A narrative review on the role of physiotherapy in musculoskeletal disorders

Hind Humid Alshuweihi, Alham Al-Sharman, Walid Kamal Abdelbasset

 

Hind Humid Alshuweihi, Alham Al-Sharman, Walid Kamal Abdelbasset – A narrative review on the role of physiotherapy in musculoskeletal disorders –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(3); 367-372

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG020AK7N

Abstract:
Musculoskeletal disorders encompass a broad range of conditions affecting the bones, muscles, joints, ligaments, and tendons throughout the body. These disorders can result from various causes, including injury, overuse, aging, genetic predisposition, and systemic diseases such as arthritis. Management of musculoskeletal disorders typically involves a multidisciplinary approach, including medical interventions, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, pain management, and lifestyle modifications. Treatment aims to relieve symptoms, improve function, prevent further damage, and enhance overall well-being. This review explores the role of physiotherapy in the management of musculoskeletal disorders, offering interventions such as exercise therapy, manual therapy, modalities, and patient education. Physiotherapists tailor treatment plans to address individual needs, promote recovery, and optimize long-term outcomes. Prevention strategies, including maintaining a healthy lifestyle, proper ergonomics, regular exercise, and injury prevention programs, are essential for reducing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. Several studies showed the efficacy of physiotherapy for musculoskeletal disorders and the wealth of evidence from studies supports the integration of physiotherapy alongside physician-led care as an effective approach for treating musculoskeletal disorders, resulting in improved outcomes, reduced healthcare utilization, enhanced patient satisfaction, and long-term benefits for patients.
Overall, early diagnosis, comprehensive treatment, and ongoing management are key to effectively managing musculoskeletal disorders and improving the quality of life for individuals affected by these conditions.

Keywords:
musculoskeletal disorders, physiotherapy, exercise

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The impact of physiotherapeutic management based on selected neurophysiological assessment methods on the quality of life and functional status in a patient after C1 and C2 level trauma: A Case Study

Przemysław Wdowiak, Karolina Karska, Katarzyna Słowińska-Karska, Agnieszka Dębiec­Bąk, Marzena Supińska

 

Przemysław Wdowiak, Karolina Karska, Katarzyna Słowińska-Karska, Agnieszka Dębiec­Bąk, Marzena Supińska – The impact of physiotherapeutic management based on selected neurophysiological assessment methods on the quality of life and functional status in a patient after C1 and C2 level trauma: A Case Study –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(3); 6-14

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG020AR37

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is frequently linked to chronic disorders that cause functional challenges in the sensorimotor system. Early, comprehensive, and continuous physiotherapy after spinal cord injury, starting from the preoperative stage, through several years improves the patient’s functional status and independence. Material and methods: The patient is a 51‑year‑old miner hospitalized in the Neurosurgical Department of 4WSKzP in Wrocław. He suffered a cervical spine injury in a mining accident. Moreover, he was found to have a type III odontoid fracture with intramedullary displacement (1.2 cm) and an atlas arch fracture without displacement. The patient’s functional status was assessed using: SCIM III, ASIA, and FIM scales.The aim of the study: The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of 4 years of physiotherapy based on neurophysiological methods and its benefits for a patient after spinal cord injury at the C1 and C2 levels. Results: During the first 36 months of therapy, a marked improvement in sensation was observed, with a slight dominance on the left side until the 24th month, followed by stabilization of the values. In the third month, a consistent increase in the muscle strength of both upper extremities was noted, showing a steady linear progression. Independence in daily activities, scored according to the FIM scale, also showed improvement in parameters until the 48th month of therapy. Independence in self-care, scored according to the SCIM III scale, was at 14 points until the first year of treatment, and reached 20 points by the end of the therapy. Assessment of respiratory function and sphincter control, allows us to conclude that the greatest improvement was achieved in the first 3 months of continuous treatment, i.e. from 0 to 17 points, after 12 months; 23, after 48 months the patient scored a total of 40 points. In terms of transfers in the home environment, improvements were observed up to the 12th month of therapy. The greatest rate of change in mobility was observed during the first 2 years of treatment. At 36 and 48 months of therapy, the improvement in mobility maintained a modest increasing trend. Conclusions: A beneficial effect of 4 years of physiotherapy was observed in the functional status and independence of the patient after severe SCI. As a result, he was able to drive a passenger car independently.

Keywords:

spinal cord injury, physiotherapy, neurophysiological methods

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Virtual reality training combined with physical therapy program for children with tibial eminence fracture: a randomized controlled trial

Amira. H. Mohammed, Samah. M. Sheha, Nader. I. Elsayed, Amira M. El-Gendy, Nehad A. Abo-zaid

Amira. H. Mohammed, Samah. M. Sheha, Nader. I. Elsayed, Amira M. El-Gendy, Nehad A. Abo-zaid – Virtual reality training combined with physical therapy program for children with tibial eminence fracture: a randomized controlled trial – Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(2); 383-391

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG5608E5F

Abstract
Background. Tibial eminence fracture is an injury referred to the interarticular portion of the neighbouring plateau of the tibia. Non-operative treatment is recommended for type I and II. The study aimed to investigate the effect of virtual reality (VR) training combined with a physical therapy program (PTP) in the management of children after tibial eminence fractures. Methods. Forty eight children suffering from tibial eminence fracture (type I and type II). Their age ranged from 7 to 14 years old. The control group (G1) received only a physiotherapy program (PTP) and the experimental group (G2) received the same PTP plus virtual reality (VR) in form of Wii Sport Training. Both groups received the treatment protocol for six successive months (3 sessions per week). Participants were assessed before and after the treatment for six successive months. The outcomes were range of motion (ROM) of knee joint using goniometry, knee pain using the visual analogue scale (VAS) and balance by Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS). Results. Post-treatment, there was a a statistically substantial difference in pain, PBS, knee flexion and extension ROM in both groups (P-value < 0.05). Also, there was a statistically substantial difference in PBS and knee flexion ROM between the two groups (P-value < 0.05), favouring the VR group. Conclusions. These findings from this study reveal the value of physical therapy combined with VR in the rehabilitation of children with tibial eminence fractures. Virtual reality used in conjunction with PTP enhances those children’s knee range of motion and body stability.
Key words
tibial eminence fracture, physical therapy, virtual reality
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Post-operative rehabilitation and return to sport criteria following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction – a survey of physiotherapists in the United Arab Emirates

Sara Atef Ali, Cecilia Ferreira Aquino, Achraf Ammar, Ashokan Arumugam

Sara Atef Ali, Cecilia Ferreira Aquino, Achraf Ammar, Ashokan Arumugam – Post-operative rehabilitation and return to sport criteria following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction – a survey of physiotherapists in the United Arab Emirates – Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(2); 344-355

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG5608IV0

Abstract
Background. The rehabilitation and return to sport (RTS) criteria used after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction seem to vary between physiotherapists in different countries. However, no study has been conducted to investigate the post-operative rehabilitation and RTS criteria following ACL reconstruction used by physiotherapists in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Aim. The purpose of this study is to summarize the clinical practice and RTS criteria used by physiotherapists treating patients following ACL reconstruction in the UAE, and to investigate the factors associated with the commonly used RTS criteria.
Material and methods. An electronic survey questionnaire was distributed to UAE physiotherapists. The questionnaire included questions related to demographic information, clinical practice, and RTS criteria employed by UAE physiotherapists.
Results. A total of 108 physiotherapists voluntarily participated in the study. Approximately only 25% adhered to the established RTS criteria before RTS. About 88% of physiotherapists base their clearance decisions on how well they do in functional assessments like balance checks, hop tests, and running and sprinting biomechanics. A multidisciplinary team decided on the RTS clearance, according to 47% of physiotherapists. The most often utilized RTS criteria did not significantly correlate with parameters including academic standing, years of experience, nationality, specialty certification, or the type of license held by UAE physiotherapists, according to the study.
Conclusion. Most physiotherapists in the UAE were not adhering to the most recommended RTS criteria post-ACL reconstruction in their clinical practice, and none of the evaluated physiotherapist-related factors showed a significant association with RTS criteria following ACL reconstruction.
Keywords
anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, rehabilitation, clinical decision-making, physical therapy, return to sport criteria
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Exploring physiotherapy interventions for chronic back pain: the role of shockwave therapy

Maram Maki, Shima A. Mohammad Zadeh, Tamer M. Shousha

Maram Maki, Shima A. Mohammad Zadeh, Tamer M. Shousha – Exploring physiotherapy interventions for chronic back pain: the role of shockwave therapy – Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(2); 178-182

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG5608NP7

Abstract
Chronic nonspecific low back pain (LBP) poses a significant global health challenge, necessitating multifaceted interventions for effective management. Physiotherapy, with its integrated approach, plays a pivotal role in addressing the complexity of chronic LBP, employing diverse modalities such as exercise and movement therapy, manual therapies, and education combined with lifestyle modifications. Cognitive Functional Therapy (CFT) has emerged as a promising, patient-centered intervention, emphasizing the importance of a personalized approach. However, challenges persist in delivering efficient, individualized treatments, leading to potential excess or inadequacy of interventions. Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) has garnered attention as an emerging therapeutic intervention for chronic back pain, employing high-energy shockwaves to stimulate healing processes and alleviate pain. While ESWT shows promise in treating musculoskeletal conditions and inducing favorable effects in various studies, its specific application for chronic low back pain lacks comprehensive randomized clinical trials, especially concerning radial ESWT. The current body of evidence, often falling short of the highest standards of Evidence-Based Physiotherapy, poses challenges in objectively assessing the clinical effectiveness of widely practiced ESWT procedures for chronic low back pain. In conclusion, while physiotherapy remains integral for managing chronic nonspecific low back pain, including diverse interventions, the specific role and effectiveness of shockwave therapy, particularly in the context of chronic back pain, necessitate further robust research and clinical investigations. This review highlights the need for comprehensive studies to ascertain the clinical efficacy and optimal application of shockwave therapy within physiotherapy protocols for long-term pain management.
Keywords
low back pain, shockwave therapy, physiotherapy
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Physiotherapy for individuals with intellectual disabilities

Damian Durlak

 

Damian Durlak – Physiotherapy for individuals with intellectual disabilities –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(1); 78-82

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG2EF8AB4

Abstract
Intellectual disability affects 1 to 3% of the population, with a_higher percentage among residents of developing countries. Due to the possible occurrence of movement limitations in individuals with intellectual disabilities, physiotherapy can be an invaluable element of patient support for better functioning. However, understanding the key issues in working with patients from this group is necessary. This article is dedicated to introducing the topic of intellectual disability and the issues that physiotherapists should pay attention to when providing health services.
Key words:
physiotherapy, intellectual disability, disability
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Within the National Health Fund (NFZ) or privately? Advantages and disadvantages of the physiotherapy services system

Józefa Dąbek, Barbara Hebenstreit, Oliwia Kabalak, Monika Janowska, Magdalena Szynal, Halina Kulik

Józefa Dąbek, Barbara Hebenstreit, Oliwia Kabalak, Monika Janowska, Magdalena Szynal, Halina Kulik – Within the National Health Fund (NFZ) or privately? Advantages and disadvantages of the physiotherapy services system . Fizjoterapia Polska 2023; 23(5); 258-274

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG20BD9s

Abstract
Introduction. With the entry into force of the Act on the Physiotherapist Profession, the profession of physiotherapist became an independent medical profession. The amendment to the Act in 2019 significantly expanded the scope of competences of contractors of the mentioned profession and strengthened its position in the health care system
The aim of the study was to analyze the use of the physiotherapy services system within public and private health care.
Material and methods. A total of 606 people (100%) were included in the study. The vast majority were women (506; 83.5%). The average age of the respondents was 28 years. The research tool was an original survey questionnaire created and made available via a Google form.
Results. The most frequently used physiotherapy treatments within public health care included physical therapy (129; 34%) and kinesiotherapy (109; 28.8%), and the most frequently indicated reason for using the mentioned form was an injury or accident (83; 38.4%) and lifestyle-related pain (60; 27.8%). Most respondents considered the advantage of physiotherapy services provided as part of public health care to be the lack of fees for the visit (153; 63%) and the possibility of using the services of qualified specialists (42; 17.3%), while the greatest disadvantage was the long waiting time for the visit (138; 35.9%) and insufficient equipment of facilities (67; 17.4%). The most frequently used physiotherapy services in the private sector included: massage (179; 27.8%) and manual therapy (136; 21.1%), and the most common reasons for using these services were lifestyle-related pain (133; 36, 3%) and injury or accident (112; 30.6%). Most people considered short waiting times for services (218; 22.2%) and the involvement of a physiotherapist (211; 21.5%) as the greatest advantages of commercial services, and high prices of services (196; 61.1%) – a disadvantage.
Conclusions
1. More than half of the people included in the study used physiotherapy services, including the vast majority – commercial services.
2. Differences were observed regarding the reasons for using physiotherapy services and the type of therapies used in public and private health care: public services were most often used by the respondents due to an injury or accident, while private services were used due to lifestyle-related pain, and the respondents most often used public physiotherapy services included physical therapy and kinesiotherapy, while in the private sector: massage and manual therapy.
3. Most respondents considered the advantage of physiotherapy services provided within public health care the lack of fees for a visit and the possibility of using the services of qualified specialists, while in the private sector – short waiting times for services and greater involvement of the physiotherapist.
4. According to the respondents, the disadvantages of physiotherapy services within public health care were long waiting times for therapy and insufficient equipment of the facility, and in the private sector – high prices of services.

Key words:
physiotherapy, public sector, private sector

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The impact of physical activity on the functional status of patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) – A literature review

Bernadeta Piwowar-Kuczyńska, Monika Urbaniak, Michał Zabojszcz, Mateusz Curyło

 

Bernadeta Piwowar-Kuczyńska, Monika Urbaniak, Michał Zabojszcz, Mateusz Curyło – The impact of physical activity on the functional status of patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) – A literature review. Fizjoterapia Polska 2023; 23(4); 202-206

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG20A311

Abstract
Introduction. Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is one of the most common rheumatoid diseases. In the course of this disease, the musculoskeletal system is mainly involved. The treatment process should take into an account the patient’s current general condition, disease progression and function.
Aim of the study. The purpose of this study was to attempt to assess the effect of physical activity on the functional status of patients with ankylosing spondylitis based on the available literature.
Material and methods. The available literature was analyzed based on English-language databases PubMed, ScienceDirect and others, using the Google Scholar search engine. Seventeen articles were analyzed out of 55 retrieved by the above method.  Publications published up to 10/10/2023 were used as search criteria using the following keywords: ankylosing spondylitis, physical activity, physiotherapy.
Results. For the most part, physical activity performed by patients with AS appears to be effective in improving their function. Additional studies are needed to determine more clearly the effect of unguided exercise on this group of patients.
Conclusions. Contemporary studies indicate that patient-performed physical activity mostly appears to be effective in the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis. The results of studies on the effectiveness of the use of unguided exercise by patients are divergent. They indicate both high and low effectiveness depending on the study conducted. Further research in this area is needed to draw more firm conclusions.
Key words:
ankylosing spondylitis, physical activity, physiotherapy
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The application of console games – exergames in cardiac rehabilitation: a pilot study

Kamil Szcześniak, Iwona Sarna, Anna Mierzyńska, Rafał Dąbrowski, Edyta Smolis-Bąk

 

Kamil Szcześniak, Iwona Sarna, Anna Mierzyńska, Rafał Dąbrowski, Edyta Smolis-Bąk– The application of console games – exergames in cardiac rehabilitation: a pilot study. Fizjoterapia Polska 2023; 23(4); 182-191

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG20AR1N

Abstract
Introduction. Too many people avoid regular physical activity, and therefore various strategies are taken to increase their motivation. In recent years, exercising with the use of console games, i.e. exergames, has gained popularity.
Material & Methods. The study included patients referred for an early post-hospital inpatient rehabilitation. All subjects participated in endurance training on cycle ergometers and in fitness exercises (dynamic, stretching, coordination, balance) with elements of resistance training 5 times per week. In the test group, the rehabilitation program was complemented with training with ActivLife equipment. Training sessions took place every day, 5 times a week. They involved training program consisting of 7 exercises that develop motor abilities: coordination, strength and balance in the form of activities similar to traditional exercises – squats, lateral flexion, three-plane movements of the upper limbs and torso deflections in sagittal plane. Trainings lasted from 15 to 20 minutes.
Results. After rehabilitation significant improvement of exertion tolerance was observed in patients in both groups in the following tests: 6MWT [m] – test group: 369 vs 426, p < 0.05, control group: 341 vs 434, p < 0.001; test of strength of the muscles in the lower limbs [number of repetitions/30s] were: test group: 11.4 vs 13.6, p < 0.001, control group: 9.9 vs 13.1, p < 0.001 and in the Up&Go Test [s]: test group 7.8 vs 6.7, p < 0.01, control group 8.4 vs 7.3, p < 0.01.
Conclusions. Interactive console games are evaluated by cardiac patients as an attractive, safe, and useful method of exercising. Training with the use of the ActivLife equipment has proved to be as effective as traditional exercises.
Key words:
exergames, cardiac rehabilitation, cardiology, physiotherapy, exercise
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Effect of eccentric exercise and shock wave therapy in patients with Achilles tendinopathy – a review of the literature

Bernadeta Piwowar-Kuczyńska, Monika Urbaniak, Mateusz Curyło

 

Bernadeta Piwowar-Kuczyńska, Monika Urbaniak, Mateusz Curyło – Effect of eccentric exercise and shock wave therapy in patients with Achilles tendinopathy – a review of the literature. Fizjoterapia Polska 2023; 23(4); 92-96

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG20A1BB

Abstract
Aim of study. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of training using eccentric exercises and shock wave therapy in people with Achilles tendinopathy.
Material and methods. The available literature was analyzed based on English-language databases PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Medline and others, using the Google Scholar search engine. Twenty articles were analyzed out of 120 retrieved by the above method. Publications published up to 24/09/2023 were used, using the following keywords: Achilles tendinopathy, physiotherapy, shock wave, Alfredson protocol, eccentric exercises.
Results: After analyzing the papers, it was noted that eccentric exercises based on the Alfredson protocol are effective in the treatment of Achilles tendinopathy. Shock wave therapy appears to be a mostly safe and effective form of treatment.
Conclusions. Contemporary research indicates that conservative treatment methods in the form of eccentric exercises and shock wave therapy appear to be effective in the treatment of Achilles tendinopathy. Although studies on the effectiveness of using shock wave therapy are of low quality for the most part, it appears to be a safe and effective form of treatment for Achilles tendinopathy.
Key words:
Achilles tendinopathy, physiotherapy, shock wave, Alfredson protocol, eccentric exercises
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