ABSTRACT
Background: The hand is the most active and important part of the upper extremity with complex functional biomechanics and anatomy. The decline in hand grip strength and dexterity with age can adversely affect functional activities. Task?oriented training (TOT) is a treatment approach focused on functional activities of daily life. Aim: To investigate the effect of TOT on hand dexterity, grip strength, and hand function in the geriatric population. Subjects and Methods: Sixteen institutionalized geriatric participants were recruited based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria and assigned to Group A experimental group (nine participants) who received TOT for 4 weeks, 3 days/week along with routine activities and Group B control group (seven participants) who were involved in routine activities only. Gross dexterity was assessed using the box and block test, fine dexterity with nine?hole peg board, hand grip strength with hand dynamometer, and hand function with the Michigan hand outcome questionnaire. The statistical analysis with Student’s t?test was performed using the SPSS software. The significance level kept as P ? 0.05. Results: The analysis expressed significant improvement in gross and fine hand dexterity and grip strength among the experimental group. The hand function did not reveal a statistically significant change. Conclusion: A 4?week TOT program is an effective measure to improve gross and fine dexterity, and muscle grip strength in the geriatric population. For improvement in hand function, a longer training may be required
ABSTRACT
CONTEXT: Hamstring muscle is actively involved in various activities of daily living like walking, stair climbing etc. The flexibility of Hamstring muscle is found to be commonly compromised among various age groups. This may be due to ineffective use of the muscle to full extensibility in routine activities. Padahastasana is a yogasana in standing position which induces maximum stretch to posterior structures of thigh including Hamstring muscle. AIMS:This study aims to investigate the effect of Padahastasana in improving flexibility of Hamstring muscle SETTINGS AND DESIGN:Experimental Design with random sampling method conducted among 20 subjects. METHODS AND MATERIAL: Subjects were recruited for the study based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Hamstring flexibility was assessed using sit and reach box - a standardized tool to measure Hamstring flexibility. The selected subjects were taught the technique of Padahastasana and practiced for twelve weeks – six times in a day and minimum five days per week. After twelve weeks of practice, hamstring flexibility was assessed using sit and reach box. STATISTICALANALYSIS:Analysis was conducted using't' test Results: The study showed significant improvement (t value – 13.01 at p≤0.05) in Hamstring muscle flexibility by performing 12 weeks Padahastasana practice. CONCLUSIONS: Padahastasana can be recommended to prevent and treat Hamstring muscle tightness