Tag: Gabriela Škrečková

The relationship between cognitive functions and postural stability in university students

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Eva Lukáčová, Gabriela Škrečková, Cyril Grus, Matúš Kozel, Jakub Čuj, Rút Lenková – The relationship between cognitive functions and postural stability in university students –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(4); 118-123

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZGA431V3NN

Abstract
Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate the association between cognitive functions and postural stability in university students.
Material and methods: The research sample comprised 40 students from the Faculty of Health Care Professions at the University of Prešov in Prešov (age: 21.08±2.04 years; height: 1.74±0.09 m; weight: 69.93±11.83 kg; BMI: 23.10±2.50 kg/m²), divided by sex into male (n=20; age: 21.00 ±1.84 years; height: 1.74±0.09 m; weight: 78.20±10.18 kg) and female (n=20; age: 21.15 ±2.22 years; height: 1.73±0.09 m; weight: 61.65±7.05 kg). Posturographic parameters like travelled distance and ellipse surface area were assessed using the FootScan® baropodometric platform (Materialise Motion, Paal, Belgium), monitoring latero-lateral and antero-posterior foot loading.
Results: Our analysis revealed significantly higher anterior foot loading (p = 0.01) and sex-specific changes in postural control during cognitive tasks. Men showed increased left lower limb and anterior/forefoot loading across all cognitive tasks (p < 0.05), while women primarily had increased anterior/forefoot loading (p = 0.01) and a significant effect on travelled distance (p = 0.001) during verbal fluency.
Conclusion: The findings of the study indicate a significant association between cognitive functions and postural stability among university students, particularly regarding latero-lateral and antero-posterior loading.
Key words
postural stability, FootScan®, cognitive functions, dual task, baropodometric platform
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Pain therapy in horseback riders – physiotherapeutic intervention

Gabriela Škrečková, Matúš Kozel, Eva Lukáčová, Martina Čerevková, Alexander Kiško

Gabriela Škrečková, Matúš Kozel, Eva Lukáčová, Martina Čerevková, Alexander Kiško – Pain therapy in horseback riders – physiotherapeutic intervention –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(4); 418-422

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG01A8H2J3

Abstract
Introduction. Horseback riding is a complex physical activity that significantly affects a rider’s physical and mental health. Postural insufficiency can have a negative impact on a rider’s physical health as well as their his or her riding technique.
Objective: The objective of the research was to evaluate the effect of a three-month physiotherapy intervention on lower limb stability and mobility, activation of the torso and pelvis muscles, and the reduction of pain in specific areas of the body.
Methods. The study involved 15 non-professional riders with an average age of 25.26 years who had ridden for at least 2 days a week in the last three years. Respondents completed the entry and exit measurements over a span of 3 months. The stability and mobility of the ankle, knee and hip, the ability to generate and maintain intra-abdominal pressure and the incidence of pain in the lumbar area, before and after physiotherapy intervention were evaluated.
Results. After the three-month intervention, there was an improvement in the hip test (FABER), the Varus stress test, the Time and balance and the SEBT test. In the Valgus stress test before and after kinesiological intervention, there was no improvement but no worsening of the condition either. We confirmed the improvement of ankle joint stability with the Time in Balance test (66.67% improvement) and the SEBT test (32.67% improvement). Respondents experienced the greatest pain during the entry measurements in the hip joint (ø 1.53), and the lowest pain experienced during the entry testing was in the ankle joint (ø 0.33). The most significant changes occurred after the lumbar spine intervention.
Conclusion. Improvement of postural stability and posture through compensatory exercises, corrective measures and proper technique is crucial for successful and safe horseback riding.
Key words
Horse rider, physiotherapy, pain, stability
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Comparison of the researched analyses evaluating the physiotherapy of the pain with a cause in the region of the cervical spine

Matúš Kozel, Gabriela Škrečková, Eva Lukáčová, Eleonóra Klímová

 

Matúš Kozel, Gabriela Škrečková, Eva Lukáčová, Eleonóra Klímová – Comparison of the researched analyses evaluating the physiotherapy of the pain with a cause in the region of the cervical spine –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(3); 400-404

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG020AD5K

Abstract:
Introduction. Neck pain is a common musculoskeletal problem. This individual and socio-economic health problem is associated with a reduction in daily activities, a reduction in labour productivity and an impact on quality of life levels.
Objective. To evaluate the effectiveness of the therapy of non-specific pain originating from the cervical region in terms of the applied physiotherapy methods.
Methods. 40 research articles published in 2018-2023 in journals with registration in databases Web of Science, Science Direct and Scopus were included in the research.
Results. The most frequent target studied was the education of patients on ergonomics, correct posture and home exercises. The preparation phase of therapy included the administration of thermotherapy and electrotherapy – ultrasound or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), classical massage, administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The techniques often used were manipulation and/or mobilization, trigger and tender points therapy – acupressure, acupuncture, dry needle application. Among the therapeutic methods, the most frequently chosen are exercises in the form of pilates, yoga, Alexander technique, sensomotor training, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, Jakobson progressive muscle relaxation. Reduction of painful mobility was addressed by the application of local immobilization and kineziotaping.
Conclusion. According to the results of our analysis, the combination of several physiotherapy techniques and methods appears to be significantly effective for reducing pain and improving quality of life.

Keywords:
kinesiotherapy, cervical spine, pain

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Rehabilitation impact on the work ability and functional status of hospitalized COVID-19 survivors

Michal Macej, Gabriela Škrečková, Lucia Demjanovič Kendrová, Pavol Nechvátal, Jakub Čuj

Michal Macej, Gabriela Škrečková, Lucia Demjanovič Kendrová, Pavol Nechvátal, Jakub Čuj – Rehabilitation impact on the work ability and functional status of hospitalized COVID-19 survivors – Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(2); 298-302

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG56088XJ

Abstract
Aim. The aim of the work is to determine the rehabilitation impact on the work ability and functional status of the hospitalized COVID-19 survivors. Materials and methods. The study covered 163 probands (101 women; 62 men) from the Prešov Region (Slovakia) that were hospitalized with COVID-19 disease. Age of the subjects ranged from 32 to 62 years. The experimental group contained 87 patients (55 women; 32 men) and underwent inpatient rehabilitation treatment during their stay in the hospital. The control group consisted of 76 patients (46 women; 30 men), who were not provided with the rehabilitation treatment. In all probands we assessed the work ability index (WAI) and a Patient self-report methods for the Post-Covid-19 Functional Status Scale (PCFS). Results. The experimental group of patients after returning to work showed significantly higher work ability (p = 0.005) and functional status (p = 0.001) compared to the control group. Patients with psychologically demanding type of work that underwent rehabilitation treatment had also significantly higher work ability (p = 0.022) and functional status (p = 0.042) compared with the other group. Similar results were recorded among the probands with a combination of both types of work – physically and psychologically demanding (p < 0.001). In the physically demanding type of work the result was not statistically significant between the groups. Conclusions. The inpatient form of rehabilitation for the patients hospitalized with COVID-19 has a beneficial effect on the work ability and functional status after discharge from the hospital.
Keywords
COVID-19, functional status, rehabilitation, work ability
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The effect of physical activity on selected somatic characteristics of older school bound children

Eva Lukáčová, Gabriela Škrečková, Matúš Kozel

Eva Lukáčová, Gabriela Škrečková, Matúš Kozel – The effect of physical activity on selected somatic characteristics of older school bound children –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(2); 77-82

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG5608C8G

Abstract
Objective. The aim of the study was to investigate the level and frequency of physical activity of older school-bound children and its effect on posture and muscle imbalance. Methods. 453 children aged between 13 and 15 years participated in this study. The examinations were carried out in the selected primary schools in the Eastern Slovakia. The quality of the postural system was assessed by the methodology of Jaroš and Lomnička. Muscle imbalance was assessed by standardized manual tests of Professor Janda. We determined the level of statistical significance at p = 0.05. Results. The outcome of our observation of the whole group was following: 59.8% of children have flaccid posture and 22.1% of children have poor posture. The most affected segment was the lower limb posture, which showed a statistically significant difference between the groups with the level of physical activity at the significance level of p = 0.030. The mean values of 2.77 (± 0.78) were the highest in the group of children with recreational sport activities.. A statistically significant difference was observed in the muscle group scores of m. trapesius l.dx. at the significance level p = 0.002, mm. pectorales l.dx. at the significance level p = 0.002, mm. pectorales l.sin. at the significance level p = 0.006, while the mean values in the degree of shortening were the highest in the group of children without physical activity. When looking at the effect of physical activity on the degree of weakening of muscle strength, we found out statistically significant differences in the scores of all selected muscle groups, with the lowest mean values in the group of children without physical activity. Conclusion. In clinical practice, we recommend regular screening of children’s posture, increasing the frequency of spontaneous and controlled physical activity in school and out-of-school settings.
Keywords
school age, physical activity, posture
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Monitoring and evaluation of flat-feet in children of pre-school age and younger school age

Matúš Kozel, Gabriela Škrečková, Eva Lukáčová, Cyril Grus

 

Matúš Kozel, Gabriela Škrečková, Eva Lukáčová, Cyril Grus – Monitoring and evaluation of flat-feet in children of pre-school age and younger school age. Fizjoterapia Polska 2023; 23(4); 144-148

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG20AF33

Abstract
Background. The issue of flat-feet in children of pre-school and younger school age has been a frequently discussed issue in recent times. This issue has been addressed in particular with regard to the deteriorating physical fitness and general health of children. The lack of sensory stimuli from the foot causes incorrect development of the arch of the foot, which later becomes apparent in other parts of the support-movement system.
Objective. The aim of the study was to monitor the current condition of flat-feet in children.
Method. In our study we observed the occurrence of flat-feet in children of pre-school (n:37; age ø: 5,22) and younger school age (n:52; age ø: 7,45). The study enrolled children of pre-school and younger school age between five and nine years of age. We used the examination device Podoscope to examine the condition of the arch of the foot. We used the subjective method Chipaux – Šmířák (CSI) to evaluate the fingerprints. For each child, both feet were always compared. The results were evaluated with descriptive statistics.
Results. We found that 70.79% of all children have a normally shaped longitudinal arch on both feet. In the preschool year, the percentage of normal arch on both feet indicates 64.86% of all children. In primary school children, the figure is 73.08%. Among preschool and school age children, there was also a high foot, which was found on both feet in 8 out of 89 children. Flat-foot was found on both feet in 6.74% of the participants. 8.11% of kindergarten children had a flat-foot on both feet. In 5.77% of primary school pupils, a bipedal flat-foot was found.
Conclusion. The arch of the foot shapes with age. However, it cannot be said that it always shapes into a physiologically correct shape in every circumstance. In kindergarten children, flat-foot predominates because children attending this facility have not yet had time to fully form the arch. It is necessary to consider which year the children attend. In younger school age pupils, i.e. first to fourth grades, all three types of arch of the foot are present.
Keywords
flat-foot, pre-school age, younger school age
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Monitoring of physical activity of patients with essential hypertension by the Actigraph accelerator – the influence of the environment

Gabriela Škrečková, Eva Lukáčová

 

Gabriela Škrečková, Eva Lukáčová – Monitoring of physical activity of patients with essential hypertension by the Actigraph accelerator – the influence of the environment. Fizjoterapia Polska 2023; 23(2); 162-167

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG0DF153

Abstract
Background. The environment is an important determinant of physical behaviour and also affects the quality of life. A healthy lifestyle is considered to be the simplest form of hypertension prevention and therapy.
Objective. The aim of our study was to find the correlation of physical behaviour of patients with essential hypertension depending on the environment.
Method: We monitored the physical activity (PA) of 60 hypertensive patients from urban (n: 30) and rural (n: 30) environments with Actigraph accelerator. The average blood pressure values of the respondents were SBP 147 mmHg (± 8.24) and DBP 92.08 mmHg (± 8.08). Actigraph evaluated physical behaviour in the form of: sitting during the day, light, moderate and high physical activity (min/week) and steps (steps/week). The quality of life of the respondents was assessed by the Quality-of-Life SF36 – short version questionnaire.
Results. We confirm the statistically significant difference between hypertensive patients from urban and rural environments in the following categories: sitting during the day (p = 0.000052), light PA (p = 0.022009), medium PA (p = 0.0012 steps (p = 0.006993). Comparing the Quality-of-Life SF 36 questionnaire data, we find a worse quality of life in hypertensive patients living in rural areas (ø 74.40) than in hypertensive patients living in urban areas (ø 78.57).
Conclusion. Hypertensive patients living in rural areas have better physical behaviour than hypertensive patients living in urban areas, but larger population studies are needed to confirm the influence of the environment on physical activity and quality of life.
Key words: hypertension, Actigraph, environment
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Monitoring of functional ability, mobility and quality of life in seniors during the COVID-19 pandemic

Pavol Nechvátal, Lucia Demjanovič Kendrová, Tomáš Uher, Michal Macej, Gabriela Škrečková

 

Pavol Nechvátal, Lucia Demjanovič Kendrová, Tomáš Uher, Michal Macej, Gabriela Škrečková – Monitoring of functional ability, mobility and quality of life in seniors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Fizjoterapia Polska 2023; 23(2); 92-95

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG0DFB8A

 

Abstract
Aim. The aim of the work is to map the functional fitness, level of mobility and quality of life of seniors at the time of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods. The study group consisted of 130 seniors from the Prešov Region, with an average age of 74.1 (max. 94, min. 65) years and an average Body Mass Index (BMI) of 27.13 (max. 41.09, min 16.00). There were 54 men (41.5%), with an average age of 74.3 years and an average BMI of 26.78, women with an average age of 74.0 years and an average BMI of 27.37. In all seniors we assessed physical fitness by Senior Fitness Test, level of mobility by the Up & go test and quality of life and mental health by the WHOQOL-BREF test during the lockdown in COVID-19 pandemic.
Results. Seniors living in rural areas (t = -2,341; p = 0.020) and living alone (t = -2.05; p = 0.042) had slightly higher rate of mild obesity (according to BMI). Seniors living alone had a lower quality of life compared with seniors living partner or family member (t = 3.728; p < 0.001). Finally, seniors living in rurar areas had worse physical (t = 3.113; p = 0.002) and mental health status (t = 2.601; p = 0.010). Women had slightly worse mental health status than men (t = 2.308; p = 0.022).
Conclusions. Restrictions on movement due to the COVID-19 pandemic put seniors who live alone, at risk, especially women. Men show higher resistance to these measures, mostly in physical and psychological health area.
Key words:
COVID-19, movement activity, physical fitness, quality of life, seniors
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The occurence of postural disorders and muscular imbalance in children from urban and rural environment

Eva Lukáčová, Gabriela Škrečková, Lucia Demjanovič Kendrová


Eva Lukáčová, Gabriela Škrečková, Lucia Demjanovič Kendrová – The occurence of postural disorders and muscular imbalance in children from urban and rural environment. Fizjoterapia Polska 2022; 22(5); 116-120

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG20Az2j

Abstract

Background. Postural examination is considered to be one of the most important parts of the general examination and is therefore the basis for correct diagnosis and determining preventive measures or appropriate treatment procedures.
Objective. The aim of the study was to evaluate the functional status of school-aged children.
Methods: The study was carried out at selected primary schools in Slovakia, we examined 453 children. We assessed the quality of the postural system according to Thomas Klein´s evaluation, modified by Mayer, the presence of shortened and weakened muscles according to Janda. The following measurements were used to assess the range of motion of the spine: Otto’s inclination and reclination distance, Schober’s distance, Stibor’s distance and Thomayer’s distance.
Results. A statistically significant difference was found in the examination of gluteal muscles strength l.dx. (p = 0.03), gluteal muscles l.sin. (p ≤ 0.001), with the children from urban environment having, on average, lower muscle strength. Statistically significant differences were found in the evaluation of m. trapesiusl.dx. at significance level p = 0.04, m. trapesiusl.sin. at the level of significance p ≤ 0,001, with higher average values found in children from the urban environment.
Conclusion. Children from countryside show better postural outcomes and exhibit fewer postural disturbances than children from city backgrounds.

Keywords:
school age, postural disorders, muscular imbalance

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Physical activity of people representing various age groups, with particular emphasis on the inhabitants of Poland and Slovakia

Sabina Lizis, Gabriela Škrečková


Sabina Lizis, Gabriela Škrečková – Physical activity of people representing various age groups, with particular emphasis on the inhabitants of Poland and Slovakia. Fizjoterapia Polska 2022; 22(3); 24-28

Abstract
The development of civilization and technical progress on the one hand provides many amenities, and on the other hand limits the natural need for movement. Awareness of the importance of physical activity in human life can be a factor in preventing sedenteric lifestyle. The paper reviews literature on physical activity and the frequency with which it is undertaken by people representing different age groups, with particular emphasis on the inhabitants of Poland and Slovakia. A review of scientific publications indicates that physical activity is one of the most important factors conditioning health, so you should take care of it at every stage of life. It is worth remembering the need to individually adjust the type and intensity of physical activity so that it is safe and gives the most health benefits. Physical activity undertaken from an early age and the positive experiences related to it, shape the habits that favor maintaining a healthy lifestyle in the later stages of life. There is a need to take actions aimed at popularizing physical activity as one of the elements of a healthy lifestyle.

Key words:
recreation, psychophysical health, health education

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