Strength of knee flexors of the paretic limb as an important determinant of functional status in post-stroke rehabilitation.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the study was to assess the effectiveness of the multi-modal exercise program (MMEP) in patients after stroke, and to identify muscles that are the best predictors of functional performance and changes in functional status in a 3-week rehabilitation program. METHODS: Thirty-one post-stroke patients (60.6±12.7 years) participating in a 3-week MMEP took part in the study. Measurements of extensor and flexor strength of the knee (Fext, Fflex) were done. Functional performance was measured using Timed Up & Go test (TUG), 6-Minute Walk Test (6-MWT) and Tinetti Test. RESULTS: The rehabilitation program improved all the results of functional tests, as well as the values of strength in the patients. Both baseline and post-rehabilitation functional status was associated with knee flexor and extensor muscle strength of paretic but not of non-paretic limbs. At baseline examination muscle strength difference between both Fflexkg-1 and Fextkg-1 had an influence on functional status. After rehabilitation the effect of muscle strength difference on functional status was not evident for Fextkg-1 and, interestingly, even more prominent for Fflexkg-1. CONCLUSIONS: MMEP can effectively increase muscle strength and functional capacity in post-stroke patients. Knee flexor muscle strength of the paretic limb and the knee flexor difference between the limbs is the best predictor of functional performance in stroke survivors.

The influence of NDT-Bobath and PNF methods on the field support and total path length measure foot pressure (COP) in patients after stroke.

In stroke patients, the NDT - (Bobath - Neurodevelopmental Treatment) and PNF (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation) methods are used to achieve the main objective of rehabilitation, which aims at the restoration of maximum patient independence in the shortest possible period of time (especially the balance of the body). The aim of the study is to evaluate the effect of the NDT-Bobath and PNF methods on the field support and total path length measure foot pressure (COP) in patients after stroke. The study included 72 patients aged from 20 to 69 years after ischemic stroke with Hemiparesis. The patients were divided into 4 groups by a simple randomization. The criteria for this division were: the body side (right or left) affected by paresis and the applied rehabilitation methods. All the patients were applied the recommended kinesitherapeutic method (randomized), 35 therapy sessions, every day for a period of six weeks. Before initiation of therapy and after 6 weeks was measured the total area of the support and path length (COP (Center Of Pressure) measure foot pressure) using stabilometer platform - alpha. The results were statistically analyzed. After treatment studied traits decreased in all groups. The greatest improvement was obtained in groups with NDT-Bobath therapy. NDT-Bobath method for improving the balance of the body is a more effective method of treatment in comparison with of the PNF method. In stroke patients, the effectiveness of NDT-Bobath method does not depend on hand paresis.

A comparative analysis of analgesic efficacy of ultrasound and shock wave therapy in the treatment of patients with inflammation of the attachment of the plantar fascia in the course of calcaneal spurs.

INTRODUCTION: Troublesome heel spur is a nuisance condition that affects people of all ages. Treatment of patients with heel spur is a difficult and lengthy process requiring patience from both the patient and the therapist. Sometimes, the only and ultimate method of treatment is surgery, although spurs tend to recur. The aim of the study is a comparative analysis of the analgesic efficacy of ultrasound and shock wave therapy in patients with heel spur. The cause of pain in the course of calcaneal spur is inflammation of the attachment of the plantar fascia, which plays an important role in the process of walking and is seriously strained during different types of movement. Treatment of patients is a difficult and lengthy process. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was conducted on a group of 47 patients of both sexes, aged 38-60 years (mean 51.3) with a plantar calcaneal spur confirmed by X-ray images. Patients were randomly assigned into two groups using a simple randomization: Group 1-ultrasound therapy group (a series of ten treatments) and Group 2-the radial shock wave group (series of four treatments). In all patients, pain intensity was assessed three times: before therapy, after the first and second weeks of treatment. A version of Laitinen's pain assessment questionnaire and the Huskisson visual analogue scale (VAS) were used. Of the group of studied respondents, 47 patients of both sexes and aged 38-60 years (mean age 51.3) with a heel spur (confirmed on X-rays), who had pain for at least a month, were randomly included in the study. The patients were classified into: Group 1-US therapeutic group (a series of ten treatments) and Group 2-with RSWT (a series of five treatments). Pain intensity was assessed three times: before the treatment, after the first and second week of the treatment with the application of the VAS and the Leitinen Pain Questionnaire. RESULTS: However, a decrease in pain sensation was reported in all test intervals, and its largest decrease occurred in both groups within 1 week of beginning treatment. More dynamic change in this period was recorded in Group 1. CONCLUSION: The conclusion is that while ultrasound and shock wave therapy show significant analgesic efficacy in patients with heel spur, fewer shock wave therapy sessions are needed than ultrasound sessions for effective relief, suggesting that the shock wave therapy has greater analgesic efficacy. A similar analgesic effect was achieved with the administration of a smaller number of shock wave treatments and a full series of ultrasound treatments.

[The effect of solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) on induction of skin cancers]. / Wplyw slonecznego promieniowania ultrafioletowego (UV) na powstawanie raków skóry.

Ultraviolet radiation is a physical mutagenic and cancerogenic factor. About 95% of ultraviolet A (UVA) (320-400 nm) and 5% of UVB (280-320 nm) reach the Earth's surface. Melanin is a natural skin protective factor against UV radiation. Skin cancers associated with long-term exposure to UV radiation are: basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM). The high risk of BCC development is related to acute and repeated exposure to UV causing sunburn. Molecular studies of BBC demonstrated disorders in sonic hedgehog (SHH) cell signaling regulation pathway, associated with the suppressor protein patched homolog 1 gene (PTCH1) mutations. The risk of the BCC development is related to the polymorphism of melanokortin-1 receptor gene (MC1R). Tumor P53 gene mutations observed in BCC cells has been classified as secondary genetic changes. In SCC cells UV-induced mutations were mostly related to P53 gene. Increased expression of cyclooxigenase- 2 gene (COX-2) plays a significant role in the development of SCC. Other pathogenetic factors include intensification of the synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-1 α (IL-1α), IL-1ß and IL-6). Currently, the role of UVB has been recognized in the pathogenesis of CMM. In CMM cells the following gene mutations were noted: cyclindependent kinase inhibitor 2A INK4A (p16INK4A), cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4), Ras, phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) and proto-oncogene B-Raf (BRAF). The BRAF gene mutations were observed in ~50% of CMM cases. Mutations of P53 gene are not characteristic of CMM cells. Med Pr 2016;67(2):255-266.

Influence of the surface electrostimulation controlled by muscle contraction on the bioelectric muscle activity and restoration of the hand function in cerebral stroke patients.

BACKGROUND: Impaired limb mobility is the most troublesome condition in patients after cerebral stroke. The application of the electrode-glove might reduce dysfunctions in patients treated due to stroke. OBJECTIVE: The electrode-glove use in rehabilitation is investigated. The study was conducted on 54 patients aged 28 - 72 (the mean age 54.3 ± 10.3) with hemiparesis who had suffered from cerebral stroke. The patients from Group 1 were applied bipolar stimulation of forearm muscles (flexors and extensors of the wrist joint and hand) with the use of two flat electrodes of the same size. With regards to Group 2, in the study used an electrode-glove. METHODS: The excitation threshold was determined once a week with the use of the EMG. SECONDARY OUTCOMES: The evaluation of the electromyographic bioelectric activity of flexor and extensor muscles in the forearm, of the functional mobility of the hand according to the Brunnström test and of the functional mobility of the hand according to the seven-graded task Frenchay scale. RESULTS: The authors of the study observed a much greater improvement in the function of the hand in Group 2, where the mean value increased by 2.1 points. With regards to Group 1, the mean value increased by 1 point and the differences of the results in the studied groups after the therapy were statistically significant (p = 2.830). CONCLUSIONS: The electrical stimulation method controlled/triggered by muscle contractions is an effective method of normalization of muscle tension in the forearm and hand as well as restoration of the hand function in patients with cerebral stroke.

Association of muscle strength, power, and optimal shortening velocity with functional abilities of women with chronic osteoarthritis participating in a multi-modal exercise program.

We assessed the relative association of quadriceps muscle strength and power as well as optimal shortening velocity (υ(opt)) to physical functioning in 28 women aged 50-87 years with chronic osteoarthritis participating in a three-week multimodal exercise program. Quadriceps muscle strength, power, υ(opt), and functional performance using the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) scale, Timed Up & Go (TUG) test, Tinetti test, and 6-Minute Walking Test (6-MWT) were assessed pre- and postrehabilitation. With rehabilitation, patients improved the values of strength, power, and the results of all functional tests. Both at baseline and postrehabilitation, functional status was more strongly related to power and υ(opt) than to strength. Functional gains obtained with rehabilitation were not related to changes in power or υ(opt), and only very modestly related to changes in strength. Future studies should assess the benefits and feasibility of power- and velocity-oriented training in patients with osteoarthritis.

[Evaluation of effectiveness of local cryotherapy in patients with post-stroke spasticity]. / Ocena skutecznosci krioterapii miejscowej u osób ze spastycznoscia po udarze mózgu.

INTRODUCTION: Spasticity is a source of functional limitations in patients. It leads to weakening of muscles, reduced mobility, muscle fatigue and irreversible changes in tissues. The aim of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of local cryotherapy in patients with post-stroke spasticity. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was conducted in 56 patients with post-stroke spasticity. They were divided into two groups (Group 1 was administered cryotherapy and kinesitherapy and Group 2- kinesitherapy only). The researchers assessed the level of spasticity according to the Modified Ashworth Scale as well as functions of lower limbs, upper limbs and hands according to the Brunnström Scale twice (before and after the therapy). The findings were statistically analyzed. RESULTS: In the treatment groups decreased muscle tone. An improvement of the efficiency of locomotion and hand in performing activities of daily living. More favorable results were observed in group 1. CONCLUSIONS: Local cryotherapy combined with kinesitherapy appeared to be more effective in treating spasticity rather than kinesitherapy alone. A decrease in spasticity and an improvement of the limb function indicate a stabilization of muscular tension in patients with disorders upper motor neuron.

The influence of the low-frequency magnetic fields of different parameters on the secretion of cortisol in men.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this paper is to test the influence of long-term application of the low-frequency magnetic fields in magnetotherapy and magnetostimulation on cortisol secretion in men. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients were divided into three groups: 16 men underwent magnetotherapy and 20 men (divided into two groups) underwent magnetostimulation. Magnetotherapy - 2 mT induction, 40 Hz, bipolar square wave, was applied for 20 min to lumbar area. Magnetostimulation (Viofor Jaroszyk, Paluszak, Sieron (JPS) system, M2P2 program) was applied to 10 patients for 12 min each day. The third group (10 patients) underwent magnetostimulation (Viofor JPS system, M3P3) for 12 min each day using a different machine. All groups had 15 rounds of applications at approximately 10:00 a.m. with intermissions on the weekends. Blood serum was taken four times in a 24-hour period, before applications, the day after applications and a month later. Chemiluminescence micromethod was used to indicate hormone concentrations. Data was statistically analyzed with the analysis of variance (ANOVA) method. RESULTS: The statistically significant gains in the circadian cortisol profile at 4:00 p.m., be- fore and after application, were observed as a decrease in concentration during magnetotherapy. In magnetostimulation, with the M2P2 program, a significant increase in the cortisol concentration was observed in circadian profile at 12:00 p.m. one month after the last application. After magnetostimulation with the M3P3 program, a significant increase in concentration at 6:00 a.m. and a decrease in concentration at 12:00 p.m. were observed one month later. Statistically significant difference was demonstrated in the participants after the application of magnetotherapy and magnetostimulation with M3P3 program compared to the men submitted to magnetostimulation, with M2P2 program, at 4:00 p.m. after 15 applications. CONCLUSIONS: Biological hysteresis one month after magnetostimulation suggests long-term influence on the hypothalamo-hypophysial axis. The circadian curves of cortisol secretion a day after magnetotherapy and magnetostimulation with M3P3 program compared to magnetostimulation with M2P2 progam differs nearly by 100%, which proves that they show varied influence on cortisol secretion in men. All changes in the hormone concentration did not exceed the physiological standards of cortisol secretion, which suggests a regulating influence of magnetic fields on cortisol concentration rather than a strong stressogenic impact of magnetostimulation.

The evaluation of dorsal asymmetry in children and adolescents: ten years' follow-up.

INTRODUCTION: The study is a retrospective and prospective analysis of the results of examinations of children for the occurrence of dorsal asymmetry carried out ten years ago and repeated recently. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A group of 100 children and adolescents aged 4-16 years, including 58 girls and 42 boys, was examined initially in 1997 and then re-examined after 10 years (at the age of 14-26). The clinical assessment (Adam's test) was performed each time by the same examiner, the 1st author of this study, using the same methodology and in the same conditions. A Rippstein plurimeter was used for the examination, with differences of 2 degrees or more being regarded as a sign of asymmetry. The prevalence of particular types of dorsal asymmetry was calculated separately for girls and boys, and these results were compared statistically using the squared Chi test. RESULTS: The prevalence of back asymmetry had increased by the time of the second examination, especially the type Th-L sin, the difference being statistically significant (p<0.005). The prevalence of type Th dex- L sin asymmetry had also increased, but the difference was not statistically significant. A statistically significant decrease in prevalence was found for the type Th dex. The prevalence of double-arch and single-arch asymmetry was found to have increased in both genders. The difference between first and second examinations was statistically significant for double-arch asymmetry (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: 1. The prevalence of slight dorsal asymmetries increased as the children grew older. 2. The location of dorsal asymmetry often changes after puberty. 3. The 2nd examination showed significant asymmetry indicating scoliosis among some children and adolescents with minor asymmetry observed in the 1st examination.

[Polish adaptation and validation of the Visual Function Questionnaire (VFQ-25) in multiple sclerosis patients]. / Polska adaptacja i analiza walidacyjna kwestionariusza funkcji wzrokowych (visual function questionnaire VFQ-25) u chorych ze stwardnieniem rozsianym.

INTRODUCTION: Visual disturbances very often accompany of multiple sclerosis (MS) and affect patients' quality of life (QoL). There have been no tools for investigation of the effect of visual disturbances on QoL in MS patients available in Poland. The aim of this study was validation analysis of Polish adaptation of Visual Function Questionnaire VFQ-25. MATERIAL AND METHODS: VFQ-25 published by Mangione in 2001, consists of 25 questions concerning general well-being, assessment of vision, social functioning, mental health, and self-sufficiency. According to the applicable translation principles, the original English version was adapted into Polish, and validation analysis of the convergent validity as well internal reliability was carried out. 108 randomly selected patients, diagnosed with MS according to McDonald's criteria were included in this study: 63 women and 45 men aged on the average 37.8 +/- 9.2 years, with mean disease duration of 11.2 +/- 5.6 years. All patients underwent assessment of disability based on Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). Besides the analyzed VFQ-25 questionnaire, the patients completed also the Functional Assessment of Multiple Sclerosis (FAMS) questionnaire and SF-36 Health Survey. RESULTS: The internal consistency of the questionnaire was satisfactory (Cronbach's alpha reached 0.95). The accuracy of the scale was confirmed by positive correlations of the results between VFQ-25 and EDSS, FAMS and SF-36. CONCLUSIONS: Statistical analysis has demonstrated that the Polish version of VFQ-25 is a valuable tool for investigation of the effect of visual disturbances on QoL in MS patients.

[Analgesic efficacy of magnetoledotherapy in patients with low back pain syndromes]. / Ocena skutecznosci przeciwbólowej magnetoledoterapii u chorych z zespolami bólowymi kregoslupa ledzwiowo-krzyzowego.

INTRODUCTION: Low back pain syndromes most often occur due to overloading of the musculoskeletal system. The cause is a frequent, improper lifting of heavy objects, most commonly by those working physically, with repetitive movements of bending and straightening of the trunk (turning and bending with load). This problem affects not only adults but also children and adolescents. There is a growing interest in new forms of analgesic therapy nowadays, especially in those that exhibit synergistic therapeutic effects. The aim of this work is to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of magnetoledotherapy in patients with lumbar--sacrum spinal pain syndromes caused by joints degenerative changes. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The examination was carried out in 66 patients of both sexes aged 30 to 76 (average 54.7 +/- 13.8) with low back pain syndrome caused by spinal degenerative changes. The patients were divided into three groups according to the applied analgesic therapy (magnetoledotherapy, magnetostimulation, TENS currents). Level of pain has been evaluated four times in all patients--before the start of therapy and after 5, 10 and 15 applications with the use of the modified Laitinen Questionnaire and Visual-Analoque Scale (VAS). RESULTS: Post therapy levels of pain in the studied patients decreased significantly. According to Laitinen questionnaire, the greatest improvement was observed in the group treated with magnetoledotherapy and TENS currents and the smallest improvement was observed in the group treated with magnetostimulation. CONCLUSIONS: 1. Magnetoledotherapy shows significant analgesic efficacy in patients with low back pain syndrome and shows no side effects. 2. Concurrent application of both the infrared radiation generated by LED's and magnetostimulation synergistically reinforces analgesic effect in patients with low back pain syndrome, especially in level of pain and frequency of its occurrence, which results in the increase of movement activity and decrease in administration of analgesics.

[Fatigue syndrome in chronic neurological disorders]. / Zespól zmeczenia w przewleklych chorobach neurologicznych.

Fatigue without coincident depression may accompany many neurological disorders, including multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, motor neuron disease, stroke and post-polio syndrome, and is frequently reported by patients as a predominant complaint. The pathophysiology of fatigue is unknown. The role of various mechanisms has been suggested, including the effect of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-1beta and IL-6) on glutaminergic transmission, hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis dysfunction, disturbances of astroglia metabolism and decreased levels of the neurotransmitters noradrenaline and serotonin. The diagnosis of fatigue syndrome is based on exclusion of depression and additional organic conditions (anaemia, cardiovascular disorders, kidney diseases or hypothyroidism). The treatment of fatigue syndrome is complex. Physical activity, rehabilitation, psychotherapy and avoidance of factors which may increase fatigue, such as fever, anxiety, depression, pain, sleep disturbances, as well as some drugs like opioids and benzodiazepines, are important. Pharmacological treatment leads to slight improvement. Amantadine, modafinil and pemoline are administered to such patients.

[Effect of low frequency magnetic fields used in magnetotherapy and magnetostimulation on the rehabilitation results of patients after ischemic stroke]. / Wplyw pól magnetycznych niskiej czestotliwosci stosowanych w magnetoterapii i magnetostymulacji na wyniki rehabilitacji chorych po niedokrwiennych udarach mózgu.

New methods of rehabilitation should be introduced in order to reduce disability resulting from stroke. During the twelve months of follow-up, effect of low frequency magnetic field (If mf) on the course of patient rehabilitation following ischemic stroke was evaluated on in-patient (acute and subacute period of the stroke) and outpatient (chronic period) basis with the use of Mathew et al's and Barthel's scales. Lf mf (20 procedures of 20-min. duration) of magnetotherapy (I group--placebo, II--group 5.6 mT induction, 10 Hz frequency and sinusoidal shape, III group--2.8 mT induction, 10 Hz frequency and sinusoidal shape) and magnetostimulation (IV group--M1P1 program of Viofor JPS system, 16 min a day) was applied as early as in the subacute period of the stroke (1-8 weeks). The data obtained were presented in the form of percentage changes in the pain levels as well as in the form of the arithmetical mean and standard deviation (X +/- SD). The ANOVA test was used for a statistical evaluation of the data obtained in the tests. The results obtained indicate beneficial effects of If mf in the III and IV group of patients in the Barthel's scale and Mathew scale, which were observed during the examination 12 months after the stroke. The recommended doses of If mf seem to be adequate to obtain therapeutic effects and may be used in the early period of rehabilitation. The neurological and functional improvement persisted for a long-period of the out-patient treatment, which was confirmed during the control examination 12 months after the ischemic stroke. As no adverse effects (which could be attributed to If mf), were observed, this method of physical therapy can be recognized as a safe one and worth making popular in clinical practice.

Assessment of muscle strength of hip joints in children with idiopathic scoliosis.

BACKGROUND: The choice of an appropriate approach to the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis is considerably complicated owing to the lack of a clear-cut aetiology of this condition. Idiopathic scoliosis impairs the body's biomechanical balance and adversely affects body statics. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The muscle torques of the flexor and extensor muscles of the hip joints were assessed in 123 children (96 girls and 27 boys) aged from 8 to 16 with the I degrees scoliosis. Statistically significant differences (p>0.05) were revealed. RESULTS: The primary lumbar scoliosis was to the left in 109 patients (Group 1) and to the right in 14 patients (Group 2). All children participated in a 6-month exercise programme to strengthen the weakened muscle groups. Torque measurements were performed twice: immediately after the child joined the rehabilitation programme and on completion of the programme. The strength of the weakened muscles was seen to increase to a statistically non-significant level (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: 1. Exercises strengthening weakened muscles of the hip joint improve the posture of scoliotic children and can be helpful in treating idiopathic scoliosis. 2. Differences in the strength of the flexors and extensors of the hop joint impair body statics and may constitute one of the causes of idiopathic scoliosis in children.

The influence of chronic exposure to low frequency pulsating magnetic fields on concentrations of FSH, LH, prolactin, testosterone and estradiol in men with back pain.

OBJECTIVES: There is widespread public concern that electromagnetic fields might be hazardous. However, studies on the biological effects of magnetic fields (MFs) have not always been consistent. Influence of extremely-low frequency MFs used in physiotherapy on endocrine system was rarely examined. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the concentrations of some pituitary (FSH, LH, prolactin) and sex (testosterone, estradiol) hormones in men with back pain exposed to magnetic fields applied during magnetotherapy or magnetostimulation over the period of three weeks. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was performed on 20 men aged 28-62 years (mean+/-SEM: 46.4+/-2.0 years) suffering from chronic low back pain who underwent magnetotherapy (10 patients, mean age+/-SEM: 48.4 years, range: 28-62 years) or subjected to magnetostimulation (10 patients, mean age+/-SEM: 44.3 years, range: 34-52 years) for 15 days (daily at 10:00 h, with weekend breaks). Blood samples were collected at 08:00 before magnetic field application, one day and one month following the application. Concentrations of hormones were measured by micromethod of chemiluminescence. RESULTS: Both magnetotherapy and magnetostimulation lowered levels of prolactin. The levels of LH decreased significantly one month after magnetotherapy in comparison with the baseline whereas following magnetostimulation slight but insignificant increase was observed. Estradiol concentrations were significantly lower one day and one month following magnetosimulation in comparison to the baseline and did not change after magnetotherapy. No statistically significant changes were observed in levels of FSH and testosterone after either magnetotherapy or magnetosimulation at any time examined. CONCLUSION: Magnetic fields applied in physiotherapy exert no or very subtle effect on concentrations of FSH, LH, prolactin, testosterone, and estradiol in men.

[Evaluation of magnetostimulation effectiveness in physiotherapy--questionnaire research]. / Ocena skutecznosci magnetostymulacji w fizjoterapii (badania ankietowe).

The anonymous questionnaires which had been filled in by patients were analysed after the end of the magnetostimulation applied with Viofor JPS. The applicator in form of a mattress with maximum induction 45 microT was used. In the analysed group of 1742 patients, 5% of patients suffered from rheumatoid arthritis, 16% from central nervous system illnesses, 9% from injuries, 1.5% from allergies, 2% from infections, 5.4% from vessel illnesses, 1% from skin illnesses. 0.5% of the patients used monotherapy. 8% suffered from radicular symptoms, 30.7% from pseudoradicular symptoms, 17.4% from arthrosis, and 3.4% patients suffered from migraines and headaches. The complete abatement of complaints or the improvement was noted in 95.5% of patients, no improvement in 4.3% and 0.2% of patients became worse--82% of deteriorated patients were the ones that suffered from infections. The strongest analgesic action and the most frequent abatement were noted in patients after injuries and patients with headaches.

[Influence of steroid therapy local injection of steroidal in the region of the stylomastoid foramen and physiotherapy on the recovery of stapedial reflex in patients with facial nerve paralysis]. / Wplyw leczenia steroidami stosowanymi miejscowo do otworu rylcowo-sutkowatego oraz fizjoterapii na powrót odruchu strzemiaczkowego u chorych z obwodowym porazeniem nerwu twarzowego.

There are much more publications which informates about positive effects of advisability propose steroid's cure in patients with facial nerve palsy. The aim of the studies was to evaluate the influence of steroidal and physical treatment on the recovery of stapedial reflex and of functions of the damaged nerve. The studies were performed on 37 patients with palsy of facial nerve. Taking into account the stapedial reflex (before the beginning of the treatment) and local injection of steroidal in the region of the stylomastoid foramen, the patients were divided into two groups: I group--21 persons with lacking stapedial reflex, who were not given steroid, II group--16 persons with lacking stapedial reflex who received steroid. Evaluation of results of treatment was performed by means of the Pietruski, House and Brackmann scales, registration of stapedial reflex and accommodation coefficient. The results indicate that local steroid in palsy facial nerve is the treatment of choice in cases of intratemporal branches injury (lack of stapedial reflex) and shortens of duration of stapedial reflex and the nerve function recovery.

[Advances in diagnosis of facial nerve paralysis: pathophysiology and clinical symptoms]. / Postepy w rozpoznawaniu porazen nerwu twarzowego--patofizjologia i objawy kliniczne.

Facial palsy is important clinical and social problem because of frequently appearance and to cause facial symmetry troubles which are visible for surroundings. Clinical picture of facial palsy, independently of its reason, contains a lot of symptoms depending on degree and place of nerve damage. The most visible and unpleasant for sick person unpleasant symptoms are abolition (in palsy) or considerably handicap (in paresis) function of facial countenance muscles which are hard to endure for patients. In special accidents patients demand psychology consultation and antidepression treatment to modify imagination about role of appearance in shape social relation. In place of damage nerve for particular attention deserve objective treatment the stapedius muscle reflex. It allows to objective estimation the facial nerve damage. Regress in paresis of this nerve decides on treatment. This treatment has a prognostic sense too--return of the stapedius muscle reflex announces return the function of damage nerve.

[Influence of pulsating magnetic field used in magnet therapy and magnet stimulation on cortisol secretion in human]. / Wplyw impulsowych pól magnetycznych stosowanych w magnetoterapii i magnetostymulacji na wydzielanie kortyzolu u ludzi.

The aim of our study was to test the influence of magnetic fields during magnetotherapy and magnetostimulation over a longer period of time (like in physiotherapy) on cortisol secretion in humans. The study population was divided into two groups: magnetotherapy group (16 men) and magnetostimulation group (10 men). Magnetotherapy in the form of magnetic field induction (2.9 microT; frequency--40 Hz; square wave; bipolar; Magnetronic MF--10 apparatus) was applied for 20 min to the lumbar area in patients with chronic low back pain. Magnetostimulation (Viofor JPS system; M2P2 program; induction--25-80 microT; frequency--200 Hz, complex saw-like shape with a plateau halfway the height of the wave; bipolar) was applied every day for 12 min in patients with the same health problem. In both groups, the procedures were repeated 15 times (about 10:00 a.m.) with weekend breaks. Serum samples were collected at 6:00, 12:00, 16:00 and 24:00 and estimated by the micromethod of chemiluminescence (DPC Poland; Cat. No. LKC01). The circadian profile of cortisol was determined prior to the application, a day and a month after application. The data were analyzed statistically, using paired and unpaired Student's test. Magnetotherapy affects the cortisol secretion in the circadian profile by decreasing its level at 16:00 a day after 15 applications, whereas magnetostimulation by increasing its level at 12:00 a month after 15 applications, which may suggest its long-term effect on hypothalamic-pituitary axis. The comparison of the results indicated that a day after magnetotherapy and magnetostimulation, the circadian curves of cortisol secretion differed significantly by about 100%. All hormone oscillations did not exceed the physiological norms of the circadian cortisol level, not reaching the level so high as in an intense stress. This suggests rather their controlling effect on the cortisol level than their significant stressogenic nature.

[Biological effects produced by the influence of low frequency electromagnetic fields on hormone secretion]. / Skutki biologiczne oddzialywania pól (elektro)magnetycznych niskiej czestotliwosci wywierane poprzez ich wplyw na wydzielanie hormonów.

The article discusses the role of (electro)magnetic fields in hormone secretion in humans and animals. The best known hormone whose secretion may be disturbed by magnetic field is melatonin. The level of serotonin positively reacts to the presence of magnetic field in the environment-its level is raised. The effect of magnetic fields on other hormones has not as yet been described. It seems necessary to continue experimental and epidemiological research on living organisms (their hormone secretion) to standardise the norms of exposure with the aim of diagnostic and therapeutic application.