1. Comparison of the Effects of Massage and Cryotherapy on the Knee Extensor Muscles Fatigue and Isokinetic Parameters in Soccer Players

Mohsen Razeghi; Hassan Nouri

Volume 2, Issue 1 , Winter 2015, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  Background:Fatigue can cause a significant effect on the mechanics of complex motor skills and reduce physical and mental efficiency. One of the common ways to reduce fatigue is passive ...  Read More Background:Fatigue can cause a significant effect on the mechanics of complex motor skills and reduce physical and mental efficiency. One of the common ways to reduce fatigue is passive recovering or using massage and cryotherapy after exercise. The present study aimed to compare the effects of massage and cryotherapy on muscles fatigue and isokinetic parameters.Methods:This study was conducted on54 healthy athletes aged 20-30 years who were randomly divided into three groups: cooling (ice therapy), massage, and control (resting). Each of the volunteers was evaluated in two sessions. The first session was to familiarize the participants with isokinetic contraction. The second session started with a brief warm up subsequently, using Biodex Isokinetic System Average Peak Torque (APTQ), Average Power (AP), and Total Work (TW) were measured. Then, the fatigue protocol was applied. Afterwards, interventions were performed for 15 minutes. After the intervention, isokinetic parameters were evaluated again. Also, perceived fatigue and Fatigue Index (FI) were recorded before and after the intervention.Results:APTQ, AP, and TW significantlyincreased in massage and cryotherapy groupsafter the intervention, while perceived fatigue and FI decreased significantly in both conditions (P<0.05). In the control group, however, no significant differences were observed in APTQ, AP, and TW before and after the intervention (P>0.05), but perceived fatigue and FI decreased significantly (P<0.05). Moreover, isokinetic variables (APTQ, AP, and TW) were higher in the massage group compared to cryotherapy and control groups (P<0.05), but such a difference was not observed between the massage and cryotherapy groups (P>0.05).Conclusion: Massage and cryotherapy could increase isokinetic parameters and decrease FI and perceived fatigue. Therefore, massage and cryotherapy have been more effective than rest as a strategy to return to normal state and no significant difference was observed between these two groups.

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2. Center-Based Care and Language Development: A Pilot Study on 6-15 Month-Old Persian-Speaking Children

Majid Oryadi Zanjani; Maryam Vahab; Javad Rasouli; Somaye Ghasemi; Atefeh Yazdizade

Volume 3, Issue 1 , Winter 2016, , Pages 1-4

Abstract

  Background: Although it is usually recommended that children begin care after their second or third year, some employed parents have to enroll their children in childcare from under ...  Read More Background: Although it is usually recommended that children begin care after their second or third year, some employed parents have to enroll their children in childcare from under the age of 6 months in Iran. Regardless of when children enter care parents and experts are concern about how childcare affects children’s language, social and intellectual development. The aim of this study was to assess the language development in the 6-15 month-old Persian-speaking children enrolled in center-based care.  Methods: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study. The sample size comprised of 13 Persian-speaking 6-15 month-old children who were recruited through consecutive sampling from the Namazi childcare center in Shiraz, Iran. The child’s development was assessed by using two assessment tools including the Ages and Stages Questionnaire and the Rossetti Infant-Toddler Language Scale.  Descriptive statistics were employed in order to presentation of the findings.Results: Overlay, the results showed that all children could successfully achieve the nonverbal and verbal communication and interaction behaviors.Conclusion: Based on the findings, the quality of childcare centers and the quality of parents-child interaction may be two crucial factors in children’s language development. Also, the Rossetti Infant-Toddler Language Scale is a useful assessment tool for Persian-speaking children.  

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3. The Effectiveness of Limited Dynamic Wrist Splints on the Symptoms, Function, and Strength of Women with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Controlled Trial Study

seyedeh marjan jaladat; mehdi abdolvahab; behrouz attarbashi moghadam; alireza ashraf; Mahmoud Jalili; Ahmadreza Baghestani

Volume 4, Issue 1 , Winter 2017, , Pages 1-5

Abstract

  Background: Splinting is the most common conservative method of treatingpatients with mild and moderate Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). The aim ofthis study was to determine the effectiveness ...  Read More Background: Splinting is the most common conservative method of treatingpatients with mild and moderate Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). The aim ofthis study was to determine the effectiveness of the limited dynamic wrist splinton the symptoms, function, and strength of women with CTS. In this controlledtrial study, the subjects wore a splint of a new design called the “limited dynamicwrist splint”, which allowed the wrist motion in the range (between 15-degreeflexion and 15-degree extension) that exerts minimum pressure on the mediannerve and prevents extra pressure on the nerve by limiting the range of motionsout of the allowed range.Methods: In this study, 24 women diagnosed with mild to moderate CTS wereinitially evaluated on the basis of the Boston questionnaire, the dexterity testof the Purdue pegboard, grip and pinch strength, distal sensory latency, andsensory nerve conduction velocity. The subjects were randomly divided intotwo groups, control and treatment. Both groups received routine rehabilitationtreatment for six weeks. The treatment group received the limited dynamic wristsplint for about six to eight hours a day. After six weeks, the initial examinationswere repeated. The SPSS-16, independent t, and paired t-tests were used for dataanalysis.Results: All the variables in the treatment and the control groups showedimprovement. The function test of the Boston questionnaire, the Purduepegboard test, and the pinch strength were significantly improved in thetreatment group. The “severity of the symptoms” test of the Boston questionnaireand the pinch strength in the control group showed a statistically significantdifference (P < 0.05). In a comparison of the two groups, the function test of theBoston questionnaire showed a significant difference.Conclusion: This study showed that the use of the limited dynamic wrist splintfor about six weeks for six to eight hours a day could have a significant effect onthe function, dexterity, and the pinch strength of patients with CTS. Not onlycan the patients receive treatment by this method, but they can also performtheir daily activities to some extent.

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4. 4th National Student Congress on New-Horizons of Rehabilitation Sciences, March 6 to 8, 2015, Shiraz, Iran

Student Research Committee, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences

Volume 2, Supplementary , Autumn 2015, , Pages 1-27

Abstract

  4th National Student Congress on New-Horizons of Rehabilitation Sciences, March 6 to 8, 2015, Shiraz, Iran The Conference is organized by:Student Research Committee, School of Rehabilitation ...  Read More 4th National Student Congress on New-Horizons of Rehabilitation Sciences, March 6 to 8, 2015, Shiraz, Iran The Conference is organized by:Student Research Committee, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences and Health care Congress President: Dr Mohammad Hadi Imanieh, President of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences and Health careCommittee President: Dr Mohsen Razeghi, President of Rehabilitation Sciences School, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences and Health careCongress Secretary: Kazem Hesampour, MSc Student of Physiotherapy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences and Health careScientific Secretary: Soha Bervis, PhD Candidate of Physiotherapy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences and Health care Executive Secretary: Parivash Nazari, MSc Student of Physiotherapy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences and Health care 

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5. Which aspects of Child Development are Related to the Home Environment? : A Narrative Review

Somayeh Kavousipor

Volume 6, Issue 1 , March 2019, , Pages 1-5

Abstract

  Background: The home environment is the first context where children have experience, so in the present review article, important aspects of the child development that are influenced ...  Read More Background: The home environment is the first context where children have experience, so in the present review article, important aspects of the child development that are influenced by home environment are analyzed, and common questionnaires were used to evaluate them. Review of literature:  The method applied in the present study was a narrative review. Initially, a variety of different sources were employed to find the related literature. The sources included;  web-based browsers of Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest & Google Scholar, OT Seeker,  Magiran and Iranmedex with keywords combination of “Development”, “child”, “home environment”, “Measurement ”&“Questionnaire” and word related to  Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) adaptation. A total of 13 articles were included to be studied in detail in order to find the impact of home environment on the child developmental skills, including cognition, movement, emotion and interaction with regard to common home environment measurement. Discussion: All aspects of the home environment such as; physical space, toys, play, and learning materials, and child-adult interaction relationship stimulate motor, emotional and cognitive development and are influential on child developmental skills. The home environment is dependent on family culture, ethnicity, social economic status, and poverty. Conclusion:  Most common questionnaires   (The Home Observation for Measurement of the Environment (HOME) in domains of cognitive and social development and the Affordance in the Home Environment for Motor Development (AHEMD) in the domain of motor development) were set up to evaluate the home environment.

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6. The effects of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis on the factors affecting the respiratory system and its function (A Systematic Review)

Ali Yalfani; Parvane Bazipoor

Volume 7, Issue 1 , March 2020, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  Background: Scoliosis is defined as a three-dimensional deformity of the spine associated with lateral deviation from the normal vertical direction, and mostly with rotation of the ...  Read More Background: Scoliosis is defined as a three-dimensional deformity of the spine associated with lateral deviation from the normal vertical direction, and mostly with rotation of the vertebras. Although some studies have been performed on the effect of scoliosis on the respiratory system, there are still some ambiguities at issue and some results are contradictory. The aim of the present systematic review study was to help clarify the effect of scoliosis on the respiratory system and the factors affecting respiration. Methods: An electronic search was done in databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Ebsco, and Science Direct. The quality of papers was assessed using Black and Down instrument. The following keywords were used in search engines; adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, respiratory function, respiratory problem, respiratory system, ventilatory function, ventilatory problem, ventilatory system, chest wall motion, respiratory muscle, and exercise capacity. Papers in English language, subjects being over the age of 10 and suffering from adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, and no other abnormalities were among the inclusion criteria, while suffering any underlying disease was an exclusion criterion. Results: Based on the keywords used, 76 papers were found; based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 7 papers were approved. Five papers had dealt with pulmonary and respiratory factors, two investigating respiratory muscles, 2 examined exercise capacity, and 2 tested the chest wall motions. The score of reporting, external validity, internal validity bias, internal validity - confounding (selection bias), and power varied within 5-7, 0-2, 2-4, 0-3, and 2-5, respectively. Conclusion: Based on studies carried out so far, scoliosis affects respiratory function including respiratory volumes, chest wall motions, strength of respiratory muscles, respiratory patterns, and respiratory function during exercise. Although some studies show contradictory results, relying on the results of the majority of studies, it can be stated that these effects had been mentioned as negative effects on the mentioned factors. The reasons stated for the results include mechanical insufficiency and muscular disorders, which arise from developmental and systemic disorders associated with scoliosis itself. The relationships between respiratory volumes, strength of respiratory muscles, and chest wall motions are still unclear. Since only limited studies have been performed in this regard, these results still warrant further investigation.

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7. A Biomechanical Analysis of the Contributing Factors to Increases in Vertical Jump Height Following Exercise with Weighted Vests

Behdad Tahayori; Arnold G. Nelson; David M. Koceja

Volume 1, Issue 1 , Winter 2014, , Pages 2-7

Abstract

  Background and objectives: It has been shown that a bout of jumping exercise with weighted vests increases the subsequent countermovement jump height. However, it is not clear whether ...  Read More Background and objectives: It has been shown that a bout of jumping exercise with weighted vests increases the subsequent countermovement jump height. However, it is not clear whether the improvement in jump height is due to the enhancement of joint power or due to other mechanisms such as neural adaptations.Methods: To investigate this dichotomy, we tested the acute neuromechanical changes following a preloaded exercise protocol (3 sets of 5 consecutive CMJs with a weighed vest equal to 15% of the body mass of the participant) that successfully increased the subsequent jump height. On average, jump height increased 1.52 cm (5.4%) after this exercise as compared to CMJs prior to the exercise protocol.Results: A significant decrease in the time from the start of the movement to take off (pre-take off duration) was observed. This decrease was exclusively caused by exercising with a weighted vest, since such a change was not observed in the control sessions in which participants exercised without the weighted vest. Our data showed that jumpers leave the ground with some degrees of knee flexion and upon exercising with weighted vest this amount of flexion increased and hence an increase in the jump height. However, no significant changes in peak values of lower limb joint angle, velocity, moment and power were observed.Conclusion: It is suggested that for designing weighted vest exercise protocols with the aim of increasing jump height, the idea of modifying the timing of the movement should be considered as a cause of the enhancement. This novel idea adds another mechanism for increasing the jump height following weighted vest exercise, along with the general belief of muscle potentiation..

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8. Comparison of muscle recruitment patterns during sit to stand and stand to sit in “movement system impairment” subgroups of low back pain and healthy women

Neda Orakifar; Mohammad Jafar Shaterzadeh-Yazdi; Reza Salehi; Mohammad Mehravar; Neda Namnik

Volume 5, Issue 1 , Winter 2018, , Pages 5-12

Abstract

  Background: While various studies have examined motor control differences between subjects with and without low back pain (LBP), only a few have investigated the muscle recruitment ...  Read More Background: While various studies have examined motor control differences between subjects with and without low back pain (LBP), only a few have investigated the muscle recruitment pattern in classified LBP patients during functional activity. The aim of this study was to investigate the firing pattern of the main muscles involved in sit-to-stand (STD) and stand-to-sit (STS) tasks in two prevalent LBP subgroups based on movement system impairment (MSI) classification. Methods: A total of 37 women between 18 and 50 years of age voluntarily participated in this cross-sectional study. They were divided into three groups (15 healthy, 15 lumbar extension rotation syndrome (LERS), and seven lumbar flexion rotation syndrome (LFRS)). Surface electromyography was recorded bilaterally from the trunk stabilizer muscles—i.e. the internal oblique (IO), lumbar erector spine (ES), and hip mobilizer muscles—and the medial (MH) and lateral (LH) hamstring muscles during STD and STS tasks. The variations in EMG onset muscle timing and asymmetry in side-to-side muscle timing were measured. Results: The firing sequence during the STD task showed no significant difference among groups. However, in the healthy and LFR groups the trunk stabilizer muscles were activated before the hip mobilizer muscles, and in the LERS group an insignificant delay was shown in the onset of the ES activity. There was no significant difference of bilateral muscle timing during STD. In the STS task no consistent order of pattern was found even in the healthy group. The bilateral muscle timing of IO (mean difference, -427.00; P=0.021) and ES (mean difference, 1964.57; P=0.000) had significant difference in the LFRS group during STS. Conclusion: The cumulative effects of recruitment pattern impairment may contribute to continuing the cycle of lumbar movement impairments and subsequent persistence of LBP.

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9. Differences in Cervical Extensor Muscles Thickness on Subjects with Normal Head Posture and Forward Head Posture: An Ultrasonography Study

Fereshte Goodarzi; Noureddin Karimi; Leila Rahnama; Leila Khodakarim

Volume 2, Issue 2 , Spring 2015, , Pages 23-26

Abstract

   Background: Forward head posture (FHP) is recognized as a common postural disorder of modern societies. Increase in anterior cervical convexity and anterior displacement of the line ...  Read More  Background: Forward head posture (FHP) is recognized as a common postural disorder of modern societies. Increase in anterior cervical convexity and anterior displacement of the line of gravity of head in individuals with FHP is assumed to result in altered moment arms and muscle activity on cervical spine. Measurement of muscle thickness seems to be an appropriate index for muscle activity. This study was aimed to compare cervical extensor muscle thickness in individuals with normal head posture with those suffering from FHP.Methods: Twenty volunteers with FHP and 20 matched controls (11 females and 9 males in each group) participated in this cross-sectional study. The thickness of cervical extensor muscles including multifidus, semispinalis cervicis, semispinalis capitis, splenius capitis and upper trapezius were measured using ultrasonography at the level of forth cervical vertebrae at rest.Results: No significant differences of thickness of cervical extensor muscles were observed between the two groups (p<0.05) at of rest.Conclusion: The results of this study showed that the thickness of cervical extensor muscles at the level of forth cervical vertebrae in individuals with FHP did not change in comparison with normal head posture at rest. Further studies are recommended to evaluate extensor muscles at other levels of cervical spine.

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10. Comparison of the Effects of Two Fatigue Protocols on Triceps Surae Musculotendinoes Stiffness in Healthy Students

Zahra Rojhani Shirazi; Marzieh Saadat

Volume 1, Issue 2 , Spring 2014, , Pages 25-29

Abstract

  Background: Previous studies have investigated different effects of muscle fatigue on body systems. However, there are no reports on the effect of fatigue protocol and its level on ...  Read More Background: Previous studies have investigated different effects of muscle fatigue on body systems. However, there are no reports on the effect of fatigue protocol and its level on musculotendinous stiffness (MTS) of the tricep-surae. This study was designed to compare the effects of 2 levels of submaximal fatigue contraction on MTS of triceps-surae.Methods: Twenty female students by simple randomized sampling participated in this study. Triceps-surae musculotendinous stiffness was measured before and after two fatigue protocols. The fatigue protocols were comprised of a continuous isometric voluntary plantar flexion contraction (25% and 70% maximum voluntary contraction) until the contraction could no longer be maintained. The free oscillation technique was used to measure MTS of the triceps-surae. A Kistler force plate was used to measure the force applied.Results: Musculotendinous stiffness decreased immediately after both fatigue protocols (P value ≤ 0.05). Data analysis with RM ANOVA showed that there was no significant difference between the two protocols with respect to the decrease in MTS stiffness of the triceps-surae. Moreover, the decrease in stiffness did not change for 15 min after the two fatigue protocols (P>0.05).Conclusion: Musculotendinous stiffness of the triceps-surae decreased significantly after both fatigue protocols, and there was no significant difference between the two protocols with respect to change in triceps-surae musculotendinous stiffness. This result may be due to similar type of contraction in protocols, the learning effect, or the effect of central fatigue.

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11. Effects of Short Term and Long Term Usage of Patellar Kinesio Taping on Patellar Position in Women with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Mahboobe Banejad; Alireza Sarmadi; Firooz Maddadi

Volume 3, Issue 2 , Spring 2016, , Pages 25-28

Abstract

  Background: Patellar mal tracking is responsible for pain and disability in patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). Patellar kinesio taping may have different effects on short and long ...  Read More Background: Patellar mal tracking is responsible for pain and disability in patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). Patellar kinesio taping may have different effects on short and long term usage. The aim of this study is to compare the effect of short term and long term patellar kinesio taping in patellar position on women with patellofemoral pain syndrome using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).Methods: Thirty women with a mean age of 32.2 ± 6.18 years with one year history of PFPS participated in this study. All participants provided written, informed consent. MRI was taken three times from participant’s patellofemoral joint: 1) Without taping, 2) Immediately after taping in the first session, 3) After 10 sessions of taping. The effectiveness of the interventions was determined by measuring the patellofemoral congruence angle (PFCA), lateral patellofemoral angle (LPFA), and lateral patellar displacement (LPD) on MRI images.Results: Statistical analysis showed that utilizing kinesio taping in short time and after 10 sessions, significantly changed PFCA and LPD – except for PFCA after 10 sessions. Moreover, taping didn’t have any significant effect to alter LPFA.Conclusion: In short term, mechanical effects of kinesio taping influenced the patella position but in long term, neuromuscular effects may be more effective than each one separately to alter patella position.

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12. Comparing the Normal Range and Changes Process of Lumbar Curve in Male and Female Students Aged 10 to 18 Years

Morteza Sadeghi; Gholamali Ghasemi

Volume 4, Issue 2 , Spring 2017, , Pages 31-35

Abstract

  Background: In recent years, several studies on the body posture have been doneat schools, most of which have shown a high prevalence of varying abnormalityamong students. The aim of ...  Read More Background: In recent years, several studies on the body posture have been doneat schools, most of which have shown a high prevalence of varying abnormalityamong students. The aim of this study was to investigate the normal range andchanges process of lumbar curve in students, both girls and boys, in the agegroup of 10 to 18 years.Methods: A total number of 1800 students (male and female), in the age group of10 to 18 years were selected to participate in the present study. The student sampleswere chosen from the different cities of the Isfahan province in a randomizedand clustered manner. Each age category included 100 male and female studentseach. The flexible ruler was used to measure the lumbar curve angle. The factorialANOVA method, in SPPS16, was used for data analysis with α=0.05.Results: The data analysis showed that the age changes factor and gender factorhave a significant effect on lumbar curve changes in the level of P<0.05. However,the interaction between gender and age was not significant (P>0.05). This meansthat the changes process is similar in both gender groups.Conclusion: The lumbar curve angle is generally higher in girls. Moreover, thisangle increases in both genders as age increases to 18 years. The extent of thelumbar curve exceeds the normal limit in girls after 13 years of age with the onsetof puberty, which means that girls in this age group need additional attentionfrom the concerned authorities in order to prevent spinal abnormalities.

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13. Comparison of Shoulder Joint Functional Range of Motion in Overhead Athletes with and without Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: A cross sectional study

Aboozar Saadatian; Mansour Sahebozamani; Mohammad Taghi Amiri Khorasani; Mohammad Taghi Karimi; Mohammad Sadeghi

Volume 5, Issue 2 , Spring 2018, , Pages 31-35

Abstract

  Background: The shoulder complex is known as one of the most mobile joints of body whose frequently use for overhead movements causes changes in the shoulder joint range of motion. ...  Read More Background: The shoulder complex is known as one of the most mobile joints of body whose frequently use for overhead movements causes changes in the shoulder joint range of motion. Sub-acromial impingement syndrome (SIS) is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain affecting shoulder joint range of motion. The purpose of this study was to compare shoulder joint functional range of motion in overhead athletes with and without Shoulder impingement syndrome. Methods: The current research is a cross-sectional study, in which 63 male overhead athletes (30 subjects without impingement syndrome (age: 28.12±6.13 y/o) and 33 subjects with impingement syndrome (age: 26.83±4.81 y/o)) threw a handball ball three times, while seating on a chair. A 6-camera Vicon Motion Capture system recorded the markers placed on the upper limb and trunk during each of the throwing conditions. To evaluate the range of motion, a whole-body kinematic model was used in OpenSim software, with inverse kinematics used to obtain adequate joint angles (shoulder joint abduction as well as internal and external rotation). Results: The results indicated that the external rotation and abduction range of motion were greater in the athletes with shoulder impingement syndrome in comparison to those without impingement syndrome (P <0/001 and p= 0.04, respectively), while their internal rotation range of motion were more limited than that of athletes without impingement syndrome (p<0/001). Conclusion: Overhead athletes with impingement syndrome have greater glenohumeral external rotation and abduction and less internal rotation in the throwing shoulder in comparison to athletes without impingement syndrome. These findings can be used to screen and identify high-risk athletes and help the therapists to make more appropriate therapeutic plans in order to assist the injured athlete to return to sports as soon as possible.

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14. Impaired Ipsilateral Upper Extremity Dexterity and Its Relationship with Disability in Post-Stroke Right Hemiparesis

Maryam Parsaee; Shohreh Noorizadeh Dehkordi; Mehdi Dadgoo; Malahat Akbarfahimi

Volume 1, Issue 3 , Summer 2014, , Pages 47-51

Abstract

  Background: The objectives of this study were to compare manual dexterity (gross and fine) and coordination performance of the ipsilateral upper extremity of the right hemisphere stroke ...  Read More Background: The objectives of this study were to compare manual dexterity (gross and fine) and coordination performance of the ipsilateral upper extremity of the right hemisphere stroke patients with the same side of a healthy group, and to determine the relationship of ipsilateral upper extremity dexterity and disability.Methods: In a non-randomized analytical study, 30 individuals with a unilateral first-ever stroke from outpatient rehabilitation clinics and 30 age and sex-matched adults without history of neurological disorders were enrolled. Purdue Pegboard, Box and Block, and Finger to Nose tests were used to measure dexterity (fine and gross) and coordination performance of the stroke group compared with the same hand of the healthy group. The Barthel index was also used to assess disability or dependency of stroke patients in basic activities of daily living.Results: Results showed that stroke individuals with involvement of ipsilateral hand had less coordination and dexterity when compared to the same hand of normal subjects (P=0.001). In addition, the relationship of gross and fine manual dexterity performance of the ipsilateral upper extremity with disability, including dependence in basic activities of daily living, were significant respectively (r=0.376, r= 0.391).Conclusion: People with right stroke had significant ipsilateral upper extremity impairments (manual dexterity and coordination tasks), and this hand dexterity deterioration had an impact on their dependence in basic activities of daily living.

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15. Flexibility of Knee Joint Muscles in Women with Knee Osteoarthritis and Healthy Controls

Sara Abolahrari Shirazi; Farahnaz Ghafari Nezhad; Maryam Ebrahimian; Elham Nouraddini; Azadeh Mansoorian; Farahnaz Emami

Volume 2, Issue 3 , Summer 2015, , Pages 47-52

Abstract

  Background: Osteoarthritis is one of the most common diseases in synovial joints. Dueto high loading forces during weight-bearing activities, the knee joint is prone to degenerative ...  Read More Background: Osteoarthritis is one of the most common diseases in synovial joints. Dueto high loading forces during weight-bearing activities, the knee joint is prone to degenerative processes. This study aimed to compare the flexibility of muscles around the knee joint in patients with knee osteoarthritis with those of healthy individuals.Methods: Twenty-three women with bilateral knee osteoarthritis and 23 healthy women matched with the patient group for age, height and weight participated in this study. Flexibility of the quadriceps, hamstring, iliotibial band, adductor and gastrocnemius muscles was evaluated with a goniometric device. Pain intensity was assessed with a visual analogue scale. The data were analyzed with independent t-tests to compare the two groups, and Pearson correlation coefficient was calculated to correlate muscle flexibility and pain intensity.Results: significant lower flexibility of the bilateral quadriceps muscles was found in patients compared to healthy women (P<0.05). No significant differences were detected between groups regarding other muscles. Quadriceps flexibility correlated significantly with pain intensity in patients (P<0.001).Conclusion: In patients with osteoarthritis, quadriceps flexibility may be decreased although other muscles may remain unaffected. Quadriceps stretching is thus a potentially important component of treatment, which may influence pain reduction in these patients. 

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16. Can a Smartphone be used for Balance Assessment during Walking in Lower Limb Amputees?

Mohammad Reza Rezaie; Tahmoures Tahmasebi; Akbar Hassanzadeh

Volume 7, Issue 2 , June 2020, , Pages 47-53

Abstract

  Background:Nowadays, smartphones are equipped with an accelerometer module that can measure and record the body linear accelerations during walking. The aims of this study were: 1) ...  Read More Background:Nowadays, smartphones are equipped with an accelerometer module that can measure and record the body linear accelerations during walking. The aims of this study were: 1) reliability assessment of smartphone accelerometer for trunk accelerometry; 2) comparison of stability indices base on trunk accelerometry between the amputee and able-bodied subjects; and 3) comparison between energy storage and release (ESR) and multi-axis prosthetic feet users. Methods: Eleven below-knee amputees (5 multi-axis and 6 ESR prosthetic feet) and 11 able-bodied subjects enrolled in this comparative study. The dynamic stability was assessed using a smartphone attached to their back through an elastic belt during walking in a 6-m walkway. Also, normalized root mean squares (nRMS) of mediolateral (ML) and anteroposterior (AP) directions were calculated as stability indices. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), SEM%, and Bland-Altman plots were used for reliability analysis. The Independent T-test was also used to compare the healthy and amputee subjects as well as ESR and multiaxis prosthetic feet users. The critical alpha was set at 0.05. Results: The results showed that the accelerometer has the ICC values more than 0.97 and 0.89 for test-retest and inter-session, respectively. Amputees had significantly higher trunk accelerations in ML direction compared to able-bodied subjects (p=0.023) but not in AP direction (p=0.496). Although the results were not significant between ESR and multi-axis prosthetic feet (AP P= 0.16, ML P=0.44), the AP stability index was higher in ESR users (AP Multi-axis=117.45, ESR=127.38). Conclusion: The smartphone can be used as a reliable measurement tool in clinical environments to assess the stability indices based on trunk accelerometry in transtibial amputees. More studies should be conducted to obtain more reliable results.

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17. Development and Psychometric Evaluation of Persian version of the Quick Speech in Noise Test in Persian Speaking 18-25 Years Old Normal Adults

Hamide Arbab; Abdollah Moossavi; Mohanna Javanbakht; Hamide Arbab sarjoo; Enayatollah Bakhsh; Behrooz MahmoodiBakhtiari; Yones Lotfi

Volume 3, Issue 3 , Summer 2016, , Pages 51-56

Abstract

  Background: One of the common problems of those who refer to audiology clinics, is difficulty of hearing in noisy conditions. Different tests have been developed for diagnosis and quantification ...  Read More Background: One of the common problems of those who refer to audiology clinics, is difficulty of hearing in noisy conditions. Different tests have been developed for diagnosis and quantification of reduced ability of speech perception in noise and the Quick Speech-in-Noise test is one of the most appropriate of them. The goal of the present study was to develop and validate the Persian version of the Quick Speech-in-Noise Test in normal, Persian speaking, 18-25 year-old participants.Methods: This study had two main stages: first, developing the test materials and determining the content validity and the second, determining the equivalency of the test material lists, and assessing the reliability of them.In the first stage, sentences having content validity were developed and recorded. In the second stage,in order to determine list equivalency, the lists were presented to 60 Persian-speaking (gender balanced), 18-25 year-old students and the average SNR-50 for each list was calculated using the Spearman-Kärber formula. In order to determine the reliability of the test, the test was again administered to15of the primary participants, two weeks later.Results: among80 sentences developed, 60 received enough credits from audiologists and speech therapists. Average SNR-50 in the Persian language was calculated as -0.25 dB. Thirty six content valid sentences, according to special criteria, were divided into six lists each containing 6sentences. The SNR-50 for each list revealed that lists number 2,3, 4and 5 were equivalent. Examination of test-retest reliability indicated that lists number 1,2,3,4 and 6 were reliable (P<0.05).Conclusion: Present study was developing three equivalent and reliable lists (number 2,3,4) for the Persian version of the Q-SIN test which are useful for diagnosing and selecting the best rehabilitation method for people with reduced speech perception in noise.

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18. The Effect of Orthoses on Treatment of Lateral Epicondylitis: a Systematic review

Hassan Barati; Mohammad Reza Rezaie; Seyyed Sadra Saleh Shariaty; Zahra Rahimi

Volume 6, Issue 2 , June 2019, , Pages 51-59

Abstract

  Background: Lateral epicondylitis, or tennis elbow, is one of the common disorders in humans. Despite recommended treatments, there is no definite therapy for this disorder. Therefore, ...  Read More Background: Lateral epicondylitis, or tennis elbow, is one of the common disorders in humans. Despite recommended treatments, there is no definite therapy for this disorder. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to review scientific reports on the effects of orthotic devices for treatment (comparing orthoses with other treatments related to lateral epicondylitis parameters), reducing complications, and improving symptoms of this condition. Methods: Ovid, Scopus, and Web of science were searched to identify studies which reported the effectiveness of orthotic treatment for lateral epicondylitis from 1996 until 2017. Studies were collected based on the inclusion criteria and a few were selected out of a large number of studies. The PEDro scale was used for the quality assessment of the selected articles. Results: A total of 43 articles were chosen, 16 articles on Orthotics vs. other nonsurgical treatments, 20 articles on the comparison of different orthotics, and 7 reviews. Conclusion: Based on the results of the selected papers, there was not sufficient evidence to decide on the effectiveness among several orthoses or for comparing orthotic treatment with other treatment methods. However, it should be emphasized that the use of orthosis can be an acceptable treatment for improving some symptoms of this condition such as pain, grip, pain-free grip, no pain, grip strength, function, ROM, and proprioception.

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19. The Effects of Visual Feedback and Verbal Encouragement on Abdominal Muscles Endurance Tests

Morteza Taghipour; Salman Nazary-Moghadam; Mohammad Reza Pourahmadi; Fatemeh Rajabzadeh; Afsun Nodehi-Moghadam

Volume 4, Issue 3 , Summer 2017, , Pages 61-65

Abstract

  Background: Abdominal muscles are one of the most important componentsthat provide trunk stability. It has been reported that abdominal musclesendurance can be decreased in patients ...  Read More Background: Abdominal muscles are one of the most important componentsthat provide trunk stability. It has been reported that abdominal musclesendurance can be decreased in patients with low back pain. Tests that canbe used for the assessment of abdominal muscles endurance; include supineisometric chest raise (SICR) and supine double straight-leg raise (SDSLR) tests.The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of visual feedback and verbalencouragement on endurance tests of deep abdominal muscles.Methods: In this two-factor mixed design study, a convenient sample of 40asymptomatic (healthy) participants (20 males and females each) aged between20-35 years was selected. Each subject performed the SICR and SDSLR tests under4 conditions: no feedback, visual feedback, verbal encouragement, and combinedvisual feedback and verbal encouragement. The tests were terminated when thesubject was no longer able to maintain a position. Furthermore, each test wasrepeated twice with 5 min interval and the average time was recorded for analysis.Results: Endurance test time was improved significantly when 2 types of feedbackwere given during the tests (P<0.01). However, combined visual feedback andverbal encouragement had superior effect on endurance test time compared tovisual feedback or verbal encouragement alone (P=0.01).Conclusion: The incorporation of verbal encouragement and visual feedback isan important factor in improving holding time during endurance tasks. Thismay have important implications on endurance training and rehabilitationprogrammes of abdominal muscles.

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20. Effects of Chronic Otitis Media with Effusion on Amblyaudia

Shahnaz Alamdari; Yones Lotfi; Alireza Karimi Yazdi; Mohanna Javanbakht; Enayatollah Bakhshi

Volume 5, Issue 3 , Summer 2018, , Pages 63-67

Abstract

  Background: Chronic otitis media with effusion (CME) primarily affectschildren. Temporary auditory deprivation is a serious complication of thisdisease and can result in auditory processing ...  Read More Background: Chronic otitis media with effusion (CME) primarily affectschildren. Temporary auditory deprivation is a serious complication of thisdisease and can result in auditory processing disorder, as demonstrated in paststudies. The objective of the current study was to investigate the effects of CMEduration on binaural processing and amblyaudia.Methods: Ninety-four children were examined, including 48 children (29girls=60%) with different CME durations (from 3 months to more than 9months) and 46 children (34 girls=73%) with no history of CME or a durationof less than 3 months CME. Persian versions of the dichotic digits and dichoticrhyme tests were applied.Results: Significant differences between the groups (P<0.001) in dichoticdigits difference (DDD) and dichotic rhyme difference (DRD) in free recallconditions were identified. With longer durations of CME, the DDD and DRDaverage scores were increased in the CME positive group, and the probability ofamblyaudia was also enhanced.Conclusion: A history of CME and the long-term auditory deprivation resultingfrom it in early childhood can increase the risk of amblyaudia.

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21. The Immediate Effects of Conventional Physical Therapy on the Knee Joint Load in Subjects with Moderate Knee Osteoarthritis; A Preliminary Single Blinded Randomized Control Trial

Leila Fattahi; Zahra Sadat Rezaeian

Volume 2, Issue 4 , Autumn 2015, , Pages 71-79

Abstract

  Background: Subjects with knee osteoarthritis typically have higher knee adduction moment. Current research efforts are mainly focused on therapeutic procedures that potentially may ...  Read More Background: Subjects with knee osteoarthritis typically have higher knee adduction moment. Current research efforts are mainly focused on therapeutic procedures that potentially may modify disease progression. This preliminary study was designed as a single blind (examiner) randomized control trial to investigate the impact of conventional physical therapy on pain, and knee joint load in subjects with moderate knee osteoarthritis.Methods: Twelve participants diagnosed with moderate knee OA were randomly assigned into control and intervention groups. Three-dimensional knee kinematic and kinetic data were recorded during the gait before and after 10 sessions of conventional physical therapy. In addition, pain intensity was evaluated by visual analog scale and pain subscale of KOOS questionnaire. The control group did not receive any intervention during the same period. Gait parameters were analyzed within and between groups using nonparametric tests.Results: There was a significant difference between groups in baseline KOOS-pain Score and ML knee force (P =0.048 and P=0.01). Immediately after ten sessions of physical therapy the initial (first) peak of knee adduction moment was significantly (P=0.03) lower than that of the control group while the first and second peak of knee AP velocity were significantly (P=0.02, P =0.01 respectively) higher. In the intervention group, the second peaks of vertical and anteroposterior (AP) knee forces were strongly correlated with the pretest KOOS-pain Score (r =0.99 and r =0.98, P<0.001). Therefore a multivariate general linear model was adopted with adjustment to baseline KOOS-pain. By this adjustment, 51% alleviation of VAS pain score and 81% decrement of first peak of knee adduction moment in comparison to control group was statistically significant (P=0.02, P=0.03 respectively).Conclusion: It seems that ten sessions of conventional physical therapy may modify knee joint load in subjects with moderate knee osteoarthritis. Further research is recommended.

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22. Standardization of Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale in Iranian subjects with Cerebrovascular Accident

Seyed Alireza Derakhshanrad; Emily Piven; Mehdi Rassafiani; Seyed Ali Hosseini; Farahnaz Mohammadi Shahboulaghi

Volume 1, Issue 4 , Autumn 2014, , Pages 73-77

Abstract

  Background: Resilience is a personal trait that can influence the stroke subjects’ attitudes toward future opportunities and facilitate the transitional process and adaptation in ...  Read More Background: Resilience is a personal trait that can influence the stroke subjects’ attitudes toward future opportunities and facilitate the transitional process and adaptation in them. Assessment of this trait in stroke subjects with a standardized tool would promote the rehabilitation protocols and occupational therapy interventions. Therefore, the objective of this study was to standardize the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) for Persian Iranian people who have had strokes.Methods: A descriptive observational study was adopted in order to standardize the CD-RISC in stroke population. The population was comprised of 34 female and 29 male subjects with a mean age of 51.4±10.6 years and the history of ischemic or hemorrhagic cerebrovascular accidents. Subjects were recruited based on inclusion criteria within the period of two months between May and July of 2014. Descriptive statistics were calculated along with the Cronbach's alpha to determine reliability. Standard multiple regression analyses searched for any correlation between variables and resilience.Results: Statistical parameters revealed a mean of 58.4±15.5 for CD-RISC raw scores. Percentile ranks were also calculated from raw data. Cronbach's alpha of 0.892 revealed that the CD-RISC had high reliability for the population of this study. Multiple regression analyses showed that the functional status was the only variable that uniquely predicted subjects’ resilience (ß = 0.41; P< 0.01). Conclusion: The findings of this research confirmed applicability of CD-RISC in Iranian people who have had strokes. The standardized CD-RISC was determined to be suitable for use in the clinic and for utilization in research studies in Iranian people status post-stroke.  

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23. The Reliability of Smartphone and Goniometric Measurements of Hip Range of Motion

Elizabeth S Norris; Emily Wright; Shannon Sims; Megan Fuller; Kurt Neelly

Volume 3, Issue 4 , Autumn 2016, , Pages 77-84

Abstract

  Background: Range of motion is an essential component of the hip examination.  Handling issues with the goniometer often create challenges when measuring hip passive range of motion ...  Read More Background: Range of motion is an essential component of the hip examination.  Handling issues with the goniometer often create challenges when measuring hip passive range of motion (PROM).  Recent generations of smartphones have emerged as an alternative instrument for the measurement of joint ROM.  The purpose of this study was to investigate the intra-rater, inter-rater and inter-instrument reliability of smartphone and goniometric hip PROM. Methods:Two investigators measured hip PROM to a designated end position on 30 asymptomatic participants in a blinded within study design using two measurement methods, smartphone and goniometer. Relative reliability of smartphone and goniometric measurements of hip PROM was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Absolute reliability of both measurement methods was assessed using paired t-tests, standard errors of measurement (SEM), and 95% limits of agreement (LOA).Results: Relative reliability ICCs ranged from 0.47-0.99 (intra-rater), 0.05-0.99 (inter-rater) and 0.25 -0.97 (inter-instrument).  Inter-rater differences of smartphone hip measurements were non-significant, however, significant differences were found for all inter-rater goniometric hip measurements (p<0.02).  The comparison of the smartphone to goniometric measurements showed bias was present in 7 out to 12 hip measurements (p < 0.04).  SEM ranged from 1° to 3° (intra-rater, inter-rater, and inter-instrument).  LOA ranged from -6.8° - 5.1° (inter-rater) and -8.9° - 13.8° (inter-instrument). Conclusion: These findings support intra-rater reliability of both instruments when measuring hip PROM.  Inter-rater reliability, however, was supported only for the smartphone. Due to systematic bias of inter-instrument measurements performed by one rater, caution should be used if the instruments are to be used interchangeably in order to quantify within session hip PROM. 

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24. The Effect of Cognitive Rehabilitation on the Improvement of Language Skills in 9-12 Years Old Children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Masoomeh Asefi; Vahid Nejati; Masood Sharifi

Volume 4, Issue 4 , Autumn 2017, , Pages 89-96

Abstract

  Background: According to the research literature, there was a relationship between cognitive functions of attention and working memory and linguistic skills. The aim of this research ...  Read More Background: According to the research literature, there was a relationship between cognitive functions of attention and working memory and linguistic skills. The aim of this research was to investigate the effect of cognitive rehabilitation on the improvement of the linguistic skills in 9-12 years old children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.Methods: 40 students in grade 4, 5 and 6 of a primary school in Miyane city were assigned equally and randomly to two intervention and control groups. The research design was experimental with pre-test, post-test, follow-up, and control group. The language tests included; Thurston Verbal Fluency task, Token test of receptive language, Boston naming speed test, Assessment of Persian Reading Ability (APRA), verbal working memory subtest of Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, and Attention Register task. Parental version of the Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham (SNAP-IV) questionnaire was used to screen ADHD. The intervention method was based on Attentive Rehabilitation of Attention and Memory (ARAM) with emphasis on attention and working memory. Mixed ANOVA statistical test was used to analyze the data.Results: The results showed that the linguistic skills assessed in the research which include naming (F=29.42, P=0.01), verbal fluency (phonological fluency: F=15.68, P=0.01; semantic fluency: F=13.73, P=0.01), reading abilities (alphabet reading 1: F=17.84, P=0.01; alphabet reading 2: F=27.07, P=0.01; word reading: F=19.82, P=0.01; reading ability: F=19.97, P=0.01; voice change: F=13.47, P=0.01; reading comprehension: F=36.85, P=0.01), comprehension (F=6.75, P=0.01), verbal working memory (direct digits: F=7.7, P=0.01; inverse digits: F=14.26, P=0.01) and attention (attention registration 1: F=10.23, P=0.01; attention registration 2: F=4.33, P=0.04) were improved, following the intervention.Conclusion: Computerized Training of working memory and attention can enhance the language skills in children with ADHD. This result confirmed the role of attention and working memory on language skills.

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25. Is Cupping Therapy in Combination with Routine Physical Therapy Effective in the Management of Knee Osteoarthritis? A Randomized Controlled Trial

Sara Abolahrari-Shirazi; Farahnaz Ghafari Nezhad; Ziba Ahmadpour; Leila Zare; Farahnaz Emami

Volume 5, Issue 4 , Autumn 2018, , Pages 93-98

Abstract

  Background: Osteoarthritis is a common form of arthritis accompanied by varying degrees of disability and reduced quality of life. Several management regimens are available to treat ...  Read More Background: Osteoarthritis is a common form of arthritis accompanied by varying degrees of disability and reduced quality of life. Several management regimens are available to treat knee osteoarthritis. Cupping therapy is used to treat musculoskeletal disorders but its effects on knee osteoarthritis has remained unclear. The study aimed to compare the effectiveness of intermittent cupping therapy plus routine physical therapy with routine physical therapy alone in patients with knee osteoarthritis.Methods: Twenty-six patients with knee osteoarthritis were randomly assigned into two groups: intermittent cupping therapy plus routine physical therapy (intervention group, n=13) and routine physical therapy alone (control group, n=13). In the routine physical therapy group, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, hot pack, and ultrasound were used, while in the cupping therapy group, intermittent vacuum therapy was used together with routine physical therapy. Both groups received 10 treatment sessions over a period of 2 weeks. Pain intensity was measured via visual analog scale (VAS). Further, functional disability was assessed using the Persian version of Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC) osteoarthritis index questionnaire. Finally, knee joint passive range of motion (ROM) was measured with photography pre- and post-intervention. Results: At follow-up, both groups had significantly lower pain intensity and functional disability, and higher knee passive ROM compared to their respective pre-intervention values (P0.05). Differences in total WOMAC scores between pre- and post-intervention were significantly greater in the control group than in the intervention group (P

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