Articles tagged with Physical Therapy
A special section of WORK: A Journal of Prevention, Assessment & Rehabilitation highlights the varying physical elements and requirements for different occupations. PES frameworks are being developed for a range of physically active occupations to support personnel undertaking physically demanding tasks.
Researchers question the high levels of ice used at summer Olympics, citing potential stress on local resources and lack of evidence-based practices. They advocate for more sustainable approaches and better data on ice consumption.
Researchers found that socially assistive robots improved stroke rehabilitation outcomes by encouraging people to continue their treatment in a non-judgmental setting. Participants who used the robots showed significant improvements in kinematic and clinical measures, including smoothness of movement and upper-extremity assessments.
A meta-analysis published in Ecopsychology found that even brief nature exposure can have a positive effect on symptomology, including affect, anxiety, and depression. The study suggests using nature exposure as an intervention to improve health and wellbeing for adults with mental illness.
A special issue of WORK Journal explores the importance of designing healthy workplaces that address musculoskeletal conditions, burnout, and chronic pain. The issue highlights the need for an interdisciplinary approach integrating medical, psychological, and occupational therapies to prevent work-related illness and injury.
A brain-computer interface therapy called RehabSwift has been shown to significantly enhance hand mobility in stroke survivors. Participants who used the system showed improvements in overall arm function, hand movement tests, reaction times, and hand strength after 18 sessions.
A world-first study found that walking regularly can reduce the recurrence of low back pain by almost twice as long as not exercising. The study, conducted by Macquarie University, followed 701 adults with a history of low back pain and randomly allocated them to either an individualized walking program or a control group.
Researchers at EPFL have published an open-source project Tabulae Paralytica, providing a comprehensive understanding of spinal cord injury biology. The study identifies specific neurons and genes involved in recovery and proposes a successful gene therapy derived from its discoveries.
Research from the University of South Australia found that people with knee OA unconsciously believe exercise is dangerous, despite medical advice. The study developed a tool to detect and evaluate these implicit beliefs, suggesting they can be a better predictor of actual behavior than reported attitudes.
A holistic approach to mental health management involves integrating medication with lifestyle changes, social support, and community engagement. This approach recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental factors affecting mental health, emphasizing individual rights and dignity.
A new study found that adults receiving chiropractic spinal manipulation for sciatica were less likely to be prescribed tramadol over the next year compared to those receiving usual medical care. Chiropractic care may offer a safer alternative to opioids for managing chronic low back pain and sciatica.
The prevalence of lung cancer mutations varies significantly across different ethnic groups in Latin America, highlighting the need for region-specific medical interventions. Enhancing molecular diagnostic and research efforts is crucial for effective management of cancer in this population.
A clinical trial found that video-only hand therapy is non-inferior to in-person therapy after thumb CMC arthroplasty, offering a more patient-driven approach with reduced travel burden. Video-administered therapy provided similar outcomes and significantly reduced travel distance and time for patients.
A study comparing progressive resistance training and neuromuscular exercise found no measurable difference in physical function, pain level, or quality of life between the two groups. The results suggest that patient involvement plays a crucial role in choosing an optimal training type for individual patients.
A new study found that combining pelvic floor exercises with behavioral therapy can be more effective than current medical treatments in helping men with frequent urges to urinate. The Bladder Emptying Disorder Therapy (BEST) Trial showed significant improvements in symptoms and quality of life measures after just 12 weeks.
Researchers from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev identified six barriers to consistent home physiotherapy exercises in vestibular rehabilitation, including motivation, increased symptoms, and psychosocial factors. The study offers actionable recommendations for clinicians to overcome these barriers and improve treatment outcomes.
A new telerehabilitation program has shown promising results in improving lower extremity recovery post-stroke. Participants experienced improvements in mobility and strength, as well as gained self-management skills to empower themselves and maintain their achievements.
Researchers developed a unique microfluidics-based diagnostic system that combines optical tweezers with stimulated Raman spectroscopy to enable fast and accurate diagnosis of leukemia. The device can identify cancer cells based on their metabolic activities and metabolites, providing tailored treatment options.
The Wim Hof method has been found to increase epinephrine levels and decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines, indicating a potential anti-inflammatory response. However, its impact on exercise performance is less clear, with some studies showing benefits and others finding no significant difference.
Kobe University scientists develop material guideline for high-efficiency PV cells, OLED displays and anti-cancer therapies by understanding energy transfer between molecules. The research enables aligned electron spin states to combine low-energy photons into a high-energy photon.
A study analyzing 15 exercise apps found limited options for frail older adults, with none adapted to users' cognitive needs. The researchers recommend involving end-users in app creation processes and focusing on simplicity and intuitive design.
A new study found that combining brain stimulation with intense physical rehabilitation helped stroke survivors recover movement in their arms and hands and maintain these improvements for one year. The pairing of rehabilitation therapy with vagus nerve stimulation likely helps the brain strengthen new neural pathways.
Researchers have developed a novel virtual reality-based relaxation therapy that helps cancer patients in palliative care manage symptoms and stress better. The therapy, known as FLOW-VRT-Relaxation, combines standard-of-care relaxation techniques with immersive VR experiences to promote psychological states of flourishing.
A recent trial assessed a novel combination of local vibration and extracorporeal shock wave therapy for the effective treatment of plantar fasciitis, with results showing significant reductions in plantar fascia thickness and heel pain. The study highlights a promising therapeutic intervention to treat this common musculoskeletal cond...
A clinical trial found that a tailored programme of physiotherapy after a dislocated shoulder offers no additional benefits over general advice, supporting materials, and self-referral to physiotherapy. The study's findings provide evidence-based guidance for non-operative rehabilitation.
Researchers from Tokyo University of Science discovered that manipulating polyamines enhances the functional profiles of monoclonal antibodies. The study found that controlling polyamine levels increases IgG galactosylation, leading to improved therapeutic efficacy.
Researchers at Boston University's Center for Neurorehabilitation have made two important advances that may help people with Parkinson's disease walk more smoothly. Wearable soft robotic apparel and a music-based technology were tested in studies, showing promising results in increasing walking duration and distance.
A soft, wearable robot was used to help a person living with Parkinson’s disease walk without freezing, eliminating the debilitating symptom and allowing them to regain their independence. The device provided instantaneous effects and consistently improved walking in a range of conditions.
A groundbreaking clinical trial found that hip-focused physical therapy outperforms spine-focused therapy in reducing disability from low back pain in adults aged 60-85. The study's results suggest a tailored approach can lead to faster improvements in low back pain disability, walking speed, and chair-rise performance.
Researchers have identified promising treatment candidates for morphine tolerance and cancer, as well as a biomarker for kidney injury. A monoclonal antibody targeting the mu-opioid receptor has been shown to alleviate morphine tolerance and physical dependence, while inducing excessive mitochondrial fission in tumor cells. Additionall...
Despite its cost-effective prevention for recurrent events, cardiac rehabilitation remains inaccessible to many due to lack of social support, particularly in poorer countries. Home-based rehabilitation and comprehensive lifelong healthy behavioral programs may help address these barriers.
A study found that only 60% of ED patients with fall-related head injury followed up with their PCP, while 56% adopted a fall prevention strategy. Physical therapy was the most common intervention, used by 68% of patients.
Researchers at Mainz University Medical Center aim to improve patients' quality of life by applying smart data technology to physical activity. The DECIDE project aims to provide individualized control of patients' daily physical activity, while the RELEVIUM project focuses on alleviating pain and weight loss in pancreatic cancer patie...
A new study found that racial and ethnic disparities persist in access to chiropractic care and physical rehabilitation for adults with low back pain, with Hispanic adults being less likely to use these services. The study also found that policy changes are needed to address these gaps in access, particularly in underserved communities.
A study showed that yoga therapy can improve heart failure patients' endurance, strength, balance, symptom stability, and overall quality of life. Additionally, echocardiographic parameters revealed improved left ventricular systolic function in the yoga group compared to the non-interventional group.
A recent Cleveland Clinic trial found that augmented reality therapy, such as the Dual-task augmented Reality Treatment (DART), can improve posture and stability in individuals with Parkinson's disease. The digital platform uses a headset to guide exercises and track progress, allowing for more widespread use of physical therapy.
A study of 805,000 patients found that receiving physical therapy after dizziness was associated with a significant reduction in fall risk over the next 12 months. The findings suggest that timely physical therapy referral for dizziness may be beneficial for these patients.
A study of Medicare beneficiaries with chronic low back pain and opioid use disorder found that physical therapy and chiropractic care were underutilized, particularly among minority groups. The findings underscore the importance of addressing inequities in pain management to improve health outcomes.
Chronic pain patients who take opioids need access to gold-standard multi-modal pain care, including physical therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and integrative medicine techniques. The experts recommend restructuring insurance models, enhancing provider education, and addressing racial inequities in care.
Researchers from Shinshu University have developed a novel neuromodulation approach that incorporates gait-combined closed-loop transcranial electrical stimulation, demonstrating significant gait improvements in patients with Parkinson's disease. The treatment showed encouraging results after just ten repetitions, improving speed, gait...
A study found that US adults with radicular low back pain receiving chiropractic spinal manipulation for low back pain had significantly lower odds of being prescribed gabapentin. The odds ratio was 0.53, indicating a meaningful reduction in gabapentin use among patients who received chiropractic care.
A team of Lithuanian researchers has created an AI-based system to facilitate the rehabilitation process for stroke patients. The system, which uses wearable equipment and electromyography (EMG) technology, enables patients to track their progress and receive feedback on their exercises.
The American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology recommend a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle to prevent worsening health in people with chronic coronary disease. Clinicians should coordinate care between cardiovascular and primary care professionals, emphasizing team-based approach and social determinants of health.
A study by Weill Cornell Medicine found that state laws allowing medical cannabis use did not reduce prescriptions for opioids or other therapies for chronic non-cancer pain. The results challenge previous studies suggesting a link between medical cannabis laws and reduced opioid prescribing.
A new study from Aarhus University reveals that female athletes who consume too little energy through their diet in comparison to their training volume experience negatively impacted muscles' ability to respond to training. The study shows that insufficient energy intake can lead to changes in the hormonal system, including a decrease ...
A soft robotics glove with integrated sensors and AI can aid patients in relearning daily tasks after neurotrauma, including playing music. The glove provides hand guidance, amplifying dexterity and motor skills.
Scientists have invented a smart textile that can sense and measure body movements using nanomagnets. The device is self-powered, stretchy, durable, waterproof, and can be made with a sewing machine for under $3. It converts muscle activities into quantifiable electrical signals sent wirelessly to phone apps.
Researchers at the University of Malaga develop a new therapy using manual techniques and stretching to reduce pain and improve mobility in women with axillary web syndrome after breast cancer. The therapy, consisting of 15 sessions, has shown significant results in reducing evolution time of lymphatic thrombi.
A 16-week remote exercise program improved cardiorespiratory fitness, lung function, and functional capacity in severe COVID-19 survivors. The study found significant benefits in health-related quality of life and reduced persistent symptoms.
Researchers found that cognitive behavioral therapy significantly reduced fatigue and improved concentration in patients with persistent post-COVID symptoms. After six months, the benefits persisted, indicating a safe and effective treatment option.
A new study published by Edith Cowan University found that boxing programs can improve symptoms of Parkinson's Disease, including fatigue and sleep, in early-stage patients. The program combined elements of exercise, computerized cognitive training, and socialization into a single activity.
Researcher Brian Clark presents findings on the role of the nervous system in age-related muscle weakness, exploring potential therapeutic targets such as exercise and physical therapy. His work identifies neural mechanisms linked to low nerve cell excitability, impaired signal transmission, and reduced motor network integrity.
A team of Lithuanian scientists created a VR-based rehabilitation system to help patients recover from stroke. The system uses sensors to track the patient's movements and provides real-time feedback to improve motor function, balance, and coordination.
A WVU researcher is working on a biopsychosocial intervention to help people with chronic hip pain move and regain mobility. The intervention, called HIPS, combines mindfulness techniques like self-compassion and progressive relaxation with goal-setting and diaphragmatic breathing to reduce pain and increase physical activity.
Researchers discovered that mechanical loading can exacerbate inflammation in aged muscles, hindering healing. However, combining mechanotherapy with anti-inflammatory treatment significantly improves healing in aged muscles.
A new study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that exercise was well-tolerated by patients with mental or physical illness and resulted in decreased suicide attempts. The research debunks the myth that these individuals are not motivated to participate in physical exercise regimes.
A new invention by ETH Zurich researchers uses 3D printing to create customized insoles with integrated pressure sensors that can measure foot pressure during various activities. This allows for more accurate and efficient creation of custom insoles, potentially improving athletic performance and treating musculoskeletal pain.
A systematic review of 156 trials found that physical exercise improved motor symptoms and quality of life in people with Parkinson's Disease. Most types of structured exercise, including dance, water-based exercise, and endurance training, showed clinically meaningful benefits.
A new study from the University of Eastern Finland shows that equine-facilitated therapy (EFT) can improve daily functioning and reduce perceived pain among patients with chronic low back pain. Statistically significant improvements were observed in domains such as sleep, reaching, and bending forward.
A digital health platform has been shown to reduce injury incidence in youth athletics by providing valuable information on adolescent growth and training loads. The study found that clubs with access to the platform had significantly lower injury rates, with injuries occurring twice as long after the start of the season.