The straight leg raising test: its value in differential diagnosis and choice of therapy

Ger Plaatsman, Edward Saulicz, Ewa Żmudzka-Wilczek

Ger Plaatsman, Edward Saulicz, Ewa Żmudzka-Wilczek – The straight leg raising test: its value in differential diagnosis and choice of therapy. Fizjoterapia Polska 2001; 1(4); 414-417

Abstract
Since 2800 BC, when ancient doctors suggested that extension of the leg should be used to examine sprained vertebrae, many authors have given opinion on how to examine disorders in the hip, pelvic and lumbar region by movements of the leg. This article does not attempt to offer yet another interpretation of the Straight Leg Raising test (SLR), but rather a review of several interpretations and differences in the test. Further, we describe the sequence of “diagnosis by treatment” using SLR as a device for differential diagnosis, and how it can help in the choice of technique for therapy.

Key words:
SLR test, physiotherapy, discopathy

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Neurodevelopmental analysis of postural correction exercises

Małgorzata Matyja, Ewa Zmudzka-Wilczek, Barbara Karasz

Małgorzata Matyja, Ewa Zmudzka-Wilczek, Barbara Karasz – Neurodevelopmental analysis of postural correction exercises. Fizjoterapia Polska 2006; 6(3); 251-259

Abstract
Posture correction exercises in posture defects of the body are conducted on the basis of Wiles conception. In this approach the reason for the posture disturbance is abnormal pelvis position and Wiles distinguishes four different types of incorrect posture. The exercises (depending on the type of faulty posture) consist of intensification or relaxation of the appropriate group of muscles and include different types of exercises: breathing, elongation, shoulder girdle, abdominal muscles and back muscles exercises. According to neurodevelopmental approach the posture development in the result of gradual integration of the muscles tone and the postural reflex mechanism. The development of the posture is not connected with the intensification of the particular muscle group but rather with the integration of their functions in righting and equilibrium reactions. In case of postural hipotone the appropriate development of the posture is disturbed and as a consequence children compensate the lack of optimal postural muscle tone by placing particular parts of the body in such a position that makes their functioning easier. In neurodevelopmental approach the abnormal posture is the result of the compensation of postural hipotone. For example the pelvis position can be one of many elements of the compensation, but not the reason for the posture disturbance. The aim of the publication is to present correction exercises, including posture correction exercises (like normalizing postural tone exercises, righting and equilibrium reaction exercises).

Key words:
the body posture, defects of posture, abnormal postural reflex mechanism

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Physical exercises to ameliorate the sequelae of osteoporosis

Agnieszka Nawrat, Ewa Zmudzka-Wilczek

Agnieszka Nawrat, Ewa Zmudzka-Wilczek – Physical exercises to ameliorate the sequelae of osteoporosis. Fizjoterapia Polska 2009; 9(1); 69-74

Abstract
Background. The manifestations of osteoporosis, such as fractures, pain, disorders of gastrointestinal and respiratory function, and postural deformities, become evident only after a number of years. Appropriate and regular physical activity makes it pos-sible to ameliorate these signs and symptoms.The goal of the present study was to determine whether a 3-month bone-strength-ening exercise programme can reduce the negative consequences of osteoporosis by increasing mobility in the joints of the pe/wc and shoulder girdles and the spine and improving rib cage mobility.Materiał and methods. The study was carried out at the St. Elizabeth Centrę in Ruda Śląska and involved 30 patients with osteoporosis confirmed by densitometry The patients were divided into a study group and a control group on the basis of their involvement in the bone-strengthening exercise programme. Both groups underwent physical examinations. The following param-eters were evaluated: raising the upper limb forwards through flexion and sideways through abduction, flexion and abduction of the lower limb, sagittal and forward bending of the trunk (finger-floor test) and mobility of the rib cage. Results. The programme of bone-strengthening exercise was shown not to make a significant difference in the parameters of the locomotor system evaluated. Nevertheless, positive changes had been maintained with a tendency towards improvement in the following parameters: raising the upper limb forwards through flexion (41% improvement), mobility of the rib cage (40% improve-ment), and raising the upper limb sideways through abduction (33% improvement). Conclusions. A programme of physical exercise designed to strengthen bones exerts a positive effect slowing down the pro-gression of osteoporosis and may even improve the patienfs overall musculoskeletal health.
Key words:
physical activity, exercise, osteoporosis
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