Molla Fentanew*, Gashaw Jember Belay, Misganaw Belay, Melese Gobezie, Gebremariam Bekele, Kefale Getie, Kassaw Belay Shiferaw and Mihret Dejen Takele
DOI: 10.37421/2573-0312.2023.8.336
Background: Accurate evaluation of inadequacy of physical activity for hypertensive patients is important to determine patients’ health outcomes and intervention measures. Information about physical inactivity among patients with hypertension in Ethiopia is not well known. Therefore; this study was aimed to assess the inadequacy of physical activity and its associated factors among hypertensive patients.
Methods: An institution based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 11 to June 12, 2021 among 423 selected adult hypertensive patients attending at the university of Gondar comprehensive specialized hospital. Face to face interview was conducted using a structured questionnaire by trained data collectors. Participants were selected through a systematic random sampling technique. Physical activity was assessed by Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ). Data were analyzed by using SPSS version-20 statistical software. Both bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis was computed and in the multivariable logistic regression analysis model Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with 95% Confidence Interval (CI) and p-value less than 0.05 were used to identify the associated factors with physical activities.
Results: Our study showed that 80.9% (95% CI; 76.8-84.5) had adequate physical activity, being old age (AOR: 10.289, 95% CI (3.208-33.006), low or poor self-efficacy (AOR: 10.339, 95% CI (4.894-21.838), poor self-rated health (AOR: 5.905, 95% CI (1.725-20.128), and lack of adequate facilities (AOR: 4.074, 95% CI (1.719-9.658) were significantly associated with inadequate physical activity.
Conclusion: Our study found that majority of the hypertensive patients had adequate physical activity. Being old age, poor self-efficacy, lack of adequate facilities, and poor self-rated health were associated factors for inadequate physical activity.
This randomized trial investigates the short-term effects of cold therapy and kinesio taping on pain relief and upper extremity functionality in individuals with rotator cuff tendonitis. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either cold therapy, kinesio taping, or standard care for two weeks. Pain intensity was measured using the Visual Analog Scale, shoulder functionality was assessed with the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index and range of motion was evaluated through goniometric measurements. Both cold therapy and kinesio taping significantly improved pain relief and functional outcomes compared to standard care. Cold therapy was particularly effective in reducing pain intensity, while kinesio taping notably enhanced shoulder range of motion. These findings suggest that integrating both treatments into rehabilitation protocols may offer comprehensive benefits for individuals with rotator cuff tendonitis, combining immediate pain relief with improved functional recovery.
This randomized clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of telerehabilitation interventions for improving functional outcomes in older adults. Specifically, the study compares vestibular physiotherapy and multicomponent exercise delivered through telehealth platforms. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either vestibular physiotherapy, focusing on balance and vestibular function, or multicomponent exercise, which included strength, balance and flexibility training. Over an 8-week period, both interventions resulted in significant functional improvements, as measured by the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) scale. The vestibular physiotherapy group demonstrated significant gains in balance and confidence, while the multicomponent exercise group showed notable enhancements in overall functional ability. These findings suggest that both telerehabilitation approaches are effective, with each offering unique benefits to older adults’ functional improvement.
This study investigates the effects of incorporating aquatic therapy into standard physiotherapy treatment on systemic inflammatory markers in patients with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI). A randomized controlled trial was conducted with SCI patients assigned to either a standard physiotherapy group or a combined aquatic therapy and physiotherapy group. Systemic inflammation was assessed by measuring levels of C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) before and after an 8-week intervention period. Results indicated that patients receiving combined aquatic therapy and standard physiotherapy experienced significant reductions in CRP and IL-6 levels compared to those receiving only standard physiotherapy. These findings suggest that aquatic therapy may enhance the anti-inflammatory effects of traditional physiotherapy, potentially improving overall rehabilitation outcomes for individuals with SCI.
This systematic review examines the role of robotic technology in enhancing Cardiac Rehabilitation (CR) programs. It synthesizes evidence from various studies on the application of robotic systems, such as exoskeletons and robotic trainers, in improving cardiovascular fitness, physical function, and overall quality of life in patients undergoing CR. The review includes randomized controlled trials and observational studies that assess the efficacy of robotic-assisted interventions compared to traditional CR methods. Findings indicate that robotic systems can provide controlled, adaptable, and repetitive exercises, potentially leading to significant improvements in rehabilitation outcomes. However, challenges such as high costs, technical complexity, and the need for further long-term studies are identified. The review highlights the potential benefits of integrating robotics into CR programs and calls for future research to address existing gaps and optimize implementation strategies.
Neetu Rani Dhiman*, Vyom Gyanpuri and Venkatesh Mishra
DOI: 10.37421/2573-0312.2022.7.266
Background and Aim: Myofascial Release (MFR) is a soft tissue mobilisation technique that has been widely researched and supported to increase muscular flexibility and joint range of motion along Superficial Back Line (SBL) structures. The purpose of the present study is to examine and compare the acute effects of MFR and post-isometric relaxation (PIR) applied on plantar fascia, on flexibility of superficial back line (hamstring muscle).
Design: This was a pilot single blind Randomized Control Trial (RCT).
Participants: Thirty young healthy students (24 boys and 6 girls; mean age 21.46 ± 0.97)
Methods: Inclusion and exclusion criteria were followed, and baseline measurements for the Toe-Touch Test (TTT) and active Straight Leg Raise Test (SLRT) were obtained. Subjects were then ran-domly assigned to the MFR group and the PIR group. The MFR group received the technique on plantar surface of the feet by applying a gentle and sustained pressure into the myofascial connective tissue. The PIR group received the technique on plantar flexors by placing them in stretched position, performing isometric contraction followed by relaxation and lengthening. Both interventions will be performed for 10 minutes. Afterwards, the Toe Touch Test and straight leg raise test were re-assessed.
Results: Before and after intervention SLRT (both right and left) and TTT difference (within group differences) is statistically significant (p<0.05) in both MFR and PIR group. Between-group com-parison also shows significant difference in both groups with p<0.05. The MFR group showed a significant difference in the SLR test and Toe Touch test compared to the PIR group (p<0.05).
Conclusion: The results of the current study showed that MFR on the planter fascia was immediate-ly effective for improving flexibility of the SBL for the hamstring muscle.
Trial registration: CTRI/2021/08/035518