Effects of activity repetition training with Salat (prayer) versus task oriented training on functional outcomes of stroke.

Stroke is one of most disabling condition which directly affects quality of life. The objective of this study was to compare the effect of activity repetition training with salat (prayer) versus task oriented training on functional outcomes of stroke. The study design was randomized control trial and 32 patients were randomly assigned into two groups'. The stroke including infarction or haemorrhagic, age bracket 30-70 years was included. The demographics were recorded and standardized assessment tool included Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Motor assessment scale (MAS) and Time Up and Go Test (TUG). The measurements were obtained at baseline, after four and six weeks. The mean age of the patients was 54.44±10.59 years with 16 (59%) male and 11(41%) female patients. Activity Repetition Training group showed significant improvement (p<0.05) and is effective in enhancing the functional status as compare to task oriented training group. The repetition with motivation and concentration is the key in re-learning process of neural plasticity.

Study of Human Biochemical Parameters During and After Ramadan.

Ramadan fasting is obligatory for Muslims each year. They abstain from drinking, eating and intimate relationship between dawn and dusk during this month. Dietary restriction during Ramadan has various biochemical and physiological effects. It is shown to decrease the body weight, glucose and lipid profile. This study aims to analyze the changes in body weight, glucose and lipid profile during Ramadan in physiotherapy students in Pakistan. The study was conducted during June-July 2013 (Hijri year 1434). There were 80 students (50 males and 30 females) recruited in the experiment. They all were healthy adults between the age group of 18-24 (mean age 20.5) years. All subjects underwent a general physical examination and interview, and non-healthy subjects were excluded. On statistical analysis, quantitative data were expressed in terms of mean ± SD and a p value of ≤0.05 was believed statically significant. Paired t test was used to compare the variables. There was a little reduction in body weight (62.7 ± 8.8 vs. 62.3 ± 9.0; p value = 0.009) but a significant decline in glucose level (72.6 ± 12.5 vs. 57.9 ± 10.7; p value = 0.000), low-density lipoprotein level (2.9 ± 0.3 vs. 2.5 ± 0.3; p value = 0.000), total cholesterol (4.6 ± 0.4 vs. 4.2 ± 0.5; p value = 0.000) and triglycerides (1.4 ± 0.5 vs. 1.2 ± 0.5; p value = 0.000) was observed. Moreover, there was some reduction in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level (1.2 ± 0.3 vs. 1.1 ± 0.3; p value = 0.045). This study shows that Ramadan fasting, a religious obligation for purification of body and soul, resulted in reduced body weight and a positive effect on glucose level and lipid profile.