NeuroRehabilitation
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NeuroRehabilitation · Jan 2009
Multicenter Study Comparative StudyA pilot study of a comparison between a patient scored numeric rating scale and clinician scored measures of spasticity in multiple sclerosis.
To assess the validity and reliability of a Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) for the measurement of spasticity in multiple sclerosis. ⋯ The spasticity NRS has been shown to be a valid and reliable tool in the assessment of spasticity with a moderate to high level of correlation with other clinician rated instruments used to assess spasticity.
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NeuroRehabilitation · Jan 2009
Randomized Controlled TrialNeuromuscular electrical stimulation of the gluteus medius improves the gait of children with cerebral palsy.
Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) of the gluteus medius muscles using a surface electrode during functional walking training has never been reported as a management option to improve gait in spastic diplegic children. ⋯ The NMES management programs used in this study improved the gait of spastic diplegic CP children.
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NeuroRehabilitation · Jan 2009
Case ReportsBody weight supported treadmill training at very low treatment frequency for a young adult with incomplete cervical spinal cord injury.
Body weight supported treadmill training (BWSTT) using high treatment frequency has been shown to improve gait after spinal cord injury (SCI). This case report describes the use of BWSTT at a very low treatment frequency. ⋯ Very low frequency BWSTT combined with conventional treatment improved quality and endurance of walking for a person with incomplete cervical SCI. Further work is needed to evaluate the long-term outcome of very low frequency BWSTT and the interaction of BWSTT with other interventions.
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NeuroRehabilitation · Jan 2008
ReviewDecision-making capacity and competency in the elderly: a clinical and neuropsychological perspective.
With our ageing population, the number of older adults with cognitive impairment has also increased. There is both an acute and growing need for evidence-based assessments to identify their decision making capacity and competence. In the present article we (1) present definitions of decision-making capacity and competence, (2) review cognitive functions that are central to decision-making capacity as well as the methods and procedures commonly used to assess these domains, and (3) address the communication of assessment findings to patients and their loved ones. The importance of assessing decision-making capacity in the context of specific functions and of respecting the values and interests of older adults are emphasized.
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NeuroRehabilitation · Jan 2008
ReviewNon-pharmacological and pharmacological treatment of the cognitive and behavioral symptoms of Alzheimer disease.
This paper discusses the various pharmacological and behavioral treatments for the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral symptoms of Alzheimer disease (AD). The medications that are currently FDA-approved for the treatment of the cognitive/functional deficits of AD will first be discussed. ⋯ Principles of behavioral management, tips for communication, and recommendations for caregivers are discussed. Lastly, risk and protective factors and their relevance to delaying the expression of dementia are also examined.