International Journal of Physiotherapy and Research

Editor-in-Chief: Dr. Srikath K
ISSN: (Print)2321-8975 (Online) 2321-1822

Frequency: Bi-monthly

Language: English

Open Access Peer-reviewed journal

Web site: https://www.ijmhr.org/ijpr.html

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Recent Submissions

Now showing 1 - 20 of 93
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    Daily Excessive Use Of Smartphone, Leads To Exaggerated Hand Symptoms Among University Students As Checked By Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire: A Cross-Sectional Study
    (IMED Research Publications, 2020-08) Shukla, Mayank; Jain, Sakshi; Rajput, Meenakshi
    Introduction: The usage of smartphone (SP) has dramatically increased among young University students for their daily work and social media connect. It affects hand functions, and the present study was aimed at checking for chronicity of SP use and their effect on hand function. Methods: Using a cross-sectional study design ─ N=150 university students in the age group of 18-35 years were involved, after taking informed consent. They were using smartphone chronically (>12 months minimum). Hand functions were checked using Smartphone addiction scale (SAS) and Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ). To check the effect of chronicity the participants were grouped based on daily usage (3-6hrs; 6-9hrs & >9hrs per day of SP use), and usage over a period of months (12-60 months; 60-120 months & >120 months of SP use). One – way ANOVA was used to check significant difference taking p=0.05 as the level of significance. Results: For all participants Mean values were ─ SAS = 22.63 ± 4.075, BCTQ FSS = 11.41 ± 3.784, BCTQ SSS= 15.053 ± 4.32. Significant differences were seen in daily usage of SP on BCTQ FSS (p=0.00097 & f ratio=5.73) and BCTQ SSS (p=0.032 & f ratio=2.99). ANOVA for SAS was significant (p<0.05) for daily usage groups but not for usage over a period of months. Conclusion: Excessive daily usage of smartphone for more than 3 hours, chronically leads to hand symptoms among University students, and it is addictive as seen here, however chronicity of use over months in non-addictive. It has implications during daily extended uses like working on SP for official work and gaming.
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    Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy For Sacroiliac Joint Pain: Case Report
    (IMED Research Publications, 2020-08) Alhakami, Anas; Qasheesh, Mohammed; Bose, Senthil Kumar Cennappan
    This case report describes a clinical case of a 53 years aged male with Low Back Pain (LBP) at Sacro Iliac Joint (SIJ). Patient referred to physical therapy department with LBP over the past 3 weeks. Pain extended to posterior aspect of left thigh and worsening with prolonged standing, sitting and with stair climbing. Moreover, he found difficulty to ride his car or going from sit to stand. He had a history of road traffic accident 30 years ago that led to severe pain in his lower back area, he was a farmer as well and was working hardly more than 8 hours daily by lifting heavy objects. Patient came to the department by walking with assistive cane. By palpation, there was a local tenderness at the posterior aspect of the SIJ. Range of motion was limited by pain in lumbar flexion, extension, rotation and bilateral side bending movements. Pain scored 7 out of 10 on Numerical Pain Rating Visual Analogue Scale. Functional disability scored 19 out of 24 on Roland-Morris Disability questionnaire. Patient underwent special test of FABER, SLR and sacroiliac stress tests and Physical therapy modalities of TENS, dry cupping, myofascial release technique and manipulation, medical taping, hot packs applied before and after exercise. Stretching exercises included single knee to chest, trunk rotation, child’s pose and stabilization exercises of bird dog pose, superman’s, bridge, ball squeeze. Outcomes of treatment were assessed with same pretest measures. At the end of 3 weeks, patient improved in all symptoms of reduced pain to 2 out of 10 on Numerical Pain Rating, 3 out of 24 on Roland-Morris disability questionnaire. Post rehabilitative findings on all provocative tests were negative. Evidence on physical therapy management of patients with SIJ pain appears underreported. Patients presenting with SIJ pain should be routinely screened for sacroiliac component in LBP. Physical therapists are encouraged to report their findings so as to strengthen the evidence available for physical therapy for SIJ pain.
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    Gender Differences In Scores Of Anxiety And Depression Among Physical Therapy Students Of Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study
    (IMED Research Publications, 2020-08) Algarni, Fahad Saad
    Purpose: The current study aimed to determine the prevalence of depression and anxiety disorders among physical therapy students and to identify any gender differences. Methods: This study used a cross-sectional approach to investigate physical therapy students and collected data via the Beck Depression Inventory and Beck Anxiety Inventory as well as demographic and social information. Data collection occurred during the middle of the 2016/17 academic year, beginning in the second week of the academic term, and finishing in the fifth week. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Results: Among the 215 students included in this study, the prevalence of anxiety and depression was 33% and 34% respectively. In addition, gender differences showed that female students were more likely to experience severe and moderate anxiety levels compared to male students. Conclusions: Physical therapy students reported alarming levels of anxiety and depression. Gender differences also existed with regard to anxiety and other factors. The presence of mental health concerns potentially compromises the academic achievement and quality of life for students. Urgent intervention is required to avoid or at least reduce such high levels of anxiety and depression among university students.
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    Effect Of Chest Binder On Kinesiophobia In Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Patients, Over A Period Of One Month: A Prospective Experimental Study
    (IMED Research Publications, 2020-08) Joshi, Megha O.; Pagare, Rajani S.
    Background: Kinesiophobia has been reported as one of the most common factors that hinder the exercise based cardiac rehabilitation. According to the evidences in the literature and clinical observations, chest binder is prescribed post median sternotomy to reduce the postoperative complaints and complications. Till date no sufficient evidence has been reported regarding effectiveness of chest binder on kinesiophobia in CABG patients post median sternotomy. Purpose: To assess the effect of chest binder on the level of kinesiophobia; in CABG patients over a period of one month. Participants: Total 70 (50 – males; 20 – females) post CABG via median sternotomy, hemodynamically stable patients, aged between 40 – 70 years, with Tampa Scale for kinesiophobia – short version (TSK – SV) Heart scores > 37 were included. Methods: On the 4th post operative day, patients were assessed for level of kinesiophobia using TSK – SV Heart. The patients were divided in to two groups depending on the prescription of chest binder by their surgeons as Group A (with binder), Group B (without binder). One month post CABG, the patients in both the groups were asked to fill the TSK – SV Heart, via telephonic conversation. Analysis: Comparison of TSK – SV Heart score at baseline and after one month within Group A and Group B was done using Wilcoxon signed rank test with continuity correction. Comparison of difference of TSK – SV Heart score at baseline and after one month between Group A and Group B was done using Mann – Whitney test. The p value < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results: The mean of TSK –SV Heart score on 4th day post CABG in group A and group B was 43.42 (±7.717) and 43.45 (±4.64) respectively. The mean of TSK –SV Heart score on one month post CABG in group A and group B was 35.82 (±8.372) and 39.51 (± 6.03) respectively. A significant reduction in kinesiophobia was observed in group A and group B, p-value 0.00001188 and 0.00007886 respectively. The 95% Confidence Interval (CI) median estimate of group A and group B was 7.9 (5.0 – 10.5) and 4.5 (3.0 – 6.0) respectively. The mean of difference of TSK – SV Heart score in group A and group B was 7.6 (±8.24) and 3.94 (±4.82) respectively. The reduction in kinesiophobia in group A was significantly more than in group B, p-value = 0.00792. The 95% Confidence Interval (CI) median estimate of the mean of difference of TSK – SV Heart score in group A and group B was 3.7 (2.48 – 4.92) Conclusion: There was significant reduction in kinesiophobia irrespective of the use of chest binder post CABG via median sternotomy over a period of one month. There was marked reduction in kinesiophobia in patients who were using chest binder. Implications: Use of chest binder is recommended in patients who have kinesiophobia to encourage their participation in exercise based cardiac rehabilitation.
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    Effect Of Taping On Scapular Posture And Shoulder Range Of Motion In Subacromial Impingement Syndrome
    (IMED Research Publications, 2019-04) Gandhi, Hemali J.; Mhatre, Bhavna; Chilgar, Leena; Mehta, Amita
    Background: Alteration in upper body posture is associated with shoulder impingement due to changes in scapular orientation, increased thoracic kyphosis and concomitant imbalance of glenohumeral and scapulothoracic muscles. Mechanical correction of scaular and thoracic posture can reduce impingement. Recently use of kinesiotapes has been increasingly popular. There have been some studies reporting the effect of kinesiotapes on muscle activation and pain reduction in subacromial impingement syndrome. Kinesiotapes can also be used to correct scapular and thoracic posture in Subacromial Impingement Syndrome. Purpose of study: To study the effect of scapula and thoracic taping using kinesiotapes in addition of conventional treatment on scapular posture and shoulder range of motion in Subacromial Impingement Syndrome. Materials and Methods: 60 subjects with Subacromial Impingement Syndrome were randomly assigned to two groups. Experimental group received scapula and thoracic taping using kinesiotape for 24hrs along with conventional physiotherapy treatment. Control group received conventional physiotherapy. Subjects were assessed pre, immediate post intervention and 24hr post intervention for scapular posture, shoulder range of motion and pain. Results: Experimental group showed statistical significant improvement(p<0.001) in scapular posture, shoulder range of motion and pain (on medial rotation, and reaching the back) scores both immediately and 24hour post intervention compared to control group. Also greater improvement was seen in pain and range of motion post 24 hour as compared to immediate post intervention in experimental group. Conclusion: Taping as an adjunct to conventional treatment is much more effective for short term improvement in scapular postures, range of motion and reduction in pain as compared to only conventional treatment in subjects with Subacromial Impingement Syndrome.
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    Knowledge, Attitude, Awareness And Practice Towards Covid-19 Pandemic In Indian Citizens During The National Lockdown Period: A Quick Online Cross-Sectional Study
    (IMED Research Publications, 2020-06) S, Doss Prakash; B, Kowshik Reddy; K, Athul; Swamy, Sheetal; Bhodaji, Satyam; Deshmukh, Aboli; T, Sanskruti; Lalremruati; Singh, Jagan Deep
    COVID-19 pandemic is causing unprecedented human health and economic consequences all across the globe. Being an international health emergency, the current state of global and national preparedness is at peak. The cases in India are increasing every day in spite of substantial efforts and control measures by the health authorities. Indian citizen’s knowledge, attitude, awareness, and practice influence their adherence towards COVID-19 control measures. This online study was conducted among Indian citizens KAAP towards COVID 19 during the national lockdown period. An online KAAP questionnaire was shared with four regional coordinators and it was shared with many citizens through online platforms in their regions. There were a total of 16 questionnaires in the KAAP online format. Among the survey respondents (n=12091), 57.9% were females, 51% hold an undergraduate degree, and 63.06% were from urban locality. The majority of the respondents (87.2%) had confidence that India will win the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic health crisis. Also the majority of respondents (86.5%) have adequate knowledge about the COVID-19. The COVID-19 knowledge scores were significantly lower in persons without the confidence of winning (P<0.001). In multiple logistic regression analysis showed that COVID-19 knowledge score (OR: 0.69, P<0.0001) were significantly associated with negative attitudes and preventive practices towards COVID-2019 with no confidence of winning. Most of the Indian citizens with an undergraduate degree, particularly females, have adequate knowledge about the COVID-19 pandemic, and they hold optimistic attitudes and follow appropriate practice towards COVID-19. More targeted and focused health guidelines meeting the various segments of the Indian population should be provided at improving COVID-19 knowledge, which will improve their optimistic attitude. Due to fewer respondents, the results should not be generalized to the entire population.
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    Effect Of Abdominal Muscle Exercises On Peak Expiratory Flow Rate In Obese Individuals
    (IMED Research Publications, 2020-08) Pasad, Bijal; Palkar, Anagha; Kumar, Ajay
    Background: Expiration is a passive process with active muscle contraction being used more during forceful activities such as coughing or sneezing. The abdominal muscles are major muscles of diaphragm. So it improves the efficiency of expiration. In obese individuals there is deposition of fat around the rib cage and the chest wall. Studies have shown that there is a decrease in the functional residual capacity and expiratory reserve volume in obese individuals. The expiratory flow limitation is important determinant of breathlessness in obese individuals. Abdominal and thoracic fat have direct effects on downward movement of diaphragm and chest wall. Abdominal muscles are powerful expiratory muscles whose actions help to force the diaphragm back to its resting position. Aim: This present study was done to determine the effect of abdominal muscle exercises on peak expiratory flow rate in obese individuals. Methods: In this experimental study 30 obese subjects with decreased peak expiratory flow rate who fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria having a Body mass index of more than 30kg/cm2 were selected for abdominal muscle exercise program for 4 weeks, 2 sets of each exercise, thrice a week for 10 repetitions for each set. The pre and post peak expiratory flow rate were measured by peak expiratory flow meter. Statistical analysis was done using one sample t and Wilcoxon test. Results: There was a significant increase in post peak expiratory flow rate compared to pre peak expiratory flow rate. Conclusion: This study showed that there is significant effect of abdominal muscle exercises on peak expiratory flow rate in obese individuals.
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    Study Of Lower Extremity Dysfunctions In Adolescent Footballers
    (IMED Research Publications, 2020-08) Ghogale, Krutali Saiprasad; Shroff, Riddhi
    Background: Football is the most popular sport worldwide. Although participation in football leads to significant physical benefits, high velocity trauma and direct contact between the players have made football a kind of sport, connecting both the consequences of chronic overuse and acute injuries. There is a growing interest witnessed in football amongst younger age groups participating at a competitive level. However, increased participation predisposes the immature skeleton to injuries. The prevention of injury is important to minimize problems in the adolescent age group. Thus the purpose of our study is to evaluate lower extremity domains affected in male adolescent football players. Methodology: The study subjects included were from club, district and state level football associations in the age group of 12 to 18 years. Demographic data and Lower Extremity Functional Scale was recorded. Results: The players showed affection of these activities: difficulty while running on uneven ground, in making sharp turns while running and hopping. Conclusion: The study concluded that there was mild impairment affecting the lower extremity function in football players.
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    Effect Of Yoga And Pranayama On Chest Expansion And Breath Holding Time In Chefs Exposed To Cooking Fumes
    (IMED Research Publications, 2020-06) Nair, Akhila; Palkar, Anagha; Honkalas, Priyanka
    Background: Chefs exposed to cooking fumes are at risk due to the toxic products that are produced during cooking. Studies have shown that exposure to cooking fumes decreases lung capacities, affects breathing and cause other respiratory diseases. Yoga strengthens the respiratory musculature due to which chest and lungs inflate & deflate to fullest possible extent & muscles are made to work to maximal extent. Pranayama makes efficient use of abdominal & diaphragmatic muscles and improves the respiratory apparatus. Aim: The present study was done to determine the effect of Yoga & Pranayama on chest expansion & breath holding time in chefs exposed to cooking fumes. Methods: In this experimental study 30 chefs exposed to cooking fumes who fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria using Medical research council questionnaire for respiratory symptoms were selected for yoga and pranayama program for 6 weeks, 3 sessions per week for 45 minutes. Pre and post respiratory functions were assessed by measuring chest expansion and breath holding time. Stastical analysis was done by using Wilcoxan test to compare the pre & post chest expansion. Paired t test was used to compare the pre & post breath holding time. Results: There was significant increase in chest expansion and breath holding time compared to pre yoga and pranayama practice. Conclusion: This study showed that there is significant effect of yoga and pranayama on chest expansion & breath holding on chefs.
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    Relationship Of Associated Reactions In The Hemiplegic Arm And Leg With Spasticity
    (IMED Research Publications, 2020-06) Prem, Anita; Raj, Joseph Oliver
    Background: Associated reactions may be observed in several neurological conditions involving upper motor neuron disorders and more frequently in hemiplegic extremities. The patient’s ability to control associated reactions is generally considered an index of their motor performance. The severity of spasticity and its relationship with the severity of associated reactions have not been explored much. Moreover, as many studies have not been made in the ankle, an attempt has also been made to study the associated reactions in the ankle, based on Brunnstrom’s assertion that in the lower limb, associated reactions are of the opposite type to the movement employed to evoke the response. Purpose of the Study: The purpose of the study is to find the relationship between the severity of associated reactions and the severity of spasticity in the hemiplegic arm and leg, the relationship between the maximal voluntary force exertion and the associated reactions in the hemiplegic arm, and to find out which muscle group is over firing during contra lateral maximal voluntary force exertion in the hemiplegic arm and leg. Materials and Methods: A descriptive study design has been used in this study, with a sample of 20 hemiplegic subjects with post CVA duration from 1 – 3 years. The sample consisted of both right and left hemiplegics of age between 45 and 65 yrs., including both the ischaemic and haemorrhagic causes of lesion. The study on the relationship of associated reactions with spasticity was made on the 20 hemiplegic subjects in terms of electrical muscle activity and elbow and ankle movement in the paretic arm and leg using surface electromyography and clinical goniometry respectively. Results: There is considerable variability in the magnitude of associated reactions seen in patients with spasticity. The electrical activity of associated reactions is widespread among the flexors of elbow and wrist and is predominant in the dorsiflexors of ankle. The study also shows that there is considerable variability in the amplitude of associated reactions when correlated with the force exerted on the normal side. Conclusion: This study has the potential to be useful in the evaluation and treatments aimed at reducing associated reactions and spasticity in the hemiplegic patients.
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    Comparison Of Spirometric Pulmonary Function In Subjects With Apple And Pear Shape Fat Distribution
    (IMED Research Publications, 2020-06) Chheda, Krina; Shetye, Jaimala; Mehta, Amita
    Background: The pattern of obesity as decided by body fat distribution is an important predictor of adverse health effects such as diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia and coronary events. Waist hip ratio has been correlated with cardiovascular risk. Obesity is been known to cause restrictive respiratory impairment however; the effect of body fat distribution on the respiratory system is often underappreciated and limited evidence is available on spirometric pulmonary function in subjects with different body fat distribution. Hence here is a need to know weather pattern of obesity affects pulmonary function. Objectives: 1) To measure Waist Hip ratio (WHR) of subjects having BMI of more than 23 kg/m2 and based on this form two groups, one with apple and the other with pear shape fat distribution 2) To measure FVC and FEV1 in subjects of the above two groups.3) To compare FVC, FEV1 and %FEV1/FVC in above two groups. Methodology: In this comparative study a total of 182 subjects comprising of 91 subjects of Apple shaped and Pear shaped each were recruited in a period of 6 months. Study Settings: The study was conducted in the outpatient Physiotherapy department of a tertiary care hospital. The subjects in the study belonged to age group of 18-40 years. The mean age of the enrolled subjects was 29 years. Outcome measure: 1.FVC (L); 2. %FEV1 /FVC Results: The present study provides the evidence that FVC and %FEV1/FVC values are not statistically different in apple and pear shaped fat distribution individuals. Although both apple and pear shaped individuals showed %FEV1/FVC value more than 70% predicted, apple shaped individuals showed greater obstructive tendency i.e. reduced flow rates as compared to pear shaped individuals. Also more individuals of apple shaped showed restrictive pattern as compared to pear shaped. Conclusion: There was no statistically significant difference in the pulmonary function test in the two groups but there is a possibility of subclinical reduction in pulmonary function more in apple shaped than in pear shaped individuals
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    A Comparative Study Of Footprints Of Basketball Players Versus Non Playing Individuals
    (IMED Research Publications, 2020-06) Palkar, Anagha; Priyanka, Gokhale; Rathod, Deepali
    Aim: To compare footprints of basketball players with those of non-playing individuals. Background: The human foot and ankle are the last segments and their joint, the last within the complex kinetic chain of the lower limb as a whole. The foot is one of the most important interaction parts of the body with the ground, especially in the upright posture. During growth, the foot changes not only its dimensions but also its shape. The lower leg, ankle and foot are the most commonly affected region causing pain and disability in athlete, especially in track & field. A high impact sport like Basketball with the high involvement of foot in the game may cause the anatomy of the foot to change. This may also lead to change in the arch of the foot and predispose it to the injury. Methodology: 50 basketball players and 50 non playing healthy individuals were selected as per inclusion criteria. Demographic data like age, gender, height, weight, BMI and any injury in last 6 months were recorded for all study participants. For obtaining foot prints, ink was applied to the feet of the subjects. The subjects were then asked to step on graph paper in standing position, leaving a clear impression of foot’s plantar surface on the paper. The various distances in cms were taken using a transparent ruler. The flat index and arch index was also calculated. Result: Statistical analysis of the above graph showed significant difference in A, C, D,G between basketball and non-playing individuals. The other values (B, E, F,C/E) were not found to be statistically different. Conclusion: The distance A (from 1st toe to heel),distance D(metatarsal distance),distance C(length of the longitudinal arch contour) and distance G(narrowest distance of the foot) are increased in basketball players as compared to non playing individuals. Also the Arch index is more in basketball players which indicated a relatively flatter feet in basketball players as compared to non players. This indicates a flatter feet in basketball players as compared to non playing individuals.
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    Effect Of Two Sequencing Combinations Of Physical Practice And Mental Practice On Balance In Stroke Patients
    (IMED Research Publications, 2020-06) Tambe, Neha Ramchandra; Pazare, Shamla Wamanrao
    Aim & Objective: To study and compare the effect of two sequencing combinations of Physical Practice and Mental Practice in improving Balance in stroke patients using Balance evaluation system test and Activities specific balance confidence scale. Method: The experimental study was conducted on 30 subjects with strokes in the age group of 45-60 years, including both genders, with duration of stroke 1-6 months, and patients with the scoring of berg balance scale in between 21-40.All the subjects were assessed for the outcome measures at baseline using BESTest scale and ABC scale. Both the groups received treatment for 3 times/ week for 4 weeks. Re-assessment of all the outcome measures post 4-week intervention was done.Both the groups received conventional therapy and sequencing combinations of Mental practice and Physical practice. Results: A significant improvement was seen in both the groups of sequencing combinations in improving balance in stroke patients. Conclusion: The present study concludes that both the sequences of combinations of Mental Practice and Physical Practice are equally effective in improving balance in stroke patients.
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    Parental Reviews On Outcome 0f Night Splints In Children With Spastic Diplegia - A Regional Survey In Kerala, India
    (IMED Research Publications, 2020-06) M, Rashij; Rintu, Nahal; T., Linshina
    Orthotic supports play a very vital role in preventing limb deformities and supporting it in its functions. The aims and objectives of prescribing an orthotic splint for children with cerebral palsy varies widely. Basically there are two types of splints – Supportive & Positional splints. Positional splints aims to improve and maintain muscle lengths and joint positions. These are usually prescribed as night splints. However, how far these splinting meet its expectations are not known. In this survey, we studied the parents’ satisfaction range of 68 cases with spastic cerebral palsy and presented along with our inference.
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    Quantifying The Single Leg Balance Using Multiple Dynamic Postures On Stable Surface
    (IMED Research Publications, 2020-06) Rajkumar, R. Vinodh
    Introduction: Singe leg balance (SLB) is a key neuro-biomechanical asset of several fundamental and advanced closed kinetic chain activities of lower limbs. From the perspectives of healthy ageing and fall prevention strategies, there is a compelling need to explore and devise a safe and effective SLB assessment tool to incorporate in multifactorial health evaluations and gerontological education. Methodology: About twenty dynamic SLB exercise techniques were opted and used as assessment techniques to build a dynamic SLB assessment scale. Results: As a preliminary testing, when this assessment scale was applied on non-athlete individuals in the age group of 35 to 50 years old, nine men (Mean body weight = 79 Kg, Mean fat percentage = 32) and five women (Mean body weight = 65 Kg, Mean fat percentage = 36), who have been exercising two to three days per week under the supervision of exercise professional, they displayed excellent SLB in almost all the techniques. Conclusion: It is prudent to utilize this dynamic SLB assessment scale not only to diagnose and quantify SLB performance but also to motivate the individuals by giving the highest rating even if the individuals display precise SLB only after multiple trials and errors. Numerous such simple, inexpensive and non-invasive diagnostic tools are needed in the health education and health care system.
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    Inter-Rater And Intra-Rater Reliabiliy Of Postural Analysis Software (MATLAB 7.11 R2010b)
    (IMED Research Publications, 2020-06) Bindesh D. Patel,; Payal B. Rathi,; Nirav N. Viradiya,
    Introduction: Posture analysis software Matlab 7.11 R2010b is commonly used as a tool for postural assessment. It is easy to use. Nonetheless, reliability studies are lacking. Methods: The study sample consisted of 25 pictures from 25 subjects, and each subject was assessed (1 day interval) by 3 blinded raters and by 1 blind rater for 3 times. Photographs of subject were coded and two variables (Lumbar lordosis and Pelvic tilt) were analyzed. Inter- and intra-rater reliabilities were calculated using intra-class correlation coefficient. Results: The intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) was calculated. We found excellent inter-rater reliability and intra-rater reliability of Posture analysis software Matlab7.11 R2010b for both variables. Discussion: Observation posture analysis is easy but it is less reliable method. It cannot be used to measure progression of posture corrections and for research purpose. Photography method is most reliable method to evaluate posture. There are many softwares available for analysis of posture and Matlab 7.11 R2010b is one of them. In this study we found excellent inter-rater reliability and intra-rater reliability of the software. Conclusion: The postural assessment software Matlab 7.11 R2010b is having excellent inter-rater reliability and intra-rater reliability and should be considered as a reliable tool for postural assessment.
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    Functional Gait Parameters As Objective Assessment Tools In Patients With Chronic Low Back Pain: A Case Study
    (IMED Research Publications, 2019-04) Bani-Ahmed, Ali A.
    We report a 38 yrs old patient with a previously diagnosed Chronic Low Back Pain who became severely functionally impaired as evidenced by the Oswestry Disability Questionnaire (56%). The aim of this study was to introduce changes in functional gait parameters as an assessment tool before and after a single session of Kinesiotape application in a patient with chronic LBP. We introduced, for the first time, gait parameters including the 10-meter walk test and the 6-minute walk test as the functional gait parameters of interest. There was (1) a 25% & 36% increase in normal walking speed and fast walking speed, respectively as evidenced by the 10MWT with 72% decrease in pain and (2) a 86% increase in walking tolerance as evidenced by the 6MWT with 88% decrease in pain. Our data demonstrated for the first time the possible effective use of gait assessment as objective motor performance measures to assess the therapy-induced improvement following therapeutic intervention in patient with chronic low back pain. We hope that these data will act as a starting point for further research to test the potential gait assessment measures to provide a more in-depth objective assessment in response to rehabilitation therapies in chronic low back pain patients.
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    Effectiveness Of Community Based Fitness And Mobility Exercise Program (FAME) In Improving The Health Related Quality Of Life In Subjects With Chronic Stroke
    (IMED Research Publications, 2020-06) S, Doss Prakash; P, Vijay Kumar; B., Kowshik Reddy
    Background: In the rehabilitative management of persons with stroke, more efforts are emphasized to improve motor and cognitive impairments. However, assessment and health promotion of the fitness of stroke patients in a community set up and Quality of life have so far received limited attention. The goal was to determine the efficacy of community based FAME program in patients with chronic stroke. Objectives: To examine the effects of a community-based group exercise program in improving the health related quality of life in subjects with chronic stroke. Design: Randomized control group trial Participants: Fifty eight chronic stroke individuals (aged 45-65 years) who were living in the community. Intervention: Participants were randomized into experimental group (n =29) and control group (n=29). The experimental group underwent a fitness and mobility exercise (FAME) program along with strengthening exercises designed to improve fitness, mobility and quality of life (1-hour sessions, three sessions/week, for 14 weeks). The control group underwent strengthening program. Measurements: The health related quality of life was assessed by SS-QoL (Stroke Specific Quality of Life) in day zero, 8th week and end of 14th week. Results: The experimental group had showed significantly more gains in Quality of Life when compared to control Group. (p<0.001) Conclusion: The FAME program is feasible and beneficial in improving the quality of life and may prevent some of the secondary complications resulting from physical inactivity in older adults living with stroke. It serves as a good model of a community-based fitness program for preventing secondary diseases in older adults living with chronic conditions.
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    Epidemiological Intersection: The Revelation Of Covid – 19 Pandemic
    (IMED Research Publications, 2020-04) Rajkumar, R. Vinodh
    Human existence and their health rely on their intellectual interactions with ecosystem which eventually accompanies brilliant technological innovations. At par with the technological progress, humans also have been facing several intimidating communicable and non-communicable diseases. Amidst such disease threats, humans have discovered multiple ways to uplift the average life span all over the globe but still not up to the fitness benchmarks of healthy ageing trajectory. COVID-19 has specifically revealed the fragility of humans as they continue succumbing exponentially to the interactions of this communicable disease with their existing non-communicable diseases like hypertension, cardiac pathology and diabetes. In human evolution, the COVID-19 pandemic could be the most perfect synapse or intersection of non-communicable diseases with this transmissible disease leading to a situation that can be even named as “Global Medical Stampede” characterized by sudden increase in the number of patients requiring life-saving procedures for which there is lack of adequate manpower and technological support in health care system. This whole chaotic scenario could easily trigger acute psychological and physiological stress primarily caused by fear among the public favoring the frightening consequences of the pandemic. This article aims to suggest refinement in public health paradigms to enable preparations to face such disease threats from the immediate future without further procrastination.
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    Editorial: Physiotherapy Practice Following Covid 19 Pandemic!
    (IMED Research Publications, 2020-06) Venga, Srikanth Babu
    Life after COVID-19 pandemic is not going to be the same, this is a challenging time for many Physiotherapists and other Health care providers. According to World Health Organization (WHO) COVID-19 has led to a Global Pandemic that infected over 6.6 million people worldwide as of 6th June 2020. Many practitioners are facing challenges and economic constraints due to lockdown implemented in many countries. Globally as the situation reaching a plateau and more professionals are returning to work, this is the time for us to be more cautious while attending our clients. As a first line practitioners, Physiotherapists have a high chance of direct contact with the patients that are infected with corona virus. That’s why it is very important for us to be familiar with COVID 19 and ways to prevent its transmission, more updates can get from the World Health organization COVID-19 Technical guidance on infection prevention and control.