu athletes. However, future research with larger sample sizes is needed to better understand the differences among subgroups in this sport.

Effects of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation on postural stability in subacute stroke: A randomized control trial.

Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) promotes neuromodulation and neuroplasticity in the brain. The aim of this study was to determine the long-term effects of the anodal tDCS on postural and trunk stability, physical performance, anticipatory postural adjustment and quality of life in sub-acute stroke patients. Thirty-six participants with sub-acute stroke were divided into experimental and control groups using sealed envelope randomization. Outcome measures comprised the Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke, Trunk Impairment Scale, Time Up and Go Test, Functional Reach Test, and Stroke-Specific Quality of Life Scale. Assessments were conducted at 0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 weeks. Within-group analysis revealed significant improvement in both the experimental (p-value < 0.05) and control groups (p-value < 0.005). Notably, significant effects were observed in postural stability after intervention, and during one of the detraining assessments, the experimental group showed superior results compared to the control group in subacute stroke. Anodal tDCS yield significant short- and long-term effects on postural stability, while short term effects on trunk stability. Additionally, long term effects were observed on the physical performance and anticipatory postural adjustments while no effects at quality of life either short or long term basis among the subacute stroke patients.

Posture, balance and gait in axial spondyloarthritis: a case-control study.

Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily involves the axial skeleton but may also present with peripheral joint involvement and extra-articular involvement. The present study aims to quantitatively analyze posture, balance, and gait parameters in patients with axSpA and and assess associated factors. This cross-sectional case-control study included 51 axSpA patients (30 males, 21 females; mean age 40.94 ± 10.48 years) and 51 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. In patients with axSpA, the Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score CRP, the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index(BASDAI), the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI), the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index(BASMI), the Maastrich Ankylosing Spondylitis Enthesitis Score(MASES), and the Ankylosing Spondylitis Quality of Life(ASQoL) scale were used. For postural analysis, DIERS formetric (Diers GmbH, Schlangenbad, Germany) videoraster- stereography device was utilized. HUR SmartBalance BTG4 (HUR-labs Oy, Kokkola, Finland) balance platform was used for postural balance and limit of stability (LOS) measurement. Participants were evaluated using Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Functional Reach Test (FRT) and Timed Up and Go Test (TUG). The Zebris FDM type 3 (Zebris Medical GmbH, Germany) walking platform was used to measure the spatiotemporal parameters of the participants. Comparison of postural parameters showed that sagittal imbalance and cervical depth distance were increased in the axSpA group than in the healthy participants (p < 0.004). Comparison of functional balance parameters showed that BBS and FRT scores were significantly lower (p < 0.001) in the axSpA group than in the control group, while TUG scores were significantly higher (p < 0.001). The LOS values, which evaluate dynamic balance were significantly lower, indicating impairment, in the axSpA group. In the measurement of postural sway, which indicates static balance, all 23 subparameters were found to be similar. When analyzing the spatiotemporal gait parameters, in the axSpA group compared with those in the control group; Foot angles (p= 0.028) and stride width (p = 0.004) were increased, whereas step lengths (p = 0.004) and stride lengths (P = 0.004) were decreased. In the axSpA group the gait speed was decreased (p = 0.004). When axSpA was analyzed separately as radiographic and nonradiographic axSpA, similar findings were observed in posture, balance, and gait parameters. No significant difference was observed. We found that the clinical assessments most closely associated with posture, balance, and gait analyses were BBS, FRT, TUG, and BASFI.

Feeling good means doing good: body appreciation as a predictor of physical activity, fitness, and motivation

The study aimed to investigate the influence of body appreciation on physical activity motivation, physical activity level, and physical fitness among 423 randomly selected state university students. The Body Appreciation Scale-2 was used to quantify body appreciation. For measuring physical activity level, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire was utilized. The Physical Activity and Leisure Motivation was also used to quantify physical activity motivation. Various field tests, such as a 3-minute Step test, a 1-minute Push-up test, a Plank test, a Wall sit test, and a Sit and Reach test, were used to assess physical fitness. The questionnaire, scale, and field tests were completed and performed by the participants. The data gathered were analyzed using multiple linear regression with SPSS Version 29. Body appreciation was found to be a predictor of physical activity and leisure motivation for males, females, and all participants. It also predicted the physical activity levels of males, females, and all participants. However, its influence on physical fitness was only found in male participants. Future studies should measure variables using alternative instruments, such as a varied scale for body appreciation, real-time physical activity tracking through wearables and fitness apps, and additional physical fitness components to better assess the influence of body appreciation on physical fitness.

The Effects of Classical Music on Pain and Spinal Mobility During Stretching Exercises in Healthy Individuals

Aim: The aim of this study was to examine the immediate effects of listening to classical music as a cognitive relaxation technique during stretching exercises on trunk flexibility and exercise-induced pain. Method: This study was a randomized controlled trial in which 34 healthy male and female individuals aged between 18-22 years were divided into two groups: classical music listening group (n=17) and control group (n=17). Both groups performed static stretching exercises on the lumbal region and hamstring muscle groups for a total of 15 minutes. During the exercise, participants in the Classical Music Group listened to music with headphones. Control group did not listen to any music. Both groups underwent evaluation of their forward (Sit Reach Test) and lateral trunk flexibility (Trunk Lateral Flexion Test) before and after the exercise. Pain intensity during exercise was measured with Visual Analog Scale. Statistical analysis was performed using the R-Studio 1.4.1103 program, with a significance level of p&amp;lt;0.05. Results: In both groups, there was an increase in all flexibility values compared to before the stretching exercise (p&amp;lt;0.001). Classical Music Group demonstrated greater improvements in flexibility values compared to the Control Group, except for the forward flexibility of the trunk (p&amp;lt;0.05). The two groups had no significant difference in pain levels experienced during static stretching exercises (p&amp;gt;0.05). Conclusion: Performing stretching exercises while listening to classical music has been shown to increase the pain threshold. This decreased sensation of pain resulting from exercise can also lead to increased flexibility.

Physiological Profiles of Male Adolescents in Kelantan, Malaysia Practicing Taekwondo and Wushu.

Martial arts training is beneficial for improving physical fitness but the improvements can vary according to the type of martial art performed. This study investigated lung function, aerobic and anaerobic capacity, flexibility, muscular strength and power among male adolescents who were sedentary or who practiced taekwondo or wushu. A total of 30 male adolescents living in the Kelantan state in Malaysia who were between 14 years old and 20 years old were enrolled and divided into three groups: i) sedentary (control), ii) taekwondo and iii) wushu. Each participant underwent a lung function test, 20 m shuttle run, Wingate anaerobic test and a Sit and Reach test, as well as tests of standing long jump power, handgrip, back and leg strength. Relative to the sedentary control group, the wushu group had significantly higher values than the sedentary control group for fat free mass (P = 0.047), explosive leg power (P < 0.001), aerobic capacity (P < 0.001), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) (P = 0.021) and Wingate anaerobic capacity (P < 0.05). The taekwondo group also showed significantly greater values than the sedentary control group for explosive leg power (P = 0.018), forced vital capacity (FVC) (P = 0.014) and FEV1 (P < 0.001). The wushu group exhibited significantly higher explosive leg power (P = 0.010) and Wingate anaerobic capacity parameters including mean power (P = 0.001), anaerobic capacity (P < 0.001) and anaerobic power (P = 0.002) than the taekwondo group. Engagement of male adolescents in wushu and taekwondo was associated with improved physiological profiles compared to those who were in the sedentary control group. Practice of wushu could result in greater explosive leg power and anaerobic capacities than taekwondo.

Effect of lower limb resistance exercise with abdominal draw-in on stroke survivors: A pilot study.

Evidence-based guidelines are needed to inform rehabilitation practice including the effect of non-paralytic lower limb resistance exercise with abdominal drawing-in technique (ADIM) on recovery of trunk control, balance and daily living after stroke survivors. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of trunk control strengthening performed in non-paralytic lower limb resistance exercise with ADIM on trunk control, balance, daily living in stroke survivors. The 24 participants with stroke were randomly divided into three groups: lower limb resistance exercise group (LRAG; n = 8), lower limb exercise group (LAG; n = 8), and control group (CG; n = 8). The training sessions were conducted three times a week for four weeks. Outcome measures included the Korean version Trunk Impairment Scale (K-TIS), Postural Assessment Scale of Stroke (PASS), Modified Functional Reach Test (mFRT), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Foot print and Modified Barthel's Index (MBI). The results showed that the LRAG had a significant effect on the K-TIS, PASS, mFRT, Foot print and MBI than the LAG and CG (p < 0.05). The BBS results showed a significant difference the CG (p < 0.05). This study showed that repeated non-paralytic lower limb resistance exercises with ADIM can be used clinically as a training method for general physiotherapy in patients with reduced postural control, balance and daily living.

"Effect of Progressive Structured Neuromuscular Training Program on Balance, Performance and Injury Risk Prediction in Amateur Futsal Team Players: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial"

"Neuromuscular training improves neuromuscular control and balance, consequently enhancing joint stability. This study aims to assess the impact of a structured neuromuscular training program on balance and performance among university amateur male futsal team players and to analyze biomechanical factors pertinent to injury risk assessments. Thirty athletes aged between 18 and 25, participating in the university male futsal team, will be enrolled in this study. At the outset, all athletes will undergo evaluation using the Korebalance® System, Countermovement Jump, Running-Based Anaerobic Sprint Test, Shot on Goal Test, Sit and Reach Test, Shuttle, Y Balance-Lower Quadrant, and The Tuck Jump test. Subsequently, they will maintain their regular training regimen of classical training twice a week for eight weeks and undergo reassessment using the same battery of tests after 8 weeks of period. Following this initial phase, the athletes will be randomly assigned to two groups: Control Group (n = 15) and Neuromuscular Training Group (n = 15). The Control Group (CG) will continue with their classical futsal training twice a week for eight weeks, while the Neuromuscular Training Group (NMEG) will engage in progressive structured neuromuscular training in addition to their regular futsal training, also twice a week for eight weeks. At the conclusion of the eight-week intervention period, both groups will undergo reevaluation using the same assessment methods. The study commenced in October 2023 and is anticipated to conclude by August 2024. It is anticipated that the integration of progressive structured neuromuscular training into futsal team training programs will yield positive outcomes."

Electromyography-Triggered Constraint-Induced Movement Cycling Therapy for Enhancing Motor Function in Chronic Stroke Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

This single-blind randomized controlled trial investigated the effectiveness of surface electromyography (sEMG)-triggered constraint-induced movement cycling therapy (CIMCT) in improving balance, lower extremity strength, and activities of daily living in patients with chronic stroke. The participants included patients with chronic stroke-induced hemiplegia who had been diagnosed for more than 6 months, with a minimum score of 24 points on the Mini-Mental State Examination and above level 3 on the Brunnstrom stages. The trial lasted 4 weeks and participants were divided into a CIMCT group and a general cycling training (GCT) group. The CIMCT group (n = 20) used an sEMG-triggered constrained-induced movement therapy device, whereas the GCT group (n = 19) used a standard stationary bicycle. The primary outcome measures showed a significant increase in muscle strength on the affected side in the CIMCT group, as assessed by a manual muscle tester (p < 0.05), with a large effect size (d = 1.86), while no meaningful improvement was observed in the GCT group. Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in dynamic balance, as measured by the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test (p < 0.05), with the CIMCT group showing superior results compared to the GCT group, reflected by a large effect size (d = 0.96). Additionally, both groups showed significant improvements in balance as assessed by the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and the Functional Reach Test (FRT). The CIMCT group exhibited more pronounced improvements than the GCT group, with large effect sizes of 0.83 for the BBS and 1.25 for the FRT. The secondary outcome measures revealed significant improvements in activities of daily living in both groups, as assessed by the modified Barthel index (MBI), with the CIMCT group achieving a substantial improvement (p < 0.05), accompanied by a large effect size (d = 0.87). This study concludes that sEMG-triggered CIMCT effectively improved muscle strength, postural balance, and activities of daily living in patients with chronic stroke.

Adaptation Test and Genetic Parameters Estimation of Chili (Capsicum spp.) by Automation Drip Irrigation System in UG Technopark, Cianjur

Bean stew efficiency in 2019-2021 is vacillated because of the utilization of improper assortments and ecological variable. This study plans to decide assortments that have ideal development and creation at UG Technopark and to decide the hereditary variety between bean stew assortments. This study used a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three blocks and one factor made up of eight chili varieties. The information examination utilized in this review was investigation of varians (ANOVA) at 5 and 1% level and the post hoc test utilized Duncan's Various Reach Test at 5%. Noticed information additionally were broke down utilizing coefficient of hereditary difference, coefficient of phenotypic change and heritability examination. The results showed that the Bonita variety has the highest plant height, dichotomous height, and the largest stem diameter. Bishop's crown variation had the biggest character of crown width, length and width of leaves meanwhile Ayesha variety had the fastest flowering time. On the fruit characters, Bishop’s crown variety had the highest fruit weight per plant and fruit diameter. Reisa varieties had the highest fruit weight. Each character had a wide range of genetic coefficients of variation with values ranging from 16.50 to 77.96%, high phenotypic coefficents of variation with values ranging from 13.93 to 86.38% and high broad meaning heritability values ranging from 0.43 to 1.00.

Time Course Effects of Kinesio Taping in Knee Osteoarthritis Patients

Background: Knee osteoarthritis is a common musculoskeletal disorder in the elderly, characterized by cartilage loss leading to pain, stiffness, and restricted movement. Kinesiotaping has been suggested as a therapeutic approach to reduce pain and improve functional outcomes in knee osteoarthritis patients. Objective: This study aimed to compare the effects of quadriceps and patellar kinesiotaping applied for different durations (24, 48, and 72 hours) on pain, balance, and functional performance in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Methods: A randomized clinical trial was conducted from March to September 2020 at the Railway General Hospital, Rawalpindi, and Abasyn Rehabilitation Center, Islamabad. Forty-eight patients with knee osteoarthritis (grades 2-3) were randomly assigned to three groups: Group A (kinesiotaping for 24 hours), Group B (kinesiotaping for 48 hours), and Group C (kinesiotaping for 72 hours). All participants also received conventional therapy, including hot pack application, quadriceps strengthening exercises (15 repetitions × 3 sets), and stretching exercises (5 repetitions with a 10-second hold × 3 sets). Pain, balance, and functional performance were assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and one week later using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), Functional Reach Test (FRT), and Time Up and Go Test (TUG). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, with intragroup comparisons conducted using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and intergroup comparisons using the Kruskal-Wallis test. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Significant reductions in pain were observed across all groups (p &lt; 0.05), with the most notable improvement in Group C (72 hours), where NPRS scores decreased from a median of 2 (IQR 1.75) at baseline to 1 (IQR 1) at follow-up (p &lt; 0.05). However, no significant improvements were noted in balance or functional performance across the groups, as indicated by FRT, WOMAC, and TUG scores (p &gt; 0.05). Conclusion: Kinesiotaping significantly reduces pain in knee osteoarthritis patients, particularly when applied for 72 hours, but does not appear to significantly impact balance or functional performance. These findings suggest that kinesiotaping is effective for short-term pain management, though additional interventions may be necessary to improve functional outcomes.

Checks and balances: a meta-analysis on the known-groups validity of functional postural control tests in children.

Pediatric physical therapists commonly treat children with postural control deficits. Ideally, pediatric functional postural control tests should therefore be able to identify postural control deficits in children with various disorders. Despite a plethora of available tests, evidence for their validity - especially known-groups - remains scarce. This review aims to determine the known-group validity of available functional postural control tests to differentiate various pediatric pathological groups of different ages from their typically developing (TD) peers. PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus were systematically searched (last update: February 2023; PROSPERO: CRD42023408982). Forty case-control studies with a pathological pediatric sample (N.=1331) and TD peers (N.=1889) were included and selected for data-extraction and -analysis. Risk of bias was assessed using the SIGN checklist and level of evidence was scored using GRADE. Random-effect meta-analyses were performed to estimate pooled standardized mean differences (SMD) for the various test types and subclassified based on pathology and/or age. When compared with TD peers, children with underlying pathologies performed significantly worse on pediatric functional postural control test batteries (SMD=-2.21), the Timed Up and Go Test and variants (SMD=2.30), the One Leg Stance test and variants (SMD=-2.14), while the Reach tests showed a smaller difference (SMD=-1.19). Subclassification within the meta-analyses showed that pathology was an influencing factor for the test batteries and the one leg stance test and variants. Age was an influencing factor for the reach tests. None of the included functional postural control tests exceeded a low level of evidence. Pediatric functional postural control tests that assess multiple aspects of postural control (such as test batteries) seem to offer higher known-groups validity than single-task tests (e.g. reach tests). The underlying pathology has a larger impact on the validity of these tests than age. There remains an overall low level of evidence for the known-groups validity of pediatric functional postural control tests indicating the need for research with more homogenous groups and norm reference data.