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Objective To observe the effect of the Western massage combined with muscle energy technique on masticatory muscle dis-orders. Methods 58 patients with masticatory muscle disorders were randomly divided into control group (n=29) and observation group (n=29). The control group accepted ultrashort wave therapy, while the observation group accepted the Western massage and muscle energy tech-nique. They were assessed with Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) of pain and Friction index of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) before and 4 weeks after treatment. Results The scores of VAS and Friction index of the TMJ decreased in both groups (P<0.001), and decreased more in the observation group than in the control group (P<0.001). Conclusion The combination of Western massage and muscle energy technique is advanced for masticatory muscle disorders.
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Objective To compare balance assessment with static balance measuring equipment and clinical balance measuring scales. Methods Seventy hemiplegic stroke patients ( the patient group) and 36 healthy volunteers (the controls) were recruited. Each subject's equilibrium was measured using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) ,the Fugl-Meyer Balance Scale (FM-B) and tetra-ataxiametry, all by the same therapist. Results The BBS and FM-B results both showed significant differences between the patient group and the control group. The data obtained through tetra-ataxiametric assessment showed that the average weight distribution index ( WDI ) and stability index (SI) were significantly lower in the patient group than among the controls. There was a strong correlation between the tetra-ataxiametric assessment results and the clinical balance test outcomes. The WDI and SI from tetra-ataxiametry were strongly correlated with Berg total static scores. Conclusions Tetra-ataxiametry and the BBS and FM-B tests can all effectively reflect the equilibrium of stroke patients. Tetra-ataxiametry can measure balance ability quantitatively, while the clinical balance tests ( BBS, FM-B) are easier to conduct.
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Objective To investigate the therapeutic effects of electromyography biofeedback (EMGBF) on motor and psychological function in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI).Methods Seventy SCI patients were randomly divided into research and control groups with 35 patients in each.In addition to conventional rehabilitation,the patients in the research group received EMGBF training while those in the control group were treated with medium frequency electrotherapy.To evaluate the patients' self confidence and motor function of their paralyzed limbs,Rosenberg's self-esteem scale (RSES) and American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) locomotor function scoring were performed before and six weeks after the interventions in both groups of patients.The changes of EMG of the quadriceps,hamstring and anterior tibial muscles of both groups in maximum contraction were also observed before and six weeks after the interventions.Results There were no significant differences in the RSES scores or ASIA locomotor function results between the groups before the interventions.ASIA locomotor function evaluation scores increased significantly in both groups after the interventions,with significantly better results in the research group.The RSES scores in the research group also improved significantly after the interventions,and RSES scoring and ASIA scoring were positively correlated in those patients.But no significant improvement in average RSES scores was found in the control group.The muscle contraction EMG amplitudes also increased significantly in patients of the research group after the interventions.Conclusions EMGBF training can enhance patients' self-confidence,which helps patients with SCI improve their motor functions.