Objective
To investigate the impact of self-efficacy in using one’s upper limbs on the overall wellbeing of stroke patients, we developed the Korean version of the Confidence of Arm and Hand Movement (K-CAHM) scale by modifying the original CAHM to suit Korean cultural conditions.
Methods
This study was conducted from May 2022 to June 2023 at a rehabilitation hospital with 54 stroke patients. Participants with sufficient cognitive and verbal abilities were included, while those with severe comorbidities were excluded. For the translation and cultural adaptation of CAHM into Korean, permission was obtained from the original author. Two translators independently translated the questionnaire, followed by a consensus discussion and expert review to create K-CAHM version 1.0. After back-translation and further review, the final Korean version was completed. Reliability and validity were assessed using Cronbach’s alpha, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), exploratory factor analysis, Bland–Altman analysis, and Pearson correlation.
Results
The K-CAHM showed good reliability (Cronbach’s alpha=0.97; ICC=0.895). Bland–Altman plot analysis showed good agreement, indicating test-retest reliability. Moreover, K-CAHM showed good concurrent validity, demonstrated by its correlation with three domains of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health: Fugl-Meyer assessment, the Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test, personal hygiene and bathing in the modified Barthel Index, and hand and stroke recovery domain in the Stroke Impact Scale.
Conclusion
The newly developed K-CAHM could complement other outcome measures, facilitating patient-centered rehabilitation in the Korean context.

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 implement early rehabilitation interventions by physical therapists is recommended. However, the effectiveness of early rehabilitation for severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients in the prevention of post-intensive care syndrome (PICS) is unclear. We analyzed a multicenter prospective observational study (Post-Intensive Care outcomeS in patients with COronaVIrus Disease 2019) to examine the association between early rehabilitation interventions and PICS physical impairment.
Methods
An analysis was performed on COVID-19 patients who were admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) between March 2020 and March 2021, and required mechanical ventilation. The primary outcome was the incidence of PICS physical impairment (Barthel Index≤90) after one year. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the association between early rehabilitation interventions and PICS physical impairment by adjusting ICU mobility scale (IMS) during seven-day following ICU admission, and clinically relevant risk factors.
Results
The analysis included 259 patients, 54 of whom developed PICS physical impairment one year later. In 81 patients, physical therapists intervened within seven days of ICU admission. There was no significant difference in mean IMS by day seven of admission between the early and non-early rehabilitation patients (0.70 and 0.61, respectively). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that early rehabilitation interventions were significantly associated with a low incidence of PICS physical impairment (odds ratio, 0.294; 95% confidence interval, 0.123–0.706; p=0.006).
Conclusion
Early rehabilitation interventions by physical therapists were an independent factor associated with the decreased development of PICS physical impairment at one year, even though early rehabilitation had no significant effect on IMS.

This systematic review aims to determine the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions for the management of spasticity in people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). A comprehensive literature search in health science databases (MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, CINHAL) was performed to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (up to April 2024). Manual searching in journals and screening of the reference lists of identified studies were conducted. Two authors independently selected the studies, assessed the methodological quality, and summarized the evidence. A meta-analysis was not feasible due to the methodological, clinical, and statistical diversity of the included studies. Overall, 32 RCTs (n=1,481 participants) investigated various types of non-pharmacological interventions including: physical activity, transcranial magnetic stimulation (intermittent theta burst stimulation [iTBS], repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation [rTMS]), electromagnetic therapy, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, vibration therapy, shock wave therapy, self-management educational programs, and acupuncture. All studies scored ‘low’ on the methodological quality assessment, implying a high risk of bias. The findings suggest ‘moderate to low certainty’ evidence for physical activity programs used in isolation or combination with other interventions (pharmacological or non-pharmacological), and for iTBS/rTMS with or without adjuvant exercise therapy in improving spasticity in adults with MS. There is ‘very low certainty’ evidence supporting the use of other modalities for treating spasticity in this population. Despite a wide range of non-pharmacological interventions used for the management of spasticity in pwMS, there is a lack of conclusive evidence for many. More robust trials with larger sample sizes and longer-term follow-ups are needed to build evidence for these interventions.

Objective
To distinguish infarct location and type with the utmost precision using the advantages of the Swin UNEt TRansformers (Swin UNETR) architecture.
Methods
The research employed a two-phase training approach. In the first phase, the Swin UNETR model was trained using the Ischemic Stroke Lesion Segmentation Challenge (ISLES) 2022 dataset, which included cases of acute and subacute infarcts. The second phase involved training with data from 309 patients. The 110 categories result from classifying infarcts based on 22 specific brain regions. Each region is divided into right and left sides, and each side includes four types of infarcts (acute, acute lacunar, subacute, subacute lacunar). The unique architecture of Swin UNETR, integrating elements of both the transformer and u-net designs with a hierarchical transformer computed with shifted windows, played a crucial role in the study.
Results
During Swin UNETR training with the ISLES 2022 dataset, batch loss decreased to 0.8885±0.1897, with training and validation dice scores reaching 0.4224±0.0710 and 0.4827±0.0607, respectively. The optimal model weight had a validation dice score of 0.5747. In the patient data model, batch loss decreased to 0.0565±0.0427, with final training and validation accuracies of 0.9842±0.0005 and 0.9837±0.0010.
Conclusion
The results of this study surpass the accuracy of similar studies, but they involve the issue of overfitting, highlighting the need for future efforts to improve generalizability. Such detailed classifications could significantly aid physicians in diagnosing infarcts in clinical settings.

Objective
To prospectively compare the efficacy of conventional center-based cardiac rehabilitation (CBCR) and home-based cardiac rehabilitation (HBCR) during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
Methods
Ninety Patients were divided into HBCR and CBCR groups based on cardiovascular risk stratification and individual preference. The CBCR group performed supervised in-hospital exercise training 2–3 times/week and subsequent self-exercise at home. The HBCR group performed self-exercise at home after one or two sessions of exercise education. The cardiopulmonary exercise test results at baseline and those at the 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-ups were analyzed as primary outcome.
Results
The peak oxygen consumption (peak VO₂, mL/kg/min) in the CBCR group was 20.1 and 24.0 at baseline and 12 months, respectively, showing significant improvement (p=0.006). In the HBCR group, it only increased from 24.4 to 25.5, showing suboptimal improvement. A significant increase in the Korean activity scale/index was confirmed only in the CBCR group (p=0.04). The cardiovascular outcome did not differ between the two groups, nor did the dropout rate or demographic factors.
Conclusion
During the COVID-19 pandemic, only CBCR was associated with a significant improvement in peak VO₂ and physical activity levels, a finding that differs from those of other studies and seems to be affected by COVID-19. Therefore, in situations where the importance of HBCR is emphasized, it is essential to introduce measures to monitor and enhance exercise adherence among participants.

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

Objective
The purpose of this study was to examine how rehabilitation and patient education for knee osteoarthritis improves health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and to identify factors influencing HRQOL.
Methods
Between May 2020 and March 2022, 30 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee were treated conservatively and rehabilitated with a patient education program. The patient education program was based on the health belief model by Sedlak et al., and patient education using pamphlets was provided during the rehabilitation intervention. The survey items were patient basic information, instrumental activities of daily living (ADL) (FAI), fear of falling (FES), degree of depression (GDS), HRQOL (SF-8), knee function assessment (JOA score), and X-ray classification (K-L classification), and the survey method was a self-administered questionnaire at the start of rehabilitation, 1 month after the intervention, and at the end of the rehabilitation intervention. We examined factors affecting the physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) of HRQOL scores.
Results
JOA score, FES, FAI, GDS, and SF-8 improved significantly (p<0.01). MCS was also negatively correlated with FES and age (r=-0.486, -0.368). Sex was extracted as a factor for PCS as a factor affecting HRQOL (p<0.01). MCS was extracted with FES as a factor (p=0.046).
Conclusion
A rehabilitation intervention incorporating patient education in osteoarthritis of the knee showed improvement in HRQOL and may be useful for improving depression, fear of falling, and instrumental ADL.

Citations

• Effectiveness of 6 weeks individual rehabilitation on the functionality and quality of life in patients with bilateral gonarthrosis
  Amanda Maria Kostro, Anna Kuryliszyn-Moskal, Anna Hryniewicz, Artur Augustynik, Janusz Dzięcioł, Zofia Dzięcioł-Anikiej
  Acta Balneologica.2025; 67(1): 15.     CrossRef

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 establish reference values for the computerized cognitive test and evaluate cognitive function improvements across different age groups, we introduce the computerized Cognitive Function Test program (eCFT), specifically designed for children. We aimed to establish eCFT reference values and assess cognitive function improvements across different age groups.
Methods
We included children aged 3–6 years with confirmed normal cognition based on the Korean Developmental Screening Test for Infants and Children and Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children-II. The eCFT consists of 8 subtests for visual perception, attention, memory, and executive function.
Results
A total of 66 participants (36 males and 30 females) with an average age of 4.4 years participated. The age 6 group consistently outperformed both age group 3 and 4 in terms of correct responses. With regard to the completed stage, the “selective auditory stimulus” test findings were 2.0 and 3.9 for the age 3 and age 6 groups, respectively (p<0.05). The “trail-making” test findings were 1.7, 2.1, 2.6, and 2.8, respectively (between ages 3 and 6, p<0.01; between ages 4 and 6, p<0.05); moreover, the age 5 group surpassed the age 3 group (2.6 and 1.7, respectively, p<0.05).
Conclusion
The eCFT is an easily accessible tool to evaluate cognitive function in young children. We introduce reference values with a cutoff range for preschool-aged children, enabling early intervention for those with cognitive impairment. Given its accessibility and relatively short evaluation time, the eCFT has potential for clinical use.

To synthesise the best available evidence for the effectiveness of interventions delivered in community-based rehabilitation (CBR) centers on physical fitness, for community-dwelling older adults living in Asian countries. This study is a systematic review and meta-analysis. Seven English and two Chinese electronic databases were searched for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental studies that were conducted by centers providing CBR. Independent reviewers screened, quality-appraised and extracted data. The primary outcome was physical fitness measured by validated assessment tools, including the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), gait speed, hand grip strength, Functional Reach Test (FRT), and one-leg standing test. Assessments of activity of daily living and quality of life using tools including the Barthel Index, Short Form (SF)-12, and SF-36 were secondary outcomes. After screening 5,272 studies, 29 studies were included (16 RCTs, 13 quasi-experimental studies) from four countries. Meta-analyses found that CBR programs significantly decreased TUG time (mean difference [MD], -1.89 seconds; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], -2.84 to -0.94; I²=0%; Z=3.90, p<0.0001), improved gait speed (MD, 0.10 m/s; 95% CI, 0.01–0.18; I²=0%; Z=2.26, p=0.02), and increased one-leg standing time (MD, 2.81 seconds; 95% CI, 0.41–5.22; I²=0%; Z=2.29, p=0.02). Handgrip strength and FRT showed no statistically significant improvement in the meta-analyses. CBR may improve aspects of physical fitness for older adults in Asian countries. However, variability in intervention components and measurement tools reduced the ability to pool individual studies. Further trials are required with robust designs including standardised measures of physical fitness.

Objective
To assess, analyse, and infer the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on people living with locomotor disability in North India.
Methods
Patients with locomotor disabilities who met the inclusion criteria received a questionnaire that had already undergone testing and validation. It covered topics highlighting the effect of the pandemic on general health, financial burden, psychological and mental health, social life and behaviour, disability and comorbidity management, transportation, and healthcare accessibility during the pandemic. In order to gauge the pandemic’s effects on the population of people with locomotor disabilities, the answers to the questions were collected and analyzed.
Results
The COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected people living with locomotor disability, ranging from loss of wages and financial crisis to anxiety, depression and lack of sleep. People with disabilities had limited reach to health and community services that were vital for them, including basic life and functional needs, besides risks of mistreatment and other psychological consequences.
Conclusion
This analysis suggests that the root cause of pandemic disparities is the lack of disability-inclusive planning and, more significantly, the pre-existing socioeconomic disparities and challenges that disabled people have been experiencing for a long time. We suggest that unambiguous public health and policy responses should be incorporated, and health, social participation, and socioeconomic disparity causes for disabled people should be addressed in tandem.

Objective
To show the effectiveness of goal-oriented proprioceptive training in subacute stroke for balance, autonomy, and fall risk.
Methods
Out a total of 35 patients, consistent in age (75.31±8.65 years), type of stroke (ischemic, 3 to 11 weeks before), and motor impairment, 18 patients underwent solely proprioceptive rehabilitation, the other 17 dual task exercises. The study assessed autonomy using Barthel Index, fall risk with Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), balance through Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Tinetti test.
Results
After two months, significant improvements were recorded in Barthel Index, BBS (p<0.0001), Tinetti test (p<0.0001 in dual task group, p=0.0029 in single task group), and TUG (p=0.0052 in dual task group, p=0.0020 in single task group) in both groups. Comparing the two groups, dual task group showed a significant difference in Tinetti balance assessment (p=0.0052), between the total score of Tinetti test and TUG in single (p=0.0271), and dual task (p=0.0235). Likewise, Tinetti gait test was significantly related to TUG in single (p=0.0536), and dual task (p=0.0466), while Tinetti balance test to Barthel Index (p=0.0394), BBS (p<0.0001), and TUG in single (p=0.0219), and dual task (p=0.0196). Lastly, there is a positive correlation of the use of aids with BBS (p=0.0074), and total score of Tinetti test (p=0.0160).
Conclusion
In subacute stroke, goal-oriented proprioceptive training improved balance, but only partially autonomy. Furthermore, the use of aids after dual-task exercises improved recovery of balance, but did not reduced falls.

Citations

• A scoping review on the body awareness rehabilitation after stroke: are we aware of what we are unaware?
  Davide Cardile, Viviana Lo Buono, Francesco Corallo, Angelo Quartarone, Rocco Salvatore Calabrò
  Frontiers in Neurology.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Dual tasking as a predictor of falls in post-stroke: A cross-sectional analysis comparing Walking While Talking versus Stops Walking While Talking
  Disha Lamba, Abraham M. Joshua, Vijaya kumar K, Akshatha Nayak, Prasanna Mithra, Rohit Pai, Shivananda Pai, Shyam Krishnan K., Vijayakumar Palaniswamy
  F1000Research.2025; 13: 1395.     CrossRef
• Effects of Unpredictable Perturbation Training on a Split-Belt Treadmill on Physical Performance in Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
  Kap-Soo Han, Myoung-Hwan Ko
  Geriatrics.2025; 10(1): 23.     CrossRef
• Influence of taping on joint proprioception: a systematic review with between and within group meta-analysis
  Shashank Ghai, Ishan Ghai, Susanne Narciss
  BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Application of an Auditory-Based Feedback Distortion to Modify Gait Symmetry in Healthy Individuals
  Le Yu Liu, Samir Sangani, Kara K. Patterson, Joyce Fung, Anouk Lamontagne
  Brain Sciences.2024; 14(8): 798.     CrossRef
• Validez convergente de la escala Tinetti en pacientes con ictus en fase subaguda
  Adrián Arranz–Escudero, Patricia Martín–Casas, Ester Carpio–Calatayud, Ibai López–de–Uralde–Villanueva
  Revista Científica de la Sociedad Española de Enfermería Neurológica.2024; : 500168.     CrossRef
• Time-course for acquiring transfer independence in patients with subacute stroke: a prospective cohort study
  Shin Kitamura, Yohei Otaka, Shintaro Uehara, Yudai Murayama, Kazuki Ushizawa, Yuya Narita, Naho Nakatsukasa, Daisuke Matsuura, Rieko Osu, Kunitsugu Kondo, Sachiko Sakata
  Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine.2024; 56: jrm40055.     CrossRef
• Efficacy and safety of very early rehabilitation for acute ischemic stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis
  Ying Lou, Zhongshuo Liu, Yingxiao Ji, Jinming Cheng, Congying Zhao, Litao Li
  Frontiers in Neurology.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Challenges in Accessing Community-Based Rehabilitation and Long-Term Care for Older Adult Stroke Survivors and Their Caregivers: A Qualitative Study
  Sining Zeng, Min Wu, Ling Xu, Zining Guo, Shufan Chen, Keyu Ling, Haihan Li, Xiaoli Yu, Xiaoping Zhu
  Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare.2024; Volume 17: 4829.     CrossRef
• The Impact of Virtual Reality as a Rehabilitation Method Using TRAVEE System on Functional Outcomes and Disability in Stroke Patients: A Pilot Study
  Claudia-Gabriela Potcovaru, Delia Cinteză, Miruna Ioana Săndulescu, Daniela Poenaru, Ovidiu Chiriac, Cristian Lambru, Alin Moldoveanu, Ana Magdalena Anghel, Mihai Berteanu
  Biomedicines.2024; 12(11): 2450.     CrossRef
• Synergistic effects of combined motor and language interventions on stroke rehabilitation: a holistic approach
  Reihaneh Saber-Moghadam, Afsaneh Zeinalzadeh, Jamshid Jamali, Mohammad Taghi Farzadfard, Davood Sobhani-Rad
  Frontiers in Human Neuroscience.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• The importance of recovering body awareness in post-stroke rehabilitation: insights from clinical case reports
  Davide Cardile, Viviana Lo Buono, Francesco Corallo, Simona Cammaroto, Caterina Formica, Angelo Quartarone, Rocco Salvatore Calabrò
  Frontiers in Neurology.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef

Objective
To examine the association between the mobilization level during intensive care unit (ICU) admission and independence in activity of daily living (ADL), defined as Barthel Index (BI)≥70.
Methods
This was a post-hoc analysis of the EMPICS study involving nine hospitals. Consecutive patients who spend >48 hours in the ICU were eligible for inclusion. Mobilization was performed at each hospital according to the shared protocol and the highest ICU mobility score (IMS) during the ICU stay, baseline characteristics, and BI at hospital discharge. Multiple logistic regression analysis, adjusted for baseline characteristics, was used to deter-mine the association between the highest IMS (using the receiver operating characteristic [ROC]) and ADL.
Results
Of the 203 patients, 143 were assigned to the ADL independence group and 60 to the ADL dependence group. The highest IMS score was significantly higher in the ADL independence group than in the dependence group and was a predictor of ADL independence at hospital discharge (odds ratio, 1.22; 95% confidence interval, 1.07–1.38; adjusted p=0.002). The ROC cutoff value for the highest IMS was 6 (specificity, 0.67; sensitivity, 0.70; area under the curve, 0.69).
Conclusion
These results indicate that, in patients who were in the ICU for more than 48 hours, that patients with good function in the ICU also exhibit good function upon discharge. However, prospective, multicenter trials are needed to confirm this conclusion.

Citations

• Association between changes in disease severity and physical function after surviving a critical illness: A multicentre retrospective observational study
  Keibun Liu, Tomohiro Hamagami, Naoki Sugiyasu, Kenji Fujizuka, Akira Kawauchi, Sou Yamada, Takayuki Ogura, Naoko Hirata, Takafumi Tani, Shunsuke Taito, Kohei Ota, David McWilliams, Hajime Katsukawa, Toru Kotani
  Australian Critical Care.2024; 37(6): 889.     CrossRef

Objective
To examine the impact of telerehabilitation training on exercise capacity, lung function, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in comparison to no rehabilitation for post-COVID-19 symptoms in adult females.
Methods
A randomized controlled trial of 48 females after mild to moderate COVID-19 survival were equally and randomly assigned to one of two groups: intervention group or control group. Three sessions per week for 6 weeks of a telerehabilitation program provided via a smartphone to the intervention group. Spirometry was used to quantify lung function, a 6-minute walk test (6MWT) measured in meters to measure exercise capacity, and the Short Form Health Survey-36 was used to assess HRQOL.
Results
After treatment, there was no statistically significant difference in forced vital capacity (FVC) or forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV₁) between groups (p>0.05), but the 6MWT of the intervention group increased significantly more than that of the control group (p=0.001). The percent of change in 6MWT for the intervention group and control group was 14.22% and 4.21%, respectively. After therapy, the intervention group’s HRQOL significantly improved when compared to the control group’s (p=0.001).
Conclusion
This study showed that a telerehabilitation programs improved exercise capacity and HRQOL in young females post-COVID-19 compared to no rehabilitation.

Citations

• Physical Therapy Outcome Measures Used in Persons With Long Covid: A Systematic Review of Interventional Studies Up to 1-Year Postglobal Health Emergency
  Andrea Lopes Sauers, Liana Johnson, Marissa Mortensen, Laura Bianca Dorásio da Silva, Luciana Angélica da Silva de Jesus, Jaime González, Cristino Oliveira
  Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy Journal.2025; 36(2): 105.     CrossRef
• Efficacy of Telerehabilitation Protocols for Improving Functionality in Post-COVID-19 Patients
  Jose Luis Estela-Zape, Valeria Sanclemente-Cardoza, Leidy Tatiana Ordoñez-Mora
  Life.2025; 15(1): 44.     CrossRef
• Practical Recommendations for Exercise Training in Patients with Long COVID with or without Post-exertional Malaise: A Best Practice Proposal
  Rainer Gloeckl, Ralf H. Zwick, Ulrich Fürlinger, Tessa Schneeberger, Daniela Leitl, Inga Jarosch, Uta Behrends, Carmen Scheibenbogen, Andreas Rembert Koczulla
  Sports Medicine - Open.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Effectiveness of telerehabilitation in patients with post-COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
  Jiang Yang, Huiru Li, Hulei Zhao, Yang Xie, Jiansheng Li, Minghang Wang
  BMJ Open.2024; 14(7): e074325.     CrossRef
• Effectiveness of telerehabilitation versus face-to-face pulmonary rehabilitation on physical function and quality of life in people with post COVID-19 condition: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
  Oliver MARTÍNEZ-POZAS, Camilo CORBELLINI, Juan N. CUENCA-ZALDÍVAR, Érika MELÉNDEZ-OLIVA, Pierluigi SINATTI, Eleuterio A. SÁNCHEZ ROMERO
  European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) poses a significant health challenge globally, including in Korea, due to its status as a leading cause of death and its impact on cardiopulmonary function. Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a well-established program that not only aids in restoring cardiopulmonary function, but also improves physical and social conditions. The benefits of CR are widely recognized, and it is implemented globally. While the effectiveness of CR has been proven in Korea, it is underutilized. This fact sheet summarizes the current status of CR in Korea, including the prevalence of CVD, the clinical practice guidelines for CR programs, and the challenges of implementing CR in Korea.

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
• Effectiveness of Home-Based Cardiac Rehabilitation with Optimized Exercise Prescriptions Using a Mobile Healthcare App in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Randomized Controlled Trial
  Hyun-Seok Jo, Hyeong-Min Kim, Chae-Hyun Go, Hae-Young Yu, Hyeng-Kyu Park, Jae-Young Han
  Life.2024; 14(9): 1122.     CrossRef
• Cardiac rehabilitation for patients with coronary artery disease
  Jang Woo Lee
  Journal of the Korean Medical Association.2024; 67(9): 566.     CrossRef

Objective
To translate and culturally adapt the Information Needs in Cardiac Rehabilitation (INCR) questionnaire into Korean and perform psychometric validation.
Methods
The original English version of the INCR, in which patients are asked to rate the importance of 55 topics, was translated into Korean (INCR-K) and culturally adapted. The INCR-K was tested on 101 cardiac rehabilitation (CR) participants at Kangwon National University Hospital and Seoul National University Bundang Hospital in Korea. Structural validity was assessed using principal component analysis, and Cronbach’s alpha of the areas was computed. Criterion validity was assessed by comparing information needs according to CR duration and knowledge sufficiency according to receipt of education. Half of the participants were randomly selected for 1 month of re-testing to assess their responsiveness.
Results
Following cognitive debriefing, the number of items was reduced to 41 and ratings were added to assess participants’ sufficient knowledge of each item. The INCR-K structure comprised eight areas, each with sufficient internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha>0.7). Criterion validity was supported by significant differences in mean INCR-K scores based on CR duration and knowledge sufficiency ratings according to receipt of education (p<0.05). Information needs and knowledge sufficiency ratings increased after 1 month of CR, thus supporting responsiveness (p<0.05).
Conclusion
The INCR-K demonstrated adequate face, content, cross-cultural, structural, and criterion validities, internal consistency, and responsiveness. Information needs changed with CR, such that multiple assessments of information needs may be warranted as rehabilitation progresses to facilitate patient-centered education.

Post-stroke spastic movement disorder (PS-SMD) develops in up to 40% of stroke survivors after a first ever stroke within the first year. Chronic PS-SMD is often associated with severe disabilities and complications, emphasizing the importance of its early recognition and early adequate management. Extensive research has aimed to accurately predict and sensitively detect a PS-SMD. Symptomatic therapies include conventional rehabilitation and local intramuscular injections of botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A). The latter is widely used, but primarily in the chronic phase of stroke. However, recent studies have shown the safety and efficacy of BoNT-A therapy even in the acute phase and early sub-acute phase after stroke, i.e., within three months post-stroke, leading to an improved long-term outcome in stroke rehabilitation. Local BoNT-A injections evolve as the primary approach in focal, multifocal, and segmental chronic or acute/subacute PS-SMD. Patients at high risk for or manifest PS-SMD should be identified by an early spasticity risk assessment. By doing so, PS-SMD can be integral part of the patient-centered goal-setting process of a multiprofessional spasticity-experienced team. The benefit of an early PS-SMD treatment by BoNT-A should predominate putative degenerative muscle changes due to long-term BoNT-A therapy by far. This, as early treatment effectively avoids complications typically associated with a PS-SMD, i.e., contractures, pain, skin lesions. The management of PS-SMD requires a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach. Early assessment, patient-centered goal setting, early intervention, and early use of BoNT-A therapy prevents from PS-SMD complications and may improve rehabilitation outcome after stroke.

Citations

• How many stroke survivors develop problematic spasticity requiring pharmacological therapy? An international (Europe and USA) observational study protocol
  Richard D Zorowitz, Laura Serrano Barrenechea, Simon Butet, Sergiu Groppa, David Hernández Herrero, Rama Prasad, Susan Sandars, Seema Meloni, Simon Page, Pascal Maisonobe, Alessandro Picelli
  BMJ Open.2025; 15(1): e087404.     CrossRef
• The Role of Botulinum Toxin Type-A in Spasticity: Research Trends from a Bibliometric Analysis
  Salvatore Facciorusso, Stefania Spina, Alessandro Picelli, Alessio Baricich, Gerard E. Francisco, Franco Molteni, Jörg Wissel, Andrea Santamato
  Toxins.2024; 16(4): 184.     CrossRef
• Botulinum Toxin in Treatments for Abnormal Movements
  María Gabriela González Chico, Xaviera Elizabeth Medina Godoy, Miliana Esperanza Estupiñan Bazurto, María José López Becerra
  Más Vita.2024; 6(2): 82.     CrossRef
• Botulinum Toxin Type A (BoNT-A) Use for Post-Stroke Spasticity: A Multicenter Study Using Natural Language Processing and Machine Learning
  María Jesús Antón, Montserrat Molina, José Gabriel Pérez, Santiago Pina, Noemí Tapiador, Beatriz De La Calle, Mónica Martínez, Paula Ortega, María Belén Ruspaggiari, Consuelo Tudela, Marta Conejo, Pedro Leno, Marta López, Carmen Marhuenda, Carlos Arias-Ca
  Toxins.2024; 16(8): 340.     CrossRef
• Risk factors for post-stroke spasticity: a retrospective study
  Chuanxi Zhu, Lingxu Li, Long Qiu, Guangcheng Ji
  Frontiers in Neurology.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Early is Better, Then, How Early and How to Apply: Practical Approach of Botulinum Toxin Injection
  Joon-Ho Shin
  Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine.2023; 47(6): 439.     CrossRef

Objective
To investigate the relationship between the torque onset angle (TOA) of the isokinetic test for knee extensors in the paretic side and walking related balance in subacute stroke patients.
Methods
We retrospectively reviewed patients with first-ever strokes who have had at least two isokinetic tests within 6 months of onset. 102 patients satisfied the inclusion criteria. The characteristics of walking related balance were measured with the Berg Balance Scale sub-score (sBBS), Timed Up and Go test (TUG), 10-m Walk Test (10MWT) and Functional Independence Measure sub-score (sFIM). The second isokinetic test values of the knee extensor such as peak torque, peak torque to weight ratio, hamstring/quadriceps ratio, TOA, torque stop angle, torque at 30 degrees, and peak torque asymmetry ratio between paretic and non-paretic limb were also taken into account. Pearson’s correlation, simple regression and multiple regression analysis were used to analyze the correlation between TOA and walking related balance.
Results
TOA of the knee extensor of the paretic limb showed significant correlations with BBS, sBBS, TUG, 10MWT, and sFIM according to Pearson’s correlation analysis. TOA also had moderate to good correlations with walking related balance parameters in partial correlation analysis. In multiple regression analysis, TOA of the paretic knee extensor was significantly associated with walking related balance parameters.
Conclusion
This study demonstrated that TOA of the paretic knee extensor is a predictable parameter of walking related balance. Moreover, we suggest that the ability to recruit muscle quickly is important in walking related balance.

With the increasing frequency of disasters and the significant upsurge of survivors with severe impairments and long-term disabling conditions, there is a greater focus on the importance of rehabilitation in disaster management. During disasters, rehabilitation services confront a greater load due to the influx of victims, management of persons with pre-existing disabilities and chronic conditions, and longer-term care continuum. Despite robust consensus amongst the international disaster response and management community for the rehabilitation-inclusive disaster management process, rehabilitation is still less prioritised. Evidence supports the early involvement of rehabilitation professionals in disaster response and management for minimising mortality and disability, and improving clinical outcomes and participation in disaster survivors. In the last two decades, there have been substantial developments in disaster response/management processes including the World Health Organization Emergency Medical Team (EMT) initiative, which provides a standardized structured plan to provide effective and coordinated care during disasters. However, rehabilitation-inclusive disaster management plans are yet to be developed and/or implemented in many disaster-prone countries. Strong leadership and effective action from national and international bodies are required to strengthen national rehabilitation capacity (services and skilled workforce) and empower international and local EMTs and health services for comprehensive disaster management in future calamities. This narrative review highlights the role of rehabilitation and current developments in disaster rehabilitation; challenges and key future perspectives in this area.

Citations

• Rehabilitation under fire: insights from SUMC
  Alan Friedman, Cheryl Benjamin, Iuly Treger
  The Lancet.2025; 405(10487): 1338.     CrossRef
• Afet Sonrası Tıbbi Rehabilitasyon Süreci ve Küresel Gelişmeler
  Cem Zafer Yıldır
  Kahramanmaraş Sütçü İmam Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi Dergisi.2024; 19(1): 134.     CrossRef
• Development and implementation of a rehabilitation triage algorithm for disasters in the subacute phase: an experience from the 2024 Noto peninsula earthquake
  Shigehito Shiota, Naoya Orita, Yuma Tsubakita, Masaya Ichimoto, Noboru Shimada, Naoya Goto, Tomohiro Hirota, Shunsuke Taito, Kazuhiko Hirata, Yukio Mikami
  Frontiers in Disaster and Emergency Medicine.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Prosthesis applications and challenges in children with earthquake-related amputations
  Sibel Basaran, Aylin Sariyildiz, Sila Olmez, Bugra Kundakci, Omer Sunkar Bicer
  Injury.2024; 55(11): 111920.     CrossRef
• Efficacy of a Novel Recording Method in Facilitating Rapid Documentation of Disaster Rehabilitation Support Activities
  Akira Morikawa, Masao Tomioka, Ryuichi Saura
  The Japanese Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine.2024; 61(8): 757.     CrossRef
• Challenges in accessing health care services for women and girls with disabilities using a humanitarian physical rehabilitation program in Lebanon: a mixed method study
  Linda Abou-Abbas, Diana Sabbagh, Rodolfo Rossi, Lavanya Vijayasingham, Maria Rita Lteif, Haya Rawi, Rouba Mitri, Hala Al Sultan, Aicha Benyaich, Ahmad AL-MOSA, Claudia Truppa
  International Journal for Equity in Health.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef

Objective
To compare the efficacy of home-based cardiac rehabilitation (HBCR) and center-based cardiac rehabilitation (CBCR) in cardiovascular risk factor management.
Methods
We performed retrospective review of the electronic medical records of 72 patients who were hospitalized for acute coronary syndrome and participated in a cardiac rehabilitation (CR) program for the first time. The participants were stratified into the HBCR group, receiving educational programs and performing self-exercise at home, and the CBCR group, participating in electrocardiogram monitoring monitoring exercise training in hospital settings. The results of the Lifestyle Questionnaire survey were investigated at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months.
Results
Both groups showed significant improvements in serum low-density lipoprotein levels, frequency of alcohol consumption, eating habits and psychological status. Moderate-intensity exercise duration and the maximal metabolic equivalents values improved significantly in both groups but slightly more in the CBCR group. However, the number of current smokers increased in both groups, and no significant changes were found in body mass index, serum glycated hemoglobin levels, serum high-density lipoprotein levels, or high-intensity exercise duration.
Conclusion
Regardless of the CR program type, a patient’s lifestyle can be modified. Therefore, patients should continue participating in any type of CR program.

Citations

• Actualización en rehabilitación cardiaca en el paciente crítico cardiovascular: una revisión de tema
  Juan Santiago Serna-Trejos, Carlos Andrés Castro-Galvis, Stefanya Geraldine Bermúdez-Moyano, Laura Catalina Rodríguez-Fonseca, Álvaro Andrés Montenegro-Apraez, Jorge Fernando Miño-Bernal, Lina María Salazar-Rodríguez, Valentina Bravo-Echeverry
  Acta Colombiana de Cuidado Intensivo.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
• The cytoplasmic sensor, the AIM2 inflammasome: A precise therapeutic target in vascular and metabolic diseases
  Jiuguo Lin, Jiaojiao Wang, Jian Fang, Meihang Li, Suowen Xu, Peter J. Little, Dongmei Zhang, Zhiping Liu
  British Journal of Pharmacology.2024; 181(12): 1695.     CrossRef
• Cardiac rehabilitation centers in Romania: Where are we now?
  Mihaela Mandu, Gabriel Olteanu, Andreea Elena Lăcraru, Gelu Onose, Narcisa Lazăr, Liviu Șerbănoiu, Maria-Alexandra Ciucă-Pană, Ioana Andone, Aura Spinu, Andreea Ancuta Vataman, Gabriela Dogaru, Ștefan Busnatu
  Balneo and PRM Research Journal.2024; 15(Vol.15, no): 707.     CrossRef
• Optimizing Cardiac Rehabilitation in Heart Failure: Comprehensive Insights, Barriers, and Future Strategies
  Francisco Epelde
  Medicina.2024; 60(10): 1583.     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
Dysphagia is a common clinical condition characterized by difficulty in swallowing. It is sub-classified into oropharyngeal dysphagia, which refers to problems in the mouth and pharynx, and esophageal dysphagia, which refers to problems in the esophageal body and esophagogastric junction. Dysphagia can have a significant negative impact one’s physical health and quality of life as its severity increases. Therefore, proper assessment and management of dysphagia are critical for improving swallowing function and preventing complications. Thus a guideline was developed to provide evidence-based recommendations for assessment and management in patients with dysphagia.
Methods
Nineteen key questions on dysphagia were developed. These questions dealt with various aspects of problems related to dysphagia, including assessment, management, and complications. A literature search for relevant articles was conducted using Pubmed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and one domestic database of KoreaMed, until April 2021. The level of evidence and recommendation grade were established according to the Grading of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation methodology.
Results
Early screening and assessment of videofluoroscopic swallowing were recommended for assessing the presence of dysphagia. Therapeutic methods, such as tongue and pharyngeal muscle strengthening exercises and neuromuscular electrical stimulation with swallowing therapy, were effective in improving swallowing function and quality of life in patients with dysphagia. Nutritional intervention and an oral care program were also recommended.
Conclusion
This guideline presents recommendations for the assessment and management of patients with oropharyngeal dysphagia, including rehabilitative strategies.

Citations

• Using concept mapping to guide dysphagia service enhancements in Singapore: Recommendations from the speech-language pathology workforce
  Flora M.M Poon, Elizabeth C. Ward, Clare L. Burns
  International Journal of Speech-Language Pathology.2025; 27(1): 56.     CrossRef
• Cough Suppression Therapy in Patients With Chronic Refractory Cough and Oropharyngeal Dysphagia
  ShengYing A. Chen, Jessica F. Kim, Priya Krishna, Ethan Simmons, Brianna K. Crawley, Thomas Murry
  American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology.2025; 34(3): 1058.     CrossRef
• Characterization of Beverage Viscosity Based on the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative and Its Correspondence to the Japanese Dysphagia Diet 2021
  Mari Nakao-Kato, Aya Takahashi, Jin Magara
  Nutrients.2025; 17(6): 1051.     CrossRef
• Factors influencing oropharyngeal dysphagia in individuals with chronic neurological disorders presenting to the outpatient swallowing disorder clinic
  Güleser Güney Yılmaz, Müberra Tanrıverdi, Remzi Doğan, Orhan Özturan
  Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders.2025; 97: 106387.     CrossRef
• The Efficacy of Outpatient Swallowing Therapy: A Retrospective Longitudinal Cohort Study
  Tyler W. Crosby, Sonja Molfenter, Matina Balou, Uche C. Ezeh, Milan R. Amin
  Dysphagia.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
• The Role of Dysphagia on Head and Neck Cancer Patients’ Quality of Life, Functional Disabilities and Psychological Distress: Outcomes of Cancer Rehabilitation from an Observational Single-Center Study
  Špela Matko, Christina Knauseder, David Riedl, Vincent Grote, Michael J. Fischer, Samuel Moritz Vorbach, Karin Pfaller-Frank, Wilhelm Frank, Thomas Licht
  Current Oncology.2025; 32(4): 220.     CrossRef
• The impact of physical therapy on dysphagia in neurological diseases: a review
  Kun Li, Cuiyuan Fu, Zhen Xie, Jiajia Zhang, Chenchen Zhang, Rui Li, Caifeng Gao, Jiahui Wang, Chuang Xue, Yuebing Zhang, Wei Deng
  Frontiers in Human Neuroscience.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Clinical Characteristics and Evaluation of Dysphagia in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease
  Seo Jung Yun, Han Gil Seo
  Journal of the Korean Dysphagia Society.2024; 14(1): 10.     CrossRef
• Updated Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Long COVID
  Jun-Won Seo, Seong Eun Kim, Yoonjung Kim, Eun Jung Kim, Tark Kim, Taehwa Kim, So Hee Lee, Eunjung Lee, Jacob Lee, Yu Bin Seo, Young-Hoon Jeong, Young Hee Jung, Yu Jung Choi, Joon Young Song
  Infection & Chemotherapy.2024; 56(1): 122.     CrossRef
• Association between the C-reactive protein/albumin ratio and mortality in older Japanese patients with dysphagia
  Chunhong Guo, Pingping Zheng, Shiyang Chen, Lin Wei, Xiuzhen Fu, Youyuan Fu, Tianhong Hu, Shaohua Chen
  Frontiers in Nutrition.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Compensatory strategies of dysphagia after anterior cervical spinal surgery: A case report
  Sung Joon Chung, Jun Ho Lee, Yunsoo Soh
  Medicine.2024; 103(29): e39016.     CrossRef
• The Right ICD Code, Right Now: A Call to Action for Pragmatic Language Disorders After Right Hemisphere Stroke
  Jamila Minga, Shanika Phillips Fullwood, Deborah Rose, Danai Kasambira Fannin
  American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology.2024; 33(6): 3121.     CrossRef
• Dysphagia Screening in Residential Long-Term Care Settings in the Republic of Ireland: A Cross-Sectional Survey
  Constantino Estupiñán Artiles, Claire Donnellan, Julie Regan, Mary Mooney
  Dysphagia.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Dysphagia and Dysphonia After Head and Neck Cancer
  Aaron Parsons, Karuna Dewan
  Oral Diseases.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• The pathophysiology of dysphagia post‐lung transplant: A systematic review
  Sana Smaoui, Elly Cummins, Maryah Mena, Summer Scott, Rodrigo Tobar‐Fredes
  Laryngoscope Investigative Otolaryngology.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Effect of segmental tongue function training on tongue pressure attributes in individuals with dysphagia after receiving radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma
  Fei Zhao, Chen Yang, Si-Ming Sun, Yao-Wen Zhang, Hong-Mei Wen, Zu-Lin Dou, Xiao-Mei Wei, Chun-Qing Xie
  BMC Oral Health.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Diagnosis and treatment of dysphagia
  Kyoung Hyo Choi
  Journal of the Korean Medical Association.2023; 66(10): 604.     CrossRef

The survival rate of children admitted in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) after birth is on the increase; hence, proper evaluation and care of their neurodevelopment has become an important issue. Neurodevelopmental assessments of individual domains regarding motor, language, cognition, and sensory perception are crucial in planning prompt interventions for neonates requiring immediate support and rehabilitation treatment. These assessments are essential for identifying areas of weakness and designing targeted interventions to improve future functional outcomes and the quality of lives for both the infants and their families. However, initial stratification of risk to select those who are in danger of neurodevelopmental disorders is also important in terms of cost-effectiveness. Efficient and robust functional evaluations to recognize early signs of developmental disorders will help NICU graduates receive interventions and enhance functional capabilities if needed. Several age-dependent, domain-specific neurodevelopmental assessment tools are available; therefore, this review summarizes the characteristics of these tools and aims to develop multidimensional, standardized, and regular follow-up plans for NICU graduates in Korea.

Citations

• Recurrent peripheral intravenous catheterization in neonates: A case series
  Stephanie Hall, Emily Larsen, Linda Cobbald, Nicole Marsh, Linda McLaughlin, Mari Takashima, Robert S. Ware, Amanda Ulman, Deanne August
  Nursing in Critical Care.2025;[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
• NICU Graduates and Psychosocial Problems in Childhood: A Systematic Review
  Ravi Gajula, Veerabadram Yeshala, Nagalakshmi Gogikar, Rakesh Kotha
  Cureus.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Performance of Activities of Daily Living in Typically Developing Children in Korea: Normative Value of K-MBI
  Mi-Jeong Yoon, Sungwoo Paek, Jongbin Lee, Youngdeok Hwang, Joon-Sung Kim, Yeun-Jie Yoo, Bo Young Hong
  Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine.2024; 48(4): 281.     CrossRef
• Modern approaches to assessing motor development in infants and young children in clinical practice
  Natalia V. Andrushchenko, Alexander B. Palchik, Marina V. Osipova
  Russian Family Doctor.2024; 28(4): 24.     CrossRef

Objective
To evaluate the feasibility and usability of cost-effective complex upper and lower limb robot-assisted gait training in patients with stroke using the GTR-A, a foot-plate based end-effector type robotic device.
Methods
Patients with subacute stroke (n=9) were included in this study. The enrolled patients received 30-minute robot-assisted gait training thrice a week for 2 weeks (6 sessions). The hand grip strength, functional ambulation categories, modified Barthel index, muscle strength test sum score, Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go Test, and Short Physical Performance Battery were used as functional assessments. The heart rate was measured to evaluate cardiorespiratory fitness. A structured questionnaire was used to evaluate the usability of robot-assisted gait training. All the parameters were evaluated before and after the robot-assisted gait training program.
Results
Eight patients completed robot-assisted gait training, and all parameters of functional assessment significantly improved between baseline and posttraining, except for hand grip strength and muscle strength test score. The mean scores for each domain of the questionnaire were as follows: safety, 4.40±0.35; effects, 4.23±0.31; efficiency, 4.22±0.77; and satisfaction, 4.41±0.25.
Conclusion
Thus, the GTR-A is a feasible and safe robotic device for patients with gait impairment after stroke, resulting in improvement of ambulatory function and performance of activities of daily living with endurance training. Further research including various diseases and larger sample groups is necessary to verify the utility of this device.

Citations

• Changes in body composition, physical fitness and quality of life on robotic gait assisted training in patients with Guillain-Barré Syndrome: a case report
  Moon Jin Lee, Sung Jin Yoon
  Physical Activity and Nutrition.2024; 28(4): 009.     CrossRef
• Smart Devices for Health and Wellness Applied to Tele-Exercise: An Overview of New Trends and Technologies Such as IoT and AI
  Antonio Fabbrizio, Alberto Fucarino, Manuela Cantoia, Andrea De Giorgio, Nuno D. Garrido, Enzo Iuliano, Victor Machado Reis, Martina Sausa, José Vilaça-Alves, Giovanna Zimatore, Carlo Baldari, Filippo Macaluso
  Healthcare.2023; 11(12): 1805.     CrossRef

Objective
To assess the relationships between phase angle and muscle mass, strength, and physical function in patients with heart failure.
Methods
This study used a cross-sectional design. The analysis included 51 patients with heart failure. The Short Physical Performance Battery, one-leg standing time, handgrip strength, phase angle, and skeletal muscle index were measured. To identify explanatory variables of phase angle, hierarchical multiple regression analysis was performed.
Results
Handgrip strength was found to be an explanatory variable of phase angle independent of age, sex, and body mass index. This model was able to explain 30.4% of the model variance for phase angle.
Conclusion
In patients with heart failure, improving muscle strength rather than muscle mass or physical function might be more important for improving phase angle. Handgrip strength is an important outcome for improving prognosis in patients with heart failure.

Citations

• Phase Angle and Impedance Ratio as Indicators of Physical Function and Fear of Falling in Older Adult Women: Cross-Sectional Analysis
  Danielle A Sterner, Jeffrey R Stout, Kworweinski Lafontant, Joon-Hyuk Park, David H Fukuda, Ladda Thiamwong
  JMIR Aging.2024; 7: e53975.     CrossRef
• Prevalence and clinical characteristics of Sarcopenia in older adult patients with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a cross-sectional and follow-up study
  Sang Hun Kim, Cho Hui Hong, Myung-Jun Shin, Ki Uk Kim, Tae Sung Park, Jun Yong Park, Yong Beom Shin
  BMC Pulmonary Medicine.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Malnutrition in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Insights from Morphofunctional Assessment and Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition Criteria
  María Teresa Zarco-Martín, Carmen Freire, María Carmen Andreo-López, Socorro Leyva-Martínez, María Luisa Fernández-Soto
  Nutrients.2024; 16(16): 2625.     CrossRef

Spinal cord injury (SCI) has been recognized as a medically complex and life-disrupting condition. As the aging of the population accelerates, the trend of SCI has changed. This review aimed to provide comprehensive statistics and recent epidemiological changes in SCI and rehabilitation in Korea. All three insurance databases (National Health Insurance Service [NHIS], automobile insurance [AUI], and industrial accident compensation insurance [IACI]) were considered. These nationwide databases provide data on the current trends in term of incidence, etiology, and rehabilitation of SCI. Traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) was more frequent among the elderly in the NHIS compared to working age individuals in the AUI and IACI. In all three trauma-related insurance databases, male with TSCI outnumbered female. TSCI incidence per year was approximately 17 times higher among males than females, on average, in IACI. In all three insurances, the cervical level of TSCI was the most frequent. Although the ratio of SCI patients receiving rehabilitation treatment at primary and secondary hospitals increased for nine years, the increase in training on activities of daily living (ADL training) was found to be relatively small. This review provides a broader and comprehensive understanding of the incidence, etiology, and rehabilitation treatment of SCI in Korea.

Citations

• Effectiveness of a Community-Based Exercise Program for Ambulatory Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury: A Randomized Controlled Trial
  Sungchul Huh, Yuna Kim, Hyun-Yoon Ko, Mi Sook Yun, Yong Il Shin, Jung Lim Lee, Sung-Hwa Ko
  Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.2025; 106(4): 481.     CrossRef
• Deep Learning-Based Prediction Model for Gait Recovery after a Spinal Cord Injury
  Hyun-Joon Yoo, Kwang-Sig Lee, Bummo Koo, Chan-Woo Yong, Chae-Won Kim
  Diagnostics.2024; 14(6): 579.     CrossRef
• Traumatic spinal cord injury: A four-year study in Puerto Rico
  Manuel F. Mas, Félix Pérez, Anna Blanco, Javier Deya, Natasha L. Frontera, Marcos R. Latimer, José Quintana, José G. Conde, Walter R. Frontera
  The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine.2024; : 1.     CrossRef
• Risk of fracture among patients with spinal cord injury: A nationwide cohort study in South Korea
  Seonghye Kim, Bongseong Kim, Kyung-Do Han, Junhee Park, Jung Eun Yoo, Hea Lim Choi, Won Hyuk Chang, In Young Cho, Dong Wook Shin
  Bone.2024; 183: 117093.     CrossRef
• Significance of physical factors on activities of daily living in patients with tetraplegia after spinal cord injury: a retrospective study
  Kimin Yun, Jin-cheol Lim, Onyoo Kim
  BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Community-Based Exercise Programs Post Spinal Cord Injury Hospitalization: A Pilot Study for a Randomized, Multicenter, Double-Blind Controlled Setting
  Dongheon Kang, Jiyoung Park
  Life.2024; 14(9): 1135.     CrossRef
• Trends in the Incidence and Etiology of Non-Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury in Korea: A Nationwide Population-Based Study From 2007 to 2020
  Yoonjeong Choi, Ja-Ho Leigh, Jooeun Jeon, Goo Joo Lee, Hyung-Ik Shin, Moon Suk Bang
  Journal of Korean Medical Science.2023;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Risk Factors for Suicidality in Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury: A Focus on Physical and Functional Characteristics
  Sora Han, Wooyeung Kim, Onyoo Kim
  Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine.2023; 47(5): 377.     CrossRef

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 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).

Cancer rehabilitation aims to enable patients to maximize their physical, social, psychological, and vocational functions within the limits that arise during the course of the disease and its treatment. According to recent domestic studies, most patients report one or more physical problems during or after cancer treatment. This review presents the latest updates on cancer-related rehabilitation issues. Cancer rehabilitation in Korea still faces various barriers, including a lack of awareness, problems with the healthcare delivery system, and high costs, and recognizing the need for rehabilitation during cancer treatment varies among patients and even physicians. Hence, an appropriate cooperative referral system for cancer rehabilitation requires improvement. We herein review the current status of and barriers to cancer rehabilitation in South Korea to resolve the issues of domestic cancer rehabilitation.

Citations

• Use of Pulmonary Rehabilitation for Lung Cancer Patients in Korea: Analysis of the National Health Insurance Service Database
  Sang Hun Kim, Cho Hui Hong, Jong-Hwa Jeong, Jinmi Kim, Jeong Su Cho, Jin A Yoon, Jung Seop Eom, Byeong Ju Lee, Myung Hun Jang, Myung-Jun Shin, Yong Beom Shin
  Journal of Korean Medical Science.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Factors associated with sedentary behavior among community-dwelling breast cancer survivors aged 50 years or older
  Jae Hyeon Park, Jung Soo Lee, Hyung Seok Nam, Yeo Hyung Kim
  Scientific Reports.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef