A rapid systematic review found that rehabilitation programmes can give hope and confidence to patients, while tailored approaches can help individuals recover from severe respiratory illness. Early mobilization and progressive exercise were key components in improving recovery outcomes.
Researchers found that the brain's ability to recover and rewire itself peaks around two weeks after a stroke and diminishes over time. This 'window of opportunity' suggests that initiating therapy as soon as possible is crucial for effective recovery.
A light-weight, wirelessly controlled brain stimulator has been developed to treat cerebral infarction using wearable wireless ultrasound devices. The device significantly improved motor functions in a rat stroke model, paving the way for non-invasive neurorehabilitation therapy.
A study of 214 children found that final diagnoses differ from referral diagnoses in 54% of cases, with asthma being the most common cause. Inhaling medication was prescribed to 91% of children with a final diagnosis of asthma, while physiotherapy was recommended for 50% of those with dysfunctional breathing.
Researchers discovered that overexpressing protein kinase A (PKA) improves muscle resistance to fatigue in mice by suppressing FoxO proteins and increasing oxidative potential. This study offers a potential solution for treating atrophy and promoting muscle growth without severe side effects.
A new study shows that methotrexate significantly improves physical function and reduces inflammation in adults with primary knee osteoarthritis. Patients who received methotrexate treatment had improvements in WOMAC scores and reduced inflammatory markers, while those taking glucosamine showed no significant benefits.
Two widely used fall prevention programs, multi-factorial fall prevention and exercise for increased falls risk, have been shown to be ineffective in reducing fractures in older adults. Despite their widespread use in health services internationally, these interventions were found to have no impact on fracture rates.
A new study found that gabapentin, a commonly used drug for chronic pelvic pain, is no more effective than a placebo in treating the condition. Researchers recommend exploring alternative therapies such as physiotherapy and cognitive behavioural therapy instead.
A Norwegian study shows that a structured conservative therapy programme can improve quality of care, increase patient satisfaction, and delay the need for surgery. The programme included patient education and exercise, leading to better outcomes for patients with osteoarthritis.
COVID-19 respiratory droplets spread through air, posing risks to health care professionals. Guidelines offer recommendations to reduce transmission, including PPE use and distancing measures.
Research from McMaster University suggests that high-intensity interval training can improve cardiorespiratory fitness in people with spinal cord injuries, matching the benefits of longer bouts of moderate intensity exercise. The study also found that HIIT is generally tolerable and poses few risks for this population.
The new guidelines aim to prevent complications of the respiratory system and muscle deconditioning, while also improving long-term physical function and recovery. Physiotherapists are essential in providing treatment and limiting ICU-acquired weakness.
A new study has found that music therapy sessions have a positive effect on the neurorehabilitation of acute stroke patients. The research, conducted at Anglia Ruskin University, showed that NMT helped improve mood regulation, concentration, and brain function through neural reorganisation.
Researchers have developed a system that uses virtual reality and 3D motion capture to provide guidance for physiotherapy exercises. The study found that participants could accurately follow the movements of a virtual avatar when it was accompanied by realistic footstep sounds, but struggled with visual information alone.
A recent CMAJ editorial emphasizes the importance of investing in social equity to address health disparities among low-income individuals. The authors highlight the persistent gaps in healthcare access and outcomes according to income, which result from poverty's association with various social determinants of health.
Media reports on chronic pain focus on opioid-based treatments and cannabis, overlooking evidence-based non-pharmaceutical options. Research analysis reveals limited attention to adverse effects of medicinal cannabis and inadequate resources for pain management.
A new study by Swansea University found that women who value their own health are more likely to benefit from physiotherapy treatment for pelvic floor dysfunction. The research suggests that supporting patients to develop positive health values can enhance attendance and outcomes, potentially reducing the need for surgical intervention.
The study developed a comprehensive computational model of an intact knee joint to analyze the biomechanical response of soft-tissues under different meniscus conditions. The results suggested that a composite meniscal implant with a shell-core structure performed better than other options, restoring natural joint mechanics.
Research reveals disparities in physiotherapy provision across England, with patients in London and the North receiving more, while those in the South West receive less. Factors such as age, gender, and ethnicity impact access to physiotherapy, highlighting a need for parity in service provision.
Researchers detected a significant correlation between kinesiophobia and chronic musculoskeletal pain, with increased fear of movement linked to longer pain durations. In contrast, whiplash patients showed less influence from kinesiophobia, suggesting other factors at play.
Researchers at Kessler Foundation found that blindfolding a patient with spatial neglect improved her posture and gaze, reducing postural asymmetry. This study suggests eliminating visual input could increase spatial awareness on the contralesional side.
A recent Nordic collaboration study found no significant difference in functional outcomes between operative and non-operative treatment in patients over 60 with displaced proximal humerus fractures. Non-operative treatment using a collar and cuff sling and physiotherapy was as effective as surgery in improving patient recovery.
A study by Professor Raquel Cantero of the University of Malaga has found a direct correlation between mobile phone use and thumb pain. The researcher predicts that changes in thumb use due to technology could lead to alterations in hand evolution.
Fishing workers in England and Wales experience poor general health, with 2.8% reporting 'bad' or 'very bad' health and 10.3% limited by long-term illness. The industry is facing social, environmental, and political change, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
A study by James Cook University found that pelvic floor exercises can effectively manage erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature ejaculation (PE) in men, with cure rates as high as 47% for ED and 83% for PE. Physiotherapists recommend non-invasive exercises to build strength and control.
Women are often prevented from seeking early treatment for pelvic organ prolapse due to confusion about symptoms and feelings of shame. The condition causes pain, incontinence, and psychological distress, but conservative treatments can be effective if detected early.
A new surgical procedure has been shown to improve movement and quality of life for children with cerebral palsy. The selective dorsal rhizotomy procedure involves cutting sensory nerves to relieve stiffness and pain. The study provided convincing evidence that the procedure helps children, with no significant health risks identified.
A new study by Lund University found that virtual reality can help individuals with long-term dizziness shift their reliance from vision to other senses for better balance. The study showed differences in how men and women are affected by VR, with more women needing additional practice to master this skill.
A new tool, SpinalLog, is being used at the University of Melbourne to help physiotherapy students master complex fine motor skills. The device provides real-time visual feedback on pressure patterns and technique used to mobilise the spine, improving students' ability to replicate force patterns.
Researchers found that patients who believed in their ability to overcome pain and continue with daily activities recovered faster than those who lacked this confidence. The study also showed that physiotherapy is effective for many people with shoulder pain, but not everyone.
A study of 22 participants with chronic musculoskeletal conditions found Pilates to increase active lifestyle, psychosocial benefits, and effective condition management. The programme facilitated improved function in daily activities, leading to psychological and social benefits that promoted a healthier lifestyle.
A comprehensive review by the European Psychiatric Association recommends exercise as a key treatment for mental health conditions, reducing symptoms of depression and schizophrenia. The guidelines suggest structured exercise, two to three times a week, can improve cognition, cardiorespiratory health, and overall well-being.
Researchers at Lobachevsky University explore the use of ozonized erythrocyte mass to correct acute blood loss. The study reveals that ozone treatment improves the rheological properties of blood and microcirculation, reducing tissue hypoxia and promoting rapid recovery.
A new study published in The BMJ found that decompression surgery for shoulder impingement syndrome offers no greater relief from pain than placebo surgery. Two years after the procedure, patients in both groups experienced equally little shoulder pain and were equally satisfied with their situation.
Researchers at Tohoku University found that whole-brain low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) therapy improved cognitive dysfunction in mice with vascular dementia and Alzheimer's disease. The treatment was shown to enhance blood vessel formation, nerve cell regeneration, and protein expression without serious side effects.
A study by the University of Kent found that mindfulness meditation can increase pain tolerance and mindful awareness in injured athletes. The research used Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) as an intervention for recovery, showing promising results. The study has major implications for treating sporting injuries at all levels.
Experts argue that persistent musculoskeletal pain without an obvious cause cannot be 'cured' and should be managed as other long-term conditions. Clinicians must be honest about what can be achieved, and patients need to take control of their condition through lifestyle changes.
A woman's experience of chronic pain in her left knee, thigh, and hip after getting a tattoo has led doctors to warn patients with compromised immune systems about the potential risks. Inflammatory myopathy, a condition characterized by muscle weakness and pain, was diagnosed after a biopsy revealed inflammation in her thigh muscle.
A 25-year-old prison inmate was left with a permanent disability after using synthetic cannabis, despite having no traditional cardiovascular risk factors. The case highlights the potential dangers of synthetic cannabis use and the need for greater awareness among young users.
Researchers have conducted the world's first randomized trial showing that hip arthroscopy is a more effective treatment for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome, a common cause of groin pain in young adults and athletes. The study found that patients improved significantly with hip arthroscopy compared to physiotherapy-led programmes.
Researchers are testing a neurostimulation technique using a vagus nerve stimulator to boost motor recovery in stroke patients with poor arm function. The study has shown promising results, with approximately 85% of participants benefiting from the treatment.
A global meta-analysis found that engaging in physical activity decreases the chance of developing depression in people of all ages and geographical regions. The study pooled data from over 250,000 individuals and found consistent evidence that higher levels of physical activity are protective against future depression.
Researchers at EPFL have discovered that the brain reroutes task-specific motor commands through alternative pathways originating in the brainstem and projecting to the spinal cord. This rewiring leads to new connections between the brain and spinal cord, enabling rats to regain control over their paralyzed limbs.
The study found that university students lack knowledge of responsible sexuality and family planning methods. Girls tend to have healthier attitudes and more knowledge about sexual health, but both sexes show little awareness of sexually transmitted infections. The researchers highlight the importance of sex education in universities.
A study published in PNAS suggests that video games can complement physical therapies to overcome attention deficit disorders, which contribute to motor skills disorders in stroke patients. The researchers analyzed brain injuries in 167 patients and found a connection between attention control areas and mobility problems.
A 28-year-old man experienced instant pain relief after undergoing a cold water swim following endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy. The procedure was successful but postoperative pain persisted, until the cold water plunge provided lasting relief. Further investigation is needed to confirm the effectiveness of this natural intervention.
ProjectDR enables clinicians to see patients' internal anatomy displayed right on the body, using motion-tracking and projection technologies. The system has vast applications in teaching, physiotherapy, laparoscopic surgery, and surgical planning.
A trial by The BMJ found that simple breathing training with a physiotherapist before surgery halves the incidence of postoperative respiratory complications. The researchers suggest this service could be considered for all patients awaiting upper abdominal surgery.
A study found that women's health values, work and achievement values, and spiritual values predict pelvic floor muscle training session attendance. Patients value relationships more strongly than other aspects of their lives, but these values don't necessarily influence treatment attendance.
A self-taught breathing retraining program shows similar results to face-to-face training with a physiotherapist in improving symptoms, mood, and ability to conduct day-to-day activities. The program is cheaper and less resource-intensive than physiotherapist training.
A study by the University of Southampton found that breathing exercises can significantly improve the quality of life for people with asthma. The interventions, which included DVD and face-to-face physiotherapy, reduced asthma attacks and lower NHS healthcare costs.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that common shoulder surgery does not provide significant relief from pain for people with shoulder impingement. Despite being slightly more effective than no treatment, the difference was small and unlikely to result in noticeable symptoms.
Recent revisions to major international guidelines for the management of low back pain recommend shifting from pain medicines to non-medicinal approaches such as yoga, mindfulness, and physiotherapy. GPs are now unlikely to prescribe pain medicines, encouraging a more holistic approach to treating LBP.
Addressing poor nutrition in liver failure patients is vital, as it can lead to muscle wasting, weakness, and fatigue. A new review emphasizes the need for routine nutritional screening, especially in those with muscle wasting, and highlights the importance of adequate caloric and protein intake.
A systematic review of 1169 studies found that exercise therapy alone is as effective as manual treatment combined with exercise for treating grade I-II neck pain. The researchers conclude that prescribing manual treatments in addition to exercise may not provide additional benefits, potentially reducing long queues and costs.
Researchers found that older adults improved movement performance when encouraged to make larger and faster movements, even if it meant making mistakes. This approach helped fine-tune their control and reduce variability in movement patterns.
A new study found a positive association between father's pre-conception vitamin D intake and child height and weight at 5 years old. Maternal vitamin D intake during pregnancy has previously been shown to have an impact on offspring health, but this is the first investigation into paternal vitamin D intake.
Scientists at Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne are developing intelligent neuroprosthetics that can decode brain signals and stimulate spinal cord muscles to facilitate walking movements. Clinical trials are currently underway to test the feasibility of these devices on patients with partial paralysis.
Research at the University of Sydney found that back pain is linked to a 13% increased risk of death in older Australians. The study controlled for shared genetic factors and suggests that spinal pain may be part of a pattern of poor health, increasing mortality risk.
A new study shows that specialized physical therapy exercises can improve the curve of the spine, muscle endurance and quality of life in teens with scoliosis. Researchers advocate for conservative management to be added to standard care.