Stabilometric Platform Research Articles

REHABILITATION OF PATIENTS WITH CERVICAL AND LUMBAR SPINE INSTABILITY USING TYMO ROBOTIC STABILOMETRICAL PLATFORM.

Introduction. The musculoskeletal system plays a vital role in maintaining posture and facilitating human movement, with the muscles often subjected to significant stress. Stabilometry can be used for evaluating postural balance and aiding in rehabilitation. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of the TYMO robotic stabilometric platform for the rehabilitation of patients with cervical and lumbar spine instability.Participants and methods. The study was conducted on the stable platform TYMO (Tyromotion). The study included 30 healthy students (group 1), 28 patients with instability of the cervical vertebra, who underwent standard rehabilitation treatment (group 2), 28 patients with instability of the cervical vertebra, who additionally used with a stabiloplatform (group 3), 29 patients with with instability of the lumbar spine, who received standard rehabilitation treatment (group 4), 29 patients with instability of the lumbar spine, who were additionally treated with a stabiloplatform (group 5). Groups 3 and 5, alongside with standard rehabilitation treatment, received a 10-day course involving stabiloplatform training. The parameters of the Center of Force (COF) section and load distribution were analyzed. Results and Discussion. When analyzing the respective indices across all groups in various functional positions prior to the treatment, the values were significantly increased. The use of the stabiloplatform proved to be effective in the treatment of patients, leading to the normalization of these indices. Notably, its application yielded a lasting therapeutic effect, whereas conventional physiotherapeutic methods fell short in achieving a lasting impact. Conclusions: Patients with cervical or lumbar spine instability demonstrate impaired balance test indicators. Following a 10-day treatment regimen with traditional rehabilitation methods, improvements are observed across all indicators, but they do not fully restore to the control levels in all functional positions. Furthermore, after one month, indicators deteriorate in nearly all functional positions. Training using a stabiloplatform is an effective approach in the treatment of patients with cervical or lumbar spine instability, and its use demonstrates a sustained therapeutic benefit.

The Influence of Listening to Preferred versus Non-Preferred Music on Static and Dynamic Balance in Middle-Aged Women.

Although many women perform postural tasks while listening to music, no study has investigated whether preferred music has different effects than non-preferred music. Thus, this study aimed to explore the effects of listening to preferred versus non-preferred music on postural balance among middle-aged women. Twenty-four women aged between 50 and 55 years were recruited for this study. To assess their static balance, a stabilometric platform was used, recording the mean center of pressure velocity (CoPVm), whereas the timed up and go test (TUGT) was used to assess their dynamic balance. The results showed that listening to their preferred music significantly decreased their CoPVm values (in the firm-surface/eyes-open (EO) condition: (p < 0.05; 95% CI [-0.01, 2.17])). In contrast, when the women were listening to non-preferred music, their CoPVm values significantly (p < 0.05) increased compared to the no-music condition in all the postural conditions except for the firm-surface/EO condition. In conclusion, listening to music has unique effects on postural performance, and these effects depend on the genre of music. Listening to preferred music improved both static and dynamic balance in middle-aged women, whereas listening to non-preferred music negatively affected these performances, even in challenged postural conditions.

The effect of kinesiotherapy supported by visual biofeedback on a stabilometric platform on health-related quality of life among patients with non-specific low back pain. A randomized, open-label study with a 6-month follow-up

The effect of kinesiotherapy supported by visual biofeedback on a stabilometric platform on health-related quality of life among patients with non-specific low back pain. A randomized, open-label study with a 6-month follow-up

Postural Instability and Risk of Falls in Patients with Parkinson's Disease Treated with Deep Brain Stimulation: A Stabilometric Platform Study.

Postural instability (PI) in Parkinson's disease (PD) exposes patients to an increased risk of falls (RF). While dopaminergic therapy and deep brain stimulation (DBS) improve motor performance in advanced PD patients, their effects on PI and RF remain elusive. PI and RF were assessed using a stabilometric platform in six advanced PD patients. Patients were evaluated in OFF and ON dopaminergic medication and under four DBS settings: with DBS off, DBS bilateral, and unilateral DBS of the more- or less-affected side. Our findings indicate that dopaminergic medication by itself exacerbated PI and RF, and DBS alone led to a decline in RF. No combination of medication and DBS yielded a superior improvement in postural control compared to the baseline combination of OFF medication and the DBS-off condition. Yet, for ON medication, DBS significantly improved both PI and RF. Among DBS conditions, DBS bilateral provided the most favorable outcomes, improving PI and RF in the ON medication state and presenting the smallest setbacks in the OFF state. Conversely, the more-affected side DBS was less beneficial. These preliminary results could inform therapeutic strategies for advanced PD patients experiencing postural disorders.

Frequency-dependent tuning of the human vestibular “sixth sense” by transcranial oscillatory currents

ObjectiveThe vestibular cortex is a multisensory associative region that, in neuroimaging investigations, is activated by slow-frequency (1–2 Hz) galvanic stimulation of peripheral receptors. We aimed to directly activate the vestibular cortex with biophysically modeled transcranial oscillatory current stimulation (tACS) in the same frequency range. MethodsThirty healthy subjects and one rare patient with chronic bilateral vestibular deafferentation underwent, in a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial, to tACS at slow (1 or 2 Hz) or higher (10 Hz) frequency and sham stimulations, over the Parieto-Insular Vestibular Cortex (PIVC), while standing on a stabilometric platform. Subjective symptoms of motion sickness were scored by Simulator Sickness Questionnaire and subjects’ postural sways were monitored on the platform. ResultstACS at 1 and 2 Hz induced symptoms of motion sickness, oscillopsia and postural instability, that were supported by posturographic sway recordings. Both 10 Hz-tACS and sham stimulation on the vestibular cortex did not affect vestibular function. As these effects persisted in a rare patient with bilateral peripheral vestibular areflexia documented by the absence of the Vestibular-Ocular Reflex, the possibility of a current spread toward peripheral afferents is unlikely. Conversely, the 10 Hz-tACS significantly reduced his chronic vestibular symptoms in this patient. ConclusionsWeak electrical oscillations in a frequency range corresponding to the physiological cortical activity of the vestibular system may generate motion sickness and postural sways, both in healthy subjects and in the case of bilateral vestibular deafferentation. SignificanceThis should be taken into account as a new side effect of tACS in future studies addressing cognitive functions. Higher frequencies of stimulation applied to the vestibular cortex may represent a new interventional option to reduce motion sickness in different scenarios.

Effects of 12 weeks of caffeine supplementation and Zumba training on postural balance and cognitive performances in middle-aged women

The researchers aimed to examine the effect of 12-week supplementing (100 mg/day) caffeine with Zumba training on postural and cognitive performances in middle-aged women. Fifty-six middle-aged women who participated in this study, were randomized into; a caffeine-Zumba (CZG), Zumba (ZG) and control groups. In two-testing sessions, postural balance was evaluated using a stabilometric platform, and for cognitive performances, Simple Reaction Time and Corsi Block-Tapping Task tests were used. We found that ZG and CZG showed a significant improvement in postural balance on the firm surface condition (p < .05) in the post- compared to pretest session. Whereas, ZG showed no significant improvement in postural performance on the foam surface condition. Only CZG revealed significant enhancements (p < .05) in cognitive and postural, in the foam surface condition, performances. In conclusion, supplementing caffeine with 12-week Zumba training was effective in improving both cognitive and postural balance, even in challenging conditions, performances in middle-aged women.

Exposure to emotions and postural stability in deaf youth

IntroductionThe population of deaf people is a heterogeneous group. Understanding the significant variables that affect motor, socio-emotional and cognitive development sets the direction and quality for subsequent developmental stages and provides the opportunity to select appropriate compensatory methods for deaf individuals.AimThe aim of the study was to verify the visual effect of the emotions of joy and anger on one of the dimensions of eye-hand coordination, i.e. postural stability among deaf and hearing youth.Material and methodsStudy subjects: 120 teenagers aged 13–17 years. The test group comprised 60 subjects with profound bilateral sensorineural hearing loss, while the control group comprised 60 hearing junior high school students. The study used a computerised stabilometric platform and photographs sourced from an affective image database Montreal Set of Facial Displays of Emotion.Results and discussionIn deaf youth, a switch in the stability of the body occurs, as compared to hearing youth. The results obtained indicate the need for the activation of cognitive, emotional and motor resources of deaf people with an area of multiple modalities taken into account.ConclusionsHuman development should be regarded as a continual process in relation to compensatory capacity.

Receiver Operating Characteristic Analysis of Posture and Gait Parameters to Prevent Frailty Condition and Fall Risk in the Elderly

Prevention strategies should be constantly improved to manage falls and frailty in the elderly. Therefore, we aimed at creating a screening and predictive protocol as a replicable model in clinical settings. Bioimpedance analysis was conducted on fifty subjects (mean age 76.9 ± 3.69 years) to obtain body composition; then, posture was analysed with a stabilometric platform. Gait performance was recorded by a 10 m walking test, six-minute walking test, and timed up and go test. After 12 months, subjects were interviewed to check for fall events. Non-parametric analysis was used for comparisons between fallers and non-fallers and between able and frail subjects. ROC curves were obtained to identify the predictive value of falling risk and frailty. Path length (area under the curve, AUC = 0.678), sway area (AUC = 0.727), and sway speed (AUC = 0.778) resulted predictive factors of fall events (p &lt; 0.05). The six-minute walking test predicted frailty condition (AUC = 0.840). Timed up and go test was predictive of both frailty (AUC = 0.702) and fall events (AUC = 0.681). Stabilometry and gait tests should be, therefore, included in a screening protocol for the elderly to prevent fall events and recognize the condition of frailty at an early stage.

Assessment of Hip Joint Function and Limb Load in Patients after Cementless Hip Arthroplasty During 14-day Rehabilitation

Abstract Background Arthoplasty is a surgical procedure consisting in replacing a natural joint altered by the disease process with an artificial joint. This surgery allows you to restore the lost function of the hip joint. Comprehensive rehabilitation plays an essential role after surgery. Objectives The aim of the study was to assess the impact of rehabilitation on patients on the 1st and 14th day of rehabilitation after cementless hip arthroplasty on the load on the operated limb and to assess the function of the hip joint. Material and methods The studies were performed on a group of 44 patients with post-surgery rehabilitation.The studies were performed twice: on the 1st and 14th day of rehabilitation. The standardized questionnaires was used: Harris Hip Score and WOMAC. The reaction of ground forces was assessed using the Alpha stabilometric platform. Results The average point value indicated on the Harris Scale significantly increased in the measurement on the 14th day of rehabilitation by 8.57 ± 6.56 points (p &lt; 0.001). On the other hand, the WOMAC Scale showed a decrease in point values in the second measurement by 9.67 ± 6.76 points (p &lt; 0.001). A significant increase in the average load on the operated lower limb by 3.68 ± 3.18% was indicated as measured on the 14th day of rehabilitation (p &lt; 0.001). The difference between the average load of the right and left limbs in the measurement on the first day of rehabilitation was an average of 9.77%, while on the fourteenth day of rehabilitation the difference between the average load of the right and left limbs decreased to an average of 3.5%. Conclusions Postsurgery rehabilitation allows to obtain physiological load ranges of the lower limbs, striving for a 50% share in the load of each of the lower limbs. The effectiveness of the implemented rehabilitation is confirmed on the basis of the analysed limb load parameters and the analysis of patients’ subjective assessments made using standardized questionnaires.

Study on Balance and Postural Control According to the Stabilometry in Indoor Skydivers: A Cross-Sectional Study

The wind tunnel is a compression cabin through which a stream of air rises homogeneously, generated by fans. To perform different acrobatics, indoor skydivers have to change their body position by turning their body and orientation in reference to the space. Thus, the vestibular, visual and somatosensory systems are subjected to multiple disturbances. Postural control could be affected by altering the visual, vestibular and somatosensory systems during indoor skydiving in the wind tunnel. The aim of this study is to describe the influence of a standard wind tunnel training session on postural control in a normal gravitational situation in indoor skydiving. Ten indoor skydivers registered with the Royal Spanish Aeronautical Federation, who had participated in national or international competitions one year ago, were recruited. A single 30 min training session was performed. Postural control was assessed through posturographic analysis using a stabilometric platform immediately before and after the training session. The variables studied were related to the relative position and length of the centre of pressure. No statistically significant changes were found between the initial and final assessment for the posturographic variables studied. No differences in postural control were found after a standard wind tunnel training session in indoor competition skydivers.

Application of non-drug methods in rehabilitation programs to improve the quality of life of patients after lower limb joint endoprosthetics

BACKGROUND: All over the world, osteoarthritis is a common disease and accounts for 10% of all diseases in the population, and therefore, the frequency of large joint arthroplasty continues to increase, which determines the need to develop new methods of complex treatment in the rehabilitation of patients after arthroplasty operations.&#x0D; AIM: Scientific substantiation of the expediency of the complex use of a stabilometric multifunctional platform with biofeedback and light therapy in patients after arthroplasty of the joints of the lower extremities to improve the quality of life in the late recovery period.&#x0D; MATERIAL AND METHODS: 60 patients were examined three months after total joint replacement of the lower limb at the age of 55 to 75 years. All patients were randomly divided into three groups of 20 people comparable in terms of clinical and functional characteristics. Patients of the main group were exposed to monochromatic polarized incoherent light and underwent physical training using a stabilometric complex with biofeedback COBS (mtd-Systems, Germany), in the comparison group, patients received therapeutic exercises on a stabilometric simulator with biofeedback, patients the control group received only a standard rehabilitation complex and drug therapy, which served as a background in the main group and the comparison group.&#x0D; RESULTS: Prior to the start of treatment, when analyzing the indicators of static and dynamic stabilometric studies, an uneven distribution of the load was established during tests with a preponderance towards the healthy leg. After a course of treatment, patients of all groups showed statistically significant positive results, however, a more pronounced improvement in indicators was observed in patients of the main group, less pronounced, but statistically significant results were obtained in the comparison group, and insignificant positive dynamics was noted in patients of the control group. When studying the quality of life and the effectiveness of treatment according to the EQ-5D questionnaire in the examined patients in the initial state, the indicator averaged 6.60.8 points. After the course of treatment, patients of the main group showed a statistically significant decrease in the scores of the EQ-5D questionnaire from 6.70.9 points in the initial state to 4.20.9 (p 0.001), which lasted up to 6 months. In patients of the comparison group, in all periods of observation, a decrease in the indicator was also noted, but less pronounced, in patients of the control group ― only a positive trend. The findings were supported by the results of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).&#x0D; CONCLUSION: The use of a comprehensive rehabilitation program with the inclusion of a stabilometric platform with biofeedback and polarized light "Bioptron" contributes to a marked improvement in the state of balance, balance and coordination abilities of patients, normalization of muscle tone, a significant reduction in anxiety and depression and can significantly improve the quality of life of patients with endoprostheses in the late recovery period.

Effect of a 10-Week Sensomotor Exercise Program on Balance and Agility in Adolescent Football Players: A Randomised Control Trial

The main aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a 10-week sensomotor exercise programme on body balance and agility in a group of adolescent athletes. Initially, 120 adolescent football players were included in the study. In the final analysis, 90 athletes aged 10–17 years participated. The study was designed as a single-blinded, randomised controlled trial. Healthy athletes who met the inclusion criteria were randomly divided into two comparative groups: experimental and control groups. Sensomotor exercises were conducted twice weekly for 10 weeks in the experimental group. The adolescent footballers were subjected to the following tests: a COP (Centre of Pressure) test on a stabilometric platform, a Y balance test (Y-BT), and an agility test. The experimental group showed improvement with respect to the following variables: COP-based path length, with eyes open, for 30 s duration—improved by 5.3 cm (mean: 20.0; 95% CI 15.3–24.8); area, with eyes open, for 30 s duration—improved by 1 cm2 (mean 2.1; 95% CI 0.6–3.5); area, with eyes closed, for 30 s duration—improved by 0.4 cm2 (mean 2.2; 95% CI 1.6–2.8). The Y-BT was significantly improved in terms of the final score for the following variables: left leg anterior by 2.1% (mean 73.1; 95% CI 70.7–75.2); right leg posterolateral by 3.8% (mean 112.3; 95% CI 109.3–115.3); right and left leg posteromedial by 5.6% (mean 111.7; 95% CI 108.6–114.9) and 5.7% (mean 112.3; 95% CI 109.7–115.1), respectively; medium posterolateral by 3.2% (mean 111.8; 95% CI 109.0–114.7); medium posteromedial by 6.0% (mean 112.0; 95% CI 109.2–115.0); and Y total score by 3.5% (mean 98.8; 95% CI 96.6–100.9). The agility test in the experimental group was improved by 1.6 s (mean 13.2; 95% CI 12.6–14.0). A 10-week programme of additional sensomotor exercises improved selected parameters determining balance and agility in the young football players.

The Influence of Weight Loss in Postural Control in Women Undergoing Sleeve Gastrectomy.

Bariatric surgery is the most effective procedure for obesity management, with a greater body weight loss and the remission of several diseases. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationships between the anthropometric profile and postural control outcomes in a group of obese adult women, and the effect of bariatric surgery on postural control. eighty-eight women candidates for bariatric surgery were recruited. Static balance was measured with the ARGO stabilometric platform under two conditions: open eyes (OE) and closed eyes (CE). Multiple linear regression indicated BMI as the first predictor for postural control in all parameters, except for APO in open eyes, predicted mainly by height. Changes in body weight and BMI showed no statistically significant correlations with modification of postural control parameters (OE), while they appeared to exert an influence under closed eyes conditions. Before surgery, obese patients with a higher BMI showed a better postural control. After surgery, the sway path and antero-posterior oscillation improved under open eyes conditions, while the magnitude of weight loss was negatively correlated with differences in postural control.

Stationary rehabilitation robot and functional electrostimulation for the treatment of patients in the initial six months after stroke: a randomized controlled trial

Background: Results from studies investigating the effects of rehabilitation robots, including those using robots combined with functional electrostimulation (FES), on gait quality and postural control post-stroke are conflicting. Therefore, the evidence supporting the use of this approach to rehabilitation remains inconclusive and further research is required into how robotic therapy and FES can improve gait function and postural control at different times after stroke. Aim of the study: To gain knowledge on the effectiveness of stationary robotic exercises, and robotic exercises combined with FES of the lower extremity muscles, on activities of daily living, gait quality, postural control, and quality of life, in people who were between one and six months post-stroke. Material and Methods: A randomized controlled clinical pilot study was conducted. Forty-three post-stroke patients hospitalized at a rehabilitation center were randomly assigned to the following three groups: the GEO Group, for whom stationary robotic exercises were provided, the GEO+FES Group, for whom stationary robotic exercises were provided in combination with FES, and the Control Group, for whom conventional overground gait training was provided. Exercises were undertaken by all groups for 20 minutes a day, six days a week, for three weeks. In addition, all patients were provided with basic post-stroke therapy based on the principles of best clinical practice. All patients were assessed for stroke symptoms before and after therapy using the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), for independence in activities of daily living using the Barthel Index, and for quality of life using the Stroke Impact Scale Questionnaire. Static and dynamic postural control and gait performance were assessed using the Berg Balance Scale, the Timed Up and Go Test, the Functional Reach Test, and the 10 Meter Walk Test. Static postural control and gait quality were also assessed using a treadmill with a stabilometric platform. Results. Exercising on a stationary robot, both with and without FES of the lower extremity muscles, contributed to a statistically significant reduction in stroke symptoms (NIHSS, p&lt;0.05). Additionally, exercising on a stationary robot without FES application significantly improved patient quality of life (p&lt;0.05). However, these effects were not significantly different between the experimental and control groups. Conclusions. Stationary robotic exercise, either with or without FES, can be used as a substitute for traditional overground gait training to reduce stroke symptoms and improve quality of life in the first six months post-stroke. They can also be used as exercises to augment standard post-stroke therapy.

The role of targeted physiotherapy in the group of patients diagnosed with epilepsy

Introduction: Epilepsy is a chronic disease characterised by a predisposition to the occurrence of recurrent and unprovoked seizures. Due to the unpredictability of the disease (due to the possibility of seizures occurring at any time), the quality of life of these patients is drastically reduced. Stigmatisation of patients with epilepsy is common all over the world and concerns not only developing countries, but also those already highly developed. Patients with epilepsy show less activity in many areas of everyday life, including physical activity (they exercise less than the general public), and also have a lower level of mobility. This may be a significant factor contributing to the observation of balance disorders this group (from discrete, unnoticeable by them and the environment, to clinically manifesting instability of posture). So far, however, this has not been possible to clearly document, and to date, the standards for rehabilitation in this group of patients have not been established. However, it is widely known that balance disorders, apart from epileptic seizures, decrease quality of life.In the control of postural disorders, the co-ordination of the visual, somatosensory and vestibular systems is necessary. The cortical representation of the visual and sensory systems can be analysed during electroencephalographic recording. Additionally, the Biodex Balance SD stabilometric platform is an objective tool used to confirm imbalances. The application of this diagnostic device allows to quickly determine the exact type of imbalance that can subsequently undergo targeted physiotherapy. Research objective: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of targeted physiotherapy in a group of patients diagnosed with epilepsy of unknown etiology and balance disorders. Materials and methods: Patients diagnosed with generalised epilepsy of unknown etiology took part in the study. They were treated at the neurology ward or clinic of John Paul II Specialist Hospital in Krakow. The patients were examined 3 times at monthly intervals using the following methods: - EEG testing, - SF-36 quality of life questionnaire, - Biodex SD stabilometric platform. In addition, between the 2nd and 3rd months of the study, the patients underwent physiotherapy for balance disorders (3 times a week for 1 month, each session lasting 30 minutes). Results: In 10 patients who were subjected to selective physiotherapy using the Biodex SD stabilometric platform, objective improvement in balance stability was noted. All patients also reported oral improvement in the sense of postural stability after the completion of the rehabilitative treatment. Conclusions: Targeted physiotherapy in a group of patients with diagnosed epilepsy of undetermined etiology, and accompanying balance disorders has a positive impact on their daily functioning.

Risk of Single and Multiple Injuries Due to Static Balance and Movement Quality in Physically Active Women.

Background: Static balance is a reliable indicator of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, which is a basis for movement stabilization development. The disorders in this area may increase injury risk (IR). This study investigated the musculoskeletal injury risk due to static balance and movement quality regarding single and multiple injury occurrences in physically active women. Methods: The study sample was 88 women aged 21.48 ± 1.56. The injury data were obtained with a questionnaire, and Deep Squat (DS), In-line lunge (IL), and Hurdle Step (HS) tests were conducted. Static balance was assessed with a stabilometric platform measured center of gravity area circle (AC) and path length (PL) with open (OE) and closed eyes (CE), maintaining a standing position for the 30 s. Results: The logistic regression models revealed the general injury occurrence was predicted by AC-CE (OR = 0.70; p = 0.03) and IL (OR = 0.49; p = 0.03), and the two-factor model AC-CE*IL, (OR = 1.40; p < 0.01). When the single injury was predicted by the same factors AC-CE (OR = 0.49; p < 0.01), IL (OR = 0.36; p = 0.01), and AC-CE*IL (OR = 1.58; p < 0.01). Conclusion: Static balance and movement stability predict musculoskeletal injury risk alone and in one model. A further study is needed to verify the efficiency of indicated factors in prospective terms. Using both quantitative and qualitative tests could be helpful in IR prediction.

Game-based virtual reality solution for post-stroke balance rehabilitation

In recent years, there has been a remarkable decline in stroke-related mortality. However, it remains one of the leading causes of death and the most prominent cause of lifelong disability in adults. This positive development results from increased accessibility to various stroke treatment options. In addition, the use of virtual reality in rehabilitation offers a possible alternative to traditional methods of medical rehabilitation of the upper limbs, improving muscle strength or balance. An early diagnosis of equilibrium deficits brings an incredible contribution to recovery. Analysis tests using stabilometric platforms have begun to be used more recently due to the advantages offered. This assessment method highlights and analyzes balance disorders and determines the body's center of gravity position through several sensors or arrays of sensors that transmit information to the processing software. This work aimed to develop a low-cost, stabilometric platform that could be used to build a recovery system using virtual reality-based games. The developed platform uses an Arduino UNO microcontroller that takes data from 4 force sensors. Two applications have been created. The first one was for balance maintenance and the second for execute balance exercises in the anteroposterior and mediolateral direction.

Thoracic surgery may alter body static balance via diaphragm dysfunction.

Many diseases and conditions can alter an ability to maintain body balance. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether thoracic surgery may elicit diaphragm dysfunction thereby impairing postural stability. 40 patients qualified to video-assisted thoracoscopy (VATS) lobectomy or lobectomy via thoracotomy due to pulmonary carcinoma were examined two times: a day before lung resection and 3–5 days after surgical procedure. Diaphragm assessment was performed using ultrasonography, while postural sways were evaluated by Zebris FDM-S stabilometric platform. Thoracic surgery was associated with decrease of diaphragm thickness and movement, as well as, with deterioration of static body balance maintenance. Upper lobe resection was linked with greater diaphragm excursion restriction and worse body sway parameters than middle and lower lobe resection. VATS lobectomy was associated with better postoperative diaphragm function and better postural sway parameters than lobectomy via thoracotomy. Patients after lobectomy via thoracotomy had significantly more load on lower limb on the operated side than patients after VATS lobectomy. Impairment of diaphragm function is closely associated with equilibrium impairment after pulmonary resection. VATS lobectomy was less invasive than lobectomy via thoracotomy in terms of primary respiratory muscle function and body balance maintenance parameters.

Relación de una valoración estabilométrica en el adulto mayor con test clínicos de equilibrio estático y dinámico

BackgroundPostural control is a key element to maintain balance since the decrease in the functionality of motor and sensory systems is directly related to the increased risk of falls. Currently, the use of stabilometry has been extended as an instrumental means to evaluate postural control. AimThe aim of this study was to establish the relationship between functional tests of static and dynamic balance with the main stabilometric parameters, determining if there are differences between sexes. Material and methodFifty-five women (X¯±σ=71.8±6.6 years) and 19 men (X¯±σ=73.9±4.3 years) participated in this study. Three tests were used as functional tests for the evaluation of static balance: feet together, semi-tandem and tandem. To assess dynamic balance, the Timed Up and Go test was used. Stabilometric analysis was performed with a Podoprint Aluminum platform, on which two tests were performed, one with eyes open and the other closed. ResultsThe men obtained better results in the static balance test, but they registered worse figures of surface and average speed in the stabilometric platform. The mean speed exceeded normal in both sexes. A positive association was found between the time spent on the TUG and a greater surface area on the platform in women. ConclusionWe found an association between the clinical static balance tests and the stabilometric parameters of mean speed and displacements in both axes in both sexes, as well as between the TUG and the surface parameter in the female group.

Whole-Body Vibration Associated with Strength Training on the Lower-Limb Blood Flow and Mobility in Older Adults with Type 2 Diabetes: A Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.

Vascular endothelium insults caused by high serum glucose levels affect the oxygen supply to tissues, via the microvascular endothelium, resulting in an increased perfusion heterogeneity. These insults may lead to the underuse of blood capillaries, while other vessels are overused and effectively overload their oxygen supply capacity, which eventually causes damages to distal parts of the peripheral nervous system. Therefore, the proprioceptive and exteroceptive feedback information will be gradually lost and contribute to a mobility reduction. This study aims to assess the efficacy of whole-body vibration (WBV) associated with strength training (ST) on lower-limb blood flow and mobility in older adults with type 2 diabetes (DM2). Methods and analyses: This is a protocol (1st version) for Pa single-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial guided by the SPIRIT guidelines. Our sample will consist of 51 older adults with DM2 randomly allocated to three groups: low frequency WBV (16–26 Hz) associated to ST (G1), WBV sham (G2) and nonintervention control (G3). The study protocol is set for a 12-week (three times per week) schedule. Primary outcomes: skin temperature using infrared thermographic imaging (ITI); mean peripheral arterial blood flow velocity (MBF) by a handheld Doppler ultrasound (DU), and functional mobility by Timed Up and Go (TUG) test. Secondary outcomes: quasi-static posture using the DX100 BTS Smart optoelectronic system, and plantar pressure and body balance using the MPS stabilometric platform. Data will be collected and analyzed at baseline and post-intervention, considering p-value < 0.05 level of significance. The analyses will also be conducted with an intention-to-treat method and effect size. Dissemination: All results will be published in peer-reviewed journals as well as presented in conferences.