[ effect of soft cervical collar on movement response and anticipatory postural adjustment of postural muscle of neck following arm flexion during standing]

Neck pain is one of three common complains of neuromuscular system. There are three subsystem to maintain stability of spine: passive subsystem, active [muscles] subsystem and control subsystem. Detection of postural muscle response during postural perturbation like fast arm movement can be utilized to analyse of postural control. Wearing cervical collars is a way to prevent or cure cervical pain. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of soft cervical collar on movement response and duration of activity and recruitment pattern of cervical muscles. Twenty healthy young women participated in this study. They flex right shoulder in response to sound stimulus with and without wearing soft cervical collar. Surface Electromyography [EMG] used to assess postural muscle activity in following muscles: Deltoid, Trapezius, Cervical Erector spinae and Sternocleidomastoid. The effect of soft cervical collar on reaction time, onset and duration of activity of cervical muscles was calculated, Wearing soft cervical collar increased reaction time of arm flexion [P< 0.05] and decreased duration of activity of cervical extensor, trapezius and erector spinae [P< 0.05]. During shoulder flexion with additional load, onset activity of trapezius muscle was significantly earlier than other neck muscles but cervical erector spinae and Sternocleidomastoid exhibit coactivation pattern in response to perturbation. During fast arm movement that leads to postural perturbation, soft cervical collar alleviates the response and reduce activity of muscles. The strategy of motor control centers in response to perturbation in cervical spine is coactivation of flexor and extensor muscles to maintain stability

effects of simultaneous activation of exteroception and proprioception on function of upper extremity in children with diplegic spastic cerebral palsy, 3-7 years old

The role of function of upper extremity in activity of daily living is critical and any impairment of function could cause major problems for diplegic spastic cerebral palsy [CP] patients. So, the application of rehabilitation protocols that could regain the hand function is very important. The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of simultaneous activation of exteroception and proprioception on function of upper extremity in children with diplegic spastic CP, 3-7 years old. Thirteen CP patients [3-7 years; mean: 4.92 years; 4 boys and 9 girls] were participated in this study. Simultaneous activation of exteroception and proprioception were done 3 times a week [for 8 weeks]. Function of upper extremity was evaluated by Quest Test and the degree of spasticity in wrist was evaluated by Modified Ashworth Scale. The results of this study showed that after simultaneous activation of exteroception and proprioception, function of upper extremity was significantly improved [P<0.001]. In addition, degree of spasticity in wrist muscles was significantly decreased [P<0.022]. Based on results of current study, it might be suggested that simultaneous activation of exteroception and proprioception could improve the function of upper extremity and decrease of spasticity. This in respect could reduce the disabilities of patients. So, the application of current protocols for the patients is suggested

[Couples' Knowledge and attitude about sexuality in pregnancy]

Alteration in pattern of sexuality is known to be impressed by couples' believes about women's physical and psychological changes during pregnancy. The objective of this study is to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of couples about sexual relations during pregnancy. In a descriptive study from February to April 2005, two hundred sixty six consecutive pregnant women referring to a university hospital were asked to answer a questionnaire containing questions their sexual status and some demographic data. In 122 cases the answers of the spouses was collected also. The answers were compared in divided groups according to age range, duration of marriage, parity and educational status. Fifty five percent of men and fifty eight percent of women had a negative attitude about sexual relations during pregnancy, and 60% of men and 75% of women presented incorrect knowledge about sexuality during pregnancy. Main reasons for decreased sexual relations in pregnancy were mentioned to be dysparaunia, and the fear of trauma to the baby, abortion, membrane rapture, preterm labor and infection. As couples' knowledge and attitudes about sexuality affect their general sexual behavior during pregnancy it is crucial to provide proper consultation regarding sexual relations in prenatal care services