Disability and rehabilitation
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Randomized Controlled Trial
The effect of supervised Tai Chi intervention compared to a physiotherapy program on fall-related clinical outcomes: a randomized clinical trial.
To assess some fall-related clinical variables (balance, gait, fear of falling, functional autonomy, self-actualization and self-efficacy) that might explain the fact that supervised Tai Chi has a better impact on preventing falls compared to a conventional physiotherapy program. ⋯ The impact of supervised Tai Chi on fall prevention can not be explained by a differential effect on balance, gait and fear of falling. It appeared to be related to an increase of general self-efficacy, a phenomenon which is not seen in the conventional physiotherapy program.
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Many Eastern and Southern African (ESA) states are obliged to review and amend their legal frameworks with regards to disability since signing and ratifying the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). The HIV epidemic is one of the main health concerns in the region and is becoming increasingly associated with causing disabilities. In addition, people with disabilities are particularly at risk of exposure to HIV. Despite this, HIV programming has not yet included the interrelationship of disability and HIV. The principles within the CRPD may create much-needed international pressure and so provide a platform for the integration and inclusion of disability into HIV policies and programs. ⋯ The paper identifies the gaps and makes recommendations for implementing steps toward the integration of disability into HIV-related laws, policies and programs.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Efficacy of constraint-induced movement therapy and electrical stimulation on hand function of children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy: a controlled clinical trial.
The purpose of this study is to compare the efficacy of constraint therapy, constraint therapy plus electrical stimulation, and occupational therapy in the treatment of hand dysfunction. ⋯ Constraint therapy plus electrical stimulation is likely to be best in improving hand performance in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy.
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To identify questionnaires and scales that measure functioning and disability in low-back pain (LBP) and determine whether the measurements are comparable with the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICFDH). ⋯ This study may help researchers and clinicians to choose the most appropriate questionnaires for a specific purpose as well as help compare studies that have used different questionnaires for low back pain assessment and provide valuable information on the content quality of these questionnaires for them. Furthermore, based on our results, more comprehensive and balanced instruments may be developed for more accurate assessment of functioning in LBP and perhaps other clinical conditions.
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To evaluate the measurement properties of the StepWatch(™) Activity Monitor (SAM) and ActivPAL in COPD. ⋯ The SAM can be used to detect steps in people who walk very slowly including those who use a rollator. Both devices were sensitive to small changes.