Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy Journal

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Background: Chronic musculoskeletal pain significantly affects an individual’s well-being and daily functioning. Excessive smartphone use has been linked to the development of musculoskeletal pain, poor sleep quality, and central sensitization of the cervical spine and upper limbs. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the effects of smartphone addiction on poor sleep quality and central sensitization in individuals with chronic cervical spine and upper limb musculoskeletal pain. Objective: The objective of the study was to investigate the relationship between smartphone addiction, sleep quality, and central sensitization in individuals with chronic musculoskeletal pain in the cervical spine and upper limbs. Methods and Materials: A cross-sectional observational design was employed, with 300 participants. Data on smartphone addiction, sleep quality, and central sensitization were collected using validated questionnaires: Smartphone Addiction Score-Short Version (SAS-SV), Central Sensitization Inventory-Gujarati (CSI-G), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PISQI). In addition, hours of smartphone usage and pain level were measured on a numerical pain rating scale. Results: Significant correlations were identified between smartphone addiction, sleep quality, and central sensitization. A statistically significant Pearson correlation coefficient was found between scores of SAS-SV and CSI 0.495 (p = 0.001), SAS-SV and PISQI 0.285 (p = 0.001), SAS-SV and the Hours of Smartphone usage 0.716 (p = 0.001), and SAS-SV and the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) 0.417 (p = 0.001). Conclusions: This study found a significant relationship between smartphone addiction, poor sleep quality, and central sensitization in individuals with chronic musculoskeletal pain of the cervical spine and upper limbs. These results suggest that excessive smartphone use and sleep disturbances may contribute to the development of central sensitization, impacting pain levels and overall well-being. KEY MESSAGE There is a connection among smartphone addiction, poor sleep quality, and central sensitization in individuals with chronic musculoskeletal pain.

Background: The study of the health professions is extremely demanding and challenging which requires students to manage a complex learning and professional environment. For students to perform at their best in higher education settings, they need to be able to effectively deal with pressure. There is dearth of literature regarding stress and work ability among final year, interns and post graduate students. So, we intend to determine the prevalence of work-related psychological stress and workability among physiotherapy students. Materials and Methods: A Google form questionnaire was created with surveyrelated questions from the Work Ability Index (WAI) and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 106 physiotherapy students (aged 19 to 26) were chosen (convenience sample) from different physiotherapy institutions in Gujarat. Result: there is persistence perceived stress and work ability among the physiotherapy colleges across Gujarat. Conclusion: Majority of the population reported to have moderate level of perceived stress and excellent work ability.

Background: The Matrix-Rhythm-Therapy (MRT) directly derived from the clinical and fundamental video-microscopic research of Erlangen University (Dr. Randoll) in the 1990’s is a device which activates and rebalances certain skeletal muscles and physiological vibrations of the nervous system. Until now very few studies have been published which attempted on application of Matrix Rhythm Therapy on various musculoskeletal disorders. Aim and Objective: This literature review will identify the application of Matrix Rhythm Therapy to a varying range of musculoskeletal disorders. Methods: A literature review was performed on PubMed/MedLine, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (Central), Embase and Scopus from inception until January 2024. Results: Randomised control trails, quasi experimental studies, comparative studies were included in the review. Conclusion: MRT’s effectiveness on various musculoskeletal disorders has been studied and it has been identified that MRT has a potential to be extensively used in treating varied types of musculoskeletal disorders since its effect has proven to be more beneficial than other conventional physiotherapy techniques.

Context: Chronic illnesses adversely affect pulmonary function, physical fitness, and quality of life (QoL). Integrative rehabilitation strategies may yield better outcomes. Aims: To evaluate the individual and combined effects of aerobic exercise and Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY) on pulmonary function, physical fitness, and QoL in patients recovering from chronic illness. Settings and Design: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 60 patients (mean age: 45.3 ± 7.2 years, 60% female) at a tertiary care rehabilitation center. Patients were allocated to three groups: Group A (aerobic exercise), Group B (SKY), and Group C (combined aerobic exercise and SKY). Methods and Material: Pulmonary function was assessed using Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 s (FEV1), physical fitness was measured via the 6-Minute Walk Test (6 MWT), and QoL was evaluated using the SF-36 Questionnaire. The interventions lasted 4 weeks, with pre and post-intervention assessments. Data analysis: Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and post-hoc tests to compare the effects of interventions across groups. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Results: The combined intervention (Group C) showed significantly greater improvements in FEV1 (mean increase: 12.3%, p < 0.05), 6 MWT distance (mean increase: 78.5 ± 10.2 meters, p < 0.05), and SF-36 QoL scores (mean increase: 22.8 ± 3.5 points, p < 0.05) compared to Group A and Group B. Both individual interventions also showed improvements, but were less pronounced than the combined approach. Conclusions: Integrating aerobic exercise and SKY offers synergistic benefits and significantly enhances pulmonary function, physical fitness, and QoL in patients recovering from chronic illnesses. This combination is a promising approach to comprehensive rehabilitation. KEY MESSAGE The combination of aerobic exercise and Sudarshan Kriya Yoga significantly improved recovery outcomes in patients with chronic illnesses, emphasizing the need for holistic and integrative rehabilitation strategies.

Background: Within the human body, mechanical low back pain is among the most prevalent ailment, next only to the common cold. Back discomfort contributes to tardiness, reduced efficiency, healthcare costs, lost wages, and a host of psychological issues. Muscle energy approach combines the exactitude of passive mobilization with manual therapy to treat movement dysfunction. A passive manual treatment method called positional release is utilized to enhance function and lessen discomfort Aim : The aim of the study is to compare the effectiveness of MET versus PRT on pain and disability index in individual with mechanical low back ache. Objective: The objective of the study is to compare the effectiveness of MET and Positional release technique on pain and lumbar ROM in mechanical low back pain Methodology: This comparative experimental research investigation (pre- and post-intervention) was conducted in the outpatient department of ACS Hospital, Chennai. This research investigation intended to assess and contrast the efficacy of Manual Therapy (MET) and Progressive Resistance Training (PRT) in alleviating pain and impairment in patients with mechanical low back pain. A cohort of 30 individuals was selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Employing a basic random sample technique, thirty participants were randomly allocated into two groups of fifteen throughout a duration of six weeks, with three sessions each week. Pain and disability were assessed by the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Modified Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire. Comparisons of pre-test and post-test mean values yielded a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001), demonstrating that the Muscle Energy Technique is superior than the Positional Release Approach for lower lower back pain of mechanical origin. Result: Upon analysing the Pre-test and Post-test data from Group A and Group B, as measured by the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Modified Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire, a statistically significant difference in mean scores is seen, with a p-value of < 0.001. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the finding that the Muscle Energy Technique is substantially more efficacious as opposed to the Positional Release Technique for individuals suffering from mechanical low back pain.

Introduction: Diabetes and peripheral arterial disease affect many physiological systems and can lead to health problems or commodities. In particular, as individuals with diabetes age, they are at risk of developing diabetes-related cognitive dysfunction. Mild or moderate cognitive deficits have been detected, which may affect performance in everyday tasks. Individuals with diabetes are also 19 times more at risk of undergoing lower extremity amputations (LEA) than the general population. Objectives: To assess cognitive function by using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale in lower limb amputee individuals. Methods: cognitive function assessment using the Montreal assessment scale in lower limb amputee individuals. This study was designed as a cross-sectional survey. Eligible participants were older than 50 years of age for lower limb amputation Results: Questionnaires were distributed among 20 participants, and data were analyzed for 20 participants. Participants’ Demographic details were recorded, and each participant was interviewed individually to complete the data collection. The demographic details of the participants of both groups are given below in Table 1. Participants in the analysis were more likely to be males (65%) and females (35%) with comorbidity diabetes mellitus and hypertension (45%-30%), respectively. They were also likely reported to have a level of education based on literacy and illiteracy (75%-25%) and working status (Employee 20% Unemployment 80%). Conclusions: This study concluded the importance of assessing cognitive function in individuals with lower limb amputation, particularly those with comorbidity conditions like diabetes and hypertension. Cognitive impairments, especially in executive function, attention, and abstraction, can impact rehabilitation outcomes and quality of life.

Background: Sports knee injury usually occurs by an uncontrolled movement of Lower extremity. Athletes with significant external tibial torsion and knee flexion more than 90 degrees during take-off are at risk for developing Patellofemoral pain syndrome. SOCKE exercise is designed for quadriceps muscle training and has a high recruitment impact on the VMO, thereby help to alter the Q-angle mechanism in knee pain. Objective of this study is to find out the effects of sling open chain knee extension exercise in altering the Q angle and improving their jumping performance in volleyball players among college students. Method: This Experimental study involves 30 volley ball players & they were divided into 2 groups (experimental & control). Experimental group received SOCKE Exercise along with conventional knee exercise & Control group received only conventional knee exercise with treatment duration of 6 weeks. Pre & posttest outcome measures of VJT and Q-angle were assessed. Results: Pre-test and post-test values obtained were analysed using paired & unpaired ‘t’ test for 28 degrees of freedom at a 5% level of significance. The mean value of VJT and Q-ANGLE in experimental group 3.00 & 3.07 shows more significant than mean value of VJT and Q-ANGLE control group 2.33 & 2.47. Conclusion: This study concludes that Experimental group who received sling open chain knee extension exercise shows greater statistically significant in reducing Q-angle and improving the jumping performance than control Group who received only Conventional knee exercises.

Physiotherapy diagnosis is an integral component of effective rehabilitation and patient management, focusing on the identification and classification of functional impairments, movement dysfunctions, and activity limitations. Unlike medical diagnoses, which emphasize pathologies, physiotherapy diagnosis adopts a holistic, function-oriented approach aligned with the biopsychosocial model. This article explores the significance of physiotherapy diagnosis, highlighting its role in enhancing treatment planning and promoting patient-centered care. It delves into diagnostic frameworks, such as the International Classification of Functioning (ICF) system. Challenges, including diagnostic variability and the need for standardization, are addressed alongside the merits of evidence-based practices. By emphasizing collaboration and innovation, physiotherapy diagnosis emerges as a dynamic and vital discipline in modern healthcare, ensuring tailored interventions and improved patient outcomes.

Background: Menopause, or the permanent cessation of the menstrual cycle, was a significant physiological transition in a woman's life. It was frequently associated with symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, sleep difficulties, sexual dysfunction, depression, anxiety, memory loss, fatigue, headache, joint pain, weight gain, stress urine incontinence, and pelvic floor muscle dysfunction. Traditional therapies mainly involved hormonal and pharmaceutical procedures, but other non-pharmaceutical ways were progressively investigated. Objective: This review explores the potential of immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) as an innovative, non-drug-based solution for managing menopause-related challenges. Methods: An extensive literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies that explored the use of immersive, semi-immersive, and non-immersive VR in alleviating menopausal symptoms. A total of 15 studies were analyzed to evaluate the effectiveness of IVR in addressing symptoms, including osteoporosis, cognitive problems, stress urinary incontinence, hot flashes, anxiety, pelvic floor dysfunction, and overall well-being. Results: The findings indicated that immersive VR offered unique benefits such as enhanced engagement, real-time feedback, and personalized interventions. Evidence suggested significant improvements in balance, cognitive function, muscle strength, and psychological health. IVR interventions also demonstrated potential in managing symptoms such as stress urinary incontinence, pelvic floor dysfunction, anxiety, and hot flashes, contributing to improved overall well-being. Conclusion: IVR offers a promising, non-pharmaceutical solution to improve menopausal women’s quality of life by effectively addressing physical and emotional symptoms.

Background: With the rising prevalence of acute and chronic lung diseases, the only way to compensate for the loss of organ function is to use an artificial organ or a transplant. Lung transplantation, on the other hand, is only available to a small percentage of patients due to the scarcity of transplantable organs.Despite the fact that the organ is artificially replaced for the kidney and heart, it has been a feasible option for many years, artificial pulmonary systems can only be replaced for a short period of time. Aim: To discuss the implications of bio-engineering technologies in inventing the bio-artificial lungs. Objectives: To discuss the current barriers to lung transplant in a country like India and discuss the current available treatment options. Results: Longer-lasting wearable systems are now largely owing to advancements in the engineering of hollow fiber membrane gas exchangers, which can be used to help patients transition from lung failure to transplantation. Conclusion: Advances in the conception of microchannel-based devices, which may even allow intracorporeal implantation, have given rise to the concept of biomimetic devices. Tissue engineering and cell-based technologies have been used to create bioartificial lungs with properties that are similar to those of the natural organs.

Background: Incentive spirometry (IS) is a widely utilized respiratory therapy aimed at preventing postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) and improving lung function. Despite its widespread adoption, the evidence supporting its standalone efficacy across various clinical settings remains inconsistent. Objective: This narrative review evaluates the effectiveness of IS in clinical practice, focusing on its role in postoperative care, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) management, and COVID-19 rehabilitation. Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases identified 13 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published between 2000 and 2024. Inclusion criteria were studies involving adult populations, written in English, and focused on IS as an intervention. Data on study design, patient characteristics, IS protocols, and outcomes were extracted and synthesized qualitatively. Results: The findings reveal mixed outcomes. IS as a standalone intervention showed limited efficacy in reducing PPCs in cardiac, thoracic, and upper abdominal surgeries. However, when integrated into multimodal rehabilitation protocols, IS demonstrated potential benefits, including improved pulmonary function and faster recovery in patients with COPD and post-COVID-19 conditions. Variability in protocols and adherence across studies limited generalizability. Conclusion: While IS alone may not significantly prevent PPCs, its integration into comprehensive care protocols can enhance patient outcomes. Tailored approaches that combine IS with other respiratory therapies may optimize its effectiveness. Future research should focus on standardizing protocols, long-term outcomes, and patient-centered measures.

Background: Bell’s Palsy After Granular myringitis is a quite rare condition. Bell’s palsy presents as a form of facial nerve paralysis involving lower motor neurons, the etiology of which remains unidentified.(1) The annual occurrence rate of Bell’s palsy ranges from 20 to 30 cases per 100,000 individuals. While this condition can manifest at any point in a person’s life, it typically emerges between the ages of 15 and 30 years.(2) Myringitis refers to inflammation of the tympanic membrane (TM), which can affect its outer surface and sometimes the nearby bony external auditory canal. This condition can present either acutely or chronically. Objective: The aim of this case study is to enhance understanding regarding the involvement of physiotherapy in the management of Bell’s Palsy following Granular myringitis. Discussion: This case report delves into the discussion of the disease, alongside its medical and physiotherapy management, presented briefly. Conclusion: Patient suffering from Bell’s Palsy After Granular myringitis can benefit from a holistic approach with the combination of medicine and physiotherapy.