Sensorimotor and proprioceptive exercise programs to improve balance in older adults: a systematic review with meta-analysis

The primary aim of this study was to systematically review and meta-analyze the impact of sensorimotor and proprioceptive exercises on balance in older adults. We also sought to define how researchers describe proprioceptive and sensory-motor training and their respective protocols. The review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines, with searches performed in March 2023. Both authors carried out independent searches using the PubMed and PEDro databases. From a total of 320 identified records, 12 studies were deemed eligible for meta-analysis after screening and removal of duplicates. The average PEDro score was 5.11 ± 1.11 indicating overall fair quality of studies.  Common outcome measures included the Berg balance scale, Timed up and go test, Tinetti balance scale, Functional reach test and various single-leg stance tests. All outcomes were significantly improved by the interventions (standard mean difference = 0.65 - 1.29), with little difference between proprioceptive and sensorimotor training. However, the quality of evidence ranged from "very low" to "low" based on GRADE guidelines, suggesting further high-quality studies are needed. This review underscores the potential benefits of sensorimotor and proprioceptive exercises for enhancing balance in older adults, while also highlighting the ambiguity and inconsistency regarding the usage of the terms proprioceptive and sensorimotor training.

Potential of molecular biophysical stimulation therapy in chronic musculoskeletal disorders: a narrative review

Current treatment of chronic musculoskeletal diseases does not give sufficient results despite the implementation of novel drugs and techniques in orthopaedics and physical therapy. For instance, osteoporosis treatment is currently mainly limited to drug application, while the goal of osteoarthritis treatment is to mitigate pain symptoms through physical therapy. The main therapeutic principle in the management of osteoporosis is not only to increase bone mass, but also to improve bone and the cartilage quality, which depends on the biomechanical balance. Therefore, there is a strong demand for advanced technologies that would safely and non-invasively accelerate cartilage regeneration and improve bone density. Ten years ago, a new state-of-the-art technology - "Molecular biophysical stimulation therapy (MBST)", specifically nuclear magnetic resonance therapy, emerged on the medical technology market and until now, it has shown successful results in the conservative treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, including back pain. The aim of this review is to provide an integrated, synthesized overview of the current evidence of efficacy of MBST for managing chronic musculoskeletal disorders.

Impostor Syndrome in Physiotherapy Students: Effects of Gender, Year of Study and Clinical Work Experience

Impostor syndrome (IS) manifests as fear of being exposed as incompetent, despite exceptional professional achievements. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of IS among physiotherapy students and to investigate whether there are significant differences according to demographic variables. Data were collected using the Clance Impostor Phenomenon Scale (CIPS), and participants were categorized into one of four groups based on the expression of IS characteristics. We found that IS occurs in the majority of physiotherapy students. Females achieve higher overall CIPS scores compared with males, but the proportion of males and females in each category of IS characteristics is similar. The expression of IS decreases with increasing age, length of clinical work experience, and year of study. Physiotherapy students with clinical work experience have fewer IS characteristics than those without clinical work experience. Study programs and clinical settings in which physiotherapy students receive practical training should pay more attention to raising awareness of IS in order to protect individuals who are particularly vulnerable to the negative consequences of IS.