 |  | First Aid | First Aid
Overview
This First Aid module provides structured, practical learning that is directly relevant to professional practice. It equips participants with essential knowledge and decision-making skills needed to respond appropriately in emergency situations, while reinforcing patient safety, ethical care, and timely referral.
The module covers key first aid principles such as preservation of life, prevention of deterioration, promotion of recovery, scene safety, infection prevention, and consent, as well as core emergency responses including basic life support, AED awareness, and management of medical and trauma incidents.
Author Sharespike Knowledge Studio
| 3 | | R565.00 |  |
 |  | Short-Term Effects of Spinal Manual Therapy on the Nervous System in Managing Musculoskeletal Pain: A Systematic Review | Short-Term Effects of Spinal Manual Therapy on the Nervous System in Managing Musculoskeletal Pain: A Systematic Review
Short-Term Effects of Spinal Manual Therapy on the Nervous System in Managing Musculoskeletal Pain: A Systematic Review
Overview
This systematic review examined the short-term effects of spinal manual therapy (SMT) on pain perception, central nervous system (CNS) activity and autonomic nervous system (ANS) responses in adults with musculoskeletal pain or healthy controls.
Following PRISMA guidelines, eleven randomised controlled trials were included and synthesised narratively (no meta-analysis), with quality appraised using the PEDro scale. SMT produced variable effects on pain, with more consistent reductions when applied frequently and using standardised protocols, while its effects on CNS and ANS measures were inconsistent across trials. It was concluded that the evidence remains limited and call for higher-quality, standardised studies.
Journal: Journal of Clinical Medicine (MDPI)
| 3 | | R510.00 |  |
 |  | Efficacy of Non-Surgical, Non-Pharmacological Treatments for Congenital Muscular Torticollis: a systematic review and meta-analysis | Efficacy of Non-Surgical, Non-Pharmacological Treatments for Congenital Muscular Torticollis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Efficacy of Non-Surgical, Non-Pharmacological Treatments for Congenital Muscular Torticollis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Overview
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the efficacy and safety of non-surgical, non-pharmacological treatments for congenital muscular torticollis (CMT) in children aged 0 to 5 years, across disciplines and without language restriction. From 100 randomised trials (8,125 participants), adding manual therapy to an active control produced short-term gains in cervical rotation and lateroflexion, symmetric head posture, symmetrical movement and reduced sternocleidomastoid tumour thickness; electrophysical agents also reduced tumour thickness, and optimised Tuina outperformed traditional Tuina. Adverse events were uncommon but poorly reported, and overall certainty was very low to low because of high risk of bias, small samples and heterogeneity.
Journal: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders
| 3 | | R510.00 |  |
 |  | Effect of Different Manoeuvres of Repositioning on Benign Paroxysmal Vertigo: a network meta-analysis | Effect of Different Manoeuvres of Repositioning on Benign Paroxysmal Vertigo: a network meta-analysis
Effect of Different Manoeuvres of Repositioning on Benign Paroxysmal Vertigo: a network meta-analysis
Overview
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), or "ear stone disease," is the most common peripheral vestibular disorder. It causes recurrent, brief vertigo triggered by head or body position changes and is often accompanied by nystagmus and autonomic symptoms. This Bayesian network meta-analysis of 22 randomised controlled trials (2,507 participants) found that the Epley, Gufoni, Gans Repositioning (GRM), Modified Epley (MEM), and Semont manoeuvres significantly improved symptom remission compared with usual treatment.
Overall, GRM, MEM, SEM, and Self-Epley appear effective for BPPV, but study limitations and possible publication bias mean the findings should be interpreted cautiously. Larger, high-quality multicentre randomised trials are still needed.
| 3 | | R525.00 |  |
 |  | Do Audible Sounds During a Metacarpophalangeal and Metatarsophalangeal Thrust Manipulation Have an Impact on Intra-Articular Joint Space and Brainwave Activity? | Do Audible Sounds During a Metacarpophalangeal and Metatarsophalangeal Thrust Manipulation Have an Impact on Intra-Articular Joint Space and Brainwave Activity?
Do Audible Sounds During a Metacarpophalangeal and Metatarsophalangeal Thrust Manipulation Have an Impact on Intra-Articular Joint Space and Brainwave Activity?
Overview
Joint manipulation is commonly used to manage musculoskeletal dysfunctions. Joint manipulation can result in audible sounds. The clinical significance and cause of manipulation sound remain unclear. This study aimed to identify intra-articular distance following a metacarpophalangeal (MCP) II and metatarsophalangeal (MTP) II joint manipulation in healthy subjects. Additionally, the cortical response pattern was measured.
It was concluded that this study supports the tribonucleation theory explaining audible joint manipulation sounds. The manipulation of the MCP II joint resulted in increased Theta wave activity, indicating a state of relaxation, which was larger in the audible group. The MTP II manipulation had decreased cortical effects regardless of the presence of a sound.
Journal: Healthcare (MDPI) Volume 13, Issue 5, article 554 (2025)
| 3 | | R510.00 |  |
 |  | Assessment of variability in traction interventions for patients with low back pain: a systematic review | Assessment of variability in traction interventions for patients with low back pain: a systematic review
Assessment of variability in traction interventions for patients with low back pain: a systematic review
Overview
This systematic review examined the variability of lumbar traction interventions across randomised controlled trials for low back pain (LBP) with or without sciatica. They argue this heterogeneity makes pooling studies problematic and may explain prior negative conclusions about traction’s effectiveness, highlighting the need for standardised dosing protocols and better patient subgrouping.
Journal: Chiropractic & Manual Therapies
| 3 | | R510.00 |  |
 |  | Analgesic Effects of Non-Surgical and Non-Interventional Treatments for Low Back Pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of placebo-controlled randomised trials | Analgesic Effects of Non-Surgical and Non-Interventional Treatments for Low Back Pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of placebo-controlled randomised trials
Analgesic Effects of Non-Surgical and Non-Interventional Treatments for Low Back Pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of placebo-controlled randomised trials
Overview
This systematic review and meta-analysis, pooled 301 placebo-controlled randomised trials covering 56 non-surgical and non-interventional treatments for non-specific low back pain. Only about one in ten treatments proved efficacious, and effects were small.
For acute pain, NSAIDs showed moderate-certainty benefit; for chronic pain, exercise, spinal manipulative therapy, taping, antidepressants and TRPV1 agonists did. Glucocorticoid injections, paracetamol, anaesthetics and antibiotics were not efficacious, while most remaining treatments had inconclusive evidence owing to small samples and methodological limitations.
| 3 | | R525.00 |  |
 |  | Fatigue-induced biomechanical decoupling at L4-S1 discs: mechanism of disc degeneration in chronic low back pain | Fatigue-induced biomechanical decoupling at L4-S1 discs: mechanism of disc degeneration in chronic low back pain
Fatigue-induced biomechanical decoupling at L4-S1 discs: mechanism of disc degeneration in chronic low back pain
Overview
This study investigated how fatigue affects the biomechanics of the lower lumbar discs (L4–S1) in people with chronic low back pain (CLBP). Using dual fluoroscopic imaging and CT-based modelling, researchers compared disc height and strain patterns during flexion–extension movements before and after fatigue. They found that CLBP patients showed significant post fatigue disc height loss—especially at L5/S1—and abnormal strain patterns marked by increased compressive strain and reduced shear strain redistribution. These changes were not seen in healthy controls.
The findings highlight a fatigue induced biomechanical vulnerability at the lumbosacral junction, offering insight into mechanisms that may drive disc degeneration in CLBP.
Journal BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders
| 3 | | R485.00 |  |
 |  | Efficacy and safety of spinal manipulative therapy in the management of acute neck pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis | Efficacy and safety of spinal manipulative therapy in the management of acute neck pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Efficacy and safety of spinal manipulative therapy in the management of acute neck pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Overview
Acute neck pain (ANP) can occur suddenly and rapidly progress, resulting in severe pain and detrimental effects on the patient’s well-being. Neck pain ranks as the fourth most common cause of disability worldwide, with an annual prevalence exceeding 30%. The neck, a flexible structure that supports the weight of the head, is susceptible to pain and restricted movement. While many cases of ANP resolve either with or without treatment, approximately half of the affected individuals continue to experience chronic or episodic pain
This study aims to comprehensively evaluate the efficacy and safety of SMT in the treatment of ANP. It was concluded that the evidence supports the use of SMT as an effective and safe intervention for reducing pain, improving CROM, and decreasing disability in patients with ANP. These findings provide valuable insights for clinical practitioners and highlight the potential of SMT as a viable therapeutic option in managing ANP.
Journal
Systematic Reviews
| 3 | | R485.00 |  |
 |  | Effectiveness of Musculoskeletal Manipulations in Patients with Neck Pain: a systematic review and network meta-analysis | Effectiveness of Musculoskeletal Manipulations in Patients with Neck Pain: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Effectiveness of Musculoskeletal Manipulations in Patients with Neck Pain: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Overview Neck pain, defined as cervical discomfort lasting at least 24 hours, now affects about 288.7 million people globally, with a prevalence rate of 27 per 1,000—numbers expected to rise. It is the fourth leading cause of disability worldwide, often linked to inactivity and frequent computer use. Musculoskeletal manipulation, a non-invasive technique involving targeted force on joints and soft tissues, aims to improve function and support tissue repair. Using multimodal treatment approaches may offer better results by addressing multiple factors contributing to neck pain. This study aims to evaluate the relative effectiveness of different musculoskeletal manipulation techniques in managing neck pain. The growing prevalence and significant impact of neck pain on global health highlight the importance of identifying optimal treatment strategies. Ultimately, evidence-based multimodal interventions may offer improved relief and functional recovery for those affected by this common and disabling condition.
Journal BMJ Open Volume 15, Issue 10
| 3 | | R465.00 |  |
 |  | Diagnostic accuracy of the compression overload test versus straight leg Raise test in detecting lumbar disc herniation: an MRI-Validated Cross-Sectional study | Diagnostic accuracy of the compression overload test versus straight leg Raise test in detecting lumbar disc herniation: an MRI-Validated Cross-Sectional study
Diagnostic accuracy of the compression overload test versus straight leg Raise test in detecting lumbar disc herniation: an MRI-Validated Cross-Sectional study
Overview:
Low back pain (LBP) remains a significant and persistent global health issue, and currently, the leading cause of years lived with disability (YLDs), affecting over 540 million individuals globally at any given time. In India, the lifetime prevalence of LBP is estimated to be around 66%, with manual workers and rural populations experiencing the highest burden. The high prevalence of LBP is commonly associated with mechanical stress and high spinal loading.
The purpose of this study is to determine the diagnostic performance of the Compression Overload Test (COLT) compared with the Straight Leg Raise Test (SLRT) in detecting lumbar intervertebral disc herniation (IVDH), using MRI as the reference standard. A secondary objective was to evaluate the correlation between each test and MRI results.
In conclusion COLT showed higher diagnostic utility than SLRT and correlated well with MRI results.
Journal:
European Spine Journal
| 3 | | R485.00 |  |
| | Healthcare provision for medical tourism: A comparative review | Healthcare provision for medical tourism: A comparative review
Healthcare provision for medical tourism: A comparative review
Overview Providing health care is the core and main element of the health system, which improves patients’ health and well being. Quality in the health system is defined as providing safe, timely, effective, efficient, fair, and patient centered care. The five dimensions of service quality include tangible dimensions (conditions and atmosphere of the service delivery environment, including facilities, equipment, employees, and communication channels), reliability dimension (ability to perform the service reliably), responsiveness dimension (willingness to cooperate and help the customer), assurance dimension (competence and ability of employees to instil a sense of trust and confidence in the customer), and empathy dimension (special treatment with each customer according to their mood, so that the customers are satisfied with the respect and understanding on the part of the organization). Considering the problems of the process in providing welfare services for medical tourists, the license and activities of medical tourism companies should be facilitated so that the mentioned companies can provide welfare and non medical services to patients along with hospitals.
Journal
Journal of Education and Health Promotion Volume 13 Issue 1
| 3 | | R475.00 |  |
| | H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu) | H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu)
H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu)
Overview
H1N1 influenza, referred to as swine flu, is a highly contagious respiratory disease in pigs caused by one of several swine influenza A viruses, as recently reviewed. Transmission of swine influenza viruses to humans is uncommon.
Swine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory disease in pigs caused by one of several swine influenza A viruses, as recently reviewed. In addition, influenza C viruses may also cause illness in swine. Strategies to control swine influenza virus (SIV) in animals typically include one of several commercially available bivalent swine influenza virus vaccines. Once a human becomes infected, he or she then can spread the virus to other humans.
| 3 | | R485.00 |  |
| | Application of artificial intelligence in X-ray imaging analysis for knee arthroplasty: A systematic review | Application of artificial intelligence in X-ray imaging analysis for knee arthroplasty: A systematic review
Application of artificial intelligence in X-ray imaging analysis for knee arthroplasty: A systematic review
Overview
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a promising and powerful technology with increasing use in orthopaedics. The global morbidity of knee arthroplasty is expanding. This study investigates the use of AI algorithms to review radiographs of knee arthroplasty.
Major databases were comprehensively searched through March 2024 (PROSPERO: CRD42024507549). The quality assessment of the diagnostic accuracy studies tool assessed the risk of bias. In conclusion of the study AI shows strong potential in identifying implants for knee arthroplasty. Further research should emphasize rigorous methodology, transparent reporting, and the development of accessible software and clinical tools.
Journal PLOS one
| 3 | | R490.00 |  |
| | HIV and Aids Part 2 | HIV and Aids Part 2
Overview
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus transmitted through sexual contact, shared needles, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. It belongs to the Retroviridae family. All patients who are diagnosed with HIV should be initiated on ART as soon as possible.
HIV can also lead to complications like dementia and chronic diarrhea with weight loss (HIV wasting syndrome).
Exceptions to this include patients presenting with cryptococcal meningitis (CM) or central nervous system tuberculosis (tuberculous meningitis (TBM) or tuberculoma).
| 3 | | R485.00 |  |
| | HIV and Aids Part 1 | HIV and Aids Part 1
Overview
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus transmitted through sexual contact, shared needles, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. It belongs to the Retroviridae family. Symptoms vary depending on the stage of infection and these include: - Acute stage, which resembles the flu, with fever, malaise, and a generalized rash;
- Asymptomatic stage which generally, has no symptoms.
- Lymphadenopathy, which presents with swelling of lymph nodes, which can be a primary symptom.
- AIDs, which is the advanced stage marked by severe infections or cancers.
HIV can also lead to complications like dementia and chronic diarrhea with weight loss (HIV wasting syndrome).
Sharespike Knowledge Studio
| 3 | | R485.00 |  |
| | Ebola Virus Infection | Ebola Virus Infection
Overview Ebola virus is one of at least 30 known viruses capable of causing viral hemorrhagic fever syndrome. The genus Ebolavirus currently is classified into 5 separate species: Sudan ebolavirus, Zaire ebolavirus, Tai Forest (Ivory Coast) ebolavirus, Reston ebolavirus, and Bundibugyo ebolavirus. The outbreak of Ebola virus disease in West Africa from 2014 to 2016, involving Zaire ebolavirus, was the largest outbreak of Ebola virus disease in history.
As of September 17, 2019, an active outbreak of Ebola virus disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) had resulted in 3,034 confirmed and 111 probable cases of Ebola virus disease, including 2,103 attributable deaths. An experimental vaccine has been credited with limiting the outbreak’s scope.
| 3 | | R500.00 |  |
| | Impact of isolated lumbar extension strength training on reducing nonspecific low back pain, disability, and improving function: a systematic review and meta-analysis | Impact of isolated lumbar extension strength training on reducing nonspecific low back pain, disability, and improving function: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Impact of isolated lumbar extension strength training on reducing nonspecific low back pain, disability, and improving function: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Overview
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effects of isolated lumbar extension (ILEX) strength training on nonspecific low back pain. The study included 8 randomized trials with 381 participants. ILEX was found to significantly reduce pain intensity, making it a valuable intervention for pain management. However, its impact on disability and physical functionality was less consistent and not significantly different from control groups. While ILEX showed moderate effects on strength, these were not consistently supported across all studies. Clinically, ILEX is effective for pain reduction but should be combined with pelvic stabilization techniques for better outcomes.
Journal
Nature Portfolio Scientific Reports Volume 15 Issue 1
| 3 | | R485.00 |  |
| | Influence of pain neuroscience education and exercises for the management of neck pain: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials | Influence of pain neuroscience education and exercises for the management of neck pain: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Influence of pain neuroscience education and exercises for the management of neck pain: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Overview
It is elusive to combine pain neuroscience education with exercises to treat neck pain, and this meta-analysis aims to study the efficacy of pain neuroscience education plus exercises for the treatment of neck pain. Several databases including PubMed, EMbase, Web of science, EBSCO, and Cochrane library databases were systemically searched from inception to August 2023, and we included the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effect of pain neuroscience education plus exercises on the relief of neck pain.
It was concluded that pain neuroscience education plus exercises is effective for the relief of neck pain.
Journal Medicine Volume 103 Issue 48
| 3 | | R485.00 |  |
| | Is Dry Needling Effective When Combined with Other therapies for Myofascial Trigger Points Associated with Neck Pain Symptom | Is Dry Needling Effective When Combined with Other therapies for Myofascial Trigger Points Associated with Neck Pain Symptom
Is Dry Needling Effective When Combined with Other therapies for Myofascial Trigger Points Associated with Neck Pain Symptom
Overview
Neck pain is the fourth ranked condition in number of years lived with disability and has a lifetime prevalence of 70% and a point prevalence of 20% in the general population. Physical therapy is often considered the first treatment option for people with neck pain. Different therapeutic strategies, e.g., cervical spine mobilizations and manipulations thoracic manipulations, therapeutic exercise or education, have shown to be effective for the treatment of neck pain. However, evidence supporting the use of other therapies proposed for the management of neck pain, such as dry needling, is still limited.
It is important to note that clinicians do not usually treat patients with neck pain with just one isolated intervention, and multimodal approaches are generally advocated. In fact, clinical practice guidelines for physical therapy management of people with neck pain recommend a combination of manual therapy combined with exercise as a potential therapeutic strategy for this population
This study concluded that Low-to-moderate evidence suggests a positive effect to the combination of dry needling with other interventions for improving pain intensity, pain-related disability, pressure pain thresholds, and cervical range of motion in people with neck pain associated with TrPs at short-term. No midterm or long-term effects were observed.
Journal
Hindawi Pain Research and Management Volume 2021, Article ID 8836427 – 24 pages
| 3 | | R485.00 |  |
| | Effectiveness of Dry Needling in Improving Pain and Function in Comparison with Other Techniques in Patients with Chronic Neck Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis | Effectiveness of Dry Needling in Improving Pain and Function in Comparison with Other Techniques in Patients with Chronic Neck Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Effectiveness of Dry Needling in Improving Pain and Function in Comparison with Other Techniques in Patients with Chronic Neck Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Overview
The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the short-, mid-, and long-term effectiveness of dry needling in improving pain and functional capacity of patients with chronic neck pain. Neck pain is suffered by at least 30% of adults worldwide with a prevalence of 24439 to 61512 cases per 100000 population. Chronic symptoms are developed by 44% of the patients and this condition is as important as lumbar pain in prevalence and duration. When the problem turns chronic, there is an elevated economic and healthcare cost Myofascial pain syndrome is defined as a set of autonomic, motor, and sensory signs and symptoms provoked by myofascial trigger points (MTPs). It often contributes to the appearance of mechanical neck pain, and it is associated with the chronification of the symptoms.
All the studies reported improvements in cervical pain and/or disability, regardless of the protocol followed and the muscles targeted. No serious adverse effects were reported. Dry needling showed to be more effective when compared with other therapies in both women and men, without differences by sex. When the analysis was carried out by age, patients over 40 years old benefitted more than those below 40 years old. Our meta-analysis supports the use of dry needling to improve pain and functional capacity in patients with chronic neck pain at short- and mid-term interval.
| 3 | | R485.00 |  |
| | Efficacy of Patellar Taping and Electromyographic Biofeedback Training at Various Knee Angles on Quadriceps Strength and Functional Performance in Young Adult Male Athletes with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial | Efficacy of Patellar Taping and Electromyographic Biofeedback Training at Various Knee Angles on Quadriceps Strength and Functional Performance in Young Adult Male Athletes with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Efficacy of Patellar Taping and Electromyographic Biofeedback Training at Various Knee Angles on Quadriceps Strength and Functional Performance in Young Adult Male Athletes with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Overview Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is referred to as peripatellar or retropatellar pain, which is characterized by alterations in the physical and biomechanical features of the patellofemoral joint. The most excruciating discomfort is experienced when sitting or kneeling for extended periods of time with bent knees and climbing or descending stairs. The severity of the articular lesion is the single most essential element in investigating the extent of flexion that is required for activities. However, a prior study found no differences in muscle strength gains of quadriceps muscles at different knee angles in people with patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS).
The object of this study is to confirm the effects of patellar taping and electromyographic biofeedback (EMG-BF)-guided isometric quadriceps strengthening at different knee angles (e.g., 30°, 60°, and 90° of knee flexion) on quadriceps strength and functional performance in people with PFPS were compared in this single-blind randomized controlled parallel trial.
The findings indicated that individuals who trained their quadriceps at a 60° knee angle had significantly stronger quadriceps muscles than individuals who trained at 30° or 90° of knee flexion.
| 3 | | R485.00 |  |
| | Influence of Blood Flow restriction Training on the Aerobic Capacity: A systematic review and meta-analysis | Influence of Blood Flow restriction Training on the Aerobic Capacity: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Influence of Blood Flow restriction Training on the Aerobic Capacity: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Overview
Blood flow restriction training (also known as KAATSU training) uses professional equipment to apply pressure to the base of the limbs to limit the blood flow at the distal end of the limbs during exercise, thereby stimulating muscle growth and improving muscle strength with a low exercise intensity. This study aimed to conduct a meta-analysis on the effects of blood flow restriction training on aerobic capacity. Methods: A systematic review and quantitative evidence synthesis (QES) was used to examine the effects of blood flow restriction training on the aerobic capacity. In addition, the effect of high intensity exercise is achieved with only a low-intensity load under blood flow restriction training, which has the advantages of low intensity, high frequency, and fast recovery. It was founded that blood flow restriction training promoted the improvement in aerobic capacity. Blood flow restriction training, which is a low intensity exercise, significantly affected aerobic capacity. Twelve blood flow restriction training sessions a week achieved significantly better results than a frequency of two to four training sessions per week. A daily blood flow restriction training session of 6 to 30 min significantly improved aerobic capacity.
| 3 | | R485.00 |  |
| | Acute and Short-Term Effects of Dry Needling in Patients with Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain and Hamstring Tightness: A Pilot Study | Acute and Short-Term Effects of Dry Needling in Patients with Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain and Hamstring Tightness: A Pilot Study
Acute and Short-Term Effects of Dry Needling in Patients with Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain and Hamstring Tightness: A Pilot Study
Overview
Low back pain (LBP) is one of the common health conditions, with a prevalence of 1.4–20% in developed countries and a global prevalence of 9.4%. In Iran, the prevalence of LBP is higher than average, and about 27% of Iranian adults suffer from chronic LBP. LBP leads to higher years lived with disability than other conditions globally. In most cases, no underlying pathological condition can be found as the cause of LBP, called nonspecific LBP.
Muscle tightness contributes to musculoskeletal conditions. Previous studies have found that hamstring tightness is a contributing factor to LBP. Tightness of hamstring muscles in patients with LBP influences lumbar pelvic rhythm and is associated with severe lumbar pain and changes in the sagittal curvature of spine. Therefore, physiotherapy interventions are often applied to target hamstring muscle tightness in patients with LBP. Dry needling (DN) is one of the physiotherapy interventions, which has been utilized in patients with LBP.
This pilot study supports the use of DN in patients with LBP and hamstring tightness.
Journal
Hindawi The Scientific World Journal
| 3 | | R485.00 |  |
| | Causal mechanisms of a scapular stabilization intervention for patients with subacromial pain syndrome: a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial | Causal mechanisms of a scapular stabilization intervention for patients with subacromial pain syndrome: a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial
Causal mechanisms of a scapular stabilization intervention for patients with subacromial pain syndrome: a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial
Overview
Causal mediation analysis is one way to bridge this gap by exploring the causal pathways of a given intervention. The aim of this study was to assess whether scapular motion, position, and periscapular muscle strength are mediators for pain and shoulder disability outcomes following a scapular stabilization intervention for patients with subacromial pain syndrome.
The results demonstrated that none of the putative mediators were influenced by the intervention. However, muscle strength of serratus anterior, upper, middle, and lower trapezius muscles was associated with shoulder disability. Scapular kinematic and periscapular muscle strength did not mediate the effect of scapular stabilization exercises on shoulder pain or disability scores in subjects with subacromial pain syndrome. Muscle strength of serratus anterior, upper, middle and lower trapezius was associated with shoulder disability scores at 8-weeks follow-up.
Journal Archives of Physiotherapy
| 3 | | R485.00 |  |
| | 12 weeks high intensity interval training versus moderate intensity continuous training in chronic low back pain subjects: a randomised single-blinded feasibility study | 12 weeks high intensity interval training versus moderate intensity continuous training in chronic low back pain subjects: a randomised single-blinded feasibility study
12 weeks high intensity interval training versus moderate intensity continuous training in chronic low back pain subjects: a randomised single-blinded feasibility study
Overview
Currently, very little is known about the effects of an endurance high intensity interval training in chronic low back pain patients. Therefore, the feasibility and safety of the HIIT has to be assessed first before it can be integrated safely into research and daily practice it can be integrated safely into research and daily practice. This study aims to answers the question if high intensity interval training and moderate intensity continuous training (MICT) have comparable adherence and feasibility.
After the study it was concluded that there were no differences in adherence rates. HIIT is as feasible as MICT in non-specific chronic low back pain and can be used in future larger trials to deepen the knowledge about HIIT in this specific population.
Journal Archives of Physiotherapy
| 3 | | R465.00 |  |
| | Effects of Resistance Training as a Behavioural Preventive Measure on Musculoskeletal Complaints, Maximum Strength and Ergonomic Risk in Dentists and Dental Assistants | Effects of Resistance Training as a Behavioural Preventive Measure on Musculoskeletal Complaints, Maximum Strength and Ergonomic Risk in Dentists and Dental Assistants
Effects of Resistance Training as a Behavioural Preventive Measure on Musculoskeletal Complaints, Maximum Strength and Ergonomic Risk in Dentists and Dental Assistants
Overview
For dental professionals, musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are common health hazards and resistance training programmes have been promising approaches in the quest for a reduction in the pain intensity of these professionals. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to investigate the effect of a trunk-oriented 10-week resistance training programme. In total, the study was conducted with 17 dentists and dental assistants. The results were that there was a significant reduction in pain intensity was found for each queried body region: the neck, upper back, lower back and the right and left shoulders. The maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) improved significantly in all outcome measures: flexion, extension, right and left lateral flexion and right and left rotation.
It was concluded that a 10-week resistance training programme for dentists and dental assistants had significant effects on pain intensity reduction and the MVIC of the musculature of the trunk and is, therefore, suitable as a behavioural preventive measure against MSD in dental professionals.
Journal
Sensors
| 3 | | R425.00 |  |
| | Nerve and Arterial Supply Pattern of the Popliteus Muscle and Clinical Implications | Nerve and Arterial Supply Pattern of the Popliteus Muscle and Clinical Implications
Nerve and Arterial Supply Pattern of the Popliteus Muscle and Clinical Implications
Overview: The popliteus muscle (PM) is a small muscle that acts as a major posterolateral stabilizer of the knee joint, rotating the tibia medially under the femur under non-weightbearing conditions. As the PM acts as an important factor in the movement and injury of the knee joint, anatomical studies have been conducted with a focus on the femoral attachment of the muscle.
Muscular spasticity is common in upper motor neuron syndrome. Injection treatment is applied as PM spasticity has been confirmed in many patients with in-toeing. One of the treatment methods, botulinum toxin, is known to have a long-lasting effect when injected into a site where the neuromuscular junction is dense. It is also effective when injected near the motor entry point where the nerve enters the muscle belly. Thus, a suitable injection site is thought to be the tibial region because the muscle belly is the upper portion on the tibial area on the posterior aspect. In this study, we speculated about the injection site of the PM based on the above reasoning. An alternative method is the accurate palpation of the PM, which is necessary for posture correction therapy.
The aim of this study was to investigate the nerve and artery supply and the tibial attachment of the popliteus muscle using anatomical methods.
| 3 | | R485.00 |  |
| | The Relationship Between Additional Heads of the Quadriceps Femoris, the Vasti Muscles, and the Patellar Ligament | The Relationship Between Additional Heads of the Quadriceps Femoris, the Vasti Muscles, and the Patellar Ligament
The Relationship Between Additional Heads of the Quadriceps Femoris, the Vasti Muscles, and the Patellar Ligament
Overview
The quadriceps femoris consists of four muscles: the rectus femoris, vastus medialis, vastus intermedius, and vastus lateralis. However, the effect of additional quadriceps femoris heads on the vasti muscles and patellar ligaments is unknown.
The quadriceps femoris muscle (QF) is important in locomotion; the rectus femoris (RF) swings the leg forward when a step is taken. During walking or running, quadriceps muscles such as the vastus medialis (VM) stabilize the patella and knee joint. The QF is important in sport owing to its potential for injury, which can be painful and debilitating.
The aims of the present study are to determine the relationship between additional quadriceps femoris heads and the vasti muscles and patellar ligaments and to review the morphology of the vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and vastus intermedius.
Journal
Hindawi BioMed Research International
| 3 | | R465.00 |  |
| | Fabella Syndrome and Common Peroneal Neuropathy following Total Knee Arthroplasty | Fabella Syndrome and Common Peroneal Neuropathy following Total Knee Arthroplasty
Fabella Syndrome and Common Peroneal Neuropathy following Total Knee Arthroplasty
Overview The fabella is a sesamoid bone in the lateral gastrocnemius that is present in 10-30% of the population. Despite its high prevalence, the fabella rarely causes pathology leading to delayed diagnoses and prolonged patient discomfort when symptomatic. The fabella syndrome is often associated with a snapping or clicking sensation that is exacerbated by aerobic activates. Fabella pathology is rare but increasingly recognized as a source of posterolateral knee pain following TKA. Initially believed to be unique to adolescents, fabella syndrome also affects older adults. When conservative interventions fail, surgical excision for treatment of fabella syndrome or fabella-associated common peroneal neuropathy has improved patient reported outcomes and returns to preinjury level of activities.
Significant mechanical alignment changes may create eccentric mechanical loads across the gastrocnemius tendon and embedded fabella. Furthermore, the correction of a flexion contracture with TKA may affect soft tissues posterior to the knee including the gastrocnemius tendon.
Authors Connor C. Diaz, Avinesh Agarwalla and Brian Forsythe
Journal Hindawi Case Reports in Orthopedics
| 3 | | R460.00 |  |
| | Effects of Deep Cervical Flexor Training on Forward Head Posture, Neck Pain, and Functional Status in Adolescents Using Computers Regularly | Effects of Deep Cervical Flexor Training on Forward Head Posture, Neck Pain, and Functional Status in Adolescents Using Computers Regularly
Effects of Deep Cervical Flexor Training on Forward Head Posture, Neck Pain, and Functional Status in Adolescents Using Computers Regularly
Overview:
Teaching is one of the professions where incidence and prevalence of neck pain is high. Prolonged use of computers, which has further increased due to online teaching amid pandemic, is known to cause neck pain and alter posture, while people with forward head posture (FHP) are prone to develop neck pain and related disability. Research has shown that impairment of deep cervical flexor (DCF) muscles leads to insufficiency in coordination, activation, overload, and poor support on cervical structures that further lead to development of neck pain and altered neck posture. The objective of this study was to see the effect of DCF muscle training using pressure biofeedback on pain and FHP in schoolteachers with neck pain.
This observational study was conducted at medical center in school premises. Fifty-five schoolteachers aged between 25 and 40 years with experience of more than 5 years were invited to participate in this study. Pain and FHP were assessed using NPRS and cranio-vertebral angle using digital photograph technique, respectively, at baseline and end of four weeks of treatment.
This study shows that although pain and FHP improved following conventional exercises in schoolteachers with neck pain, mean improvement was more significant among those who received additional DCF muscle training using pressure biofeedback.
Acknowledgments: Authors: Ahmad H. Alghadir and Zaheen A. Iqbal
Journal: BioMed Research International
| 3 | | R460.00 |  |
| | Previous History of Knee Arthroscopy in Patients Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty: An Examination of the Effect of the Literature and American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 2013 Arthroscopy Guidelines on Clinical Practice | Previous History of Knee Arthroscopy in Patients Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty: An Examination of the Effect of the Literature and American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 2013 Arthroscopy Guidelines on Clinical Practice
Previous History of Knee Arthroscopy in Patients Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty: An Examination of the Effect of the Literature and American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 2013 Arthroscopy Guidelines on Clinical Practice
Overview The purpose of this study was to compare the rate of previous knee arthroscopy in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) before (2005-2006) and after (2018) publication of landmark studies that examined the effectiveness of knee arthroscopy as well as the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 2013 knee arthroscopy guidelines. In this study a retrospective chart review of 214 patients who underwent a TKA between 2005 and 2006 (Group 1) and 213 patients who underwent a TKA in 2018 (Group 2) was performed. The medical records were to determine whether previous knee arthroscopy was performed. The findings suggests that the recommendations set forth by landmark clinical trials that examined the effectiveness of knee arthroscopy and the AAOS 2013 knee arthroscopy guidelines did not have a sudden impact within the geographic region, however there is significant evidence to suggest a gradual shift in treatment, where knee arthroscopy is withheld near imminent knee arthroplasty.
Authors Melissa A. Kluczynski, M.S.., Griffin Lunn, Matthew J. Phillips, M.D., andJohn M. Marzo, M.D
Journal Arthroscopy, Sports Medicine, and Rehabilitation
| 3 | | R485.00 |  |
| | Pain Management through Neurocognitive Therapeutic Exercises in Hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain | Pain Management through Neurocognitive Therapeutic Exercises in Hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain
Pain Management through Neurocognitive Therapeutic Exercises in Hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain
Overview The hypermobile type of Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (hEDS) is likely the most common hereditary disorder of connective tissue mainly characterized by joint hypermobility. Patients with hEDS suffer joint pain, in particular low back pain, commonly resistant to drug therapy. The aim of this research was to evaluate a neurocognitive rehabilitation approach based not only on the motion and function recovery but also on the pain management. In this nonrandomized clinical trial, eighteen hEDS patients (4 males and 14 females) with mean age 21 years (range 13-55) were recruited and evaluated before and after three months of rehabilitation treatment. The clinical results observed in this study seem to confirm the role of a specific neurocognitive rehabilitation program in the chronic pain management in the Ehlers–Danlos syndrome; the rehabilitation treatment should be tailored on patient problems and focused not only in the recovery of movement but also on pain perception.
Authors Claudia Celletti, Teresa Paolucci , Loredana Maggi, Giordana Volpi, Mariangela Billi, Roberta Mollica,and Filippo Camerota
Journal Hindawi BioMed Research International
| 3 | | R435.00 |  |