Rehabilitation Approaches Research Articles

Assessment of Urban Redevelopment Programme in Ondo Town, Ondo State, Nigeria

Diverse problems abound in Ondo town, such as slums, floods, dilapidated buildings, and a poor road network; consequently, an urban redevelopment programme was introduced by the government to address these problems. This study, therefore, aimed at assessing urban redevelopment programmes in Ondo town, Ondo State, Nigeria. The sample for the study was chosen through a multi-stage sampling. In the first stage, 7 political wards were purposively selected from a total of 12 wards. The second stage involved the selection of 3 wards out of the prior 7, being the wards where the urban redevelopment program took place. Thereafter, Taro Yamane Sample Size Calculation was adopted to arrive at 399 out of the total population of 115,000. Secondary data were sourced not only through textbooks, journals, and the internet but also from the National Population Commission, where the three selected wards' population projection figure for the year 2021 was obtained. The research has revealed that urban redevelopment took place in Ondo town; especially redevelopment of drainage canals, road expansions, and construction of roundabouts was extensively carried out amongst others. The findings revealed public/private partnership efforts in the urban redevelopment of Ondo town. Also, bulldozing and rehabilitation approaches were adopted in the urban redevelopment of Ondo town. The study further showed that urban redevelopment has contributed significantly to boosting the socio-economic development of the town. The research has also revealed the negative consequences of urban redevelopment in the form of demolition of structures which posed hardships to the occupants. The hypothesis was tested at a 0.05 level of significance. The Chi-square test indicated that the nature of the urban redevelopment programme in Ondo town is not significantly responsible for socio-economic development in Ondo town (X2 = 11.32, P > 0.05. The study concluded that the redevelopment programme should be further encouraged and strengthened for the positive transformation of Ondo town.

Mechanisms and research progress of motor imagery combined with action observation in cognitive rehabilitation

Introduction：Cognitive deficits refer to impairments in the brain's ability to process information, memory, attention, reasoning, decision-making, and other cognitive functions.Cognitive rehabilitation (CR) is a therapeutic approach aimed at improving cognitive function through various strategies, training, and interventions, ultimately enhancing quality of life. Motor imagery (MI) and action observation (AO) are key rehabilitation methods in the cognitive domain and have been widely used in related studies. Recently, the combination of motor imagery and action observation therapy (AO+MI) has emerged as a promising research direction, receiving increasing support in the academic community. Aim of the study: This study aims to explore the mechanisms behind the combination of action observation and motor imagery (AO+MI) and assess the effectiveness of this innovative approach in cognitive rehabilitation. Material and methods: A literature review was conducted by searching databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for English-language articles. Keywords including "motor imagery," "action observation," and "cognitive rehabilitation" were used in the search. Conclusions: Both motor imagery (MI) and action observation (AO) have demonstrated positive effects on cognitive function. However, the combination of MI and AO may produce three distinct states that require further investigation. Preliminary findings suggest that AO+MI has shown promising results in enhancing corticospinal excitability (CE), benefiting children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD), and improving outcomes in stroke patients. However, some scholars have raised concerns, emphasizing the need for further experimental validation.

Comparison of Occupational Performance in Immersive Virtual and Real Environments Among Patients With Stroke: Observational Randomized Crossover Pilot Study.

Conventional rehabilitation approaches involve therapists simulating various occupational tasks in health care settings or recreating real-life situations to assess and train patients in instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs). As an alternative, immersive virtual reality (IVR) has been widely used in stroke rehabilitation for years, but research comparing occupational performance between virtual and real environments is limited. This study aims to introduce a novel IVR shopping system designed for patients with stroke and to investigate the correlation of occupational performance in virtual and real environments among patients with stroke. Ten patients with stroke were recruited from the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria for this observational, randomized crossover study; the patients were predominantly male (n=7), had experienced ischemic stroke (n=9), were aged 14 to 73 years, and had a time since stroke of 1 to 42 months. All patients attempted shopping tasks in virtual and real environments. The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT), modified Barthel index (MBI), and Lawton index (LI) were used to assess cognition, ambulation, and activities of daily living. Memory capacity and duration in the virtual and real environments were recorded as the primary parameters of occupational performance. The Wilcoxon test and Spearman correlation coefficients were used to analyze the differences and correlations between the 2 environments. The Wilcoxon test showed no significant differences between the virtual and real environments in memory capacity and duration of task completion (P>.99 and P=.99), and memory capacity in both environments correlated with the LI (ρ=0.81; P=.005). Memory duration had a relationship with the TUGT in the virtual environment (ρ=0.68; P=.03) and a borderline negative correlation with MMSE in the real environment (ρ=-0.58; P=.08). Considering the small sample size used in this study and the study's limitations, despite the significant correlation between shopping performance in IVR and the real world, it is still too early to conclude that IVR is a noninferior approach, but it presents the potential to be an alternative for assessment and training in IADLs when resources are limited. However, further research is needed to investigate the psychometric properties, clinical effects, and impact of virtual training on real-world performance. The implications for practice might include the following: (1) occupational performance in virtual shopping might be the same as real-world shopping, and more virtual IADLs could thus be developed; (2) virtual IADL assessment and training systems could be used in remote locations or locations with limited resources; and (3) more objective parameters of IADLs could be extracted from virtual environments.

Dynamic neuromuscular stabilization and its efficiency on sports performance

Neuromuscular stability is necessary for optimal sport performance. Stability is not achieved only by abdominal muscles, spine extensors and gluteals, but it is accomplished by precise coordination of these muscles and intra-abdominal pressure by the central nervous system. A primary role of the core muscles stability is to raise the intra-abdominal pressure and to increase the tension in the thoracolumbar fascia. Postural core instability is associated with poor dynamic balance control and with a high risk of injury or fall. Dynamic neuromuscular stabilization (DNS) is a rehabilitative approach to optimize the movement system based upon the scientific principles of developmental kinesiology and provides an effective tool in rehabilitation of sport injuries.

Functional approaches in tendinopathy rehabilitation: exploring the role of tendon neuroplastic training

Functional approaches in tendinopathy rehabilitation: exploring the role of tendon neuroplastic training

IMPACTOS DA FISIOTERAPIA NA REDUÇÃO DAS DORES MUSCULOESQUELÉTICAS EM MULHERES ADULTAS COM LOMBALGIA, UMA REVISÃO DE LITERATURA

Introduction: Low back pain is defined as one of the leading causes of disability in adult women, primarily affecting functionality and well-being. Physiotherapy aims to provide comfort and improve quality of life through strategies that seek to minimize the discomfort caused by this condition. This paper analyzes and presents physiotherapy techniques for reducing musculoskeletal pain in adult women with low back pain. Objective: The objective was to identify the most effective approaches for symptom relief and functional rehabilitation of these patients. Methodology: The structure is a literature review, composed of articles published between 2018 and 2024 from databases such as PubMed, BVS, Lilacs, and Scielo. Descriptors in both Portuguese and English were used according to DeCS/MeSH (Health Sciences Descriptors). Keywords were applied with filters for language (Portuguese and English), publication year (2018-2024), article type (clinical trial, observational study), and full-text availability. Results: The search highlighted the results of physiotherapy, particularly through specific stability exercises and pain neuroscience education. These interventions significantly reduced pain and improved the quality of life in women with low back pain, as the overall prevalence of low back pain was notably higher in women compared to men. Discussion: Various techniques were examined to evaluate the main evidence on the impacts of physiotherapy in reducing musculoskeletal pain in adult women with low back pain. There was some complexity in finding evidence that specifically addressed the topic. Conclusion: Physiotherapists are trained to rehabilitate and prevent, playing a crucial role in pain reduction, functional improvement, and improving lives. They hold an essential and indispensable role in this context.

Resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging in patients with multiple sclerosis before and after high-dose immunosuppressive therapy and autologous hemopoietic stem cell transplantation

BACKGROUND: Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by multifocal foci of demyelination in the central nervous system, usually affecting people of working age. The disease causes damage to the blood-brain barrier, the development of multifocal inflammation, destruction of the myelin sheath of axons and various degrees of damage. It is clinically manifested by restriction of motor activity, visual acuity, as well as other symptoms leading to loss of performance and disability of the patient. AIM: determination of changes in the functional connectivity of brain neural networks in patients with multiple sclerosis before and after high-dose immunosuppressive therapy and autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation by performing functional magnetic resonance imaging at rest. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The data of functional magnetic resonance imaging of patients with multiple sclerosis were analyzed in dynamics before and after the use of high-dose immunosuppressive therapy followed by autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The study involved 25 patients with a verified diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. Each underwent complex magnetic resonance imaging at two time points (before and after high-dose immunosuppressive therapy followed by autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation) with a difference of 12 months, which included structural magnetic resonance imaging - in order to exclude the presence of pathological foci in the brain (in addition to foci of multiple sclerosis) and functional magnetic resonance imaging.-resonance imaging at rest — to assess functional connectivity. Also, according to the method generally accepted in classical neurology, a clinical neurological examination was performed. RESULTS: At the stage of comparing data on the two groups obtained using functional magnetic resonance imaging at rest, changes in functional activity were detected in various parts of the brain, presumably responsible for clinical differences in the studied groups. CONCLUSION: Currently, the links between brain structures and morphological changes that cause cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis are being studied. To predict the progression of the disease, the development of biomarkers, including those based on functional magnetic resonance imaging, is required. Evaluating changes in the functional connectivity of brain neural networks can help personalize therapeutic and rehabilitation approaches.

Fire dragon cupping in treating a parturient woman with gastrointestinal dysfunction after cesarean section: A case report.

The postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction after cesarean section is commonly presented as uncomfortable symptoms such as abdominal pain and distension. As a novel traditional Chinese medicine characteristic therapy, the fire dragon cupping can effectively enhance intestinal peristalsis and improve the gastrointestinal discomforts by using the manipulation and moxibustion heat to stimulate acupuncture points. The purpose of this report is to provide a new approach and new ideas for rapid rehabilitation of gastrointestinal dysfunction after cesarean section. A parturient woman, 39 years old, pregnancy 4, delivery 2, underwent lower uterine segment cesarean section under intrathecal anesthesia due to scarred uterus. On the 3rd day after cesarean section, the anus still did not exhaust and defecate, so this parturient woman complained of obvious abdominal pain, abdominal distension, nausea, and vomiting. The measured abdominal circumference was 96 cm, and the bowel sounds weakened on auscultation; the plain abdominal radiograph indicated a small amount of pneumomediastinum, thus the incomplete intestinal obstruction was considered. The parturient woman was treated with fire dragon cupping treatment in her back and abdomen once a day, each time about 30 to 40 minutes, 3 consecutive days of treatment. On the 4th day after cesarean section, the parturient woman naturally had anal exhaust and defecated watery stools twice, without complaint of abdominal pain distension. Under the guidance of the concept of rapid rehabilitation nursing in obstetrics, according to the principle of making gradual and orderly progress, risk management of gastrointestinal dysfunction after cesarean section is carried out in the early stage, the fire dragon cupping and individualized rehabilitation scheme are implemented, and the parturient women with gastrointestinal dysfunction after cesarean section are actively treated.

Experiences of physiotherapists working with adults living with Long COVID in Canada: a qualitative study

ObjectivesTo explore experiences of physiotherapists working with adults living with Long COVID in Canada.DesignCross-sectional descriptive qualitative study involving online semi-structured interviews.ParticipantsWe recruited physiotherapists in Canada who self-identified as having clinically...

Exploring prevalent injuries among tennis players and optimal rehabilitation approaches: A systematic review protocol.

Tennis is a globally popular sport known for its numerous health benefits. However, it also underscores the physical demands and potential injuries associated with high-performance play. This review emphasizes the role of kinetic chains in executing powerful movements and discusses common injuries, particularly in the upper limbs due to the sport's overhead nature. It highlights the importance of effective rehabilitation methods for swift recovery and long-term performance enhancement in high-performance tennis players. The review aims to investigate the relationship between age, sex, and injury prevalence among high-performance tennis players to inform injury prevention strategies. This review protocol will provide a description on effective rehabilitation methods to tennis players, aiding coaches, physiotherapists and physicians. Methodologically, this systematic review will develop following the PRISMA guidelines, focusing on articles published between 2011 and 2024, with eligibility criteria specified. Data collection involved screening titles and abstracts, removing duplicates, and assessing full texts for eligibility. Data extraction will include information on authors, publication year, evidence level, participant demographics, injuries, treatments, etc. The GRADE framework will be used for evidence quality assessment, and NIH criteria were applied for study quality assessment. Prospero registration number: CRD42023453182.

Biophysics of ACL injuries

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries rank among the most prevalent and severe types of injuries, significantly impacting both athletes and non-athletes alike. These injuries not only result in immediate physical impairment, such as intense pain, substantial swelling, and a marked loss of mobility, but also carry long-term health consequences that can alter a person’s quality of life. Chronic pain, persistent instability, and an increased risk of developing osteoarthritis are among the lasting effects that can follow an ACL injury. An in-depth understanding of the biophysics behind ACL injuries is paramount for devising effective prevention and treatment protocols. Biophysics, which combines principles from physics with biological systems, provides crucial insights into the mechanical and structural integrity of the ACL and its susceptibility to injury under various conditions. This systematic review aims to collate and synthesize the current knowledge surrounding the biophysical mechanisms that underlie ACL injuries. The review encompasses a range of factors, including the biomechanical forces that place stress on the ligament, anatomical structures that may predispose individuals to injury, and physiological conditions that affect ligament health and resilience. Each of these factors plays a crucial role in the incidence and severity of ACL injuries. Biomechanical forces, for example, can involve sudden changes in direction or impact during physical activity, leading to excessive stress on the ACL. Anatomical factors might include variations in bone structure or ligament alignment that inherently increase the risk of injury. Additionally, physiological conditions such as muscle strength, flexibility, and overall ligament health can influence the likelihood and extent of an ACL injury. The findings of this review underscore the necessity of adopting integrated approaches in both injury prevention and rehabilitation. Such approaches must consider the multifaceted nature of ACL injuries, involving not only mechanical and anatomical aspects but also physiological and possibly even genetic factors. By emphasizing a multi-faceted understanding, interventions can be more effectively tailored to address the complex interplay of elements that contribute to ACL injuries. This holistic approach can lead to better outcomes for those at risk of or recovering from ACL injuries, enhancing the efficacy of prevention strategies and rehabilitation protocols.

Section 64a of the NDPS Act: Analysing the Immunity from Prosecution for Drug Addicts and Individuals Charged with Minor Offences

Section 64A of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act of 1985 provides immunity from prosecution for drug users charged under Section 27 or involved in minor drug offences, as long as they willingly seek medical treatment for de-addiction at a government hospital. This provision signifies a shift towards prioritizing health rather than criminalization, emphasizing rehabilitative approaches over punitive measures. This paper examines the impact of Section 64A on reducing drug-related harm and the societal stigma of addiction, alongside its goals, challenges, and judicial interpretations. However, its effectiveness is compromised by inconsistent enforcement, insufficient rehabilitation resources, and widespread lack of awareness. Recommendations for enhancement involve elucidating unclear provisions of this regulation, fostering greater sensitivity among the public, law enforcement, and judicial officers, and broadening access to treatment. By bolstering India’s harm reduction approaches, substantial advancements can be achieved in both the legal framework and public health, tackling crucial health challenges and easing the burden on overcrowded prisons, thereby promoting a more equitable and efficient justice system.

Effect of Unimanual Versus Bimanual Training on Impairment, Disability and Quality of Life Among Post Stroke Individuals: A Comparative Study

Background: Stroke is a significant global health issue caused by sudden interruptions in blood flow to the brain, leading to neurological dysfunction that can result in ischemic or hemorrhagic conditions. Effective rehabilitation approaches, such as unilateral and bilateral training, play a vital role in restoring upper limb function and overall recovery through targeted neural adaptations. Evaluation tools like the (SIS) provide critical insights into post-stroke recovery and improvements in quality of life, underscoring the need for comprehensive care and early intervention in managing this complex medical condition. Aim: To find out the effectiveness of unimanual and bimanual training on impairment, disability, and quality of life among post stroke individuals. Study design: comparative study Method: Firstly, ethical clearance was taken from the committee for comparative study. Samples were collected by lottery allotment sampling method. Thirty participants were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The details of the treatment were explained and written consent was taken from the participants. Experimental group treated with unimanual training and bimanual training for 5 days a week for 4 weeks. Outcome measure: Stroke impact scale Results: Data was analysed using SPSS Version29. According to statistical analysis, improvement seen in group B compared to group A. Conclusions: Bimanual training showed greater effective in impairment, disability and quality of life compared to unimanual training. KEYWORDS: Bimanual training, Unimanual training, stroke impact scale, quality of life, stroke.

Limb-girdle muscular dystrophies: A scoping review and overview of currently available rehabilitation strategies.

Limb-girdle muscular dystrophies (LGMDs) constitute a diverse group of inherited disorders primarily affecting skeletal muscle. Despite the absence of cures, rehabilitative treatments offer potential for preventing and mitigating loss of muscle strength. However, the role of exercise training in LGMD patients remains contentious. This review aims to provide an overview of the currently available motor rehabilitation strategies for the most common subtypes of LGMD. To identify relevant articles, we performed a systematic search in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, focusing on muscular and respiratory interventions. The search resulted in 560 potentially relevant articles, of which 16 were included in the review. Eight studies concentrated on neuromuscular functional rehabilitation therapy programs, seven combined both neuromuscular rehabilitation and interventions to maintain or enhance respiratory functionality and one focused on respiratory intervention only. Altogether, the papers examined offered a comprehensive view on the rehabilitative strategies available and provided an indication of the most valuable practices to deal with patients' health and needs. Upon analysis, we conclude that, when tailored to individual needs, muscle training can enhance strength and functional abilities, positively impacting psychological well-being. However, generic protocols may lead to limited benefits, fatigue, pain, and compliance issues. Moreover, early management of respiratory symptoms and personalized respiratory physiotherapy can enhance patients' well-being and their capability to participate in muscle training exercises. Future studies should not only refine rehabilitation approaches but also assess their impact on patients' quality of life, including psychological factors like depression and self-esteem.

Transforming Stroke Recovery: The Bobath Concept in a Case Study of Middle Cerebral Artery Infarction

Stroke remains a major cause of long-term disability, necessitating effective rehabilitation strategies. This case study examines the rehabilitation of a 57-year-old male patient recovering from a middle cerebral artery (MCA) infarction, utilising the Model of Bobath Clinical Practice (MBCP). The patient underwent interventions based on the Bobath concept, focusing on selective activation of trunk muscles, core engagement, and pelvic alignment to enhance postural control. Assessments revealed significant improvements in both sitting and standing postures, with reductions in compensatory fixation strategies. The targeted therapeutic exercises facilitated better trunk control and lower limb weight-bearing, resulting in overall enhanced stability. The findings underscore the importance of individualised approaches in stroke rehabilitation aligned with Bobath principles. While the outcomes are promising, further research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of the MBCP model across varied patient populations. This study highlights the potential of the Bobath Concept in improving functional recovery and quality of life for stroke survivors.

Rehabilitation delivery models to foster healthy ageing - a scoping review

Abstract Background Rehabilitation is crucial for healthy ageing among older adults, who face heightened risks of non-communicable diseases, infections, injuries, and mental health issues. Yet, understanding tailored rehabilitation for this demographic remains limited. To fill this gap, we conducted a scoping review to identify rehabilitation delivery models targeting older adults’ functioning and healthy ageing. Methods We systematically searched Medline and Embase (January 2015 to May 2022) for English-language studies on rehabilitation approaches for older adults. Three authors independently screened records for eligibility and synthesized findings through quantitative and qualitative analysis. Results Among 6,933 records, we assessed 585 articles, identifying 283 studies with 69,257 participants. Six main rehabilitation delivery models emerged, with outpatient (24%) and telerehabilitation (22%) being predominant. Multidisciplinary teams (31.5%) often followed integrated care principles (30.4%). However, most studies adopted a disease-centric approach (59.0%), neglecting prevalent issues like pain, sensory impairments, incontinence, and sexual dysfunctions. Therapeutic exercises (54.1%) and self-management education (40.1%) were common interventions. Conclusions Our scoping review outlines diverse rehabilitation delivery models for older adults, highlighting gaps in addressing prevalent issues and emphasizing evidence-based strategies to promote healthy ageing. It underscores the need for systematic functional assessment and expansion of rehabilitation programs to cover prevalent health concerns. While limitations include reliance on published research and not assessing model effectiveness, this review lays groundwork for future research and innovation in rehabilitation and healthy ageing. Key messages • The scoping review identifies six rehabilitation delivery models for older adults. • The scoping review advocates for evidence-based strategies for enhancing healthy ageing through rehabilitation.

Rehabilitation is [still] necessary to optimize function in neuromuscular disorders.

The landscape of care for children and adults with neuromuscular disorders (NMDs) is rapidly changing as more disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) become available. These DMTs provide hope and opportunity for evolving phenotypes, though none (yet) are curative. Rehabilitation has been the standard of care for patients with NMDs and should remain so, even with the advent of novel DMTs. An interdisciplinary rehabilitation approach is holistic and comprehensive, addressing functional needs, musculoskeletal complications, pain, durable medical equipment, and bracing needs. This care will continue to be essential for patients who experience impairments and disability, despite receiving DMTs. Additionally, we must consider how to care for a new rapidly expanding cohort of patients aging with NMDs. Children with NMDs are expected to live longer into adulthood; a population that we may not have the workforce to support at this time. At this point, we have the perfect opportunity to reemphasize the importance of rehabilitation in the care of persons with NMDs, while we reexamine historical rehabilitation practices and innovatively deliver services to optimize the effects of these high-cost DMTs.

The Impact of Virtual Reality as a Rehabilitation Method Using TRAVEE System on Functional Outcomes and Disability in Stroke Patients: A Pilot Study

Background: Stroke is the third leading cause of disability. Virtual reality (VR) has shown promising results in post-stroke rehabilitation. The VR TRAVEE system was designed for the neuromotor rehabilitation of the upper limb after a stroke and offers the ability to track limb movements by providing auditory feedback and visual augmentation. The World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0), aligned with the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) principles, is a valid tool for measuring disability regardless of its cause. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of the VR TRAVEE system in upper limb rehabilitation for stroke patients. Methods: A total of 14 stroke patients with residual hemiparesis were enrolled in the study. They underwent a 10-day program combining conventional therapy (CnvT) with VR rehabilitation. At baseline (T0), the upper limb was assessed using the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), active range of motion (AROM), and the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) for pain. These assessments were repeated after the 10-day rehabilitation program (T1). Additionally, disability was measured using WHODAS 2.0 at T0 and again 30 days after completing the program. Results: Significant improvements were observed in AROM and MAS scores for the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and metacarpophalangeal joints, as well as in the reduction in shoulder pain (p ˂ 0.001). WHODAS scores decreased across all six domains, with a statistically significant improvement in the Cognition domain (p = 0.011). Conclusions: Combining CnvT with VR as a rehabilitation approach enhances motor function in the upper limb. This method has the potential to reduce disability scores and promote neuroplasticity.

The Effectiveness Of Physical Therapy And Rehabilitation Approaches In Low Back Pain On Pain Severity And Disability; A Systematic Review

Low Back Pain encompasses nociceptive pain, neuropathic pain radiating to the legs, and nociplastic pain, often classified as non-specific due to central nervous system exaggeration. Globally, Low Back Pain is a leading cause of activity restriction and loss of productivity, significantly impacting finances. Objective; This study aimed to review the efficacy of physical therapy and rehabilitation approaches for LBP, focusing on pain intensity and disability. Materials and Methods; A literature review was conducted in PubMed and Web of Science databases up to January 30, 2024. English studies were required, using keywords: “low back pain,” “pain intensity,” “pain severity,” “disability,” and “physical therapy.” Pain intensity was measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), including the 11-point Pain Intensity Numerical Rating Scale (PI-NRS). Disability was assessed using ADL, IADL scales, Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ), and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Results; Seven study met the inclusion criteria from 665 initial records. Interventions included osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), core muscle exercise with interferential current (IFC), cognitive functional therapy (CFT), dry cupping therapy, high-intensity machine-based core muscle resistance training (C-IPU), heat therapy, TENS, pelvic traction, Reiki, dynamic muscular stabilization technique (DMST), and McGill Big 3 (MB3). Sample sizes ranged from 30 to 1090 participants. IFC combined with core muscle exercises significantly reduced pain intensity compared to each method alone, though not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The C-IPU group had greater pain relief (P 0.05). Dry cupping did not outperform sham cupping. CFT reduced absenteeism in the first two years but not later. Reiki showed significant improvement in pain and ADL compared to drug therapy, but not to physiotherapy. Conclusions; Physical therapy interventions effectively alleviate symptoms and improve outcomes in LBP. However, variability in interventions and outcome measures necessitates cautious interpretation. Further research with standardized protocols is essential to understand the effectiveness and optimal duration of physical therapy for LBP. Keywords; low back pain; pain intensity; pain severity; disability; physical therapy

The challenge of thigh tendon reinjuries: an expert opinion.

This review critically examines the issue of thigh tendon reinjury in athletes, drawing on recent advancements and diverse perspectives in sports medicine. The findings underscore the paramount importance of an early and accurate diagnosis, which significantly influences treatment efficacy and rehabilitation outcomes. We explore the intricacies of tendon anatomy and the mechanisms underlying injuries, highlighting how these factors interplay with athlete-specific risk profiles to affect reinjury rates. A major finding from the review is the necessity for individualized rehabilitation approaches that integrate both traditional methods and emerging technologies. These technologies show promise in enhancing monitoring and facilitating precise adjustments to rehabilitation protocols, thus improving recovery trajectories. Additionally, the review identifies a common shortfall in current practices- premature to play (RTP)- which often results from inadequate adherence to tailored rehabilitation strategies or underestimation of the injury's severity. Such premature RTP significantly heightens the risk of further injury. Through this synthesis of contemporary research and expert opinion, the review advocates for a multidisciplinary approach in managing thigh tendon injuries, emphasizing the need for ongoing research to refine RTP criteria and optimize rehabilitation techniques. The ultimate goal is to support athletes in achieving safer and more effective recoveries, thereby reducing the likelihood of tendon reinjury.