The Role of Secondary Conservative Management Strategies in Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: We sought to determine the effect of secondary management strategies in addition to urotherapy on bowel bladder dysfunction outcomes. STUDY DESIGN: The review protocol was prospectively registered (CRD42023422168). MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, CINAHL, and Scopus (database initiation until June 2023) were searched. Comparative studies of secondary management strategies vs conventional urotherapy alone were included. Two authors independently screened titles, abstracts, and reviewed full-text articles. Two authors extracted data related to study characteristics, methodology, subjects, and results. RESULTS: In this systematic review and meta-analysis of 18 studies and 1228 children, secondary management strategies (home-based education, biofeedback, and physical therapy) were associated with reduced symptom burden, fewer recurrent urinary tract infections, and improved uroflowmetry findings than children treated solely with urotherapy for conservative management. CONCLUSIONS: Although there is significant reporting heterogeneity, secondary conservative management strategies such as home education, biofeedback or cognitive behavioral therapy, and physiotherapy-based education are associated with less urinary incontinence, fewer infections, and fewer abnormal uroflowmetry findings.

Impact of Loneliness on Training Gains with Heart Rate Variability Biofeedback in the Elderly: A Pilot Study.

The negative impact of loneliness on the health of the elderly is particularly noticeable because of the effects of central control on the autonomic nervous system. Such an impact can be assessed through heart rate variability (HRV) analysis and can be modified using HRV biofeedback training. This study aimed to investigate the impact of different levels of social interaction reported by the elderly on HRV before and after training with HRV biofeedback and after a follow-up period. The participants of this pilot study comprised 16 elderly people of both sexes with a mean age of 71.20 ± 4.92 years. The participants were divided into two groups, the loneliness group (N = 8) and the no-loneliness group (N = 8), based on a combination of both criteria: the institutionalization condition (institutionalized or not) and the score on the loneliness scale (high or low). All participants had their HRV components recorded at baseline, after 14 training sessions with HRV biofeedback (three times a week, 15 min each for 4.5 weeks), and after 4.5 weeks of follow-up without training. After HRV biofeedback training, HRV components increased in both groups. However, the gains lasted at follow-up only in the no-loneliness group. In conclusion, loneliness can influence the maintenance of HRV after interruption of training with HRV biofeedback in the elderly. HRV biofeedback training can be an innovative and effective tool for complementary treatment of elderly individuals, but its effects on lonely elderly individuals need to be further investigated.

Use of electromyographic biofeedback in rehabilitation following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Rehabilitation following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery is essential to regain functionality and return to previous activity level. Electromyographic biofeedback may be an effective intervention for rehabilitation of patients following ACL surgery. OBJECTIVE: To synthesize the available evidence on the effect of electromyographic biofeedback in the treatment of quadriceps strength following ACL surgery. DESIGN: Systematic review with meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES: PubMed, EMBASE, CENTRAL and Epistemonikos were searched. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: Randomized clinical trials with patients undergoing ACL reconstruction surgery comparing biofeedback with a standard rehabilitation control group. DATA EXTRACTION AND DATA SYNTHESIS: Two authors selected articles and performed data extraction. The analysed outcomes were strength, function, pain, knee extension and balance. The risk of bias of individual studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Results were combined through random-effects meta-analysis, reporting mean differences. RESULTS: Eight articles were included in the qualitative analysis, and four articles were included in the quantitative analysis. The interventions lasted between 4 and 12 weeks. Three studies evaluated the effect of biofeedback on quadriceps strength; of these, two studies showed a significant difference in favour of the biofeedback group. In addition, biofeedback was found to improve knee extension [standardized mean difference - 1.3, 95% confidence interval (CI) - 1.74 to -0.86] and balance (one study). There was no significant difference in Lysholm score (mean difference -6.21, 95% CI -17.51 to 5.08; I2 =59%) or pain between the biofeedback group and the control group. CONCLUSION: Electromyographic biofeedback in knee rehabilitation could be useful following ACL reconstruction surgery. KEY MESSAGES: SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER: PROSPERO (CRD42020193768).

Clinical effect and prognostic factor of electric stimulation and biofeedback therapy on postpartum pelvic organ prolapse / Efeito clínico e fator prognóstico da estimulação elétrica e terapia de biofeedback no prolapso de órgãos pélvicos pós-parto / Efecto clínico y factor pronóstico de la estimulación eléctrica y la terapia de biorretroalimentación en el prolapso posparto de órganos pélvicos

ABSTRACT Objective: To explore the effects of electric stimulation and biofeedback therapy in patients with postpartum pelvic organ prolapse and to identify factors that can affect therapeutic efficacy outcomes. Method: This retrospective study analysed clinical data about patients with postpartum pelvic organ prolapse. A total of 328 women with pelvic organ prolapse at 6 weeks postpartum were recruited from one tertiary hospitals in Sichuan province in China, between March 2019 and March 2022. The prognostic factors of therapeutic efficacy were analysed using logistic regression and decision tree model. Results: Overall, 259 women showed clinical benefits from the treatment. The logistic regression model showed that parity, pelvic floor muscle training at home, and the pelvic organ prolapse quantitation stage before treatment were independent prognostic factors. The decision tree model showed that the pelvic organ prolapse quantitation stage before treatment was the main prognostic factor, followed by parity. There was no significant difference in the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve between the two models. Conclusion: Parity, pelvic floor muscle training at home, and the pelvic organ prolapse quantitation stage before treatment were important prognostic factors of electric stimulation and biofeedback therapy on postpartum pelvic organ prolapse.

RESUMO Objetivo: Explorar o efeito da estimulação elétrica e da terapia de biofeedback em pacientes com prolapso de órgãos pélvicos pós-parto e identificar fatores que podem afetar os resultados da eficácia terapêutica. Método: Este estudo é uma análise retrospectiva de dados clínicos de pacientes com prolapso de órgãos pélvicos pós-parto. Um total de 328 mulheres com prolapso de órgãos pélvicos nas seis semanas pós-parto foram recrutadas em um hospital terciário na província de Sichuan, na China, entre março de 2019 e março de 2022. Os fatores prognósticos de eficácia terapêutica foram analisados por meio de regressão logística e modelo de árvore de decisão. Resultados: No geral, 259 mulheres apresentaram benefícios clínicos com o tratamento. O modelo de regressão logística mostrou que a paridade, o treinamento muscular do assoalho pélvico em casa e o estágio de quantificação do prolapso de órgãos pélvicos antes do tratamento foram fatores prognósticos independentes. O modelo de árvore de decisão mostrou que o estágio de quantificação do prolapso de órgãos pélvicos antes do tratamento foi o principal fator prognóstico, seguido pela paridade. Não houve diferença significativa na área sob a curva ROC entre os dois modelos. Conclusão: A paridade, o treinamento muscular do assoalho pélvico em casa e o estágio de quantificação do prolapso de órgãos pélvicos antes do tratamento foram importantes fatores prognósticos da estimulação elétrica e da terapia de biofeedback no prolapso de órgãos pélvicos pós-parto.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Explorar el efecto de la estimulación eléctrica y la terapia de biorretroalimentación en pacientes con prolapso posparto de órganos pélvicos e identificar los factores que pueden afectar los resultados de la eficacia terapéutica. Método: Este estudio es un análisis retrospectivo de los datos clínicos de pacientes con prolapso posparto de órganos pélvicos. Entre marzo de 2019 y marzo de 2022, se reclutaron un total de 328 mujeres con prolapso de órganos pélvicos en las seis semanas posteriores al parto en un hospital terciario de la provincia de Sichuan, China. Los factores pronósticos de eficacia terapéutica se analizaron mediante regresión logística y el modelo de árbol de decisión. Resultados: En total, 259 mujeres mostraron beneficios clínicos relacionados con el tratamiento. El modelo de regresión logística mostró que la paridad, el entrenamiento en casa de la musculatura del suelo pélvico y la etapa de cuantificación del prolapso de órganos pélvicos antes del tratamiento fueron factores pronósticos independientes. El modelo de árbol de decisión mostró que la etapa de cuantificación del prolapso de órganos pélvicos previa al tratamiento fue el principal factor pronóstico, seguido de la paridad. No hubo diferencias significativas en el área bajo la curva ROC entre los dos modelos. Conclusión: La paridad, el entrenamiento en casa de la musculatura del suelo pélvico y la etapa de cuantificación del prolapso de órganos pélvicos previa al tratamiento fueron factores pronósticos importantes de la estimulación eléctrica y la terapia de biorretroalimentación en el prolapso posparto de órganos pélvicos.

The Mexican consensus on fecal incontinence.

Fecal incontinence is the involuntary passage or the incapacity to control the release of fecal matter through the anus. It is a condition that significantly impairs quality of life in those that suffer from it, given that it affects body image, self-esteem, and interferes with everyday activities, in turn, favoring social isolation. There are no guidelines or consensus in Mexico on the topic, and so the Asociación Mexicana de Gastroenterología brought together a multidisciplinary group (gastroenterologists, neurogastroenterologists, and surgeons) to carry out the «Mexican consensus on fecal incontinence¼ and establish useful recommendations for the medical community. The present document presents the formulated recommendations in 35 statements. Fecal incontinence is known to be a frequent entity whose incidence increases as individuals age, but one that is under-recognized. The pathophysiology of incontinence is complex and multifactorial, and in most cases, there is more than one associated risk factor. Even though there is no diagnostic gold standard, the combination of tests that evaluate structure (endoanal ultrasound) and function (anorectal manometry) should be recommended in all cases. Treatment should also be multidisciplinary and general measures and drugs (lidamidine, loperamide) are recommended, as well as non-pharmacologic interventions, such as biofeedback therapy, in selected cases. Likewise, surgical treatment should be offered to selected patients and performed by experts.

A multisensory mindfulness experience: exploring the promotion of sensory awareness as a mindfulness practice.

Objectives: In this preliminary and multidisciplinary exploratory study, we assessed whether a mindfulness practice could be enhanced through a multisensory experience design that mimics the "beginner's mind," relying on sensory awareness and biofeedback processes as participants interact with the experience. Methods: We piloted and designed two conditions, being (a) a guided mindfulness practice based on the senses as an anchor to the present moment, using audio instruction only; and (b) an experience of mindfulness practice with successive sensory stimulation (olfactory, audio, and visual stimulation) followed by an interactive experience with biofeedback that provides a visual representation of the person's heartbeat in real-time. For each of the conditions we assessed anxiety (state and trait), as well as other psychological variables pre- and post-experience. Additionally, we measured the heart rate variability (HRV) at baseline, during each stage of the experience as well as post intervention. Results: We collected valid data for a total of 68 individuals. Both groups were similar regarding mean age, sex, and occupation and had similar prior experience with mindfulness. There were no significant differences regarding prior state or trait anxiety between the groups. Analysis of the physiological variables showed that for both groups there was an increase in the parasympathetic activity after the multisensory experience, with small differences in the conditions of stimulation. We did not observe significant differences between the pre and post measures for state of test anxiety. The observed parasympathetic activity variations after both experiences compared with pre and post-surveys demonstrate the importance of physiological vs psychological inspection beyond the common human rational experience that is not always resonate with the body's response and impacts the needed literacy to self-awareness of emotional well-being. Conclusion: Participants in both conditions could effectively connect with the experience, while achieving a physiological response different from their baseline state. The acceptance of the designed stimuli was very high, although more research is still needed to uncover its full potential. In sum, the design of multisensory experiences using technology to create an interactive connection with the sensory stimulus, is a promising field in mindfulness and especially in practices involving sensory awareness through the monitoring of parasympathetic activity as an inference indicator of the present-moment connection.

Effectiveness of Paced Breathing Guided by Biofeedback on Clinical and Functional Outcomes Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: An Uncontrolled Pilot Study.

To investigate the effectiveness of paced breathing guided by biofeedback on clinical and functional outcomes of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). An uncontrolled pilot study comprising a training with paced breathing guided by biofeedback (three sessions of 35 min per week) was conducted over four weeks (12 sessions). Assessments included respiratory muscle strength (using a manovacuometer), anxiety (Beck Anxiety Inventory), depression (Beck Depression Inventory), dyspnea (Baseline Dyspnea Index), functionality (Timed Up and Go Test), health status (COPD Assessment Test) and health-related quality of life (Saint George's Respiratory Questionnaire). The sample consisted of nine patients with a mean age of 68.2 ± 7.8 years. After intervention, patients significantly improved in health status and health-related quality of life, assessed using the COPD Assessment Test (p < 0.001) and Saint George's Respiratory Questionnaire (p < 0.001); anxiety (p < 0.001); and depression (p = 0.001). Patients also significantly improved in dyspnea (p = 0.008), TUG (p = 0.015), CC Score (p = 0.031), and maximum inspiratory (p = 0.004) and expiratory pressures (p < 0.001). An intervention with paced breathing guided by biofeedback promoted positive results on dyspnea, anxiety, depression, health status and perceived health-related quality of life in patients with COPD. Moreover, gains in respiratory muscle strength and functional performance were observed, affecting the performance of daily activities.

Eficácia da reabilitação perineal combinada com biofeedback e diatermia por radiofrequência (RDF) em síndromes de dor funcional anorretal associadas à contração paradoxal dos músculos elevadores do ânus. Um estudo prospectivo / Effectiveness of perineal pelvis rehabilitation combined with biofeedback and radiofrequency diathermy (rdf) in anorectal functional pain syndromes associated with paradoxical contraction of the levator ani muscles. a prospective study

ABSTRACT Background: Anorectal functional pain syndrome, also called chronic proctalgia, represents a neglected clinical entity and often confused with other syndromes such as vulvodynia or acute proctalgia. It is a very often disabling disease with a consequent significant negative impact on the patient's quality of life. Chronic proctalgia, in many patients, is secondary to the paradoxical contraction of the pelvic floor and associated with a dissynergy between the thorax-abdomen and the pelvic floor. To improve symptoms in functional anorectal pain syndromes, various rehabilitation techniques are used with the aim of promoting relaxation of the pelvic floor; however, to improve defecatory dynamics in patients with levator ani syndrome, only biofeedback has shown efficacy in a randomized study. The aim of this work is to evaluate whether a rehabilitation protocol with manometric biofeedback and radiofrequency diathermy (mt100 Fremslife emotion Tecar) reduces pain and paradoxical contraction of the levator ani and improves the quality of life in patients with anorectal pain syndromes. functional. Methods: This was a prospective study on 30 patients (20 women and 10 men) with anorectal functional pain syndrome and paradoxical contraction of the pelvic floor enrolled at the UOC of General, Minimally Invasive, Oncological and Obesity Surgery of the AOU "Luigi Vanvitelli" of Naples, Italy, from September 2021 to May 2022. All patients were evaluated with a coloproctological specialist visit followed by anorectal manometry and evaluation of altered clinical physiatric parameters (Brusciano Score). The protocol consisted of 10 rehabilitation sessions of the pelvic floor once a week and lasting approximately 45 minutes. During the sessions the patients were subjected to diathermy / radiofrequency treatment (10 minutes) with a static resistive electrode on the diaphragm, during which they were required to breathe diaphragmatically and to become aware of the perineal muscles, under the supervision of a physiotherapist; followed by application of diathermy with static capacitive (5 minutes) and resistive (10 minutes) electrode at the lumbar level. This was followed by the use of manometric biofeedback (15 minutes of tonic / phasic exercises) in order to instruct the patient on the reflex mechanism to obtain a voluntary relaxation of the external anal sphincter. The variables evaluated were Pain (VAS 0-10) and the questionnaire on the impact of colorectal and anal pathologies on the quality of life (CRAIQ-7) at the beginning, after 3 months and at the end of the treatment. Results: After 10 weeks, the rehabilitation treatment combined with diathermy and manometric biofeedback proved effective in the short term with a reduction in the scores of the Vas scale and CRAIQ-7 questionnaire and an increase in the percentage of release of the anal muscles on anorectal manometry. Conclusion: The use of radiofrequency diathermy with a system of static electrodes associated with biofeedback represents a valid rehabilitation option for those patients suffering from anorectal functional pain syndrome because it reduces pain and paradoxical contraction of the levator ani and improves quality of life of the patient.

RESUMO Contexto: A síndrome de dor funcional anorretal, também conhecida como proctalgia crônica, representa uma entidade clínica negligenciada e frequentemente confundida com outras síndromes, como vulvodinia ou proctalgia aguda. Trata-se de uma doença frequentemente incapacitante, com um consequente impacto negativo significativo na qualidade de vida do paciente. A proctalgia crônica, em muitos pacientes, é secundária à contração paradoxal do assoalho pélvico e está associada a uma dissinergia entre o tórax-abdômen e o assoalho pélvico. Para melhorar os sintomas em síndromes de dor anorretal funcional, são utilizadas diversas técnicas de reabilitação com o objetivo de promover o relaxamento do assoalho pélvico. No entanto, para melhorar a dinâmica de evacuação em pacientes com síndrome do elevador do ânus, apenas o biofeedback demonstrou eficácia em um estudo randomizado. Objetivo: O objetivo deste trabalho é avaliar se um protocolo de reabilitação com biofeedback manométrico e diatermia por radiofrequência (mt100 Fremslife emotion Tecar) reduz a dor e a contração paradoxal do elevador do ânus e melhora a qualidade de vida em pacientes com síndromes de dor anorretal funcional. Métodos: Realizado estudo prospectivo com 30 pacientes (20 mulheres e 10 homens) com síndrome de dor anorretal funcional e contração paradoxal do assoalho pélvico inscritos na UOC de Cirurgia Geral, Minimamente Invasiva, Oncológica e de Obesidade da AOU "Luigi Vanvitelli" de Nápoles, Itália, de setembro de 2021 a maio de 2022. Todos os pacientes foram avaliados com uma consulta especializada em coloproctologia, seguida de manometria anorretal e avaliação dos parâmetros fisiátricos clínicos alterados (Escore de Brusciano). O protocolo consistiu em 10 sessões de reabilitação do assoalho pélvico, uma vez por semana, com duração aproximada de 45 minutos. Durante as sessões, os pacientes foram submetidos a tratamento de diatermia / radiofrequência (10 minutos) com um eletrodo resistivo estático no diafragma, durante o qual foram solicitados a respirar através do diafragma e a tomar consciência dos músculos perineais, sob a supervisão de um fisioterapeuta; seguido pela aplicação de diatermia com eletrodo capacitivo estático (5 minutos) e resistivo (10 minutos) no nível lombar. Isso foi seguido pelo uso de biofeedback manométrico (15 minutos de exercícios tônicos /fásicos) com o objetivo de instruir o paciente sobre o mecanismo reflexo para obter um relaxamento voluntário do esfíncter anal externo. As variáveis avaliadas foram Dor (EVA 0-10) e o questionário sobre o impacto das patologias colorretais e anais na qualidade de vida (CRAIQ-7) no início, após 3 meses e no final do tratamento. Resultados: Após 10 semanas, o tratamento de reabilitação combinado com diatermia e biofeedback manométrico mostrou-se eficaz a curto prazo, com uma redução nos escores da escala VAS e do questionário CRAIQ-7, e um aumento na porcentagem de relaxamento dos músculos anais na manometria anorretal. Conclusão: O uso de diatermia por radiofrequência com um sistema de eletrodos estáticos associado ao biofeedback representa uma opção de reabilitação válida para pacientes que sofrem com a síndrome de dor anorretal funcional, pois reduz a dor e a contração paradoxal do elevador do ânus, melhorando a qualidade de vida do paciente.

Effects of neurofeedback on the self-concept of children with learning disorders.

Children with learning disorders (LDs) often have a lower self-concept than their typically developing peers. Neurofeedback (NFB) treatments seem to improve the cognitive and academic performance of these children, but the effects on self-concept have not been studied. In this exploratory study, 34 right-handed children (8-11 y.o.) with LD and delayed electroencephalographic maturation responded to the Piers-Harris Children's Self-Concept Scale. One group received NFB (n = 20), and another group (n = 14) served as control, which included 9 children treated with sham-NFB and 5 on a waiting-list. A nonparametric permutation approach was used to compare the academic performance and self-concept difference (postscores - prescores) between the NFB and control groups. Given the smaller size of the control subgroups, a comparison of the percent changes between sham-NFB and the waiting-list was performed with the non-overlap of all pairs (NAP) technique. In the NFB group, the scores of reading, math, and global self-concept increased significantly, highlighting the self-concept subdomains of physical appearance, nonanxiety, popularity, and happiness. Additionally, the sham-NFB subgroup showed better outcomes than the waiting-list subgroup, perhaps due to noncontrolled factors. We found improved academic performance and self-concept in children with LDs who received NFB treatment. This study is an important exploratory step in studying a relevant treatment that seems to ameliorate symptoms of LDs such as anxiety and low self-concept.

Measuring the Effectiveness of a Multicomponent Program to Manage Academic Stress through a Resilience to Stress Index.

In this work, we evaluate the effectiveness of a multicomponent program that includes psychoeducation in academic stress, mindfulness training, and biofeedback-assisted mindfulness, while enhancing the Resilience to Stress Index (RSI) of students through the control of autonomic recovery from psychological stress. Participants are university students enrolled in a program of excellence and are granted an academic scholarship. The dataset consists of an intentional sample of 38 undergraduate students with high academic performance, 71% (27) women, 29% (11) men, and 0% (0) non-binary, with an average age of 20 years. The group belongs to the "Leaders of Tomorrow" scholarship program from Tecnológico de Monterrey University, in Mexico. The program is structured in 16 individual sessions during an eight-week period, divided into three phases: pre-test evaluation, training program, and post-test evaluation. During the evaluation test, an assessment of the psychophysiological stress profile is performed while the participants undergo a stress test; it includes simultaneous recording of skin conductance, breathing rate, blood volume pulse, heart rate, and heart rate variability. Based on the pre-test and post-test psychophysiological variables, an RSI is computed under the assumption that changes in physiological signals due to stress can be compared against a calibration stage. The results show that approximately 66% of the participants improved their academic stress management after the multicomponent intervention program. A Welch's t-test showed a difference in mean RSI scores (t = -2.30, p = 0.025) between the pre-test and post-test phases. Our findings show that the multicomponent program promoted positive changes in the RSI and in the management of the psychophysiological responses to academic stress.

Effectiveness of Biofeedback in Individuals with Awake Bruxism Compared to Other Types of Treatment: A Systematic Review.

Excessive masticatory muscle activity is generally present in awake bruxism, which is related to increased anxiety and stress. It has been hypothesized that biofeedback could potentially manage awake bruxism, however, its effectiveness has not been empirically analyzed in a systematic manner. Therefore, this systematic review was designed to determine the effectiveness of biofeedback compared to other therapies in adults with awake bruxism. Extensive searches in five databases looking for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that included biofeedback to manage awake bruxism were targeted. The risk of bias (RoB) assessment was conducted using the Cochrane RoB-2 tool. Overall, four studies were included in this systematic review, all of which used the electromyographic activity of the masticatory muscles during the day and night as the main endpoint. Auditory and visual biofeedback could reduce the excessive level of masticatory muscle activity in a few days of intervention. The majority of the included studies had a high RoB and only one study had a low RoB. The standardization of the biofeedback protocols was also inconsistent, which makes it difficult to establish the ideal protocol for the use of biofeedback in awake bruxism. Thus, it is proposed that future studies seek to reduce methodological risks and obtain more robust samples.

Biofeedback interventions for short term upper limb function following stroke: A systematic review with meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Biofeedback has been used by rehabilitation professionals in the treatment of poststroke function impairments. PURPOSE: Investigate the efficacy of any type of biofeedback intervention for the treatment of upper limb function in individuals following stroke. STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review of literature with meta-analysis. METHODS: Literature searches were conducted using MESH terms and text words in PubMed, Lilacs, Scielo, Scopus, PEDro, and Web of Science databases. The main outcome was improvement in upper limb's motor function and motor function in activities of daily living. We calculated the Mean Difference and Standardized Mean Difference for the assessment scales reported as primary outcome. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using PEDro scale. The overall quality of the evidence was assessed using GRADE system. RESULTS: From 1360 articles identified, 16 were included in the review (09 in the meta-analysis). Three forest plots of hemiparesis and one of hemiplegia showed that biofeedback therapy associated with conventional therapy has a greater improvement in participants upper limb motor function when compared to isolated conventional therapy. Two forest plots of hemiparesis and one of hemiplegia showed no superiority in participants improvement for biofeedback associated with conventional therapy when compared to isolated conventional therapy. CONCLUSION: Biofeedback therapy associated with conventional therapy showed a small clinical effect when associated to conventional therapy and very low quality of evidence. Although further research with higher quality evidence is needed.

Efeito do biofeedback no coping da equipe de enfermagem: ensaio clínico randomizado / Efecto del biofeedback en el coping del equipo de enfermería: ensayo clínico aleatorizado / Effect of biofeedback on nursing team coping: a randomized clinical trial

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar o efeito do Biofeedback cardiovascular sobre os níveis de coping dos profissionais da enfermagem de um hospital universitário, quando comparado com uma atividade informatizada sem automonitoramento. Métodos Ensaio clínico randomizado, com dois grupos, Biofeedback e placebo, realizado com 115 profissionais de enfermagem de um hospital universitário. Os grupos participaram de nove encontros por três semanas. O desfecho foi avaliado pelo Inventário de Respostas de Coping no Trabalho, versão brasileira, aplicado prévio a primeira sessão e imediatamente após a sessão final. A análise do desfecho foi feita pela ANCOVA , considerando α = 5%. Resultados A variação das Respostas de Enfrentamento apresentou efeito estatisticamente significativo, o grupo controle apresentou aumento de 0,17 pontos nesta variação quando comparado ao grupo intervenção ( h 2 = 0,07; p=0,004). A variação das Respostas de Evitação e do Nível Geral de Coping não evidenciou efeito estatisticamente significativo na interação grupo/tempo (respectivamente, p=0,471 e p=0,786). Conclusão A intervenção com Biofeedback cardiovascular demonstrou não ter efeito superior ao placebo na melhora dos níveis de coping .

Resumen Objetivo Evaluar el efecto del Biofeedback cardiovascular sobre los niveles de coping de los profesionales de enfermería de un hospital universitario, en comparación con una actividad informatizada sin automonitoreo. Métodos Ensayo clínico aleatorizado, con dos grupos, Biofeedback y placebo, realizado con 115 profesionales de enfermería de un hospital universitario. Los grupos participaron en nueve encuentros durante tres semanas. El desenlace fue evaluado por el Inventario de Respuestas de Coping en el Trabajo, versión brasileña, aplicado antes de la primera sesión e inmediatamente después de la sesión final. El análisis del desenlace se realizó por ANCOVA , considerando α = 5 %. Resultados La variación en las Respuestas de Afrontamiento presentó un efecto estadísticamente significativo. El grupo control presentó un aumento de 0,17 puntos en esta variación al compararlo con el grupo experimental ( h 2 = 0,07; p=0,004). La variación de las Respuestas de Evitación y del Nivel General de Coping no evidenció un efecto estadísticamente significativo en la interacción grupo/tiempo (respectivamente, p=0,471 y p=0,786). Conclusión La intervención con Biofeedback cardiovascular demostró que no tiene efecto superior al del placebo en la mejora en los niveles de coping .Registro do Clinical Trial: NCT04446689

Abstract Objective To assess the effect of cardiovascular biofeedback on coping levels of nursing professionals at a university hospital, when compared with a computerized activity without self-monitoring. Methods This is a randomized clinical trial, with two groups, biofeedback and placebo, carried out with 115 nursing professionals from a university hospital. The groups participated in nine meetings for three weeks. The outcome was assessed by Coping Responses Inventory, Brazilian version, applied prior to the first session and immediately after the final session. The outcome analysis was performed by ANCOVA, considering α = 5%. Results The Coping Responses variation had a statistically significant effect. The control group showed an increase of 0.17 points in this variation when compared to the intervention group (h 2 = 0.07; p=0.004). The Avoidance Responses variation and Overall Coping Level did not show a statistically significant effect on the group/time interaction (p=0.471 and p=0.786, respectively). Conclusion Intervention with cardiovascular biofeedback was shown to have no superior effect than placebo in improving coping levels.Clinical Trial Record: NCT04446689

Effect of cardiovascular biofeedback on nursing staff stress: a randomized controlled clinical trial / Efecto del biofeedback cardiovascular sobre el estrés del personal de enfermería: un ensayo clínico controlado aleatorizado / Efeito do biofeedback cardiovascular no estresse da equipe de enfermagem: ensaio clínico controlado aleatório

ABSTRACT Objective: to assess the effect of cardiovascular biofeedback on nursing staff stress when compared to an activity without self-monitoring. Method: a randomized controlled clinical trial, carried out with nursing professionals from a university hospital. The intervention group (n=58) performed cardiovascular biofeedback, and the control (n=57) performed an online puzzle without self-monitoring, totaling nine meetings over three weeks. The outcome was assessed using the Stress Symptoms and Work-Related Stress scales, and the biological marker heart rate variability. The generalized estimating equations method was used. Results: the intervention had no effect on self-reported instruments (p>0.050). However, there was an effect of time (p<0.050) on all heart rate variability indicators, demonstrating changes over the sessions. Conclusion: cardiovascular biofeedback showed promising results in the biological marker, suggesting that it can be used in nursing staff as a complementary therapy by promoting better autonomic nervous system regulation.

RESUMEN Objetivo: evaluar el efecto del biofeedback cardiovascular sobre el estrés del equipo de enfermería cuando se compara con una actividad sin autocontrol. Método: ensayo clínico controlado aleatorizado, realizado con profesionales de enfermería de un hospital universitario. El grupo de intervención (n=58) realizó biorretroalimentación cardiovascular, y el control (n=57) realizó un rompecabezas en línea sin autocontrol, totalizando nueve reuniones durante tres semanas. El resultado se evaluó mediante las escalas Síntomas de Estrés y Estrés en el Trabajo, y el marcador biológico de variabilidad de la frecuencia cardiaca. Se analizó utilizando el método Generalizado de Ecuaciones de Estimación. Resultados: la intervención no tuvo efecto en los instrumentos autoinformados (p>0,050). Sin embargo, hubo un efecto del tiempo (p<0,050) en todos los indicadores de variabilidad de la frecuencia cardíaca, demostrando cambios a lo largo de las sesiones. Conclusión: el biofeedback cardiovascular mostró resultados promisorios en el marcador biológico, sugiriendo que puede ser utilizado en el equipo de enfermería como terapia complementaria al promover una mejor regulación del Sistema Nervioso Autonómico.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar o efeito do biofeedback cardiovascular no estresse da equipe de enfermagem quando comparado a uma atividade sem automonitoramento. Método: ensaio clínico controlado aleatório, realizado com profissionais de enfermagem de um hospital universitário. O grupo intervenção (n=58) realizou biofeedback cardiovascular, e o controle (n=57) fez um quebra-cabeça online sem automonitoramento, totalizando nove encontros durante três semanas. O desfecho foi avaliado pelas escalas Sintomas de Estresse e Estresse no Trabalho, e pelo marcador biológico variabilidade da frequência cardíaca. Utilizou-se com o método Equações de Estimativas Generalizadas. Resultados: a intervenção não apresentou efeito nos instrumentos autorreferidos (p>0,050). Entretanto, houve efeito de tempo (p<0,050) em todos os indicadores da variabilidade da frequência cardíaca, demonstrando modificação ao longo das sessões. Conclusão: o biofeedback cardiovascular apresentou resultados promissores no marcador biológico, sugerindo que poderá ser utilizado na equipe de enfermagem como terapia complementar por promover melhor regulação do Sistema Nervoso Autônomo.

Biofeedback no controle do bruxismo: uma revisão de escopo / Biofeedback for the control of bruxism: a scoping review

Objetivo: Compreender como os diversos tipos de biofeedback agem, e se são eficazes no controle do bruxismo do sono e vigília. Métodos: trata-se de uma revisão de escopo, com busca em três bases de dados, Medline (Pubmed e BVS), PEDRo e Cochrane, e redigida de acordo com as diretrizes do PRISMA-ScR. Resultados: Foram encontradas 595 referências. Após a remoção das duplicatas e da aplicação dos critérios de elegibilidade, trinta e cinco artigos foram incluídos. A maioria investigou o bruxismo do sono e o uso de placas orais integradas a sistemas de biofeedback, principalmente através de estímulos exteroceptivos. Na maioria dos artigos, o biofeedback foi efetivo a curto prazo para o bruxismo do sono, reduzindo a duração dos episódios, mas não alterando o número de episódios do bruxismo, mas com retorno aos níveis do pré-tratamento. O uso do biofeedback foi mais efetivo para o bruxismo de vigília e nos estudos que investigaram ambos os tipos de bruxismo, mas, com o uso do biofeedback apenas no período diurno, foi possível observar uma redução tanto nos eventos do bruxismo de vigília como nos do sono. Conclusão: A maioria das pesquisas se utilizou do biofeedback por meio de estímulo exteroceptivo, com reforço negativo a um estímulo aversivo; poucos estudos utilizaram o biofeedback com o propósito de condicionamento motor ou de mudança comportamental, sendo esses mais eficazes, mesmo após a retirada do estímulo.

Aim:To comprehend the functioning of various biofeedback types and their effectiveness in controlling sleep and awake bruxism. Methods: This is a scoping review, conducted in three databases: Medline (Pubmed and VHL), PEDRo, and Cochrane, and was written according to PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Results: Our study found 595 references; after removing duplicates and applying the eligibility criteria, thirty-five articles were included. Most studies examined the effectiveness of biofeedback systems that integrated oral splints, primarily through the use of exteroceptive stimuli, to manage sleep bruxism. Although biofeedback was found to reduce the duration of bruxism episodes in the short term in most articles, it did not significantly change the number of episodes, which reverted to pre-treatment levels. The use of biofeedback was more effective for awake bruxism. Moreover, in the studies that investigated both types of bruxism, but with the use of biofeedback only during the day, it was possible to observe a reduction in both the events of awake and sleep bruxism. Conclusion: Most studies used biofeedback with negative reinforcement through exteroceptive stimulation to an aversive stimulus. Few studies use biofeedback for motor conditioning or behavioral change. The latter approaches proved to be more effective, even after discontinuing the stimulus.

Heart Rate Variability Control Using a Biofeedback and Wearable System.

Heart rate variability is an important physiological parameter in medicine. This parameter is used as an indicator of physiological and psychological well-being and even of certain pathologies. Research on biofeedback integrates the fields of biological application (physiological behavior), system modeling, and automated control. This study proposes a new method for modeling and controlling heart rate variability as heart rate acceleration, a model expressed in the frequency domain. The model is obtained from excitation and response signals from heart rate variability, which through the instrumental variables method and the minimization of a cost function delivers a transfer function that represents the physiological phenomenon. This study also proposes the design of an adaptive controller using the reference model. The controller controls heart rate variability based on the light actuators designed here, generating a conditioned reflex that allows individuals to self-regulate their state through biofeedback, synchronizing this action to homeostasis. Modeling is conducted in a target population of middle-aged men who work as firefighters and forest firefighters. This study validates the proposed model, as well as the design of the controllers and actuators, through a simple experiment based on indoor cycling. This experiment has different segments, namely leaving inertia, non-controlled segment, and actively controlled segment.

Concurrent ankle-assisted movement, biofeedback, and proprioceptive stimulation reduces lower limb motor impairment and improves gait in persons with stroke.

BACKGROUND: Persons with stroke live with residual sensorimotor impairments in their lower limbs (LL), which affects their gait. PURPOSE: We investigated whether these residual impairments and resulting gait deficits can be reduced through concurrently applied assisted movement, biofeedback, and proprioceptive stimulation. METHODS: A robotic device provided impairment-oriented training to the affected LL of 24 persons with stroke (PwS) with moderate-to-severe LL impairment. Participants were given 22-30 training sessions over 2-3 months. During training, the interventional device cyclically dorsiflexed and plantarflexed the ankle at 5 deg/s through ±15 deg for 30 min while the participant assisted with the imposed movement. Concurrently, participants received visual biofeedback of assistive joint torque or agonist EMG while mechanical vibration was applied to the currently lengthening (i.e. antagonist) tendon. RESULTS: Sensorimotor impairment significantly decreased over the training period, which was sustained over 3 months, based on the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA-LL) (p < .001), modified Ashworth scale in dorsiflexors (p < .05), and an ankle strength test (dorsiflexors and plantarflexors) (p < .05). Balance and gait also improved, based on the Tinetti Performance Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA) (p < .05). CONCLUSION: Impairment-oriented training using a robotic device capable of applying assisted movement, biofeedback, and proprioceptive stimulation significantly reduces LL impairment and improves gait in moderately-to-severely impaired PwS.

Are static posturography-assisted biofeedback exercises effective in Parkinson's disease? / Os exercícios com biorretroalimentação assistidos por posturografia estática são eficazes na doença de Parkinson?

Abstract Background Parkinson disease (PD) is a progressive condition that causes disorders in movement and balance. Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of static posturography-assisted biofeedback exercises in PD-related balance disorder. Methods We screened 83 patients, 48 of whom were enrolled, and 41 completed the study. The sample was randomized into two groups, one submitted to static posturography-assisted biofeedback exercises and the other, to a conventional exercise program. The patients in the biofeedback group (n =20) performed biofeedback exercises in addition to conventional balance exercises. Those in the conventional exercise group (n = 21) performed classic balance exercises. Both groups were treated for 20 minutes per session 3 times a week for 6 weeks. The patients were evaluated using the Hoehn and Yahr Scale, the Movement Disorder Society-Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS), the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), the Tinetti Gait and Balance Assessment (TGBA), the Timed Up and GoTest (TUG), the Tandem Stance Test (TST), a Turkish version of the Stanford Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) before and at the end of the treatment. Results No statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of the MDS-UPDRS, BBS, TGBA, TST, TUG, HAQ, or BDI measurements before and after the treatment (p > 0.05). Conclusions Improved balance parameters were observed following balance training in the patients with PD, although static posturography-assisted biofeedback exercises appeared to provide no additional benefit. However, larger, randomized controlled trials are needed to investigate their effectiveness.

Resumo Antecedentes A doença de Parkinson (DP) é uma doença degenerativa que causa alterações no movimento e no equilíbrio. Objetivo Avaliar a eficácia dos exercícios com biorretroalimentação assistidos por posturografia estática na alterações do equilíbrio derivadas da DP. Métodos Selecionamos 83 pacientes, 48 dos quais foram incluídos, e 41 completaram o estudo. A amostra foi randomizada e dividida em dois grupos, um submetido a exercícios com biorretroalimentação assistidos por posturografia estática, e outro submetido a um programa de exercícios convencional. Os pacientes do grupo de biorretroalimentação (n = 20) fizeram exercícios com biorretroalimentação e exercícios convencionais de equilíbrio. E o grupo dos exercícios convencionais (n = 21), fez exercícios clássicos de equilíbrio. Ambos os grupos receberam tratamento durante 20 minutos por sessão, 3 vezes por semana, por 6 semanas. Os pacientes foram avaliados antes e depois do tratamento pela Escala de Hoehn e Yahr, Escala Unificada de Avaliação da Doença de Parkinson (EUADP) da Movement Disorder Society (MDS), a Escala de Equilíbrio Berg (EEB), Avaliação de Equilíbrio e Marcha Tinetti (AEMT), oTeste Timed Up and Go (TUG), o Teste de Apoio Tandem (TAT), a versão em turco do Questionário de Avaliação de Saúde (QAS) de Stanford, e o Inventário de Depressão de Beck (IDB). Resultados Não se observaram diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre os dois grupos quanto às mediçõesdo EUADP, EEB, AEMT, TAT, TUG, QAS ou IDB realizadas antes e depois do tratamento (p > 0.05). Conclusões Verificou-se uma melhoria dos parâmetros de equilíbrio após os exercícios de equilíbrio nos pacientes com DP, apesar de não ter sido detectado sem nenhum benefício adicional aparente dos exercícios com retroalimentação assistidos por posturografia estática. Contudo, é necessário efetuar ensaios maiores, randomizados e controlados para estudar a sua eficácia.

Uso de Biofeedback en Pacientes con Incontinencia Urinaria post Prostatectomía: Scoping Review / Use of Biofeedback in Post Prostatectomy Urinary Incontinence Patients: Scoping Review

Introducción. El cáncer de próstata es la neoplasia más frecuente en hombres. La prostatectomía radical es el tratamiento de elección para el cáncer de próstata localizado. Una de las complicaciones más frecuentes de este tipo de cirugía es la incontinencia urinaria, la que impacta negativamente en la calidad de vida de los pacientes. El biofeedback es una de las intervenciones terapéuticas que forman parte del tratamiento conservador de primera línea para la incontinencia urinaria post prostatectomía, sin embargo, no existe consenso sobre su protocolo de aplicación. Objetivo. Conocer la evidencia disponible sobre el uso del biofeedback en el tratamiento de la Incontinencia Urinaria en pacientes post prostatectomía. Métodos. Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica en las bases de Datos: Science Direct:,Mendeley, Medline, Pubmed, Epistemonikos, Ibecs, Lilacs y Scielo. Se obtuvo un total de 172 artículos, de los cuales 12 cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión y exclusión siendo seleccionados para la síntesis cualitativa. Resultados. Los 12 artículos seleccionados tienen una amplia variabilidad en los protocolos de aplicación del biofeedback. Las principales intervenciones para el tratamiento de la incontinencia urinaria post prostatectomía radical, efectuados en estos estudios, son el entrenamiento muscular de piso pélvico con biofeedback y/o electroestimulación. La mayor efectividad terapéutica con BFB se obtuvo en los estudios que combinan EMPP, BFB y EE. Conclusión. El uso de biofeedback en el tratamiento de la incontinencia urinaria post prostatectomía presenta amplia variabilidad en los protocolos de aplicación. La mayor efectividad se obtiene en terapias combinadas.

Background. Prostate cancer is the most frequent neoplasm in men. Radical prostatectomy is the treatment of choice for localized prostate cancer. One of the most frequent complications of this type of surgery is urinary incontinence, which has a negative impact on the quality of life of patients. Biofeedback is one of the therapeutic interventions that are part of the first-line conservative treatment for post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence; however, there is no consensus on its application protocol. Objective. To know the available evidence on the use of biofeedback in the treatment of urinary incontinence in post prostatectomy patients. Methods. A bibliographic search was carried out in the following databases: Science Direct, Mendeley, Medline, Pubmed, Epistemonikos, Ibecs, Lilacs and Scielo. A total of 172 articles were obtained, of which 12 fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were selected for qualitative synthesis. Results. The 12 selected articles have a wide variability in the biofeedback application protocols. The main interventions for the treatment of urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy, performed in these studies, are pelvic floor muscle training with biofeedback and/or electrostimulation. The greatest therapeutic effectiveness with BFB was obtained in the studies combining PFMT, BFB and ES. Conclusion. The use of biofeedback in the treatment of post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence presents a wide variability in the application protocols.

Efectividad de la Terapia Física en la Disfunción Eréctil Posterior a Prostatectomía Radical: Scoping Review / Effectiveness of Physical Therapy in Erectile Dysfunction Following Radical Prostatectomy: Scoping Review

Introducción. El cáncer de próstata es una patología con alta prevalencia, la prostatectomía radical es la técnica quirúrgica utilizada y la disfunción eréctil es una de las secuelas más frecuentes de ésta. En la actualidad existen diferentes intervenciones en el manejo de la disfunción eréctil. La literatura refiere como tratamiento de primera línea el uso de inhibidores de la fosfodiesterasa-5, también se describe que el uso de terapia física podría potenciar la mejora de la disfunción eréctil en conjunto con el tratamiento farmacológico. Objetivo. Identificar y describir la evidencia científica disponible referente a la efectividad de la terapia física en pacientes con disfunción eréctil posterior a una prostatectomía. Métodos. Se realizó una búsqueda en Pubmed, LILACS, Cochrane Library, de artículos publicados entre el 2012 y 2022. Se seleccionaron los relacionados con los efectos de la terapia física en la disfunción eréctil posterior a prostatectomía Resultados: En esta revisión se incluyeron 9 estudios. La mayoría demostró mejoras en la disfunción eréctil con la aplicación de la terapia de ondas de choque extracorpóreas de baja intensidad y entrenamiento muscular de piso pélvico, combinada con el tratamiento farmacológico. Conclusión. Debido a la alta prevalencia de la disfunción eréctil posterior a prostatectomía radical y a la escasa evidencia existente, se sugieren más investigaciones en el área, con diseños metodológicamente rigurosos, que incluyan un mayor tamaño de muestra y profundicen en la creación protocolos de rehabilitación y su posterior seguimiento.

Background. Prostate cancer is a pathology with high prevalence, radical prostatectomy is the surgical technique used and erectile dysfunction is one of the most frequent sequelae of this. Currently there are different interventions in the management of erectile dysfunction. The literature refers as first line treatment the use of phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, it is also described that the use of physical therapy could enhance the improvement of erectile dysfunction in conjunction with pharmacological treatment. Objective. To identify and describe the available scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of physical therapy in patients with erectile dysfunction following prostatectomy. Methods. A search was performed in Pubmed, LILACS, Cochrane Library, of articles published between 2012 and 2022. Those related to the effects of physical therapy on post-prostatectomy erectile dysfunction were selected Results. 9 studies were included in this review. Most demonstrated improvements in erectile dysfunction with the application of low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy and pelvic floor muscle training combined with pharmacological treatment. Conclusion. Due to the high prevalence of erectile dysfunction after radical prostatectomy and the scarce existing evidence, more research is suggested in this area, with methodologically rigorous designs, including a larger sample size and deepening in the creation of rehabilitation protocols and their subsequent follow-up.