Movement-Based Therapies in Rehabilitation

Is Pilates effective in improving depressive disorders? A comprehensive overview

Depressive disorders are disabling conditions that account for high social costs. Pilates demonstrated to have several beneficial effects on health. Objective of this manuscript was to systematically review the literature about the effects of Pilates on depressive disorders. A bibliographic search was conducted in the main database sources (Pubmed, Medline, and Scopus). The inclusion criteria consisted of articles written in English language about the effectiveness of Pilates on depressive symptoms. Most of included studies are randomized controlled trials (10 out of 12). The available literature agrees in indicating that Pilates is effective in improving depressive symptoms especially when compared to inactivity and when this practice is administered for a medium-long period (8-16 weeks). In addition, Pilates seems to have at least comparable effectiveness than aerobic exercise. Pilates can be considered a reliable complementary treatment for people with depressive disorders. These findings should be interpreted considering the different types of practice administered as well as the different duration of the programs or rating scales used to assess mood symptoms. Studies with a more homogenous design are needed to confirm and make generalizable the results presented in this review.

Construction of neural network model for exercise load monitoring based on yoga training data and rehabilitation therapy

The Internet of Things is based on the traditional Internet and its purpose is to achieve information exchange between users and devices, as well as between devices. The rapid development of sensor technology, communication network technology, and computer technology has enriched the coverage of the Internet of Things, including a wide range of intelligent applications such as healthcare, smart cities, and smart homes. The development of high-performance computing and machine learning technologies has promoted the wide application of intelligent auxiliary systems in sports medicine. With the rapid development of yoga in the field of sports, athletes can play the various functions of yoga, improve their physical strength and quality, and improve their strength, flexibility, etc., cultivate positive, optimistic, and healthy emotions, and these are conducive to rehabilitation treatment after sports injuries. Therefore, it is feasible and feasible to introduce yoga training into the monitoring of the exercise load of athletes. In this paper, neural network technology was used to break the traditional training method based on experience. Based on yoga training data, through experimental exercise research, it could explore a new effective way to monitor exercise load and rehabilitation treatment, and build an exercise load monitoring model of the Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) neural network. By sorting out the data, statistics and analysis of the data, this article confirmed the effect of yoga training on reducing fatigue after exercise. The experimental results showed that the prediction value obtained by the ACO neural network model was 9.106, and the error was only -0.003 compared to the actual detection value of 9.109. This result showed that the ACO neural network model can perfectly fit the functional relationship between yoga training level and exercise load and has high prediction accuracy. This also marked that the development of high-performance computing systems has entered a new journey in the field of sports and health.

Dropout From Exercise Interventions in Adults With Fibromyalgia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To meta-analyze the prevalence and predictors of dropout rates among adults with fibromyalgia participating in exercise randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

DATA SOURCES

Two authors searched Embase, CINAHL, PsycARTICLES, and Medline up to 01/21/2023.

STUDY SELECTION

We included RCTs of exercise interventions in people with fibromyalgia that reported dropout rates.

DATA EXTRACTION

Dropout rates from exercise and control conditions and exerciser/participant, provider, and design/implementation related predictors.

DATA SYNTHESIS

A random effects meta-analysis and meta-regression were conducted. In total, 89 RCTs involving 122 exercise arms in 3.702 people with fibromyalgia were included. The trim-and-fill-adjusted prevalence of dropout across all RCTs was 19.2% (95% CI=16.9%-21.8%), which is comparable with the dropout observed in control conditions with the trim-and-fill-adjusted odds ratio being 0.31 (95% CI=0.92-1.86, P=.44). Body mass index (R2=0.16, P=.03) and higher effect of illness (R2=0.20, P=.02) predicted higher dropout. The lowest dropout was observed in exergaming, compared with other exercise types (P=.014), and in lower-intensity exercises, compared with high intensity exercise (P=.03). No differences in dropout were observed for the frequency or duration of the exercise intervention. Continuous supervision by an exercise expert (eg, physiotherapist) resulted in the lowest dropout rates (P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Exercise dropout in RCTs is comparable with control conditions, suggesting that exercise is a feasible and accepted treatment modality; however, interventions are ideally supervised by an expert (eg, physiotherapist) to minimize the risk of dropout. Experts should consider a high BMI and the effect of the illness as risk factors for dropout.

[Restorative capability of traditional Chinese medicine in autoimmune diseases of nervous system: a literature review]

Autoimmune diseases of the nervous system are characterized by the formation of pronounced neurological deficiency and often lead to disability. Complementary medicine as an adjuvant or preventive therapy of various diseases, including autoimmune ones, is increasingly attracting the attention of doctors and researchers. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a complex of treatment methods, including acupuncture, phytotherapy, nutrition, physical exercises and other methods that are often used in common with the recognized approaches of the official medical science. The article describes the TCM methods application in autoimmune diseases of nervous system, presents the practical experience of using acupuncture, phytotherapy, diet, physical exercises. It was concluded that TCM is important and frequently underestimated health care resource, especially in prevention and treatment of autoimmune diseases of nervous system.

Effects of a music-based exercise program on the postural balance and emotions of instrumentalists

This study aimed to verify the effects of a music-based exercise program on postural balance and emotional factors among instrumentalists. We recruited 11 instrumentalists aged 25-45 years who were asked to perform a music-based exercise program for 60 min per session, three sessions weekly, for 8 weeks. The anterior balance and lateral alignment of the participants were determined using a body posture analyzer. To assess the emotional factors, the World Health Organization Quality of Life, stress response inventory, and Rosenberg self-esteem scale were used. This study did not reveal a statistically significant difference in anterior postural imbalance and lateral misalignment. In contrast, emotional factors, including quality of life, stress response, and the self-esteem subcategories, exhibited significant differences. The music-based exercise program in this study significantly improved the emotional factors. Nevertheless, a more structured and long-term program should be developed to ensure the improvement of postural imbalance among instrumentalists.

Experiencing COMFORT: Perceptions of Virtually-delivered Nonpharmacologic Therapies in Adults Prescribed Opioids for Chronic Pain

BACKGROUND

An opioid task force within an urban public health district sought to increase access to, and utilization of, non-opioid, nonpharmacologic alternatives for pain management.

AIMS

The COMFORT (Community-engaged Options to Maximize and Facilitate Opioid ReducTion) study was designed to provide virtual multidimensional integrated nonpharmacologic therapies via a cloud-based videoconferencing platform over six weeks to adults with chronic pain who were prescribed an opioid to investigate measurable health improvements.

METHODS

A qualitative descriptive analysis explored participants' experiences of a novel pain management intervention. A total of 19 participants consented to participate in the study and 15 completed six virtual consultations with either yoga, massage, chiropractic, or physical therapists. Semi-structured exit interviews were conducted, and data analyzed using content analysis.

RESULTS

Five main themes were identified, including unmet pain needs, self-care practices, incentive for participation, perception of a virtual environment, and benefits of the intervention. All participants reported at least minor benefits, with about half reporting improvement in pain levels, and some were able to reduce their opioid use. A virtual environment posed challenges for a few participants who found it more difficult to engage with than in-person therapy; others found the platform easy to navigate.

CONCLUSIONS

Participants with chronic pain were open and willing to try a novel way to access nonpharmacologic consultations to address unmet pain needs. Virtual consultations with pain management experts may increase access to, and utilization of, complementary and integrative treatment modalities.

Are movement-based mindful exercises (QIGONG, TAI CHI, AND YOGA) beneficial for stroke and Parkinson's disease? A scoping review

OBJECTIVE

To synthesize evidence from systematic reviews on the effects of qigong, tai chi, and yoga in people with neurological diseases.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, CINAHL and Cochrane Library until September 2022. Methodological quality was assessed using the AMSTAR 2 tool. A qualitative synthesis of included reviews and meta-analyses was performed. Citation matrices and the corrected covered area were used to explore the overlap of randomized controlled trials among reviews.

RESULTS

Nineteen systematic reviews (containing 74 trials and 80 meta-analyses) in people with Parkinson's disease (PD) or stroke were included. The critical domains of the AMSTAR 2 were not satisfied in more than half of the reviews, and only 4 evaluated the certainty of the evidence. The overlap was very high (21.7%) and high (11%) for tai chi studies in PD and stroke, respectively. In people with PD, qigong, yoga, and tai chi can improve balance, with tai chi being beneficial to increase functional mobility. For stroke patients, tai chi was better than controls to enhance motor function and independence, but not for health-related quality of life and quality of sleep. Findings on balance, walking ability and depression were inconclusive in stroke population.

CONCLUSIONS

Qigong, tai chi, and yoga appear to be effective to improve balance performance in people with PD. Tai chi practice enhances motor function and independency in stroke patients.

Group Acupuncture Therapy With Yoga Therapy for Chronic Neck, Low Back, and Osteoarthritis Pain in Safety Net Settings for an Underserved Population: A Feasibility Pilot Study

Background

Acupuncture and yoga have both been shown to be effective in chronic pain. Underrepresented populations have poorer pain outcomes with less access to effective pain care.

Objective

To assess the feasibility of bundling group acupuncture with yoga therapy for chronic neck, back or osteoarthritis pain in safety net settings.

Methods

This was a feasibility pilot in Bronx and Harlem primary care community health centers. Participants with chronic neck, back or osteoarthritis pain received acupuncture and yoga therapy over a 10-week period. Participants received 10 weekly acupuncture treatments in group setting; with Yoga therapy sessions beginning immediately following the 3rd session. Primary outcome was pain interference and pain intensity on the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI); Outcomes were measured at baseline, 10-week close of intervention, and 24-week follow-up.

Results

93 patients were determined to be eligible and completed the baseline interview. The majority of participants were non-White and Medicaid recipients. 78 (84%) completed the intervention and 10-week survey, and 58 (62%) completed the 24-week post intervention survey. Participants received an average number of 6.5 acupuncture sessions (out of a possible 10), and 4 yoga sessions (out of a possible 8) over the 10-week intervention. Patients showed statistically significant improvements in pain at the close of the intervention and at a somewhat lesser rate, at 24-weeks post intervention. Challenges included telephone outreach and site coordination integrating acupuncture with yoga therapy. The trial also had to be stopped early due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusions

Bundling acupuncture therapy and yoga therapy is feasible for an underrepresented population with chronic pain in urban community health centers with preliminary indications of acceptability and benefit to participants.

Effectiveness and safety of Tai Chi for anxiety disorder of COVID-19: A protocol of systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Anxiety disorders pose a significant threat to the clinical rehabilitation of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Tai Chi is a therapeutic exercise that can be used to treat anxiety disorders. We aim to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Tai Chi for treating patients with anxiety disorders caused by COVID-19.

METHODS

The PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chinese Biomedical Literature, Wan Fang, and Chinese Clinical Trial Registry databases will be searched for reports of randomized controlled trials on Tai Chi for the treatment of anxiety disorders caused by COVID-19, published from December 1, 2019, to August 22, 2022. Two researchers will screen the articles and extract the relevant information.

RESULTS

The results will provide a systematic overview of the current evidence on the use of Tai Chi to treat anxiety disorders caused by COVID-19 among patients.

CONCLUSION

The conclusions of this study will help clarify whether Tai Chi is effective and safe for treating anxiety disorders caused by COVID-19.

Effects of Pilates Training on Physiological and Psychological Health Parameters in Healthy Older Adults and in Older Adults With Clinical Conditions Over 55 Years: A Meta-Analytical Review

This meta-analytical review aimed at comparing the impact of Pilates interventions (PIs) on physiological and psychological health parameters in healthy older adults and older adults with a clinical condition aged 55 years and older. The literature search was conducted in three databases (PubMed, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus). Randomized controlled trials that aimed at improving physiological and psychological health parameters in adults aged 55 years and older using Pilates as an intervention were screened for eligibility. The included data was extracted and assigned based on participants' health condition (clinical vs. non-clinical), as well as the respective control condition used in the study [inactive (IC) vs. active control group (AC)]. Statistical analyses were computed using a random-effects inverse-variance model. Fifty-one studies with a total of 2,485 participants (mean age: 66.5 ± 4.9 years) were included. Moderate effects (SMD: 0.55; 0.68) were found for physiological health parameters (muscle strength, balance, endurance, flexibility, gait, and physical functioning) in both experimental (clinical and non-clinical) conditions when compared to ICs (p < 0.003; p = 0.0001), and small to moderate effects (SMD: 0.27; 0.50) when compared to ACs (p = 0.04; p = 0.01). Moderate to large effects (SMD: 0.62; 0.83) were documented for psychological health parameters (quality of life, depression, sleep quality, fear of falling, pain, and health perception) in both conditions when compared to ICs (p < 0.001, p < 0.001). PIs induce small to large effects in physiological and psychological health parameters in older adults, regardless of their health condition. The substantial heterogeneity within the included studies complicated standardized comparison of the training modalities between the two target groups. Nonetheless, Pilates seems to be a safe, adaptable, and promising exercise approach for a heterogenous population of older adults.

Additive effect of "Brahma Mudra" on pain, proprioception and functional abilities in non-specific mechanical neck pain

OBJECTIVE

Being the second highest musculoskeletal problem irrespective of age, gender and occupation, the etiology of neck pain is predominantly mechanical in nature. This can lead to dysfunction with time and recurrence. Altered joint position sense (JPS) from soft tissues can alter the cervical biomechanics by compromising the cephalo spatial orientation, which depends on the visual, vestibular and proprioceptive cues. This study was done to observe the additive effect of "Brahma mudra" (BM) a yogic tool on non-specific mechanical neck pain and its clinical implication on pain, proprioception and functional abilities.

METHODS

It was a quasi-experimental pre -post study design involving 30 individuals from a software firm between the age group of 18-45 years. The conventional treatment group received standard physiotherapy regime and in the BM group BM was incorporated in addition to standard physiotherapy regime. Independent sample student t-test/Mann Whitney test were used to compare continuous variables between two groups. Paired sample test/Wilcoxon signed rank test were used for within groups.

RESULTS

There was a significant reduction in pain, improved functional abilities and proprioception in BM group when compared to conventional treatment group with 0.01 level of statistical significance.

CONCLUSION

It may be concluded that practice of BM had an added effect to conventional standard physiotherapy regime in reduction of pain, improvement of proprioception and functional abilities among individuals with chronic non-specific mechanical neck pain.

Tele-Integrative Medicine to Support Rehabilitative Care

Complementary and integrative health (CIH) modalities have therapeutic value in the multidisciplinary rehabilitation of chronic pain patients. Evidence of such has been seen with the Whole Health Model at the (Veterans Affairs) VA Healthcare system. CIH therapies, including yoga, tai chi, mindfulness meditation, hypnosis, self-massage, and acupressure, are significantly effective for managing chronic pain with little to no negative effects, and can be easily incorporated into telemedicine care with great potential benefit. The future of wellness in telemedicine is evolving with great potential, and needs further attention to addressing barriers of care.