Showing papers in "Journal of Physical Therapy Science in 2023"

Physical functions associated with health-related quality of life in older adults diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis

Abstract: [Purpose] The present study aimed to identify the physical functions associated with health-related quality of life in older adults with knee osteoarthritis. [Participants and Methods] A total of 132 participants were included in this study in two groups: the knee osteoarthritis group (n=66) and the control group (n=66). We compared the results of the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey with the physical function measures related to health-related quality of life. In the knee osteoarthritis group, we examined the relationship between the degree of knee pain and health-related quality of life. [Results] The knee osteoarthritis group showed a significantly shorter one-leg standing time, lower maximum walking speed, and significantly longer time to complete the Sit-to-Stand-5 and Timed Up and Go tests than the control group. The knee osteoarthritis group had significantly lower 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey scores than the control group on seven subscales and significantly lower scores for physical component summary and role or social component summary. In the knee osteoarthritis group, physical component summary and role or social component summary were correlated with Sit-to-Stand-5, Timed Up and Go, and maximum walking speed. We observed a correlation between physical component summary and knee pain on joint loading. [Conclusion] In older adults with knee osteoarthritis, rehabilitation approaches aimed at achieving a smooth transition from sitting to standing may increase social participation and improve health-related quality of life.

Influences of trunk stability on exercise performance of closed kinetic chain of upper and lower limbs

Abstract: [Purpose] This study aimed to examine whether trunk stability is related to closed kinetic chain motor performance of the upper and lower limbs. [Participants and Methods] In this study, 27 healthy male university students participated. Trunk stability was measured under two conditions, with and without rhythmic stabilization, as a proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation procedure. The shortest time required to perform 20 push-ups and lateral step-up/-downs (closed kinetic chain motor performances) immediately after rhythmic stabilization or sitting rest (without rhythmic stabilization) was measured. [Results] Left and right trunk stabilities were significantly higher, and the time required to perform the closed kinetic chain motor task was significantly shorter under the rhythmic stabilization condition than that of the non-rhythmic stabilization condition. Regarding the relationship between the difference between the two trunk stability conditions and difference between upper/lower limbs closed kinetic chain exercise capacity conditions, left trunk stability correlated with each closed kinetic chain movement, whereas right trunk stability did not correlate with either movement. [Conclusion] Trunk stability was shown to improve closed kinetic chain exercise capacity in the upper and lower limbs, and stability of the trunk’s dominant side (here, left side) seemed to regulate.

Confirmatory factor analysis of the Japanese Health Locus of Control scales among people with musculoskeletal disorders

Abstract: [Purpose] To determine whether the 25-item Japanese Health Locus of Control (25-JHLC) scale satisfies a 5-factor structure among Japanese with musculoskeletal disorders. [Participants and Methods] The primary inclusion criterion was people undergoing physical therapy for musculoskeletal disorders in two medical facilities. The 25-JHLC scale and demographic data were obtained by conducting an anonymous survey. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to analyze data from the 25-JHLC scale in 200 patients with musculoskeletal disorders. Fits for the 5-factor structure (1-internal; 2-family; 3-professional; 4-chance; and 5-supernatural) and the 2-factor structure (1-internal; and 2-external, including family, professional, chance, and supernatural) were studied. The goodness-of-fit criteria included chi-squared/degree of freedom, goodness-of-fit index, adjusted goodness-of-fit index, and root mean square error of approximation. [Results] The mean (standard deviation) age of the participants was 46.3 (18.3) years of age. The 2-factor structure satisfied no criteria; however, the 5-factor structure satisfied two criteria for acceptable fit (chi-squared/degree of freedom, and root mean square error of approximation). [Conclusion] This study found that the 5-factor structure of the 25-JHLC scale can be accepted to some extent among Japanese with musculoskeletal disorders without comorbidities.

Association of clinical symptoms and metabolic syndrome-related factors in patients undergoing high tibial osteotomy

Abstract: [Purpose] This study aimed to investigate the relationship between clinical outcomes after high tibial osteotomy and metabolic syndrome-related factors, such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, and obesity. [Participants and Methods] A total of 73 patients (73 knees) who underwent high tibial osteotomy for knee osteoarthritis between 2018 and 2020 were included. We investigated the correlation between metabolic syndrome-related factors and clinical symptom assessment (Japanese Orthopedic Association Score) and examined knee function and lower alignment. [Results] At three months postoperatively, the Japanese Orthopedic Association score showed no main and synergistic effects on metabolic syndrome-related factors, and the preoperative Japanese Orthopedic Association score only showed a main effect on metabolic syndrome-related factors. At 12 months postoperatively, the Japanese Orthopedic Association score showed main and synergistic effects on diabetes mellitus, obesity, hypertension and dislipidemia. [Conclusion] Metabolic syndrome-related factors are associated with poorer clinical outcomes after high tibial osteotomy.

Possible solutions to enhance evidence-based practice proposed by rehabilitation professionals in Japan: a Delphi study

Abstract: [Purpose] We aimed to identify possible solutions to enhance evidence-based practice (EBP) in rehabilitation professionals in Japan. [Participants and Methods] A three-round Delphi method was undertaken among a cohort of clinical therapists (328 physical therapists, 55 occupational therapists, and 6 speech therapists). In the first round, the participants listed possible solutions for promoting EBP, other than 12 solutions presented in a previous study; subsequently, a new list was created. In the second round, a newly-created list of solutions was presented, and the participants responded on a 5-point Likert scale on how much they agreed with the solutions promoting EBP in Japanese rehabilitation professionals. In the third round, the distribution of responses obtained in the second round was presented, and participant’s agreement was again assessed on a 5-point Likert scale. [Results] Across the three rounds, data were collected from 33.7% to 47.0% of all eligible participants. After the first round, 17 possible solutions were developed, and a list of 29 solutions was used in the second round. After the third round, 10 solutions reached the predetermined criteria for consensus. [Conclusion] In this study, ten possible solutions to promote EBP were proposed by the Japanese rehabilitation professionals.

Effects of low-level laser therapy on inflammatory symptoms in an arthritis rat model

Abstract: [Purpose] This study evaluated the effect of low-level laser therapy on inflammatory signs in an arthritis rat model as a foundation for elucidating the mechanism of the anti-inflammatory effect. [Materials and Methods] Eigteen Wistar rats were divided into three groups: group I (arthritis without low-level laser therapy), group II (arthritis with low-level laser therapy), and the control group (sham arthritis control). Arthritis was induced in the right knee by injecting a mixture of kaolin and carrageenan. Low-level laser therapy was continued for seven days after the onset of arthritis by 60 times of repeated irradiation for 10 seconds in the right knee joint area. The joint transverse diameter, pressure pain threshold in the affected knee joint, and mechanical paw withdrawal threshold at the distant site were evaluated the day before the injection and one, three, and seven days after the injection. Pathological changes were observed. [Results] Group II showed better improvement in swelling and pain in the affected knee joint and secondary hyperalgesia at the distance site when compared to group I. In group II, there was only mild infiltration of synovial cells, and the progression of arthritis was suppressed compared with that of group I. [Conclusion] Low-level laser therapy can mitigate swelling and inflammatory pain in the affected knee joint and prevent secondary hyperalgesia.

Applicability of automated tractography during acute care stroke rehabilitation

Abstract: [Purpose] To assess the clinical applicability of a novel automated tractography tool named XTRACT during acute stroke rehabilitation. [Participants and Methods] Three patients with left hemisphere stroke were sampled. Diffusion tensor images were acquired on the second week, and automated tractography was then applied. Tractography images and fractional anisotropy (FA) values in the corticospinal tract (CST) and arcuate fasciculus (AF) were assessed in relation to hemiparesis and aphasia. [Results] Patient 1 was nearly asymptomatic; FA in the left CST was 0.610 and that in the AF was 0.509. Patient 2 had severe hemiparesis and mild motor aphasia. Tractography images of the CST and AF were blurred; FA in the left CST was 0.295 and that in the AF was 0.304. Patient 3 showed no hemiparesis or aphasia at initial assessment. Tractography image of the CST was intact but that of the AF was less clear; FA in the left CST was 0.586 and that in the AF was 0.338. Considering the less clear images of the AF and lower FA value in Patients 2 and 3, further examinations for aphasia were performed, which revealed agraphia. [Conclusion] Visualization and quantification of neural fibers using automated tractography promoted planning acute care rehabilitative treatment in patients with stroke.

Changes in neck pain and somatic symptoms before and after the adjustment of the pillow height

Abstract: [Purpose] The purpose of this study was to determine whether strict adjustment of the pillow height using the Set-up for Spinal Sleep method improves clinical outcomes like neck pain and somatic symptoms. [Participants and Methods] A total of 84 participants with chief complaints of stiff shoulders and neck pain were evaluated using the numerical rating scale and the Somatic Symptom Scale-8. Questionnaires were used to collect data at the baseline, after two weeks, and after three months of adjusting the pillow height. [Results] Forty-two participants (50%) achieved the minimal clinically important difference for neck pain with a decrease of three points or higher in the numerical rating scale. The baseline neck pain scores were significantly higher in the group that achieved the minimal clinically important difference. The three-month change in neck pain and the Somatic Symptom Scale-8 was significantly greater in participants who were satisfied with treatment. There was a significant positive association between improvement in the numerical rating scale score and improvement in the Somatic Symptom Scale-8 at three months. [Conclusion] Strict adjustment of the pillow height using the Set-up for the Spinal Sleep method significantly improved both physical neck pain and somatic symptoms related to psychological and social problems.

The relationship between frailty and motor function among living in the community elderly females

Abstract: [Purpose] This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of frailty among community-dwelling elderly females, and to examine its relation to motor function and the main risk factors of frailty. [Participants and Methods] The participants were 67 community-dwelling elderly females, aged 76.2 ± 7.7 years. We performed measurements of physical parameters, motor functions (such as grip strength), timed up and go test (TUG), walking speed, and frailty (measured using the Kihon Checklist [KCL]). [Results] KCL scores were 31.3%, 31.3%, and 37.3% in the frailty, pre-frailty, and robust groups, respectively. The frailty group was older than the pre-frailty and robust groups. Additionally, the different groups showed significant differences in grip strength, TUG, and walking speed. The highest median KCL score was for depression, followed by physical function. As a results, frailty was evident even among health-conscious elderly people. [Conclusion] It is essential to identify frailty at an early stage and identify its preventive factors, in order to extend the healthy life expectancy of the local population.

The significance of information and communication technology education via tablets in college of physical therapy

Abstract: [Purpose] This study aimed to clarify whether collaborative learning could be promoted via information and communication technology education using tablets at college of physical therapy. [Participants and Methods] An online survey was conducted to evaluate collaborative learning among 81 first-year students at the Department of Physical Therapy actively using tablets in classes (six specific categories). [Results] The Friedman test had significant results, and a significant primary effect was observed between each questionnaire item. Following this, the Bonferroni test was performed for multiple comparisons, with significant differences were observed among certain items. [Conclusion] We reported employing tablets in the classroom positively impacted collaborative learning. Here, among the evaluations of collaborative learning, the items with the best results corresponded mainly to communication activation between students.

The relationship between body sway patterns and motor and attentional functions in early childhood

Abstract: [Purpose] We focused on the relationship between body sway patterns and motor and attentional functions in early childhood, and classified diagrams of body sway into four patterns. Furthermore, the relationship between physical fitness tests and Interactive Metronome (IM) tasks was used to determine whether the body sway patterns are indicators of motor and attentional functions in early childhood. [Participants and Methods] Participants were 24 male and 26 female children with a mean age of 2,148.1 ± 103.7 days. Participants were evaluated using physical fitness tests, body sway measures, baseline scores on the IM task (the “task average”), and the percentage of perfect hits (“Super Right On”) on the IM task (the “Super Right On” score, or SRO%). [Results] The association between the body sway pattern and motor and attentional functions was examined, and results revealed that the body sway pattern was only slightly associated with motor functions. However, participants with an anterior-posterior pattern of body sway had worse timing and attentional functions than participants with other patterns, as indicated by a lower task average and SRO% on the IM task. [Conclusion] These results suggested that anterior-posterior sway may reflect attentional functions when body sway is measured in children such as 6 year-olds.

Changes in pulmonary function following thoracic spine manipulation in a healthy inactive older adult population—a pilot study

Abstract: [Purpose] Pulmonary function pathology is primarily treated pharmacologically, with a range of medication side effects. Few studies have systematically examined non-pharmacologic approaches such as joint manipulation effects on pulmonary function. This study examined the immediate and short-term effects of thoracic manipulation on pulmonary function. [Participants and Methods] Twenty-one physically inactive otherwise healthy participants aged 50 years or older were randomly assigned to either receive three sessions of thoracic manipulation (n=10) or three sessions of “sham intercostal training” (n=11). Outcome measures included forced vital capacity, maximal voluntary ventilation and thoracic excursion during maximal inhalation and exhalation. [Results] There was a statistically significant difference in maximal voluntary ventilation in the manipulation group, when measured within a week of the third intervention session and immediate effects in thoracic excursion during exhalation in the sham group following a single intervention session. There were no significant changes in other measures. [Conclusion] Spinal manipulation had no immediate effect on pulmonary function, however, affected an improvement in maximal voluntary ventilation within 7 days following a third session. The sham intervention showed a change in thoracic excursion during exhalation after the first session. Future research is necessary to further explore the relationship between thoracic manipulation and pulmonary function.

Relationship between the bilateral ratios of the thoracic shape and electromyographic activity of the thoracic and lumbar iliocostalis muscles during thoracic lateral translation

Abstract: [Purpose] This study aimed to determine the relationship between thoracic lateral deviation, the bilateral ratio of the thoracic shape, and the bilateral ratio of the thoracic and lumbar iliocostalis muscles during resting sitting and thoracic lateral translation. [Participants and Methods] We included 23 healthy adult males in the study. The measurement tasks were resting sitting and thoracic lateral translation relative to the pelvis. The thoracic lateral deviation and bilateral ratio of the upper and lower thoracic shapes were measured using three-dimensional motion capture. The bilateral ratio of the thoracic and lumbar iliocostalis muscles were measured using the surface electromyographic recording. [Results] The bilateral ratio of the lower thoracic shape was significantly positively correlated with the thoracic translation distance and the bilateral ratio of the thoracic and iliocostalis muscles. In addition, the bilateral ratio of the thoracic iliocostalis muscles was significantly negatively correlated with the bilateral ratios of the lower thoracic shape and lumbar iliocostalis muscles. [Conclusion] Our findings showed that the asymmetry of the lower thoracic shape is associated with left lateral deviation of the thorax at rest and thoracic translation distance. In addition, the thoracic and lumbar iliocostalis muscle activity differed between the left and right translations.

Contralaterally-controlled functional electrical stimulation-induced muscle contraction for severe lower extremity paralysis

Abstract: [Purpose] We describe a new method of functional electrical stimulation therapy for severe hemiparesis. Conventional functional electrical stimulation of the lower legs has limited applications. It is only suitable for patients who can monitor their muscle contractions, and it has complicated equipment installation procedures. [Participant and Methods] The participant was a male in his 40s with severe motor paralysis following brain surgery. We monitored the participant’s healthy side using the external assist mode of an Integrated Volitional Control Electrical Stimulation (IVES® OG Giken, Okayama, Japan) system while forcibly contracting the paralyzed side. The participant received this new functional electrical stimulation therapy five times per week. [Results] Two weeks after initiation of therapy, paralysis was noticeably improved, and motor function was maintained for approximately 1 year. [Conclusion] The outcomes of this case suggest that the addition of forced contraction therapy, mirror therapy, and repetitive exercise therapy to regular physical therapy may be beneficial. This treatment method may also be useful in postoperative patients with central motor palsy and no muscle contraction ability.

Intra- and inter-rater reliability of angle assessment for righting reaction from a tilted sitting position in healthy participants

Abstract: [Purpose] Lateral balance and the righting reaction are related to trunk function and many activities of daily living. However, there are no studies evaluating the assessment of the righting reaction while ensuring safety. This study aimed to clarify the reliability of assessments for the righting reaction from a tilted sitting position in healthy participants. [Participants and Methods] The participants of this study included 28 healthy young adults. Before the start of the study, markers were attached to the participants for data collection. Participants were asked to sit on a vertical board, tilted 10 degrees, and were asked to perform the righting reaction. This test was repeated four times on each side. The actions were recorded with a video camera, and two analysts used the Image J software to calculate the angles of the righting reaction of the neck, trunk, and left and right lower legs. [Results] High reliability was obtained regardless of the tilt direction and site of righting reaction. In addition, no adverse events occurred. [Conclusion] It was possible to evaluate the righting reaction while ensuring safety, and reproducibility was confirmed.

Effect of ukemi practice in judo on fear of falling and mobility skills in healthy older adults

Abstract: [Purpose] To examine whether fear of falling and mobility skills improved after judo ukemi practice in healthy older adults, and whether a relationship exists between improvements in fear of falling and changes in mobility skills. [Participants and Methods] Ten healthy older adults who participated in exercise classes for middle-aged and elderly people to promote health performed ukemi practice three times in total, increasing the degree of difficulty every week. [Results] No significant differences in fear of falling or 10-m walking times were noted in Steps 1, 2, and 3. A significant reduction in timed up and go test results was observed in Steps 2 and 3. No correlation was found between change in fear of falling and change in mobility skills before and after ukemi practice for all combinations. [Conclusion] The results suggest that judo ukemi practice improves mobility skills in healthy older individuals with relatively high physical ability. These changes may not be due to a reduced fear of falling but rather to quicker physical reactivity and other psychological factors.

Comparison of changes in thigh circumference during the menstrual cycle between female transfemoral amputees and non-amputee females: examination of the reliability and comparison of diurnal and day-to-day fluctuations

Abstract: [Purpose] Few studies have investigated diurnal and day-to-day changes in the thigh circumference of the residual limb in female amputees. In this study, we used a limb circumference measuring device to confirm the reliability of the measurement and compared the changes in the measured values over time. [Participants and Methods] The study measured and compared the femoral circumference in 2 female amputees and 8 healthy female non-amputees in the morning and evening. [Results] Reliability was assured by measuring the circumferential diameter in triplicate. There were no significant interactions in both diurnal and day-to-day variations, however, in both variations, there were significant differences in the femoral circumstance at any site among the non-amputees. [Conclusion] The amount of edema increased in the evening and varied from day to day in the non-amputees.

Relationship between toe grip strength and dynamic balance in older adult patients with femoral neck fracture

Abstract: [Purpose] Femoral neck fractures are a common problem resulting from balance impairment. Toe grip strength is related to balance function. This study aimed to confirm the type of balance function that is highly related to toe grip strength. [Participants and Methods] The participants included 15 patients who were examined for differences in toe grip strength between the affected and nonaffected side. The relationship between toe grip strength and functional balance scale (FBS) and index of postural stability (IPS) was analyzed. [Results] The result showed no significant difference between the nonaffected and affected sides. A correlation exists between toe grip strength and FBS and IPS. In addition, the data from the center-of-gravity sway meter showed a correlation only between the toe grip strength and anteroposterior diameter of the stable area but not between the right and left diameters of the stable area and anterior and posterior trajectory lengths. [Conclusion] No significant difference was found between the affected and nonaffected sides. The results suggest that toe grip strength is related to the ability to move the center of gravity forward and backward rather than to sustain the center of gravity.

Empirical study on the effectiveness of online groups using a mobile health application for middle-aged and older adults to continue exercising

Abstract: [Purpose] This study aimed to determine the effects of a mobile health application, and exercise instructions by a physical therapist on exercise frequency, duration, and intensity for middle-aged and older adults. [Participants and Methods] The study included males and females in their 50s to 70s, who provided consent to participate. Thirty-six people who wished to participate in the online group were divided into groups of five or six each, with a physical therapist as group leader. The frequency, intensity, duration of exercise, and group activities were surveyed using questionnaires: before coronavirus disease (COVID-19) (before March 2020, when the novel coronavirus began to spread in Japan), during COVID-19 (after April 2020), after digital versatile disc (DVD) distribution, and after online group initiation (3 weeks after DVD distribution for the control group). [Results] The online group received significantly more frequent instructions by a physiotherapist than the control group. The control group did not show significant changes over time, whereas the online group exercised significantly, more frequently after the intervention. [Conclusion] The online mode and physical therapist intervention resulted in a significant increase in exercise frequency. Exercise advice from professionals and peer presence to continue exercising together were beneficial.

Whole body vibration activates the tonic vibration reflex during voluntary contraction

Abstract: [Purpose] The beneficial neuromuscular effects of whole-body vibration are explained by the tonic vibration or bone myoregulation reflex. Depending on factors that remain undefined, whole-body vibration may activate the tonic vibration or bone myoregulation reflex. We aimed to examine whether voluntary contraction facilitates activation of the tonic vibration reflex during whole-body vibration. [Participants and Methods] Eleven volunteers were included in this study. Local and whole-body vibrations were applied in a quiet standing (without voluntary contraction) and a semi-squatting (isometric soleus contraction) position. Local vibration was applied to the Achilles tendon. Surface electromyography was obtained from the soleus muscle. The cumulative average method was used to determine soleus reflex latency. [Results] In the quiet standing position, the bone myoregulation reflex latency was 39.9 ± 4.1 milliseconds and the tonic vibration reflex latency was 35.4 ± 3.6 milliseconds. Whole-body vibration application in the semi-squatting position activated the tonic vibration reflex in four participants and the bone myoregulation reflex in seven participants. Local vibration activated the tonic vibration reflex in both positions for all participants. [Conclusion] Simultaneous whole-body vibration application and voluntary contraction may activate the tonic vibration reflex. Determining the spinal mechanisms underlying the whole-body vibration exercises will enable their effective and efficient use in rehabilitation and sports.

Relationship of early postoperative perceived leg length discrepancy to the progression of osteoarthritis in the contralateral hip after unilateral total hip arthroplasty—a retrospective cohort study using propensity score matching

Abstract: [Purpose] This study aimed to identify the relationship between the early postoperative perceived leg length discrepancy after unilateral total hip arthroplasty and the progression of osteoarthritis in the contralateral hip. [Participants and Methods] This was a retrospective cohort study of 65 patients who underwent primary unilateral total hip arthroplasty for bilateral hip osteoarthritis. The minimum joint space width of the contralateral hip was measured preoperatively. The change in minimum joint space width one year postoperatively compared with preoperatively was measured. At three weeks postoperatively, patients were divided into the perceived and non-perceived leg length discrepancy groups using the block test. Patients with a perceived leg length discrepancy of 2 mm or more and less than 2 mm were grouped into the perceived and non-perceived leg length discrepancy groups, respectively. Before and after propensity score matching, the change in minimum joint space width between the two groups from the preoperative period to one year postoperatively was compared. [Results] In the pre-propensity matching sample, there was no significant difference in the change in minimum joint space width between the two groups. In the post-propensity matching sample, the change in minimum joint space width in the perceived leg length discrepancy group was significantly larger than that in the non-perceived leg length discrepancy group. [Conclusion] The early postoperative perceived leg length discrepancy after unilateral total hip arthroplasty may affect the progression of osteoarthritis in the contralateral hip.

Effect of visual information from binocular vision on the motor control of step over obstacles in walking with 90° turn

Abstract: [Purpose] This study aimed to clarify the relationship between one-eye visual deprivation; thus, interfering with stereoscopic perception, and movement and obtain insights on the influence of visual perception on movement to step over obstacles. [Participants and Methods] Participants were 25 healthy individuals. There were two conditions of visual perception (stationary and approaching conditions) and two additional conditions of binocular and monocular visions. Under the four conditions, participants were asked to step over an obstacle immediately after a 90° turn while walking. Distance between the foot and obstacle, foot pressure distribution, and stance phase time were measured. [Results] Toe clearance was lower in the approaching condition than that in the binocular stationary condition. The trajectory length ratio was greater in the approaching condition than that in the stationary condition, and heel-ground contact, metatarsal-ground contact, and stance times were all shorter in the binocular condition. Additionally, heel contact, midfoot contact, metatarsal contact, and stance times were shorter in the approaching condition than that in the stationary condition. [Conclusion] In walking with a 90° turn, the binocular approaching condition provided more visual information and positively affected motor control of movements to step over an obstacle.

Effect of intramuscular lidocaine injection with physical therapy on camptocormia in patients with Parkinson’s disease who had previously had deep brain stimulation

Abstract: [Purpose] We aimed to evaluate the effects of an intervention consisting of intramuscular lidocaine injection in combination with physical therapy on the standing posture, balance ability, and walking ability in patients with Parkinson’s disease who had camptocormia after deep brain stimulation. [Participants and Methods] The participants were nine patients with Parkinson’s disease who had previously undergone deep brain stimulation. The intervention comprised a lidocaine injection into the abdominal external oblique muscles for five days in combination with physical therapy, including body weight-supported treadmill training for two weeks. Before and after the intervention, the total and upper camptocormia angles were used to assess the standing posture; the Berg balance scale was used to assess the balancing ability; and maximum walking speed and stride length were used to assess the walking ability. [Results] The total and upper camptocormia angles, and Berg balance scale improved significantly more after the intervention than before. Before and after the intervention, there was no significant difference in maximum walking speed, but the stride length was significantly greater after the intervention than before. [Conclusion] The intervention was effective in alleviating camptocormia and improving the balance and walking abilities of patients with Parkinson’s disease with camptocormia after deep brain stimulation.

Validating scapular motion measurements using an optical motion analyzer and gravity magnetic resonance imaging

Abstract: [Purpose] This study aimed to validate whether scapular motion measured using a pad with retroreflective markers and optical motion analyzer (VICON MX) can reflect the motion calculated by images using multi-posture (gravity) magnetic resonance imaging. [Participants and Methods] The participants were 12 healthy males (12 dominant-side shoulders). The measurement items were the scapular angle at shoulder flexion 140° and 160° and abduction 100°, 120°, 140°, and 160°. The scapular angle changes were extracted from the upward/downward and internal/external rotations. Angular changes were calculated by subtracting the scapular angle in static position (drooped upper limb and external shoulder rotation) during resting chair sitting from the scapular angle in each of the six limb positions and subtracting it at shoulder abduction 100° from the scapular angle at shoulder abduction 120°, 140°, and 160°. [Results] The results showed no agreement in most cases and no consistent bias. [Conclusion] The result questions the validity of scapular motion analysis using pads with optical markers. However, the facility environment imposes many study limitations, and this method requires further validation eventually.

Division of loading time in reloading the disused atrophic soleus muscle induces proximal muscle injury

Abstract: [Purpose] This study aimed to compare the effects of loading time division in reloading atrophied muscles in different muscle long-axis regions. [Materials and Methods] We divided 8-week-old male Wistar rats into control (CON), 14-day hindlimb suspension (HS), 7-day hindlimb suspension followed by 60-min reloading for 7 consecutive days (WO), and 7-day hindlimb suspension followed by 60-min reloading on two separate occasions for 7 days (WT) groups. After the experimental period, muscle fibre cross-sectional area and necrotic fibre/central nuclei fibre ratio were measured in the soleus muscle’s proximal, middle, and distal regions. [Results] The necrotic fibre/central nuclei fibre ratio was higher in the WT group than in the other groups in the proximal region. Proximal muscle fibre cross-sectional area was higher in the CON group than in the other groups. In the middle region, only HS group had muscle fibre cross-sectional area lower than the CON group. Similarly, muscle fibre cross-sectional area of the HS group was lower than the CON and WT groups in the distal region. [Conclusion] When reloading atrophied muscles, dividing the loading time can inhibit atrophy in the distal region but induce muscle injury in the proximal region.

Corrigendum: Relationships between physical, cognitive, and social frailty and locomotive and non-locomotive physical activity of moderate to vigorous intensity

Abstract: [This corrects the article on p. 426 in vol. 35 PMC10231973.].

Female athlete triad cross-sectional study of soccer players by level of competition

Abstract: [Purpose] To determine the actual status of the Female Athlete Triad (low energy availability, menstrual dysfunction, and bone mineral density loss) in soccer players. [Participants and Methods] The survey was conducted between February 1 and March 1, 2022. It included 115 females between the ages of 12 and 28 registered with the Japan Football Association, from teams at different levels. [Results] Players in the top league did not differ in height and weight but were older and had a better understanding of caloric intake. There were no differences in amenorrhea or history of bone fractures based on league. [Conclusion] Of the female soccer players in the four different levels of competition, only the players in the top league had a better understanding of available energy and took preventive measures against the Female Athlete Triad.

The sitting active and prone passive lag test: a validity study in a symptomatic knee population

Abstract: [Purpose] This study aimed to determine the diagnostic utility of the sitting active and prone passive lag test in identifying terminal extension lag in unilaterally symptomatic knees. The lack of full extension at the knee leads to greater force of quadriceps activation, overloading of the weight bearing joints, abnormal gait mechanics, resulting in pain and dysfunction. [Participants and Methods] Participants were randomly assigned and evaluated by two blinded examiners, to determine the presence of extension lag at the knee. The reproducibility of test results between examiners was determined, for reliability. In addition, the ability of the test to identify the presence of extension lag in symptomatic knees and absence of extension lag in asymptomatic knees was assessed, for validity. [Results] The results revealed the test to possess an ‘almost perfect’ inter-rater reliability, high sensitivity, and moderate specificity. [Conclusion] The sitting active and prone passive lag test may be incorporated as a reliable and valid test to determine the presence of terminal knee extension lag in a unilaterally symptomatic knee population.

Relative and absolute reliability of gait variables obtained from gait analysis with trunk acceleration in community-dwelling individuals with chronic stroke: a pilot study

Abstract: [Purpose] This pilot study aimed to investigate the relative and absolute reliability of variables obtained from an acceleration-based gait analysis conducted at comfortable and maximal gait speeds in individuals with chronic stroke. [Participants and Methods] This study included 25 community-dwelling individuals with chronic stroke. The participants wore triaxial accelerometers, while an observed walking trial was performed at comfortable and maximal speeds on two separate days 1 week apart. Relative reliability was evaluated using the intraclass correlation coefficient, and absolute reliability was evaluated using the Bland–Altman analysis, standard error of measurement, and minimal detectable change. [Results] The intraclass correlation coefficient of gait varied according to the acceleration-based gait analysis, ranging from 0.70 to 0.99. The Bland–Altman analysis revealed no systematic bias in both comfortable and maximal gait speed conditions. Most of the minimal detectable changes were smaller at maximal gait speed than at comfortable gait speed. [Conclusion] Acceleration-based gait analysis is a reliable method, particularly in maximal gait speed conditions. It may be used to assess the effect of rehabilitation interventions in individuals with chronic stroke.

Interpersonal counseling versus active listening in the treatment of mild depression: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract: [Purpose] Healthcare workers, such as physical therapists, need to be equipped in dealing with patients’ psychological problems. The three-session interpersonal counseling (three-session IPC) is a constructed counseling method that can be performed even by non-mental health professionals. This study examined the efficacy of the three-session IPC for treating depression. Immediate efficacy and efficacy up to 12 weeks post-intervention were examined. [Participants and Methods] In this randomized controlled trial of the two groups, one group (n=24) received the three-session IPC therapy (IPC group) while the other (n=24) received three sessions of active listening (active listening group). Depression was assessed using the Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) at baseline, post-intervention, and at 4, 8, and 12 weeks. [Results] There was a significant difference in total SDS scores between the IPC and active listening groups from baseline to 4 weeks after counseling, although no significant differences were observed at other time points. [Conclusion] The three-session IPC may be effective for 4 weeks after counseling. However, further studies are warranted in this regard.