American journal of physical medicine & rehabilitation
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Am J Phys Med Rehabil · Jul 2006
Randomized Controlled TrialOne-year follow-up of two exercise interventions for the management of patients with ankylosing spondylitis: a randomized controlled trial.
To assess the long-term effects on functional and mobility outcomes of two exercise interventions for the management of patients with ankylosing spondylitis. ⋯ An exercise regimen based on the Global Posture Reeducation method and focusing on specific strengthening and flexibility exercises of the shortened muscle chains offers promising short- and long-term results in the management of patients who have ankylosing spondylitis.
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Am J Phys Med Rehabil · Jul 2006
Assessment of long-term physical function in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) patients: comparison of the Charlson Comorbidity Index and the Functional Comorbidity Index.
It is often important to adjust for the effect of comorbid diseases on patient outcomes. This study compares the association between physical function in acute respiratory distress syndrome patients with scores on two comorbidity indices, the Charlson Comorbidity Index, designed to predict mortality, and the Functional Comorbidity Index (FCI), which was designed to predict physical function. ⋯ The FCI is a better method of measuring comorbidity with physical function as the outcome. This study illustrates the importance of choosing the most appropriate comorbidity index for the outcome of interest.