Feedback in postural retraining

Janusz Nowotny

Janusz Nowotny – Feedback in postural retraining. Fizjoterapia Polska 2001; 1(1); 51-58

Abstract
Background. So-called corrective exercises are usually the primary treatment for children and youths with various disorders of body posture. The active correction of incorrect body posture is sometimes impossible because the child cannot feel its body positioning in space. For this reason exercises are often unsuccessful.Results. One can make good these shortages by using exercises supported by biofeedback. The basics of treatment supported by biofeedback are presented in the article. Various kinds of corrective exercises based on biofeedback are presented. Special devises for these exercises are also described.

Key words:
correction of postural defects, Exercise, substitute feedback

Invalid download ID. Pobierz bezpłatnie artykuł w j. angielskim

A modification of point scoring of posture useful in screening examinations

Janusz Nowotny, Karol Ptaszek, Włodzimierz Kramarz

Janusz Nowotny, Karol Ptaszek, Włodzimierz Kramarz – A modification of point scoring of posture useful in screening examinations. Fizjoterapia Polska 2001; 1(4); 409-413

Abstract
There are a number of possible abnormalities in the locomotor apparatus which, if not diagnosed sufficiently and properly treated, may produce significant dysfunctions in locomotion, and even serious systemic consequences. This problem becomes particular vital when the given abnormality occurs in a significant percentage of the population, develops insidiously, and in addition tends to promote other abnormalities, when it affects young persons in the growth years. This has provided the impetus to undertake screening tests as a precondition of sorts for early physiotherapeutic intervention. The group of disorders in question includes deviations from proper posture. As a result, a number of methods to evaluate posture have been developed over the years, but only a few of them are suitable for large-scale screening tests. The authors have thus developed a posture evaluation system that is suitable for this type of testing, built on the foundation of routine orthopedic testing. In order to achieve complete quantification of the results, we modified the point scale to express numerically the degree of severity of the deviations found. Individual test results are read out into a computer and sent to the appropriate data base. A specially developed computer program makes it possible, then, to generate an individual test protocol. An even more essential feature is that it is possible to create various kinds of statistical reports, constructed to fit the present realities of the health care system for children and youth. Among other things, these reports may be useful not only to create appropriate dispensary groups and organize suitable health care in schools, but also to provide primary and specialized medical care.

Key words:
score evaluation of posture, screening studies

Invalid download ID. Pobierz bezpłatnie artykuł w j. angielskim

The impact of lower limb compensation on the quality of posture in children and youth with scoliosis

Mariola Saulicz, Edward Saulicz, Janusz Nowotny, Bogdan Bacik

Mariola Saulicz, Edward Saulicz, Janusz Nowotny, Bogdan Bacik – The impact of lower limb compensation on the quality of posture in children and youth with scoliosis. Fizjoterapia Polska 2001; 1(4); 376-380

Abstract
Background. The use of orthopedic inserts to either correct true or pseudo-anisomelia or to help correct disordered body statics is a method of controlled external compensation often used in the corrective therapy of scoliosis. It has been proven that the use of orthopedic inserts to correct pseudo-anisomelia may lead to serious decompensation of the defect. These observation pertain to advanced structural distortion. The aim of this article, then, is to present a three-surface analysis of the influence of orthopedic inserts, lengthening one of the limbs, on the quality of the posture of children and youth with scoliosis. This analysis involved less advanced irregularities, which means that they had a larger component of functional changes and considerably greater corrective potential. Material and methods. The research was performed on a group of 82 children and young people ranging in age from 6 to 19 years (x = 12.0 +/- 3.1) who had the clinical symptoms of first-or second-grade scoliosis (x Cobb’s deviation = 22.8 +/- 9.5). The analysis pertained only to those children who had been advised to use leveling orthopedic inserts. The evaluation of posture was carried out twice – with and without an insert – using a computer set for testing body posture. Results. As essential connection was found between the height of the insert and the reduction of some of the first-, second-, and third-class characteristics of scoliosis. The improvement of body posture quality affected especially the frontal plane, and was accompanied by essential changes in the sagittal plane. In the transverse plane no univocally positive changes of body posture were recorded.

Key words:
anisomelia, leveling orthopedic inserts, controlled external compensationa

Invalid download ID. Pobierz bezpłatnie artykuł w j. angielskim

The impact of selected correctional exercises on changes in the bioelectrical activity of muscles on both sides of the primary scoliosis

Krystyna Kwaśny, Janusz Nowotny, Edward Saulicz

Krystyna Kwaśny, Janusz Nowotny, Edward Saulicz – The impact of selected correctional exercises on changes in the bioelectrical activity of muscles on both sides of the primary scoliosis. Fizjoterapia Polska 2002; 2(3); 199-202

Abstract
Background. The bioelectrical activity of the spinal muscles was evaluated, as expressed by the frequency of the biopotentials, their average amplitude, and the number of returns on either side of the primary scoliosis. Material and methods. Our research involved 110 boys and girls aged 6 to 16, with a clinical diagnosis of scoliosis. The measurements were made in a relaxed position during an attempt at active correction and in the course of performing certain corrective exercises. Both symmetric and asymmetric exercises were chose for this analysis. Some exercises were conducted with additional information provided about the degree of fault correction through monitoring, light signals, and sound signals. A computer EMG set was used, composed of a 4-channel „Medicor MG-440” electromyograph equipped with a digital analogue, cooperating with a computer appropriately programmed for the automatic analysis of integrated electromyograms. Results. The results we obtained indicate certain corrective potential, expressed by the symmetrization of bioelectric muscle activity in the course of an attempt at active correction of scoliosis. The suitability of the majority of the analyzed corrective exercises was also indicated in the normalization of muscle tension on both sides of the curvature, and especially those which additionally use the mechanism of substitute feedback.

Key words:
Scoliosis, electromiography, biopotentials

Invalid download ID. Pobierz bezpłatnie artykuł w j. angielskim

An evaluation of gait disturbances in children undergoing rehabilitation for cerebral palsy

Janusz Nowotny, Krzysztof Czupryna, Jacek Sołtys

Janusz Nowotny, Krzysztof Czupryna, Jacek Sołtys – An evaluation of gait disturbances in children undergoing rehabilitation for cerebral palsy. Fizjoterapia Polska 2003; 3(2); 189-196

Abstract
Cerebral palsy (CP) belongs to the group of dysfunctions in which impairment of the gait function is a constant element. The goal in rehabilitation is to steer the process of compensation in such a way that the gait pattern produces a minimum of disturbances and limitations in locomotion. Objective evaluation is essential for purposes of planning rehabilitation and monitoring outcome. Since the evaluation of gait can be parameterized, the authors have presenting methods for making such an evaluation, concentrating on two types of tests. The possibility of evaluating gate symmetry is presented, based on the use of the Parotec® system, along with evaluation based on analysis of particular gate markers, using the Zebris system. Certain practical remarks are given in the conclusion, essential for planning and managing the course of rehabilitation for children with cerebral palsy.

Key words:
Cerebral Palsy, evaluation of gait disturbances, rehabilitation

Invalid download ID. Pobierz bezpłatnie artykuł w j. angielskim

Some possibilities for alleviating gait disturbances in children undergoing rehabilitation for cerebral palsy, in the light of baropedographic tests: a preliminary report

Janusz Nowotny, Krzysztof Czupryna, Jerzy Pietruszewski, Małgorzata Matyja

Janusz Nowotny, Krzysztof Czupryna, Jerzy Pietruszewski, Małgorzata Matyja – Some possibilities for alleviating gait disturbances in children undergoing rehabilitation for cerebral palsy, in the light of baropedographic tests: a preliminary report. Fizjoterapia Polska 2003; 3(3); 217-223

Abstract

Background. A pathological gait stereotype often occurs in children with cerebral palsy. The effort is made during rehabilitation to alleviate some of the symptoms, but this requires a precise survey of the component factors involved in the abnormal gait pattern that can be remedied. Atypical methods are sometimes used in rehabilitation, and their suitability also needs objective verification. Material and methods. Our study presents the possibilities for objective gait evaluation using baropedographic tests based on the Parotec® system. The possibilities of improving gait symmetry are also presented, using the example of children undergoing rehabilitation for cerebral palsy who have also been receiving botulin injections or the so-called inhibitive plaster casts. Results and Conclusions. These additional therapeutic devices facilitate further treatment and have a positive impact on improving the symmetry of gait in these children. We also found that this testing can be a valuable source of information for the therapist, pointing out which parameters of abnormal gait should be focused on during further rehabilitation.

Key words:
Cerebral Palsy, evaluation of gait disturbances, botulin, inhibitive plaster casts
Invalid download ID. Pobierz bezpłatnie artykuł w j. angielskim

The idea of movement re-education in physiotherapy

Janusz Nowotny

Janusz Nowotny – The idea of movement re-education in physiotherapy. Fizjoterapia Polska 2004; 4(1); 68-74

Abstract

Movement is an inherent part of human life. Unfortunately, congenital abnormalities, disease or perinatal injury can make it difficult to learn normal movement in the earliest stages of life. On the other hand, an injury or acquired disorder in the later periods of life can ruin learned movement skills, leading to temporary or permanent disability. This necessitates movement re-education, which is one of the major goals of medical rehabilitation. In the daily practice of physiotherapy we often observe a mechanistic approach to treatment, directed towards relieving particular symptoms. The functional results of such an approach are difficult to foresee, but they are usually unfavorable. Although the idea of re-education is reflected in some neuro-muscular methods, many therapists see the necessity of using them only in such states (i.e. neuromuscular disorders), and seem to see no need for broadly conceived movement re-education. In the present study, the author attempts to counteract this approach, showing some of the basic premises for restoring lost skills, in the context of re-learning correct movements, including the basic features of various pathological states that can temporarily or permanently disturb motor control and prevent the complete recovery of health. Particular attention is given to controlling the process of compensation in the earliest stages of dysfunction, and to restoring physiological movement patterns or forming the most suitable functional patterns.

Key words:

physiology of movement, pathophysiology, rehabilitation

Invalid download ID. Pobierz bezpłatnie artykuł w j. angielskim

Restrictions, impediments and requirements in physiotherapy of the elderly

Krzysztof Gieremek, Janusz Nowotny, Tadeusz Szymon Gaździk, Wojciech Cieśla

Krzysztof Gieremek, Janusz Nowotny, Tadeusz Szymon Gaździk, Wojciech Cieśla – Restrictions, impediments and requirements in physiotherapy of the elderly. Fizjoterapia Polska 2007; 7(2), 198-205

Abstract

Aging is an inevitable and dynamic process that leads to a number of adverse changes in both the locomotor system and internal organs as well as the weakening of the body’s regenerative and compensatory abilities. The full recovery of mobility following an illness or dysfunction is difficult and sometimes impossible, affecting the quality of life of the elderly patient. Concomitant psychological problems related to the elderly patient’s attitude to their illness and their expectations about those around them require a modified approach to many aspects of rehabilitation, including physiotherapy, of the elderly. This article describes the tasks that should be addressed in preventative physiotherapy and treatment modalities used in socalled main therapy and secondary prevention of geriatric patients. Emphasis is placed on the principles of planning customised active exercise sessions with particular regard to functional status assessment in individual patients. Besides examples of forms of physical activity and exercise devices for geriatric patients, the article provides comments and descriptions of the most common problems related to selected physiotherapy procedures for the elderly.

Key words:

geriatrics, determinants of physiotherapy, physiotherapy of elderly, kinesitherapy

Invalid download ID. Pobierz bezpłatnie artykuł w j. angielskim

Distribution of body mass on the support base in cerebral motor disorders children as an expression of antigravity unabilities

Andrzej Szopa, Małgorzata Domagalska, Janusz Nowotny

Andrzej Szopa, Małgorzata Domagalska, Janusz Nowotny – Distribution of body mass on the support base in cerebral motor disorders children as an expression of antigravity unabilities. Fizjoterapia Polska 2007; 7(3); 250-257

Abstract
Background. Normal postural tone is high enough to act against gravity at every stage of motor development, but also low enough to ensure mobility in a given position. All disturbances of adaptation of muscle activity to postural and motor tasks are the cardinal symptoms of actual or potential central dysfunctions. This study attempted to use an objective measure of quantified distribution of forces of body mass on the supporting base to examine the adaptation of muscle activity for different postural patterns. Material and methods. Three groups of 15 children each aged about 12 months were examined, including two groups of children diagnosed with dysfunction motorica origis centralis (DMOC) II° and III°, and a control group of children with bronchitis. Measurement were carried out with a Sensor-Mass-System developed by Lack GmbH and including a platform with 200 sensors and dedicated software. All children were tested twice on two consecutive days. The values of forces and distribution of body mass on the supporting base was determined in three basic positions: supine, prone and sitting. Results. A preliminary analysis showed differences in the values of forces of body mass between the three groups. Statistically significant differences between the results of the first and second measurements in the same position were a rule in the control group. In the group of children with mild DMOC pathology such differences appeared slightly less often and were not found in the group of children with severe DMOC. Children with severe DMOC displayed marked asymmetry of body mass distribution in the frontal plane and along the craniocaudal axis. The other groups were generally characterized by symmetrical postural patterns. Conclusions. While this pilot study was part of a more extensive research project, some general conclusions can be made: an evaluation of body weight distribution on a supporting base is an indirect but objective and reproducible tool for evaluating mus-cle tone distribution in different postural patterns. It can be a valuable addition to the assessment of postural pattern quality.
Key words:
cerebral motor disorders, postural patterns, support base, distribution of body mass
Invalid download ID. Pobierz bezpłatnie artykuł w j. angielskim

Changes of skin temperature after ultrasounds continuous and impulse waves

Joanna Szymańska, Janusz Nowotny

Joanna Szymańska, Janusz Nowotny – Changes of skin temperature after ultrasounds continuous and impulse waves. Fizjoterapia Polska 2008; 8(2); 161-169

Abstract
Background. Ultrasounds (UD) are used in medicine from about 70 years. The biological mechanism of ultrasounds is a complex and versatile process and the energy, if absorbed in adequate amount, may activate many reactions in tissues. UD have thermal and post-thermal effects and are regarded as the most important deeply thermal procedures. Thermal effects can be easily observed as tissue temperature increases, but not all results of UD can be explained as only influence of thermal factor. Currently, we are looking for an explanation of these effects in mechanical and physiochemical factors which closely coexist. Find the occurrence changes of the skin temperature under the influence of ultrasounds with use continuous and impulse wave and verify if these waves develop the same or different reflectoric impact. Material and method. This study covered 30 people. In few days-long intervals every of the examined patient was tracted with local ultrasounds used continuous and impulse waves. Additionally there was used pyrometr for non-contact measurement of temperature in order to record post-operative changes of skin surface temperature. Results. This study suggest that under the influence of a single ultrasound application with used continuous and impulse wave, immediately after treatment there is observed increase of skin temperature which lasts to the end of measurement. Changes of the skin temperature could be observed in treated and reflectoric areas.Conclusions. Study show that, after ultrasounds therapy is observe the skin temperature increases. Changes of the skin temperature confirm these effects in the treated please and reflectoric areas.
Key words:
ultrasounds, continuous and impulse wave, skin temperature, removed reactions
Invalid download ID. Pobierz bezpłatnie artykuł w j. angielskim
1 2