Usability of exergames as a home-based balance training tool for older adults: protocol for a systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: Exergames are used in the clinical practice of geriatric rehabilitation to increase physical activity levels and motivate players/patients. Their use in the home environment makes it possible to perform fun, engaging and interactive training with a large number of repetitions, thereby reducing the negative repercussions of postural imbalance in older adults. The aim of this systematic review is to collate and analyse evidence on the usability of exergames as a tool for home-based balance training for older adults. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: We will include randomised controlled trials involving healthy older adults (aged 60 years or older) who are described as having impaired static or dynamic balance using any subjective or objective assessment criteria. We will search Web of Science, MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, ScienceDirect and the Cochrane Library from database inception to December 2022. CLINICALTRIALS: gov, the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform and ReBEC will be searched for ongoing or unpublished trials. Two independent reviewers will screen the studies and extract the data. The findings will be presented in the text and tables, and if possible, relevant meta-analyses will be performed. The risk of bias and the quality of evidence will be assessed based on the recommendations of the Cochrane Handbook and Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation, respectively. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethical approval was not required because of the nature of this study. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations and through clinical rehabilitation networks. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42022343290.

Existing predictive methods applied to gait analysis of patients with diabetes: study protocol for a systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: Type 2 diabetes can lead to gait abnormalities, including a longer stance phase, shorter steps and improper foot pressure distribution. Quantitative data from objective methods for evaluating gait patterns are accurate and cost-effective. In addition, it can also help predictive methods to forecast complications and develop early strategies to guide treatments. To date, no research has systematically summarised the predictive methods used to assess type 2 diabetic gait. Therefore, this protocol aims to identify which predictive methods have been employed to assess the diabetic gait. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This protocol will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocol (PRISMA-P) statement. Electronic searches of articles from inception to January 2022 will be performed, from May 2021 to 31 January 2022, in the Web of Science, MEDLINE, Embase, IEEE Xplore Digital Library, Scopus, CINAHL, Google Scholar, APA PsycInfo, the Cochrane Library and in references of key articles and grey literature without language restrictions. We will include studies that examined the development and/or validation of predictive methods to assess type 2 diabetic gait in adults aged >18 years without amputations, use of assistive devices, ulcers or neuropathic pain. Two independent reviewers will screen the included studies and extract the data using a customised charting form. A third reviewer will resolve any disagreements. A narrative synthesis will be performed for the included studies. Risk of bias and quality of evidence will be assessed using the Prediction Model Risk of Bias Assessment Tool and the Transparent Reporting of a multivariable prediction model for Individual Prognosis or Diagnosis. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethical approval is not required because only available secondary published data will be analysed. The findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and/or presentations at relevant conferences and other media platforms. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CDR42020199495.

Effects of Exercise and Diet on Body Composition and Physical Function in Older Hispanics with Type 2 Diabetes.

Type 2 Diabetes mellitus (DM2) affects 9.3% of the U.S. population. Health disparities are evident in DM2; twice as many Hispanics as non-Hispanic Whites have DM2. The objective of this study was to pilot test the feasibility of implementing and evaluating trends of nutrition and exercise interventions to improve diabetes management and physical function in 29 disadvantaged older Hispanics with DM2. We delivered combined diet and exercise (n = 8) and diet-only (n = 6) interventions and compared the results to a control/no intervention group (n = 15). We cluster-randomized the participants into the three arms based on the senior center they attended. The interventions were delivered twice a week for 3 months (24 sessions) and assessments were conducted pre and post intervention. The results indicate the feasibility of implementing the interventions and slight improvements in both intervention groups compared to the control group. The diet-only group tended to have larger improvements on body composition measures (especially in muscle mass), while the diet + exercise group tended to have larger improvements on physical function (especially in chair stands). There was a high rate of attrition, especially in the diet + exercise group, but those who completed the intervention tended to have improvements in body composition and physical function.

Is motor learning of stroke patients in non-immersive virtual environment influenced by laterality of injury? A preliminary study.

BACKGROUND: Stroke is the leading cause of long-term disability in adults, causing residual sensorimotor deficits in many survivors. Patients may have different impairments according to laterality of injury, as well as different responses to some therapies. OBJECTIVE: This preliminary study sought to investigate motor learning in rehabilitation of stroke patients with non-immersive virtual environment by process (electroencephalography) and product (performance) measures in stroke patients with left and right cerebral hemispheres damage. METHODS: The study included 10 chronic stroke patients; 5 with left brain injury (LI), mean age 48.8 years (±4.76), and 5 with right brain injury (RI), mean age 52 years (±10.93). Patients were evaluated for electroencephalographic activity (alpha and beta frequencies) and performance (absolute error) in a darts game on XBOX Kinect (Microsoft®). Then they underwent a virtual darts game training task, 12 sessions for 4 weeks (acquisition stage). After training, they were revaluated (long-term retention). RESULTS: RI group increased alpha power and decreased beta in ipsilesional areas, increased activation on left hemisphere and decreased the absolute error of performance; LI group increased right hemisphere activation and did not decrease the absolute error. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with right brain injury reduce neural effort and errors after virtual darts training, which did not happen to patients with left brain injury. Therefore, the laterality of lesion should be considered in studies that use virtual reality for stroke rehabilitation.

Disposição histórica das internações por Acidente Vascular Cerebral Isquêmico no Nordeste brasileiro entre 1999-2019 / Historical disposition of hospitalizations for Ischemic Stroke in Northeast Brazil between 1999­2019

O objetivo foi analisar a disposição histórica das internações por Acidente Vascular Cerebral Isquêmico (AVCI) e suas características hospitalares dos últimos 20 anos no nordeste brasileiro, hipotetizando o impacto da criação de políticas públicas nacionais. Trata-se de um estudo ecológico retrospectivo de série temporal entre 1999-2019, baseado em dados coletados no Sistema de Informação Hospitalar (SIH) do SUS (DATASUS). Os dados foram estratificados por sexo e faixa etária, e observou-se grande redução do número de internações, valor total (custo) e número de óbitos entre 2001-2002 e entre 2013-2014; os demais anos apresentaram graus proporcionais de constância, sem alterações importantes. As mesmas variáveis aumentaram com a idade, mas mostraram-se equivalentes entre os sexos. Concluiu-se que dados estudados sobre AVCI indicaram declínio acentuado nos anos de 2002 e 2014. Inúmeros fatores podem ter influenciado essa mudança de comportamento, incluindo a implementação de programas como o Hiperdia e Mais Médicos.

The aim of this study was to analyze the historical disposition of hospitalizations for ischemic stroke and their hospital characteristics over the last 20 years in northeastern Brazil, hypothesizing the impact of the creation of national public policies. This is a retrospective ecological study of time series between 1999­2019 based on data collected in the Hospital Information System of the SUS. The data were stratified by sex and age group. There was a significant reduction in the number of hospitalizations, total value (cost), and number of deaths between the years 2001­2002 and 2013­2014; the other years show similar constancy. The same variables increased with age, but were found to be equivalent between genders. The data studied for IS showed a sharp decline between 2002 and 2014. Numerous factors might have influenced this change in behavior, including the implementation of programs such as Hiperdia and Mais Médicos.

Effects of exergames training on postural balance in patients who had a chronic stroke: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: Exergames training, as an additional therapy to standard care, has been widely used for motor recovery after patients who had a stroke, and it is a valuable and positive tool in the rehabilitation of this population. This study describes a single-blind randomised clinical trial that will aim to investigate the effects of exergames training on postural balance in patients with chronic stroke. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: Forty-two individuals with chronic stroke (>6 months), aged 20-75 years, will be randomised into two groups: the experimental group, which will be subjected to an exergames protocol, and control group, which will undergo a kinesiotherapy protocol. Both protocols are based on postural balance. The intervention will consist of 40-minute sessions two times per week for 10 consecutive weeks. The volunteers will be evaluated before the treatment, at the end of the interventions and 8 weeks thereafter. The primary outcome will be postural balance (Berg Balance Scale, Functional Reach Test, Timed Up and Go test and Centre of Pressure variables) and secondary outcomes will include gait (6 m timed walk and Kinovea Software), cortical activation patterns (electroencephalography Emotiv EPOC), functional independence (Functional Independence Measure), quality of life (Stroke-Specific Quality of Life Scale) and motivation (Intrinsic Motivation Inventory). ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (number 3.434.350). The results of the study will be disseminated to participants through social networks and will be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal and scientific meetings. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (RBR-78v9hx).

Fatores sociodemográficos e clínico-funcionais em idosos com diabetes mellitus tipo 2 pré-frágeis e frágeis relacionados ao baixo nível de atividade física / Sociodemographic and clinical functional factors in pre-frail and frail older adults with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in relation to low levels of physical activity

OBJETIVO: determinar os fatores sociodemográficos e clínico-funcionais relacionados com o baixo nível de atividade física (BNAF) em idosos com diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DM2) pré-frágeis e frágeis. MÉTODO: trata-se de estudo observacional, analítico, de caráter transversal. A amostra foi composta por idosos com idade igual ou superior a 60 anos e com diagnóstico clínico de DM2 atendidos no Hospital Universitário Onofre Lopes (HUOL). Foram avaliados dados sociodemográficos e clínico-funcionais com os seguintes instrumentos: Timed Up and Go (TUG), Mini Exame do Estado Mental (MEEM), Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) de 15 itens, Questionário Internacional de Atividade Física (IPAQ) e fenótipo de fragilidade. Foram utilizados os testes de Qui-quadrado e Mann Whitney para análise dos dados. RESULTADO: a amostra do estudo foi composta por 113 indivíduos classificados como pré-frágeis (52,2%) e frágeis (47,8%). O BNAF foi verificado em 79,6% da amostra. As variáveis que apresentaram diferença estatística significante com o BNAF foram: anos de escolaridade (p=0,02), participação social (p=0,005), insulinoterapia (p=0,02), dor em membros inferiores (p=0,03) e sintomas depressivos (p=0,04). Também, foram encontradas diferenças significantes entre o BNAF e idade (p=0,04) e anos de escolaridade (p=0,05). CONCLUSÃO: O BNAF está associado a alguns fatores sociodemográficos e clínico-funcionais, sendo alguns destes modificáveis e, identificá-los é relevante para elaboração de intervenções em saúde adequadas para prevenção e tratamento tanto do DM2 quanto da Síndrome da Fragilidade (SF).

OBJECTIVE: To determine the sociodemographic and clinical-functional factors related to low levels of physical activity in pre-frail and frail older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2). METHOD: an observational, analytical, cross-sectional study was performed. The sample consisted of older adults aged 60 years or over with a clinical diagnosis of DM2 who were treated at the Onofre Lopes University Hospital (or HUOL). Sociodemographic and clinical-functional data were evaluated with the following instruments: the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), the 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and the frailty phenotype. The Chi-square and Mann Whitney tests were used for data analysis. RESULT: the study sample consisted of 113 individuals classified as pre-frail (52.2%) and frail (47.8%). Low levels of physical activity were verified in 79.6% of the sample. The most closely related variables that showed a statistically significant difference with low levels of physical activity were: years of schooling (p=0.02), social participation (p=0.005), insulin therapy (p=0.02), pain in the lower limbs (p=0.03) and depressive symptoms (p=0.04). Also, significant differences were found between low levels of physical activity and age (p=0.04) and years of schooling (p=0.05). CONCLUSION: Low levels of physical activity are associated with certain sociodemographic and clinical-functional factors, some of which are modifiable. Identifying these is important for the development of appropriate health interventions for the prevention and treatment of both DM2 and the Frailty Syndrome (FS)

Síndrome da Fragilidade em idosos com diabetes mellitus tipo 2 e fatores associados / The frailty syndrome in older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus and associated factors

Objetivo: Comparar os fatores clínico-funcionais entre os grupos relacionados ao perfil do fenótipo da síndrome da fragilidade (pré-frágil e frágil) em idosos com diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DM 2). Método: Estudo descritivo, analítico, de caráter transversal, com abordagem quantitativa. Foram avaliados 113 idosos diabéticos de ambos os sexos em relação aos dados pessoais, sociodemográficos, clínico-funcionais, função mental, cognitiva e fenótipo de fragilidade. Foi utilizado o teste de qui-quadrado e um modelo de regressão logística. Resultados: A média etária foi 68,66±6,62 anos, maioria feminina (61,9%), analfabeto ou fundamental I incompleto (60,2%), pré-frágil (52,2%), sedentários (79,6%) e diagnosticados com DM2 há mais de 5 anos (58,3%). Houve associação significativa entre os grupos pré-frágil e frágil e escolaridade ( p=0,004), participação social ( p=0,004), percepção subjetiva da visão ( p=0,004), hemoglobina glicada ( p=0,036), dor em membros inferiores ( p<0,001), quedas ( p=0,012), sintomas depressivos ( p=0,002) e mobilidade ( p=0,004). O modelo de regressão logística apresentou acurácia de 93,6% e as variáveis significantes foram: escolaridade ( p=0,039), dor em membros inferiores ( p=0,025) e risco de quedas ( p=0,033). Conclusão: Dentre todos os fatores relacionados com os grupos do fenótipo de fragilidade pré-frágil e frágil, escolaridade, dor em membros inferiores e mobilidade foram os que mais se relacionaram com a piora da síndrome e seu avançar.

Objective: To compare clinical-functional factors among groups in relation to the frailty syndrome (pre-frail and frail) phenotype profile in older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM 2). Methods: A descriptive, analytical, cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach was performed. A total of 113 diabetic older adults of both sexes were evaluated in terms of their personal, socio-demographic, clinical-functional, mental, cognitive and fragility phenotype data. The Chi-square test and a logistic regression model were used. Results: The mean age was 68.66±6.62 years, and the sample was mostly female (61.9%), illiterate or with an incomplete primary education (60.2%), pre-frail (52.2%), sedentary (79.6%), and had been diagnosed with DM2 for more than 5 years (58.3%). There was a significant association between "pre-frail and frail" individuals and schooling ( p=0.004), social participation ( p=0.004), a subjective perception of vision ( p=0.004), glycated hemoglobin ( p=0.036), limb pain ( p=0.012), depressive symptoms ( p=0.002) and mobility ( p=0.004). The logistic regression model showed an accuracy of 93.6% and the significant variables were education ( p=0.039), pain in the lower limbs ( p=0.025) and risk of falls ( p=0.033). Conclusion: among all the factors related to the "pre-frail" and "frail" phenotype, schooling, pain in the lower limbs and mobility were most related to the worsening of the syndrome and its progress.

Level of motor, sensory and functional impairment from stroke at admission and hospital discharge in Brazil.

Primary Objective: To compare the level of motor, sensory and functional impairment of individuals hospitalized in a stroke unit in Brazil at the time of admission and the profile observed at hospital discharge. Design: Observational and longitudinal outcome study. Methods and Procedure: We assessed 41 patients with ischemic stroke at admission and hospital discharge by using the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), Fugl-Meyer Physical Performance Scale (FM), Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and divided in the group that received or not the thrombolytic therapy. Were used wilcoxon and spearman tests. Results: Significant differences were found between admission and hospital discharge assessment (p < .0001) indicating clinical improvement for individuals submitted to thrombolytic treatment. A moderate correlation was observed for total FM and total FIM (ρ = 0.729; p value<.0001); total FM and motor FIM (ρ = 0.705; p value<.0001); and a moderate negative correlation for NIHSS and total FM (ρ = -0.709; p value<.0001). Strong correlation between motor FIM and total FIM was also observed (ρ = 0.972; p value<.0001). Conclusions: Clinical severity was softened along the hospitalization period. The clinical, motor, sensory and functional characterization enlarges the understanding of the stroke sequelae, besides monitoring the deficits and the level of disability in this population in Brazil.

Circadian activity rhythm and fragmentation are associated with sleep-wake patterns and sleep quality in patients with stroke.

BACKGROUND: Activity levels and disturbances of the sleep-wake pattern affect health and quality of life and need to be further explored in patients with stroke. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate activity levels and their association with sleep-wake patterns in patients with stroke. METHODS: Ten adults with (51±6 years) and 10 without stroke (52±7 years) participated in the study; they were matched on age, sex and educational level. Neurological status, motor function, sleep quality, and activity levels were measured. The groups were compared using Student t-tests and the association between the measures was assessed using Pearson's correlation. RESULTS: Compared to people without stroke, those with stroke had worse sleep quality (p = 0.044), twice lower 24h-activity levels (p < 0.0001), higher interdaily stability and intradaily variability, lower activity during the most active 10 h and during the least active 5 h. Sleep quality was associated with activity level (r= -0.72) and with within-day activity variability (r= 0.53). CONCLUSIONS: Activity level and fragmentation are associated with sleep-wake patterns and sleep quality in patients with stroke.

Método Pilates na pressão arterial de idosos: uma revisão narrativa / Pilates Method on arterial pressure of elderly: a narrative review / Método de Pilates en la presión arterial antigua: una revisión narrative

O objetivo do estudo foi buscar na literatura a influência do Método Pilates na pressão arterial de idosos. Trata-se de uma revisão de literatura científica do tipo narrativa. Foram analisados cinco artigos (três ensaios clínicos randomizados, uma revisão sistemática com metanálise e um texto on-line). Observa-se que o Método Pilates é eficaz na manutenção da pressão arterial de idosos como um coadjuvante a alguma terapia associada.

The aimed of the study was to search the literature for the influence of the Pilates Method on the blood pressure of the elderly. It is a review of scientific literature of the type of narrative. Five articles were analysed (three randomized clinical trials, one systematic review with a meta-analysis and one text online). The Pilates Method is effective in maintaining the blood pressure of the elderly as a coadjuvant to some associated therapy.

El objetivo del estudio fue buscar en la literatura la influencia del Método Pilates en la presión arterial de los ancianos. Se trata de una revisión de la literatura científica del tipo narrativa. Se analizaron cinco artículos (tres ensayos clínicos aleatorizados, una revisión sistemática con metanálisis y un texto en línea). Se observa que el Método Pilates es eficaz en el mantenimiento de la presión arterial de los ancianos como un coadyuvante a alguna terapia asociada.

Palmar strength and sociodemographic, clinical-functional, and psycho-cognitive factors in elderly with Diabetes Mellitus / Força de preensão palmar e fatores sociodemográficos, clínico funcionais e psicocognitivos em idosos com Diabetes Mellitus / Fuerza de asimiento palmar y factores sociodemográficos, clínicos funcionales y psicos cognitivos en ancianos con Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract Introduction: An important consequence of the aging of people with DM2 is physical disability, particularly the loss of mobility. Objective: To determine sociodemographic, clinical-functional, and psycho-cognitive factors related to the reduction in hand grip strength (HGS) in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) and to verify the relationship between HGS and fragility. Method: This is an observational cross-sectional study with 156 elderly individuals aged 60 years and over, both male and female, diagnosed with DM2. The participants were assessed according to sociodemographic, clinical-functional, psycho-cognitive, and functional mobility data. HGS was evaluated using a manual dynamometer. The tests performed were: Mann-Whitney or Kruskal-Wallis, and Chi-square. The level of significance was set at 5% (p < 0.05). Results: A significant relationship was observed between HGS and each of the following: sex (p < 0.001), age range (p = 0.04), marital status (p = 0.004), physical activity (p = 0.06), number of conditions diagnosed (p = 0.002), use of insulin therapy (p = 0.03), complaint of pain in lower limb power (p < 0.001), falls in the last year (p = 0.004), fear of falling (p = 0.003), Mini-Mental State Examination (p = 0.01), Geriatric Depression Scale (p = 0.008), fragility phenotype (p < 0.001). Conclusion: HGS was reduced in elderly women with DM2, those who did not have a marital life had five or more diseases diagnosed with insulin therapy, did not engage in regular physical activity, complained of lower limb pain, had a history of two or more falls in the last year, had a fear of falling, had a cognitive deficit, had depressive symptoms, and were fragile.

Resumo Introdução: Uma consequência importante do envelhecimento das pessoas com DM 2 é a incapacidade física, particularmente a perda de mobilidade. Objetivo: Determinar os fatores sociodemográficos, clínico-funcionais e psico-cognitivos relacionados à redução da força de preensão palmar (FPP) em idosos com Diabetes Mellitus tipo 2 (DM 2) e verificar a relação entre FPP e fragilidade. Método: Trata-se de um estudo observacional, transversal, com 156 idosos de 60 anos ou mais, com diagnóstico de DM 2, masculino e feminino. Os sujeitos foram avaliados segundo dados sociodemográficos, clínicos, funcionais, psicocognitivos e de mobilidade funcional. A FPP foi avaliada por meio do Dinamômetro Manual. Foram realizados os testes de Mann-Whitney ou Kruskal-Wallis e Qui-quadrado. O nível de significância foi estabelecido em 5% (p < 0,05). Resultados: Houve relação significante entre FPP e as variáveis: carga de fragilidade (p < 0,001), sexo (p < 0,001), faixa etária (p = 0,04), estado civil (p = 0,004), atividade física (p = 0,06), número de patologias (p = 0,002), uso de insulinoterapia (p = 0,03), queixa de dor em membros inferiores (p < 0,001), queda no último ano (p = 0,004), medo de cair (p = 0,003), MMSE (p = 0,01), GDS (p = 0,008), fenótipo de fragilidade (p < 0,001). Conclusão: A FPP é reduzida em idosas com DM 2 sem vida conjugal, com cinco ou mais doenças diagnosticadas, com uso de insulinoterapia, não praticantes de atividade física regular, que se queixaram de dor nos membros inferiores, com história de duas ou mais quedas no último ano, medo de cair, com déficit cognitivo, que apresentava sintomas depressivos e eram frágeis

Resumen Introducción: Una consecuencia importante del desarrollo de las tareas con DM 2 es una incapacidad física, particularmente una pierda de movilidad. Objetivo: Determinar los factores sociodemográficos, clínico-funcionales y psico-cognitivos relacionados a la reducción de la fuerza de asimiento palmar (FPP) en ancianos con Diabetes Mellitus tipo 2 (DM 2) e verificar la relación entre FPP y fragilidad. Método: Estudio observacional, transversal, con 156 ancianos de 60 años o más, con DM 2, masculino y femenino. Los sujetos fueron evaluados según datos sociodemográficos, clínicos, funcionales, psicocognitivos y de movilidad funcional. La FPP fue evaluada por medio del Dinamómetro Manual. Se realizaron las pruebas de Mann-Whitney o Kruskal-Wallis y Qui-cuadrado, p < 0,05. Resultados: La relación entre el FPP y las variantes de carga de fragilidad (p < 0,001), sexo (p < 0,001), faixa etária (p = 0,04), estado civil (p = 0,004), atividad física ( p = 0,06), número de patologias (p = 0,002), uso de insulinoterapia (p = 0,03), queixa de dor en miembros inferiores (p < 0,001), queda no último año (p = 0,004), medo de cair (p = 0,003), MMSE (p = 0,01), GDS (p = 0,008), fenótipo de fragilidade (p < 0,001). Conclusión: La FPP se reduce en ancianas con DM 2 sin vida conyugal, con cinco o más enfermedades diagnosticadas, con uso de insulinoterapia, no practicantes de actividad física regular, que se quejaron de dolor en los miembros inferiores, con historia de dos o más caídas en el último año, miedo a caer, con déficit cognitivo, que presentaba síntomas depresivos y eran frágiles.

Electroencephalographic changes using virtual reality program: technical note.

The aim of the study was to describe the technique of an electroencephalographic (EEG) assessment using the Emotiv EPOC® during the performance of a virtual reality motor task and compare theta, alpha, beta and gamma power frequencies between left and right hemispheres. This is technical note in which 9 healthy young subjects were submitted to an evaluation with Emotiv EPOC® during the Nintendo® Wii 'Basic Step' virtual game using the Wii Balance Board (WBB) on a support 13 centimeters high. The Wilcoxon statistical test was applied and pairing between the cerebral hemispheres was performed. Participants had a mean age of 22.55 ± 2.78 years, 77.8% were right-handed, and 22.8% had no experience with the selected virtual game. According to dominancy (right handed n = 7; and left handed n = 2), it was observed that the right-handed individuals showed significantly greater difference in the right hemisphere in the EEG in front region (gamma power in channels AF4, p = 0.028 and F4, p = 0.043) and parietal region (theta and beta power in P8 channel, p = 0.043), while alpha power showed a greater activity in the left hemisphere (P7 channel, p = 0.043). Considering the inter-hemispheric analysis, it was observed that the right hemisphere presented a higher activation potential in the frontal lobe for gamma waves (p = 0.038 for AF3-AF4 channels), and in the temporal lobe for beta and alpha waves (p = 0.021). This study showed that the virtual environment can provide distinct cortical activation patterns considering an inter-hemispheric analysis, highlighting greater activation potential in the right hemisphere.

Effects of constraint-induced movement therapy for lower limbs on measurements of functional mobility and postural balance in subjects with stroke: a randomized controlled trial.

Abstrato Background: Constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) is suggested to reduce functional asymmetry between the upper limbs after stroke. However, there are few studies about CIMT for lower limbs. OBJECTIVE: To examine the effects of CIMT for lower limbs on functional mobility and postural balance in subjects with stroke. METHODS: A 40-day follow-up, single-blind randomized controlled trial was performed with 38 subacute stroke patients (mean of 4.5 months post-stroke). Participants were randomized into: treadmill training with load to restraint the non-paretic ankle (experimental group) or treadmill training without load (control group). Both groups performing daily training for two consecutive weeks (nine sessions) and performed home-based exercises during this period. As outcome measures, postural balance (Berg Balance Scale - BBS) and functional mobility (Timed Up and Go test - TUG and kinematic parameters of turning - Qualisys System of movement analysis) were obtained at baseline, mid-training, post-training and follow-up. RESULTS: Repeated-measures ANOVA showed improvements after training in postural balance (BBS: F = 39.39, P < .001) and functional mobility, showed by TUG (F = 18.33, P < .001) and by kinematic turning parameters (turn speed: F = 35.13, P < .001; stride length: F = 29.71, P < .001; stride time: F = 13.42, P < .001). All these improvements were observed in both groups and maintained in follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that two weeks of treadmill gait training associated to home-based exercises can be effective to improve postural balance and functional mobility in subacute stroke patients. However, the load addition was not a differential factor in intervention.

Brain activity during a lower limb functional task in a real and virtual environment: A comparative study.

BACKGROUND: Virtual Reality (VR) has been contributing to Neurological Rehabilitation because of its interactive and multisensory nature, providing the potential of brain reorganization. Given the use of mobile EEG devices, there is the possibility of investigating how the virtual therapeutic environment can influence brain activity. OBJECTIVE: To compare theta, alpha, beta and gamma power in healthy young adults during a lower limb motor task in a virtual and real environment. METHODS: Ten healthy adults were submitted to an EEG assessment while performing a one-minute task consisted of going up and down a step in a virtual environment - Nintendo Wii virtual game "Basic step" - and in a real environment. RESULTS: Real environment caused an increase in theta and alpha power, with small to large size effects mainly in the frontal region. VR caused a greater increase in beta and gamma power, however, with small or negligible effects on a variety of regions regarding beta frequency, and medium to very large effects on the frontal and the occipital regions considering gamma frequency. CONCLUSIONS: Theta, alpha, beta and gamma activity during the execution of a motor task differs according to the environment that the individual is exposed - real or virtual - and may have varying size effects if brain area activation and frequency spectrum in each environment are taken into consideration.

Sobrecarga de cuidadores familiares e independência funcional de pacientes pós-acidente vascular encefálico / Relationship between overburdened family caregivers and functional independence in stroke survivors

Objetivo Correlacionar o nível de independência funcional de pacientes pós-acidente vascular encefálico com a sobrecarga de seus cuidadores. Métodos Trata-se de um estudo observacional descritivo com cuidadores de ambos os sexos e faixa etária de 16 a 74 anos, avaliados em domicílio. Os cuidadores, após aceitarem participar do estudo e assinarem o termo de consentimento livre e esclarecido, foram avaliados por um questionário, que serviu como roteiro de entrevista, pela Escala de Sobrecarga do Cuidador (Caregiver Burden Scale) e pela Escala Medida de Independência Funcional. Resultados As 27 entrevistas realizadas permitiram traçar um perfil dos cuidadores, tendo predominância de filhos (37,03%) e cônjuges (37,03%) na realização do cuidado, seguidos por outros (25,9%). Neste estudo, observou-se que os cuidadores apresentaram maior sobrecarga de cuidado nos domínios tensão geral (1.83) e isolamento (1.78), evidenciando que não só os pacientes, mas também os cuidadores precisam de atenção e apoio profissional. No entanto, neste estudo, não houve correlação significativa (r=-0,1551e p=0,4399) entre os domínios da Escola Medida de Independências Funcional e da Escala de Sobrecarga do Cuidador, podendo ser justificado com as novas estratégias adquiridas pelo cuidador com o intuito de superar as crises na condição dos cuidados. Conclusão Conclui-se que este estudo possibilitou analisar o quadro funcional do paciente com sequela de acidente vascular encefálico e, especificamente, de seu cuidador, evidenciando a necessidade de desenvolver um sistema de apoio formal e informal para os cuidadores.

Objective To determine whether stroke survivors' level of functional independence correlates with overburdened caregivers. Methods This is a descriptive, observational study of male and female caregivers aged 16 to 74 years assessed at home. Once the caregivers accepted to join the study and signed an informed consent form, they answered the Caregiver Burden Scale, the Functional Independence Measure, and a questionnaire, which also served as an interview script. Results The interviews allowed drawing a profile of the 27 caregivers, mostly children (37.03%) and spouses (37.03%), followed by others (25.94%). The domains that most burdened the caregivers were general tension (1.83) and isolation (1.78), demonstrating that not only patients, but also caregivers, need professional care and support. However, the domains of the Functional Independence Measure and the Caregiver Burden Scale were not significantly correlated (r=-0.1551 and p=0.4399) probably because of the new strategies acquired by caregivers, to overcome crises in the conditions of care. Conclusion In conclusion, this study made it possible to analyze the functional status of stroke survivors, and, specifically, of their caregivers, highlighting the need to develop a formal and informal caregiver support system.

Perfil funcional de pacientes com Esclerose Lateral Amiotrófica ao longo de 14 meses de tratamento fisioterapêutico / Functional profile of ALS patients over 14 months of physical therapy

Introdução: A Esclerose Lateral Amiotrófica (ELA) é uma doença degenerativa e fatal, que provoca diretamente alterações na funcionalidade dos indivíduos acometidos. A fisioterapia assume um papel importante na reabilitação dessa doença, utilizando instrumentos de avaliação que acompanham a performance funcional. Objetivo: Investigar as alterações funcionais decorrentes da ELA por 14 meses em indivíduos com e sem tratamento fisioterapêutico. Método: Estudo de coorte realizado entre 2010 e 2013, na cidade de Natal-RN. Foram incluídos no estudo pacientes em diversos estágios da ELA, com ausência de patologias associadas e que estivessem realizando acompanhamento no Centro de Referência em Doença do Neurônio Motor/ELA desde 2010. As características funcionais foram categorizadas a partir dos itens motores da Medida de Independência Funcional (MIF), da Escala de Severidade de Fadiga (FSS) e da Escala de Avaliação Funcional da ELA (ALSFRS). Os participantes foram divididos em dois grupos: os que tinham atendimento fisioterapêutico (AF) e os que não tinham atendimento (GC), tendo sido avaliados longitudinalmente em três momentos distintos (primeiro dia de avaliação, quatro meses após o primeiro dia e dez meses após a segunda avaliação). Foi realizado o teste não paramétrico de Friedman, considerando-se significância p<0,05. Resultados: Foi verificado significativo declínio funcional no GC (p<0,05) mensurado pela ALSFRS. O GC também apresentou declínio funcional maior que o grupo AF a partir dos escores da MIF, no entanto sem relevância estatística. Não houve diferença para os escores da FSS. Conclusão: A fisioterapia pode ser um grande coadjuvante no retardo de declínio funcional em pacientes com ELA. Ressalta-se também a importância de escalas específicas para ELA, considerando-se o caráter progressivo e heterogêneo da doença.

Introduction: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a degenerative and fatal disease that changes the individuals' functionality. Physical therapy plays an important role in ALS by using assessment tools to evaluate functional performance. Objective: To investigate functional changes caused by ALS through 14 months in individuals with and without physical therapy. Method: A cohort study conducted between 2010 and 2013 in the city of Natal-RN. The study included patients in various stages of ALS, with no associated pathologies and those who were being monitored by the Reference Center since 2010. Functional characteristics were categorized by applying the motor items of Functional Independence Measure (FIM), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) and ALS-Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS). Participants were divided into two groups, those who performed physical therapy (FA) and those who didn't (CG). They were longwise evaluated in 3 different moments (1st day of assessment, four months after the first assessment and 10 months after the second evaluation). Nonparametric Friedman test was performed, considering p <0.05. Results: It was observed a significant functional decline in the control group (p <0.05) measured by the ALSFRS. The CG also presented functional decline greater than the AF group from FIM scores, however without statistical significance. There was no difference in the scores of FSS. Conclusion: Physical therapy can be a great adjunct in functional decline retardation in patients with ALS. It also emphasizes the importance of specific scales for ALS, considering the disease progressive and heterogeneous nature.

Effect of a rehabilitation program using virtual reality for balance and functionality of chronic stroke patients / Efeito de um programa de reabilitação utilizando realidade virtual para o equilíbrio e funcionalidade de pacientes com AVC crônico / Efecto de un programa de rehabilitación utilizando la realidad virtual para el equilibrio y la funcionalidad de los pacientes con accidente cerebrovascular crónico

This study aimed to investigate the effect of a rehabilitation program using virtual reality (VR) in addition to conventional therapy for improvement of balance (BERG scale) and functional independence (FIM scale) in chronic stroke patients. Ten individuals, mean age of 51.4 (± 6.7 years), participated of eight 60-minute sessions comprising kinesiotherapy (15min), Nintendo Wii (30min) and Learning transfer (15min) exercises. After training, nonparametric statistical analysis showed significant improvement in total FIM (p= .01) and BERG scores (p= .00), and in some of their subitems: FIM - dressing lower body (p= .01), transfer to bathtub/shower (p= .02) and locomotion: stairs (p= .03); BERG - reaching forward with outstretched arm (p= .01), retrieving object from the floor (p= .04), turning 360º (p= .01), placing alternate foot on step (p≤ .01), standing with one foot in front (p= .01), and one leg stand (p= .03). These findings suggest a positive influence of virtual reality exercises adjunct to conventional therapy on rehabilitation of balance and functionality post stroke, and indicate the feasibility of the proposed VR-based rehabilitation program.

Este estudo objetivou investigar o efeito de um programa de reabilitação utilizando adição de Realidade Virtual (RV) à terapia convencional para melhora do equilíbrio (Escala de BERG) e independência funcional (escala MIF) de pacientes com AVC crônico. Dez indivíduos, idade média de 51,4 (± 6,7 anos), participaram de oito sessões de 60 minutos incluindo exercícios de cinesioterapia (15min), Nintendo Wii (30min) e transferência de aprendizagem (15min). Após o treinamento, análise estatística não paramétrica mostrou evolução significativa nos scores totais das escalas MIF (p= 0,01) e BERG (p= 0,00), e em alguns de seus subitens: MIF - vestir membros inferiores (p= 0,01), transferência para o chuveiro (p= 0,02) e locomoção: escadas (p= 0,03); BERG - alcance de braço (p= 0,01), coletar objeto no chão (p= 0,04), girar 360º (p= 0,01), pé degrau alternado (p ≤ 0,01), pé à frente (p= 0,01), e apoio unipodal (p= 0,03). Estes achados sugerem uma influência positiva de exercícios com realidade virtual adjuntos à terapia convencional na reabilitação do equilíbrio e funcionalidade pós AVC, e indicam a viabilidade do programa de reabilitação baseado em RV conforme proposto.

El objetivo de este estudio fue investigar el efecto de un programa de rehabilitación combinado de Realidad Virtual (RV) con terapia convencional en pacientes con accidente cerebrovascular crónico para la mejora del equilibrio (escala de BERG) y la independencia funcional (escala MIF). 10 sujetos, con una edad media de 51,4 (± 6,7 años), participaron en ocho sesiones rehabilitación de 60 minutos. Las sesiones incluyeron ejercicios de kinesioterapia (15min), Nintendo Wii (30min) y transferencia del aprendizaje (15min). Tras el entrenamiento, el análisis estadístico con test no paramétricos confirma una evolución significativa en las puntuaciones totales en las escalas MIF (p= 0,01) y BERG (p= 0,00) y en alguno apartados de las escalas: MIF - vestido de los miembros inferiores (p= 0,01), uso de la ducha (p= 0,02) y locomoción: escaleras (p= 0,03); BERG - alcance del brazo (p= 0,01), recuperar un objeto del suelo (p= 0,04), girar 360º (p= 0,01), pies en escalones alternos (p≤ 0,01), pie al frente (p= 0,01) y apoyo unipodal (p= 0,03). Estos resultados sugieren una influencia positiva de la VR como complemento a la terapia convencional en la rehabilitación del equilibrio y capacidad funcional tras un accidente cerebrovascular y confirman la viabilidad del programa combinado de rehabilitación propuesto.

Influência do tratamento por realidade virtual no equilíbrio de um paciente com paralisia cerebral / Influence of virtual reality treatment for balance in a patient with cerebral palsy

A melhora da capacidade de manutenção do equilíbrio é essencial para quem apresenta algum comprometimento motor, como a Paralisia Cerebral (PC). A realidade virtual (RV) já se destaca na reabilitação neurológica, porém com poucos estudos que abordem pacientes adultos com PC. Este estudo teve comoobjetivo investigar a influência da RV por meio de jogos de vídeo Wii no equilíbrio em posição ortostática de um paciente com PC Espástica Hemiparética. Foi utilizado o equipamento Nintendo® Wii, com o jogo Wii Fit Plus, em treinamentos que estimularam o equilíbrio látero-lateral e ântero-posterior do paciente. Osinstrumentos aplicados foram: Escala de Equilíbrio de Berg, Medida de Independência Funcional, além de 3 testes do Neurocom Balance Master: Limits of Stability, Tandem Walk e Step/Quick Turn. O protocolo de tratamento consistiu de 10 sessões, 30 minutos cada, duas vezes por semana por 38 dias. Ao final foi possível observar um aumento expressivo na pontuação de vários itens dos testesrealizados, implicando na melhora da capacidade de equilíbrio do paciente. Esses resultados sugerem a influência benéfica do Wii no que concerne o equilíbrio e capacidade funcional do portador de PC, tornando-o mais confiante para realizar suas atividades diárias.

The improvement of maintaining postural balances its essential i for those who have some motor impairment, such as Cerebral Palsy (CP). Virtual Reality (VR) is a feature that is standing out in neurological rehabilitation, but there are few studies regarding adult patients with CP. This study aimed to investigatethe infl uence of the VR through the Wii on balance in standing position from a patient with Spastic Hemiplegic CP. It was used the equipment Nintendo® Wii, with the game Wii Fit Plus, where the training chosen stimulated the latero-lateral and anterior-posterior patient’s balance. The instruments used were: Berg Balance Scale, Functional Independence Measure, and 3 Neurocom Balance Master Systems tests: Limits of Stability, Tandem Walk and Step/Quick Turn. The treatment protocol consisted of 10 sessions, with30 minutes each, performed twice a week for 38 days. At the end oftreatment, a significant increase in the scores of various test items performed was observed, which resulted in an improvement of patient’s balance. Results suggest a beneficial influence of the video game Wii regarding to postural balance and functional capacity of patients with PC, which become more confident to carry out their activities of daily living.