Disability and rehabilitation
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To validate a single item self-report of satisfaction with participation in two groups with differing patterns of symptoms and disease progress, multiple sclerosis (MS) and spinal cord injury (SCI). ⋯ More research is needed to better understand the multiple dimensions that comprise participation and to develop robust and sensitive measurement tools. A global rating of satisfaction with participation using one item has a number of potentially useful applications including description of case mix in clinical trials.
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Hand strength is a key component in human hand function, especially to those with strength-required jobs. To evaluate post-injury hand strength, this study was conducted to assess the predictability of hand injury severity scoring (HISS) system to hand strength after a period of recovery. ⋯ HISS is a descriptive severity scoring system to hand injury and also a useful instrument to predict functional outcome. This study revealed the HISS system may predict post-injury hand strength after recovery.
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To explore the experience of post-stroke fatigue in community-dwelling stroke survivors with and without post-stroke mood disturbance within one year of stroke. ⋯ The results of this study suggest that in spite of reasonable objective physical recovery post-stroke, fatigue in community-dwelling stroke survivors may be disabling. The use of qualitative methodology was sensitive in identifying the factors that play a role in the experience of fatigue. The essential role of health professionals in this context is to provide support and education regarding fatigue and to promote participation after stroke in therapy programs. Routine practice for stroke services should include fatigue advice prior to discharge.
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The predictive utility of an integrated model of disability is tested. The integrated model incorporates an impairment based model (International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF)) and the behavioural models. ⋯ An integrated model which combines psychological constructs and impairment is required for an adequate understanding of ALs. By contrast, behavioural models, but not degree of impairment, are necessary to explain activity levels.
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The aim of this cohort study was to identify early predictive factors for a poor outcome of disability and pain 12- and 36-months after an intervention in patients with recurrent low-back pain, currently at work. ⋯ Our results suggest that ratings of poor self-efficacy for physical activity, greater disability, and pain-ratings, are the most consistent independent predictors of long-term poor outcome of disability and pain. This indicates the importance of screening for such factors to optimize the management of low-back pain. However, larger studies in similar patient populations are needed to confirm these results.