Objective
To investigate the effects of modified stepping exercises over six weeks on functional mobility and individual lower extremity muscle strength in community-dwelling older individuals.
Methods
This prospective randomized controlled trial design was conducted in thirty-two older adults who completed a modified stepping exercises program (n=16 for soft-surface stepping exercise; n=16 for firm-surface stepping exercise). These exercises were practiced for 50 minutes/day, three days/week, over six weeks. They were assessed for their functional mobility relating to levels of independence at baseline, after 4 weeks, after 6 weeks of intervention, and at 1 month after the last intervention sessions.
Results
Both groups showed significant improvements in functional mobility, lower extremity muscle strength, and walking speed after 4 and 6 weeks of intervention, as well as at the one-month follow-up. However, the soft-surface stepping exercise group exhibited significantly greater improvements in dynamic balance (p=0.035) and lower extremity muscle strength (p=0.015) compared to the firm-surface stepping exercise group after 6 weeks of intervention. Additionally, the soft-surface group demonstrated superior gains in hip flexor (p=0.041), hip extensor (p=0.047), hip adductor (p=0.026), and hip abductor strength (p=0.046), with these enhancements maintained at the one-month follow-up.
Conclusion
Soft-surface stepping exercise that involves whole-body movements offers a promising alternative to promote independence and safety among community-dwelling older adults. This study underscores the need for future research to evaluate the sustained impact of these benefits post-intervention, particularly during a retention period following the intervention.

Objective
To determine the effectiveness of adding inspiratory muscle training (IMT) alongside a pulmonary rehabilitation protocol in terms of inspiratory muscle strength, lung function, and exercise capacity in burned adults.
Methods
A randomized, double-blinded, sham-controlled study. Fifty-two adult patients with burn injuries, more than 20 years old and at least 20% total body surface area, were assigned randomly either to the experimental or the conventional group. The participants in the experimental group were given IMT plus a pulmonary rehabilitation program; the conventional group received only a pulmonary rehabilitation program. The interventions were performed for 8 weeks. At the beginning and after 8 weeks of training, the respiratory muscles’ strength, lung function and exercise capacity were all examined.
Results
After 2 months of training, the experimental group demonstrated statistically significant improvements than conventional group in maximum inspiratory pressure, maximum expiratory pressure, 6-minute walk test, forced vital capacity, and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (p<0.05).
Conclusion
An 8-week IMT program coupled with pulmonary rehabilitation increases respiratory muscle strength, pulmonary functions, and functional capacity in burn patients. IMT is a beneficial and efficient therapy that can be easily implemented for burn patients.

Objective
To develop a computerized visuomotor integration system for assessment and training of visual perception impairments and evaluate its safety and feasibility in patients with a stroke. Visual field defects and spatial neglect lead to substantial poststroke impairment. Most diagnostic assessments are anchored in traditional methods, and clinical effects of rehabilitation treatments are limited.
Methods
The CoTras Vision system included two evaluations and four training modules. The evaluation modules were based on the Albert’s test and Star cancellation test, and training modules were based on visual tracking, central-peripheral integration, and visuomotor perception techniques. Bland–Altman plots for agreement with the traditional paper-and-pencil test were performed, and the modified Intrinsic Motivation Inventory, Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire, and Simulator Sickness Questionnaire were conducted.
Results
Ten patients with acute stroke completed the study. Bland–Altman plots revealed good agreements for Albert’s test (mean difference, -0.3±4.5) and Star cancellation test (mean difference, 0.3±0.7). The mean±standard deviation scores of the modified Intrinsic Motivation Inventory, Patient Satisfaction Survey, and Simulator Sickness Questionnaire were 84.7±30.6, 40.5±7.9, and 34.0±34.5 respectively.
Conclusion
The CoTras Vision system is feasible and safe in patients with stroke. Most patients had a high degree of motivation to use the system and did not experience severe adverse events. Further studies are needed to confirm its usefulness in stroke patients with visual field defects and hemineglect symptoms. Furthermore, a large, well-designed, randomized controlled trial will be needed to confirm the treatment effect of the CoTras Vision system.

Citations

• Tablet computer-based cognitive training for visuomotor integration in children with developmental delay: a pilot study
  Jee Hyun Suh, Soo Jeong Han, Sun Ah Choi, Hyesung Yang, Sihyun Park
  BMC Pediatrics.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef

Objective
To evaluate the efficacy of light-emitting diode (LED) and their dual-wavelengths as a treatment strategy for osteoarthritis.
Methods
We induced osteoarthritis in male Sprague-Dawley rats by intra-articular injection of sodium iodoacetate into the right rear knee joint. The animals with lesions were divided into an untreated group and an LED-treated group (n=7 each). In the LED-treated group, the lesioned knee was irradiated with lasers (850 and 940 nm) and dose (3.15 J/cm²) for 20 minutes per session, twice a week for 4 weeks. Knee joint tissues were stained and scanned using an in vivo micro-computed tomography (CT) scanner. Serum interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-18 levels were determined using enzyme-linked immuno-sorbent assay. Several functional tests (lines crossed, rotational movement, rearing, and latency to remain rotating rod) were performed 24 hours before LED treatment and at 7, 14, 21, and 28 days after treatment.
Results
LED-treated rats showed improved locomotor function and suppressed matrix-degrading cytokines. Micro-CT images indicated that LED therapy had a preserving effect on cartilage and cortical bone.
Conclusion
LED treatment using wavelengths of 850 and 940 nm resulted in significant functional, anatomical, and histologic improvements without adverse events in a rat model. Further research is required to determine the optimal wavelength, duration, and combination method, which will maximize treatment effectiveness.

Citations

• Photobiomodulation Literature Watch December 2023
  James D. Carroll
  Photobiomodulation, Photomedicine, and Laser Surgery.2024; 42(10): 660.     CrossRef

Objective
To evaluate the relationship between respiratory muscle strength, diaphragm thickness (DT), and indices of sarcopenia.
Methods
This study included 45 healthy elderly volunteers (21 male and 24 female) aged 65 years or older. Sarcopenia indices, including hand grip strength (HGS) and body mass index-adjusted appendicular skeletal muscle (ASM/BMI), were measured using a hand grip dynamometer and bioimpedance analysis, respectively. Calf circumference (CC) and gait speed were also measured. Maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) and maximal expiratory pressure (MEP) were obtained using a spirometer, as a measure of respiratory muscle strength. DT was evaluated through ultrasonography. The association between indices of sarcopenia, respiratory muscle strength, and DT was evaluated using Spearman’s rank correlation test, and univariate and multiple regression analysis.
Results
ASM/BMI (r=0.609, p<0.01), CC (r=0.499, p<0.01), HGS (r=0.759, p<0.01), and gait speed (r=0.319, p<0.05) were significantly correlated with DT. In the univariate linear regression analysis, MIP was significantly associated with age (p=0.003), DT (p<0.001), HGS (p=0.002), CC (p=0.013), and gait speed (p=0.026). MEP was significantly associated with sex (p=0.001), BMI (p=0.033), ASM/BMI (p=0.003), DT (p<0.001), HGS (p<0.001), CC (p=0.001) and gait speed (p=0.004). In the multiple linear regression analysis, age (p=0.001), DT (p<0.001), and ASM/BMI (p=0.008) showed significant association with MIP. DT (p<0.001) and gait speed (p=0.050) were associated with MEP.
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that respiratory muscle strength is associated with DT and indices of sarcopenia. Further prospective studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm these findings.

Citations

• The Role of Diaphragmatic Ultrasound in Identifying Sarcopenia in COPD Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study
  Nur Aleyna Yetkin, Sibel Akın, Derya Kocaslan, Burcu Baran, Bilal Rabahoglu, Fatma Sema Oymak, Nuri Tutar, İnci Gulmez
  International Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.2025; Volume 20: 1.     CrossRef
• Relationship Between Diaphragm Function and Sarcopenia Assessed by Ultrasound: A Cross-Sectional Study
  Takahiro Shinohara, Toru Yamada, Shuji Ouchi, Suguru Mabuchi, Ryoichi Hanazawa, Kazuharu Nakagawa, Kanako Yoshimi, Tatsuya Mayama, Ayane Horike, Kenji Toyoshima, Yoshiaki Tamura, Atsushi Araki, Haruka Tohara, Akihiro Hirakawa, Takuma Kimura, Takeshi Ishid
  Diagnostics.2025; 15(1): 90.     CrossRef
• Descriptive Epidemiology and Prognostic Significance of Diaphragm Thickness in the General Population: The Nagahama Study
  Yasuharu Tabara, Takeshi Matsumoto, Kimihiko Murase, Takahisa Kawaguchi, Kazuya Setoh, Tomoko Wakamura, Toyohiro Hirai, Kazuo Chin, Fumihiko Matsuda
  Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Diaphragm thickness and ICU admission risk in elderly COVID-19 patients: a CT-based analysis
  Mercan Tastemur, Cagla Ozdemir, Esin Olcucuoğlu, Gunes Arik, Ihsan Ates, Kamile Silay
  BMC Pulmonary Medicine.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Relationship Between Handgrip Strength and Lung Function in Adults: The Role of Sex and Age
  Shiqi Deng, Urme Binte Sayeed, Yukiko Wagatsuma
  Cureus.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Definition, diagnosis, and treatment of respiratory sarcopenia
  Shinjiro Miyazaki, Akira Tamaki, Hidetaka Wakabayashi, Hidenori Arai
  Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition & Metabolic Care.2024; 27(3): 210.     CrossRef
• Diaphragm Ultrasound in Different Clinical Scenarios: A Review with a Focus on Older Patients
  Carmine Siniscalchi, Antonio Nouvenne, Nicoletta Cerundolo, Tiziana Meschi, Andrea Ticinesi
  Geriatrics.2024; 9(3): 70.     CrossRef
• Appropriate body position and site for diaphragm ultrasound: Comparison with inspiratory mouth pressure
  Kazunori Okada, Akiko Kamiya, Yusuke Yanagi, Masahiro Nakabachi, Yasuhiro Hayashi, Michito Murayama, Sanae Kaga
  WFUMB Ultrasound Open.2024; 2(2): 100052.     CrossRef
• Evaluation of the Functional Reserve and Exercise Tolerance in Patients with CHF in Clinical Trials (Consent Document of the Editorial board of the Journal of Cardiology, the Board of the Society of Specialists in Heart Failure (SSHF) and Working Group “N
  Yu. L. Begrambekova, G. P. Arutynov, M. G. Glezer, N. A. Karanadze, E. A. Kolesnikova, T. A. Lelyavina, A. S. Lishuta, Ya. A. Orlova, Yu. N. Belenkov
  Kardiologiia.2024; 64(7): 4.     CrossRef
• Validating respiratory sarcopenia diagnostic criteria by mortality based on a position paper by four professional organizations: Insights from the Otassha study
  Takeshi Kera, Hisashi Kawai, Manami Ejiri, Keigo Imamura, Hirohiko Hirano, Yoshinori Fujiwara, Kazushige Ihara, Shuichi Obuchi
  Geriatrics & Gerontology International.2024; 24(9): 948.     CrossRef
• Evaluating Respiratory Muscle Strength in Sarcopenia Screening among Older Men in South Korea: A Retrospective Analysis
  Tae Sung Park, Sa-Eun Park, Ki-Hun Kim, Sang Hun Kim, Myung Hun Jang, Myung-Jun Shin, Yun Kyung Jeon
  The World Journal of Men's Health.2024; 42(4): 890.     CrossRef
• Tongue pressure, respiratory muscle and limb strength and functional exercise capacity in oesophageal cancer
  Takuya Fukushima, Makoto Yamasaki, Nobuyuki Yamamoto, Yasuaki Arima, Takashi Harino, Soshi Hori, Yuki Hashimoto, Masaya Kotsuka, Kentaro Inoue, Kimitaka Hase, Jiro Nakano
  BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care.2024; 14(4): 434.     CrossRef

Objective
To assess the accuracy of recently commercialized wearable devices in heart rate (HR) measurement during cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPX) under gradual increase in exercise intensity, while wearable devices with HR monitors are reported to be less accurate in different exercise intensities.
Methods
CPX was performed for patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Twelve lead electrocardiograph (ECG) was the gold standard and Apple watch 7 (AW7), Galaxy watch 4 (GW4) and Bio Patch Mobicare 200 (MC200) were applied for comparison. Paired absolute difference (PAD), mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were evaluated for each device.
Results
Forty-four participants with CAD were included. All the devices showed MAPE under 2% and ICC above 0.9 in rest, exercise and recovery phases (MC200=0.999, GW4=0.997, AW7=0.998). When comparing exercise and recovery phase, PAD of MC200 and AW7 in recovery phase were significantly bigger than PAD of exercise phase (p<0.05). Although not significant, PAD of GW4 tended to be bigger in recovery phase, too. Also, when stratified by HR 20, ICC of all the devices were highest under HR of 100, and ICC decreased as HR increased. However, except for ICC of GW4 at HR above 160 (=0.867), all ICCs exceeded 0.9 indicating excellent accuracy.
Conclusion
The HR measurement of the devices validated in this study shows a high concordance with the ECG device, so CAD patients may benefit from the devices during high-intensity exercise under conditions where HR is measured reliably.

Citations

• Prognostic Factors for Responders of Home-Based Pulmonary Rehabilitation—Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial
  Chul Kim, Hee-Eun Choi, Chin Kook Rhee, Jae Ha Lee, Ju Hyun Oh, Jun Hyeong Song
  Healthcare.2025; 13(3): 308.     CrossRef
• Wearable Devices for Exercise Prescription and Physical Activity Monitoring in Patients with Various Cardiovascular Conditions
  Tasuku Terada, Matheus Hausen, Kimberley L. Way, Carley D. O’Neill, Isabela Roque Marçal, Paul Dorian, Jennifer L. Reed
  CJC Open.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Apple watch accuracy in monitoring health metrics: a systematic review and meta-analysis
  Ju-Pil Choe, Minsoo Kang
  Physiological Measurement.2025; 46(4): 04TR01.     CrossRef
• Assessment of Samsung Galaxy Watch4 PPG-Based Heart Rate During Light-to-Vigorous Physical Activities
  Caíque Santos Lima, Felipe Capiteli Bertocco, José Igor Vasconcelos de Oliveira, Thiago Mattos Frota de Souza, Emely Pujólli da Silva, Fernando J. Von Zuben
  IEEE Sensors Letters.2024; 8(7): 1.     CrossRef
• The Accessibility and Effect of Cardiac Rehabilitation in COVID-19 Pandemic Era
  Chul Kim, Jun Hyeong Song, Seung Hyoun Kim
  Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine.2024; 48(4): 249.     CrossRef
• The eTRIMP method for bodybuilding training load assessment: A review with a case study
  Fernandes Haniel
  Annals of Musculoskeletal Medicine.2023; 7(2): 016.     CrossRef
• Recommendations for Measurement of Bodybuilding Internal Training Load by eTRIMP Method
  Fernandes Haniel
  Journal of Sports Medicine and Therapy.2023; 8(4): 051.     CrossRef

Objective
To investigate the clinical and swallowing characteristics related to respiratory infection in patients with parkinsonism.
Methods
One hundred and forty-two patients with parkinsonism who underwent videofluoroscopic swallowing studies (VFSS) were enrolled in this study. The initial clinical and VFSS characteristics were compared between patients with and without a history of respiratory infection in the past year. A multivariate logistic regression model was applied to identify clinical and swallowing characteristics related to respiratory infections.
Results
Patients with respiratory infections were older (74.75±10.20 years vs. 70.70±8.83 years, p=0.037), had a higher Hoehn and Yahr (H&Y) stage (stage IV–V, 67.9% vs. 49.1%; p=0.047), and were more likely to have a diagnosis of idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (IPD) (67.9% vs. 41.2%, p=0.011) than those without respiratory infections. Among VFSS findings, bolus formation, premature bolus loss, oral transit time, pyriform sinus residues, pharyngeal wall coatings, and penetration/aspiration were significantly worse in patients with respiratory infections (p<0.05). Regarding clinical characteristics, higher H&Y stage (odds ratio [OR], 3.174; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.226–8.216; p=0.017) and diagnosis of IPD (OR, 0.280, 95% CI, 0.111–0.706; p=0.007) were significantly related to respiratory infections in the multivariate analysis. Among VFSS findings, pyriform sinus residue (OR, 14.615; 95% CI, 2.257–94.623; p=0.005) and premature bolus loss (OR, 5.151; 95% CI, 1.047–25.338; p=0.044) were also significantly associated with respiratory infection.
Conclusion
This study suggests that disease severity, diagnosis, pyriform sinus residue, and premature bolus loss observed in VFSS are associated with respiratory infection in patients with parkinsonism.

Objective
To assess the impact of a “one-stop”, multi-modal, hospital-associated-home-based prehabilitation model, helmed by a small core team, on newly diagnosed gastrointestinal and urological cancer patients planned for surgery.
Methods
This is a retrospective study in a tertiary public hospital, involving all newly diagnosed gastrointestinal and urological cancer patients planned for surgery. The primary outcome measure was the 6-minute walk test (6MWT). Other outcomes included physical, psychological and quality-of-life measures, and patient satisfaction surveys, taken at baseline, pre-operatively (post-prehabilitation), and at 3 months post-operatively.
Results
When comparing the baseline to pre-operatively (post-prehabilitation), there was a statistically significant improvement in the 6MWT (21.52 m, p<0.001), 30-Second Sit to Stand test (STS) (1.08 repetitions, p<0.001), Timed Up and Go test (TUG) (0.83 seconds, p=0.014) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) (total score 1.77, p<0.001). These were sustained (6MWT: 0.22, p=0.964; STS: 0.08 repetitions, p=0.863; TUG: 0.04 seconds, p=0.939) or further improved (HADS total score 2.06, p=0.003) at 3 months post-operatively. There was also a statistically significant improvement in the EuroQol-5 dimension health score (health-related quality-of-life measure) from baseline to 3 months post-operatively (7.04 points, p=0.001), with more than 90% overall patient satisfaction reported.
Conclusion
Prehabilitation applied via our model resulted in significant improvements in functional capacity, psychological and quality-of-life outcomes, sustained at 3 months post-operatively, and is a feasible and effective approach that is well-received by our patients.

Citations

• Feasibility, User Acceptance, and Outcomes of Using a Cancer Prehabilitation App for Exercise: Pilot Cohort Study
  Fuquan Zhang, Deepali Bang, Christine Alejandro Visperas, Mon Hnin Tun, San San Tay
  JMIR Formative Research.2025; 9: e64427.     CrossRef
• Measures of preoperative anxiety: Part two
  Katarzyna Nowicka-Sauer, Adam Zemła, Dorota Banaszkiewicz, Bartosz G. Trzeciak, Krzysztof Jarmoszewicz
  Anaesthesiology Intensive Therapy.2024; 56(1): 9.     CrossRef
• Prevention and treatment of noncognitive complications
  André van Zundert, Stephen P. Gatt, Tom Christophe van Zundert
  Saudi Journal of Anaesthesia.2023; 17(4): 557.     CrossRef

Objective
To define the effect of the inspiratory method and cough timing on peak cough flow (PCF).
Methods
We investigated the effect of measurement conditions on PCF in healthy subjects (n=10). We then compared obstructive and restrictive pulmonary diseases (n=20) to assess for similar results in respiratory diseases. The PCF was measured under four conditions: before coughing, without maneuver 1 or with maneuver 2 a temporary respiratory pause (4–6 seconds) after rapid inspiration, and without maneuver 3 or with maneuver 4 a temporary respiratory pause after slow inspiration. After the measurements were completed, the PCF between the four conditions was compared for each subject group, and the effect size was calculated.
Results
PCF of maneuvers 1 and 3 were significantly higher than maneuver 4 in healthy subjects (476.34±102.05 L/min and 463.44±107.14 L/min vs. 429.54±116.83 L/min, p<0.01 and p<0.05, respectively) and patients with restrictive pulmonary disease (381.96±145.31 L/min, 354.60±157.36 L/min vs. 296.94±137.49 L/min, p<0.01 and p<0.05, respectively). In obstructive pulmonary disease, maneuver 1 was significantly higher than maneuver 4 (327.42±154.73 L/min vs. 279.48±141.10 L/min, p<0.05). The largest effect sizes were shown by maneuvers 4 and 1.
Conclusion
PCF depends on changes in inspiratory speed before coughing and on temporary respiratory pauses after maximal inspiration. It will become necessary to unify the measurement methods for coughing strength and present appropriate coughing methods.

Citations

• Factors related to pre-operative cough strength in cardiac surgical patients: a cross-sectional study
  Yan Zhang, Zheng Lin, Yuhong Chen, Liang Hong, Xiao Shen
  Heart & Lung.2024; 63: 128.     CrossRef

Objective
To explore the effects of tactile stimulation using air pressure at the auricular branch of the vagus nerve on autonomic activity in healthy individuals.
Methods
Three types of tactile stimulation were used in this study: continuous low-amplitude, continuous high-amplitude, and pulsed airflow. The tactile stimulations were provided to the cymba concha to investigate autonomic activity in 22 healthy participants. The mean heart rate (HR) and parameters of HR variability, including the standard deviation of R-R intervals (SDNN) and root mean square of successive R-R interval differences (RMSSD) were compared at baseline, stimulation, and recovery periods.
Results
Two-way repeated measures ANOVA indicated a significant main effect of time on HR (p=0.001), SDNN (p=0.003), and RMSSD (p<0.001). These parameters showed significant differences between baseline and stimulation periods and baseline and recovery periods in the post-hoc analyses. There were no significant differences in the changes induced by stimulation type and the interaction between time and stimulation type for all parameters. One-way repeated measures ANOVA showed that HR, SDNN, and RMSSD did not differ significantly among the three time periods during sham stimulation.
Conclusion
Parasympathetic activity can be enhanced by auricular tactile stimulation using air pressure, targeting the cymba concha. Further studies are warranted to investigate the optimal stimulation parameters for potential clinical significance.

Citations

• Stroking Stimuli to the Ear to Enhance Pleasant and Non-arousing Feelings while Listening to Sounds
  Yuta GOTO, Shogo OKAMOTO
  International Journal of Affective Engineering.2024; 23(3): 251.     CrossRef
• Relaxation Effects of Auricular Vibration Stimuli Synchronized with Music
  Yuta GOTO, Shogo OKAMOTO
  International Symposium on Affective Science and Engineering.2024; ISASE2024: 1.     CrossRef
• Effects of tactile auricular vagus nerve stimulation using heated and humidified airflow on cardiac autonomic activity: a pilot experimental study
  Soohyun Wi, Sungwoo Park, Byung-Mo Oh, Han Gil Seo, Yae Lim Lee, Woo Hyung Lee
  Clinical Autonomic Research.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef

Objective
To prove the hypothesis that the parameters of intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) during will be more deteriorated in neuromuscular scoliosis (NMS) than in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS).
Methods
This retrospective study reviewed the data of 69 patients (NMS=32, AIS=37) who underwent scoliosis surgery under IONM. The amplitude of motor evoked potentials (MEPs), and the amplitude and the latency of somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) were examined. Demographic, preoperative, perioperative and postoperative data were analyzed to determine whether they affected the IONM parameters for each group.
Results
Of the items analyzed, the bleeding amount was the only significant risk factor for SEP latency deterioration in the NMS group only. The amplitude of SEP and MEP did not correlate with the hemodynamic parameters. The NMS/AIS ratios of the bleeding-related parameters were higher in the order of bleeding amount/weight (2.62, p<0.01), bleeding amount/body mass index (2.13, p<0.01), and bleeding amount (1.56, p<0.01). This study suggests that SEP latency is more vulnerable than SEP or MEP amplitude in ischemic conditions during scoliosis surgery.
Conclusion
In NMS patients, it should be considered that the bleeding amount can have a critical effect on intraoperative electrophysiological deterioration.

Citations

• Cerebral Perfusion Unveiled: A Comprehensive Review of Blood Pressure Management in Neurosurgical and Endovascular Aneurysm Interventions
  Shubham Petkar, Vivek Chakole, Roshan Nisal, Vishnu Priya
  Cureus.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Improvement in functional motor scores in patients with non-ambulatory spinal muscle atrophy during Nusinersen treatment in South Korea: a single center study
  Jin A. Yoon, Yuju Jeong, Jiae Lee, Dong Jun Lee, Kyung Nam Lee, Yong Beom Shin
  BMC Neurology.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef

Objective
To clarify the profile of cognitive dysfunction and the effects of intensive exercise in spinocerebellar degeneration (SCD).
Methods
We enrolled 60 healthy controls and 16 patients with purely cerebellar type SCD without gait disturbance or organic changes other than cerebellar changes. To assess cognitive function, we evaluated the participants using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB), and Montreal Cognitive Assessment-Japanese (MoCA-J) at admission and after intensive exercise.
Results
Compared to the controls, SCD patients showed significant cognitive decline. As a result of intensive exercise, significant improvements in motor and cognitive functions were observed: the MMSE score improved from 27.7±1.9 to 29.0±1.3 points (p<0.001); the FAB score improved from 14.8±2.2 to 15.8±2.0 points (p=0.002); and the MoCA-J score improved from 24.6±2.2 to 26.7±1.9 points (p<0.001). For sub-scores, significant improvements were noted in serial 7, lexical fluency, motor series, and delayed recall.
Conclusion
Our study indicates that intensive exercise can be effective not only for motor dysfunction but also for cognitive dysfunction (Clinical Trial Registration No. UMIN-CTR: UMIN000040079).

Objective
To assess the accuracies and validities of popular smart bands for heart rate (HR) measurement in cardiovascular disease (CVD) patients during a graded exercise test (GXT).
Methods
Seventy-eight patients were randomly assigned to wear two different smart bands out of three possible choices: Samsung Galaxy Fit 2, Xiaomi Mi Band 5, or Partron PWB-250 on each wrist. A 12-lead exercise electrocardiogram (ECG) and patch-type single-lead ECG were used to assess the comparative HR accuracy of the smart bands. The HR was recorded during the GXT using the modified Bruce protocol.
Results
The concordance correlation coefficients (r_c) were calculated to provide a measure of agreement between each device and the ECG. In all conditions, the Mi Band 5 and Galaxy Fit 2’ correlations were r_c>0.90, while the PWB-250 correlation was r_c=0.58 at rest. When evaluating the accuracy according to the magnitude of HR, all smart bands performed well (r_c>0.90) when the HR was below 100 but accuracy tended to decrease with higher HR values.
Conclusion
This study showed that the three smart bands had a high level of accuracy for HR measurements during low-intensity exercise. However, during moderate-intensity and high-intensity exercise, all the three smart bands performed less accurately. Further studies are needed to find a more optimal smart band for HR measurement that can be used for precise HR monitoring during formal cardiac rehabilitation exercise training, including at high and maximal intensity (Clinical Trial Registration No. cris.nih.go.kr/KCT0007036).

Citations

• The Accessibility and Effect of Cardiac Rehabilitation in COVID-19 Pandemic Era
  Chul Kim, Jun Hyeong Song, Seung Hyoun Kim
  Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine.2024; 48(4): 249.     CrossRef
• An Evaluation of the Effect of App-Based Exercise Prescription Using Reinforcement Learning on Satisfaction and Exercise Intensity: Randomized Crossover Trial
  Cailbhe Doherty, Rory Lambe, Ben O’Grady, Diarmuid O’Reilly-Morgan, Barry Smyth, Aonghus Lawlor, Neil Hurley, Elias Tragos
  JMIR mHealth and uHealth.2024; 12: e49443.     CrossRef
• Women’s Involvement in Steady Exercise (WISE): Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
  Irene Ferrando-Terradez, Lirios Dueñas, Ivana Parčina, Nemanja Ćopić, Svetlana Petronijević, Gianfranco Beltrami, Fabio Pezzoni, Constanza San Martín-Valenzuela, Maarten Gijssel, Stefano Moliterni, Panagiotis Papageorgiou, Yelko Rodríguez-Carrasco
  Healthcare.2023; 11(9): 1279.     CrossRef

Objective
To investigate the association of trunk fat and muscle composition, lumbar disc space narrowing, and low back pain in middle-aged farmers.
Methods
Fat and muscle areas were identified using standard Hounsfield unit ranges for adipose tissue and skeletal muscle with computed tomography images at the mid-L4 vertebral level. Trunk fat mass, muscle mass, and fat/muscle mass ratio were calculated. Low back pain was assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). The L4/5-disc space and low back pain were also assessed.
Results
Male had a higher total trunk, back, psoas, and abdominal muscle mass, and visceral fat; female had a higher subcutaneous fat mass and fat/muscle ratio. Pearson correlation coefficients with ODI for waist circumference, total fat mass, visceral fat mass, and fat/muscle ratio were all significant in female; only the fat/muscle ratio was significant in male. Pearson correlation coefficients with L4/5-disc space narrowing grades for visceral fat mass, total, back, and psoas muscle mass, and fat/muscle ratio, were all significant in female; total and back muscle mass, and fat/muscle ratio in male.
Conclusion
There were significant relationships between: fat indicators with low back pain; trunk muscle mass with lumbar disc degeneration; and fat/muscle ratio with both lumbar disc degeneration and low back pain. The fat/muscle ratio may be a useful index for low back pain.

Citations

• Association between a body shape index and low back pain: a cross-sectional study highlighting gender-specific differences in NHANES data
  Shiwei Xie, Heng Xiao, Gengwu Li, Jigen Zheng, Fan Zhang, Yuping Lan, Mingwei Luo
  BMC Public Health.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Biomechanical changes in females with poly cystic ovarian syndrome: a case–control study
  Eman E. Kamal, Hamada A. Hamada, Reda Sayed Ashour, Amel M. Yousef, Rovan M. Elbesh
  Scientific Reports.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Exploring the Relationship Between Low Back Pain, Physical Activity, Posture, and Body Composition in Older Women
  Barbara Rosolek, Dan Iulian Alexe, Krystyna Gawlik, Elena Adelina Panaet, Ilie Mihai, Bogdan Alexandru Antohe, Anna Zwierzchowska
  Healthcare.2025; 13(9): 1054.     CrossRef
• Association of Body Mass Index and Central Obesity with Spinopelvic Alignment Parameters in a Chinese Population: A Prospective Study
  Hao Qi, Zenghui Zhao, Feiyu Zu, Chenxi Wang, Chenchen Wang, Zuzhuo Zhang, Xiaonan Tian, Dan Su, Zhaoxuan Wang, Rui Xue, Zhiyong Hou, Wei Chen, Di Zhang
  World Neurosurgery.2024; 189: e153.     CrossRef
• The Effect of Intraabdominal Visceral and Subcutaneous Adipose Volume and Muscle Volume on Lumbar Vertebrae Degeneration
  Rabia Mihriban Kilinc, Fatih İlker Can
  Cureus.2023;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Fat Hounsfield Unit Reference Interval Derived through an Indirect Method
  Marian Pop, Marius Mărușteri
  Diagnostics.2023; 13(11): 1913.     CrossRef
• Relationships Between Skeletal Muscle Mass, Lumbar Lordosis, and Chronic Low Back Pain in the Elderly
  Myung Woo Park, Sang Jun Park, Sun Gun Chung
  Neurospine.2023; 20(3): 959.     CrossRef
• Back Extensor Strength as a Potential Marker of Frailty Using Propensity Score Matching and Machine Learning
  Taewook Kim, Gowun Kim, Hee-won Park, Eun Kyoung Kang, Sora Baek
  Journal of Clinical Medicine.2023; 12(19): 6156.     CrossRef
• Comprehensive Physical Work Capacity Evaluations for Korean Farmers Assessed in Healthy Volunteers
  Seungsu Jeong, Gowun Kim, Hee-won Park, Sora Baek
  Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine.2023; 47(6): 468.     CrossRef
• The Relationship Between Low Back Pain and Sagittal Spinal Alignment and Back Muscle Mass in Korean Fishery Workers
  Minjung Kook, Insuh Kim, Jeongyeon Seo, Hyundong Kim, Heesung Nam, Nami Han
  Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine.2023; 47(6): 459.     CrossRef

Objective
To compare the predicted and actual maximal heart rate (HRmax) values in the cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET).
Methods
We retrospectively investigated 1,060 patients who underwent a CPET between January 2016 and April 2020 at our institution’s cardiopulmonary rehabilitation center. The following patients were included: those aged >20 years, those tested with a treadmill, and those who underwent symptom-limited maximum exercise testing— reaching ≥85% of the predicted HRmax (62% if taking beta-blockers) and highest respiratory exchange ratio ≥1.1. Ultimately, 827 patients were included in this study. Data on diagnosis, history of taking beta-blockers, age, body mass index (BMI), and CPET parameters were collected. Subgroup analysis was performed according to age, betablockers, BMI (low <18.5 kg/m², normal, and high ≥25 kg/m²), and risk classification.
Results
There was a significant difference between the actual HRmax and the predicted value (p<0.001). Betablocker administration resulted in a significant difference in the actual HRmax (p<0.001). There were significant differences in the moderate-to-high-risk and low-risk groups and the normal BMI and high BMI groups (p<0.001). There was no significant difference between the elderly and younger groups. We suggest new formulae for HRmax of cardiopulmonary patients: estimated HRmax=183-0.76×age (the beta-blocker group) and etimated HRmax=210-0.91×age (the non-beta-blocker group).
Conclusion
Age-predicted HRmax was significantly different from the actual HRmax of patients with cardiopulmonary disease, especially in the beta-blocker group. For participants with high BMI and moderate-tosevere risk, the actual HRmax was significantly lower than the predicted HRmax.

Citations

• Prognostic Factors for Responders of Home-Based Pulmonary Rehabilitation—Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial
  Chul Kim, Hee-Eun Choi, Chin Kook Rhee, Jae Ha Lee, Ju Hyun Oh, Jun Hyeong Song
  Healthcare.2025; 13(3): 308.     CrossRef
• Free-Living Physical Activity Energy Expenditure Based on Accelerometry Versus Heart Rate in Community-Dwelling Older Adults
  Joona Neuvonen, Timo Aittokoski, Timo Rantalainen, Jukka Lipponen, Lotta Palmberg, Soren Brage, Tomas I. Gonzales, Erja Portegijs, Taina Rantanen, Laura Karavirta
  Journal for the Measurement of Physical Behaviour.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Efficacy of a digital lifestyle intervention on health-related QUAlity of life in non-small cell LUng CAncer survivors following inpatient rehabilitation: protocol of the QUALUCA Swiss multicentre randomised controlled trial
  Manuel Weber, Anja Maria Raab, Kai-Uwe Schmitt, Gilbert Büsching, Thimo Marcin, Marc Spielmanns, Milo Alan Puhan, Anja Frei
  BMJ Open.2024; 14(3): e081397.     CrossRef
• High-intensity interval training improves bone remodeling, lipid profile, and physical function in multiple sclerosis patients
  Alessandra Amato, Patrizia Proia, Anna Alioto, Carlo Rossi, Andrea Pagliaro, Paolo Ragonese, Giuseppe Schirò, Giuseppe Salemi, Rosalia Caldarella, Sonya Vasto, Robert Nowak, Dorota Kostrzewa-Nowak, Giuseppe Musumeci, Sara Baldassano
  Scientific Reports.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Association between short-term exposure to high-level particulate matter (PM1 , PM2.5, and PM10) of smoke Peganum harmala seeds with blood pressure: A quasi-experimental study
  Yadolah Fakhri, Ibrahim Ziad Abdullah, Ayham Issam Qasem Al-issa, Elham Rahmanzadeh, Somayeh Hoseinvandtabar, Somayyeh Dehghani, Mahdi Ghorbanian, Amin Ghanbarnejad
  Environmental Health Engineering and Management.2024; 11(4): 419.     CrossRef
• Exergaming in older adults: the effects of game characteristics on brain activity and physical activity
  Helen Müller, Jochen Baumeister, Ellen Marie Bardal, Beatrix Vereijken, Nina Skjæret-Maroni
  Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience.2023;[Epub]     CrossRef

Objective
To utilize pulmonary function parameters as predictive factors for dysphagia in individuals with cervical spinal cord injuries (CSCIs).
Methods
Medical records of 78 individuals with CSCIs were retrospectively reviewed. The pulmonary function was evaluated using spirometry and peak flow meter, whereas the swallowing function was assessed using a videofluoroscopic swallowing study. Participants were divided into the non-penetration-aspiration group (score 1 on the Penetration-Aspiration Scale [PAS]) and penetration-aspiration group (scores 2–8 on the PAS). Individuals with pharyngeal residue grade scores >1 were included in the pharyngeal residue group.
Results
The mean age was significantly higher in the penetration-aspiration and pharyngeal residue groups. In this study, individuals with clinical features, such as advanced age, history of tracheostomy, anterior surgical approach, and higher neurological level of injury, had significantly more penetration-aspiration or pharyngeal residue. Individuals in the penetration-aspiration group had significantly lower peak cough flow (PCF) levels. Individuals in the pharyngeal residue group had a significantly lower forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1). According to the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis of PCF and FEV1 on the PAS, the cutoff value was 140 L/min and 37.5% of the predicted value, respectively.
Conclusion
Low PCF and FEV1 values may predict the risk of dysphagia in individuals with CSCIs. In these individuals, active evaluation of swallowing is recommended to confirm dysphagia.

Citations

• Methods of diagnosis and rehabilitation of dysphagia in patients with spinal cord injury: a systematic review
  Roberta ZUPO, Beatrice POGGI, Nicole CAGGIANO, Giulio VARRONE, Fabio CASTELLANA, Silvia NATOLI, Rodolfo SARDONE, Antonio NARDONE, Chiara PAVESE
  European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Pulmonary function and sarcopenia as predictors of dysphagia in cervical spinal cord injury
  Su Ji Lee, Ji Cheol Shin
  Spinal Cord.2024; 62(1): 42.     CrossRef
• Evaluation of clinical factors predicting dysphagia in patients with traumatic and non-traumatic cervical spinal cord injury: a retrospective study
  Jin-Woo Choi, Dae Yeong Kim, Sun Young Joo, Donghwi Park, Min Cheol Chang
  Frontiers in Neurology.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Coordination Between Respiration and Swallowing in Patients With Dysphagia After Cervical Spinal Cord Injury: An Observational Case–Control Study
  Xuluan Xu, Qingsu Zhang, Yongqi Xie, Degang Yang, Feng Gao, Yongxue Yuan, Yu Zhang, Jianjun Li
  American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology.2024; 33(5): 2572.     CrossRef
• Flujo máximo de tos y evaluación de la deglución: Una revisión de literatura
  Amalia Nanjarí R , María del Carmen Campos
  Revista Científica Signos Fónicos.2024; 10(1): 7.     CrossRef
• Voluntary Cough Testing as a Clinical Indicator of Airway Protection in Cervical Spinal Cord Injury
  Laura Pitts, Valerie K. Hamilton, Erin A. Walaszek, Stephanie Watts, Leora R. Cherney
  The Laryngoscope.2023; 133(6): 1434.     CrossRef
• Association between Anterior Surgical Approach and Dysphagia Severity in Patients with Cervical Spinal Cord Injury
  Min Cheol Chang, Dae Yeong Kim, Jin-Woo Choi, Ho Yong Choi, Jin-Sung Park, Donghwi Park
  Journal of Clinical Medicine.2023; 12(9): 3227.     CrossRef
• Successful Continuation of Oral Intake in a Dysphagic and Tetraplegic Patient With Alternate Right and Left Complete Lateral Decubitus Positions in Rehabilitation
  Yoshinori Maki, Mayumi Takagawa, Akio Goda, Junichi Katsura, Ken Yanagibashi
  Cureus.2023;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Laryngeal and swallow dysregulation following acute cervical spinal cord injury
  Teresa Pitts, Kimberly E. Iceman, Alyssa Huff, M. Nicholas Musselwhite, Michael L. Frazure, Kellyanna C. Young, Clinton L. Greene, Dena R. Howland
  Journal of Neurophysiology.2022; 128(2): 405.     CrossRef

Objective
To investigate the relationship between voluntary peak cough flow (PCF), oropharyngeal dysphagia, and pneumonia in patients who were evaluated with videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS).
Methods
Patients who underwent both VFSS and PCF measurement on the same day were enrolled retrospectively (n=821). Pneumonia (n=138) and control (n=683) groups were assigned based on presence of pneumonia within 1 month from the date of VFSS assessment. In addition, sex, age (<65 and ≥65 years), preceding conditions, modified Barthel Index (MBI), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), PCF value (<160, ≥160 and <270, and ≥270 L/min), and presence of aspiration/penetration on VFSS were reviewed.
Results
Pneumonia group was more likely to be male (n=108; 78.3%), ≥65 years (n=121; 87.7%), with neurodegenerative (n=25; 18.1%) or other miscellaneous diseases (n=50; 36.2%), and in poor functional level with lower value of MBI (39.1±26.59). However, MMSE was not significantly different in comparison to that of the control group. The pneumonia group was also more likely to have dysphagia (82.6%) and lower value of PCF (<160 L/min, 70.3%). In multivariable logistic regression analysis, male sex (odd ratio [OR]=6.62; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.70–16.26), other miscellaneous diseases as preceding conditions (OR=2.52; 95% CI, 1.14–5.58), dysphagia (OR=3.82; 95% CI, 1.42–10.23), and PCF <160 L/min (OR=14.34; 95% CI, 1.84–111.60) were factors significantly related with pneumonia.
Conclusion
Impaired swallowing and coughing function showed an independent association with the development of pneumonia. Patients with PCF <160 L/min require more attention with lung care and should be encouraged with voluntary coughing strategy to prevent possible pulmonary complications.

Citations

• Predictors of Pneumonia in Patients With Penetration-Aspirations Detected on Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing
  Raviv Allon, Elad Babayof, Yonatan Lahav, Yael Shapira-Galitz
  Dysphagia.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Sound‐based cough peak flow estimation in patients with neuromuscular disorders
  Bernat Bertran Recasens, Ana Balañá Corberó, Juana María Martínez Llorens, Anna Guillen‐Sola, Montserrat Villatoro Moreno, Greta García Escobar, Yasutaka Umayahara, Zu Soh, Toshio Tsuji, Miguel Ángel Rubio
  Muscle & Nerve.2024; 69(2): 213.     CrossRef
• Differences in cough strength, respiratory function, and physical performance in older adults with and without low swallowing function in the repetitive saliva swallowing test
  Hideo Kaneko, Akari Suzuki, Yoshiharu Nagai, Jun Horie
  Journal of Physical Therapy Science.2024; 36(5): 273.     CrossRef
• Effect of Inspiratory Muscle Training on Cough Strength in Older People With Frailty: A Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial
  Tatsuya Morishita, Shusuke Toyama, Kazuaki Suyama, Fumiya Nagata, Masatoshi Itaki, Takako Tanaka, Shuntaro Sato, Yuji Ishimatsu, Terumitsu Sawai, Ryo Kozu
  Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.2024; 105(11): 2062.     CrossRef
• Effects of Home-Based Daily Respiratory Muscle Training on Swallowing Outcomes in Patients with Chronic Stroke: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
  Mónica Zapata-Soria, Irene Cabrera-Martos, Alejandro Heredia-Ciuró, Esther Prados-Román, Javier Martín-Nuñez, Marie Carmen Valenza
  Journal of Clinical Medicine.2024; 13(18): 5547.     CrossRef
• Flujo máximo de tos y evaluación de la deglución: Una revisión de literatura
  Amalia Nanjarí R , María del Carmen Campos
  Revista Científica Signos Fónicos.2024; 10(1): 7.     CrossRef
• Metabolic and ventilatory changes during postural change from the supine position to the reclining position in bedridden older patients
  Yoji Yamada, Yuji Mitani, Akio Yamamoto, Kazumo Miura, Kanji Yamada, Yukari Oki, Yutaro Oki, Yasumichi Maejima, Yoko Kurumatani, Akira Ishikawa
  Medicine.2023; 102(10): e33250.     CrossRef
• Correlation Between Articulatory Diadochokinetic Parameters and Dysphagia Parameters in Subacute Stroke Patients
  Back Min Oh, Hyun Seok, Sang-Hyun Kim, Seung Yeol Lee, Su Jung Park, Beom Jin Kim, Hyun Jung Kim
  Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine.2023; 47(3): 192.     CrossRef
• Deterioration of Cough, Respiratory, and Vocal Cord Functions in Patients with Multiple System Atrophy
  Takashi Asakawa, Mieko Ogino, Naomi Tominaga, Naoto Ozaki, Jin Kubo, Wataru Kakuda
  Neurology International.2023; 15(4): 1227.     CrossRef

Objective
To determine the effects of an integrated training device for strength and balance on extremity muscle strength, postural balance, and cognition in older adults using a combination with various rehabilitation training games, in which balance, strength, and cognitive training were configured in a single device.
Methods
This prospective study included 20 healthy participants aged 65–85 years. Participants trained for 30 minutes daily, 3 days weekly, for 6 weeks with an integrated training device for strength and balance (SBT-120; Man&Tel Inc., Gumi, Korea). Main outcomes were measured using the Korean Mini-Mental State Examination (K-MMSE), Korean version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (K-MoCA), Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), Functional Reach Test (FRT), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and Manual Muscle Test. Measurements were taken at three time points: T0 (pretreatment), T1 (immediately after treatment), and T2 (4 weeks after treatment).
Results
All 20 patients completed the training, and TUG, FRT, and BBS scores significantly improved at T1 and T2 compared to T0. Mean TUG scores decreased by 0.99±2.00 at T1 and 1.05±1.55 at T2 compared to T0. Mean FRT scores increased by 6.13±4.26 at T1 and 6.75±4.79 at T2 compared to T0. BBS scores increased by 0.60±0.94 at T1 and 0.45±1.15 at T2 compared to T0. Moreover, muscle strength and cognition (K-MMSE and K-MoCA scores) increased after training.
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that an integrated training device for strength and balance can be a safe and useful tool for older adults.

Objective
To investigate whether lumbar lordosis (LL) and lumbar segmental lordosis (LSL) are related to sex, age, low back pain (LBP), and lumbar disc space narrowing (DSN).
Methods
A total of 569 farmers were recruited. In lateral spine radiograph, LL (L1–L5) and LSL (L1, L2, L3, L4, and L5) were measured using Cobb’s method. The differences in LSL values (ΔLSL) according to the presence or absence of a DSN were calculated as LSL_DSN – LSL_noDSN for each DSN level.
Results
In male, the lateral spine radiograph showed significantly greater L4-LSL and L5-LSL and smaller L1-LSL and L2-LSL compared to female. LLs in the 50–59 and ≥60 years age groups were significantly smaller compared to those in the <50 years age group. In subjects with LBP, LL and L4-LSL were significantly smaller than in those without. The ΔLSLs at the disc level with DSN showed the greatest decrease: L1-ΔLSL (Δ-3.99°), L2-ΔLSL (Δ-3.31°), L3-ΔLSL (Δ-2.87°), L4-ΔLSL (Δ-3.31°), and L5-ΔLSL (Δ-4.44°) in L1/2, L2/3, L3/4, L4/5, and L5/S1 DSN, respectively. Conversely, distant ΔLSLs were inversely increased: L1-LSL (Δ0.75°) with L4/5 DSN and L2-LSL (Δ0.94°) with L5/S1 DSN.
Conclusion
Sagittal plane alignment was significantly associated with sex, age, LBP, and DSN. LSLs around the levels of DSN were decreased, and there was compensational increase of LSL distant to the DSN to maintain the overall LL.

Citations

• Minimally invasive biportal endoscopic spinal surgery for central canal stenosis in low-grade degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis: clinical outcomes and implications: a retrospective observational study
  Wongthawat Liawrungrueang, Ho-Jin Lee, Sang Bum Kim, Sang Hyeok Lee, Sang Shin Lee, Ju-Eun Kim
  Asian Spine Journal.2025; 19(2): 242.     CrossRef
• MRI study on the influence of lumbosacral vertebral body and disc factors on lumbar lordosis in children
  Hong Ren, Nan Lin, Peng Zhao, Huizhi Han, Hui Zhao, Lianxiang Xiao, Mimi Tian, Xiangtao Lin
  European Spine Journal.2024; 33(12): 4449.     CrossRef
• Risk Factors for Musculoskeletal Disorders in Korean Farmers: Survey on Occupational Diseases in 2020 and 2022
  Jinheum Kim, Kanwoo Youn, Jinwoo Park
  Healthcare.2024; 12(20): 2026.     CrossRef
• Imaging observation of intervertebral disc degeneration in patients with old thoracolumbar fracture-related kyphotic deformity
  Xi-long Cui, Ao Ding, Wen Yin, Wan-mei Yang, Wei Zhang, Hao Wu, Ji-shi Jiang, Yun-lei Zhai, Zi-kai Hua, Hai-yang Yu
  Scientific Reports.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Association Between Ergonomic Burden Assessed Using 20-Item Agricultural Work-Related Ergonomic Risk Questionnaire and Shoulder, Low Back, and Leg Pain in Korean Farmers
  Sora Baek, Jintae Park, Eun Kyoung Kang, Gowun Kim, Hyocher Kim, Hee-Won Park
  Journal of Agromedicine.2023; 28(3): 532.     CrossRef
• The Relationship Between Low Back Pain and Sagittal Spinal Alignment and Back Muscle Mass in Korean Fishery Workers
  Minjung Kook, Insuh Kim, Jeongyeon Seo, Hyundong Kim, Heesung Nam, Nami Han
  Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine.2023; 47(6): 459.     CrossRef

To determine the effect of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on pulmonary function, respiratory muscle strength (RMS), and functional capacity in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. The PubMed, PEDro, CINAHL, Web of Science, CENTRAL, and EMBASE databases were searched from inception to June 2020. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated patients who underwent cardiac surgery were included in this review. Meta-analysis performed using a random-effects model showed that the mean difference in forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in 1 second, 6-minute walk distance, and RMS was 3.47% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.57 to 6.36), 5.80% (95% CI, 2.03 to 9.56), 78.05 m (95% CI, 60.92 to 95.18), and 4.8 cmH₂O (95% CI, -4.00 to 13.4), respectively. There is strong evidence that IMT improves inspiratory muscle strength, pulmonary function, and functional capacity, and reduces the length of hospital stay in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

Citations

• The Effects of Pursed Lip Breathing Exercises on Patients' Post‐Bronchoscopy Recovery Parameters: A Nurse‐Led Quasi‐Experimental Study
  Rasha Abdulhalim Alqadi, Azza Ibrahim Abdelkader Habiba, Hanaa Hamad Mohamed El Sayed Akl, Engy AbdelRhman Khamis, Daniel Joseph E. Berdida
  Nursing & Health Sciences.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Can resistance prehabilitation training bring additional benefits in valvular cardiac surgery? protocol for a randomized controlled trial
  Jorge Montero-Cámara, Francisco José Ferrer-Sargues, María José Segrera Rovira, Adrián Sarria Cabello, David Cuesta Peredo, Juan Antonio Margarit Calabuig, Noemí Valtueña-Gimeno, María Luz Sánchez-Sánchez, Robert Jeenchen Chen
  PLOS ONE.2024; 19(5): e0303163.     CrossRef
• Effectiveness of improving coordination abilities after cardiac surgery: a review
  Natalya V. Arkhipova, Svetlana A. Pomeshkina, Evgeniy V. Bykov
  Bulletin of Rehabilitation Medicine.2024; 23(3): 52.     CrossRef
• Inspiratory Muscle Training in Phase 1 and 2 Postoperative Cardiac Rehabilitation Following Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery: Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis
  Clênia Oliveira Araújo, Carla Cristina Araújo Alves, Francisco R A dos Santos, Lawrence P Cahalin, Graziella França Bernardelli Cipriano, Gerson Cipriano
  Physical Therapy.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Effect of Inspiratory Muscle Training on Outcomes After Cardiac Surgery
  Linqi Fang, Anqi Cheng, Zhaohua Zhu, Mengming Shao, Guoai Wang
  Journal of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation and Prevention.2024; 44(5): 324.     CrossRef
• Effects of preoperative respiratory muscle training for improvement of postoperative health related quality of life in mitral valve replacement patients
  Umama Umar, Ahad Hussain, Komal Tariq
  Physiotherapy Research International.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Benefits from Implementing Low- to High-Intensity Inspiratory Muscle Training in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery: A Systematic Review
  Aphrodite Evangelodimou, Irini Patsaki, Alexandros Andrikopoulos, Foteini Chatzivasiloglou, Stavros Dimopoulos
  Journal of Cardiovascular Development and Disease.2024; 11(12): 380.     CrossRef
• The impact of threshold-loaded inspiratory muscle training and respiratory biofeedback on preserving inspiratory muscle strength and vital capacity after CABG: a randomized clinical trial
  Bahareh Mehregan-Far
  American Journal of Cardiovascular Disease.2024; 14(6): 375.     CrossRef
• Distinguishing science from pseudoscience in commercial respiratory interventions: an evidence-based guide for health and exercise professionals
  Camilla R. Illidi, Lee M. Romer, Michael A. Johnson, Neil C. Williams, Harry B. Rossiter, Richard Casaburi, Nicholas B. Tiller
  European Journal of Applied Physiology.2023; 123(8): 1599.     CrossRef
• Inspiratory Muscle and Functional Performance of Patients Entering Cardiac Rehabilitation after Cardiac Valve Replacement
  Sabine Gempel, Meryl Cohen, Eryn Milian, Melany Vidret, Andrew Smith, Ian Jones, Yessenia Orozco, Neva Kirk-Sanchez, Lawrence P. Cahalin
  Journal of Cardiovascular Development and Disease.2023; 10(4): 142.     CrossRef
• Comparison of Effects of Liuzijue Exercise and Conventional Respiratory Training on Patients after Cardiac Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
  Qiao-li Zhang, Min Ge, Cheng Chen, Fu-dong Fan, Yan Jin, Ning Zhang, Lei Wang
  Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine.2023; 29(7): 579.     CrossRef
• Inspiratory muscle training to reduce risk of pulmonary complications after coronary artery bypass grafting: a systematic review and meta-analysis
  Yuping Xiang, Qin Zhao, Tinahui Luo, Ling Zeng
  Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine.2023;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Impact of cardiac rehabilitation on pre- and post-operative transcatheter aortic valve replacement prognoses
  Jieru Zou, Jie Yuan, Jingjin Liu, Qingshan Geng
  Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine.2023;[Epub]     CrossRef
• The Effects of Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT) on Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
  Sisi Zhang, Bo Li, Xiaoping Meng, Houjuan Zuo, Dayi Hu
  Reviews in Cardiovascular Medicine.2023;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Resistance exercise for cardiac rehabilitation
  Danielle L. Kirkman, Duck-chul Lee, Salvatore Carbone
  Progress in Cardiovascular Diseases.2022; 70: 66.     CrossRef
• Respiratory Muscle Strength in Patients with Coronary Heart Disease and Different Musculoskeletal Disorders
  E. D. Bazdyrev, N. A. Terentyeva, N. A. Galimova, K. E. Krivoshapova, O. L. Barbarash
  Rational Pharmacotherapy in Cardiology.2022; 18(4): 393.     CrossRef

Objective
To investigate the combined effect of extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) and integrated neuromuscular inhibition (INI) on myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius.
Methods
Sixty subjects aged 18–24 years old with active myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius were studied. Participants were assigned randomly to either group A who received ESWT one session/week, group B who received INI three sessions/week, or group C who received ESWT in addition to INI. All groups completed 4 weeks of intervention. The following main outcome measures were evaluated at baseline and after 4 weeks of intervention: pain intensity, functional disability, pressure pain threshold (PPT), sympathetic skin response (SSR), and neuromuscular junction response (NMJR).
Results
Within-group analysis revealed a significant decline in visual analog scale (VAS), Arabic neck disability index (ANDI), and NMJR and incline in PPT and SSR latency post-intervention (p<0.001). Multiple comparison analysis showed a substantial difference between the groups, while the major changes favored group C (p<0.05).
Conclusion
Combined treatment with ESWT and INI for treating myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius is more effective than using only one of the two approaches in terms of clinical, functional, and neurophysiological aspects.

Citations

• Effect of integrated neuromuscular inhibition technique on subjects with neck pain and forward head posture: a randomized controlled trial
  Rania Reffat Ali, Somaya Nady Mohamed Elsayed, Ragia Mohamed Kamel, Ebtisam Mohamed Fahmy, Hend Ahmed Hamdy
  Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy.2025; : 1.     CrossRef
• Effect of Extracorporeal Shock Wave on Upper Trapezius Trigger Points in Patients With Cervicogenic Headache
  Radwa F. Hammam, Ahmed M. Alshimy, Omar M. Elabd, Aliaa M. Elabd
  American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation.2024; 103(11): 1000.     CrossRef
• Effect of ischemic compressions versus extracorporeal shockwave therapy on myofascial trigger points: A protocol of a randomized controlled trial
  Melissa Nahomi Kuroda, Guilherme Thomaz de Aquino Nava, Caroline Baldini Prudencio, Daiane Affonso Paulo, Isadora Peixouto, Maiki Yoshi Moroshima, Mariana de Almeida Lourenço, Caroline Nogueira da Silva, Angélica Mércia Pascon Barbosa, Cristiane Rodrigues
  PLOS ONE.2023; 18(3): e0283337.     CrossRef
• Water therapies (hydrotherapy, balneotherapy or aqua therapy) for patients with cancer: a systematic review
  Maren Reger, Sabine Kutschan, Maren Freuding, Thorsten Schmidt, Lena Josfeld, Jutta Huebner
  Journal of Cancer Research and Clinical Oncology.2022; 148(6): 1277.     CrossRef
• Does shockwave therapy have a role on trigger thumb?—a single-case design
  Pankaj Verma, Deepak Kumar Pradhan, Sandeep Singh
  Bulletin of Faculty of Physical Therapy.2022;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Immediate effect of shock wave versus muscle energy technique in cases of quadratus lumborum myofascial pain
  Hessa Al Shehhi, Mouza Lootah, Ibrahim Moustafa, Tamer Shousha
  Fizjoterapia Polska.2022; 22(4): 148.     CrossRef
• Usefulness of Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy on Myofascial Pain Syndrome
  Chang Han Lee, Shi-Uk Lee
  Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine.2021; 45(4): 261.     CrossRef

Objective
To examine whether patients who participated in a cardiac rehabilitation (CR) program after hospitalization for acute coronary syndrome maintained cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) in the community.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective study including 78 patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention or coronary artery bypass graft surgery at our hospital’s cardiovascular center and participated in a CR program and a 5-year follow-up evaluation. Patients were divided into a center-based CR (CBCR) group, participating in an electrocardiography-monitored exercise training in a hospital setting, and a home-based CR (HBCR) group, receiving aerobic exercise training and performed self-exercise at home.
Results
No significant differences were found between groups (p>0.05), except the proportion of non-smokers (CBCR 59.5% vs. HBCR 31.7%; p=0.01). In both groups, the maximal oxygen consumption (VO_2max) increased significantly during the first 12 weeks of follow-up and remained at a steady state for the first year, but it decreased after the 1-year follow-up. Particularly, VO_2max at 5 years decreased below the baseline value in the HBCR group. In the low CRF group, the CRF level significantly improved at 12 weeks, peaked at 1 year, and was still significantly different from the baseline value after 5 years. The high CRF group did not show any significant increase over time relative to the baseline value, but most patients in the high CRF group maintained relatively appropriate CRF levels after 5 years.
Conclusion
Continuous support should be provided to patients to maintain optimal CRF levels after completing a CR program.

Citations

• Change in exercise capacity, physical activity and motivation for physical activity at 12 months after a cardiac rehabilitation program in coronary heart disease patients: a prospective, monocentric and observational study
  Paul Da Ros Vettoretto, Anne-Armelle Bouffart, Youna Gourronc, Anne-Charlotte Baron, Marie Gaume, Florian Congnard, Bénédicte Noury-Desvaux, Pierre-Yves de Müllenheim
  PeerJ.2025; 13: e18885.     CrossRef
• The Accessibility and Effect of Cardiac Rehabilitation in COVID-19 Pandemic Era
  Chul Kim, Jun Hyeong Song, Seung Hyoun Kim
  Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine.2024; 48(4): 249.     CrossRef
• The Effect of Home-Based Cardiac Rehabilitation on Cardiovascular Risk Factors Management
  Chul Kim, Seok Hyeon Lee
  Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine.2023; 47(4): 272.     CrossRef
• Fact Sheet on Cardiac Rehabilitation for Cardiovascular Disease in South Korea
  Ki-Hong Kim, Jae-Young Han
  Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine.2023; 47(5): 318.     CrossRef

Objective
To investigate the correlation between videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) and radionuclide salivagram findings in chronic brain-injured patients with dysphagia.
Methods
Medical records of chronic brain-injured patients who underwent radionuclide salivagram and VFSS were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into two groups according to salivagram findings. Differences in patient characteristics and clinical factors, including Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Modified Barthel Index (MBI), Functional Ambulatory Category (FAC), feeding method, tracheostomy state, and VFSS findings between the two groups were investigated.
Results
A total of 124 patients were included in this study. There were no significant differences in MMSE, MBI, FAC, feeding method, and presence of tracheostomy between the two groups. However, the incidence of aspiration pneumonia history was significantly higher in the positive salivagram group. The Functional Dysphagia Scale (FDS) was significantly associated with positive salivagram findings, especially in the pharyngeal phase. A multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that laryngeal elevation and epiglottic closure was statistically significant FDS parameter in predicting salivary aspiration on a salivagram (odds ratio=1.100; 95% confidence interval, 1.017–1.190; p=0.018). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of FDS in the pharyngeal phase showed that an optimum sensitivity and specificity of 55.1% and 65.4%, respectively, when the cut-off value was 39.
Conclusion
In chronic brain-injured patients, inappropriate laryngeal elevation and epiglottic closure is predictive variable for salivary aspiration. Therefore, performing a radionuclide salivagram in patients with FDS of 39 or less in the pharyngeal phase for prevents aspiration pneumonia from salivary aspiration.

Citations

• Correlation Between Clinical Characteristics and Radionuclide Salivagram Findings in Infants With Congenital Laryngeal Developmental Anomalies
  Yun Liu, Xue Wang, Li-bo Wang, Xin-rong Sun
  Journal of Voice.2023;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Understanding the Drooling Evaluation
  Kyoung-chul Min, Sang-min Seo, Hee-soon Woo
  Journal of the Korean Dysphagia Society.2022; 12(2): 85.     CrossRef

Objective
To identify the variables of videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) that are useful for predicting the risk of aspiration pneumonia in elderly patients with dysphagia.
Methods
A total of 251 patients (aged 65 years or more) were included and divided into a pneumonia group (n=133) and a non-pneumonia group (n=118). The pneumonia group included patients who had been diagnosed with aspiration pneumonia, and individuals in the non-pneumonia group did not have pneumonia but were referred for VFSS. The medical records and results of VFSS were reviewed and compared between the groups retrospectively.
Results
The pneumonia group exhibited a male preponderance and a higher 8-point Penetration-Aspiration Scale (8PPAS) score. The mean values of 8PPAS score for swallowing thick liquid and rice porridge was significantly higher in the pneumonia group. The pharyngeal delay time (PDT) and pharyngeal transit time (PTT) were significantly longer in the pneumonia group. The amounts of vallecular and pyriform sinus residue were increased in the pneumonia group. The delay in swallowing reflex and the decrease in laryngeal elevation were more frequently observed in the pneumonia group. Among those variables, PDT and PTT were identified as significant predictors of aspiration pneumonia based on logistic regression analysis.
Conclusion
The present study delineated the findings of VFSS, suggesting an increased risk of aspiration pneumonia in elderly patients with dysphagia. The results demonstrate that prolonged PDT and PTT are significant predictors of aspiration pneumonia.

Citations

• Association Between Masticatory Difficulty and Chronic Cough in a Korean Population
  Chang Wan Kim, Tae Sic Lee, Chun Sung Byun, Yon Chul Park
  International Dental Journal.2025; 75(2): 496.     CrossRef
• Research on Intelligent Diagnosis Method of Swallowing Signal Based on Complex Electrical Impedance Myography
  Xu Chu, Shaoshuai Yu, Fu Zhang, Yuxiang Yang, Letian Fu, Qi Liu
  IEEE Sensors Journal.2025; 25(4): 5969.     CrossRef
• The Brain Lesion Affecting Dysphagia in Patient with Supratentorial Stroke
  Jeon-Woong Kang, Seong-Hoon Lim, Dae-Hyun Jang, Min-Wook Kim, Jaewon Kim
  NeuroRehabilitation: An International, Interdisciplinary Journal.2025; 56(3): 340.     CrossRef
• Predictors of Pneumonia in Patients With Penetration-Aspirations Detected on Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing
  Raviv Allon, Elad Babayof, Yonatan Lahav, Yael Shapira-Galitz
  Dysphagia.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Collaboration Between Acute Care Hospitals and Nursing Homes for Dysphagia Management: A Comparative Study of Patients With and Without Pneumonia-Related Hospitalization
  Takafumi Yamano, Shoichi Kimura, Fumitaka Omori, Kaori Wada, Miho Tanaka, Takashi Tsutsumi
  Cureus.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Tongue pressure during swallowing is an independent risk factor for aspiration pneumonia in middle‐aged and older hospitalized patients: An observational study
  Yen‐Chin Chen, En‐Ni Ku, Che‐Wei Lin, Pei‐Fang Tsai, Jiun‐Ling Wang, Yu‐Fen Yen, Nai‐Ying Ko, Wen‐Chieh Ko, Nan‐Yao Lee
  Geriatrics & Gerontology International.2024; 24(S1): 351.     CrossRef
• Swallowing dysfunction between the community-living older adults with and without comorbid conditions using Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROM)
  Himanshu Verma, Sourabh Kumar, Atul Sharma, Roshani Mishra, Banumathy Nagamani
  Geriatric Nursing.2024; 56: 64.     CrossRef
• Contribution of Wireless Wi-Fi Intraoral Cameras to the Assessment of Swallowing Safety and Efficiency
  José Vergara, Anna Miles, Juliana Lopes de Moraes, Carlos Takahiro Chone
  Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research.2024; 67(3): 821.     CrossRef
• Oral and pharyngeal phases of swallowing in removable complete denture wearers
  Marina Rodrigues Montaldi, Cláudia Helena Lovato da Silva, Adriana Barbosa Ribeiro, Camila Borba de Araujo, Caroline Vieira Fortes, Roberto Oliveira Dantas
  RGO - Revista Gaúcha de Odontologia.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Short-term cortical activation changes associated with postural compensation in swallowing
  Kelsey L. Murray, Seng Mun Wong, Erin Kamarunas
  Experimental Brain Research.2024; 242(11): 2623.     CrossRef
• Quantitative prediction of aspiration risk in head and neck cancer patients treated with radiation therapy
  Hannah C. Liu, Casey W. Williamson, Jingjing Zou, Jacob R. Todd, Tyler J. Nelson, Lindsay M. Hill, Kristen E. Linnemeyer, Gerald Henderson, Puja Madgula, Brian Faung, Assuntina G. Sacco, Lucas K. Vitzthum, Philip A. Weissbrod, Liza S. Blumenfeld, Loren K.
  Oral Oncology.2023; 136: 106247.     CrossRef
• Correlation Between Articulatory Diadochokinetic Parameters and Dysphagia Parameters in Subacute Stroke Patients
  Back Min Oh, Hyun Seok, Sang-Hyun Kim, Seung Yeol Lee, Su Jung Park, Beom Jin Kim, Hyun Jung Kim
  Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine.2023; 47(3): 192.     CrossRef
• Effects of Carbonated Thickened Drinks on Pharyngeal Swallowing with a Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing in Older Patients with Oropharyngeal Dysphagia
  Motoyoshi Morishita, Masahiko Okubo, Tatsuro Sekine
  Healthcare.2022; 10(9): 1769.     CrossRef
• Aspiration pneumonia after cerebrovascular stroke: a comparison between patients with and without dysphagia
  N. A. Moulaei, N Ramroodi, S. M. N. A. Tabatabaie, H. A. Danesh, H. A. Khazaie
  Anesteziologie a intenzivní medicína.2022; 33(3-4): 148.     CrossRef

Objective
To investigate differences in the relative sizes of the ankle-stabilizing muscles in individuals with versus without flexible flat feet and to determine predictors of symptom severity.
Methods
This cross-sectional study included 30 patients with symptomatic flexible flat feet and 24 normal controls. The following were evaluated: foot posture index, resting calcaneal stance position angle, radiographic findings (calcaneal pitch, Meary’s angle, talocalcaneal angle, talonavicular coverage angle [TNCA]), foot function index (FFI), and cross-sectional areas (CSA) of the tibialis anterior (TA), tibialis posterior (TP), and peroneus longus (PL) upon ultrasonographic examination. To address morphometric differences among participants, individual muscle measurements were normalized to proportions of total muscle CSA. Between-group differences were evaluated with independent t-tests. Correlations between muscle ratios, radiographic parameters, and FFI scores were investigated. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine which parameters predicted severe symptoms.
Results
The relative size of the TP was significantly greater and those of the TA and PL were significantly smaller in patients with flat feet than in normal controls. Correlations were found among relative muscle CSA ratios, radiographic parameters, and FFI score. Linear regression analysis confirmed that the TNCA and the relative CSA of the PL were independent predictors of symptom severity.
Conclusion
This study found significant differences in the relative CSAs of the ankle muscles in patients with flexible flat feet versus individuals without flat feet; these differences were significantly correlated with anatomic abnormalities. Symptoms were more severe in patients with relatively greater forefoot abduction and relatively smaller PL.

Citations

• Does severity of the flatfoot deformity affect pain and mobility in adolescents with symptomatic flatfoot
  Matthew William, Daniel E. Pereira, Beltran Torres-Izquierdo, Claire Schaibley, Pooya Hosseinzadeh
  Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics B.2025; 34(2): 189.     CrossRef
• 정상발 및 평발 집단의 발목관절 토크 및 만성발목불안정증(CAI)의 특성 차이
  석경 안, 상근 조, 승재 김
  The Korean Journal of Physical Education.2024; 63(5): 339.     CrossRef
• Relation of Flatfoot Severity with Flexibility and Isometric Strength of the Foot and Trunk Extensors in Children
  Min Hwan Kim, Sangha Cha, Jae Eun Choi, Minsoo Jeon, Ja Young Choi, Shin-Seung Yang
  Children.2022; 10(1): 19.     CrossRef
• Effect of Foot Orthoses in Children With Symptomatic Flexible Flatfoot Based on Ultrasonography of the Ankle Invertor and Evertor Muscles
  Dong Joon Cho, So Young Ahn, Soo-Kyung Bok
  Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine.2021; 45(6): 459.     CrossRef
• Biomechanical Evidence From Ultrasonography Supports Rigid Foot Orthoses in Children With Flatfoot
  Joon-Ho Shin
  Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine.2021; 45(6): 411.     CrossRef

Objective
To compare the convenience and effectiveness of the existing lumbosacral orthoses (LSO) (classic LSO and Cybertech) and a newly developed LSO (V-LSO) by analyzing postoperative data.
Methods
This prospective cohort study was performed from May 2019 to November 2019 and enrolled and analyzed 88 patients with degenerative lumbar spine disease scheduled for elective lumbar surgery. Three types of LSO that were provided according to the time of patient registration were applied for 6 weeks. Patients were randomized into the classic LSO group (n=31), Cybertech group (n=26), and V-LSO group (n=31). All patients were assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) preoperatively and underwent plain lumbar radiography (anteroposterior and lateral views) 10 days postoperatively. Lumbar lordosis (LS angle) and frontal imbalance were measured with and without LSO. At the sixth postoperative week, a follow-up assessment with the ODI and orthosis questionnaire was conducted.
Results
No significant differences were found among the three groups in terms of the LS angle, frontal imbalance, ODI, and orthosis questionnaire results. When the change in the LS angle and frontal imbalance toward the reference value was defined as a positive change with and without LSO, the rate of positive change was significantly different in the V-LSO group (LS angle: 41.94% vs. 61.54% vs. 83.87%; p=0.003).
Conclusion
The newly developed LSO showed no difference regarding its effectiveness and compliance when compared with the existing LSO, but it was more effective in correcting lumbar lordosis.

Citations

• Spine Bracing: When to Utilize—A Narrative Review
  John L. Cerillo, Alexander N. Becsey, Chai P. Sanghadia, Kevin T. Root, Brandon Lucke-Wold
  Biomechanics.2023; 3(1): 136.     CrossRef

Objective
To determine the patterns of tracheostomy cuff pressure changes with various air inflation amounts in different types of tracheostomy tubes to obtain basic data for appropriately managing longterm tracheostomy.
Methods
We performed tracheostomy on a 46-year-old male cadaver. Three types of tracheostomy tubes (single-cuffed, double-cuffed, and adjustable flange), divided into 8 different subtypes based on internal tube diameters and cuff diameters, were inserted into the cadaver. Air was inflated into the cuff, and starting with 1 mL air, the cuff pressure was subsequently measured using a manometer.
Results
For the 7.5 mm/14 mm tracheostomy tube, cuff inflation with 3 mL of air yielded a cuff pressure within the recommended range of 20–30 cmH₂O. The 7.5 mm/24 mm tracheostomy tube showed adequate cuff pressure at 5 mL of air inflation. Similar values were observed for the 8.0 mm/16 mm and 8.0 mm/27 mm tubes. Double-cuffed tracheostomy cuff pressures (7.5 mm/20 mm and 8.0 mm/20 mm tubes) at 3 mL air inflation had cuff pressures of 18–20 cmH₂O at both the proximal and distal sites. For the adjustable flange tracheostomy tube, cuff pressure at 6 mL of cuff air inflation was within the recommended range. Maximal cuff pressure was achieved at inflation with almost 14 mL of air, unlike other tube types.
Conclusion
Various types of tracheostomy tubes showed different cuff pressures after inflation. These values might aid in developing guidelines For patients who undergo tracheostomy and are discharged home without cuff pressure manometers, this standard might be helpful to develop guidelines.

Citations

• Impact of Low‐Volume, Low‐Pressure Tracheostomy Cuffs on Acute Mucosal Injury in Swine
  Alexandra J. Berges, Ioan A. Lina, Rafael Ospino, Hsiu‐Wen Tsai, Dacheng Ding, Jessica M. Izzi, Alexander T. Hillel
  Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery.2022; 167(4): 716.     CrossRef

Objective
To verify the pharyngeal width at rest as a measurement that could be used to assess changes in the degree of dysphagia over time in stroke patients.
Methods
In a cohort of stroke patients, we performed serial measurements of the pharyngeal width at the midpoints of the second (C2) and third (C3) cervical vertebral bodies using lateral neck X-rays while the patients were at rest. The JOSCYL width, a parameter named after the first initial of each developers’ surname and defined as the average value of the upper and lower pharyngeal widths, was used to formulate the JOSCYL scale, which was calculated as the JOSCYL width × 100/neck circumference. All patients also underwent serial videofluoroscopic swallowing studies (VFSSs). The Spearman correlation analysis was used to detect correlations between the serial VFSS results, JOSCYL widths, and JOSCYL scale values.
Results
Over time, we observed significant positive and negative correlations of change in the JOSCYL width and scale with changes in the Penetration-Aspiration Scale and the Dysphagia Outcome and Severity Scale scores, respectively.
Conclusion
The JOSCYL width and JOSCYL scale clearly reflected changes in dysphagia in stroke patients over time. These parameters may provide an easier method for evaluating whether post-stroke dysphagia has been alleviated.

Citations

• Pharyngeal Structure and Dysphagia in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease and Related Disorders
  Eunjee Lee, Gyu Jin Kim, Hyewon Ryu, Kwang-Ik Jung, Woo-Kyoung Yoo, Suk Hoon Ohn
  Dysphagia.2024; 39(3): 468.     CrossRef
• Prediction of Pharyngeal 3D Volume Using 2D Lateral Area Measurements During Swallowing
  Howell Henrian G. Bayona, Yoko Inamoto, Eichii Saitoh, Keiko Aihara, Masanao Kobayashi, Yohei Otaka
  Dysphagia.2024; 39(5): 783.     CrossRef
• The influence of pharyngeal width on post-stroke laryngeal aspiration
  Wonil Kang, Jane Chung, Jeongeun Lee, Kwang-Ik Jung, Woo-Kyoung Yoo, Suk Hoon Ohn
  NeuroRehabilitation.2021; 49(3): 435.     CrossRef

Freeman-Sheldon syndrome (FSS) is a rare distal arthrogryposis syndrome. There are few reports on the respiratory insufficiency of FSS. Additionally, there is no detailed information on pulmonary functional evaluation. A 17-year-old male patient with FSS developed respiratory failure, leading him to be admitted to hospital several times for evaluation and treatment. Of those times he was admitted, two were due to pneumonia. His pulmonary functions were indicative of a restrictive lung disease potentially caused by severe scoliosis. After a non-invasive ventilatorwas applied correctly to the patient, pulmonary hypertension was normalized. His pulmonary function has been maintained for 13 years. Since receiving proper respiratory care, which includes assisted coughing methods, the patient has not developed pneumonia. It is important to properly evaluate the pulmonary function of patients who have FSS and scoliosis to eliminate the risk of long-term respiratory complications.

Citations

• Letter: Precise Pulmonary Function Evaluation and Management of a Patient With Freeman-Sheldon Syndrome Associated With Recurrent Pneumonia and Chronic Respiratory Insufficiency (Ann Rehabil Med 2020;44:165-70)
  Mikaela I. Poling, Craig R. Dufresne
  Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine.2020; 44(5): 409.     CrossRef
• Response: Precise Pulmonary Function Evaluation and Management of a Patient With Freeman-Sheldon Syndrome Associated With Recurrent Pneumonia and Chronic Respiratory Insufficiency (Ann Rehabil Med 2020;44:165-70)
  Jihyun Park, Seong-Woong Kang, Won Ah Choi, Yewon Lee, Han Eol Cho
  Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine.2020; 44(5): 411.     CrossRef

Objective
To investigate the differences of spinal curvature, thoracic sagittal mobility, and respiratory strength between patients with chronic neck pain (CNP) and people without cervical pain, and to determine the correlation between respiratory strength and thoracic mobility in CNP patients.
Methods
A total of 78 participants were finally included in this study, of whom 30 had no cervical pain and 48 had CNP. The Neck Disability Index (NDI), cervical lordotic curvature, thoracic kyphotic curvature, thoracic sagittal range of motion (ROM), maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), and maximal expiratory pressure (MEP) were measured and analyzed.
Results
In males, thoracic sagittal ROM_MEP-MIP and MEP showed a significant difference between the no cervical pain group and the CNP group. In females, thoracic kyphotic curvature, thoracic sagittal ROM_MEP-MIP, MIP, and MEP were significantly different between the no cervical pain group and the CNP group. Thoracic kyphotic curvature was significantly correlated with MEP and MIP in all population groups, and significantly correlated with NDI in the female group. Thoracic sagittal ROM_MEP-MIP had a significant linear relationship with NDI, MEP, and MIP in all population groups.
Conclusion
The thoracic mobility during forced respiration was reduced in patients with CNP and was correlated with respiratory strength. Changes in the biomechanics of the cervicothoracic spine and rib cage due to CNP may contribute to impairment of respiratory strength.

Citations

• Optimal target localization for botulinum toxin A in treating splenius muscles dystonia based on the distribution of intramuscular nerves and spindles
  Xiaojiao He, Sifeng Wen, Xuan Liu, Yutong Li, Shengbo Yang
  Anatomical Science International.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Differences of diaphragmatic muscle contraction between female patients with chronic neck pain and asymptomatic controls: A case-control study based on ultrasonography
  Gamze Yalcinkaya Colak, Seher Ozyurek, Yesim Salik Sengul, Orhan Kalemci
  Musculoskeletal Science and Practice.2024; 69: 102894.     CrossRef
• Effect of Chronic Non-specific Neck Pain on Aerobic Capacity in Females
  Özlem MENEVŞE, Filiz ALTUĞ, Orçin TELLİ ATALAY
  Bezmialem Science.2024; 12(1): 55.     CrossRef
• Respiratory dysfunction in patients with chronic neck pain: systematic review and meta-analysis
  Ibai López-de-Uralde-Villanueva, Tamara del Corral, Rodrigo Salvador-Sánchez, Santiago Angulo-Díaz-Parreño, José-Javier López-Marcos, Gustavo Plaza-Manzano
  Disability and Rehabilitation.2023; 45(15): 2422.     CrossRef
• Respiratory Function Analysis in Patients with Chronic Pain: An Umbrella Review and Meta-Analysis of Pooled Findings
  Ferran Cuenca-Martínez, Núria Sempere-Rubio, Elena Muñoz-Gómez, Sara Mollà-Casanova, Enrique Carrasco-González, Francisco M. Martínez-Arnau
  Healthcare.2023; 11(9): 1358.     CrossRef
• Impact of Indoor Air Quality and Breathing on Back and Neck Pain: A Systematic Review
  Ezequiel D Gherscovici, John M Mayer
  Cureus.2023;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Association between Smartphone Addiction and Breathing Pattern in Sedentary Young College-Going Students – A Cross-Sectional Study
  IK Shah, A Kumar, S Rajasekar, AA Pathak, N Suvarna, K Gopal, R Muthukrishnan
  Nigerian Journal of Clinical Practice.2023; 26(11): 1637.     CrossRef
• Chronic neck pain and respiratory dysfunction: a review paper
  Shruti P. Nair, Chaitrali S. Panchabhai, Vrushali Panhale
  Bulletin of Faculty of Physical Therapy.2022;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Effects of breathing re-education on endurance, strength of deep neck flexors and pulmonary function in patients with chronic neck pain: A randomised controlled trial
  Sahreen Anwar, Syed A. Arsalan, Hamayun Zafar, Ashfaq Ahmed, Syed A. Gillani, Asif Hanif
  South African Journal of Physiotherapy.2022;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Pulmonary Functions in Patients With Chronic Neck Pain: A Case-Control Study
  Figen Dağ, Serkan Taş, Özlem Bölgen Çimen
  Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics.2022; 45(4): 290.     CrossRef
• A Comparative Study of a Novel Postural Garment Versus Exercise for Women with Nonspecific Cervical Pain
  Merce Avellanet, Anna Boada-Pladellorens, Esther Pages, Aleix Dorca, Betlem Sabria, Michael Pfeifer, Elvira Gea
  Spine.2021; 46(22): 1517.     CrossRef
• Neck Stabilization Exercises Enhance Respiratory Function after Stroke: Respiratory Function Index Change Trajectory Analyzed Using a Hierarchical Linear Model
  So-Hyun Kim, Sung-Hyoun Cho
  Medicina.2021; 57(12): 1312.     CrossRef