The FIFA 11+ injury prevention program reduces the incidence of lower extremity injuries in football players: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: The FIFA 11+ preventive program is designed to reduce the incidence of injury in sports. However, to gain a better understanding of its effect a systematic review and meta-analysis is needed. The current review aims to investigate the effect of the FIFA 11+ preventive program on injury incidence among male and female football players. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: This study used Scopus, PEDro, SPORTDiscus, and ProQuest as data sources. The initial selection of the studies, thorough assessment of the tile, and abstract. Extraction of the necessary study data was conducted by two independent researchers. Another two independent researchers assessed the quality of each included study against 39 used criteria. These criteria were combined from several popular quality assessment scales. The incidence of injuries measured in the lower extremities in football players after addressing the FIFA11+ was the outcome of interest. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: This review included 12 trials of variable methodological quality from which 10 trials were selected for the meta-analysis. In general, the FIFA11+ program showed a significant reduction (P<0.1) in lower limb injury incidence for male young and adults in comparison to other programs. However, evidence of its effectiveness in females is lacking and more studies are needed. CONCLUSIONS: The FIFA 11+ program is recommended to be used and implemented as a preventive strategy in males. Although, the result showed a significant reduction in injury incidence in adult males, heterogeneity between studies is high which may reduce the generalizability of the results. More studies are needed to investigate the effect of the FIFA 11+ program on females.

Association Between Calf Muscle Tone, Plantar Surface Area, and Gross Motor Function in Children with Spastic Diplegic Cerebral Palsy.

Background: Children diagnosed with spastic diplegic Cerebral Palsy (CP) usually demonstrate hypertonicity of the lower limb muscles which affects the normal alignments and weight reception by the feet. These impairments could be correlated to the limitations in gross motor function such as standing and walking abilities. Understanding these relationships can contribute to developing more effective rehabilitation strategies and improving overall motor outcomes for affected children. Objective: The current study was designed to explore the relationship between plantar surface area, weight distribution on the plantar surface, and gross motor function (namely, standing and walking abilities) in spastic diplegic CP children. Methods: Seventy-one spastic diplegic CP children aged 8-14 years joined this cross-sectional study. The Person's correlation coefficient and regression tests were used to assess the correlation between variables, namely, Gross Motor Function (GMFM), Calf Muscle Tone, Plantar surface area (PSA), and Peak pressure on mid and hind feet (PPMF, PPHF, respectively). These variables were assessed using the GMFM-88 scale, Modified Ashworth scale, and foot scan plantar pressure detection system, respectively. Results: The correlation analysis demonstrated a strong to moderate positive correlation between PSA, PPMF, PPHF, and GMFM-D and GMFM-E. Additionally, regression model showed prediction levels equal to 0.791 for the GMFM-D and 0.720 for the GMFM-E categories, respectively. Conclusion: Standing and walking abilities were positively correlated (r ≥.6) with the increased plantar surface area and higher peak pressure on mid and hind feet in spastic diplegic CP. Future longitudinal studies should investigate changes in gross motor function in relation to improvement in plantar surface area and peak pressure values.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Functional Capacity and Pulmonary Outcomes in the Hail Region: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background/Objectives: COVID-19, caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, has had a significant impact on life worldwide since its emergence in late 2019. The virus has caused a global pandemic, leading to widespread health, social, economic, and psychological effects. COVID-19 mainly affects the respiratory system. This study aimed to compare the functional capacity and pulmonary function outcomes between COVID-19 patients and individuals who have not been infected in the Hail region. Methods: Individuals of both genders above 18 years old who had been infected with COVID-19 in the previous 6 months or had never been infected were eligible to participate. Local hospitals and social media apps were used to recruit willing participants. Heart rate, pulse oxygen saturation, blood pressure, pulmonary function test, hand grip strength, and functional tests (6 min walk test, 30 s sit-to-stand test, and timed up and go test) were measured and compared between the groups. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS Version 25. Results: Forty individuals affected with COVID-19 and forty-one healthy individuals were recruited. Our results showed that in individuals affected with COVID-19, scores on the minute ventilation, 30 s sit-to-stand, and 6 min walk tests were significantly lower than among healthy individuals. Other outcomes did not show any statistical differences between the groups. Conclusion: This study contributes to a greater understanding of the functional capacity status of individuals with COVID-19. Patients affected by COVID-19 may develop an impaired lung capacity and a decreased function capacity. These factors may negatively affect physical and cognitive health status. Future studies should evaluate the benefits of interventions with rehabilitation exercises following COVID-19. In light of the functional capacity and pulmonary function decline in individuals affected by COVID-19, interventions encompassing pulmonary and functional rehabilitation exercises are recommended to improve physical fitness and pulmonary function post-COVID-19.

Visceral Block in Bariatric Surgery: A Pilot Double Blind Randomized Clinical Study.

BACKGROUND: Local anesthetics are used in various sites and mechanisms to maximize perioperative analgesia and reduce opioid use and side effects. Pain management in the bariatric setting is challenging and the efficacy of local anesthetics intraoperatively is under current evaluation. OBJECTIVES: To determine the safety and efficacy of a new intra-abdominal anesthetic technique performed during laparoscopic bariatric operations: visceral block. METHODS: During this prospective randomized double-blinded pilot study, 16 patients undergoing bariatric surgery were treated with the injection of ropivacaine to the anterior esophagogastric junction fat, and 15 were injected with saline as control. RESULTS: The procedure was shown to be safe, and no adverse events nor side effects were encountered. A non-statistically significant trend toward the use of a non-opioid analgesia was documented during the first postoperative hours. CONCLUSIONS: Visceral block is a safe and feasible intraoperative procedure. A trend toward its efficacy warrants future larger scale studies.

Effectiveness of Virtual Reality on Rehabilitation of Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain Patients.

BACKGROUND: Virtual reality (VR) is used extensively for musculoskeletal conditions, but its efficacy in chronic low back pain still needs more investigation. OBJECTIVE: To discuss the effectiveness of VR on selected outcomes in Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain (CNSLBP). METHODS: Thirty-five patients with CNSLBP joined this study. Postural correction exercises using the TBed VR gaming system in addition to hamstring stretching were employed, and moist heat on the low back was applied. Pre- and post-intervention values of pain, ROM, function, and balance (overall stability index) were obtained using the numerical rating pain scale (NPRS), Oswestry Disability Index, back range of motion (BROM), and Biodex system. Satisfaction level on a 1-10 scale and the degree of commitment to the exercise sessions were assessed after the intervention. RESULTS: The patients completed the intervention period and outcome measures sessions. Paired t-tests reported statistically significant improvements and high effect size in pain, ROM, function, and balance after the end of the treatment (p < 0.001, Cohen's d > 0.69). The level of satisfaction was 9.25 ± 0.766, and the commitment to exercise sessions was high (98.75% attendance rate). CONCLUSIONS: Applying postural correction using TBed VR gaming in addition to heat and stretching may improve pain, range of motion, function, and balance in patients with chronic low back pain.

Using Inspiratory Muscle Training to Improve Respiratory Strength, Functional Capacity, Fatigue, and Stress in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Surgery.

Purpose: The main aim of the trial was to assess the effectiveness of inspiratory muscle training on respiratory muscle strength, functional capacity, fatigue, and stress in post-surgical breast cancer survivors. Methods: Forty-seven females who had undergone unilateral post-mastectomy were randomly assigned to an intervention group (IG; n = 24) and a control group (CG; n = 23). Both groups received aerobic exercise training. In addition, the intervention group received inspiratory muscle training 3 days a week for 8 weeks. Maximum inspiratory and expiratory pressure (Pimax) (Pemex), 6-minute walk test, Handgrip strength by hand-held dynamometer, Fatigue Assessment Scale (FAS), and Perceived Stress Scale pss 10 values were measured before the training and then at the eighth week for both groups. Results: No differences were detected between the groups in terms of sample and clinical characteristics 8 weeks post-intervention. In favor of the intervention group, a significant difference with medium to high effect size was found in terms of Pimax, Pemax, FAS, PS, and 6MWT (p < 0.05). However, there was no difference in terms of handgrip strength (p-value: 0.072), with a medium effect size (0.070). Regarding within-group comparisons, IG exhibited substantial differences in all outcome measures (p < 0.05) compared to CG, with the exception of PImax and 6MWT. Conclusion: In post-operative breast cancer survivors, respiratory muscle training combined with aerobic training increases respiratory muscle strength and functional ability while lowering stress and tiredness.

Short-Term and Long-Term Impact of COVID-19 on Quality of Life and Psychological Outcomes in Saudi Arabia: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: Prior research has revealed notable declines in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and substantial psychological impacts among individuals infected with COVID-19. However, there is a noticeable gap in studies addressing the enduring long-term effects of COVID-19 on HRQoL and psychological well-being. Objective: The current study investigated and compared short and long-term effects of COVID-19 on HRQoL and psychological outcomes among the Saudi population. Methods: The Arabic version of the SF-36 questionnaire was used to assess HRQoL while Anxiety and depression were evaluated by the Hamilton Anxiety (HAM-A) and Depression Scales (HDRS). Participants (n=292) were categorized into three groups: the "never-been-infected" group (n=134), the "one-year infected group" (n=43), and the "more than one year infected" group (n=115). Descriptive statistics were presented using numerical values and frequencies. To compare the groups, a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test was used. Results: Most SF-36 domains exhibited lower values while HAM-A and HDRS values were higher in individuals infected during last year compared to those who never infected. Social functioning subscale of the SF-36 showed a significant difference between the groups (F (2.289) = 6.094, p = 0.01) and the effect size was d = 0.95. Pairwise comparison showed a significant reduction in the social functioning component of SF-36 in "one-year group" compared to both groups "never-been-infected" group (mean difference -13.58 (4.40-22.76) p < 0.01) and "more than one year infected" group (mean difference -10.80 (1.44-20.16) p = 0.02). HAM-A and HDRS scores showed mild levels of anxiety (<17 score) and depression (8 to 16 score) in all groups. Conclusion: The influence of COVID-19 on psychological well-being and HRQoL is significant regardless of whether individuals infected with the virus. Overall, the consistent presence of mild anxiety and depression across all groups highlights the need for a holistic approach to mental health.

The Effect of Kinesio Taping on Balance and Dynamic Stability in College-Age Recreational Runners with Ankle Instability.

(1) Background: Running is one of many sports that have increased in popularity since it can be conducted at any time or anywhere. Ankle instability is a common injury that usually occurs during running and is usually associated with abnormalities in postural stability. Recently, kinesio taping has gained increasing interest as a tool that can be used in rehabilitation, to improve stability, and to help in injury prevention. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Kinesio taping on balance and dynamic stability in recreational runners with ankle instability. (2) Methods: This randomized controlled trial recruited 90 RRs with ankle instability. The participants were randomly divided into three equal groups: a KT group (KTG) who received Kinesio taping on their ankle joints; a mixed group (MG) who received Kinesio taping and exercises; and an exercise group (EG) who received exercises only. Outcome measures (balance and dynamic stability) were assessed before and after the end of an 8-week treatment program using a Biodex balance system and a star excursion balance test, respectively. (3) Results: Within-group comparisons showed statistically significant improvements in most of the outcome values when compared to baseline. Overall stability index was statistically significantly better (with a high effect size) in the MG compared to KTG or EG (p = 0.01, Cohen's d = 1.6, and p < 0.001, Cohen's d = 1.63, respectively). A similar finding was evident in the anteroposterior stability index (p = 0.02, Cohen's d = 0.95, and p < 0.001, Cohen's d = 1.22, respectively). The mediolateral stability index of the KTG was statistically significantly better with a high effect size when compared to MG or EG (p = 0.04, Cohen's d = 0.6, and p < 0.01, Cohen's d = 0.96, respectively). The star excursion balance test values were statistically significant with high effect sizes in the posterior (p = 0.002, Cohen's d = 1.2) and lateral (p < 0.02, Cohen's d = 0.92) directions in the MG compared to KTG and EG. (4) Conclusions: Kinesiotape with exercises is superior to either kinesiotape alone or exercises alone in improving postural stability indices and dynamic stability in recreational runners with ankle instability. Recreational runners with ankle instability should be educated about practicing balance exercises and applying kinesiotape.

Prevalence and management of hyperkalemia in chronic kidney disease and heart failure patients in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

Hyperkalemia is a frequent complication in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or heart failure (HF) and associated with neuromuscular manifestations, changes in the electrocardiogram, and increased risk of mortality. While data on the prevalence and management of hyperkalemia in the gulf region are scarce, risk factors such as preference for potassium-rich foods (e.g., dates and dried fruits/vegetables), periods of intense fasting (e.g., Ramadan), and diabetes (an ancestor of CKD and HF) are common. Therefore, a panel of nephrologists and cardiologists from countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) convened to collate and review available data on the prevalence, regional drivers, and current practice in the management of hyperkalemia in the region. Eventually, this review provides consensus recommendations on a balanced utilization of dietary and pharmacological options including new potassium binders for achieving and sustainably maintaining desirable serum potassium levels in countries of the GCC region. Alignment with regional habits and practice was a key aspect to facilitate the uptake of the recommendations into physicians' practice and patients' lives.

Short term effect of spinal mobilization with movement (MWM) on pulmonary functions in nonsmokers with thoracic hyperkyphosis: a randomized single-blinded controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effect of mobilization with movement (MWM) on pulmonary functions in subjects with thoracic hyperkyphosis. METHODS: This randomized single-blinded controlled trial included a sample of 50 subjects (age 18 - 25 years old) with thoracic hyperkyphosis. Subjects were randomly allocated into two groups; the Real MWM group (n = 25) which received thoracic MWM plus standard postural correction exercises, and the Sham MWM group (n = 25) which received sham MWM plus standard postural correction exercises. Digital X-ray and handheld spirometer were used to measure selected pulmonary function tests (FVC, FEV1/FVC ratio, MVV) respectively. RESULTS: Within-group comparisons demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in all outcome measures in both groups. The between-group comparisons demonstrated significant improvement in the MWM compared to the Sham group regarding the value of FVC, FEV1/FVC ratio, and MVV (P < .05). CONCLUSION: In young adults with thoracic hyperkyphosis, MWM plus postural exercise produces better improvements in FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, and MVV compared to sham MWM plus postural exercise.