bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A study of perceived facilitators to physical activity in neurological conditions
Authors: Elsworth Charlotte , Dawes Helen , Sackley Catherine , Soundy Andrew , Howells Ken , Wade Derick , Hilton-Jones David , Freebody Jane , Izadi Hooshang 
Published: May 2014

Aims The study aimed to determine the opinions of individuals with neurological conditions on factors facilitating their physical activity participation. Methods Four condition-specific focus groups (muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, motor neurone disease and Parkinson's disease) were run with a total of 24 people. Themes that emerged were used to create an eight-item self-completed questionnaire, which explored barriers to participation, preferred activities and support networks. A cross-sectional survey was then conducted using this questionnaire with individuals with a range of neurological conditions. Findings Three themes categories emerged from the focus groups: ‘opinions of physical activity’, ‘barriers to physical activity’, and ‘factors that would encourage increased physical activity involvement’. Of the 115 distributed questionnaires, 80 (70%) responses were received. Swimming, stretching and walking were the three most popular activities. The most common barriers were embarrassment, perceived lack of condition-specific knowledge of the fitness professionals about neurological disease and the impact of that on exercise advice. Facilitators were use of specific groupbased exercise sessions and the presence of specifically trained staff. Conclusions People with neurological conditions enjoy participating in physical activity but reported several barriers that prevent their participation in exercise. Respondents identified barriers and facilitators in functional, psychological and environmental domains. It is important that healthcare professionals and fitness professionals identify and remove these barriers to promote greater participation in exercise among people with neurological conditions.
Establishing a Health Qigong protocol for rehabilitation of patients with COPD
Authors: Ng Bobby HP , Tsang Hector WH 
Published: May 2014

Aims This two-phased pilot study intended to validate the potential therapeutic values and applicability of a Health Qigong protocol as an alternative home exercise programme for patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD), and test its safety before proceeding to a randomized controlled trial. Methods Eight experts in the area of pulmonary rehabilitation and traditional Chinese medicine were recruited to evaluate the Health Qigong protocol using a questionnaire specifically designed for the purpose. The safety of this protocol was then tested among eight participants with COPD in a field test. Safety indicators included physiological parameters, including pulse, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, as well as perceived symptoms. Results All experts recognized that there were potential benefits of the Health Qigong protocol, and made suggestions as to how the protocol could be revised for COPD patients. No serious adverse event was reported in the field test. Conclusions The Health Qigong protocol is safe when applied to patients with COPD and has potential to be used an adjunct intervention in rehabilitation of COPD. The results support progression to the randomized controlled trial.
An exploratory study of physiotherapy telephone assessment
Authors: Turner Diane 
Published: May 2014

Aims The popular adoption of self referral to physiotherapy across the United Kingdom has increased the use of the telephone as a means of accessing the service. This relies on the physiotherapist's ability to make an accurate diagnosis, leading to an appropriate management decision and thus facilitating the best possible outcome for the patient. This study examined the agreement between telephone and face-to-face management of musculoskeletal conditions and assessed the accuracy of diagnosis over the telephone. Methods 55 patients with musculoskeletal conditions were assessed over the telephone and then face to face. Patients were assigned to either a physiotherapist with less than 2 years of experience (n=33) or to a physiotherapist with over 4 years of experience (n=22). The physiotherapist on the telephone and the physiotherapist in the department made independent diagnoses (clinical impression) and management decisions. Inter-examiner agreement between the telephone and face-to-face management decisions was measured (Kappa coefficient values), and the Fisher's Exact test was used to measure agreement between the provisional telephone diagnosis and the final department diagnosis. Findings Kappa values showed poor agreement for junior staff for the management decision (64% agreement; κ-value of 0.27) and fair to good agreement for experienced staff (91% agreement; κ-value of 0.70). Agreement on diagnosis was good and there was not a significant difference between the junior staff (85%) and experienced staff (91%) (Fisher's Exact test 0.30). Conclusions Findings indicate that diagnosis over the telephone appears to be comparable with face-to-face diagnosis. However, management of musculoskeletal conditions by telephone, particularly by less experienced members of staff, was found to compare less favourably with face-to-face management. Given the growth of telephone assessment in physiotherapy, it is suggested that further research is required to explore its ability to provide an effective and efficient service.
Developing high performing employment services for people with mental illness
Authors: Browne Deborah J , Stephenson Adel , Wright Jules , Waghorn Geoffrey 
Published: May 2014

Aims This analysis examined employment outcomes achieved by a supported employment service in Hawke's Bay, New Zealand. The evaluation aimed to identify opportunities and challenges for ongoing service development, and to demonstrate how other employment services can use these methods and benchmarks in service development. Methods Service performance over 4 years was examined on multiple levels, and compared with outcomes recently reported by published international controlled trials with high fidelity to evidence-based practice in supported employment. Findings As a segregated supported employment service, there were no formal arrangements to coordinate employment services with local mental health services. Despite this limitation, the service was high performing on a range of employment outcome variables. Conclusions With challenging economic times ahead, this analysis provides a timely framework for allied health professionals, supported employment and vocational rehabilitation service providers, to review their operations in comparison to established evidence-based practices and international performance benchmarks.
Sample size and power calculations made simple
Authors: McCrum-Gardner Evie 
Published: May 2014

Background Sample size estimation is an important concern for researchers as guidelines must be adhered to for ethics committees, grant applications and publications. Studies may be underpowered (too few participants) or overpowered (too many participants) so it is important to achieve the correct balance. Content The process of sample size calculations, including relevant definitions, is explained and clear examples for different study designs are provided for illustration. A range of software packages and websites are discussed and evaluated. Conclusions The information regarding sample sizes and statistical programs should be useful for researchers in order to perform sample size calculations for research projects.
A qualitative study of work participation in early rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Codd Yvonne , Stapleton Tadhg , Veale Douglas J , FitzGerald Oliver , Bresnihan Barry 
Published: May 2014

Aims This article details a qualitative study aiming to explore the impact of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) on participation in paid work during the first two years after diagnosis. Methods In-depth semi-structured interviews using the Model of Human Occupation Worker Role Interview were used to explore the impact of a diagnosis of RA on the participant's lived experience, the meaning of work from the participant's point of view, and whether there was any change in perception or attitude towards work and work ability since diagnosis. Qualitative methods were felt to be appropriate to capture the lived experience of participation and engagement in work. Interviews were conducted on entry to the study and were repeated at six-month follow-up. Transcripts from the interviews were subjected to interpretative phenomenological analysis. Findings Ten individuals with RA in paid employment participated in the study. The mean age was 38 years. The mean duration from diagnosis was 14.2 months. Participants identified work-specific changes and external lifestyle alterations made early in the disease trajectory to support maintenance of the worker role. The personal meaning of work and the importance of the worker role in shaping self-identity emerged as an important factor in determining work participation. Qualitative factors influenced the type and extent of changes made to work and determined the impact of RA on work. These findings suggest that from early in the disease course RA influences the individual's normal lifestyle and work participation. Conclusions Qualitative assessment of work participation demonstrated that paid work was affected in the early phase of RA. Work intervention needs to shift to encompass such factors which influence maintenance of the worker role.
Will occupational science facilitate or divide the practice of occupational therapy?
Authors: Pollard Nick , Sakellariou Dikaios , Lawson-Porter Anne 
Published: May 2014

Background Prompted by a study day at last year's European Network of Occupational Therapists in Higher Education conference, this article explores the relationship between occupational therapy and occupational science in the context of the future development of the profession. Content The authors consider some of the challenges currently being expressed within occupational therapy, particularly the move to define the profession in terms of its ‘origins in social transformation’, and the difficulties arising from its position in relation to a biomedical hierarchy. Conclusions The authors conclude that occupational science may have much to offer but this underpinning knowledge base is not without additional challenges for a profession which is concerned with aspects of doing.
Pain intensity, self-efficacy and physical performance in patients with chronic low back pain
Authors: Adegoke BOA , Ezeukwu AO 
Published: May 2014

Aim This article describes a study investigating the relationship between pain intensity, self-efficacy and physical performance in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP) receiving physiotherapy at selected hospitals in Nigeria. Methods One hundred and forty-two patients (86 female, 56 male) recruited from the out-patient units of the physiotherapy departments of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital and the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Enugu participated in the study. The pain intensity in the low back, self-efficacy and physical performance of patients with CLBP were assessed using the Box Numerical Scale, Chronic Pain Self-Efficacy Scale and Back Performance Scale respectively. Results The participants were aged 48.05 ± 12.66 years (range 21–65). There was no significant correlation (r=0.051; P=0.548) between pain intensity and physical performance, but significant negative correlations were obtained between self-efficacy domain scores and physical performance (r values range from -0.239 to -0.414; P values range from 0.000 to 0.004). Self-efficacy for physical function was the only self-efficacy subscale/domain that had no significant correlation (r=0.030; P=0.719) with pain intensity. Conclusions An increase in self-efficacy was significantly related to improvement in the physical performance of patients with CLBP, or vice versa. Only the self-efficacy domain of physical function was not significantly related with pain intensity. Recommendations were made for the incorporation of assessment of pain self-efficacy levels in the management of CLBP patients, as well as for the development of strategies to improve it clinically.
Additive effect of interferential therapy over pelvic floor exercises
Authors: Patil Shubhangi P , Nagrale Amit V , Ganvir Shyam D 
Published: May 2014

Aim Genuine stress urinary incontinence (GSI) is a common, disruptive and potentially disabling condition in which involuntary loss of urine occurs as a result of stress, and in the absence of involuntary detrusor contractions. The purpose of this trial was to investigate the additive effect of interferential therapy over pelvic floor exercises alone, in the management of genuine stress urinary incontinence. Methods One hundred and two women suffering from GSI were randomized into one of two 4-week physical therapy programmes. Fifty two women had interferential therapy (IFT) as well as doing set pelvic floor exercises (PFM), while 50 women did the pelvic floor exercises, without any undergoing other treatment. The relevant treatment/exercises were done three times a week for 4 weeks, totalling 12 treatment sessions. The outcomes of interest, including one hour pad test, frequency volume chart, quality of life questionnaire and a visual analogue score for incontinence were collected at baseline, 1-week, 2-weeks, 3-weeks and 4-weeks after initiation of therapy. Results The results revealed significant (p<0.05) improvement for all outcome measures in each group. Significantly (p<0.05) greater improvements were detected in the group which combined pelvic floor exercises with IFT. Conclusions The findings of the present study indicate a potential benefit to including IFT with pelvic floor exercises when treating GSI.
Physiotherapy and ergonomics for a work-related musculoskeletal disorder
Authors: Chetty Laran 
Published: May 2014

Aims The purpose of this case was to report on the physiotherapy and ergonomic roles for a workrelated musculoskeletal disorder. Methods A 29-year old male employee presented complaining of neck and right upper trapezius pain following prolonged periods at his workstation. Findings Following intervention, positive changes were noted in outcome measures such as pain, work status and activities of daily living. Conclusion Physiotherapy intervention combined with ergonomic consideration was beneficial in addressing the work-related musculoskeletal disorder.
Soleus stretch reflex in subjects with cerebrovascular accident
Authors: Agostinucci James , Lyons Haleigh 
Published: May 2014

AimsThe conclusion that circumferential pressure decreases reflex activity in subjects with neuromuscular disorders including cerebrovascular accidents has recently come under scrutiny due to the methods used to analyze its effects. Thus far, studies used to determine circumferential pressure's efficacy on motor neuron reflex excitability have mainly used the H-reflex technique on resting muscle. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect that circumferential pressure has on the soleus stretch reflex (SSR) when superimposed onto a voluntary ramp movement in patients with cerebrovascular accident (CVA).MethodsThirteen patients with CVA volunteered for this study. SSR's were investigated before, during and after the application of pressure to the calf. Twenty-five SSR's were recorded and averaged for each experimental phase. Peak to peak amplitudes were measured and then normalized for comparisons. Reflex latencies were also measured. Friedman Repeated Measures Analysis of Variance on Ranks were used to analyze the differences in SSR latency and amplitude from baseline values.FindingsPatients with CVA showed a decrease of 35% (P<0.006) in SSR mean amplitude. Postpressure values and latencies were not significantly different from baseline values.ConclusionsThe results show circumferential pressure has an inhibitory effect on spinal cord muscular reflexes for patients with CVA and may be used as a supplement to other treatments in temporarily reducing spinal cord reflex related muscle activity associated with a neurological dysfunction
Participatory research. Part 2: practical considerations
Authors: Northway Ruth 
Published: May 2014

Background Participatory research can make heavy demands upon both the researcher and the community with whom they work. Nonetheless it can also be a very rewarding process for all involved, and lead to real changes. It is thus important that a number of issues are considered and addressed, both before the research commences, and during the life of the research project. Content This paper explores five key areas – participatory, ethical, financial, time and personal considerations. In each instance, the personal experience of the author, as well as wider literature is used to explore the practical issues which need to be identified and managed. Conclusions While not all research will be participatory, consideration of these issues should assist readers in developing participatory research studies, and can inform other types of research.
Highly satisfied or eager to please? Assessing satisfaction among allied health outpatients
Authors: Harding Katherine E , Taylor Nicholas F 
Published: May 2014

Aims This article details a study into measuring patient satisfaction among patients attending acute outpatient physiotherapy and occupational therapy services at a large metropolitan health service. Methods Patients were invited to complete an anonymous written survey incorporating the MedRisk Instrument for Patient Satisfaction with Physical Therapy Care (MRPS), and two open questions regarding positive and negative aspects of their experience. Findings One-hundred and sixty-five responses were received. Respondents reported themselves to be very satisfied with the service they received with an overall satisfaction rating of 4.8 out of 5 on the MRPS. Almost half of patient comments on positive aspects of care concerned factors relating to personal interactions. Issues related to waiting areas featured most highly in suggestions for improvement. Conclusions Although the high rates of satisfaction were encouraging, they are consistent with previous findings that research of this type tends to result in high rates of reported satisfaction, and is subject to various forms of bias. The responses to the open questions were, perhaps, more informative, reinforcing previous findings that interpersonal interactions and short waiting times are important to satisfaction, and that improving waiting areas and communicating delays may be simple measures that could improve the patient experience.
The influence of two rehabilitation protocols in upper-limb function of stroke patients
Authors: Rosa Marlene , Vasconcelos Olga , Marques Alda 
Published: May 2014

AimsA significant decrease in upper-limb functionality occurs after stroke. There are two different approaches to the upper-limb rehabilitation of stroke patients: unilateral and bilateral protocols. The main aim of this study was to assess the differences in the functionality of the hemiparetic upper-limb between individuals with chronic hemiparesis submitted to a unilateral protocol and those submitted to a bilateral protocol.MethodsEight individuals with stroke and chronic hemiparesis were recruited and randomly assigned to one of two groups (four participants in each group). All participants were observed over a period of six weeks, and were evaluated at four different moments of the intervention protocol using the Fulg-Meyer Assessment Scale (FM) (Fulg-Meyer et al, 1975) and the Purdue Pegboard (PP) (Tiffin, 1948). The statistical procedures included percentage evolution and descriptive analysis for each participant.FindingsThe findings suggest that the unilateral protocol provides better results, when compared with the bilateral protocol.ConclusionsThis study suggests that unilateral protocols are at least as effective as bilateral protocols for hemiparetic upper-limb rehabilitation.
Facilitating independence in personal activities of daily living after a severe traumatic brain injury
Authors: Kelly Fiona , Nikopoulos Christos K 
Published: May 2014

Aims This study examined the effectiveness of two components of a treatment programme typically used by occupational therapists (OTs) in personal activities of daily living (PADL) rehabilitation. Methods A multiple baseline probe design across PADL tasks was used, one which is particularly suited to the examination of the effects of complex interventions on skill performance. The subjects were two male adults with severe brain injuries and cognitive impairments who were in the acute stages of recovery. The OT treatment program consisted of a combination of errorless learning and strategy training approaches. The impact of the program was measured by the number of steps completed independently in each of these tasks, the level and type of assistance required, and by administering the UK Functional Independence Measure and the Assessment of Motor and Process Skills. Findings Errorless learning and strategy training, as used within an OT programme, was demonstrated to be effective in reducing the amount of assistance both participants required to complete the targeted PADL tasks. Further, there was evidence of generalization of training effects among trained and untrained activities. Conclusions Selecting and combining treatment techniques based on detailed assessment of functional performance is an area of high clinical importance but with limited research; the current study stands as an attempt towards that direction.
Patient/carer perceptions of disability in motor neurone disease and carer coping
Authors: Ng Louisa , Kee Kirk , Amatya Bhasker , Khan Fary 
Published: May 2014

Aims: To compare patient- and carer-reported disability in motor neurone disease (MND) using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF); and to describe carer burden, psychological coping, and quality of life. Methods: A prospective cross-sectional survey of MND patients (n=44) and carers (n=37). Their MND-related problems were linked with ICF categories (second level) using open-ended questionnaires and ‘linkage rules’. Standardized assessments measured carer psychological coping (depression/anxiety/ stress), strain/burden, quality of life (QoL), and coping strategies. Findings: MND patients were older than their carers (mean age 61, carers 57) there were more male patients than carers (66%, carers 27%). Most carers were spouses/partners (89%). MND patients identified 70 ICF categories whereas carers identified 8: body function 15 (carers 0); body structure 5 (carers 0); activities and participation 40 (carers 6); environmental factors 10 (carers 2). Main ICF categories in activities and participation linked by patients and carers were general tasks and demands, mobility, self-care, community, social and civic life. Environmental factors included support and relationships, services, systems and policies. Carer psychological coping and burden were significant, but self-reported QoL for carers was good, possibly related to use of problem-focused coping strategies. Conclusions: ICF adequately incorporates perspectives of MND patients and carers, which may enable development of a ‘core set’ (ICF categories selected by experts that list issues in impairment, disability, participation, and environmental factors that need to be addressed in multidisciplinary care settings) to optimize care. Reduction in carer burden will optimize outcomes for MND carers and patients.