Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation
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Arch Phys Med Rehabil · Oct 2011
Evaluation of a peer-led falls prevention program for older adults.
To evaluate measures of strength and balance and falls incidence in participants attending fall prevention exercise classes taught by volunteer peer leaders, paid professional (Age Concern Otago group), or a comparison class (comparison group). ⋯ This peer-led model maintained measures of strength and balance and was superior to seated exercise. People in the Age Concern Otago group chose to continue these classes over other activities, whereas the comparison group had discontinued exercise classes by 12 months. Peer-led classes may decrease the fall incidence, although larger studies are needed to confirm this finding.
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Arch Phys Med Rehabil · Sep 2011
ReviewExtra physical therapy reduces patient length of stay and improves functional outcomes and quality of life in people with acute or subacute conditions: a systematic review.
To investigate whether extra physical therapy intervention reduces length of stay and improves patient outcomes in people with acute or subacute conditions. ⋯ Extra physical therapy decreases length of stay and significantly improves mobility, activity, and quality of life. Future research could address the possible benefits of providing extra services from other allied health disciplines in addition to physical therapy.
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Arch Phys Med Rehabil · Sep 2011
Case ReportsHyperbaric oxygen therapy in the management of paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity after severe traumatic brain injury: a report of 6 cases.
Paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity (PSH) after severe brain injury is detrimental to the recovery of patients. Pharmacologic management of PSH is difficult and efficacy is unpredictable or incomplete. ⋯ Thus, HBOT may present an option for the management of PSH in addition to pharmacologic therapy. Potential mechanisms for these effects are discussed.
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Arch Phys Med Rehabil · Sep 2011
Randomized Controlled TrialEffects of burst-type transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation on cervical range of motion and latent myofascial trigger point pain sensitivity.
To assess the effects of a burst application of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) on cervical range of motion and pressure point sensitivity of latent myofascial trigger points (MTrPs). ⋯ A 10-minute application of burst-type TENS increases in a small but statistically significant manner the RPPT over upper trapezius latent MTrPs and the ipsilateral cervical range of motion.
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Arch Phys Med Rehabil · Sep 2011
Autonomic dysreflexia during urodynamic examinations in patients with suprasacral spinal cord injury.
To investigate blood pressure (BP) and pulse rate (PR) changes during urodynamic (UD) examinations in patients with suprasacral spinal cord injury (SCI). ⋯ AD occurred not only in patients with lesions above T6, but also in those with lower lesion levels. Patients with higher injury level, continuous DSD, or a poorly compliant bladder had greater SBP changes during UD studies. During AD reactions, younger patients tended to have a greater PR decrease than older patients.