The impact of structured postnatal exercise program on salivary cortisol levels in postpartum women following caesarean section

Dasarapu Indrani, Shenbaga Sundaram Subramanian, Prathap Suganthirababu, Dubba NagaRaju, Surya Vishnuram, Jagatheesan Alagesan, Purna Chandra Shekhar, Rahul Shaik, K.Himabindu, Kiran Velukuri

Dasarapu Indrani, Shenbaga Sundaram Subramanian, Prathap Suganthirababu, Dubba NagaRaju, Surya Vishnuram, Jagatheesan Alagesan et al. – The impact of structured postnatal exercise program on salivary cortisol levels in postpartum women following caesarean section –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(3); 423-427

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG7D19P4A8

Abstract
Background. Elevated cortisol levels contribute to maternal stress and delayed recovery in the postpartum period, particularly following lower segment caesarean section (LSCS), which poses unique physiological and psychological challenges.
Objective. To evaluate the impact of a 12-week structured postnatal exercise program on salivary cortisol levels in postpartum women following LSCS.
Methods. Sixty postpartum women who had undergone LSCS were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (n = 30) or a control group (n = 30). The experimental group received a physiotherapist-guided postnatal exercise program, progressing from breathing and mobility exercises to core stability training. Salivary cortisol levels were measured pre- and post-intervention. Secondary outcomes included core strength, exhaustion, and mental health.
Results. Post-intervention salivary cortisol levels were significantly lower in the experimental group than in the control group (mean difference: 5.2607 nmol/L; 95% CI: 3.9917–6.5296; p < 0.0001), with the experimental group demonstrating significant improvements in secondary outcomes.
Conclusion. A structured postnatal exercise program effectively reduces salivary cortisol levels and enhances recovery after LSCS. These findings support the incorporation of physiotherapy-led exercise into routine postpartum care to reduce stress and improve maternal health outcomes.
Keywords
cortisol levels, postpartum, caesarean section, postnatal exercise, stress
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Effect of bodyweight exercises versus resistance band exercises to improve strength in post-COVID individuals

Dubba NagaRaju, Shenbaga Sundaram Subramanian, Dasarapu Indrani, Surya Vishnuram, Kiran Velukuri, S Purna Chandra Shekhar, K. Himabindu, Jagatheesan Alagesan, Fadwa Alhalaiqa

Dubba NagaRaju, Shenbaga Sundaram Subramanian, Dasarapu Indrani, Surya Vishnuram,Kiran Velukuri, S Purna Chandra Shekhar et al. – Effect of bodyweight exercises versus resistance band exercises to improve strength in post-COVID individuals –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(3); 408-411

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG7D192ROZ

Abstract
Background. Resistance training is essential for enhancing muscular strength and overall physical health. Among various methods, bodyweight and elastic resistance training are economical and accessible, making them especially useful for young adults. However, limited research compares their relative effectiveness. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of bodyweight exercises versus resistance band exercises on muscle strength in young adults.
Methods. Thirty young adult participants were randomly assigned to two groups: group A (bodyweight training) and group B (elastic band training), with 15 individuals in each. A structured training protocol was followed for four weeks. Strength was assessed pre- and post-intervention using the push-up test and squat test. Paired t-tests were used to determine within-group changes at p < 0.05.
Results. Both training modalities significantly improved muscular strength. Group A demonstrated notable gains in both the push-up          (t = -9.025, p < 0.001) and squat tests (t = -13.169, p < 0.001). Group B showed greater improvements, with push-up                                           (t = -23.438, p < 0.001) and squat (t = -16.430, p < 0.001) scores improving significantly, and higher mean changes compared to group A.
Conclusion. While both bodyweight and elastic resistance exercises effectively enhance strength, elastic band training yielded slightly superior outcomes. These preliminary findings support the use of resistance bands, especially in settings with limited resources.
Key words
strength training, bodyweight workout, elastic resistance, young adults, push-up test, squat test
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Effectiveness of concentric and eccentric strengthening program on pain and functional performance in patellofemoral pain syndrome among sprinters – A pilot study

Buvanesh Annadurai, Vinodhkumar Ramalingam, Devadharshini Balakrishnan, Surya Vishnuram, Shenbaga Sundaram Subramanian, Santhana Lakshmi S, Pavithra Aravind, Pavithra S, Rajesh G, Thamer A. Altaim

Buvanesh Annadurai et al. – Effectiveness of concentric and eccentric strengthening program on pain and functional performance in patellofemoral pain syndrome among sprinters – A pilot study –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(3); 288-292

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG7D19JL5P

Abstract
Background. Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a common musculoskeletal disorder that primarily affects athletes, particularly those who engage in repetitive knee flexion and extension. Collegiate sprinters are especially susceptible to PFPS because certain strokes, including the freestyle and breaststroke, demand repetitive lower-limb actions. The estimated prevalence of PFPS in elite athletes is 35.7%, 28.9% in adolescents, and 13.5% in the military. PFPS affects individuals across various age groups, with a general population prevalence rate of 23%. Muscle imbalances surrounding the knee joint, especially weakness of the quadriceps muscles, which are essential for patellar stabilization, are frequently linked to PFPS. Strengthening exercises can be broadly divided into concentric and eccentric modalities, although different rehabilitation strategies may be applied. This study aims to compare the influence of concentric and eccentric strengthening programs on pain levels and functional performance in collegiate sprinters diagnosed with PFPS.
Objective. To compare the effectiveness of changes in functional performance and pain following both concentric and eccentric exercises in PFPS among collegiate sprinters.
Materials and methods. A total of 24 participants were allocated into two groups using a convenient sampling method: group A (n = 12) and group B (n = 12). Group A received concentric exercise, while group B underwent eccentric exercise for three weeks. Materials required included a chair, stopwatch, clear floor space, and measuring tape to ensure accurate assessment and execution of exercises. Outcome measures included the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) to assess pain levels and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test to evaluate functional mobility and balance.
Results. Statistical analysis of the quantitative data showed no statistically significant difference between group A and group B, with a p-value of < 0.0001. Both groups demonstrated considerable improvement post-intervention in pain and functional performance; however, no significant difference was found between the groups. Therefore, both concentric and eccentric strengthening programs appear equally effective in managing patellofemoral pain syndrome among collegiate sprinters.
Conclusions. According to this study’s findings, concentric exercises with therapeutic ultrasound (group A) and eccentric exercises with therapeutic ultrasound (group B) are similar in effectiveness in lowering pain and improving functional performance in collegiate sprinters with patellofemoral pain syndrome.
Key words
anterior knee pain, patellofemoral pain, patellofemoral pain syndrome
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Effects of EMG Biofeedback and active exercises with Integrated neuromuscular inhibition technique on students with Trapezius myalgia

Ranjani Shree.K, Jagatheesan Alagesan, Jeslin.G. N, Shenbaga Sundaram Subramanian, Karthick.K, Neha Lakshmanan, Praveen Kumar.R, Pavithra.S

Ranjani Shree.K et al. – Effects of EMG Biofeedback and active exercises with Integrated neuromuscular inhibition technique on students with Trapezius myalgia –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(2); 370-373

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG00E1O8LL

Abstract
Aim. Trapezius myalgia is a common musculoskeletal condition characterized by pain and trigger points. Electromyography biofeedback (EMG) can improve muscle activation, while active exercise significantly reduces pain and stiffness. This study aimed to examine the effect of EMG biofeedback exercise training and active exercise, along with integrated neuromuscular inhibition technique (INIT), in individuals with trapezius myalgia. Material and methods. This double-blind study included seventy participants with trapezius myalgia, randomly assigned to two groups after informed consent. Both groups received 10 minutes of INIT. The EMG biofeedback group (n=35) performed exercises with electrodes on the upper trapezius, while the active exercise group (n=35) performed exercises without electrodes. Both interventions lasted 15 sessions over 3 weeks. Results. After the intervention, the EMG biofeedback group showed a decrease in Neck Disability Index (NDI) scores to 12.71 ± 1.67, whereas the active exercise group had no significant reduction (24.17 ± 3.13). Post-test pressure algometer scores were higher in the EMG biofeedback group (136.05 ± 5.35) compared to the active exercise group (119.68 ± 3.01). Statistical analysis revealed significant t-values of 19.057 (p < 0.0001) for NDI and 15.752 (p < 0.0001) for pressure algometer scores, indicating the efficacy of EMG biofeedback in reducing neck pain and enhancing pressure sensitivity. Conclusions. The study demonstrates that EMG biofeedback is more effective than active exercise in reducing pain and improving functional ability in individuals with trapezius myalgia.
Key words
trapezius myalgia, emg biofeedback, integrated neuromuscular inhibition technique, active exercise, neck disability index
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Effectiveness of muscle energy technique along with strengthening exercise among college students with lower cross syndrome

Aswin Kumaraguru, Anitha.A, Shenbaga Sundaram Subramanian, Karthick.K, Jeslin. G.N, Neha Lakshmanan, Dinesh Sampath Kumar, Sivaraghav Sathish Kumar

Aswin Kumaraguru et al. – Effectiveness of muscle energy technique along with strengthening exercise among college students with lower cross syndrome –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(2); 290-293

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG00E1MU5D

Abstract
Aim. Poor posture, prolonged sitting, and a sedentary lifestyle are common among students, causing muscle imbalances, increased lordosis, and a lateral shift in the center of gravity. These conditions affect muscle strength and can cause lower cross syndrome. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of MET and strengthening exercises in college students with lower cross syndrome.
Material and methods. It is a double-blinded study in which subjects diagnosed with lower cross syndrome were recruited after giving consent. Subjects were allocated into the METs group (n = 20) and the conventional group (n = 20). The baseline evaluation for anterior pelvic tilt was done using Kinovea software. The curl-up test and squat test for abdominal and gluteal muscle strength were recorded.
Results. Statistical analyses, using mean and standard deviation, revealed significant improvements in anterior pelvic tilt, abdominal curl, and squats post-intervention in the METs group compared to the conventional group (p < 0.0001 for all). Post-intervention values were 10.30 ± 1.45, 42.05 ± 2.44, and 36.70 ± 3.23, respectively.
Conclusion. Results prove that the subjects of the METs group improved their anterior pelvic tilt, abdominal strengthening, and gluteal strengthening more than those of the conventional group.
Key words
low back pain, anterior pelvic tilt, muscle energy technique, strengthening exercise, Thomas test, Kinovea software, curl up test
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Developing and validating the exercise protocol in early intervention treatment programs for early-term babies

K.C. Gayathri, Shenbaga Sundaram Subramanian, Yasmeen imtiaz, Hari babu, Mohamed Nainar A, Huda Yahya Alyahyawi, Ahlam Mazi, Reem Alyoubi, Riziq Allah Mustafa Gaowgzeh, Mashael Abdullah Almadhi

K.C. Gayathri et al. – Developing and validating the exercise protocol in early intervention treatment programs for early-term babies –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(2); 265-268

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG00E1242V

Abstract
Background. The aim of this study is to develop and validate a new exercise protocol for early intervention programs using VA cues and TVP stimulation for early-term babies. This includes evaluating the protocol and supporting its implementation in early intervention through expert content validation.
Methods. A five-point Likert scale was used to validate 10 online questions with the input of 15 experts. Reliability was tested in 30 babies aged between 3 and 6 months. A key challenge was to create a psychometrically reliable, practical, and efficient questionnaire for both clinical and research applications. This article outlines the guidelines used for the development and validation process, with a particular emphasis on developmental milestones. Various statistical techniques were employed to assess the validity and reliability of the questionnaire and ensure its psychometric quality. The exercise protocol was specifically designed for use with early-term babies.
Results. The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was 0.883, indicating an excellent level of internal consistency among the scale items.
Conclusion. Based on the Cronbach’s alpha analysis, the developed exercise protocol is effective in reducing the risk of future developmental delays.
Key words
early intervention, VA cues, TVP stimulation, exercise validation, early-term babies
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Cascading effects of VA cues and TVP stimulation on gross motor development in early-term babies with developmental delay

Shenbaga Sundaram Subramanian, K.C.Gayathri, K.Kamatchi, Hari babu, Mohamed Nainar A, Huda Yahya Alyahyawi, Ahlam Mazi,Reem Alyoubi, Riziq Allah Mustafa Gaowgzeh

 

Shenbaga Sundaram Subramanian et al. – Cascading effects of VA cues and TVP stimulation on gross motor development in early-term babies with developmental delay –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(2); 186-191

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG00E19UE6

Abstract
Aim. To analyze the outcome of VA cues and TVP stimulation on the development of gross motor milestones in early-term babies with developmental delays.
Method. One hundred and ten participants who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected for the study. A 12-week VA cues exercise program was implemented to assess the effects of early intervention on delayed milestones. This single-blinded study, with a blinded assessor, utilized the Denver Developmental Screening Test (DDST) and involved 12 weeks of early intervention therapy, with each session lasting 60 minutes.
Results. Following early intervention, the risk of developmental delay showed significant improvement. Milestone categorization was assessed at baseline, immediately after the intervention, and during follow-ups at 3, 6, and 12 months. Repeated measures ANOVA indicated a statistically significant difference, with a mean score of 3.00 ± 1.00 at pre-test, 6.95 ± 0.95 at post-test, and 7.00 ± 0.35 at final follow-up.
Conclusion. VA cues and TVP stimulation, which involve family empowerment, can assist clinicians and researchers in tailoring health promotion interventions to the specific needs of early-term children with developmental delays.
Key words
early intervention, motor development, early term baby, Bayley scale
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Effect of 4 weeks core stabilization exercise on muscle activity, range of motion and function in Lumbar Spondylosis

Lilima Patel, Shenbaga Sundaram Subramanian, Saju Binu Cherian, Anil Kumar Oraon, Manoj Kumar Behera

Lilima Patel, Shenbaga Sundaram Subramanian, Saju Binu Cherian, Anil Kumar Oraon, Manoj Kumar Behera – Effect of 4 weeks core stabilization exercise on muscle activity, range of motion and function in Lumbar Spondylosis –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(5); 445-450

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG020CPQG4

Abstract Introduction. Lumbar spondylosis (LS) is a degenerative spine disorder associated with poor biomechanics, aging, and heredity. The transversus abdominis (TrA) and lumbar multifidus (LM) are two core muscles essential for spinal stability. Core stabilization exercises (CSE) can increase mobility, lessen pain, and improve muscular function. However, little is known about how well they work for LS patients. This study aims to assess the effects of a 4-week CSE program on muscle function, range of motion, and activity in LS. Aim of the study. To determine the effect of a 4-week core stabilization exercise program on muscle activity, range of motion, and lumbar function in LS. Materials and methods. A single-masked, randomized, controlled pilot experiment was conducted with 20 LS subjects (aged 40 to 70). Participants were randomly allocated to either the intervention or control group. Both groups performed standardized spinal exercises and stretching routines, but the intervention group also received CSE that targeted the TrA and LM muscles. The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), lumbar range of motion (inclinometer), and muscle activity (surface electromyography) were used to assess outcomes. Statistical analyses used paired and independent sample t-tests with a 95% confidence interval. Results. The paired t-test showed significant improvements (p < 0.05) in the intervention group’s lumbar ROM, ODI scores, and TrA and LM muscle activation. The control group had substantial ROM and ODI improvements, with minor, non-significant changes in TrA. Independent t-tests revealed significant differences in ODI and MVIC of TrA and LM, favoring the intervention group, but no ROM differences between groups. Conclusion. CSE enhances lumbar function and muscle activation in LS subjects. These data point to their potential as an adjuvant rehabilitation technique.
Key words lumbar spondylosis, core stabilization, lumbar multifidus, transversus abdominis, range of motion, Oswestry Disability Index, surface electromyography
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Exploring mental health professionals’ experience, training, and clinical preparedness to provide care for LGBTQIA+ individuals

Sri Janani Vasanth Marar, Ilakkiya Lakshmanan, Ramgopal C.N, Shenbaga Sundaram Subramanian

Sri Janani Vasanth Marar, Ilakkiya Lakshmanan, Ramgopal C.N, Shenbaga Sundaram Subramanian – Exploring mental health professionals’ experience, training, and clinical preparedness to provide care for LGBTQIA+ individuals –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(5); 352-359

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG020C1JZR

Abstract Introduction. LGBTQIA+ individuals face disproportionately high levels of mental health challenges, exacerbated by discrimination, stigma, and inadequate care from untrained mental health professionals. Despite evolving societal attitudes, barriers to accessing mental health care persist, mainly due to professionals’ lack of formal training in LGBTQIA+ affirmative care. This study examines the training, experience, and self-perceived clinical preparedness of mental health professionals in providing care to LGBTQIA+ individuals. Methods. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 68 mental health professionals, including clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, and psychology trainees. The survey assessed their formal training in LGBTQIA+ mental health care, years of clinical experience, and self-perceived preparedness to provide affirmative care. Results. The survey revealed that many participants (n = 54, 79.4%) lacked formal LGBTQIA+ affirmative training, and many (n = 53, 77.9%) reported feeling inadequately prepared to provide care for LGBTQIA+ individuals. A significant positive correlation was found between clinical experience and self-perceived preparedness (r = 0.240, p < 0.05), but no significant correlation was identified between formal training and preparedness. This unexpected result may be due to the limited scope or insufficient depth of the existing training programs or the lack of continued supervision following introductory training. Conclusion. This study highlights the urgent need for structured LGBTQIA+ affirmative care training in mental health education. Integrating such training into national curricula and licensing programs is essential. Future research should explore broader populations and the specific elements of training that contribute most to clinical preparedness.
Key words queer affirmative training, LGBTQIA+, mental health professionals, clinical preparedness, experience
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Exploring the relationship between glycated haemoglobin levels and geriatric syndromes in elderly patients with diabetes (a cross-sectional study)

Diovin Derose Vianni, Shenbaga Sundaram Subramanian, Surya Vishnuram, Hazliza Razali, Madhanraj Sekar, Naseem Alyahyawi, Hana K Almufadda, Riziq Allah Mustafa Gaowgzeh,Fadwa Alhalaiqa

Diovin Derose Vianni et al. – Exploring the relationship between glycated haem

Diovin Derose Vianni et al. – Exploring the relationship between glycated haemoglobin levels and geriatric syndromes in elderly patients with diabetes (a cross-sectional study) –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(5); 293-299

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG020CN4TC

Abstract Background. One common chronic condition is diabetes mellitus (DM), which is more prevalent in the elderly and is often linked to a variety of issues and concomitant conditions. Geriatric symptoms, such as depression, weakness, tiredness, and insomnia, are known to impact health outcomes in this demographic significantly. Objective. This study investigated the connection between glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels and geriatric symptoms in seniors with diabetes. Methods. An appropriate sample of fifty senior people (60–85 years old) with diabetes mellitus was selected from the outpatient ward of Saveetha Hospital. The HbA1c values were assessed in addition to examinations for geriatric symptoms using established measures. Potential correlations between HbA1c levels and geriatric syndromes were examined by statistical analysis. Results. The following variables showed significant positive relationships with HbA1c levels: frailty (r = 0.571, p < 0.000), fatigue (r = 0.725, p < 0.000), sleeplessness (r = 0.631, p < 0.000), and geriatric depression (r = 0.529, p < 0.000). Conclusion. In older diabetes mellitus patients, higher HbA1c levels were linked to a higher prevalence of fatigue, insomnia, frailty, and depression. These results emphasize the need for glycemic control in treating geriatric diseases in this population.
Key words diabetes mellitus, geriatric syndromes, glycated hemoglobin, depression, frailty, fatigue, insomnia, elderly patients
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