Partial versus full range of back extension endurance testing using the Swiss ball in discogenic low back pain patients: A comparative study

Peak torque substantially varies between patients with non-specific low back pain; belong to directional preference classification, and healthy individuals-clinical biokinesiologic perspectives

[Purpose] To compare flexion and extension peak torque of patients with nonspecific-chronic low back pain who were classified as directional preference subgroups, and their matched healthy controls. [Participants and Methods] Fifty male volunteers (25 with non-specific chronic low back pain and 25 healthy-matched controls) consented to participate. The investigator collected all demographic data, hips, knees and spinal mobility in addition to the peak torque using the Biodex isokinetic dynamometer. The measurement protocol consisted of 2 sets of 10 consecutive flexion-extension efforts performed at 120°/sec and 60°/sec angular velocity. A two minutes rest period was given between sets. The preset 50° range of motion included 20°(+20°) of trunk extension and 30°(-30°) of trunk flexion. [Results] A 2 × 2 mixed-design ANOVA showed a significant group X isokinetic velocity interaction. The main effect of isokinetic velocity was also significant. In reference to the peak torque of the flexors of the trunk, the main effect of group was significant. [Conclusion] The extension peak torque significantly depends on the velocity of the isokinetic dynamometer; however the flexion peak torque significantly depends on the participants' group attribution.

Clinical measurements of spinal mobility, static balance, and functional performance in healthy participants: a simple biokinesiological analysis of performance

[Purpose] To explore the relationship between functional outcome measurements of spinal mobility, static balance and functional performance. [Participants and Methods] Fifty two healthy participants aged between 18–36 years participated. Spinal mobility included forward bending and side bending. Balance was tested via maintaining single-leg stance position with eyes open and with eyes closed. Functional testing included five times squat to stand, walking on heels and walking on tiptoes. [Results] Two-way mixed intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) consistency model average measure (ICC_3,K) for single-leg standing with the eyes are open and closed was excellent (0.85) and very good (0.79) respectively. Mean forward spinal mobility score of the recreationally active group (M= 3.3 ± 5.7) was significantly lower (M= 9.5 ± 10.5) than inactive group. Regarding five times squat to stand, the mean score of the recreationally active group (10.4 ± 4.3) was not significantly different from the mean of the recreationally inactive group (9.5 ± 2.6). [Conclusion] Walking on heels significantly took more time and perceived with more exertion than tiptoes walking. Also, standing on one leg was harder when eyes are closed. Recreationally active had shown significant forward mobility but no difference between sidebending mobility. The relationships between different outcome measures need to be furtherly explored.

Total assessment-reassessment & evaluation using bioKinesiologic (TAREK) approach: case presentation for theoretical formulation

[Purpose] To introduce a new systematic physical therapy evaluation aiming to facilitate the process of examining complicated musculoskeletal cases. [Subject and Methods] The patient was a 20 years old male college student who had major motor vehicle accident one year ago. The patient was poorly responding to physical therapy and he felt that his case was worsening. The complexity of the case dictated a new evaluation with a different approach to resolve the barriers hindering the patient from showing functional improvements. [Results] The new evaluation approach explained many undetermined and stubborn symptoms experienced by the patient. The expert confirmed that the traditional evaluations methods utilized were insufficient to address patient’s complaints. [Conclusion] Total Assessment-Reassessment & Evaluation using bioKinesiologic (TAREK) approach is comprehensive evaluation strategy using systematic pathway that guides clinicians to pinpoint the contribution of pathoanatomical structures in producing pathomechanical mobility and poor functional outcomes.

Biodex balance training versus conventional balance training for children with spastic diplegia

Objective

The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of balance training using the Biodex balance system and a conventional balance training programme on balance score and on gross motor skills of children with spastic diplegia.

Methods

A randomized controlled study was conducted on 48 spastic diplegic children with cerebral palsy (26 boys and 22 girls) in the age range of 5-8 years. The children were randomly allocated to two equal groups. The investigators performed balance and gross motor function assessments for every child using the paediatric Berg balance scale and the gross motor function measure -88 scale (dimensions D and E) before and after the treatment programme. Passive repositioning sense was measured by a Biodex III isokinetic dynamometer. The study group received Biodex balance training and traditional physical therapy programme training, whereas the control group received conventional balance training in addition to the traditional physical therapy programme training, 3 times per week for 12 weeks.

Results

Significant improvement was observed in all outcome measures of the two groups, comparing their pre- and post-treatment mean values. Furthermore, the results revealed a significant (P < 0.05) improvement in mean post-treatment values for the Biodex balance training group.

Conclusion

Balance training using the Biodex balance system is superior to conventional balance training for improving the balance abilities and gross motor functions of children with cerebral palsy and spastic diplegia.