Morpho-functional implications of myofascial stretching applied to muscle chains: A case study

Study on the impact of the therapeutic swimming on elderly women diagnosed with osteoporosis

Introduction The adult woman has a complex of endocrine metabolic changes that can influence and cause various disorders in the body regarding the decrease of functional and regulatory ca-pacities. The involuntary changes in a woman's aging highlight both the appearance and the functionality. In this sense, we intend to conduct a study on morphological changes, parameters that represent risk factors in the development of osteoporosis. Studies by Kanis (1) and Munshi (2) show that maintaining adequate bone mass as well as ensuring adequate muscle tone can prevent osteoporosis, and a pronounced incidence of the onset and development of chronic de-generative pathologies can promote fractures. Material and method. In connection with the elu-cidation of this aspect, we will use the Frax estimation method, which is based on the introduc-tion of values obtained from medical evaluations. Regarding the study, we propose to the sub-jects a therapeutic swimming program to avoid the occurrence of osteoporotic fractures. Results and discussions. Regarding the field of factors favoring the estimation of a fracture in the items regarding cortisone treatments, alcohol consumption, digestive problems, minor traumas, the investigated subjects answered with No 100%.In order to obtain objective results, the study will continue for a period of 1 year, the intermediate tests will be performed after 4 months from the beginning of the work program and at the same time the program will undergo changes, de-pending on the results obtained from the evaluations. Conclusions. The implementation of this water exercise program will lead to adaptive changes in the direction of limiting the unevolu-tionary processes of senescence. Keywords: elderly women; osteoporosis; estimate; physical activity, therapeutic swimming

Study on the postural rehabilitation devices used in the prevention of postural defects and the need to use a smart orthosis

Introduction. Postural defects are a real challenge for the contemporary world. Scoliosis, kyphosis and lordosis are diseases of the spine, with various evolutions and multiple changes of the other components of the thorax (shoulders, shoulder blades, ribs), as well as of the intrathoracic and even abdominal organs. Material and method. This paper presents a study on the need to use a smart orthosis in the prevention of postural defects, a study that is the preamble to the physical realization of such an orthosis. The smart orthosis will use inertial sensors capable of calculating orientation angles in a portable monitoring system that will calculate and represent the curvature of the spine. It is hoped that finding a non-invasive solution to identify the shape of the human back can help reduce the time required for medical rehabilitation sessions or can prevent possible postural defects. Results and discussions. In this study, the existing orthoses on the market that could fall into the category of rehabilitation devices used in the prevention of postural defects were evaluated and an intelligent orthosis was designed. Conclusions. At this time, the existence of an intelligent orthosis in the prevention of postural defects would lead to an improvement in health among the population. Also, this prosthesis would crown the work of physiotherapists by maintaining the results obtained. Keywords: postural defects, smart orthosis, prevention, rehabilitation, health improvement,

Role of fascial connectivity in musculoskeletal dysfunctions: A narrative review

INTRODUCTION

Musculoskeletal dysfunctions happen to be the most common reason for referral to physiotherapy and manual therapy services. Therapists use several articular and/or soft tissue concepts/approaches to evaluate and treat such dysfunctions that may include integration of myofascial system. Despite the research in this area spanning more than three decades, the role played by fascia has not received its duly deserved attention, owing to the lack of definitive research evidence. The concept of 'fascial connectivity' evolved two decades ago from a simple anatomical hypothesis called 'myofascial meridians'. Since then it has been widely researched, as conceptually it makes more sense for functional movements than 'single-muscle' theory. Researchers have been exploring its existence and role in musculoskeletal dysfunctions and clinicians continue to practice based on anecdotal evidence. This narrative review attempts to gather available evidence, in order to support and facilitate further research that can enhance evidence based practice in this field.

METHODS

A search of most major databases was conducted with relevant keywords that yielded 272 articles as of December 2019. Thirty five articles were included for final review with level of evidence ranging from 3b to 2a (as per Center of Evidence Based Medicine's scoring).

RESULTS

Findings from cadaveric, animal and human studies supports the claim of fascial connectivity to neighboring structures in the course of specific muscle-fascia chains that may have significant clinical implications. Current research (level 2) supports the existence of certain myofascial connections and their potential role in the manifestation of musculoskeletal dysfunctions and their treatment.

CONCLUSION

Although these reviews and trials yield positive evidence for the objective reality/existence of fascial connectivity and continuity, several aspects need further exploration and in-depth analysis, which could not be evidenced entirely in this review. Manual and physical therapists may utilize the concept of fascial connectivity as a convincing justification to deal with clinical problems, but need to remain vigilant that functional implications are still being investigated.