Tag: quality of life

Multidimensional effects of dual-task-focused training added to structured neurological rehabilitation in individuals with chronic stroke: a randomized controlled trial

Yasemin Sahbaz, Begum Buyukerik, Yaren Urhan, Ahmet Yigit Dincel, Safa Kavak, Seyhan Erkinov, Serhat Beytekin, Yusuf Ciftci, Nergiz Batur, Ipek Yeldan, Tugba Sahbaz, Hatice Kubra Asik

Yasemin Sahbaz, Begum Buyukerik, Yaren Urhan, Ahmet Yigit Dincel, Safa Kavak, Seyhan Erkinov et al. – Multidimensional effects of dual-task-focused training added to structured neurological rehabilitation in individuals with chronic stroke: a randomized controlled trial –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2026; 26(1); 93-100

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG2EFAYV72

Abstract
Purpose. This randomized controlled trial aimed to investigate the multidimensional effects of dual-task-focused exercises added to structured neurological rehabilitation on balance, mobility, anxiety, cognitive function, and quality of life in individuals with chronic stroke.
Materials and Methods. In this evaluator-blinded randomized controlled trial, forty individuals with chronic stroke were assigned to two groups. Both groups received six weeks of structured neurological rehabilitation, while the experimental group additionally completed dual-task training. Balance, walking speed, mobility, anxiety, verbal fluency, cognitive function, and quality of life were assessed before and after treatment.
Results. Baseline demographic and clinical characteristics were similar between groups. Compared with controls, the dual-task group showed significantly greater improvements in mobility, anxiety, and quality of life, with particularly notable gains in anxiety and quality of life. Both groups improved in balance and cognitive function, with some measures favoring the control group. No significant between-group difference was found in walking speed.
Conclusions. Adding dual-task-focused exercises to structured neurological rehabilitation provides significant benefits in mobility, anxiety, and quality of life in individuals with chronic stroke. Variability in balance and cognitive outcomes indicates the need for further research to determine optimal protocols and long-term effects.
Key words
dual-task training, chronic stroke, quality of life, cognitive function, balance
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Evaluation of the effectiveness of physiotherapy and its impact on the quality of life of female patients with stress urinary incontinence

Agata Kwiatkowska, Anna Czarniecka, Anna Mickiewicz

Agata Kwiatkowska, Anna Czarniecka, Anna Mickiewicz – Evaluation of the effectiveness of physiotherapy and its impact on the quality of life of female patients with stress urinary incontinence –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2026; 26(1); 6-15

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG2EFA73KJ

Abstract
Aim of the Study. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of physiotherapy treatment, with particular emphasis on the pelvic floor muscle exercises, in a group of female patients with stress urinary incontinence (SUI).
Material and Methods. A pre–post interventional design without a control group was used. The study included 18 women aged 26 to 50 years. Women with urodynamically and gynecologically confirmed stress urinary incontinence, qualifying for conservative treatment, were included in the study. Physiotherapy was conducted by an experienced urogynecological physiotherapist. Treatment effectiveness was evaluated based on changes in UDI-6 and IIQ-7 scores from baseline to post-intervention.
Results. Statistical analysis showed significant differences before and after the physiotherapy program for the total scores obtained from the UDI-6 questionnaire, as well as for individual questions in the UDI-6 questionnaire in the studied group (p<0.001). Significant differences were also found before and after the physiotherapy program for the total scores obtained from the IIQ-7 questionnaire and for individual questions in the IIQ-7 questionnaire in the studied group (p<0.001). In the studied group, a clinically significant improvement was observed. The mean UDI-6 score decreased by approximately 75% (from 54.40 to 13.43), and the IIQ-7 score decreased by approximately 76% (from 76.11 to 18.50) after completion of the physiotherapy program, suggesting substantial effectiveness of the intervention.
Conclusions. The implemented physiotherapy program, with particular emphasis on pelvic floor muscle exercises, in the studied group of women with stress urinary incontinence, contributed to a significant reduction in the severity of symptoms and an improvement in the patients’ quality of life.
Key words
physiotherapy, pelvic floor exercises, quality of life, stress urinary incontinence
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Quality of life, level of independence and pain symptoms in adult patients with cerebral palsy treated with the Vojta method – case reports

Edyta Ciesielska, Michał Olba, Anna Mickiewicz

Edyta Ciesielska, Michał Olba, Anna Mickiewicz – Quality of life, level of independence and pain symptoms in adult patients with cerebral palsy treated with the Vojta method – case reports –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(5); 66-75

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZGA431F2A6

Abstract
Aim of the study. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of Vojta therapy on the quality of life, level of independence and pain symptoms in adult patients with cerebral palsy (CP).
Basic assumptions. Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders caused by damage to the developing brain during the prenatal and neonatal periods, affecting motor development, muscle tone, and posture. Motor disorders in CP are often accompanied by sensory, perceptual, cognitive, communication, and behavioral disorders, as well as epilepsy. Despite advances in prenatal and perinatal care, the overall prevalence of CP has remained stable over the past 40 years. The functional abilities of adults with CP in daily life depend on the severity of symptoms and the presence of any comorbid conditions. These individuals can function with full independence in daily activities, partial dependence, or require round-the-clock care. Pain is one of the most frequently reported problems by adults with CP and negatively impacts their functioning.
One of the leading therapeutic approaches used in the treatment of CP is the Vojta method. This therapy has been successfully used for many years in children with CP, as well as in healthy adults and adults with multiple sclerosis. However, no one has yet evaluated the possibility of its application in adults with CP. Therefore, the authors of this article attempted to apply elements of the Vojta therapy in adult patients with CP and assess its potential impact on their quality of life, level of independence, and pain symptoms.
Key words
quality of life, level of independence, pain symptoms, cerebral palsy, Vojta therapy
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Effects of graded backward treadmill training on quadriceps strength, quadriceps muscle mass, and quality of life after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a randomized controlled trial

Diker Dev Joshi, Vikram Shetty, Pravin Aaron, Dhanesh Kumar KU

Diker Dev Joshi, Vikram Shetty, Pravin Aaron, Dhanesh Kumar KU – Effects of graded backward treadmill training on quadriceps strength, quadriceps muscle mass, and quality of life after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a randomized controlled trial –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(5); 18-25

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZGA431Z4K7

Abstract
Background. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is frequently associated with persistent quadriceps weakness and reduced quality of life. Graded backward treadmill walking has emerged as a promising intervention to enhance neuromuscular rehabilitation.
Objective. To investigate the effects of graded backward treadmill training on quadriceps strength, quadriceps muscle mass, and quality of life in individuals after ACL reconstruction.
Methodology. Sixty participants (aged 18–45 years) who underwent ACL reconstruction using a semitendinosus graft were randomly assigned to five groups (A–E; n = 12 per group). Groups A–D performed backward treadmill walking at inclinations of 0°, 5°, 10°, and 15°, respectively. Group E served as the control group and received conventional rehabilitation. Training was conducted for 20 minutes per session, three days per week, for four weeks. Outcome measures included quadriceps strength (assessed using a dynamometer), quadriceps muscle mass (assessed by ultrasound), and quality of life (measured using the IKDC and ACL-QOL questionnaires). Statistical analyses were performed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and non-parametric tests.
Results. All groups demonstrated improvements in quadriceps strength, muscle mass, and quality of life following the intervention. Group B exhibited the greatest mean improvement in quadriceps strength, whereas Group D showed the largest increases in quadriceps muscle mass and quality of life scores. Significant between-group differences were observed at baseline for quadriceps strength (p < 0.001) and at post-test for ultrasound-derived muscle mass (p = 0.010), IKDC scores (p = 0.033), and ACL-QOL scores (p = 0.016).
Discussion. The findings indicate that backward treadmill training led to improvements in quadriceps strength, muscle mass, and quality of life across all intervention groups. The superior strength gains observed in Group B suggest that moderate incline backward walking may be optimal for enhancing force production, whereas the pronounced increases in muscle mass and quality of life in Group D indicate that higher inclinations may be particularly effective for promoting muscular hypertrophy and psychosocial recovery.
Conclusion. Graded backward treadmill training following ACL reconstruction improves quadriceps muscle mass and quality of life, with higher inclinations showing greater effects. Further research is warranted to determine long-term outcomes and to identify optimal training parameters.
Key words
anterior cruciate ligament, backward treadmill walking, rehabilitation, quadriceps strength, quality of life
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Prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea and its association with quality of life among healthcare professionals. A cross-sectional study

R. Jayabharathi, S. Ramachandran, N. Senthil Kumar, Jibi Paul

R. Jayabharathi, S. Ramachandran, N. Senthil Kumar, Jibi Paul – Prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea and its association with quality of life among healthcare professionals. A cross-sectional study –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(3); 348-354

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG7D191BFO

Abstract
Background. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder marked by repeated episodes of upper airway obstruction during sleep, leading to poor sleep quality and excessive daytime sleepiness. Healthcare professionals (HCPs), due to demanding work hours and shift patterns, are especially vulnerable to OSA, which may impact their health, well-being, and quality of care delivery.
Objective. To determine the prevalence of OSA among healthcare professionals with poor sleep quality and evaluate its effects on their quality of life.
Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 308 clinical trainees across three private medical colleges in Chennai. Participants with poor sleep quality (PSQI ≥ 5) were screened for OSA risk using the STOP-Bang questionnaire, daytime sleepiness using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and quality of life using the SF-12 Health Survey. Data were analysed using SPSS version 11, with correlations and logistic regression to identify predictors of high OSA risk.
Results. A significant proportion of participants were found to be at high risk for OSA (STOP-Bang ≥ 5). Higher OSA risk was significantly associated with increased daytime sleepiness (ESS), poorer sleep quality (PSQI), and reduced physical and mental health scores on SF-12. Logistic regression revealed that BMI and ESS score were significant predictors of high OSA risk.
Conclusion. OSA is prevalent among healthcare professionals with poor sleep quality and is linked to impaired daytime function and reduced quality of life. Early identification and intervention strategies are crucial to improve well-being and maintain safe, effective patient care.
Keywords
obstructive sleep apnea, healthcare professionals, sleep apnea, sleeping habits, quality of life
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Comparison of transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation on pain and quality of life in primary dysmenorrhea

Yuktha N, Kamalakannan M, Bharathi Ravichandran, Tamilselvan Ravichandran, Srikanth V, Praveen Vasanthan Murugan

 

Yuktha N, Kamalakannan M, Bharathi Ravichandran, Tamilselvan Ravichandran, Srikanth V, Praveen Vasanthan Murugan – Comparison of transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation on pain and quality of life in primary dysmenorrhea –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(3); 43-52

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG7D19CE53

Abstract
Background. Dysmenorrhea, characterized by painful menstrual cramps, affects a significant percentage of adolescents, leading to considerable discomfort and disruption in daily activities. It is categorized into primary dysmenorrhea, which is not associated with any underlying gynecological conditions, and secondary dysmenorrhea, which is linked to identifiable pelvic pathologies. Primary dysmenorrhea typically arises due to uterine contractions mediated by prostaglandins and can significantly impact the quality of life (QoL) for affected individuals.
Aim. The aim of this study is to compare the efficacy of transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (TTNS) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) in reducing pain and enhancing the quality of life in adolescents with primary dysmenorrhea.
Method. This twelve-week study involved 80 participants aged 18 to 25 with primary dysmenorrhea and no pelvic pathologies. The participants were divided into two groups, each receiving either TENS or TTNS. Outcome measures included the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire, evaluating pain and quality of life before and after the intervention.
Result. The study revealed a significant decrease in pain intensity (p < 0.0001) and improved quality of life (p < 0.0001) post-intervention, indicating the effectiveness of TENS and TTNS.
Conclusion. This study provides evidence supporting the effectiveness of TENS and TTNS in managing primary dysmenorrhea symptoms. The observed improvements in pain reduction and quality of life suggest the potential of these interventions as valuable components in the management of primary dysmenorrhea.
Key words
TENS, TTNS, primary dysmenorrhea, pain reduction, quality of life
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The effect of local cryotherapy on temperature changes in the ankle joint in individuals with chronic ankle instability

Bartosz Pańczyszak, Katarzyna Bogacz, Łukasz Mączka, Danuta Lietz-Kijak, Jacek Łuniewski, Anna Szczegielniak, Jan Szczegielniak

 

Bartosz Pańczyszak et al. – The effect of local cryotherapy on temperature changes in the ankle joint in individuals with chronic ankle instability –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(2); 172-177

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG00E1ON2V

Abstract
Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of local cryotherapy on temperature changes in the ankle joint. Additionally, a subjective assessment of joint function was performed in individuals with chronic ankle instability and in healthy controls.
Materials and methods. The chronic ankle instability (CAI) group consisted of 10 participants, while the healthy control group included 22. In both groups, ankle joint temperature was measured at four time points: 10 minutes before testing, immediately before cryotherapy, immediately after the procedure, and 10 minutes post-treatment. Functional status of the ankle joint was assessed using the FADI-Q questionnaire.
Results. The lowest temperature was recorded at the Achilles tendon during the first measurement, and the CAI group showed a higher Achilles tendon temperature before testing began. The experimental group scored lower on the FADI-Q questionnaire than the control group.
Conclusions.
1. The CAI group exhibited higher temperature at the distal insertion of the Achilles tendon before the study began.
2. Ten minutes after the procedure, skin temperature had not returned to baseline values.
3. The FADI-Q questionnaire revealed that the group with chronic ankle instability rated their functional status lower.
Key words
functional status, quality of life, erderly people, institutional care
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High-intensity interval training for patients with diabetes mellitus. A scoping review

Muhammad Irfan Alhady, Farid Rahman

Muhammad Irfan Alhady, Farid Rahman – High-intensity interval training for patients with diabetes mellitus. A scoping review –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 417-429

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007DGAWB

Abstract
Background. The spread of diabetes mellitus is increasing worldwide, significantly affecting public health. Management of this chronic condition requires effective strategies to control blood glucose levels and improve overall health. High-intensity interval training is emerging as a potential non-pharmacological approach to managing diabetes.
Aim. To investigate the effectiveness of high-intensity interval training in improving glycemic control, insulin sensitivity, and overall physical fitness in patients with diabetes mellitus. It also sought to identify the most effective high-intensity interval training protocols and provide recommendations for their application in diabetes management.
Material and methods. The method used in this study is a scoping review, which aims to find answers to questions from researchers related to the literature on the research topic. The collected articles were synthesized using the TIDIER checklist, and articles were searched through various databases.
Result. After conducting the article selection process, which can be seen in Figure 1, 35 suitable articles were found. The details of articles related to population, interventions, outcome measures, and risk of bias can be seen in Table 1.
Conclusion. High-intensity interval training presents a viable and superior exercise strategy for managing diabetes mellitus, particularly type 2, provided that appropriate protocols are followed. However, further research is needed to standardize high-intensity interval training protocols and evaluate long-term impacts.
Key words
diabetes mellitus, high-intensity interval training, insulin resistance, glycemic control, blood pressure, physical fitness, quality of life
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Assessing the influence of obstructive sleep apnea on quality of life among young adults: a narrative review

Mariam Sameh Elawady, Alham Al-Sharman, Ashokan Arumugam

Mariam Sameh Elawady, Alham Al-Sharman, Ashokan Arumugam – Assessing the influence of obstructive sleep apnea on quality of life among young adults: a narrative review –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 121-127

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007DNSAD

Abstract
Background. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder characterized by repeated episodes of partial or complete upper airway obstruction during sleep. While traditionally associated with older adults, recent studies indicate an increasing prevalence of OSA among young adults. This review aims to synthesize available literature on the prevalence, risk factors, clinical manifestations, and impact of OSA on the quality of life in young adults aged 18-35 years.
Methods. A comprehensive search was conducted using PubMed, EBSCO, and Google Scholar, covering articles published between 2010 and 2024. Articles were screened for their relevance to the study’s objectives, focusing on young adults and their experiences with OSA. Studies investigating prevalence, risk factors, clinical presentation, and treatment strategies were included. A total of 30 full-text articles were assessed, and 14 met the inclusion criteria.
Results. The prevalence of OSA in young adults varies widely across different populations, with estimates ranging from 5% to 23%. Male gender, higher body mass index (BMI), and anatomical predispositions were the most consistent predictors of OSA in this demographic. In contrast to older populations, young adults with OSA often exhibit atypical symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, and difficulties in concentration, which may affect their academic and occupational performance. Additionally, untreated OSA was linked to long-term adverse health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease and neurocognitive impairments.
Conclusions. OSA is an under-recognized condition among young adults, with significant implications for physical and mental health. Early screening and targeted interventions are essential to prevent the progression of OSA and its associated comorbidities. Future research should focus on standardizing diagnostic criteria and exploring the long-term impacts of OSA on quality of life in this population
Key words
obstructive sleep apnea, young adults, prevalence, risk factors, quality of life
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Ocena stanu funkcjonalnego i jakości życia pacjentów po 60. roku życia

Tomasz Wiktorek, Robert Irzmański, Małgorzata Kilon

Tomasz Wiktorek, Robert Irzmański, Małgorzata Kilon – Assesment of the functional status and quality of life of patient over 60 years of age –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 71-77

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007DZ3QF

Abstract
Aim. The aim of the study was to asses the functional status and quality of life of patients over 60 years of age living in the community and using institutional care.
Materials and Methods. The study included 60 people aged 66 to 98 (82.8 ± 8.4), residents of a long-term care facility (HCC) and patients of geriatric clinic. Both groups were equal in size. An original survey was used in the study. In order to assess the functional status, handgrip measurement (HGS), the Up and Go test (TUG), short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and the Barthel scale were performed and the WHOQOL-BREEF questionnaire was used to assess the quality of life. The obtained results were subjected to statistical analysis. The normality of the distributions was verified using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Student’s T-test and non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test were used to determine the statistical significance of differences between groups. The significance level was set to p < 0.05.
Results/ All tests assessing functional status and quality of life differed between groups at the level of statistical significance (p < 0.001).Physical fitness significantly influenced the quality of life (p < 0.001).
Conclusions/ People living in an institutional environment achieved poorer results in all functional and quality of life tests. The quality of life depended on the functional status and was higher in people living in an institutional environment.
Key words
functional status, quality of life, erderly people, institutional care
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