Use of standardised outcome measures among physiotherapists in French-speaking sub-Saharan Africa.

Background: The use of standardised assessment tools is a fundamental aspect of good clinical practice. However, to our knowledge, no study has documented the use of standardised assessment tools in physiotherapy in French-speaking sub-Saharan Africa. Objectives: Documenting the use of standardised outcome measures in physiotherapy in French-speaking sub-Saharan Africa. Method: Our cross-sectional survey used an online self-questionnaire on facilitators and barriers to the use of standardised outcome measures, distributed to physiotherapists in French-speaking sub-Saharan Africa. Results: A total of 241 physiotherapists working in French-speaking sub-Saharan Africa responded to the survey. The most represented countries were Benin (36.9%), Cameroon (14.1%), and Burkina Faso (10.8%). Although 99% of participants reported using standardised outcome measures, only 27% of the respondents used them systematically (all the time). The most reported facilitators included the recognition that standardised outcome measures help to determine whether treatment is effective, help to guide care, and improve communication with patients. The most significant barriers were the lack of time, unavailability of the standardised outcome measures, and non-sensitivity of measures to patients' cultural and ethnic concerns. There was a higher proportion of use in the middle age group (30-40) (p = 0.02) and a lower proportion of use in physiotherapists simultaneously working in public and private sectors (p = 0.05). Conclusion: Standardised outcome measures are still not widely used by physiotherapists in French-speaking sub-Saharan Africa. Clinical implications: The perceived barriers and facilitators could help to develop strategies to improve the systematic use of outcome measures in French-speaking sub-Saharan Africa.

Effect of Physiotherapy Treatment with Immersive Virtual Reality in Subjects with Stroke: A Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Many stroke survivors suffer from sensorimotor deficits, especially balance impairments. The purpose of this trial is to investigate whether the designed Immersive Virtual Reality training program is better in the short term (15 sessions) and in the medium term (30 sessions) than physiotherapy training with Bayouk, Boucher and Leroux exercises, with respect to static balance in sitting and standing, dynamic balance and quality of life in patients with balance impairment in stroke survivors. METHODS: This study is a randomized controlled trial with two treatment arms and evaluators blinded, and a functionality treatment group in combination with specific balance exercise training according to Bayouk, Boucher and Leroux (control group) or a balanced treatment using Immersive VR. The primary outcome will be static, Dynamic balance and gait measured by Bestest Assessment Score (BESTest), Berg Scale (BBS), Pass Scale (PASS) and Time Up and Go test (TUG). The secondary outcome will be the stroke-associated quality of life using the Stroke Quality of Life Scale (ECVI-38). CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study may add new insights into how to address balance using Immersive Virtual Reality after a stroke. If the new training approach proves effective, the results may provide insight into how to design more comprehensive protocols in the future for people with balance impairments after stroke.

Transcutaneous tibial nerve electrical stimulation versus vaginal electrical stimulation in women with overactive bladder syndrome: Is there a role for short-term interventions?

OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy of vaginal electrical stimulation (VS) versus transcutaneous tibial nerve electrical stimulation (TTNS) in women with overactive bladder syndrome (OAB). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Sixty-nine patients were randomized to receive 12 sessions of VS versus TTNS, or no treatment (control group-CG), over 6 weeks. OAB impact according to international consultation on incontinence questionnaire overactive bladder module (ICIQ-OAB), symptoms discomfort scores and voiding diaries were evaluated at baseline, 6 weeks and 1-month post-treatment. RESULTS: Both TTNS (mean difference = -4.2; 95% confidence interval [CI] = -6.5 to -1.9) and VS (-3.8; -6.0 to -1.6) were associated with significant reduction of ICIQ-OAB scores, as well as discomfort sensation (-3.9; -6.2 to -1,7; p < 0.001 for the TTNS and -2.8; -5.0 to -0.6; p = 0.01 for the VS) at 6 weeks when compared to CG (p < 0.001). ICIQ-OAB score remained low only in the TTNS group when compared to the CG (-3.6; -6.0 to -1.2/p = 0.00) 1 month after treatment. Discomfort symptoms improved in both active groups when compared to CG (TTNS [-3.2; -5.2 to -1.2; p < 0.001] and VS groups [-2.6; -4.7 to -0.6; p = 0.01]). No statistically differences were found in primary outcomes comparing TTNS and VS Secondary analysis showed significant improvement in urinary urgency incontinence episodes (UUI) in both TTNS and VS, but CG. UUI episodes were still reduced in the VS group and urgency in the TTNS group 1-month post-treatment. CONCLUSION: Short-term interventions (6 weeks) of TTNS and VS were both effective in treating women with OAB. TTNS provided residual effects at one-month postintervention on ICIQ-OAB score.

Eccentric exercise is more effective than other exercises in the treatment of mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy: systematic review and meta-analysis.

Achilles tendinopathy (AT) is one of the most frequent overuse injuries in the ankle. The evidence base for its conservative management AT continues to evolve, but there is still a gap in the evidence for the efficacy of any modality of treatment in high-quality studies. This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the efficacy of EE in improving pain and function in adult patients with mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy compared to other forms of exercise. A search was performed in PubMed, BIREME, SportDiscus, Cinahl, Web of Science and PEDro, in November 2022. The methodological quality was evaluated using the Risk of Bias 2 tool (RoB2) of the Cochrane collaboration, and the meta-analysis was performed using the Review Manager 5.1 program. 2024 articles were identified and eight fulfilled the inclusion criteria. RoB2 presented a final score with 62.5% of the studies presented "some concerns", and 37.5% (five and three articles, respectively) presenting "high risk" of bias. EE was effective for the managment of AT. The only variable for which a meta-analysis was possible was pain (five articles), analysed with the visual analogue scale/numerical visual scale. The mean difference (MD) in treatment effect using EE was - 1.21 (- 2.72 to - 0.30) with a 95% of confidence interval (CI), thus identifying a significant positive effect for the improvement of pain in patients with AT in whom EE was used. EE is effective in the management of AT. The meta-analysis shows the need for appropriately powered randomized controlled trials with better design, the use of standard outcome measures and well-planned protocols for conservative management of AT.Level of evidence: Level 1.Registration: CRD42018118016.

Predicting readiness for return to sport and performance after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction rehabilitation.

BACKGROUND: Determining readiness to return to sport after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is challenging. OBJECTIVES: To develop models to predict initial (directly after rehabilitation) and sustainable (one year after rehabilitation) return to sport and performance in individuals after ACL reconstruction. METHODS: We conducted a multicentre, prospective cohort study and included 208 participants. Potential predictors - demographics, pain, effusion, knee extension, muscle strength tests, jump tasks and three sport-specific questionnaires - were measured at the end of rehabilitation and 12 months post discharge from rehabilitation. Four prediction models were developed using backward logistic regression. All models were internally validated by bootstrapping. RESULTS: All 4 models shared 3 predictors: the participant's goal to return to their pre-injury level of sport, the participant's psychological readiness and ACL injury on the non-dominant leg. Another predictor for initial return to sport was no knee valgus, and, for sustainable return to sport, the single-leg side hop. Bootstrapping shrinkage factor was between 0.91 and 0.95, therefore the models' properties were similar before and after internal validation. The areas under the curve of the models ranged from 0.74 to 0.86. Nagelkerke's R2 varied from 0.23 to 0.43 and the Hosmer-Lemeshow test results varied from 2.7 (p = 0.95) to 8.2 (p = 0.41). CONCLUSION: Initial and sustainable return to sport and performance after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction rehabilitation can be easily predicted by the sport goal formulated by the individual, the individual's psychological readiness, and whether the affected leg is the dominant or non-dominant leg.

Immediate Effect of Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, and Neurofunctional Physiotherapy on Postural Control and Executive Function of Individuals with Parkinson's Disease.

Objective: To assess the immediate effect of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and neurofunctional physiotherapy (NPT) on postural control (PC) and executive function (EF) of individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD). Materials and Methods: Forty subjects from mild-to-moderate PD stages, with no cognitive impairment were submitted to one session of NPT, one session of AR, and one session of VR for 50 minutes each (7 days interval between them). PC was evaluated before and after each therapy, using force platform in bipedal positions: tandem with eyes opened (EO), eyes closed (EC), and with double-task and one-legged stance. We recorded the center of pressure area, and anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) displacement amplitude and velocity. EF was assessed by Trail Making Test (TMT). Results: PC improved (pre- vs. postintervention) after the three modalities: AP velocity decreased after AR (tandem EC 2.3 [1.7 to 2.9] vs. 2.1 [1.5 to 2.9], one-legged 3.0 [1.9 to 4.0] vs. 2.9 [1.9 to 3.6]), NPT (tandem EC 2.2 [1.7 to 3.1] vs. 2.1 [1.6 to 3.0]), and VR (tandem EO 1.9 [1.4 to 2.6] vs. 1.8 [1.4 to 2.4], tandem EC 2.3 [1.6 to 3.0] vs. 2.0 [1.5 to 2.8]); ML velocity decreased after AR in one-legged (P = 0.04); and permanence time in one-legged position increased in AR (Δ: 2.5 [-0.2 to 6.9]). There was also improvement in EF: TMT part A (TMTA)'s time decreased after AR (-9.3 [-15.7 to 1.9]), and TMT part B (TMTB)'s time decreased after the three modalities (ΔNPT: -7.7 [-29.4 to 0.0] vs. ΔAR: -4.6 [-34.6 to 0.6] vs. ΔVR: -4.9 [-28.2 to 0.9]). There were no differences between the modalities. Conclusion: The three treatment modalities improved PC and EF of subjects with PD. Moreover, AR and VR generated similar immediate effects to NPT on both outcomes in these patients. Trial registration: Brazilian Clinical Trial Registration: RBR-5r5dhf.

Efectividad de la fisioterapia para el dolor de espalda baja apoyada en recursos digitales / Effectiveness of physiotherapy for low back pain supported by digital resources

El número de intervenciones terapéuticas apoyadas en el uso de los recursos digitales aumenta cada día como vía para facilitar el acceso a cualquier tipo de atención sanitaria. Se realizó una revisión sistemática con el objetivo de analizar la efectividad (estado funcional, la intensidad del dolor y la adherencia al tratamiento) de la intervención de fisioterapia, apoyada en recursos digitales, frente a la fisioterapia convencional en pacientes adultos con dolor de espalda. Este estudio consultó las bases de datos científicas: PubMed, Biblioteca Virtual en Salud, Cochrane, Base de datos de Fisioterapia basada en la evidencia, Science Direct, Scopus, Episteminikos y Google Académico. La selección inicial de los estudios, la evaluación exhaustiva de los artículos completos y la extracción de las características necesarias para la investigación fueron realizadas por los seis investigadores y revisadas por dos revisores independientes. Se incluyeron 12 artículos (10 ensayos clínicos y dos estudios de cohorte). Los resultados de la revisión sistemática soportan el uso de los recursos digitales disponibles para el manejo de dolor de espalda baja, con una importante relación con la reducción de los niveles de dolor y la mejora en la funcionalidad. Es necesario realizar más estudios de alta calidad para evidenciar estos resultados, pues están por determinarse los criterios de la intervención(AU)

The number of therapeutic interventions supported by the use of digital resources is increasing every day as a way to facilitate access to any type of health care. A systematic review was carried out with the aim of analyzing the effectiveness (functional status, pain intensity and adherence to treatment) of the physiotherapy intervention, supported by digital resources, compared to conventional physiotherapy in adult patients with back pain. This study consulted the scientific databases such as PubMed, Virtual Health Library, Cochrane, Evidence-Based Physiotherapy Database, Science Direct, Scopus, Episteminikos, and Google Scholar. The initial selection of the studies, the exhaustive evaluation of the full articles and the extraction of the characteristics necessary for the investigation were carried out by the six research fellows and reviewed by two independent reviewers. Twelve articles were included (10 clinical trials and two cohort studies). The results of the systematic review support the use of available digital resources for the management of low back pain, with an important relationship with the reduction of pain levels and the improvement in functionality. It is necessary to carry out more high-quality studies to demonstrate these results, since the criteria for the intervention are yet to be determined(AU)

Ensayo clínico sobre el efecto de la terapia Vojta en personas con esclerosis multiple. Un estudio piloto / Clinical trial on the effect of Vojta therapy in people with multiple sclerosis. A pilot study

Introducción: La dificultad en la marcha, equilibrio y la presencia de la fatiga son las principales causas que generan mayor discapacidad en los pacientes con esclerosis múltiple (EM), siendo necesario un modelo de tratamiento orientado a su mejoría. Objetivo Este estudio trata de investigar los efectos de la terapia Vojta sobre la marcha, equilibrio y fatiga en personas con EM para determinar si es una técnica de elección como tratamiento. Material y métodos Estudio de tipo experimental, prospectivo y controlado. La muestra utilizada tras los criterios de inclusión y exclusión es de 14 usuarios (n = 14), pertenecientes a la asociación de esclerosis múltiple de Extremadura (EMEX). El grupo control recibe intervención de fisioterapia dos veces por semana y el grupo intervención además de la fisioterapia pactada, recibe dos sesiones de terapia Vojta por semana durante seis semanas y se valoran los resultados al termino de estas semanas y al mes de no intervención. Las variables estudiadas son marcha, equilibrio y fatiga. Resultados Al comparar la intervención de fisioterapia sobre fisioterapia más el uso de terapia Vojta, los resultados son estadísticamente significativos con mejoras tanto en la marcha (p = 0,018) como en equilibrio (p = 0,026), demostrando cómo el uso de la terapia Vojta mejora la marcha y el equilibrio en la muestra de representación. Tras el mes de no intervención con terapia Vojta las mejorías en el grupo intervención se mantienen de forma estadísticamente significativa (p = 0,05 en la marcha y p = 0,021 en el equilibrio). Conclusión En la muestra estudiada, el uso de la terapia Vojta, consigue una mejora tanto en la marcha como en el equilibrio de los pacientes con EM. Es necesario seguir investigando qué técnicas son las más eficaces dentro del tratamiento de la EM, con modelos de ensayo clínico aleatorizados y controlados cuyo tamaño de muestra sea más numeroso (AU)

Introduction: Difficulty in walking, balance and the presence of fatigue are the main causes that generate greater disability in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), requiring a treatment model aimed at improvement. Objective This study investigated the effects of Vojta therapy on walking, balance and fatigue in people with MS and to determine if it is a technique of choice in this type of users. Material and methods Experimental study, in the form of a prospective and controlled clinical study. The sample used after the inclusion and exclusion criteria is 14 users (n = 14), selected from the population currently available for treatment by the Multiple Sclerosis Association of Extremadura (EMEX). The control group received physiotherapy twice a week and the intervention group, in addition to the agreed physiotherapy, received 2 sessions of Vojta therapy per week for 6 weeks and the results was evaluated at the end of these weeks and at the end of the month of no intervention. The variables studied were gait, balance and fatigue. Results When comparing the physiotherapy intervention on physiotherapy plus the use of Vojta therapy, the results are statistically significant with improvements in both gait (p = 0.018) and balance (p = 0.026), establishing how the use of Vojta therapy improves gait and balance in the representation sample. After the month of non-intervention with Vojta therapy, the improvements in the intervention group remain statistically significant (p = 0.05 in gait and p = 0.021 in balance). Conclusión In the sample studied, the use of Vojta therapy achieves an improvement in both walking speed and balance in patients with MS. Further research is necessary on which techniques are most effective within the treatment of balance, gait and fatigue in MS, with randomised clinical trial models and more numerous representative samples (AU)

The Effects of Physiotherapy in the Treatment of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: To date, various forms of physiotherapy are used in the treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS). The effectiveness of physiotherapy for CuTS is inconclusive. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the effects of physiotherapy in the conservative treatment of CuTS. METHODS: The six databases were searched from December 2020 to March 2022. The inclusion criteria were randomised controlled trials, case series, and case reports that evaluate the effects of physiotherapy in the treatment of adult participants with diagnosis CuTS. A total of 11 studies met the eligibility criteria, capturing a total of 187 participants. RESULTS: In three types of papers, pain, muscle strength, and limitation of upper limb function were the most frequently assessed characteristics. Physiotherapy was most often based on manual therapy, neurodynamic techniques, and electrical modalities. One clinical trial rated the risk of bias "high" and the other two "some concerns". In case-series designs, five studies rated the risk of bias as "serious" and three as "moderate". Most of the studies showed a significant improvement in the clinical condition, also in the follow-up study. Only one clinical trial showed no therapeutic effect. CONCLUSION: There is no possibility of recommending the best method of physiotherapy in clinical practice for people with CuTS based on the results of this systematic review. More high-quality studies are required.

Electromyographic analysis of pelvic floor muscles during the execution of pelvic patterns of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation-concept: An observational study.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of pelvic patterns of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF-concept) on pelvic floor muscles (PFM) recruitment, as well as the electromyographic activity of muscles synergic to the pelvic floor in healthy women. METHODS: Observational study conducted with 31 women aged between 18 and 35 years, with mean age of 23.3 ± 3.2 (22.1-24.4). PFM activity was monitored by surface electromyography during the combination of isotonics technique of four pelvic patterns of PNF-concept (i.e., anterior elevation, posterior depression, anterior depression, and posterior elevation). The electromyographic signal was analyzed using root mean square amplitude. Two-way repeated measures analysis of variance was performed to analyze differences in PFM activity between types of contraction (i.e., concentric, isometric, and eccentric) and the four pelvic patterns. RESULTS: PFM activity did not differ among the four pelvic pattens. However, PFM activity was significantly different between the combination of isotonics technique and baseline, F(1.6, 48.2) = 71.5; p < 0.000, with a large effect size (partial ƞ² = 0.705). Concentric (22.4 µV ± 1.1), isometric (17.3 µV ± 0.6), and eccentric (15 µV ± 0.5) contractions of combination of isotonics technique increased PFM activity compared with baseline (10.8 µV ± 0.4) in all pelvic patterns. By analyzing the electromyographic activity of the muscles synergistic to the pelvic floor, there is effect of the interaction of the type of contraction, the pelvic pattern of the PNF concept, and the synergistic muscles on the myoelectric activity of the external anal sphincter, F(3.2, 96.5) = 5.6; p < 0.000, with a large magnitude of effect (partial ƞ² = 0.15). In the anterior elevation pattern, the muscles synergistic to the pelvic floor present synergy in phase with the PFM, and in the posterior patterns there was a decrease in the activity level of all synergistic muscles, without changing the activity level of the PFM. CONCLUSION: PFM activity did not differ among the four pelvic patterns of PNF-concept. Nonetheless, the combination of isotonics technique showed a significant effect on PFM compared with baseline, with greater PFM activity during concentric contraction. Pelvic patterns of PNF-concept may be used to increase PFM recruitment in young healthy women.

Efectos de la fisioterapia en asmáticos menores de 18 años

RESUMEN Introducción: El asma es el trastorno inflamatorio de las vías respiratorias inferiores más común durante la infancia. La acción de la fisioterapia en esta afección es reducir la frecuencia de los episodios y la intensidad de los síntomas. Objetivo: Analizar los efectos de las diferentes técnicas de fisioterapia que se utilizan en pacientes asmáticos entre 0 y 18 años, en cuanto a la calidad de vida, la función pulmonar y la reducción de los síntomas. Métodos: Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica durante el mes de enero de 2021 en Medline, Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, PEDro y Cinahl. En todas ellas se utilizó como término de búsqueda "asthma". En Medline y Pubmed se empleó el término "physical therapy modalities", mientras que en las demás se utilizó "physical therapy". Análisis e integración de la información: La búsqueda inicial incluía 110 resultados con 7 artículos válidos tras aplicar los criterios de elegibilidad. Los estudios seleccionados desarrollan diferentes intervenciones de fisioterapia en niños y adolescentes con asma para tratar esta enfermedad. Encontramos gran heterogeneidad en los tratamientos utilizados y fueron los ejercicios respiratorios la técnica más empleada. Conclusiones: Los procedimientos de fisioterapia producen efectos positivos en el control del asma en los pacientes asmáticos entre 0 y 18 años. La combinación de ejercicios respiratorios con otras técnicas como la sofrología o terapia salina en el tratamiento de esta afección tiene buenos resultados. Los ejercicios respiratorios mejoran la capacidad muscular respiratoria, disminuida en estos pacientes.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Asthma is the most common inflammatory disorder of the lower respiratory tract during childhood. The action of physiotherapy in this condition is to reduce the frequency of episodes and the intensity of symptoms. Objective: Analyze the effects of the different physiotherapy techniques used in asthmatic patients between 0 and 18 years old, in terms of quality of life, lung function and symptoms reduction. Methods: A bibliographic search was conducted during January 2021 in Medline, Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, PEDro and Cinahl. In all of them, "asthma" was used as a search term. Medline and Pubmed used the term "physical therapy modalities", while the others used "physical therapy". Analysis and integration of information: The initial search included 110 results with 7 valid articles after applying the eligibility criteria. The selected studies develop different physiotherapy interventions in children and adolescents with asthma to treat this disease. It was found great heterogeneity in the treatments used and breathing exercises were the most used technique. Conclusions: Physiotherapy procedures produce positive effects on asthma control in asthmatic patients between 0 and 18 years. Combining breathing exercises with other techniques such as sophrology or saline therapy in the treatment of this condition has good results. Breathing exercises improve respiratory muscle capacity, which is decreased in these patients.

Acute effects of myofascial reorganization on trapezius muscle oxygenation in individuals with nonspecific neck pain.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Nonspecific neck pain (NNP) is a common idiopathic disorder in the general population that affects the trapezius muscle (TM) and blood supply, thereby compromising the fascial system. Myofascial reorganization (MR) is a physical therapy technique that can influence the dynamics of local fluids reducing excessive muscle tension and capillary constriction, and increasing local blood flow. This study aimed to investigate whether MR improves peripheral muscle oxygenation. METHODS: This was a quasi-experimental study with an intentional non-probability sample. Fifty participants (women: 36, men: 14) with and without NNP were assigned to either the experimental group (EG: n = 25, with NNP, subjected to MR) or the control group (CG: without NNP, no MR intervention). TM oxygenation was measured using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) before and after a single intervention. All participants were evaluated and reassessed after 10 min. RESULTS: The results revealed that immediately after 10 min of MR, the EG exhibited an increase in the oxyhemoglobin level of the medium fibers of the TM (0.72 ± 1.47 vs. -0.14 ± 1.33 mmol/dL, p = 0.01). In addition, functional disability (CG: 5.48 ± 5.58%/EG: 21.12 ± 7.73%) and neck pain were measured using the neck disability index. The pain pressure threshold (CG: 70.49 ± 32.29 kgf/EG: 51.08 ± 27.65 kgf) and pain intensity (CG: 0.76 ± 1.56/EG: 3.28 ± 2.35) were also measured. CONCLUSION: The findings indicate that application of MR for 10 min increases the tissue oxyhemoglobin level in the TM of the group with NNP compared to the CG without NNP.

Physiotherapeutic approaches to treat anal incontinence in women after obstetric trauma

Introduction: Anal incontinence is defined as the loss of voluntary control of fecal matter or gases with a recurrence period longer than 3 months in individuals aged ≥ 4 years; it has a female predominance. Among the treatment modalities is pelvic physiotherapy, the second line of treatment, which promotes the reeducation, coordination, and strengthening of the muscles of the pelvic floor to enable patients to return to their regular activities of daily living. Objective: To perform a systematic review on the physiotherapeutic treatments used in women between the ages of 18 and 65 years with a diagnosis of anal incontinence. Material and methods Clinical studies written in Portuguese, Spanish and English were searched on the the following databases: Science Direct, Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (Medline) via PubMed, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), and Scopus. Results: Of the 998 articles found, only 4 studies met the inclusion criteria of the present systematic review. The physiotherapeutic approaches to treat women with anal incontinence are biofeedback, Kegel exercises, electrostimulation, and training of the pelvic floor muscles. The average score on the PEDro scale was of 6.25, which indicates that the methodological quality was good. Conclusion: Although pelvic physiotherapy is effective to treat anal incontinence, it must be promoted through the performance of evidence-based scientific research. (AU)

Effects of myofascial reorganization associated with kinesiotherapy on chronic pain and functionality of breast cancer survivors: development of a study protocol / Efeitos da reorganização miofascial associada à cinesioterapia na dor crônica e funcionalidade de sobreviventes de câncer de mama: desenvolvimento de um protocolo de estudo

Abstract Introduction: Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women. Treatments can lead to complications modifying upper limbs movement patterns and generating pain and functionality loss. Kinesiotherapy and myofascial reorganization (MR) have shown positive effects reducing chronic pain and improving upper limbs function. We hypothesize that these techniques can maximize results and reduce treatment time in clinical practice. Objective: To develop a study protocol to verify whether MR associated with kinesiotherapy is more effective than isolated kinesiotherapy to treat chronic pain and upper limb dysfunction in breast cancer survivors. Methods: Participants will be divided into two groups: intervention group (myofascial reorganization + kinesiotherapy) and sham group (traditional massage + kinesiotherapy). Six treatment sessions (once a week) and three-time assessment will occur. Instruments for assessing pain and functionality will be Visual Analogue Scale, Body Pain Diagram, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire, and goniometry. Statistical analysis will be conducted based on intention-to-treat analysis. To analyze the difference of means between groups, we will use T-Student or U Mann-Whitney test. Repeated measures ANOVA will be used to check treatments effects. Significance level for all tests will be 5%. Conclusion: We believe that the developed study protocol will show that MR associated with kinesiotherapy improve chronic pain and upper limbs functionality of breast cancer survivors.

Resumo Introdução: O câncer de mama é o tipo de câncer mais comum entre as mulheres. Os tratamentos podem levar a complicações, modificando os padrões de movimento dos membros superiores e gerando dor e perda de funcionalidade. A cinesioterapia e a reorganização miofascial (RM) têm demonstrado efeitos positivos na redução da dor crônica e na melhora da função dos membros superiores. A hipótese do presente estudo é que essas técnicas podem maximizar os resultados e reduzir o tempo de tratamento na prática clínica. Objetivo: Desenvolver um protocolo para verificar se a RM associada à cinesioterapia é mais eficaz do que a cinesioterapia isolada no tratamento da dor crônica e disfunção do membro superior em sobreviventes de câncer de mama. Métodos: As participantes serão divididas em dois grupos: grupo intervenção (reorganização miofascial + cinesioterapia) e grupo sham (massagem tradicional + cinesioterapia). Serão realizadas seis sessões de tratamento (uma vez por semana) e três avaliações. Os instrumentos de avaliação da dor e da funcionalidade serão a Escala Visual Analógica, o Diagrama de Dor Corporal, o Questionário de Deficiências do Braço, Ombro e Mão e a goniometria. A análise estatística será realizada com base na análise de intenção de tratar. Para analisar a diferença de médias entre os grupos, serão utilizados o teste T-Student ou U Mann-Whitney. ANOVA de medidas repetidas será utilizada para verificar os efeitos dos tratamentos. O nível de significância para todos os testes será de 5%. Conclusão: Espera-se que a RM associada à cinesioterapia melhore a dor crônica e a funcionalidade dos membros superiores de sobreviventes de câncer de mama.

Effects of Immersive and Non-Immersive Virtual Reality on the Static and Dynamic Balance of Stroke Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

(1) Background: The development of new technologies means that the use of virtual reality is increasingly being implemented in rehabilitative approaches for adult stroke patients. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the existing scientific evidence regarding the application of immersive and non-immersive virtual reality in patients following cerebrovascular incidents and their efficacy in achieving dynamic and static balance. (2) Data sources: An electronic search of the databases Medline, Cochrane Library, PEDro, Scopus, and Scielo from January 2010 to December 2020 was carried out using the terms physiotherapy, physical therapy, virtual reality, immersive virtual reality, non-immersive virtual reality, stroke, balance, static balance, and dynamic balance. SELECTION OF STUDIES: Randomized controlled trials in patients older than 18 developed with an adult population (>18 years old) with balance disorders as a consequence of suffering a stroke in the previous six months before therapeutic intervention, including exercises harnessing virtual reality in their interventions and evaluations of balance and published in English or Spanish, were included. A total of two hundred twenty-seven articles were found, ten of which were included for review and of these, nine were included in the subsequent meta-analysis. (3) Data extraction: Two authors selected the studies and extracted their characteristics (participants, interventions, and validation instruments) and results. The methodological quality of the studies was evaluated using the PEDro scale, and the risk of bias was determined using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. DATA SYNTHESIS: Of the selected studies, three did not show significant improvements and seven showed significant improvements in the intervention groups in relation to the variables. (4) Conclusions: Non-immersive virtual reality combined with conventional rehabilitation could be considered as a therapeutic option.

Efecto de las técnicas de inducción miofascial en la reducción del dolor en pacientes con dolor miofascial pélvico crónico / Effect of myofascial induction techniques on pain reduction in patients with myofascial chronic pelvic pain

Introducción y objetivo El dolor miofascial pélvico crónico es una patología con una elevada prevalencia, y de etiología muy diversa, al igual que su tratamiento. No se ha establecido un protocolo de tratamiento, y hasta el momento, se recomienda un abordaje multidisciplinar. El objetivo es evaluar el efecto de un protocolo basado en 10 sesiones de técnicas de inducción miofascial (TIM) en pacientes con dolor miofascial pélvico crónico (DMPC). Material y métodos Se realizó un estudio cuasi experimental (antes-después), con una intervención basada en TIM adaptadas a la localización del dolor de los pacientes. Se evaluó la intensidad del dolor mediante la escala visual analógica (EVA) y la calidad de vida, tanto física como mental, mediante el cuestionario de salud SF-12v2. Para valorar el efecto de las TIM, se compararon los resultados preintervención-postintervención mediante la prueba t de Student para datos apareados y el test no paramétrico de Wilcoxon. Resultados Se incluyeron 50 pacientes en el estudio (27 mujeres y 23 hombres), con una edad media de 44,8 años (desviación estándar [DE] 12,1) y una duración media de los síntomas de 58,3 meses (DE 60,5). El análisis por protocolo mostró que la intensidad del dolor disminuyó en 3,99 puntos al final de la intervención y la calidad de vida mejoró en los sumatorios físico y mental en 5,45 y 5,87 puntos, respectivamente (p < 0,05). El 86,7% de los pacientes completó el protocolo de tratamiento. Conclusiones En un grupo de pacientes con dolor miofascial pélvico crónico, las TIM parecen tener un efecto beneficioso significativo, reduciendo el dolor y mejorando la calidad de vida (AU)

Introduction and objective Myofascial Chronic Pelvic Pain (MCPP) is a pathology with a high prevalence, and an aetiology as diverse is its treatment. A treatment protocol has not yet been established and a multidisciplinary approach is currently recommended. The aim is to evaluate the effect of a Myofascial Induction Techniques (MIT) protocol based on 10 sessions in patients with Myofascial Chronic Pelvic Pain. Material and methods A quasi-experimental study (before-after) was carried out, with an intervention based on MIT adapted to the location of the pain. Pain intensity was evaluated using the Visual Analogue Scale and quality of life, both physical and mental, was assessed using the SF-12v2 Health Survey questionnaire. To assess the effect of MIT, the pre-intervention and post-intervention results were compared using the Student's t test for paired data, and the non-parametric Wilcoxon test. Results 50 patients were included in the study (27 women and 23 men), with a mean age of 44.8 years (SD 12.1), and a mean duration of symptoms of 58.3 months (SD 60.5). The protocol analysis showed that pain intensity decreased by 3.99 points at the end of the intervention and quality of life improved in the physical and mental scores by 5.45 and 5.87 points, respectively (p < 0.05). Of the patients, 86.7% completed the treatment protocol. Conclusions In a group of patients with myofascial chronic pelvic pain, MIT appear to have a significant beneficial effect, reducing pain and improving quality of life (AU)

Does sensorimotor training influence neuromuscular responses, balance, and quality of life in diabetics without a history of diabetic distal polyneuropathy?

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of supervised and home sensorimotor training on static postural balance (SPB), quality of life (QL), and neuromuscular responses of Type 2 Diabetics (DM-2). DESIGN: Randomized controlled blind study with DM-2 patients, between 45 and 64 years old, of both sexes, divided into 3 groups: Control Group - CG (n = 27), Home Training Group - HTG (n = 27), and Supervised Training Group - STG (n = 26). The subjects were evaluated before and at the end of 3 months of treatment, with a four-week follow-up. The intervention was held twice a week, for 45 min, divided into three phases: warm-up, sensorimotor training, and cool-down. The primary outcome was SPB, using the force platform. Secondary outcome: questionnaires and clinical measures related to diabetic foot and knee flexor-extensors using isokinetic dynamometry. RESULTS: In the baseline, the characteristics were similar between groups and between times. Tactile and vibratory sensitivity demonstrated the absence of symptoms of peripheral neuropathy in diabetic patients. In the intra-group comparison, there was a significant increase in the classification without symptoms of diabetic distal polyneuropathy in the HTG and STG groups (p < 0.05) and there were no significant effects on other clinical outcomes and QL and SPB, muscle strength, and sense of knee joint position. CONCLUSION: The intervention showed no improvement in SPB, QL, and other clinical outcomes of DM-2 patients. Thus, no differences were found between the groups, considering that the patients did not present clinical characteristics of diabetic distal polyneuropathy.

Musculoskeletal Changes in Hemophilia Patients Subsequent to COVID-19 Lockdown.

(1) Background. The lockdown period due to the COVID-19 pandemic has drastically decreased levels of physical activity in the population. Hemophilia is characterized by hemarthrosis that leads to chronic, progressive and degenerative joint deterioration. (2) Methods. This observational study recruited 27 patients with hemophilia and arthropathy. Knee, ankle and elbow joints were assessed. The frequency of clinical hemarthrosis, pain intensity, pressure pain threshold, and joint ROM were evaluated. (3) Results. Following lockdown, a significant deterioration of joint condition, perceived joint pain and range of motion was noted in all joints. There were no changes in the frequency of knee hemarthrosis, while the frequency of ankle hemarthrosis significantly reduced. However, the frequency of elbow hemarthrosis increased. Depending on the degree of hemophilia severity, there were changes in pressure pain threshold in the elbow and in pain intensity and range of motion of the ankle joint. According to the type of treatment, i.e., prophylaxis vs. on-demand treatment, there were differences in the joint condition in elbows and the plantar flexion movement of the ankle. There were no differences in the knee joint based on the severity of the disease, the type of treatment or the development of inhibitors (4). Conclusions. Because of the COVID-19 lockdown, the musculoskeletal status of patients with hemophilia deteriorated. Joint condition, perceived pain, and range of motion were significantly affected. The frequency of clinical hemarthrosis did not increase during this period. A more active therapeutic model could prevent rapid deterioration in patients with hemophilic arthropathy during prolonged sedentary periods.