Depressive symptoms and axial motor disorders in individuals with Parkinson's disease: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Depression is an important nonmotor symptom of Parkinson's disease (PD) and has been associated with the motor symptoms in these individuals. OBJECTIVES: To determine whether there are relationships between depressive symptoms and abnormalities in axial postural alignment and axial motor deficits, especially postural instability, and trunk rigidity in PD. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 65 individuals were evaluated using the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) for the analysis of depressive symptoms and underwent a postural assessment of head, trunk, and hip sagittal alignment through computerized photogrammetry. The MDS-UPDRS was used to assess clinical aspects of PD, the Trunk Mobility Scale was used to assess axial rigidity, and the MiniBESTest to assess balance. To determine the relationship between depressive symptoms and postural alignment, multiple linear regression analysis was performed. RESULTS: The participants with depressive symptoms had more severe motor deficits as well as greater trunk rigidity and worse postural instability (p < 0.05). When the postural angles were compared between men and women using Student's t-test, it was found that men had greater flexion angles of the head (p = 0.003) and trunk (p = 0.017). Using multiple linear regression analysis corrected for the age and sex of the participants, we verified that the anterior trunk inclination was significantly larger in the PD population with depressive symptoms (R2 = 0.453, ß = 0.116, and p = 0.045). CONCLUSION: PD individuals with depressive symptoms have more severe flexed trunk posture, mainly in older men. Additionally, more severe depressive symptoms are associated with worsening postural instability, trunk rigidity and motor deficits in this population.

ANTECEDENTES: A depressão é um sintoma não motor importante da doença de Parkinson (DP) e tem sido associada aos sintomas motores nesses indivíduos. OBJETIVOS: Determinar se existem relações entre sintomas depressivos e anormalidades no alinhamento postural axial e déficits motores axiais, especialmente instabilidade postural e rigidez de tronco na DP. MéTODOS: Neste estudo transversal, 65 indivíduos foram avaliados pelo BDI-II para análise de sintomas depressivos e submetidos à avaliação postural do alinhamento sagital de cabeça, tronco e quadril por meio de fotogrametria computadorizada. A MDS-UPDRS avaliou os aspectos clínicos, TMS avaliou rigidez axial e o MiniBESTest equilíbrio. Para determinar a relação entre sintomas depressivos e alinhamento postural, realizou-se uma análise de regressão linear múltipla. RESULTADOS: Os participantes com sintomas depressivos apresentaram déficits motores mais graves, bem como maior rigidez de tronco e pior instabilidade postural (p < 0,05). Quando comparados os ângulos posturais entre homens e mulheres pelo teste t de Student, verificou-se que os homens apresentaram maiores graus de flexão da cabeça (p = 0,003) e do tronco (p = 0,017). Por meio da análise de regressão linear múltipla corrigida para a idade e sexo dos participantes, verificamos que a inclinação anterior do tronco foi significativamente maior nos indivíduos com DP com sintomas depressivos do que sem sintomas depressivos (R2 = 0,453, ß = 0,116 e p = 0,045) CONCLUSãO: Indivíduos com DP com sintomas depressivos apresentam postura de tronco flexionado mais severa, principalmente em homens mais idosos. Além disso, os sintomas depressivos mais graves pioram significativamente a instabilidade postural, a rigidez do tronco e os déficits motores nessa população.

Access to rehabilitation after stroke in Brazil (AReA study): multicenter study protocol.

BACKGROUND: Most of the Brazilian population relies on public healthcare and stroke is a major cause of disability in this country of continental dimensions. There is limited information about access to rehabilitation after stroke in Brazil. OBJECTIVE: To provide comprehensive information about Access to Rehabilitation After discharge from public hospitals in Brazil (AReA study), up to 6 months after stroke. METHODS: The present study intends to collect information from 17 public health centers in 16 Brazilian cities in the 5 macroregions of the country. Each center will include 36 participants (n = 612). The inclusion criteria are: age ≥ 18 years old; ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke, from 6 months to 1 year prior to the interview; admission to a public hospital in the acute phase after stroke; any neurological impairment poststroke; patient or caregiver able to provide informed consent and answer the survey. Patients can only be recruited in public neurology or internal medicine outpatient clinics. Outcomes will be assessed by a standard questionnaire about rehabilitation referrals, the rehabilitation program (current status, duration in months, number of sessions per week) and instructions received. In addition, patients will be asked about preferences for locations of rehabilitation (hospitals, clinics, or at home). TRIAL STATUS: The study is ongoing. Recruitment started on January 31st, 2020 and is planned to continue until June 2022. CONCLUSION: The AReA study will fill a gap in knowledge about access to stroke rehabilitation in the public health system in different Brazilian regions.

ANTECEDENTES: Grande parte da população brasileira depende de saúde pública e o acidente vascular cerebral (AVC) é uma das principais causas de incapacidade neste país de dimensões continentais. As informações sobre o acesso à reabilitação após AVC em instalações públicas no Brasil são limitadas. OBJETIVO: Fornecer informações abrangentes sobre o Acesso à Reabilitação pós-AVC (estudo AReA) nos primeiros 6 meses após a alta hospitalar da rede pública. MéTODOS: Serão coletadas informações de 17 centros de saúde públicos em 16 cidades brasileiras das cinco macrorregiões do país. Cada centro incluirá 36 participantes (n = 612). Os critérios de inclusão são: idade ≥ 18 anos; AVC isquêmico ou hemorrágico, com tempo de lesão entre 6 meses e 1 ano; admissão em hospital público na fase aguda; qualquer comprometimento neurológico pós-AVC; paciente ou cuidador capaz de fornecer consentimento informado e responder à pesquisa. Os pacientes só podem ser recrutados em ambulatórios públicos de neurologia ou medicina interna. Os resultados serão avaliados por um questionário padrão sobre encaminhamentos de reabilitação, o programa de reabilitação (estado atual, duração em meses, número de sessões por semana) e instruções recebidas. Além disso, os pacientes serão questionados sobre as preferências de locais de reabilitação (hospitais, clínicas ou casa). STATUS DO ESTUDO: O estudo está em andamento. O recrutamento começou em 31 de janeiro de 2020 e está previsto para continuar até junho de 2022. CONCLUSãO: O estudo AReA preencherá uma lacuna no conhecimento sobre o acesso à reabilitação para AVC no sistema público de saúde em diferentes regiões brasileiras.

Effects of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation alone or as additional therapy on chronic post-stroke spasticity: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Purpose: To evaluate the effects and to compare transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation protocols, alone or as additional therapy in chronic post-stroke spasticity through a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.Methods: Search was conducted in MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, EMBASE and Physiotherapy Evidence Database through November 2017 (CRD42015020146). Two independent reviewers performed articles selection, data extraction and methodological quality assessment using the Cochrane Collaboration's risk of bias tool. The main outcome was spasticity assessed with Modified Ashworth Scale or other valid scale. Meta-analysis was conducted using random effects method, and pooled-effect results are mean difference with 95% confidence interval.Results: Of 6506 articles identified, 10 studies with 360 subjects were included in the review. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation alone or as additional therapy is superior to placebo TENS to reduce post-stroke spasticity assessed with Modified Ashworth Scale (-0.52 [-0.74 to -0.30] p < 0.0001, 6 studies), especially in lower limbs (-0.58 [-0.82 to -0.34] p < 0.0001, 5 studies), which is in accordance with the studies that used other scales. Low frequency TENS showed a slightly larger improvement than high-frequency, but without significant difference between subgroups. Most studies present low or unclear risk of bias.Conclusion: Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation can provide additional reduction in chronic post-stroke spasticity, mainly as additional therapy to physical interventions. Studies with better methodological quality and larger sample are needed to increase evidence power.Implications for RehabilitationTranscutaneous electrical nerve stimulation as additional treatment to physical interventions can lead to additional reduction in chronic post-stroke spasticity.High and low frequency transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation showed similar results, with a smaller numerical superiority of low frequency TENS.More studies are needed to substantiate the best protocol of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation to the treatment of spasticity.

Skilled forelimb reaching in Wistar rats: evaluation by means of Montoya staircase test.

Experimental animals have been used as models for several neurological disorders; their performance in behavioral tests is useful in determining the success of lesion repair procedures and assessing functional recovery. The staircase test is a behavioral test that consists in reaching for food inside a special box and allows for a sensitive measure of skilled reaching by each limb in an independent manner. In most laboratories in the south of Brazil, Wistar rats are used for the study of experimental stroke, hypoxia and peripheral neuropathy, but most studies with the staircase test have used other strains such as Sprague-Dawley and Long-Evans. Because skilled reaching, grasping and performance can differ among strains, the purpose of the present study was to characterize the performance of Wistar rats in the staircase test and determine the effect of median and ulnar nerve crush. Our results with Wistar rats on the staircase test showed that: similar to other strains, Wistar animals can display high performance after 2 weeks of training; the number of animals that attained the inclusion criterion increased by 10% with longer times of training; the stricter criterion of 15 pellets taken can be adopted as study inclusion criterion; the test has an unquestionable value in assessing lateralized deficits, as evidenced by the lack of performance deficit of the non-manipulated forelimb at any time point. These results extend the understanding about the performance of Wistar rats in the staircase test, which will be used for the best training and research using this strain.

Electric Stimulation for Pain Relief in Patients with Fibromyalgia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

BACKGROUND: Fibromyalgia (FM) is a syndrome whose primary symptoms include chronic widespread muscle pain and fatigue. The treatment of patients with FM aims to provide symptomatic relief and improvement in physical capacities to perform daily tasks and quality of life. Invasive or non-invasive electric stimulation (ES) is used for pain relief in patients with FM. OBJECTIVE: This systematic review aimed to assess the effects of treatment with ES, combined or not combined with other types of therapy, for pain relief in patients with FM. STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis. SETTING: Electronic search was conducted on databases (from the inception to April 2016): MEDLINE (accessed by PubMed), EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (Cochrane CENTRAL), and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro). METHODS: Two independent reviewers assessed the eligibility of studies based on the inclusion criteria: randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the effects of ES combined or not with other types of treatment for pain relief in patients with FM (according to the American College of Rheumatology), regardless of the ES dosages. The primary outcome was pain, assessed by the visual analogue scale (VAS). The secondary outcomes extracted were quality of life, assessed by short form-36 health survey (SF- 36), and fatigue, assessed by VAS. RESULTS: Nine studies were included, with 301 patients. The meta-analysis for pain showed positive effect of ES treatment versus control [-1.24 (95% CI: -2.39 to -0.08; I²: 87%, P = 0.04) n = 8 RCTs]. The sensitivity analysis for pain showed significant results for invasive ES, combined or not with other types of therapy [-0.94 (95% CI, -1.50 to -0.38; I² 0%, P = 0.001) n = 3 RCTs]. No significant improvement was found regarding quality of life [-3.48 (95% CI: -12.58 to 5.62; I²: 0%, P = 0.45), n = 2 RCTs] or fatigue [-0.57 (95% CI, -1.25 to 0.11; I² 34%, P = 0.100; n = 4 RCTs]. LIMITATIONS: This systematic review included a small number of studies and reduced number of participants in each study. Furthermore, most of the studies showed some biases and lack of methodological quality. CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis indicates that there is low-quality evidence for the effectiveness of ES for pain relief in patients with FM. However, moderate-quality evidence for the effectiveness of electroacupuncture (EA), combined or not combined with other types of treatment, was found for pain relief. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION: PROSPERO under the identification CRD42015025323Key words: Electric stimulation, electroacupuncture, transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation, pain, fibromyalgia, review, physical therapy, rehabilitation.

Depressive symptoms and axial motor disorders in individuals with Parkinson's disease: a cross-sectional study / Sintomas depressivos e distúrbios motores axiais em indivíduos com doença de Parkinson: um estudo transversal

Abstract Background Depression is an important nonmotor symptom of Parkinson's disease (PD) and has been associated with the motor symptoms in these individuals. Objectives To determine whether there are relationships between depressive symptoms and abnormalities in axial postural alignment and axial motor deficits, especially postural instability, and trunk rigidity in PD. Methods In this cross-sectional study, 65 individuals were evaluated using the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) for the analysis of depressive symptoms and underwent a postural assessment of head, trunk, and hip sagittal alignment through computerized photogrammetry. The MDS-UPDRS was used to assess clinical aspects of PD, the Trunk Mobility Scale was used to assess axial rigidity, and the MiniBESTest to assess balance. To determine the relationship between depressive symptoms and postural alignment, multiple linear regression analysis was performed. Results The participants with depressive symptoms had more severe motor deficits as well as greater trunk rigidity and worse postural instability (p < 0.05). When the postural angles were compared between men and women using Student's t-test, it was found that men had greater flexion angles of the head (p = 0.003) and trunk (p = 0.017). Using multiple linear regression analysis corrected for the age and sex of the participants, we verified that the anterior trunk inclination was significantly larger in the PD population with depressive symptoms (R2 = 0.453, β = 0.116, and p = 0.045). Conclusion PD individuals with depressive symptoms have more severe flexed trunk posture, mainly in older men. Additionally, more severe depressive symptoms are associated with worsening postural instability, trunk rigidity and motor deficits in this population.

Resumo Antecedentes A depressão é um sintoma não motor importante da doença de Parkinson (DP) e tem sido associada aos sintomas motores nesses indivíduos. Objetivos Determinar se existem relações entre sintomas depressivos e anormalidades no alinhamento postural axial e déficits motores axiais, especialmente instabilidade postural e rigidez de tronco na DP. Métodos Neste estudo transversal, 65 indivíduos foram avaliados pelo BDI-II para análise de sintomas depressivos e submetidos à avaliação postural do alinhamento sagital de cabeça, tronco e quadril por meio de fotogrametria computadorizada. A MDS-UPDRS avaliou os aspectos clínicos, TMS avaliou rigidez axial e o MiniBESTest equilíbrio. Para determinar a relação entre sintomas depressivos e alinhamento postural, realizou-se uma análise de regressão linear múltipla. Resultados Os participantes com sintomas depressivos apresentaram déficits motores mais graves, bem como maior rigidez de tronco e pior instabilidade postural (p < 0,05). Quando comparados os ângulos posturais entre homens e mulheres pelo teste t de Student, verificou-se que os homens apresentaram maiores graus de flexão da cabeça (p = 0,003) e do tronco (p = 0,017). Por meio da análise de regressão linear múltipla corrigida para a idade e sexo dos participantes, verificamos que a inclinação anterior do tronco foi significativamente maior nos indivíduos com DP com sintomas depressivos do que sem sintomas depressivos (R2 = 0,453, β = 0,116 e p = 0,045) Conclusão Indivíduos com DP com sintomas depressivos apresentam postura de tronco flexionado mais severa, principalmente em homens mais idosos. Além disso, os sintomas depressivos mais graves pioram significativamente a instabilidade postural, a rigidez do tronco e os déficits motores nessa população.

Access to rehabilitation after stroke in Brazil (AReA study): multicenter study protocol / Acesso à reabilitação após o AVC no Brasil (estudo AReA): protocolo de estudo multicêntrico

Abstract Background Most of the Brazilian population relies on public healthcare and stroke is a major cause of disability in this country of continental dimensions. There is limited information about access to rehabilitation after stroke in Brazil. Objective To provide comprehensive information about Access to Rehabilitation After discharge from public hospitals in Brazil (AReA study), up to 6 months after stroke. Methods The present study intends to collect information from 17 public health centers in 16 Brazilian cities in the 5 macroregions of the country. Each center will include 36 participants (n = 612). The inclusion criteria are: age ≥ 18 years old; ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke, from 6 months to 1 year prior to the interview; admission to a public hospital in the acute phase after stroke; any neurological impairment poststroke; patient or caregiver able to provide informed consent and answer the survey. Patients can only be recruited in public neurology or internal medicine outpatient clinics. Outcomes will be assessed by a standard questionnaire about rehabilitation referrals, the rehabilitation program (current status, duration in months, number of sessions per week) and instructions received. In addition, patients will be asked about preferences for locations of rehabilitation (hospitals, clinics, or at home). Trial Status The study is ongoing. Recruitment started on January 31st, 2020 and is planned to continue until June 2022. Conclusion The AReA study will fill a gap in knowledge about access to stroke rehabilitation in the public health system in different Brazilian regions.

Resumo Antecedentes Grande parte da população brasileira depende de saúde pública e o acidente vascular cerebral (AVC) é uma das principais causas de incapacidade neste país de dimensões continentais. As informações sobre o acesso à reabilitação após AVC em instalações públicas no Brasil são limitadas. Objetivo Fornecer informações abrangentes sobre o Acesso à Reabilitação pós-AVC (estudo AReA) nos primeiros 6 meses após a alta hospitalar da rede pública. Métodos Serão coletadas informações de 17 centros de saúde públicos em 16 cidades brasileiras das cinco macrorregiões do país. Cada centro incluirá 36 participantes (n = 612). Os critérios de inclusão são: idade ≥ 18 anos; AVC isquêmico ou hemorrágico, com tempo de lesão entre 6 meses e 1 ano; admissão em hospital público na fase aguda; qualquer comprometimento neurológico pós-AVC; paciente ou cuidador capaz de fornecer consentimento informado e responder à pesquisa. Os pacientes só podem ser recrutados em ambulatórios públicos de neurologia ou medicina interna. Os resultados serão avaliados por um questionário padrão sobre encaminhamentos de reabilitação, o programa de reabilitação (estado atual, duração em meses, número de sessões por semana) e instruções recebidas. Além disso, os pacientes serão questionados sobre as preferências de locais de reabilitação (hospitais, clínicas ou casa). Status do estudo O estudo está em andamento. O recrutamento começou em 31 de janeiro de 2020 e está previsto para continuar até junho de 2022. Conclusão O estudo AReA preencherá uma lacuna no conhecimento sobre o acesso à reabilitação para AVC no sistema público de saúde em diferentes regiões brasileiras.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with upper-limb training for improving function after stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Several neuromodulation treatments have been developed, and their effects have been studied in recent years in order to improve neurological rehabilitation after a stroke. The association between upper-limb training and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has provoked controversies and produced inconclusive results. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of rTMS combined with upper-limb training versus sham rTMS combined with upper-limb training on the upper-limb recovery after a stroke. METHODS: A systematic review with meta-analysis was performed. The eligible studies were randomized controlled trials with stroke subjects, and the outcomes were related to upper-limb motor/functional status and spasticity. RESULTS: A total of 3234 citations were identified, and 11 studies were included. The meta-analysis included eight studies with 199 participants and did not show any difference between groups, neither for upper-limb function nor for spasticity (upper-limb function [0.03 (95% CI: -0.25 to 0.32; I(2) 0%)] and Modified Ashworth Scale [-0.31 (95% CI: -0.78 to 0.17; I(2) 43%)]). CONCLUSION: The current state of the literature is not enough to support the hypothesis that a combination of rTMS and upper-limb training has a stronger effect on upper-limb function than upper-limb training alone.

Strength training associated with task-oriented training to enhance upper-limb motor function in elderly patients with mild impairment after stroke: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to verify the effects of loaded exercises associated with a task-oriented training (TOT) program in the recovery of upper-limb function in individuals with chronic hemiparesis after stroke. DESIGN: This study used a single-blinded, randomized controlled trial. Patients were included into two TOT groups: one that performed the task-oriented therapy without load (TOT group, n = 10) and another one that performed task-oriented therapy with personalized resistance (TOT_ST group, n = 10) for 6 wks, for a total of 12 sessions. Main measures included The Upper Extremity Performance Test, shoulder flexor and handgrip strength, shoulder active range of motion, motor impairment (Fugl-Meyer Scale), and muscle tone. RESULTS: The TOT_ST group demonstrated better scores relating to unilateral tasks and in the quality aspects of bilateral movements (The Upper Extremity Performance Test, P = 0.04) at the end of rehabilitation protocol. The highest muscle force gain was reached by the TOT_ST group for the shoulder flexors (P = 0.001). Similarly, the active range of motion (P = 0.01) and Fugl-Meyer scores (P = 0.001) were higher in the TOT_ST group compared with the TOT group. Both groups showed improvement after training. CONCLUSIONS: Strength training was able to intensify the upper-limb rehabilitation, as demonstrated by the superior scores achieved by the TOT_ST group in most of the evaluated parameters. Muscle strength training might be a pivotal element of the task-oriented rehabilitation program of chronic patients with mild impairment after stroke.

Facilitation handlings induce increase in electromyographic activity of muscles involved in head control of cerebral palsy children.

This study aimed to investigate the electromyographic (EMG) activation of the main cervical muscles involved in the head control during two postures widely used for the facilitation of head control in children with Cerebral Palsy (CP). A crossover trial involving 31 children with clinical diagnosis of CP and spastic quadriplegia was conducted. Electromyography was used to measure muscular activity in randomized postures. Three positions were at rest: (a) lateral decubitus, (b) ventral decubitus on the floor and (c) ventral decubitus on the wedge. Handlings for facilitating the head control were performed using the hip joint as key point of control in two postures: (a) lateral decubitus and (b) ventral decubitus on wedge. All children underwent standardized handlings, performed by the same researcher with experience in the neurodevelopmental treatment. EMG signal was recorded from muscles involved in the head control (paraspinal and sternocleidomastoid muscles) in sagittal, frontal and transverse planes, at the fourth cervical vertebra (C4), tenth thoracic vertebra (T10) and sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM) levels. The results showed a significant increase in muscle activation when handling was performed in the lateral decubitus at C4 (P<0.001), T10 (P<0.001) and SCM (P=0.02) levels. A significant higher muscle activation was observed when handling was performed in lateral decubitus when compared to ventral decubitus at C4 level (P<0.001). Handling in ventral decubitus also induced an increase in EMG activation at T10 (P=0.018) and SCM (P=0.004) levels but not at C4 level (P=0.38). In conclusion, handlings performed in both positions may induce the facilitation of head control, as evaluated by the activity of cervical and upper trunk muscles. Handling performed in lateral decubitus may induce a slightly better facilitation of head control. These findings contribute to evidence-based physiotherapy practice for the rehabilitation of severely spastic quadriplegic CP children.

Aspectos biomecânicos da locomoção de pessoas com doença de Parkinson: revisão narrativa / Biomechanical aspects of locomotion people with Parkinson's disease: review study / Aspectos biomecánicos de la locomoción de personas con enfermedad de Parkinson: una revisión

Resumo A presente revisão narrativa tem por objetivo analisar os aspectos biomecânicos da locomoção e os efeitos de intervenções nos padrões da marcha de pessoas com doença de Parkinson (DP). Fez-se uma pesquisa bibliográfica no banco de dados dos sistemas SciELO e PubMed, com as seguintes palavras: human locomotion, biomechanics, pathologic gait e Parkinson's disease, em periódicos nacionais e internacionais. Concluímos que as principais alterações biomecânicas são nos parâmetros espaçotemporais, como menor comprimento de passada e estabilidade dinâmica, além da baixa ativação muscular nos músculos propulsores, bem como menor velocidade autosselecionada da marcha. Fazem-se necessários protocolos de treinamento de caminhada que considerem esses parâmetros para auxiliar a reabilitação da marcha de pessoas com DP.

Abstract The purpose of this review was to analyze the biomechanical aspects of walking in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD), as well as to examine the effects of intervention on gait pattern of PD. We carried out a bibliographic search on electronic databases SciELO and PubMed, using the following words: human locomotion, biomechanics, pathologic gait e Parkinson's disease, in national and international scientific journals. The main alterations on walking biomechanics are related to spatiotemporal parameters, lower stride length and dynamical stability, as well as reduced electromyographic activation on propulsion muscles and lower self-selected speed. These outcomes seem to be important targets in walking training protocols for rehabilitation of gait in PD.

Resumen La presente revisión tiene por objetivo analizar los aspectos biomecánicos de la locomoción y los efectos de las intervenciones en los patrones de la marcha en personas con enfermedad de Parkinson (EP). Se realizó una investigación bibliográfica en las bases de datos SciELO y PubMed, utilizando las siguientes palabras:human locomotion, biomechanics, pathologic gait y Parkinson's disease, en revistas nacionales e internacionales indexadas. Se llegó a la conclusión de que las principales alteraciones biomecánicas se encuentran en los parámetros espacio-temporales, como menor longitud de la zancada y estabilidad dinámica, además de una baja activación electromiográfica de los músculos propulsores, como menor velocidad autoseleccionada de la marcha. Estos resultados convierten en necesarios protocolos de entrenamiento de la marcha que tengan en cuenta estos parámetros para la rehabilitación de personas con EP.

Terapia Assistida por Animais como recurso fisioterapêutico para idosos institucionalizados / Animal-assisted Therapy as a physical therapy resource for institutionalized elderly

OBJETIVOS: Avaliar os efeitos da Terapia Assistida por Animais em relação à marcha e ao equilíbrio em idosos institucionalizados. MÉTODOS: Este estudo caracteriza-se como um ensaio clínico não controlado, do tipo antes e depois. O estudo foi realizado na instituição Lar da Velhice São Francisco de Assis, localizado na cidade de Caxias do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul. Foram selecionados idosos voluntários, de ambos os sexos, sendo excluídos os que apresentassem alguma alteração osteomuscular, neurológica ou cognitiva que pudesse interferir nos resultados. Foram utilizados três cães, devidamente treinados por um profissional de adestramento e atendendo a critérios específicos para Terapia Assistida por Animais. O grupo realizou 10 sessões da terapia em quatro semanas. Para análise da marcha e equilíbrio dos idosos foram utilizados os seguintes testes: Escala de Equilíbrio de Berg, teste de Equilíbrio de Tinetti, teste de Alcance Funcional e teste de Caminhada de Seis Metros. Os testes foram aplicados antes e depois das sessões de Terapia Assistida por Animais. RESULTADOS: Foram incluídos no estudo nove idosos, com idades entre 68 e 79 anos. Em relação ao equilíbrio e controle postural os indivíduos apresentaram uma melhora significativa nos valores pós-tratamento quando comparados aos do pré-tratamento, pela Escala de Berg (z=2,26 p=0,02) e pelo teste de Alcance Funcional (z=2,2 p=0,02). Na avaliação dos aspectos da marcha, no teste de Tinetti a média do escore pré-terapia foi de 7,9±2,8 e pós-terapia 9,2±1,6 (z=2,02 p=0,04). O teste de Caminhada revelou uma significativa diminuição no tempo gasto para completar o percurso de seis metros após a terapia. A média do tempo antes da terapia foi de 20,2±19 segundos e após a terapia foi de 9,2±7 segundos (z=2,47 p=0,01) (z=2,47 p=0,01). CONCLUSÕES: Encontrou-se uma melhora significativa em ambos os parâmetros avaliados, sugerindo resultados relevantes após aplicação da Terapia Assistida por Animais em relação à marcha e ao equilíbrio de idosos institucionalizados.

AIMS: To evaluate the effects of Animal-assisted Therapy on the gait and balance of institutionalized elderly. METHODS: This is a non-controlled before-after clinical trial. The study was conducted at "Lar da Velhice São Francisco de Assis,", a nursing home located in Caxias do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Elderly volunteers of both sexes were selected, and those with any musculoskeletal, neurological, or cognitive conditions that could interfere with the results were excluded. Three dogs that were properly trained by a professional trainer and met the specific criteria for animal-assisted therapy were used. The group performed 10 therapy sessions in four weeks. The following tests were used for assessing the gait and balance of the elderly participants: Berg Balance scale, Tinetti Balance test, Functional Reach test, and Six-Meter-Walk test. The tests were applied before and after animal-assisted therapy. RESULTS: The study included nine subjects, aged 68 to 79 years. Regarding balance and postural control, individuals showed a significant improvement in post-treatment outcome when compared to pre-treatment, according to the Berg Balance scale (z=2.26 p=0.02) and Functional Reach test (z=2.2 p=0.02). In the gait assessment, the Tinetti test score averaged 7.9±2.8 before therapy and 9.2±1.6 after therapy (z=2.02 p=0.04). The Six-Meter-Walk test after therapy revealed a significant decrease in the time necessary to complete the six-meter course. The average time was 20.2±19 seconds prior to therapy and 9.2±7 seconds after therapy (z=2.47 p=0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Both assessed parameters showed significant improvement, suggesting important outcomes regarding gait and balance after the use of Animal-assisted Therapy in institutionalized elderly individuals.

Atividade eletromiográfica dos extensores de tronco durante manuseio pelo Método Neuroevolutivo Bobath / Electromyographic activity of trunk muscles during therapy using the Concept Bobath

INTRODUÇÃO: Paralisia cerebral é um distúrbio caracterizado por alterações no desenvolvimento da atividade, do movimento e da postura. O Conceito Neuroevolutivo Bobath é um método utilizado na reabilitação neuropediátrica, fundamentando-se na facilitação da aquisição de habilidades sensório-motoras de acordo com a sequência de desenvolvimento neuropsicomotor normal. OBJETIVO: Verificar atividade eletromiográfica de músculos envolvidos no controle cervical nos planos frontal, sagital e transverso, mediante manuseio em pontos-chave de controle, objetivando transferência de peso e estabilização corporal. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Trata-se de uma avaliação quantitativa em um estudo de caso, no qual uma paciente de sete anos de idade, com diagnóstico clínico de paralisia cerebral e síndrome de West, foi submetida à análise eletromiográfica da musculatura envolvida no controle cervical, mediante manuseio em pontos-chave de controle. O registo ocorreu durante o manuseio utilizando postura de decúbito ventral sobre cunha e postura de decúbito lateral sobre o solo. RESULTADOS: O sinal eletromiográfico dos extensores e flexores na região cervical intensificou-se mediante manuseio para transferência de peso em ponto-chave de quadril em ambas as posturas. Embora o sinal de base tenha sido ampliado durante a transferência de peso para o quadril, o registro eletromiográfico nos segmentos musculares avaliados foi superior no decúbito lateral. CONCLUSÕES: Verificou-se que a transferência de peso para o quadril induziu facilitação do controle cervical e que o decúbito lateral de forma repetida e sustentada, mediante correto manuseio, alinhamento e transferência de peso, facilitou de forma mais pronunciada a atividade muscular na região cervical e de tronco superior do que o manuseio em decúbito ventral sobre a cunha.

INTRODUCTION: Cerebral palsy is a disorder characterized by an abnormal activity, movement and posture development. The Bobath concept is one of the most used methods for the neuropediatric rehabilitation and is based on the acquisition of sensorimotor skills according to the normal sequence of the psychomotor development. OBJECTIVE: In this study, we explore the relationship between electromyographic signal (EMG) in muscles involved in the cervical control in the frontal, sagittal and transversal planes and facilitation techniques using key points of control, which is part of the Bobath approach. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The methodology was quantitative applied in a case study of one child, seven years old, with Cerebral palsy and West syndrome diagnosis. The surface EMG activity of muscle groups involved in the cervical control (extensors, flexors and lateral flexors) was collected under therapeutic handling using key points of control in ventral decubitus on the wedge and in lateral decubitus along 5 seconds. RESULTS: The EMG signal from extensors and flexors muscles was augmented under therapeutic handling for weight bearing using the hip joint as key point of control in both decubitus. Although the EMG basal signal in the ventral position had been intensified during the weight bearing, the EMG activity was higher when the handling was performed using the lateral position. CONCLUSION: We concluded that the therapeutic handling for weigh bearing using the hip joint as key point of control induced the facilitation of cervical control. The use of the lateral position as well as the repetition of this position in a maintained way, since the correct alignment position is observed, should be able to induce higher facilitation of cervical control than weigh bearing in ventral position on the wedge.

An ultrastructural study of cell death in the CA1 pyramidal field of the hippocapmus in rats submitted to transient global ischemia followed by reperfusion.

In the course of ischemia and reperfusion a disruption of release and uptake of excitatory neurotransmitters occurs. This excitotoxicity triggers delayed cell death, a process closely related to mitochondrial physiology and one that shows both apoptotic and necrotic features. The aim of the present study was to use electron microscopy to characterize the cell death of pyramidal cells from the CA1 field of the hippocampus after 10 min of transient global ischemia followed by short reperfusion periods. For this study 25 adult male Wistar rats were used, divided into six groups: 10 min of ischemia, 3, 6, 12 and 24 h of reperfusion and an untouched group. Transient forebrain ischemia was produced using the 4-vessel occlusion method. The pyramidal cells of the CA1 field from rat hippocampus submitted to ischemia exhibited intracellular alterations consistent with a process of degeneration, with varied intensities according to the reperfusion period and bearing both apoptotic and necrotic features. Gradual neuronal and glial modifications allowed for the classification of the degenerative process into three stages: initial, intermediate and final were found. With 3 and 6 h of reperfusion, slight and moderate morphological alterations were seen, such as organelle and cytoplasm edema. Within 12 h of reperfusion, there was an apparent recovery and more 'intact' cells could be identified, while 24 h after the event neuronal damage was more severe and cells with disrupted membranes and cell debris were identified. Necrotic-like neurons were found together with some apoptotic bodies with 24 h of reperfusion. Present results support the view that cell death in the CA1 field of rat hippocampus submitted to 10 min of global transient ischemia and early reperfusion times includes both apoptotic and necrotic features, a process referred to as parapoptosis.

Caracterização da curvatura lombar em escolares na fase do desenvolvimento estrutural / Study of lumbar curvature in the structural development phase

Este estudo surgiu da necessidade em encontrar um método quantitativo de avaliação postural infantil. Objetivou-se quantificar a curvatura lombar de estudantes, correlacionando-o com o posicionamento da pelve e encurtamentos musculares. Foram selecionados 90 escolares (6 a 8 anos e 11 a 13 anos) de escolas municipais de Cascavel-PR. Para a avaliação da curvatura lombar foi utilizado o Método Flint associado à captação e análise de imagens digitais por meio da Biofotogrametria e do software CorelDrw 11. A média do ângulo lombar foi de 27,02 graus, enquanto a média da distãncia entre as espinhas isquiotibiais foi de 69,51 graus, para flexores uniarticulares do quadril foi de 4,02 graus e para flexores biarticulares do quadril foi de 115,74 graus. Quanto à correlação entr as variáveis, a idade apresentou correlação positiva em relação ao grau de hiperlordose e correlação negativa em relação ao comprimento de isquitibiais e flexores uniarticulares do quadril. Na população estudada, o ângulo lombar aumentou com a idade, refletindo a instalação de uma possível retificaçãoo lombar em lugar da hiperlordose. Com relação aos encurtamentos, crianças com mais idade apresentaram maior grau de hiperlordose, posicionamento da pelve e encurtamentos musculares não foi verificada por meio dos métodos utilizados neste estudo.