MedWorm: Physical Therapy

Editorial Comment

Urology — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

This manuscript introduces a new symptom index to assess men and women with genitourinary pain. There is marked similarity of symptoms in men and women with chronic pain thought to be due to either bladder or prostate pathology. Consequently, the questionnaires used to quantify the symptoms (ie, NIH-CPSI and IC-PBS) showed significant overlap. The authors used the NIH-CPSI and added 2 additional pain subscale items from the IC-PBS symptom questionnaire to format a male genitourinary pain index (M-GUPI). For females, the male-specific pain items were changed to female-specific items to generate the female genitourinary pain index (F-GUPI). These indexes perform well in quantifying symptoms in men and women with pelvic pain syndromes and, furthermore, showed good response among those patient...

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Physical rehabilitation and acupuncture as tools of multimodal pain management in working dogs

Journal of Veterinary Behavior: Clinical Applications and Research — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Human health care providers use a variety of complementary therapies in the physical rehabilitation of patients. Programs such as the Army Regional Anesthesia and Pain Management Initiative (ARAPMI) at Walter Reed Army Medical Center integrate novel physical therapy treatments, such as hippotherapy, and acupuncture as part of rehabilitative treatment plans. Multi-modal pain management is a pivotal concept in the successful treatment of both veterinary and human patients. By providing a balanced therapeutic approach, the provider may maximize clinical response while minimizing the detrimental side effects of excessive pharmacologic usage. Syndromes of acute and chronic pain, orthopedic injuries, and chronic degenerative disease affect the performance and quality of life of working dogs. Bal...

Scapular summit 2009.

Physical Therapy — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Kibler WB, Ludewig PM, McClure PW, Uhl TL, Sciascia A This was the third research meeting focused on scapular function and dysfunction, following similar meetings in 2003 and 2006. The purpose of this meeting, hosted by the Shoulder Center of Kentucky, was to continue to examine the biomechanical and clinical factors thought to be associated with the role of the scapula in shoulder function and dysfunction. Since the last Summit, much more information has been created in this area, and it was thought that enough progress had been made that an organized overview of current knowledge could provide some consensus statements to guide further research and provide assessment and treatment guidelines. A call for abstracts was extended to researchers with proven interest and published...

Letters to the Editor-in-Chief.

Physical Therapy — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Werneke MW, Gill NW, Gabel CP, Melloh M, Burkett B, Macdermid JC Letters to the Editor-in-Chief of the JOSPT as follows:"Centralization" and "Directional Preference" Are Not Synonyms and Author's ResponseFactor Analysis Findings for the NDI and Author's ResponseJ Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(11):827-831. doi:10.2519/jospt.2009.0204. PMID: 19881010 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Physical Therapy)

November 2009 abstracts.

Physical Therapy — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: A selection of important abstracts of articles published in other journals. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(11):832-841. PMID: 19881009 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Physical Therapy)

Patellar tendon rupture in a basketball player.

Physical Therapy — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Johnson SD, Kulig K The patient was a 21-year-old male who was referred to physical therapy with a 1-week history of right knee pain and stiffness following an injury of traumatic onset. While attempting to jump off of both legs to dunk a basketball during a game, the patient heard and felt a pop in his right knee that was associated with an immediate onset of pain and swelling. He was unable to bear weight following the injury and, therefore, immediately went to the emergency department, where radiographs were completed and interpreted as negative for a fracture. However, the patella for the right knee was superiorly displaced. The patient was issued crutches and referred to physical therapy. At the time of the initial physical therapy examination, the patient was still not a...

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Acute dislocation of the proximal tibiofibular joint.

Physical Therapy — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Hsieh CH, Chen JC The patient was a 19-year-old female who reported an acute onset of lateral left knee pain while participating in a 3-legged race. The patient reported to the emergency department immediately following the injury. Observation revealed prominence along the lateral aspect of the knee. The patient was unable to bear weight on her left lower extremity and her symptoms were exacerbated with extension of the knee. Although the initial radiographs of the left knee and lower leg showed no apparent fracture, a widening of the interosseous space between the tibia and the fibula and an altered position of the fibular head were noted on the anterior to posterior radiographic view. On the lateral radiographic view there was anterior displacement of the left fibula compare...

Knee extension and flexion weakness in people with knee osteoarthritis: is antagonist cocontraction a factor?

Physical Therapy — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: These results demonstrate that the reduction in isometric extension strength, measured with a 90 degrees knee flexion angle, in subjects with knee OA is not associated with increased antagonist cocontraction. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(11):807-815, Epub 15 October 2009. doi:10.2519/jospt.2009.3079. PMID: 19881006 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Physical Therapy)

The ability of 4 single-limb hopping tests to detect functional performance deficits in individuals with functional ankle instability.

Physical Therapy — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: We found that functional performance deficits were present in participants with FAI who also experienced instability during the test. This difference was identified when comparing the FAI limb to the contralateral uninjured limb as well as control participants. However, the performance deficits identified in this study were relatively small. Future research in this area is needed to further evaluate the clinical meaningfulness of these findings. Finally, we found that limb dominance did not affect performance. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(11):799-806, Epub 15 October 2009. doi:10.2519/jospt.2009.3042. PMID: 19881005 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Physical Therapy)

Mechanosensitivity of the lower extremity nervous system during straight-leg raise neurodynamic testing in healthy individuals.

Physical Therapy — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: These findings support the hypothesis that addition of ankle dorsiflexion during straight-leg raise testing induces earlier distal muscle activation and reduces hip flexion motion. The straight-leg test, performed to the onset of symptoms (P1) and with sensitizing maneuvers, allows for identification of meaningful differences in test outcomes and is an appropriate end point for lower extremity neurodynamic testing. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(11):780-790, Epub 15 October 2009. doi:10.2519/jospt.2009.3002. PMID: 19881004 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Physical Therapy)

Changes in Lateral Abdominal Muscle Thickness During the Abdominal Drawing-in Maneuver in Those With Lumbopelvic Pain.

Physical Therapy — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: Individuals with unilateral lumbopelvic pain demonstrated a smaller increase in thickness of the TrA muscle during the ADIM. This finding provides an element of construct validity for the use of the ADIM for assessing TrA muscle thickness in those with unilateral lumbopelvic pain. However, both groups demonstrated a symmetrical side-to-side change in TrA and IO muscle thickness despite the symptomatic group having unilateral symptoms. Further, we detected a preferential change in TrA muscle thickness during the ADIM in both groups. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(11):791-798, Epub 15 October 2009. doi:10.2519/jospt.2009.3128. PMID: 19881003 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Physical Therapy)

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Choosing Among 3 Ankle-Foot Orthoses for a Patient With Stage II Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction.

Physical Therapy — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

DISCUSSION: Based on gait analysis, the higher-cost custom articulated orthosis was chosen as optimal for the patient. This custom articulated orthosis was associated with the greatest change in flatfoot deformity, assessed using gait analysis. The patient felt it produced the greatest correction in foot deformity. Reducing flatfoot deformity while allowing ankle movement may limit progression of stage II PTTD. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapy, level 4. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(11):816-824, Epub 15 October 2009. doi:10.2519/jospt.2009.3107. PMID: 19881002 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Physical Therapy)

Intractable migraine headaches during pregnancy under chiropractic care.

Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

We present a 24-year-old gravid female with chronic migraine headaches since age 12years. Previous unsuccessful care included osteopathy, physical therapy, massage and medication. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication with codeine provided minor and temporary relief. Chiropractic care involving spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) and adjunctive therapies resulted in symptom improvement and independence from medication. This document provides supporting evidence on the safety and possible effectiveness of chiropractic care for patients with headaches during pregnancy. PMID: 19880080 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice)

On "Manual therapy, exercise, and traction for patients with cervical radiculopathy..." Young IA, et al.Phys Ther. 2009;89:632-642.

Physical Therapy — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Thorpe DL PMID: 19884641 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Physical Therapy)

We must see the possibilities.

Physical Therapy — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Ward RS PMID: 19884640 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Physical Therapy)

The best we can be is yet to come.

Physical Therapy — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Winstein CJ Dr Winstein is recognized for her outstanding achievements in research, administration, and education. She has been dedicated to finding solutions to the problems that physical therapists face in the clinic and improving the lives of patients with neurological disorders, significantly in the area of motor learning and rehabilitation of patients poststroke. Internationally recognized as a leader for her research in the area of motor learning and neuroscience, Dr Winstein has had great success in funded research in particular, which is considered unusual for the physical therapy profession. She has received 25 research awards, cumulatively totaling more than $15 million. Dr Winstein is a member of the Research and Neurology sections of the American Physical Therapy A...

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Invited commentary.

Physical Therapy — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Charles J, Wolf SL PMID: 19884638 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Physical Therapy)

Cancer prevention in physical therapist practice.

Physical Therapy — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Stout NL PMID: 19884637 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Physical Therapy)

A systems view of physical therapy care: shifting to a new paradigm for the profession.

Physical Therapy — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Kigin C PMID: 19884636 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Physical Therapy)

A responsibility to put "health policy in perspective".

Physical Therapy — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Craik RL PMID: 19884635 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Physical Therapy)

[The effects of two different continuous passive motion protocols on knee range of motion after total knee arthroplasty: a prospective analysis]

Acta Orthopaedica et Traumatologica Turcica — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: Even though CPM protocols applied following TKA may shorten the length of hospital stay, CPM applications do not offer additional short- and long-term benefits over standard physical therapy with respect to knee flexion and clinical and functional results. PMID: 19881322 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Acta Orthopaedica et Traumatologica Turcica)

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Scapular Summit 2009

The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 05:00:00 +0100

William B Kibler, Paula M. Ludewig, Philip W. McClure, Timothy L. Uhl, Aaron SciasciaThis was the third research meeting focused on scapular function and dysfunction, following similar meetings in 2003 and 2006. The purpose of this meeting, hosted by the Shoulder Center of Kentucky, was to continue to examine the biomechanical and clinical factors thought to be associated with the role of the scapula in shoulder function and dysfunction. Since the last Summit, much more information has been created in this area, and it was thought that enough progress had been made that an organized overview of current knowledge could provide some consensus statements to guide further research and provide assessment and treatment guidelines. A call for abstracts was extended to researchers with proven inte...

Letters to the Editor-in-Chief

The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Mark W. Werneke, Norman W. Gill, Charles Philip Gabel, Markus Melloh, Brendan Burkett, Joy C. MacDermidLetters to the Editor-in-Chief of the JOSPT as follows:"Centralization" and "Directional Preference" Are Not Synonyms and Author's ResponseFactor Analysis Findings for the NDI and Author's ResponseJ Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(11):827-831. doi:10.2519/jospt.2009.0204 (Source: The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy)

November 2009 Abstracts

The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 05:00:00 +0100

A selection of important abstracts of articles published in other journals. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(11):832-841. (Source: The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy)

Patellar Tendon Rupture in a Basketball Player

The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Sean D. Johnson, Kornelia KuligThe patient was a 21-year-old male who was referred to physical therapy with a 1-week history of right knee pain and stiffness following an injury of traumatic onset. While attempting to jump off of both legs to dunk a basketball during a game, the patient heard and felt a pop in his right knee that was associated with an immediate onset of pain and swelling. He was unable to bear weight following the injury and, therefore, immediately went to the emergency department, where radiographs were completed and interpreted as negative for a fracture. However, the patella for the right knee was superiorly displaced. The patient was issued crutches and referred to physical therapy. At the time of the initial physical therapy examination, the patient was still not abl...

Acute Dislocation of the Proximal Tibiofibular Joint

The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Chih-Hsin Hsieh, Jian-Chih ChenThe patient was a 19-year-old female who reported an acute onset of lateral left knee pain while participating in a 3-legged race. The patient reported to the emergency department immediately following the injury. Observation revealed prominence along the lateral aspect of the knee. The patient was unable to bear weight on her left lower extremity and her symptoms were exacerbated with extension of the knee. Although the initial radiographs of the left knee and lower leg showed no apparent fracture, a widening of the interosseous space between the tibia and the fibula and an altered position of the fibular head were noted on the anterior to posterior radiographic view. On the lateral radiographic view there was anterior displacement of the left fibula compare...

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The efficacy of physical therapy and physical therapy plus calcitonin in the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis.

Yonsei Medical Journal — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: In 45 patients with lumbar spinal stenosis who received 8 weeks of treatment, concomitant use of calcitonin with physical therapy and exercise did not have any benefical effect on the patient's pain, functional status, lumbar mobility and walking distance. PMID: 19881973 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Yonsei Medical Journal)

Compromised bone strength index in the hemiparetic distal tibia epiphysis among chronic stroke patients: the association with cardiovascular function, muscle atrophy, mobility, and spasticity

Osteoporosis International — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 18:15:13 +0100

Conclusions Cardiovascular function, muscle atrophy, mobility, and spasticity are independently associated with BSI of the distal tibia epiphysis among chronic stroke patients. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticleDOI 10.1007/s00198-009-1038-3Authors M. Y. C. Pang, Hong Kong Polytechnic University Department of Rehabilitation Sciences Hung Hom Hong Kong ChinaM. C. Ashe, University of British Columbia Department of Physical Therapy Vancouver BC CanadaJ. J. Eng, University of British Columbia Department of Physical Therapy Vancouver BC Canada Journal Osteoporosis InternationalOnline ISSN 1433-2965Print ISSN 0937-941X (Source: Osteoporosis International)

Facial Headache Frustration?

Dr. Weil Q&A — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 16:09:31 +0100

I've suffered with a facial headache for two years. Migraine medications don't help, physical therapy hasn't helped, decongestants don't help, and extra sleep doesn't help. My doctor doesn't know what to try next. I'm 34, female and in otherwise in good health. Do you have any recommendations? (Source: Dr. Weil Q&A)

International Summit Reaches Agreement: Patient-Self Referral To Physical Therapy Improves Public Health

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100

This past week in Washington, DC, physical therapists from around the world heard that direct access and patient self-referral to a physical therapist is proven to be safe, and results in improved health outcomes, more timely care, higher patient satisfaction, and lower costs, says the American Physi (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

UK-based physical therapists' attitudes and beliefs regarding exercise and knee osteoarthritis: Findings from a mixed-methods study

Arthritis Care and Research — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Within the UK, differences exist between physical therapists' use of exercise for patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) and recent exercise recommendations. This may be explained by their underlying attitudes and beliefs. We aimed to describe UK physical therapists' attitudes and beliefs regarding exercise and knee OA, and understand and explain them.A survey was mailed to 2,000 UK-based chartered physical therapists that included 23 attitude statements derived from recently published recommendations. Semistructured telephone interviews were conducted with a purposeful sample of questionnaire respondents (n = 24), and were recorded and analyzed thematically.The questionnaire response rate was 58% (n = 1,152); 538 respondents reported treating a patient with knee OA in the last 6 months. T...

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Orthopedic Surgeons and Physical Therapists Differ in Assessment of Need for Physical Therapy After Traumatic Lower-Extremity Injury.

Physical Therapy — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS:/b> The results revealed variability in assessments of the need for physical therapy at the provider and trauma center levels. Differences in provider assessments highlight the need for communication and further investigation into the outcomes and timing of physical therapy for the treatment of traumatic lower-extremity injuries. PMID: 19875460 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Physical Therapy)

Development of a framework for reporting health service models for managing rheumatoid arthritis

Clinical Rheumatology — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 20:28:49 +0100

Abstract The purpose of this study was to develop a framework for reporting health service models for managing rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We conducted a search of the health sciences literature for primary studies that described interventions which aimed to improve the implementation of health services in adults with RA. Thereafter, a nominal group consensus process was used to synthesize the evidence for the development of the reporting framework. Of the 2,033 citations screened, 68 primary studies were included which described 93 health service models for RA. The origin and meaning of the labels given to these health service delivery models varied widely and, in general, the reporting of their components lacked detail or was absent. The six dimensions underlying the fram...

Evaluating rehabilitation outcomes from the client's perspective by identifying the gap between current and preferred movement ability.

Disability and Rehabilitation — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions. Assessing gaps between client-perceived current and preferred movement ability following intervention may help in the evaluation of rehabilitation outcomes from the client's perspective. PMID: 19852715 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Disability and Rehabilitation)

Quality of life: An important outcome measure in a trial of very early mobilisation after stroke.

Disability and Rehabilitation — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions. VEM may help improve long-term quality of life after stroke, particularly in relation to functional independence, but this requires further examination. PMID: 19852710 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Disability and Rehabilitation)

Should We Maintain an Open Mind about Homeopathy?

The American Journal of Medicine — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 13:21:20 +0100

Once upon a time, doctors had little patience with the claims made for alternative medicines. In recent years the climate has changed dramatically. It is now politically correct to have an open mind about such matters; “the patient knows best” and “it worked for me” seem to be the new mantras. Although this may be a reasonable approach to some of the more plausible aspects of alternative medicine, such as herbal medicine or physical therapies that require manipulation, we believe it cannot apply across the board. Some of these alternatives are based on obsolete or metaphysical concepts of human biology and physiology that have to be described as absurd with proponents who will not subject their interventions to scientific scrutiny or if they do, and are found wanting, suggest that ...

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The treatment of patients with mycotoxin-induced disease

Toxicology and Industrial Health current issue — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 11:12:00 +0100

Twenty-eight incapacitated individuals (average 43 years old, 7 males, 21 females, range 12-70) exposed to molds and mycotoxins were studied and treated with a protocol of cleaning up or changing their environment to be mold free. Injections of the optimum dose of antigens were given as part of the treatment protocol as was oral and intravenous (i.v.) antioxidants; heat depuration (sauna); physical therapy with massage and exercise under environmentally controlled conditions; oxygen therapy at 4-8 L/min for 2 hours with a special wood-grade cellophane reservoir and a glass oxygen container. Many patients were sensitive to plastics; therefore, exposures to these were kept to a minimum. Autogenous lymphocytic factor was given as an immune modulator. Of 28 patients, 27 did well and returned t...

Medicare Physicians Fairness Act Of 2009

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 09:00:00 +0100

Statement by APTA President R. Scott Ward, PT, PhD The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) is disappointed by the Senate's actions yesterday to block S. 1776, the Medicare Physicians Fairness Act of 2009, legislation that would have protected the ability of physical therapists to serve the rehabilitation needs of seniors and people with disabilities. S. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Postural orientation in subjects with anterior cruciate ligament injury: development and first evaluation of a new observational test battery

Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 06:08:59 +0100

Abstract Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is associated with mechanical instability and defective neuromuscular function, and can lead to further injury, increased joint loading and osteoarthritis. Patients with ACL injury demonstrate altered postural orientation, manifested as observable “substitution patterns” (SPs) but no one has applied a clinically useful method to systematically study postural orientation in these patients. Here, we investigated the presence of such patterns in 24 adults with ACL injury and in 49 controls, in parallel with the development and a first evaluation of a new test battery, test for SPs. The rationale behind the test for SPs was to characterize postural orientation as the ability to maintain appropriate relationships between body...

Tailored Therapy for Neurological Injuries

Medical Headlines From Ivanhoe.com — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Many physical therapy programs for neurological injury aid in the restoration of one particular function at a time. (Source: Medical Headlines From Ivanhoe.com)

Restoring More Functions After Neurological Injury With The Help Of Tailored Physical Therapy

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 13:00:00 +0100

New research suggests a tailored approach to physical therapy after a neurological injury such as a stroke, traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury could help restore a wider variety of functions. Clinical physical therapy is a widely used treatment approach to help restore the motor function of patients following neurological injuries. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Tailoring Physical Therapy Can Restore More Functions After Neurological Injury

ScienceDaily Headlines — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 09:00:00 +0100

There Is Inadequate Evidence to Determine the Effectiveness of Nonpharmacological and Nonsurgical Interventions for Hand Osteoarthritis: An Overview of High-Quality Systematic Reviews.

Physical Therapy — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS:/b> There currently is insufficient high-quality evidence regarding nonpharmacological and nonsurgical interventions for hand osteoarthritis. Considering the limited research evidence and the prevalence and impact of the disease, there is an urgent need for more trials of nonpharmacological and nonsurgical interventions for hand osteoarthritis. PMID: 19850713 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Physical Therapy)

New Models for Primary Care Are Needed for Osteoarthritis.

Physical Therapy — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

This article reflects on aspects of the occurrence, natural history, prognosis, and management of common joint problems in primary care. Although the biomedical model has contributed to major advances, a model that embraces chronic pain management and its psychological and social components is needed. In particular, primary care is the ideal arena to achieve high-impact secondary prevention of pain and disability in people with osteoarthritis. Physical therapists are in a crucial position in primary care to provide support for self-management of this condition, especially for interventions related to exercise and behavioral change. PMID: 19850712 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Physical Therapy)

International Summit Aims To Advance Physical Therapist Practice

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 20:00:00 +0100

A groundbreaking international collaboration among the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), the Canadian Physiotherapy Association (CPA), and the World Confederation for Physical Therapy (WCPT) will bring together thought leaders in physical therapy and policymakers October 22-24, in Washin (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Mannose binding lectin levels are not related to radiographic damage in ankylosing spondylitis

Rheumatology International — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 19:35:12 +0100

Abstract In the current study we aimed to investigate the effect of MBL deficiency in radiographic damage of the spine in a large group of AS patients. One hundred and ninety-one AS patients and 85 healthy controls were studied. Disease activity, radiological scores, and demographic features were recorded. MBL levels were measured with standard ELISA kits. Results showed that median MBL levels in AS and healthy controls were 2,530 (range 0–5,861) ng/ml and 3,415 (0–7,950) ng/ml, respectively (p = 0.1). MBL deficiency (<500 ng/ml) was comparable in both groups (%21.5 in AS, % 17.6; p = 0.5). Disease activity, clinical picture, and therapies were not associated with MBL levels. Both BASRI and mSASSS scores were found similar in AS patients with ...

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Physical Therapists Walk To Raise Funds For Free Mammograms For Alexandria Women

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 19:00:00 +0100

The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) will participate in the city of Alexandria's 16th Annual Walk to Fight Breast Cancer, October 24, 2009, at the AMC Hoffman Theatres on Swamp Fox Road beginning at 8 am. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Physical Therapists Offer Falls Prevention Assessment At AARP Expo

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 17:00:00 +0100

Physical therapists from Nevada will be offering free balance tests and speaking with attendees on various health-related issues at the AARP "VEGAS@50+" Expo at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, Oct. 22-24, 2009. The physical therapists will offer these services at the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) booth, #833. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Tailoring physical therapy can restore more functions after neurological injury

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 04:00:00 +0100

(Georgetown University Medical Center) New research suggests a tailored approach to physical therapy after a neurological injury such as a stroke, traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury could help restore a wider variety of functions. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

What Is Dystonia?

About.com Bipolar Disorder — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Dystonia is a rare neurological movement disorder characterized by involuntary muscle contractions, which force certain parts of the body into abnormal, sometimes painful, movements or postures. It can be inherited due to genetic abnormalities as seen in multiple sclerosis. It can also be caused by brain injuries, toxins and some medications. Antipsychotic medication, often prescribed in the treatment of bipolar disorder, is one class of drugs that can cause dystonia, which is one of several extrapyramidal side effects. Generally it is the first generation antipsychotics also known as typical antipyschotics that can cause these side effects. There is no cure for dystonia. However, there are a few options for treating the symptoms of the disorder. One of the most common treatments is Boto...

More research needed on blast induced traumatic brain injury and vestibular pathology

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 04:00:00 +0100

(American Physical Therapy Association) Physical therapists are calling for definitive vestibular screenings and assessment measures for US military service members with blast-induced traumatic brain injuries. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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NHC Announces Physical Therapy Geriatric Residency Program

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

National HealthCare Corporation (NYSE Amex: NHC)(NYSE Amex: NHC.PR.A), one of the nation's leading operators of long-term health care and assisted living facilities, announced today that the NHC Geriatric Clinical Residency Program (GCRP) for Physical Therapists has successfully received accreditation through the American Physical Therapy Association. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Paramedical treatment in primary dystonia: A systematic review

Movement Disorders — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Dystonia is a disabling movement disorder with a significant impact on quality of life. The current therapeutic armamentarium includes various drugs, botulinum toxin injections, and occasionally (neuro)surgery. In addition, many patients are referred for paramedical (including allied health care) interventions. An enormous variation in the paramedical treatment is provided, largely because evidence-based, accepted treatment regimes are not available. We have conducted a systematic review of studies that explored the effect of various paramedical interventions in primary dystonia. Only studies that have used clinical outcome measures were included. There were no class A1 or A2 studies and therefore, level 1 or 2 practice recommendations for a specific intervention could not be deducted. Man...

Statistical Approach for Brain Cancer Classification Using a Region Growing Threshold

Journal of Medical Systems — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 18:13:29 +0100

Abstract In brain cancer, a biopsy as an invasive procedure is needed in order to differentiate between malignant and benign brain tumor. However, in some cases, it is difficult or harmful to perform such a procedure, to the brain. The aim of this study is to investigate a new method in maximizing the probability of brain cancer type detection without actual biopsy procedure. The proposed method combines both image and statistical analysis for tumor type detection. It employed image filtration and segmentation of the target region of interest with MRI to assure an accurate statistical interpretation of the results. Statistical analysis was based on utilizing the mean, range, box plot, and testing of hypothesis techniques to reach acceptable and accurate results in differen...

Knee Extension and Flexion Weakness in People With Knee Osteoarthritis: Is Antagonist Cocontraction a Factor?

The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: These results demonstrate that the reduction in isometric extension strength, measured with a 90° knee flexion angle, in subjects with knee OA is not associated with increased antagonist cocontraction. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(11):807-815, Epub 15 October 2009. doi:10.2519/jospt.2009.3079 KEY WORDS: burst superimposition, OA, quadriceps strength, voluntary muscle activation (Source: The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy)

The Ability of 4 Single-Limb Hopping Tests to Detect Functional Performance Deficits in Individuals With Functional Ankle Instability

The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: We found that functional performance deficits were present in participants with FAI who also experienced instability during the test. This difference was identified when comparing the FAI limb to the contralateral uninjured limb as well as control participants. However, the performance deficits identified in this study were relatively small. Future research in this area is needed to further evaluate the clinical meaningfulness of these findings. Finally, we found that limb dominance did not affect performance. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(11):799-806, Epub 15 October 2009. doi:10.2519/jospt.2009.3042 KEY WORDS: 6-meter crossover hop, agility, figure-of-8 hop, side hop, square hop (Source: The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy)

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Mechanosensitivity of the Lower Extremity Nervous System During Straight-Leg Raise Neurodynamic Testing in Healthy Individuals

The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: These findings support the hypothesis that addition of ankle dorsiflexion during straight-leg raise testing induces earlier distal muscle activation and reduces hip flexion motion. The straight-leg test, performed to the onset of symptoms (P1) and with sensitizing maneuvers, allows for identification of meaningful differences in test outcomes and is an appropriate end point for lower extremity neurodynamic testing. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(11):780-790, Epub 15 October 2009. doi:10.2519/jospt.2009.3002 KEY WORDS: neural provocation test, neural tension, sciatic nerve, sensitizing maneuvers (Source: The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy)

Changes in Lateral Abdominal Muscle Thickness During the Abdominal Drawing-in Maneuver in Those With Lumbopelvic Pain

The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: Individuals with unilateral lumbopelvic pain demonstrated a smaller increase in thickness of the TrA muscle during the ADIM. This finding provides an element of construct validity for the use of the ADIM for assessing TrA muscle thickness in those with unilateral lumbopelvic pain. However, both groups demonstrated a symmetrical side-to-side change in TrA and IO muscle thickness despite the symptomatic group having unilateral symptoms. Further, we detected a preferential change in TrA muscle thickness during the ADIM in both groups. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(11):791-798, Epub 15 October 2009. doi:10.2519/jospt.2009.3128 KEY WORDS: internal oblique, lumbar stabilization exercise, sacroiliac dysfunction, transversus abdominis, ultrasound imaging (Source: The Journal of Or...

Choosing Among 3 Ankle-Foot Orthoses for a Patient With Stage II Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction

The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 05:00:00 +0100

DISCUSSION: Based on gait analysis, the higher-cost custom articulated orthosis was chosen as optimal for the patient. This custom articulated orthosis was associated with the greatest change in flatfoot deformity, assessed using gait analysis. The patient felt it produced the greatest correction in foot deformity. Reducing flatfoot deformity while allowing ankle movement may limit progression of stage II PTTD. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapy, level 4. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(11):816-824, Epub 15 October 2009. doi:10.2519/jospt.2009.3107 KEY WORDS: biomechanics, PTTD, tendinopathy (Source: The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy)

Physical therapists play integral role in prevention, risk reduction, and treatment of lymphedema

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 04:00:00 +0100

(American Physical Therapy Association) As breast cancer awareness month is observed during October, the American Physical Therapy Association is hoping to shine a spotlight on lymphedema, a chronic, debilitating and often irreversible side effect of cancer treatment. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Gait Variability Detects Women in Early Postmenopause With Low Bone Mineral Density.

Physical Therapy — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS:/b> Women in early postmenopause and with low BMD exhibited increased gait variability in step time and stance time but did not exhibit differences in balance, strength, or gait speed. Gait variability may be more sensitive for detecting differences in women in early postmenopause and with or without low BMD than more typical measures of physical performance. PMID: 19833786 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Physical Therapy)

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Physical Therapists Play Integral Role In Prevention, Risk Reduction, And Treatment Of Painful And Often Irreversible Side Effect Of Cancer Treatment

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 21:00:00 +0100

As breast cancer awareness month is observed during October, the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) is hoping to shine a spotlight on lymphedema, a chronic, debilitating and often irreversible side effect of cancer treatment. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

More Research Needed On Blast Induced Traumatic Brain Injury And Vestibular Pathology In US Military Service Members

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 20:00:00 +0100

Physical therapists are calling for definitive vestibular screenings and assessment measures for US military service members with blast-induced traumatic brain injuries (BITBI). (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Switching of actin isoforms in skeletal muscle differentiation using mouse ES cells

Histochemistry and Cell Biology — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 17:00:03 +0100

Abstract Among six actin isoforms, α-skeletal and α-cardiac actins have similar amino acid components and are highly conserved. Although skeletal muscles essentially express α-skeletal actins in the adult tissue, α-cardiac isoform actin is prominent in the embryonic muscle tissue. Switching of actin isoforms from α-cardiac to α-skeletal actin occurs during skeletal muscle differentiation. The cardiac type α-actin is expressed in the regeneration and patho-physiological states of the skeletal muscles as well. In the present study, we demonstrate the morphological switching of α-type actin isoforms from α-cardiac to α-skeletal actin in vitro using mouse ES cells for the first time. Immunofluorescent double staining with two specific antibodies revealed that α-card...

Static progressive stretch improves range of motion in arthrofibrosis following total knee arthroplasty

Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 05:58:49 +0100

This study evaluated a static progressive stretching device as a treatment method for patients who had refractory knee stiffness after total knee arthroplasty. Twenty-five patients who had knee stiffness and no improvement with conventional physical therapy modalities were treated with the device. After a median of 7 weeks (range, 3–16 weeks), the median increase in range of motion was 25° (range, 8–82°). The median gain in knee active flexion was 19° (range, 5–80°). Ninety-two percent of patients were satisfied with the results. The authors believe static progressive stretching devices may be an effective method for increasing the ranges of motion and satisfaction levels of patients who develop arthrofibrosis after total knee arthroplasty. Content Type Journal...

Validation of the Japanese Osteoporosis Quality of Life Questionnaire

Journal of Bone and Mineral Metabolism — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 20:32:36 +0100

Abstract The Japanese Society for Bone and Mineral Research developed the Japanese Osteoporosis Quality of Life Questionnaire (JOQOL) to evaluate the disease-specific Health-Related QOL, which is specific for osteoporosis of Japanese patients. JOQOL was revised in 2000; it consisted of 38 items with the scale graded from 0 to 4 and a total full score of 152. To elucidate the reliability and validity of the revised JOQOL, we enrolled 193 postmenopausal women as subjects and diagnosed them as having osteoporosis or osteopenia. The mean age of the subjects was 68.2 ± 8 years; 58 subjects (30.1%) had at least one vertebral fracture. Among them, 83 patients were retested for reliability. The mean lapse from the time of test to that of retest was 23.7(±9.5) days....

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Preoperative MRI findings and functional outcome after selective dorsal rhizotomy in children with bilateral spasticity

Child's Nervous System — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 08:16:16 +0100

Conclusion We conclude that with respect to gross motor skills, the improvements after SDR are good in patients with no MRI abnormalities. In the patients with hydrocephalus, the improvements after SDR were insignificant. In patients with PVL, the improvements were intermediate and did not correlate with the degree of PVL. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s00381-009-0999-zAuthors Sebastian Grunt, VU University Medical Center Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Amsterdam The NetherlandsJules G. Becher, VU University Medical Center Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Amsterdam The NetherlandsPetra van Schie, VU University Medical Center Department of Physical Therapy Amsterdam The NetherlandsWillem J. R. van Ouwerkerk, VU University Med...

Anti-inflammatory management for tendon injuries - friends or foes?

BioMed Central — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Acute and chronic tendon injuries are very common among athletes and in sedentary population. Most physicians prescribe anti-inflammatory managements to relieve the worst symptoms of swelling and pain, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids and physical therapies. However, experimental research shows that pro-inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins may play important regulatory roles in tendon healing. Noticeably nearly all cases of chronic tendon injuries we treat as specialists have received non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs by their physician, suggesting that there might be a potential interaction in some of these cases turning a mild inflammatory tendon injury into chronic tendinopathy in predisposed individuals. We are aware of the fact that non-ste...

Exercise testing of pre-school children using the Bruce treadmill protocol: new reference values

European Journal of Applied Physiology — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 07:12:19 +0100

Abstract The Bruce treadmill protocol is an often-used exercise test for children and adults. Few and mainly old normative data are available for young children. In this cross-sectional observational study we determined new reference values for the original Bruce protocol in children aged 4 and 5 years. Furthermore, we compared the original protocol with the so-called ‘half Bruce’ protocol. In the Netherlands this half-Bruce protocol is often used for young children because of the rather large increments in workload in the original protocol. Seventy-eight healthy Dutch children participated. The maximal endurance time was the criterion of exercise capacity. The new reference values for the original Bruce protocol are presented as reference centiles. The mean (SD...

National Hemophilia Foundation Nursing Excellence Fellowships

ScanGrants feed — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

The objectives of the fellowship are to improve the delivery of care and expand the knowledge of nursing science surrounding bleeding disorders.FundingEach year one new research fellowship of up to $13,500 will be awarded.DeadlinesA letter of intent should be submitted to NHF. This should be a brief letter identifying the applying researcher and organization and the intended area of research.Multidisciplinary applications are welcomed. If a multidisciplinary project is sought, you are encouraged to indicate in the letter of intent and in the application how the project would proceed if only one Fellowship is awarded.InquiriesFor inquiries regarding applications, policy and procedures and programmatic information, contact:Morgan Johnson, CAE, Manager of Healthcare Provider ProgramsNational ...

Depression and anxiety are not related to nummular headache

The Journal of Headache and Pain — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 07:28:07 +0100

Abstract Nummular headache (NH) is a clinical picture characterized by head pain that is exclusively felt in a round, elliptical, or oval area of the head. Although there is evidence supporting an organic origin for NH, some authors question this origin, hypothesizing a potential role for psychological factors. Our aims were to investigate the differences in anxiety and depression between NH patients and healthy controls, and to analyse if these conditions were related to pain parameters in NH patients. The Beck depression inventory (BDI-II) and the trait anxiety scale from state-trait anxiety inventory (STAI) were administered to 26 patients with NH and 34 comparable matched controls. No significant interactions between group (NH patients, controls) in either depression (...

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Comparison of the effects that two different respiratory physical therapy techniques have on cardiorespiratory parameters in infants with acute viral bronchiolitis

Jornal Brasileiro de Pneumologia — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 10:33:41 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: In terms of overall improvement of cardiorespiratory parameters, neither the EFIT nor vibration/PD provided any benefit to infants with BVA. However, over time, respiratory physical therapy seems to contribute to decreasing the RR in these patients. (Source: Jornal Brasileiro de Pneumologia)

Improving The Lives Of Torture Victims From Around The World

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 08:00:00 +0100

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) has announced its selection of Dr. Uwe Jacobs, clinical and executive director of Survivors International, San Francisco, to receive a Community Health Leaders Award. He is one of 10 extraordinary Americans to receive the RWJF honor for 2009 at a ceremony at the Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Foundation for Physical Therapy New Investigator Fellowship Training Initiative - Health Services Research

ScanGrants feed — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Application Deadline: Noon ET, January 26, 2010 The NIFTI-HSR is intended to develop the fellow's research skills needed to conduct high quality, independent research to advance his or her capacity to examine optimal health services delivery outcomes in physical therapy, including cost analysis of various rehabilitation interventions. The focus of the training will be on examining issues related to health care delivery, health services management, assessment of healthcare needs, evaluation of health markets and services, health economics, and the impact of health policies.The applicant may develop an application in collaboration with any well-established health services research institution of his or her choice. The ideal program will offer each fellow: * Intensive instruction in advance...

Foundation for Physical Therapy Promotion of Doctoral Studies I & II Scholarships

ScanGrants feed — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Foundation for Physical Therapy Promotion of Doctoral Studies I & II Scholarships Application Deadline: Noon ET, January 26, 2010Promotion of Doctoral Studies (PODS) I & II Scholarships, part of the Foundation's Doctoral Opportunities for Clinicians and Scholars (DOCS) Program, are to fund doctoral students, who having completed one full year of coursework, wish to continue their studies or have entered the dissertation phase of their doctoral program.Two scholarship categories within the PODS program have been established for the two distinct phases of education and training:PODS I - Up to $7,500 per year in support of the coursework phase of post-professional doctoral studies prior to candidacy (as defined by the applicant's institution). Application deadline: Mid-January each ye...

Physical Therapy Students From Across The Nation Gather To Move Profession And Careers Forward

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 02:00:00 +0100

Physical therapy students from across the nation will learn the latest in physical therapist research and treatment techniques during the American Physical Therapy Association's (APTA's) 17th Annual National Student Conclave (NSC) at the Hyatt Regency Miami in Miami, FL, October 30 - November 1, 2009. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Ethnic background and differences in health care use: a national cross-sectional study of native Dutch and immigrant elderly in the Netherlands

BioMed Central — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: For all health services, health disparities among all four major immigrant groups in the Netherlands translate into utilisation disparities, aggravated by lack of language competence. The resulting pattern of systematic lower health services utilisation of elderly immigrants is a challenge for health care providers and policy makers. (Source: BioMed Central)

Infants Born Preterm Exhibit Different Patterns of Center-of-Pressure Movement Than Infants Born at Full Term.

Physical Therapy — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS:/b> Infants born at full term exhibited COP displacements in the caudal-cephalic direction that were smaller in amplitude, but may be considered more complex or less predictable, than those of infants born preterm. One explanation is that infants born preterm exhibited more stereotypic patterns of movement, resulting in large, but repetitive, COP excursions. A combination of linear and nonlinear measures may provide insight into the control of posture of young infants. PMID: 19815647 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Physical Therapy)

Social and Community Participation of Children and Youth With Cerebral Palsy Is Associated With Age and Gross Motor Function Classification.

Physical Therapy — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS:/b> The ability to walk without restrictions is desirable for social and community participation. For children and youth with CP who have limitations in mobility, physical therapists have roles as consultants for accessibility, activity accommodations, and assistive technology and as advocates for inclusive environments. PMID: 19815646 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Physical Therapy)

Physical Therapy Month - October 2009

About.com Health Careers — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

October is physical therapy month, a great time to explore careers in this field. Physical therapists are in high demand, and in addition, physical therapists often express the highest... (Source: About.com Health Careers)

Adjusting Rehabilitation Costs and Benefits for Health Capital: The Case of Low Back Occupational Injuries

Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 12:42:57 +0100

Conclusions Once adjustments are made for initial health capital immediately after injury, the net benefits of treating occupational low back pain are virtually identical for physician only care, physician plus physical therapy care, and chiropractic care. Net benefits of care are lower for combined physician/chiropractic care, and lowest for all other forms of care (principally, treatment by orthopedic surgeons). Our method is readily adapted for comparisons among individual health care/occupational rehabilitation professionals or among group practices and other health care organizations. Content Type Journal ArticleDOI 10.1007/s10926-009-9206-zAuthors Richard J. Butler, Brigham Young University Department of Economics 183 FOB BYU Provo UT 84602 USAWilliam G. Johnson, Arizona Sta...

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4. Cervical Radicular Pain

Pain Practice — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Cervical radicular pain is defined as pain perceived as arising in the arm caused by irritation of a cervical spinal nerve or its roots. Approximately 1 person in 1,000 suffers from cervical radicular pain. In the absence of a gold standard, the diagnosis is based on a combination of history, clinical examination, and (potentially) complementary examination. Medical imaging may show abnormalities, but those findings may not correlate with the patient's pain. Electrophysiologic testing may be requested when nerve damage is suspected but will not provide quantitative/qualitative information about the pain. The presumed causative level may be confirmed by means of selective diagnostic blocks. Conservative treatment typically consists of medication and physical therapy. There are no studies as...

Restorative Physical and Occupational Therapy: A Critical Need for Patients With Chronic Kidney and End-Stage Renal Disease

Advances in Chronic Kidney Disease — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 18:03:26 +0100

Patients with CKD and ESRD present with many health problems, which may lead to increased mortality and dysfunction. Numerous comorbidities may contribute toward physical, emotional, and social problems and a decreased quality of life. Difficulty ambulating, balance deficits, joint pain and stiffness, muscle spasm and weakness, fatigue, neuropathy, and difficulty with activities of daily living (ADLs) may contribute to a decrease in functional independence. Physical therapy (PT) and occupational therapy (OT) aim to restore physical functioning, facilitate independence in ADLs, and promote functional independence by using various therapeutic procedures. PT and OT are the usual services of choice to address impaired function associated with acute and chronic pathology. The purpose of this ar...

Validation of a Modified National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index to Assess Genitourinary Pain in Both Men and Women

Urology — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Objectives: To date, separate condition-specific instruments have been used to assess severity of symptoms, in men and women with urological pain conditions. We developed a single instrument that can be used to assess treatment response in clinical trials and cohort studies that involve both genders.Methods: We developed the Genitourinary Pain Index (GUPI) by modifying and adding questions to the National Institutes of Health-Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index. To assess discriminant validity, concurrent validity, and reliability, we administered the GUPI to 1653 men and 1403 women in a large managed care population. To assess responsiveness, we administered the GUPI to 47 men and women who completed a National Institutes of Health-sponsored trial of pelvic floor physical therapy.Results: T...

Injuries, risk factors and prevention initiatives in youth sport. - Frisch A, Croisier JL, Urhausen A, Seil R, Theisen D.

SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated) — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 17:40:11 +0100

Background Sports injuries in young athletes are a public health issue which deserves special attention. Effective prevention can be achieved with training programmes originating from the field of physical therapy and medicine. Sources of data A systematic... (Source: SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated))

Effect of age and physical activity level on functional fitness in older adults

European Review of Aging and Physical Activity — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 05:45:42 +0100

This study confirms that age affects functional fitness, whereas PAL generally does not. However, being more active is advantageous for the young elderly with regard to BMI, LBS, and dynamic balance. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ResearchDOI 10.1007/s11556-009-0051-zAuthors Hulya Donat Tuna, Dokuz Eylül University Institute of Health Science 35340 Inciralti-Izmir TurkeyAyse Ozcan Edeer, Dokuz Eylül University School of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation 35340 Inciralti-Izmir TurkeyMehtap Malkoc, Dokuz Eylül University School of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation 35340 Inciralti-Izmir TurkeyGazanfer Aksakoglu, Dokuz Eylül University Department of Community Medicine 35340 Inciralti-Izmir Turkey Journal European Review of Aging and Physical ActivityOnline I...

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Population-based Canadian hip fracture rates with international comparisons

Osteoporosis International — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 06:32:50 +0100

Conclusions Overall hip fracture rates for Canadian women were found to be substantially lower than those for the USA and Germany. This study underscores the importance of assessing country-specific fracture patterns prior to adopting an existing FRAX tool. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticleDOI 10.1007/s00198-009-1080-1Authors W. D. Leslie, University of Manitoba Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medicine (C5121) 409 Tache Avenue Winnipeg Manitoba R2H 2A6 CanadaS. O’Donnell, Public Health Agency of Canada Ottawa CanadaC. Lagacé, Public Health Agency of Canada Ottawa CanadaP. Walsh, Public Health Agency of Canada Ottawa CanadaC. Bancej, Public Health Agency of Canada Ottawa CanadaS. Jean, Institut National de Santé Publique du Québec Quebec City...

Leg movement training in preterm infants demonstrates positive changes in motor skills

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 04:00:00 +0100

(American Physical Therapy Association) Preterm infants who receive leg movement training display feet-reaching behaviors similar to that of full-term infants, according to a randomized controlled trial reported in the October issue of Physical Therapy, the scientific journal of the American Physical Therapy Association. This finding supports feet-reaching play as an early intervention strategy to encourage interaction with physical objects in preterm infants who have movement problems within the first months of postnatal life. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

On "Physical therapists' attitudes, knowledge, and practice..." Sack S, et al. Phys Ther. 2009;89:804-815.

Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Brooks GS PMID: 19797308 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Physical Therapy)

On "A guide to interpretation of studies..." Hancock M, et al. Phys Ther. 2009;89:698-704.

Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Allison SC PMID: 19797307 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Physical Therapy)

Above board: clear bylaws support the research mission of the Foundation for Physical Therapy.

Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Shields RK PMID: 19797306 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Physical Therapy)

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Spinal Manipulative Therapy Has an Immediate Effect on Thermal Pain Sensitivity in People With Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS:/b> Inhibition of Adelta fiber-mediated pain perception was similar for all groups. However, inhibition of temporal summation was observed only in participants receiving SMT, suggesting a modulation of dorsal horn excitability that was observed primarily in the lumbar innervated area. PMID: 19797305 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Physical Therapy)

A Functional Threshold for Long-Term Use of Hand and Arm Function Can Be Determined: Predictions From a Computational Model and Supporting Data From the Extremity Constraint-Induced Therapy Evaluation (EXCITE) Trial.

Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION:/b> Understanding of the causal and nonlinear relationship between limb function and daily use is important for the future development of cost-effective interventions and prevention of "rehabilitation in vain." PMID: 19797304 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Physical Therapy)

Early Maximal Strength Training Is an Efficient Treatment for Patients Operated With Total Hip Arthroplasty

Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Abstract: Husby VS, Helgerud J, Bjørgen S, Husby OS, Benum P, Hoff J. Early maximal strength training is an efficient treatment for patients operated with total hip arthroplasty.Objective: To compare muscle strength, work efficiency, gait patterns, and quality of life in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) randomly assigned to either maximal strength training or a conventional rehabilitation program.Design: A randomized controlled study.Setting: Research laboratory, rehabilitation center, and physical therapy clinic.Participants: Patients (N=24) with osteoarthritis as the main reason for THA were randomly assigned to perform maximal strength training (n=12) or conventional rehabilitation (n=12).Interventions: The maximal strength training group (STG) performed maximal strengt...

Self-Management of Chronic Neck and Low Back Pain and Relevance of Information Provided During Clinical Encounters: An Observational Study

Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Information provided during clinical encounters is associated with adherence to different kinds of self-management strategies. While further study is required, it is suggested that more attention be given to clinical practice strategies for improving adherence to self-management of chronic pain. (Source: Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation)

Poster 14: Functional Improvement in Post-Acute Stroke: The Importance of Repetition and Progression

Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Objective: To assess the hypothesis that rehabilitation designed to increase practice and promote progression is superior to standard care in promoting gains in functional mobility. Design: Nonrandomized A-B design. Setting: Inpatient rehabilitation. Participants: Consecutive admissions over two, 3-month periods with first-time stroke. Intervention: Standard Physical Therapy (SPT) or Circuit Training Physical Therapy (CTPT) that emphasized repetition and progression. Content (transfers, bed mobility, sitting/standing balance, gait) and time (1.5 hrs/day) were similar for both cohorts, while mode of delivery differed. SPT was delivered according to the treatment plan developed by the therapist while CTPT consisted of four 15-minute functional task stations according to patients' severity. P...

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Poster 43: Elderly Traumatic Brain Injury Survivors Requiring Rehabilitation in Quebec: Who Are They, What Services Do They Need, Where Do They Go After Rehabilitation?

Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: TBI older rehabilitation patients show similar ISS but higher GCS scores than their younger counterparts. Nevertheless, they need a vast array of rehabilitation services which seem beneficial as a large proportion of them can return home. However, it seems that home support services could be improved. (Source: Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation)

Poster 62: Black-White Disparities in Inpatient Stroke Rehabilitation: Associations between Physical and Occupational Therapy Interventions with Outcomes

Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: After controlling for patient and treatment factors, we identified no significant association between race and discharge functional outcomes. Interventions provided within activities previously found to be associated with better outcomes, were in most cases also associated with higher discharge scores. However, we identified interventions within activities that were associated with worse outcomes even though those activities were found previously to be associated with better outcomes. (Source: Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation)

Fourth international ankle symposium - july 16-18, sydney, australia.

Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Refshauge KM, Hiller C The Fourth International Ankle Symposium (IAS4), a multidisciplinary conference focused on topics related to ankle injury, was recently held in Sydney, Australia at the University of Sydney. The conference theme was "new dimensions on old problems," with a different emphasis on each day of the symposium: new dimensions on science, new dimensions on interventions, and new dimensions in the clinic, reflecting the mix of basic science and clinical practice. This issue includes a summary statement of the conference, abstracts of the invited lectures and workshops, and the abstracts of the original research presentations, both podium and poster presentations, from IAS4.J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(10):A1-A24. PMID: 19801820 [PubMed - in process] (Sou...

Anterior cruciate ligament injury and bucket handle tear of the medial meniscus.

Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Ballas ER, Stillman CA The patient was a 27-year-old man with an acute onset of right knee pain, subsequent to a twisting injury that occurred while playing soccer earlier in the day. He was evaluated via direct-access physical therapy 5 hours after the injury. He did not report giving way and locking, but did report feeling a "pop" upon injury. Based on the patient's history and physical examination findings, the therapist was concerned about the possibility of anterior cruciate ligament disruption and medial meniscus tear. The physical therapist ordered conventional radiographs to rule out bony pathology and magnetic resonance imaging of the right knee to assess for internal derangement. The conventional radiographs of the knee were interpreted as normal, while the radiologi...

Acute bony bankart lesion and surgical fixation.

Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Rosenthal MD, Provencher MT The patient was a 25-year-old man who sustained a traumatic left anterior shoulder dislocation. After self-reducing the first time, as well as in subsequent repeated dislocations over the following 2-day period, the patient reported his injury to the medical staff, who sent him to the physical therapist for evaluation. Anterior-posterior, scapular outlet, and axillary radiographic views demonstrated a bony glenoid lesion consistent with a bony Bankart lesion, which was best seen on the scapular outlet view. A 3-dimensional computed tomography scan was performed to assess the size and displacement of the bony Bankart lesion. Six days following injury, the patient underwent operative fixation of the bony Bankart lesion. Following surgery, the patient ...

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Structural factors associated with hallux limitus/rigidus: a systematic review of case control studies.

Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: This review of case control studies indicates that several variables pertaining to the structure of the first metatarsophalangeal joint may be associated with hallux limitus/rigidus. These findings have implications for the conservative and surgical treatment of the condition. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognosis, level 2a-. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(10):733-742. doi:10.2519/jospt.2009.3003. PMID: 19801816 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Physical Therapy)

Clinical interpretation of computerized adaptive test outcome measures in patients with foot/ankle impairments.

Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Changes in abdominal muscle thickness measured by ultrasound are not associated with recovery in athletes with longstanding groin pain associated with resisted hip adduction.

Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: There was no association between changes in abdominal muscle resting thickness and relative thickness during lower extremity tasks, and change in self-reported sports restriction after a period of physical therapy in athletes with longstanding groin pain associated with resisted hip adduction. Although this study was designed as a single-cohort longitudinal study, the data suggest that the intervention described can change TA resting thickness. The intervention did not influence abdominal muscle relative thickness during lower extremity tasks. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapy, level 4.J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(10):724-732. doi:10.2519/jospt.2009.3068. PMID: 19801814 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Physical Therapy)

Trapezius muscle timing during selected shoulder rehabilitation exercises.

Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: With the exception of the LT during prone extension, the prone extension exercise and the prone horizontal abduction with external rotation exercise promote early activation of the MT and LT in relation to the scapular and glenohumeral prime mover. Taking into account the limited generalizability of the results due to a narrow age range, these exercises are potentially promising for the treatment of intermuscular and intramuscular timing disorders of the trapezius muscle. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(10):743-752. doi:10.2519/jospt.2009.3089. PMID: 19801813 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Physical Therapy)

A randomized sham-controlled trial of a neurodynamic technique in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: The sham intervention was successful in blinding the participants. Immediate changes in pain sensitivity and intensity and 3-week changes in clinical pain intensity and upper extremity disability associated with NDT were equivalent to a sham intervention to which the participants were adequately blinded. Conversely, reduction of temporal summation was only observed in participants receiving the NDT, suggesting the potential of a favorable neurophysiological effect. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapy, level 1b. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(10):709-723. doi:10.2519/jospt.2009.3117. PMID: 19801812 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Physical Therapy)

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Making decisions about service delivery in early childhood programs.

Language, Speech, and Hearing Services in Schools — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: To establish fluid service delivery models, therapists need to (a) plan collaboratively with teachers so that the model selected meets the teacher's preferences, (b) design flexible scheduling systems that emphasize inclusive practice, and (c) maintain precise documentation about when and how services are provided. PMID: 19801403 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Language, Speech, and Hearing Services in Schools)

Leg Movement Training In Preterm Infants Demonstrates Positive Changes In Motor Skills

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 16:00:00 +0100

Preterm infants who receive leg movement training display feet-reaching behaviors similar to that of full-term infants, according to a randomized controlled trial reported in the October issue of Physical Therapy (PTJ), the scientific journal of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Read this, Senators: Taiwan's universal health care system provides full coverage for $21 a month - why can't we?

NaturalNews.com — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 07:00:00 +0100

(NaturalNews) When people ask why I oppose Obama's health care reform proposals, I point out what a consumer (and employer) rip-off the current system of pharmaceutical medicine really is. Americans are victims in a monopoly medical scam that's enforced by the FDA and FTC with lots of propaganda support from the mainstream media and Big Pharma. This fraudulent monopoly system causes Americans to pay the highest prices in the world for pharmaceuticals and health care, even while receiving remarkably poor results in their own health status.Sadly, even Obama's health reform plan does little to change this situation: It still traps Americans in a system of overpriced, over-hyped and aggressively marketed pharmaceuticals that harm far more people than they help.The average American family is ri...

Fourth International Ankle Symposium - July 16-18, Sydney, Australia

The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Kathryn M. Refshauge, Claire HillerThe Fourth International Ankle Symposium (IAS4, a multidisciplinary conference focused on topics related to ankle injury, was recently held in Sydney, Australia at the University of Sydney. The conference theme was "new dimensions on old problems," with a different emphasis on each day of the symposium: new dimensions on science, new dimensions on interventions, and new dimensions in the clinic, reflecting the mix of basic science and clinical practice. This issue includes a summary statement of the conference, abstracts of the invited lectures and workshops, and the abstracts of the original research presentations, both podium and poster presentations, from IAS4.J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(10):A1-A24. (Source: The Journal of Orthopaedic a...

Book Reviews

The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Kyle T. Ebersole, Cynthia M. Chiarello, Louis C. Almekinders, Mark R. Erickson, Edgar Torres, Joanette Lima, Bruce Greenfield, Peter J. CarekThe JOSPT offers invited reviews of current titles. The October 2009 column includes 8 reviews of the following books: Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation: A Sport-Specific Approach, Second Edition; Kinesiology: The Mechanics and Pathomechanics of Human Movement, Second Edition; Pharmacology for the Physical Therapist; Teaching Atlas of Musculoskeletal Imaging; Spine Surgery: Tricks of the Trade, Second Edition; Save Your Hands: The Complete Guide to Injury Prevention and Ergonomics for Manual Therapists, Second Edition; Orthopedic Oncology: Diagnostic and Treatment; and Clinical Tests for the Musculoskeletal System: Examinations-Signs-Phenomena. (Sour...

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Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury and Bucket Handle Tear of the Medial Meniscus

The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Elissa R. Ballas, Charles A. StillmanThe patient was a 27-year-old man with an acute onset of right knee pain, subsequent to a twisting injury that occurred while playing soccer earlier in the day. He was evaluated via direct-access physical therapy 5 hours after the injury. He did not report giving way and locking, but did report feeling a "pop" upon injury. Based on the patient's history and physical examination findings, the therapist was concerned about the possibility of anterior cruciate ligament disruption and medial meniscus tear. The physical therapist ordered conventional radiographs to rule out bony pathology and magnetic resonance imaging of the right knee to assess for internal derangement. The conventional radiographs of the knee were interpreted as normal, whil...

Acute Bony Bankart Lesion and Surgical Fixation

The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Michael D. Rosenthal, Matthew T. ProvencherThe patient was a 25-year-old man who sustained a traumatic left anterior shoulder dislocation. After self-reducing the first time, as well as in subsequent repeated dislocations over the following 2-day period, the patient reported his injury to the medical staff, who sent him to the physical therapist for evaluation. Anterior-posterior, scapular outlet, and axillary radiographic views demonstrated a bony glenoid lesion consistent with a bony Bankart lesion, which was best seen on the scapular outlet view. A 3-dimensional computed tomography scan was performed to assess the size and displacement of the bony Bankart lesion. Six days following injury, the patient underwent operative fixation of the bony Bankart lesion. Following surgery, the patien...

Structural Factors Associated With Hallux Limitus/Rigidus: A Systematic Review of Case Control Studies

The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: This review of case control studies indicates that several variables pertaining to the structure of the first metatarsophalangeal joint may be associated with hallux limitus/rigidus. These findings have implications for the conservative and surgical treatment of the condition. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognosis, level 2a–. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(10):733-742. doi:10.2519/jospt.2009.3003KEY WORDS: arthritis, foot, hallux limitus,hallux rigidus, podiatry, risk factor (Source: The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy)

Clinical Interpretation of Computerized Adaptive Test Outcome Measures in Patients With Foot/Ankle Impairments

The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: CAT-generated outcome measures can be interpreted to improve clinical interpretation and to assist clinicians in using patient-reported outcomes during therapy practice.J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(10):753-764. doi:10.2519/jospt.2009.3122KEY WORDS: assessment of patient-reported outcomes, computerized adaptive testing, Lower Extremity Functional Scale, outpatient rehabilitation (Source: The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy)

Changes in Abdominal Muscle Thickness Measured by Ultrasound Are Not Associated With Recovery in Athletes With Longstanding Groin Pain Associated With Resisted Hip Adduction

The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: There was no association between changes in abdominal muscle resting thickness and relative thickness during lower extremity tasks, and change in self-reported sports restriction after a period of physical therapy in athletes with longstanding groin pain associated with resisted hip adduction. Although this study was designed as a single-cohort longitudinal study, the data suggest that the intervention described can change TA resting thickness. The intervention did not influence abdominal muscle relative thickness during lower extremity tasks. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapy, level 4.J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(10):724-732. doi:10.2519/jospt.2009.3068KEY WORDS: echography, groin injury, physical therapy, transversus (Source: The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Thera...

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Trapezius Muscle Timing During Selected Shoulder Rehabilitation Exercises

The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: With the exception of the LT during prone extension, the prone extension exercise and the prone horizontal abduction with external rotation exercise promote early activation of the MT and LT in relation to the scapular and glenohumeral prime mover. Taking into account the limited generalizability of the results due to a narrow age range, these exercises are potentially promising for the treatment of intermuscular and intramuscular timing disorders of the trapezius muscle. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(10):743-752. doi:10.2519/jospt.2009.3089KEY WORDS: lower trapezius, middle trapezius, posterior deltoid, scapula, upper trapezius (Source: The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy)

A Randomized Sham-Controlled Trial of a Neurodynamic Technique in the Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: The sham intervention was successful in blinding the participants. Immediate changes in pain sensitivity and intensity and 3-week changes in clinical pain intensity and upper extremity disability associated with NDT were equivalent to a sham intervention to which the participants were adequately blinded. Conversely, reduction of temporal summation was only observed in participants receiving the NDT, suggesting the potential of a favorable neurophysiological effect. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapy, level 1b. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2009;39(10):709-723. doi:10.2519/jospt.2009.3117 KEY WORDS: central sensitization, manual therapy, musculoskeletal pain, placebo (Source: The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy)

The relationship between upper extremity musculoskeletal symptoms attributed to work and risk factors in office workers

International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 04:05:09 +0100

Conclusions Various individual, work-related and psychosocial factors were identified to be associated with high prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms attributed to work in the shoulder and wrist/hand among office workers. Further research investigating the causal relation between these factors and musculoskeletal symptoms should be conducted. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticleDOI 10.1007/s00420-009-0466-xAuthors Prawit Janwantanakul, Chulalongkorn University Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences Bangkok ThailandPraneet Pensri, Chulalongkorn University Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences Bangkok ThailandWiroj Jiamjarasrangsi, Chulalongkorn University Department of Preventive and Social Medic...

Overground physical therapy gait training for chronic stroke patients with mobility deficits

Neurological Conditions Specialist Library — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 16:14:43 +0100

Systematic review pulished in Stroke in September 2009 (epub ahead of print). Bottom-line conclusion: There is insufficient evidence to determine whether overground gait training directly benefits broad measures of gait function. Results from recent studies, however, suggest that specific training protocols may provide limited benefits for more uni-dimensional performance variables like gait speed, TUG test, and 6MWT. (Source: Neurological Conditions Specialist Library)

National Athletic Trainers' Association's Fair Practice Lawsuit Settlement Benefits Members

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 10:00:00 +0100

The National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) announced today that an out-of-court settlement was reached in its Fair Practice Lawsuit against the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) on Sept. 21, 2009. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Development and Implementation of a Proactive Geriatrics Consultation Model in Collaboration with Hospitalists

Journal of the American Geriatrics Society — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Acutely ill hospitalized older adults often experience a decline in function that may be preventable using a proactive, interdisciplinary, patient-centered approach. Hospitalists are treating an increasing number of these patients. A collaborative geriatrics consultation model to prevent functional decline and improve care for older patients with geriatrics syndromes was developed and implemented in partnership with a large hospitalist group in a community teaching hospital. A team of a geriatrician and a geriatrics nurse practitioner led the new consultation service. The team assisted with identifying cases, provided consultation early in the hospital stay, focused its evaluation on functional and psychosocial issues, and assisted in clinical management to optimize implementation of recom...

Prosthetic Rehabilitation Issues in the Diabetic and Dysvascular Amputee

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Clinics of North America — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 17:16:39 +0100

Evaluation and management of diabetic and dysvascular patients with lower limb amputation begins with a thorough history and physical examination. A pre-prosthetic and prosthetic program of physical therapy, pain management, psychological assessment, and education helps patients resume functional mobility and gain acceptance of the limb loss. Physicians and prosthetic teams work together to design and prescribe the most appropriate prosthetic device for patients to reach maximal functional level. Careful monitoring of patients and a full understanding of patients' medical conditions help avoid complications and falls during rehabilitation. Long-term follow-up is necessary to assess fit and function of prosthetic devices. (Source: Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Clinics of North Americ...

Effects of exposure to hyperbaric oxygen on oxidative stress in rats with type II collagen-induced arthritis

Clinical and Experimental Medicine — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 05:48:18 +0100

Abstract Arthritis was induced in 9-week-old female Dark Agouti rats by injecting type II collagen. Serum levels of the derivatives of reactive oxygen metabolites (dROMs), which are oxidative stress markers, and C-reactive protein (CRP) in arthritic rats that were exposed to a pressure of 1.25 atmospheres absolute and an oxygen concentration of 36% for 3 weeks (arthritis + HBO group) were compared to those of control rats (control group) and arthritic rats that were not exposed to hyperbaric oxygen (arthritis group). The body weights of the arthritis and arthritis + HBO groups were lower than that of the control group, whereas no difference in the body weight was observed between the arthritis and arthritis + HBO groups. The serum levels o...

Prospective Payment System 2008 Home Health Therapy Utilization Trends

Home Health Care Management — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

The focus of this article is to identify therapy trends in prediction and utilization since the 2008 Home Health Prospective Payment System changes were implemented on January 1, 2008. The interdisciplinary attention is on the utilization of therapy services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech language pathology, in the home health setting, specific to beneficiaries using the Medicare Part A benefit. (Source: Home Health Care Management)

Is Esophagectomy the Paradigm for Volume–Outcome Relationships?

Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 14:35:16 +0100

Conclusions Young surgeons can perform esophagectomy with low mortality while their volume increases if they engage and involve all of the components in this paradigm. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory DeMeester FestschriftDOI 10.1007/s11605-009-1030-4Authors Brian E. Louie, Swedish Cancer Institute and Medical Center Section of Thoracic and Esophageal Surgery Suite 850, 1101 Madison Street Seattle WA 98105 USA Journal Journal of Gastrointestinal SurgeryOnline ISSN 1873-4626Print ISSN 1091-255X (Source: Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery)

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Women Living In Group Homes Need To Learn To Make Decisions About Leisure Time To Enrich Their Lives

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 11:00:00 +0100

Most people don't think twice about the ability to choose the movie they want to watch, the book they want to read or with whom they will have coffee. But what if you didn't have the choice, or were never taught how to make decisions regarding leisure activities? That's the reality for some women living in group homes according to a new study from the University of Alberta. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Physical Therapists Receive Clinical Specialist Recertification

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 10:00:00 +0100

The American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) announces that 243 physical therapists were awarded recertification in 2009 as board-certified clinical specialists. To date, more than 1,900 board-certified clinical specialists have been recertified. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

American Board Of Physical Therapy Specialties Recognizes Board-Certified Specialists

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 10:00:00 +0100

The American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) has awarded specialist certification to 1,001 physical therapists this year. Since 1985, 9,409 physical therapists have achieved board certification. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

APTA Urges For Reform To Increase Access To Physical Therapy Services Following Results Of Pilot On Musculoskeletal Conditions

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 08:00:00 +0100

In the wake of a report showing that patients with musculoskeletal conditions who receive physical therapy and other "physical medicine" services are less likely to have surgery, incur lower costs, and fare better than patients who do not receive such services, the American Physical Therapy Associati (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

An Intensive, Progressive Exercise Program Reduces Disability and Improves Functional Performance in Patients After Single-Level Lumbar Microdiskectomy.

Physical Therapy — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS:/b> An intensive, progressive exercise program combined with education reduces disability and improves function in patients who have undergone a single-level lumbar microdiskectomy. PMID: 19778981 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Physical Therapy)

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Comparison of Gluteus Medius Muscle Electromyographic Activity During Forward and Lateral Step-up Exercises in Older Adults.

Physical Therapy — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS:/b> Step-up exercises are effective in activating the GM muscle, with lateral step-up exercises requiring greater GM muscle activation than forward step-up exercises. Further study is needed to determine whether exercise programs for hip abductor muscle strengthening in older adults should preferentially include lateral over forward step-up exercises. PMID: 19778980 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Physical Therapy)

Education and support needs during recovery in acute respiratory distress syndrome survivors

Critical Care — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Our findings support the need for future educational and support interventions to meet the changing needs of ARDS survivors during their recovery. (Source: Critical Care)

Mild Exercise While in the ICU Reduces Bad Effects of Prolonged Bed Rest- 9/21/09

Johns Hopkins Medicine News — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 17:23:28 +0100

Critical care experts at Johns Hopkins are reporting initial success in boosting recovery and combating muscle wasting among critically ill, mostly bed-bound patients using any one of a trio of mild physical therapy exercises during their stays in the intensive care unit (ICU). (Source: Johns Hopkins Medicine News)

Virtual reality: Feasibility of implementation in a regional burn center

Burns : Journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 16:21:06 +0100

Conclusions: These results suggest VR requires a significant time commitment from staff for implementation. One clear disadvantage was the lack of on-site technical support for equipment troubleshooting. In the current healthcare environment where therapists and nurses are accounting for each minute, it would be difficult for smaller burn centers to allocate staff and resources to implement a VR program. Further research is needed to determine if VR benefits are worth the implementation costs. (Source: Burns : Journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries)

Prior nonhip limb fracture predicts subsequent hip fracture in institutionalized elderly people

Osteoporosis International — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 15:40:32 +0100

Conclusions A fracture history at upper or nonhip lower limbs, in combination with other known risk factors, is useful for the prediction of future hip fracture in institutional settings. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticleDOI 10.1007/s00198-009-1081-0Authors K. Nakamura, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences Department of Community Preventive Medicine 1-757 Asahimachi-dori, Chuo-ku Niigata 951-8510 JapanS. Takahashi, Niigata University School of Medicine 1-757 Asahimachi-dori, Chuo-ku Niigata 951-8510 JapanM. Oyama, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences Department of Community Preventive Medicine 1-757 Asahimachi-dori, Chuo-ku Niigata 951-8510 JapanR. Oshiki, Niigata University of Health and Wel...

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Bad Effects Of Prolonged Bed Rest Reduced In ICU By Mild Exercise

Public Health News From Medical News Today — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 14:00:00 +0100

Mild Exercise While In The ICU Reduces Bad Effects Of Prolonged Bed Rest

ScienceDaily Headlines — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 06:00:00 +0100

Critical care experts are reporting initial success in boosting recovery and combating muscle wasting among critically ill, mostly bed-bound patients using any one of a trio of mild physical therapy exercises during their stays in the intensive care unit. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

People with type 2 diabetes improved muscular strength

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 04:00:00 +0100

(American Physical Therapy Association) Physical therapist-directed exercise counseling combined with fitness center-based exercise training can improve muscular strength and exercise capacity in people with type 2 diabetes, with outcomes similar to those of supervised exercise, according to a randomized clinical trial published in the September issue of Physical Therapy, the scientific journal of the American Physical Therapy Association. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

People With Type 2 Diabetes Improved Muscular Strength

Diabetes News from dLife.com — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

In this study, 24 people with type 2 diabetes were randomly allocated to either an experimental group that received two months of physical therapist-directed exercise counseling and fitness center-based exercise training or a comparison group that received two months of laboratory-based, supervised exercise. Exercise training for all participants consisted of resistance training (chest press, row, and leg press exercises) and aerobic training (walking or jogging on a treadmill) as recommended for people with type 2 diabetes by the American Diabetes Association and the American College of Sports Medicine. Participants in the experimental group received a face-to-face counseling session at baseline and one month after baseline, weekly 10-minute telephone calls, and seven-day-per-week access ...

People With Type 2 Diabetes Improved Muscular Strength

Diabetes News from dLife.com — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

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Oropharyngeal Dysphagia in Infants and Children with Infantile Pompe Disease

Dysphagia — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 23:28:57 +0100

Abstract Pompe disease is a rare genetic progressive neuromuscular disorder. The most severe form, infantile Pompe disease, has historically resulted in early mortality, most commonly due to cardiorespiratory failure. Treatment with enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) using alglucosidase alfa (Myozyme®) has extended the lifespan of individuals with this disease. With the introduction of ERT and the resultant improved survival, dysphagia is being encountered clinically with increasing regularity though systematic data remain unavailable. We retrospectively studied the oropharyngeal swallowing of 13 infants and children with Pompe disease using videofluoroscopy before initiation of ERT, allowing for baseline swallow function to be established in an untreated cohort. Dysphagia w...

Endoscopic Gastrocnemius Recession for Treating Equinus in Pediatric Patients.

Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

We report an alternative approach to endoscopic gastrocnemius recessions in neurologically healthy pediatric and adolescent patients whose gastrocnemius equinus could not be corrected nonoperatively. We prospectively followed 23 patients (16 boys, seven girls) who underwent 40 procedures for equinus deformity (n = 22) or osteoarthritis (n = 1). All patients had been directly referred for surgical treatment because all previous nonoperative treatments (stretching, night splints, orthotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and physical therapy) had failed. The indications for surgery were patients age 18 years or younger experiencing symptomatic equinus unresponsive to nonoperative care. Pre- and postoperative ankle dorsiflexion were measured. The minimum followup for study inclusion wa...

Physical Therapists Offer Tips For Falls Prevention In Aging Adults

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 20:00:00 +0100

As the nation observes Falls Prevention Awareness Day on September 22, the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) is urging older adults to schedule a balance and falls assessment with a physical therapist to reduce risk of falls and related injuries. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Use of an audience response system during peer teaching among physical therapy students in human gross anatomy: Perceptions of peer teachers and students

Anatomical Sciences Education — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

This study used a ten-item questionnaire and a five-point Likert scale in addition to three open ended questions to survey perceptions of both first-year and second-year DPT students about the usefulness of ARS technology implemented during weekly interactive peer teaching sessions during a semester course in Anatomy for Physical Therapists. First-year students overwhelmingly acknowledged the ARS system permitted each student to self-assess his/her preparedness for a quiz or examination and compare his/her performance with that of classmates. Peer teachers recognized an ARS quiz provided them an opportunity to: (1) estimate first-year students' level of understanding of anatomical concepts; and (2) effectively prepare first-year students for their weekly quizzes and future examinations. On...

Associations of Supported Treadmill Stepping With Walking Attainment in Preterm and Full-Term Infants.

Physical Therapy — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS:/b> The emergence of walking may involve cooperation of alternating pattern generation, interjoint coordination, and interlimb coordination in supported stepping in preterm and full-term infants. The identified step predictors may assist clinicians in designing appropriate treadmill training programs for those infants with delayed walking. PMID: 19762484 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Physical Therapy)

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Academic Difficulty and Program-Level Variables Predict Performance on the National Physical Therapy Examination for Licensure: A Population-Based Cohort Study.

Physical Therapy — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS:/b> Student performance on the NPTE was influenced by multiple factors, but the most important, potentially modifiable risk factor for poor NPTE performance likely is academic difficulty during professional training. PMID: 19762483 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Physical Therapy)

Overground Physical Therapy Gait Training for Chronic Stroke Patients With Mobility Deficits.

Stroke — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: There is insufficient evidence to determine whether overground gait training directly benefits broad measures of gait function. Results from recent studies, however, suggest that specific training protocols may provide limited benefits for more uni-dimensional performance variables like gait speed, TUG test, and 6MWT. PMID: 19762704 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Stroke)

Acute clinical benefits of chest wall-stretching exercise on expired tidal volume, dyspnea and chest expansion in a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A single case study

Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 17:51:15 +0100

Summary: Chest physical therapy (CPT) has an important role in a medical team to assist in resolving the critical problems deriving from chronic lung disease.These critical problems include increased secretion volume, difficult breathing or dyspnea, ineffective coughing, inability to be weaned off a ventilator, and physical deterioration resulting from low aerobic capacity and endurance after prolonged bed rest. The inability to be weaned off a ventilator does not only result from secretion production or muscle weakness, but other conditions including chest stiffness or immobility. The procedure to increase chest mobility includes specific chest stretching and mobilization. Chest wall-stretching exercises were composed of thoracic rotation and anterior compression with stretching in sittin...

APTA Supports President Obama's Call For Elimination Of Arbitrary Limits On Health Care Services

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 10:00:00 +0100

In his speech before Congress on Wednesday, President Obama called for the elimination of arbitrary limits on health care services that Americans can receive in a given year or in a lifetime -- a policy that the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) supports as the nation's leaders work to guarantee access to affordable health care for all individuals through health care reform. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)