The effect of foam rollers of varying densities on range of motion recovery

ObjectiveThis study aimed to compare the effect of different density foam rollers on range of motion recovery.MethodTen active men completed two, 3-day trials in random order. During the experimental trials, all participants performed 2 min of foam rolling (FR) using a medium-density (medium trial) or hard-density (hard trial) foam roller on the right posterior thigh after completing the 90-min Loughborough Intermittent Shuttle Test (LIST). The hip joint range of motion (ROM), muscle hardness, and muscle soreness were assessed before and after the LIST and at 0 min, 20 min, 60 min, 24 h, and 48 h after FR intervention. Serum creatine kinase (CK) concentrations were assessed before the LIST and at 60 min, 24 h, and 48 h after FR intervention. The contralateral leg in each trial was used as a control.ResultsThe ROM at 0 min, 20 min, 60 min, 24 h, and 48 h after FR intervention were higher in the right leg (the massage leg) than in the left leg (the contralateral leg) (p < 0.05). In the right leg, the ROM at 0 min after FR intervention was higher than after the LIST (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences between the medium and hard trials for ROM. Muscle hardness, muscle soreness, and serum CK concentration were not affected by FR.ConclusionFR has a positive effect on ROM recovery. Moreover, the two roller densities provided similar ROM recovery.     

Is self-massage an effective joint range-of-motion strategy? A pilot study

Increases in joint range of motion may be beneficial in both improving performance and reducing the risk of injury. The purpose of this study was to investigate short-term changes in passive hip flexion (HF) and extension (HE) after foam rolling (FR) and roller massage (RM) durations of 60 and 120s. Ten recreationally active men (27.6 ± 2.4 years old; 164.8 ± 6.6 cm; 62.2 ± 8.0 kg; 24.2 ± 2.1 m²/kg) were recruited for this study. Subjects performed foam rolling (FR) and roller massage (RM) on the hamstrings for 60 (FR60 and RM60) and 120 (FR120 and RM120) seconds. Significant differences between FR120 and RM60 were observed in both HF (p < 0.001) and HE (p < 0.001) suggesting an intervention (roller style) effect. Furthermore, significant differences (p < 0.001) between RM60 and RM120 suggest a dosage based response. Thus, the findings indicate that different roller type or rolling volume may affect range-of-motion.     

Pilates method on pulmonary function and range of motion after coronary artery bypass grafting: A clinical trial

IntroductionCoronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) can compromise pulmonary function and range of motion (ROM) of the shoulder and knee joints due to median sternotomy and saphenectomy, the Pilates method being a strategy for reducing loss.ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of applying the Pilates method on pulmonary function and ROM in patients undergoing CABG.Methodology: This is a clinical trial. Patients were evaluated preoperatively at discharge from the hospital for shoulder flexion and abduction and knee flexion-extension. In addition, vital capacity(VC), maximum inspiratory pressure(MIP), expiratory pressure(MEP) and peak expiratory flow(PEF) were evaluated. Upon discharge from the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), they were divided into a control group(CG) that received conventional assistance and Pilates(PG) was increased with Pilates method techniques.Results40 patients were analyzed, 25 were men(61%), with a mean age of 66 ± 7 years. At the end, the left shoulder abduction in the CG was 105±9vs115 ± 8 in the PG(p = 0.03), the right shoulder abduction in the CG 104 ± 11vs116 ± 10 in the PG(p < 0.001) and right knee flexion in the CG 78 ± 13vs92 ± 9 in the PG(0.002). In relation to MIP, the CG had a loss of 32 ± 8 while the PG 18 ± 10cmH2O(p < 0.001), the worsening MEP was 31 ± 9(CG)vs29 ± 11cmH2O(PG)(p = 0.53), the VC in the CG reduced 8±9vs6±8 in the PG(p = 0.23) and the PEF reduced 107 ± 5 in the GCvs83 ± 88 in the PG(p = 0.09).ConclusionIt is concluded that the Pilates method decreased the loss of ROM and maximum inspiratory pressure in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting.     

Comparison between neurodynamic therapy and foam rolling in cool-down sessions for delayed onset muscle soreness in healthy individuals

BackgroundDelayed onset of muscle soreness (DOMS) is a common finding in trained and untrained individuals post high intensity exercises which can lead to injuries. Foam rolling (FR) and neurodynamic therapy (NDT) are types of active cool-down which provides effective for treatment of DOMS. But their role in reduction of intensity of the same in cool down is not established.Study designCrossover study.MethodologyTotal 60 healthy individuals participated in the study. Pre intervention readings were taken of strength and tightness by Range of motion. Subjects performed both the types of cool-down separated by 4 weeks interval with random allocation. Post intervention readings of hamstring and quadriceps tightness, grade of tenderness and stand to sit VAS score was taken post 24 h and 48 h and strength post 48 h.ResultsAnalysis was done for using repeated measures ANOVA and Friedman's test. The difference of values for Straight Leg Raise and Prone knee Flexion between NDT and FR post 24 h were statistically significant (p < 0.05) while that of NDT post 24 h being similar to FR post 48 h (p > 0.05). There was a significant difference between strength, tenderness and VAS in NDT and FR (p < 0.05). With the mean of post 24 h as well as post 48 h being less in the FR intervention.ConclusionFoam rolling is a better option than Neurodynamic therapy for reduction of intensity of DOMS.     

Lipid profile and lipid oxidative modification parameters in the first trimester of high- risk pregnancies - possibilities for preeclampsia prediction

ObjectivesThe goal of this study was to investigate metabolic changes in lipids and oxidative stress parameters in the first trimester of pregnancy with the more specific aim of estimating the significance and strength of researched parameters in the prediction of preeclampsia.Design and Methods.The study included 87 high-risk pregnant (HRG) female subjects, 14 with developed preeclampsia (PEC) and 43 healthy pregnant female subjects matched for gestational age (CG). Thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) concentration, lipid hydroperoxides (LOOH), pro-oxidant antioxidant balance (PAB) and total oxidative status (TOS) were measured as oxidative stress markers, while total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was measured as an antioxidative defense parameter. The Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP) was calculated as the base 10 logarithm of the ratio of the plasma concentration of triglycerides (TG) to the plasma concentration of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), with each concentration expressed in mmol/L. Results: The results have shown that lipid indices, especially AIP, were significantly higher in the first trimester of HRG (p < 0.001) and PEC (p < 0.001). Oxidative stress parameters were significantlly higher, while TAC was significantly lower in HRG vs. CG [0.7 ± 0.15 vs 1.1 ± 0.16; (p < 0.001)] and in PEC [0.6 ± 0.12 vs 1.1 ± 0.16; (p < 0.001)] vs. CG. Also, in the HRG, results have shown an independent association of AIP with the preeclampsia development (p < 0.05), while placental growth factor did not show the expected level of significance (p = 0.648). Analysis of the Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) curves indicated that certain parameters included in the research model have very good diagnostic accuracy for preeclampsia (AUC = 0.856).ConclusionsAIP is associated with high-risk pregnancies. Furthermore, our results firmly underscored AIP as a potential marker for preeclampsia prediction.     

The effect of Therapeutic Touch on Back Pain in Adults on a Neurological Unit: An Experimental Pilot Study

BackgroundChronic back pain affects many aspects of everyday life and is a common reason for medical visits, leading to high direct and indirect health care costs. Innovative and cost-effective nonpharmacologic pain management methods should be promoted to ensure adequate treatment.AimsThe aim of this pilot study was to investigate the pain-relieving effect of Therapeutic Touch in adult neurologic patients with back pain.DesignA pretest–post-test randomized controlled trial.SettingsA university hospital in Austria.Participants/SubjectsPatients with back pain diagnosis (N = 29) on hospital admission.MethodsA pilot study was conducted for 3 months. The control group (n = 14) received the pharmacologic pain management recommended by the World Health Organization; patients in the intervention group (n = 15) received additionally four Therapeutic Touch treatments on 4 consecutive days. The Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale and the Numeric Pain Rating Scale were used as outcome measures to evaluate activity domains affected by back pain and pain intensity.ResultsPain improvement was found in the intervention group according to the mean score of the Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale (day 1: 72.53, standard deviation [SD] ± 14.10; day 4: 39.47, SD ± 8.77; p < .001). The Numerical Pain Rating Scale score averaged 4.33 points (SD ± 2.09) on the first day and 2.47 points (SD ± 1.12) on the fourth day. The long-term effect of Therapeutic Touch was significant and indicated a major effect (Pillai's trace = .641, F_(3.12) = 7.1, p = .005, η_p² = .641).ConclusionsTherapeutic Touch seems to be a noninvasive nursing intervention for back pain management to provide more professional patient care.     

EMG activity of the serratus anterior and trapezius muscles during elevation and PUSH UP exercises

BackgroundElevation and push up (Pu) exercises are considered to be beneficial for the rehabilitation of shoulder complex pathology. Despite their clinical utility, there is a lack of evidence comparing scapulothoracic muscles recruitment during these exercises.ObjectiveTo evaluate the EMG activity of upper trapezius (UT), Lower Trapezius (LT), Upper Serratus anterior (USa) and Lower Serratus anterior (LSa) muscles during a variety of elevation and Pu exercises.MethodsThirteen healthy participants (non, athlete, male, mean ± standard deviation; age: 21.1 ± 1.8 years; height: 1.80 m ± 0.04; weight: 79 ± 12 kg) were assessed. EMG data was collected during Scaption, wall slide and elevation with external rotation (EleEr) with and without load. Pu classic, Pu plus (PuP) on stable/unstable surfaces and Pu with shoulder internal rotation were also assessed.ResultsUT had a significant higher activity during ‘Scaption load’ (p < .05) and LT in ‘EleEr load’ and ‘Scaption load’ (p < .05). USa and LSa had a significant higher activity on ‘PuP unstable surface’ and ‘PuP internal rotation’ compared to elevation exercises (p < .05). Scaption had greater activity ratio compared to the other exercises on UT/LT (p < .05). Pu variations had lower results in UT/USa and UT/LSa ratios compared to shoulder elevation exercises (p < .05).ConclusionsElevation exercises produce significant effects on upper and lower trapezius activation while Pu exercises on Sa muscles. Wall slide exercise notes the lowest activation in all muscles. A descending order of muscle activity during different variations of elevation and Pu exercises is provided in order to guide exercise selection in everyday clinical practice.     

Acute effects of myofascial reorganization on trapezius muscle oxygenation in individuals with nonspecific neck pain

Background and purposeNonspecific neck pain (NNP) is a common idiopathic disorder in the general population that affects the trapezius muscle (TM) and blood supply, thereby compromising the fascial system. Myofascial reorganization (MR) is a physical therapy technique that can influence the dynamics of local fluids reducing excessive muscle tension and capillary constriction, and increasing local blood flow. This study aimed to investigate whether MR improves peripheral muscle oxygenation.MethodsThis was a quasi-experimental study with an intentional non-probability sample. Fifty participants (women: 36, men: 14) with and without NNP were assigned to either the experimental group (EG: n = 25, with NNP, subjected to MR) or the control group (CG: without NNP, no MR intervention). TM oxygenation was measured using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) before and after a single intervention. All participants were evaluated and reassessed after 10 min.ResultsThe results revealed that immediately after 10 min of MR, the EG exhibited an increase in the oxyhemoglobin level of the medium fibers of the TM (0.72 ± 1.47 vs. −0.14 ± 1.33 mmol/dL, p = 0.01). In addition, functional disability (CG: 5.48 ± 5.58%/EG: 21.12 ± 7.73%) and neck pain were measured using the neck disability index. The pain pressure threshold (CG: 70.49 ± 32.29 kgf/EG: 51.08 ± 27.65 kgf) and pain intensity (CG: 0.76 ± 1.56/EG: 3.28 ± 2.35) were also measured.ConclusionThe findings indicate that application of MR for 10 min increases the tissue oxyhemoglobin level in the TM of the group with NNP compared to the CG without NNP.     

The effects of foam rolling on ankle dorsiflexion range of motion in healthy adults: A systematic literature review

BackgroundReduced ankle dorsiflexion is associated with lower limb injury and dysfunction, with static stretching mostly used to increase ankle range of motion. Foam rolling is an alternative intervention, shown to immediately increase ankle range of motion, while the long-term application has conflicting evidence.AimsTo assess the effects of single and multiple foam rolling interventions on ankle dorsiflexion range of motion in healthy adults and appraise the methodological quality of the included studies.DesignSystematic literature review.MethodsFive electronic databases were systematically searched to identify randomised controlled trials reporting the effects of foam rolling on ankle dorsiflexion. Data was extracted from studies that met the inclusion criteria and independently appraised by each reviewer using the PEDro scale.ResultsThirty-two articles were identified; six studies included foam rolling compared to other interventions on ankle dorsiflexion range of motion. Five of the six studies reported a significant increase (p < 0.05) in ankle dorsiflexion within groups compared to baseline measurements, after a single foam rolling intervention. One study found a significant within group increase in long-term effects after foam rolling on ankle dorsiflexion over seven weeks. The mean PEDro score for all studies was 6/10 indicating a high-quality level of evidence.ConclusionThere is strong evidence suggesting that foam rolling may be effective in increasing range of motion in a healthy adult population in the short term up to 30 min; however, definitive conclusions on long-term effects cannot be drawn due to a lack of evidence, with further research recommended.     

Foam rolling improvements in passive hip flexion last up to 60-minutes in ice hockey players

BackgroundIce hockey players often lack hip mobility which may be attributed to excessive time spent in a flexed position during competition and the intensive use of hip external rotators and extensors. Previous investigations demonstrate that foam rolling increases range-of-motion in healthy populations. It is unclear whether such benefits occur in athletes with chronic hip tightness. Further, athletes often perform pre-competition warm-up up to 60-min prior to a game, therefore we investigated the retention of the effects of foam rolling. The purpose of this study was to analyze the effects of foam rolling the anterior and posterior aspects of the thigh on passive hip flexion in ice hockey players, up to 60-min post-rolling.MethodsSixteen amateur ice hockey players (8 ♀, 22 ± 2 years, 25.1 ± 3.5 kg m⁻²) warmed up for 5-min then performed 2, 1-min bouts of foam rolling using a high density multi-rigid roller on the quadriceps and hamstrings, with 1-min break between sets. Passive hip flexion was measured before and immediately after rolling, 10-min, 30 and 60-min post-rolling using the Coach's Eye application during a passive straight leg raise.ResultsCompared to baseline, passive hip flexion was greater immediately after foam rolling (p < 0.01), 10 min (p = 0.05), 30 (p < 0.01) and 60-min post-rolling (p < 0.01).ConclusionsRegardless of measurement time point, significant increases in passive hip flexion occurred up to 60-min compared to baseline. Incorporation of foam rolling into pre-competition warm-ups may be beneficial when increases in hip mobility are warranted, up to 1-h before competition.     

Perceived control and quality of life among recipients of implantable cardioverter defibrillator

BackgroundPerceived control is strongly associated with health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among patients with chronic conditions, and it is possible to increase perceived control with appropriate intervention. Little is known about the relationship between perceived control and HRQOL in implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) recipients.ObjectivesTo determine the relationship of perceived control with quality of life in ICD recipients and to determine predictors of perceived control in this population.MethodsA total of 263 ICD recipients (63% male, age 61 ± 14 years) completed the Control Attitude Scale-Revised to measure perceived control and completed self-reported measures on potential correlates of perceived control (i.e., depressive symptoms, anxiety, social support, and ICD concerns). The EuroQol-5D was used to measure HRQOL. Regression analysis was used to determine predictors of perceived control and its relationship to HRQOL, controlling for covariates.ResultsLower perceived control (β = 0.30, p < .01), and higher levels of depression (β = −0.30, p < .01) and anxiety (β = −0.18, p < .05) predicted lower levels of HRQOL. Higher anxiety (β = −0.17, p < .05), higher depression (β = −0.23, p < .05), lower social support (β = 0.26, p < .01), and higher ICD-related concerns (β = −0.16, p < .05) independently predicted lower perceived control.ConclusionsInterventions targeting patients' ICD concerns and psychosocial factors before, and continuing after, ICD insertion are needed to improve ICD recipients' perceived control and, in turn, their HRQOL.     

Improvement of quality of life and postural balance of institutionalized elderly people undergoing to a treadmill walking training

IntroductionInstitutionalized older adults have fewer opportunities to participate in daily living activities and tasks in an independent manner, with greater deleterious effects on the physiological losses inherent to aging and with increased gait and balance impairment compared to community-dwelling older adults. The use of a treadmill for rehabilitation, with or without partial weight support, has been studied in different groups, but not on institutionalized older adults.ObjectivesTo assess the effects of a treadmill walking program on the postural balance and quality of life of institutionalized older adults.MethodsThirty-seven institutionalized older adults: intervention group (n = 23, 75.7 ± 7.8 years) and control group (n = 14, 78.9 ± 10.2 years). A total of 10 weeks of treadmill walking, twice a week (intervention group) vs. no training (control group). Postural balance was assessed by the Tinetti test, 6-min walk test (6MWT), and 10-m walk test and Quality of life with the WHOQOL-Bref questionnaire.ResultsSignificant improvement was observed in balance parameters (6MWT distance: p < 0.001; gait speed 6MWT: p < 0.001; gait speed 10MWT: p < 0.001; Tinetti scale: p = 0.001), and in the physical (p = 0.01), psychological (p = 0.002), self-assessed quality of life (p = 0.01) and overall quality of life domains (p = 0.002).ConclusionsTreadmill walking program had positive effects on the postural balance and quality of life of institutionalized older adults.     

Effects of a pedometer-based walking intervention on young adults’ sleep quality,stress and life satisfaction: Randomized controlled trial

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of daily walking exercise on sleep quality, perceived stress and life satisfaction. It aimed to investigate the interaction between daily walking exercise and sleep components (sleep quality, sleep latency, sleep duration, sleep disturbance, sleep medication use, and daytime functioning).MethodsA four-week randomized control trial (RCT) was conducted by assigning 54 research volunteers into two groups randomly. The participants in the intervention group (IG) were asked to carry out a daily aerobic walking exercise (DAWE), and participants in the control group (CG) were requested to maintain a sedentary life style. Sleep quality, perceived stress and life satisfaction were assessed at the baseline and at the end of the intervention. All participants were equipped with Omron HJ-112 pedometer to record their daily exercise and to fulfil a daily diary sheet.ResultsBy the end of the intervention, 26 out of 54 participants (M_age = 24.96; SD = 5.13) completed the task. There was no statistical significance between the two groups when comparing global sleep quality, stress and life satisfaction. The within group comparison showed positive effect of DAWE on subjective sleep quality (p = 0.05), less sleep medication use (p < 0.05), positive effect on daytime function (p < 0.01) and improved life satisfaction (p = 0.05) after four weeks of intervention.ConclusionFindings suggested that incorporating daily aerobic walking exercise might be beneficial to sleep health. Further studies are suggested to ascertain the pedometer-based daily walking exercise's long-term effects and to unfold the biological mechanisms leading to its sleep quality improvement effect.     

Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) versus stretching: A comparison in effectiveness on hip active range of motion,muscle torque and power in people with hamstring tightness

BackgroundInstrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is a new technique that has been known to be effective in reducing muscle tightness in athletics. However, little is known about its effect on the range of motion, muscle power, and torque compared to manual stretching among non-athletics. Thus, the study was aimed to compare the effectiveness between IASTM and manual stretching in improving hip flexion active range of motion (ROM), muscle torque and power on hamstring muscle complex (HMC) tightness in one session.MethodTwenty-three young male college students with unilateral hamstring tightness measured via straight leg raising (SLR) test (<65°) were randomly assigned to one of two groups. Twelve participants received the application of IASTM (group 1), and eleven received manual stretching (group 2). Hip flexion active ROM was measured via goniometer, the torque & power of the hamstring muscle were measured using Humac isokinetic dynamometer, before and after both interventions. (ISRCTN17693345).ResultsThere was no significant difference in the improvement of hip flexion active ROM (69.6 ± 6.6 vs 72.5 ± 7.9, p = .34), HMC torque (63.7 ± 14.5 vs 53.2 ± 16.3, p = .14), and HMC power (47.8 ± 11.8 vs 40.9 ± 16.3, p = .34) between group 1 and group 2 respectively. When a comparison was made within each group, significant improvements in hip active flexion ROM was found in both groups (p's < .001), and HMC power was significantly improved in group 1 (p = .04) but not in group 2.ConclusionThe current study findings demonstrate that IASTM was as effective as manual stretching in improving hip flexion active ROM, muscle torque and power among non-athletic people with HMC tightness.     

Effects of myofascial release of the ankle plantar flexors on static postural balance of young men: A randomized clinical trial

BackgroundMyofascial release (MR) has been widely used in sports and clinical environment. There are studies that have already evaluated the effect of MR on postural control, however, the data found are inconclusive.ObjectivesInvestigate the effect of MR on ankle plantar flexor muscles over static postural balance.MethodSixty-five young men were randomized allocated into one of three groups: 1) MR group (n = 25, Myofascial Release); 2) Sham (n = 25, fake intervention); or 3) Control group (n = 15). Both MR and Sham techniques were applied during 5 min in the ankle flexors of each leg. The bipodal static postural balance test was performed before and 2 min post each intervention on a force plate with eyes closed during the test. All subjects performed 3 sets of 30-s with 1 min of rest. Mean values to the center of pressure velocity (COPvel) was used for analysis.ResultsThe bipodal balance test showed that there was no significant difference between groups (p > 0.05), but there was a significant time effect (p < 0.05). A significant decrease (p < 0.05) in post-test COPvel (cm.s⁻¹) values (sham 4.9 ± 1.2; MR 4.5 ± 0.6; CON 4.22 ± 0.8) was found when compared to values of pre-test (sham 5.3 ± 1.0; MR 5.0 ± 0.8; CON 4.94 ± 1.3) for all groups.ConclusionsThe results demonstrated that MR performed on ankle flexors did not affect static postural balance in young man. This study is a clinical trial (Register Number: RBR-48k5jm).     

Detraining period of the PILATES method on functional capacity of elderly women with type 2 diabetes: A randomized clinical trial

IntroductionThe aim of this study was to verify the effects of a 4-week detraining period on the functional capacity of elderly women with type-2 diabetes (T2D) after 12 weeks of a PILATES training program.MethodsTwenty-two individuals with T2D were randomly allocated into two groups: CONTROL (n = 11; 67.5 ± 6.3 years; 154.7 ± 6.1 cm; 73.5 ± 6.1 kg; calorie intake: 1487.5 ± 360.6 kcal/day) and PILATES (n = 11; 65.5 ± 5.5 years; 155.0 ± 4.5 cm; 66.2 ± 5.4 kg; calorie intake: 1289.3 ± 385.0 kcal/day). The PILATES group participated at a 12-week PILATES program at moderate intensity, 3x/week with each session lasting 60-min. The functional capacity was evaluated in the baseline (PRE), after 12-weeks (POST) and 4-week detraining period (4W_DT). The general index of functional capacity (GI_FC) was calculated for all participants.ResultsIn the PILATES group there was a reduction in performance (increased test time) for the GI_FC after 4W_DT in relation to POST (p < 0.05), however, GI_FC showing maintenance of performance gain in relation to the PRE (p > 0.05) (PRE: 36.0 ± 5.5 s vs. POST: 27.2 ± 4.0 s vs. 4W_DT: 29.0 ± 4.2 s). The CONTROL group had worse performance than the GI_FC POST (35.3 ± 4.6 s) and 4W_DT (35.4 ± 4.6 s) when compared to the PILATES group (F = 106.967; np2 = 0.842; p < 0.001).ConclusionA period of 4W_DT was not able to reduce the functional gains of elderly women with T2D after 12 weeks of PILATES training. These results have a practical application for training professionals, enabling better control and planning of training interruptions on the PILATES method for elderly women with T2D.     

Effect of Guided Imagery Meditation During Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy on Reducing Anxiety: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BackgroundUp to 90% of patients still experience pain after abdominal surgery, which also affects their physical recovery and psychological anxiety.AimTo evaluate the effects of guided imagery meditation on ameliorating anxiety, improving the quality of sleep, and relieving postoperative pain in patients after laparoscopic cholecystectomy surgery.MethodIn the general surgical ward of a teaching hospital, patients were randomly assigned to usual care (n = 34) and guided imagery meditation intervention (n = 34) groups, using the method. The measuring outcomes included their anxiety score, quality of sleep, and pain control.ResultsIn terms of the anxiety difference, the experimental group scored 0.42 (standard deviation [SD] = 0.97), while the control group scored 4.79 (SD = 7.56), which indicates a statistically significant difference (F = 8.04, p = .01, partial eta² = 0.11). In terms of quality of sleep, the mean score of the experimental group was 2.67 (SD = 1.96), while the control group scored 7.55 (SD = 3.81), which indicates a significant difference (F = 39.99, p = .001, partial eta² = 0.39). The mean of the degree of postoperative pain was 2.11 points (SD = 1.39), and the score of the control group was 4.00 points (SD = 1.62), which indicates a significant difference (p = .001).ConclusionsGuided imagery meditation is a simple, non-invasive, non-pharmacologic intervention measure. It can reduce anxiety and postoperative pain, and improve the quality of sleep. Thus, it should be promoted in clinical practice.     

Feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a hypopressive exercise program on postmenopausal cancer survivors: A pilot study

BackgroundCancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a common symptom during and after cancer treatment that negatively affects the patient's quality of life. Exercise is one of the most effective non-pharmacological treatments for CRF. Multimodal exercise therapy programs that include hypopressive exercises, relaxation and myofascial release may be beneficial for CRF. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of a multimodal program on CRF and lower limb functional strength in postmenopausal women diagnosed with cancer.Methods7 postmenopausal women (age = 55.28 years; BMI = 26.05 kg/m2) who had a cancer diagnosis participated in a supervised and progressive 55-min class once per week for 12-weeks. CRF was measured using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Cancer Related Fatigue 12 and lower limb strength was assessed with the sit and stand test.ResultsNo adverse events were reported during the training period and all participants completed the exercise protocol. There was a significant increase (p = 0.01) in lower limb functional strength (pre: 19.60 (SD = 2.19) vs post: 24.60(SD = 2.19)) with an effect size of d = 2.28 and a decrease in CRF (p = 0.245) (pre: 29.36 ± 24.42; post: 17.85 ± 14.23) with a trivial effect size (d < 0.5).ConclusionsThese preliminary findings indicate that a supervised once per week multimodal program that includes hypopressive exercises for postmenopausal cancer survivors increased lower limb functional strength without exacerbating their CRF. These findings support further randomized trials of hypopressive training programs on patients with cancer.     

Is it feasible “scoop and run while playing” resuscitation on a rescue water craft? A randomized simulation study with lifeguards

ObjectiveResponse time is a predictive factor for survival of drowning victims and lifesaving. Rescue Water Craft (RWC) are lifeboats very common in lifeguards operations. The aim of this study was to analyze the feasibility of providing effective mouth-to-mouth ventilations and/or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on the RWC while sailing at different speeds.MethodA quasi-experimental cross-over block design was used to test during one minute efforts the effectiveness of Mouth to Mouth ventilation (MM-only) and CRP, at the beach and sailing at two diferents speeds 5 knots(kn) and 10 kn with calm sea. Quality CPR reference were 2015 ERC guidelines.ResultsThe data obtained from 13 lifeguards were included, that means that 78 resuscitation test were completed. The MM-only performance skills reached 69.7% ± 40.4 for 5 kn and 60.0% ± 41.8 for 10 kn (p = .59). For full CPR, performance was 74.4% ± 24.2 and 68.5% ± 23.9 respectively. Quality of MM and CPR decreased, not significantly, while sailing at 5 kn and 10 kn [(Q-MM; 5 kn: 59.9% ± 37.8 vs. 10 kn: 43.2% ± 41.4, p = .42)(Q-CPR; 5 kn: 64.8% ± 21.2 and 10 kn: 60.6% ± 21.0, p = .44)]. MM-only and CC variables were significantly worse on RJS when compared with resuscitation at the beach (p < .05). A trend for better results by lifeguards previously training on RJS was observed.ConclusionsResuscitation techniques on board of a RWC are feasible and therefore they could be an option for lifeguards when their training, sea conditions, distance and the victim's characteristics allow it. CPR maneuvers may be highly effective at 10 kn, both for MM-only and CPR, however, the quality of the ventilations dramatically worsen with increasing speed.