The Impact of a Foot-Toe Orthosis on Dynamic Balance: An Exploratory Randomized Control Trial

2020 ◽  
Vol 29 (7) ◽  
pp. 871-878
Author(s):  
Adam Kelly ◽  
Justin Stanek

Context: The influence of custom and over-the-counter foot orthoses on dynamic balance has been investigated in the past. However, there has not been an exploration of the use of a foot-toe orthosis for improving balance. The ability of clinicians to influence balance could have important implications for injury prevention and rehabilitation. Objective: To determine the impact of a foot-toe orthosis on dynamic balance in healthy, young adults. Design: Randomized control trial. Setting: Athletic training laboratory. Participants: In total, 64 healthy, recreationally active participants aged 18–29 years were randomly allocated to one of the following groups: the foot-toe orthosis and laboratory-issued shoe group, the laboratory-issued shoe only (SO) group, or the control group. Interventions: Subjects in the intervention group wore the foot-toe orthosis and laboratory-issued shoe with activities of daily living for 4 weeks. Subjects in the SO intervention group wore the laboratory-issued shoe with activities of daily living for 4 weeks. Participants in the control group did not receive any intervention. Main Outcome Measures: The instrumented version of the Star Excursion Balance Test, known as the Lower Quarter Y-Balance Test, was used to quantify the dynamic balance at baseline and follow-up. Reaches were normalized for leg length. Results: There were statistically significant differences in postintervention scores on the Lower Quarter Y-Balance Test for both the dominant (P = .03, effect size = 0.84; 95% confidence interval, 0.25 to 1.43) and nondominant (P = .002, effect size = 0.74; 95% confidence interval, 0.15 to 1.32) legs when comparing dynamic balance scores of the foot-toe orthosis and laboratory-issued shoe group with the SO and control groups. No significant differences were observed when comparing dynamic balance between the SO and control groups. Conclusions: A 4-week intervention with a foot-toe orthosis and laboratory-issued shoe resulted in improved dynamic balance in a healthy young adult population. These findings suggest a novel intervention for increasing balance.

2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (A) ◽  
pp. 1231-1239
Author(s):  
Arwam Hermanus Markus Zeth ◽  
Nouvy Helda Warouw ◽  
Paula Krisanty

The ant plant (Myrmecodia pendans), an epiphyte of Hydnophytinae (Rubiceae), has long been used for traditional medication. This research aimed to examine the effect of ant plant on the increase of CD4 count in PLHIV in Papua Province and to identify the effect of ant plan supplementation on the increase of CD4 in PLHIV. The research used true experimental design with modified randomized control group pretest-posttest design. The pretest was performed by conducting a preliminary count of CD4 in both the intervention and control groups, to which ART has been administered. The intervention group was supplemented with the ant plant on a daily basis, while the control group was given a placebo treatment with tea. Based on the results, it can be concluded that PLHIV given ant plant supplementation may have a higher increase in their CD4 count after receiving an intervention for one month than those who only received ART. Further research is needed to investigate the effect of the ant plant on the viral load in PLHIV.


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohammed Dauda Goni ◽  
Nyi Nyi Naing ◽  
Habsah Hasan ◽  
Nadiah Wan-Arfah ◽  
Zakuan Zainy Deris ◽  
...  

Abstract Background This study was aimed at demonstrating the impact of a health education intervention on reducing the incidence of influenza-like illnesses symptoms among Malaysian's Hajj pilgrims. MethodsThis study utilizes a quasi-experimental study in the evaluation of the impact of the intervention. Participants were recruited during Hajj orientation courses organized by private Hajj companies. Participants from two separate companies were recruited into an intervention group and control group respectively. The intervention group received a Health Belief Model (HBM) based smartphone health education intervention application while the control group received a normal Hajj guide intervention smartphone application before departure to Hajj. Data on the incidence of influenza-like illnesses (ILI) were collected from participants from two Hajj companies before and after returning from Hajj. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS with descriptive analysis, and analytical tests were conducted at 5% significance level. ResultsA total of 102 pilgrims completed the study in both intervention and control groups. The incidence of the symptoms of influenza-like illnesses (ILI) was statistically significant between the intervention and control groups (p = 0.049). The change in the level of knowledge and attitude among the intervention was statistically significant (p= 0.001, p = 0.029). ConclusionIn conclusion, the health education intervention has an impact on reducing the incidence of symptoms among Hajj pilgrims.


2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bartosz Wilczyński ◽  
Katarzyna Zorena ◽  
Piotr Wąż

Abstract Background Participation of children and youth in sporting activities, among others in training and football competitions, is an optimistic manifestation of activation in the current trend of computerization. Unfortunately, this is also often associated with musculoskeletal injuries. An example is the association of dynamic valgus and disturbed dynamic balance with lower limb injuries. The main purpose of the studies is to determine the impact of three strengthening exercises on the parameters of dynamic knee valgus and balance of lower limbs. The secondary objectives are to investigate the dominant influence and the length of lower limb on the valgus values and to determine risk of injury to young football players. Methods 134 young footballers training at the Arka Gdynia SI club were invited to first stage of the research in order to examine anthropometric features and kinematics of the lower limb. Single Leg Squat Test was used, which was recorded. The samples were analyzed video to determine exact knee angle of valgus. During the second stage, to which players with valgus knee were qualified (≥15˚), the Y-Balance Test was additionally used. Intervention group underwent an exercise program to strengthen gluteus medius, popliteal and tibialis posterior muscles for 6 weeks to repeat tests in the third stage. Results Statistical methods used at the assumed level of significance allow to conclude that there are no differences in results of dynamic valgus (≥15˚) and dynamic balance between the intervention group and control group during the 6 week period between stages. In addition, there were results confirming the lack of influence of length and dominant lower limb on valgus. Results of composite direction in the Y-Balance Test test determine the low risk of injury in both intervention and control groups. Conclusions Intervention did not affect the dynamic valgus and knee balance in young football players. Both the length and the dominant limb did not affect the results. The "low risk" occurrence of injuries among the examined participants with valgus knee due to the values of dynamic balance was determined.


2013 ◽  
Vol 5 (1) ◽  
pp. 35-38 ◽  
Author(s):  
Susankar Kumar Mondal ◽  
Md Ansar Ali ◽  
Md Kausar Alam ◽  
Kaniz Hasina ◽  
Abdur Rabban Talukder ◽  
...  

Background: Circumcision is the most common surgical procedure performed in boys through out the world. Meatal stenosis is one of its late complications. Objective: The aim of the present study is to see the effectiveness of use of lubricants vaseline-petrelium jelly) during arumcision meatal stenosis. Methodology: A randomized control trial was performed, in which two groups of boys younger than two years old underwent circumcision according to dissection (sleeve) method. The parents in the study groups were strictly instructed to use petroleum jelly on the meatus and circumcision site at every morning or after each diaper change where necessary for three months. On the other hand parents in the control group were instructed not to use any lubricants or topical medication on the same site. The boys were followed up regularly and evaluated for meatal stenosis, bleeding and infection. Results: A total of 120 boys were recruited & in each group comprised of 60 boys. None of the boys in the study group develop meatal stenosis , but 6(10%) in the control group develop meatal stenosis (p< 0.05 ). Infection of the circumcision site was seen in 1 (0.6%) and 3 (5%) children in the lubricant and control groups, respectively (p<0.05) and bleeding was seen in 3 (5.0%) and 6(10.0%) respectively. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, it seems logical to use a lubricant jelly for prevention of post circumcision meatal stenosis and other complications. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jssmc.v5i1.16204 J Shaheed Suhrawardy Med Coll, 2013;5(1):35-38


2018 ◽  
Vol 4 (111) ◽  
pp. 39-44
Author(s):  
Dalia Mickevičienė ◽  
Erika Masiulytė ◽  
Neringa Švedaitė

Background. The imbalance in many scientific sources is described as a major disorder in patients with a history of stroke. Often, the importance or disruption of torso control is also indicated on balance impairments. We believe that both physiotherapy programs will have impact on balance however better results on balance tests will be in group which balance training composed of unstable planes. Research aim was to measure impact of various physiotherapy programs on static and dynamic balance for patients after stroke. Methods. To evaluate changes of static and dynamic balance we used: Berg balance test, Tinetti test, PASS test, dynamic gait index, trunk impairment scale, special STREAM movements test for patients after stroke, Mini balance evaluation test for patients after stroke. Training methods of balance were for two different physiotherapy programs: intervention group (basic physiotherapy program with exercises on unstable planes) and control group (basic physiotherapy program with gait training elements). Results. When evaluating balance, results in both groups were almost equal, which shows that balance was disturbed and there was a huge risk of falls, moreover all patients walked with aid measures. At the beginning of rehabilitation, the average of all balance evaluating tests in both groups scored 16.92 and 15.05. All results were statistically significant (p < .05). At the end of research, variations between all test results were defined statistically significant. Repeatedly evaluating results of both groups at the end of rehabilitation, all test averages were improved: at the beginning, the intervention group average score was 16.92 and after rehabilitation, it was 34.79. For control group results, the average score of all tests was 15.05 and at the end it was 31.90. Summing up, it was established that in both groups balance in rehabilitation period improved. Conclusions. Physiotherapy programs based on exercises on unstable planes or gait training elements improve balance for patients after stroke. Many studies have confirmed the hypothesis of our study that using unstable planes or walking training methods improve balance, but for a statistically significant change in improving the balance, it will be necessary to use unstable planes.


SLEEP ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 44 (Supplement_2) ◽  
pp. A180-A181
Author(s):  
Mustafa Jafri ◽  
Gabrielle Rosa-Acosta ◽  
Jose Flores Martinez ◽  
Elizabeth Schofield ◽  
Cy Wilkins ◽  
...  

Abstract Introduction Untreated polycythemia leads to complications including thrombosis. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is commonly associated with secondary erythrocytosis, which testosterone therapy can perpetuate. Effects of positive airway pressure (PAP) on elevated hematocrit (HCT) is unknown. We hypothesize PAP adherence can reduce HCT in men with OSA and polycythemia. Methods Retrospective chart review of male outpatients with newly diagnosed OSA and HCT≥45% at or 3 months before polysomnography (PSG) was conducted. Intervention group consisted of patients initiating PAP for OSA. HCT within 6 months of PAP initiation and PSG were recorded for intervention and control groups, respectively. Primary endpoint was time-to-HCT reduction of HCT&lt;50% plus 3% decrease. Cox proportional-hazards analysis was used to assess time-to-HCT response. Demographics, smoking history, testosterone administration, STOP-Bang score, AHI, and PAP compliance data were obtained. Patients excluded if PAP not indicated, or if PSG, PAP compliance, or repeat HCT were unavailable. Results 41 men with OSA had HCT≥45%, of which 16 had HCT≥50%. Median age was 60 years and median BMI was 32 kg/m2. 28 started PAP. 21 met definition for PAP compliance within 6 months. Median AHI of intervention and control groups were 23 and 19 events/hr, respectively. Mean baseline HCT of both groups were 49 and 50, respectively. No significant difference in age, BMI, smoking history, testosterone therapy, and baseline HCT between both groups noted. 39% of intervention group exhibited HCT response at 1 or more longitudinal assessments, versus 38% of control. Intervention group had higher mean STOP-Bang than control (mean 5.9 vs. 4.6, p=0.01) and trended towards higher mean baseline AHI (27.4 vs. 19.0, p= 0.06). Time-to-event analysis controlling for STOP-Bang and AHI demonstrated PAP was not associated with time-to-HCT response (HR = 1.3, 95% CI = 0.4–4.4). In moderate-severe OSA patients, 40% of intervention group had HCT response compared to 14% of control, though difference was not significant (HR = 2.5, 95% CI = 0.3–20.0). Conclusion Moderate-severe OSA patients trended towards reduction in HCT with PAP, although not statistically significant. Testosterone administration did not affect HCT response to PAP in this cohort. Larger studies are required to determine HCT response to PAP in these patients. Support (if any):


Respiration ◽  
2021 ◽  
pp. 1-11
Author(s):  
Xiao Tang ◽  
Ying-Mei Feng ◽  
Ji-Xiang Ni ◽  
Jia-Ying Zhang ◽  
Li-Min Liu ◽  
...  

<b><i>Background:</i></b> There is still no clinical evidence available to support or to oppose corticosteroid treatment for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia. <b><i>Objective:</i></b> To investigate the efficacy and safety of corticosteroid given to the hospitalized patients with COVID-19 pneumonia. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> This was a prospective, multicenter, single-blind, randomized control trial. Adult patients with COVID-19 pneumonia who were admitted to the general ward were randomly assigned to either receive methylprednisolone or not for 7 days. The primary end point was the incidence of clinical deterioration 14 days after randomization. <b><i>Results:</i></b> We terminated this trial early because the number of patients with COVID-19 pneumonia in all the centers decreased in late March. Finally, a total of 86 COVID-19 patients underwent randomization. There was no difference of the incidence of clinical deterioration between the methylprednisolone group and control group (4.8 vs. 4.8%, <i>p</i> = 1.000). The duration of throat viral RNA detectability in the methylprednisolone group was 11 days (interquartile range, 6–16 days), which was significantly longer than that in the control group (8 days [2–12 days], <i>p</i> = 0.030). There were no significant differences between the 2 groups in other secondary outcomes. Mass cytometry discovered CD3<sup>+</sup> T cells, CD8<sup>+</sup> T cells, and NK cells in the methylprednisolone group which were significantly lower than those in the control group after randomization (<i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.05). <b><i>Conclusions:</i></b> From this prematurely closed trial, we found that the short-term early use of corticosteroid could suppress the immune cells, which may prolong severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 shedding in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia. <b><i>Trial Registration:</i></b> ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04273321.


Author(s):  
Matthew S. Chrisman ◽  
Robert Wright ◽  
William Purdy

Standing desks may reduce sedentary behaviors in college students. Students at one mid-size urban university in the Midwestern United States were randomized into intervention (n = 21) and control groups (n = 27) to assess standing time when given access to standing desks. The intervention group received visual and oral instructor prompts to stand, while the control received no prompts during a 50 min lecture. All students were provided with adjustable tabletop standing desks. ActivPAL accelerometers measured sitting and standing time. A brief survey assessed student preferences, including facilitators and barriers to standing. Mean standing time was greater in the intervention vs. control group (26 vs. 17 min, p = 0.023). Students tended to stand in the corners and edges of the room. Main facilitators for standing included to break up sitting, reduce back pain, and increase attention and focus; main barriers were not wanting to distract others or be the only one standing. In total, 87.5% of intervention group participants found five prompts to stand were adequate. Students increased standing time in class when provided with standing desks and instructor prompts to stand. Findings can inform the layout of classrooms and when and how to promote standing desks during lectures.


2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Yukari Isaka ◽  
Ai Hori ◽  
Rie Tanaka ◽  
Masao Ichikawa

Abstract Background The method of communicating a positive cancer screening result should seek to alleviate psychological distress associated with a positive result. We evaluated whether the provision of information through a leaflet would help reduce psychological distress in a randomized controlled trial. Methods The participants were women aged 20–69 years who were about to undergo cervical cancer screening at health centers. Before the screening, they received hypothetical screening results, with a leaflet (intervention group, n = 493) or without it (control group, n = 479), randomly. Their psychological distress and intention to undergo further examination were then compared between the intervention and control groups. Results After the intervention (providing a leaflet with hypothetical screening results), psychological distress appeared to be higher in the control group than in the intervention group among those who received a hypothetical positive screening result (odds ratio: 2.57, 95% confidence interval: 1.87–3.54), while 95% and 97% of those in the intervention and control groups, respectively, reported that they would undergo further examination. Conclusions Information provision might help reduce psychological distress but not hinder further examination among women who screen positive for cervical cancer. Trial registration: UMIN Clinical Trials Registry UMIN000029894. Date of Registration: November 2017.


Circulation ◽  
2012 ◽  
Vol 125 (suppl_10) ◽  
Author(s):  
Jaime Céspedes ◽  
German Briceño ◽  
Michael Farkouh ◽  
Rajesh Vedanthan ◽  
Martha Leal ◽  
...  

Introduction: Educational programs for children can increase uptake of healthy lifestyle behaviors. However, the impact of educational programs in preschool-aged children in low- and middle-income countries is not known. We conducted a five month educational intervention in preschool facilities (PF) in Bogota, Colombia, to assess changes in preschooler’s knowledge, attitudes and habits (KAH) towards healthy eating and living an active lifestyle. Methods: We conducted a cluster, randomized, controlled trial, and randomly assigned 14 PF in Bogota to a five-month educational intervention (7 PF) or to usual curriculum (7 PF). The intervention included classroom activities and use of printed material and videos. A total of 1216 pre-school children, 928 parents, and 120 teachers participated. A structured survey was used to evaluate changes in KAH with a weighted total score (WTS). The primary outcome was change in children's WTS, and the secondary outcomes were change in parents’ and teachers' WTS. The control PF were provided the intervention after the initial evaluation. To assess sustainability, we evaluated both intervention and control groups at 18 months. Results: At 6 months, children in the intervention group showed 10.9% increase in WTS vs. 5.3% in controls, p<0.001, after adjustment for cluster, sex, age and teachers' educational level. Among parents, the equivalent results were 8.9% and 3.1%, respectively, p< 0.001, and among teachers 9.4% and 2.5%, p=0.06. At the 18-month extended follow-up, both the intervention and control children showed a significant further increase in WTS, p<0.001 (Figure 1). In parents and teachers in the intervened group, there was no significant increase in WTS, p=0.7417, and p=0.1197. In the control group, there was an increase in WTS in teachers but not in parents, p=0.001, and p=0.4239. Conclusion: A preschool based intervention, aimed at changing KAH related to healthy diet and active lifestyle, is feasible, efficacious and sustainable up to 18 months in very young children in Colombia.


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