Physical Rehabilitation and Recreational Health Technologies

Effectiveness of Cold Compression Therapy versus Multi-Waved Locked System Laser on Breast Cancer-Related Lymphoedema: Randomized Controlled Trial

Mohamed H. ElGendy — 2025-04-30

Purpose. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Cold Compression Therapy and Multi-Waved Locked System Laser on lymphatic flow, volumetric measurements, and quality of life in breast cancer-related lymphoedema patients. Breast cancer-related lymphoedema is a long-term health problem that often causes pain and disability and interferes with daily activities. It may occur after treatment for breast cancer by surgery and radiation therapy. If left untreated, it can have long-term medical and psychological consequences for patients.

Material & Methods. Sixty-six females with breast cancer-related lymphoedema, with a mean age of 37.4 ± 5.39 years, participated in the study. Subjects were randomly divided into three equal groups using simple randomization via the closed-envelope technique. Group A, consisting of twenty-two female patients, received class 4 multi-wave locked system laser and conventional treatment. Group B, also composed of twenty-two female patients, received cold compression therapy and conventional treatment. Group C, the control group, received conventional treatment only. The three groups were assessed using lymphoscintigraphy for lymphatic flow, measuring tape for limb volume, and the Lymphoedema Life Impact Scale (LLIS) for health-related quality of life assessment. Assessments were conducted before and after treatment.

Results. The results indicated that Group B showed statistically significant improvement over Group A in lymphoscintigraphy (p<0.001), limb volume (p<0.001), and LLIS questionnaire (p<0.001). Group B also showed statistically significant improvement over Group C in lymphoscintigraphy (p<0.001), limb volume (p<0.001), and LLIS questionnaire (p<0.001). However, there was no statistically significant difference between Group A and Group C.

Conclusions. Cold compression therapy significantly improved limb volume and circumference, lymphatic flow, and health-related quality of life in patients with unilateral breast cancer-related lymphoedema compared to the multi-wave locked system laser and conventional treatment.

The Adherence to High-Intensity Interval Training Among Obese Women with Early-Stage Knee Osteoarthritis: A Retrospective Cohort Study in India

Saravanan M — 2025-04-30

Purpose. This study aimed to analyze adherence to High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) among patients with early-stage knee osteoarthritis (OAK) and identify factors influencing adherence.

Material & Methods. A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from 569 patients diagnosed with early-stage OAK across four private orthopedic clinics in India. Eligibility criteria included a BMI ≥30 and early-stage OAK. Adherence was defined as attending ≥80% of prescribed sessions. Data on demographics, clinical characteristics, and adherence were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression.

Results. Out of 569 eligible patients, 522 were included in the final analysis. The average age was 53.8 years, with a mean BMI of 31.9 kg/m². Adherence to the HIIT program was weak, with only 34% of participants meeting the high adherence threshold. Higher pain severity, BMI, and WOMAC scores were significantly associated with lower adherence, while higher educational levels improved adherence.

Conclusions. The study found lower adherence to HIIT among patients with early-stage OAK compared to Western populations. Factors such as pain severity, BMI, and functional limitations were significant barriers to adherence. Future interventions should focus on addressing these barriers to improve adherence rates.

Integral evaluation of the formation of adaptive capacity of the children's body under the condition of systematic specific physical load

Hanna Latina — 2025-04-30

Purpose. The article considers the possibility of using quantitative and qualitative indicators, which characterize in general the adaptive capacity of the children’s body under the condition of systematic specific physical load.

Material & Methods. The methodology consisted in the formation of so-called matrices of pairwise comparison of indicators, arranged in separate blocks. The comparison was carried out in the form of an estimated ratio of importance in pairs of indicators.

Results. Our studies coincide with the results of M. Antomonov and confirm the fact that the characteristics of the integral assessment of adaptive capacity of the body reflect a few indicators that are grouped in separate blocks and include all factors that affect adaptation processes and have a simple and adequate form of analysis

Conclusions: According to the totality and significance of the experts’ answers, it has been established that the block of factors “lifestyle” has the greatest influence on adaptive capacity of the children’s body under the condition of systematic specific physical load. The following blocks share the second place: “athlete efficiency” and “functional state of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems”. The third and fourth positions in terms of weight coefficients were occupied by the following blocks of indicators: “neurodynamic properties of a person” and “psycho-emotional state”.

Rapid diagnosis of stress-related states to guide health-enhancing physical activity for university students

Olena Andrieieva — 2025-04-30

Purpose. The purpose of the study was to build a theoretical model of rapid diagnosis of stress-related states in college students and to develop a digital tool to guide health-enhancing physical activity for university students.

Material & Methods. The study involved the use of questionnaires designed to assess psychophysiological indicators (activity, mood, sleep, appetite, performance, and well-being) with the 5-point Likert scale; stress level with V. Y. Shcherbatykh method; anxiety using the Spielberg-Hanin Inventory; and the risk of PTSD using the Mississippi Scale. The data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis, namely GLZ models.

Results. The theoretical model of rapid diagnosis of stress-associated states in higher education students during the educational process was developed, which provides a reliable foundation for monitoring stress-related states and management of appropriate measures to prevent them using physical activity. The proposed model includes interconnected stages of data mining, construction of mathematical models that link the indicators of stress, anxiety, and risk of PTSD in students and other relevant variables, analysis of their parameters and quality assessment, as well as the development of a digital solution for personalized recommendations on physical activity interventions, implementation in the educational process, and feedback. Statistically significant (p<0.05) generalized regression models were constructed that establish relationships between students’ stress-related states and multidirectional stress-related factors (gender, psychophysiological indicators, physical condition, mental state, etc.). Using these models reduces the time needed to complete questionnaires by more than 8-fold. The developed models are the basis of the interactive analytical program StressCheck Pro, which is designed to obtain up-to-date information on the stress-related states in students, to collect and analyze data necessary to assess the current state of students, to monitor the effectiveness of implemented measures, and to develop individual recommendations. When used, the obtained scores of stress, anxiety, and PTSD risk do not require additional interpretation. This assesses of stress-related states more accessible and scalable in the educational process.

Conclusions. An approach to assessing students' stress, anxiety and risk of PTSD in the educational process was developed and its practical implementation was proposed using the interactive analytical program StressCheck Pro, which automates the processes of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data necessary for monitoring stress-related states among students as well as providing guidelines for health-enhancing physical activity.

Therapy and rehabilitation of women with diabetic adhesive capsulitis

Iryna Zharova — 2025-04-30

Purpose. The purpose of the work is to scientifically and methodologically substantiate and develop a program of therapy and rehabilitation for mature women with type 2 diabetes mellitus and adhesive capsulitis, in order to improve their functional state, activity and participation.

Material & Methods. The study of the effectiveness of the developed therapy and rehabilitation program (TtaR) was conducted based on the results of the observation of 97 women with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) complicated by adhesive capsulitis (AC), who was subject to a step-by-step examination at the scientific and advisory department of outpatient and preventive care for patients with endocrine pathology of the State Institution "Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism named after V. P. Komissarenko of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine", Kyiv. Observations were carried out using specific clinical (content analysis of medical records, review, clinical laboratory research), instrumental methods (bioimpedance diagnostics of body composition, goniometry, radiography) and sociological (visual analogue pain scale VAS, international questionnaire for assessing the quality of life MOS SF-36 (Medical Outcomes Study)) research methods.

Results. We developed and evaluated the effectiveness of a program of therapy and rehabilitation of women with diabetic adhesive capsulitis, implemented in three stages: preparatory (at a clinical institution and/or outpatient), main and final (outpatient and home training programs). To achieve a more pronounced rehabilitation effect, the development of a therapy and rehabilitation program was carried out according to the following algorithm for providing rehabilitation services: assessment of the initial morphofunctional state, activity and participation; determination of the principles and objectives of the program; development and implementation of the program; evaluation of effectiveness. The objectives of the developed program were: normalization of blood glucose levels, normalization of the functions of damaged limbs, reduction of pain syndrome, restoration of joint mobility, improvement of quality of life. The developed program is based on the following principles of providing rehabilitation services: application of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF); adherence to a multidisciplinary approach; client-centric (personalized) approach; formation of goals in the SMART format; integrated approach; staged interventions; systematicity and duration. The foundation of the developed program was a combination of elements of the most effective means and methods (integrated approach) used in patients with type 2 diabetes and adhesive capsulitis: therapeutic exercises, diet therapy and nutritional correction, hardware physiotherapy, patient education within the framework of diabetes, occupational therapy measures.

Conclusions. The proposed and implemented TtaR program for women with type 2 diabetes and adhesive capsulitis allowed to reduce pain syndrome, restore functional capabilities, and improve the quality of life.

Overtraining syndrome in bodybuilding and the difficulty of searching for informative biomarkers for disadaptation diagnostics

Vadym Koval — 2025-04-30

Purpose. To study the characteristic features of overtraining syndrome (OTS) in bodybuilding in athletes with different resistance levels and to identify informative blood biomarkers to diagnose disadaptation.

Material & Methods. 90 people aged 22±1.3 years, with experience in strength training of 3.2±0.5 years, were examined. 3 groups (30 people each) were created. Group A – bodybuilders who, according to the medical examination results, had no contraindications (HBM). Group B – bodybuilders with symptoms of functional exhaustion (BFE). Group C – healthy men engaged in power fitness (HMF). By analyzing biochemical blood markers (CPK, LDH, cortisol, and testosterone), the characteristics of adaptive and compensatory responses to test exertions were identified (R_a=0.64 and R_a=0.74). Control was carried out at the beginning of the study and after 14 days of high-intensity strength training (HIRT).

Results. The study showed that the baseline levels of the monitored biochemical blood parameters in HBM, BFE, and HMF participants were within the normal reference range. Despite the growth of the baseline level of CPK, LDH, and cortisol in the blood in bodybuilders of the HBM and BFE groups after two weeks of using HIRT, the values remained within the reference range. The determination of functional overreaching (FOR) in the HBM and HMF groups was made possible through the analysis of results showing a 50-53% increase in CPK and a 23-26% rise in cortisol levels in response to high-intensity loads (R_a=0.74). Based on the analysis of changes in LDH and cortisol levels in the blood in response to strength loads, it was possible to detect non-functional overreaching (NFOR) in BFE, HBM, and HMF groups. In individuals diagnosed with NFOR, even in response to loads under conditions of the creatine phosphokinase energy supply mechanism, there is a significant increase in LDH (30–47%) and cortisol (75–107%). In response to test loads, regardless of their intensity or type of anaerobic energy supply, there was a simultaneous increase in CPK (143-173%), LDH (66–92%), and a decrease in cortisol (46–54%) in BFI individuals suspected of having OTS.

Conclusions. The proposed mechanism for identifying FOR, NFOR, and OTS during bodybuilding training, based on evaluating the nature of changes in the body’s adaptive-compensatory responses to a stress stimulus, is a tool for monitoring disadaptation. The results indicate that, for diagnosing OTS in HBM, BFE, and HMF athletes, the baseline levels of CPK, LDH, cortisol, and testosterone in the blood are not informative biomarkers. Using test loads (R_a=0.64 and R_a=0.74) as stress stimuli for the HBM, BFE, and HMF groups allows for identifying short-term adaptation or compensatory response manifestations based on the acute response of blood biomarkers.

Effectiveness of heel cord stretching versus golf ball roll exercises among college students with flat foot: a pilot study

Logeshwari V — 2025-04-30

Purpose. A common musculoskeletal disease called flat foot or pes planus is defined by the collapse or flattening of the foot's medial longitudinal arch. This disorder may result in biomechanical changes that impact posture, walking, and general lower limb function. It is common in young adults including college students who may suffer from foot pain, exhaustion, and diminished physical performance as a result of misaligned feet. The aim of the study is to compare the effect of heel cord stretching versus golf ball roll exercise among college students with flat feet.

Material & Methods. Thirty-eight people with flat feet were randomly allocated into two groups, each with 19 participants using a computer-generated technique. Group-A received heel cord stretching, while group-B received the golf ball roll exercise. The foot posture index scale and navicular drop test were used to assess before and after the intervention. The significance of changes was evaluated using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and the Mann-Whitney U test.

Results. The study indicates that both groups exhibited significant improvements following treatment. Moreover, heel cord stretching demonstrated greater significance (p<0.001).

Conclusions. According to this study both interventions were effective in improving foot posture and arch height in students with flat feet, with heel cord stretching yielding marginally superior outcomes. No adverse effects were reported, indicating that both techniques are safe for inclusion in flat foot rehabilitation protocols.

Efficacy of Dry Needling and Intramuscular Dry Needling Stimulation on Quadratus Lumborum in Patients with Mechanical Low Back Pain

Gerald Edwin Raj — 2025-04-30

Low back pain (LBP) is characterized by pain or discomfort in the lower back, often accompanied by decreased in lateral flexion range of motion. The average lifetime incidence of LBP is as high as 84%, with approximately 23% of individuals experiencing chronic pain.

Purpose. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of Quadratus Lumborum Intramuscular Dry Needling Stimulation (IMDNS) and standard Dry Needling (DN) in managing pain, postural sway, and disability in patients with mechanical low back pain.

Material & Methods. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 51 participants aged 30 to 45 with mechanical low back pain and Quadratus Lumborum pain who met the study's inclusion criteria. Participants were randomly assigned in a 1:1:1 ratio to three groups and received three sessions per week for three weeks. Group A received Intramuscular Dry Needling Stimulation (IMDNS), Group B received Dry Needling (DN), and Group C underwent conventional physiotherapy with Interferential Therapy (IFT). Additionally, all three groups received Quadratus Lumborum stretching. Outcome measures included pain threshold (assessed with a pressure algometer), postural sway (measured using a sway meter), and functional disability (evaluated using the Oswestry Disability Index, ODI). Assessments were conducted at baseline (pre-intervention) and follow-up (post-intervention). Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. The data was analyzed using One-Way ANOVA and Tukey's Post Hoc test.

Results. The study found significant differences in postural sway, disability, and pain threshold among back pain patients. The mean value, standard deviations and p value for postural sway among Group A (2.59, 0.68 & 0.00), Group B (1.86, 1.04& 0.00) & Group C (1.39, 0.81 & 0.00). The mean value, standard deviations and p value for Disability among Group A (13.7, 3.99 & 0.00), Group B (12.94, 4.04 & 0.00) & Group C (9.65, 5.11 & 0.00). The mean value, standard deviations and p value for Pressure threshold among Group A (1.50, 0.422 & 0.00), Group B (1.14, 0.37 & 0.00) & Group C (0.89, 0.48 & 0.00). When comparing all groups for postural sway the calculated 'F’ & p’ value is 8.43 & 0.001. When comparing all groups for disability the calculated 'F’ & p’ value is 4.062 & 0.00. When comparing all groups for pressure threshold the calculated 'F’ & p’ value is 8.43 & 0.001. The calculated p value for all three groups is less than the common alpha level (0.005), hence there is significant difference between postural sway, disability and pressure threshold.

Conclusions. These findings indicate that IMDNS found to be more effective than DN and conventional physiotherapy in reducing postural sway, disability, and pain threshold in patients in patients with mechanical low back pain.

Effect of External Sensory Integration on Motor Functional Disorder In Children With Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (Adhd) - A Pilot Study

Chhavi Kumar Sharma — 2025-04-30

Purpose. A common neurodevelopmental disease in children, attention deficit hyperactivity disease (ADHD) is typified by recurrent patterns of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. In India, ADHD affects a significant percentage of school-aged children, with variations across different regions. This study investigates the effectiveness of sensory integration therapy combined with conventional physiotherapy compared to conventional physiotherapy alone in treating motor functional disorders in children with ADHD.

Material & Methods. 34 children with ADHD, ages 3 to 12, participated in this experimental pilot trial. They were randomized to two groups: the experimental group, which received both conventional physiotherapy and sensory integration treatment, and the control group, which received conventional physiotherapy. The interventions were administered over six months, with assessments conducted at baseline and post-intervention using Conner’s Teacher Rating Scale, Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM), and the Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire.

Results. The findings revealed that the experimental group showed a significantly greater reduction in ADHD symptoms and a more substantial improvement in motor function compared to the control group. Specifically, the experimental group demonstrated a greater decrease in Conner’s Teacher Rating Scale scores (p=0.002) and a significant improvement in GMFM scores (p=0.001). Additionally, the Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire scores indicated a more pronounced enhancement in motor coordination within the experimental group (p=0.01).

Conclusions. This study provides evidence supporting the effectiveness of sensory integration therapy, combined with conventional physiotherapy, in improving motor function and reducing ADHD symptoms in children. These findings suggest that integrating sensory-based interventions into treatment regimens could enhance therapeutic outcomes for children with ADHD in India.