Comparison of spatiotemporal and angular parameters during shallow water walking in different immersion depths by older adults with and without Parkinson's disease.

BACKGROUND: People with Parkinson's Disease (PwPD) have motor symptoms that directly interfere on dry land walking performance. Despite the shallow water walking is a viable and beneficial physical intervention for PwPD, it lacks information on the comparison of the biomechanical responses of the shallow water walking by PwPD and age paired healthy individuals. RESEARCH QUESTION: Are there differences in the spatiotemporal and angular responses of shallow water walking by older adults with and without Parkinson's disease? METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, ten older adults (9 men/1 women) with Parkinson disease (PwPD group) and ten older adults (3 men/7 women) without Parkinson's disease (Older group) walked in shallow water at self-selected comfortable speed on pool floor in the immersion depths of waist and xiphoid levels. The 2D kinematic data from the sagittal plane was collected to calculate the walking speed, stride length, stride frequency, duty factor, walk ratio, lower limb joints' range of motion and peak angular speed RESULTS: Both groups reduced similarly the walking speed with the immersion depth increase. The speed decrease was achieved by a reducing both the stride frequency and stride length only in the PwPD. The PwPD had lower contact phase than Older in the waist depth, probably due to the reduced risk of fall in water immersion and to attenuate drag force effects. The total range of joint motion was similar between groups, while the peak angular speed of ankle and knee reduced in the deeper depth in both groups. SIGNIFICANCE: The present findings can help professionals of aquatic rehabilitation to choose the best depth for exercise programs, according to the treatment objectives. To our knowledge, this was the first study that analyzed spatiotemporal and angular variables during shallow water walking of PwPD at different depths and compared them with older people without Parkinson's disease.

Alterações na cinemática angular da marcha de pacientes hemiparéticos após Acidente Vascular Encefálico / Changes in gait angular kinematics of hemiparetic patients After Cerebrovascular Accident

O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar as alterações na cinemática angular da marcha de adultos com hemiparesia após acidente vascular encefálico (AVE). A amostra foi composta por 17 pacientes pós-AVE; e, para a avaliação da marcha, foi utilizado um sistema de captura da trajetória tridimensional da marcha. Quanto aos membros sadio e afetado, as variáveis estudadas foram: velocidade, ângulos máximos de flexão e extensão do quadril e joelho. Para as comparações entre os membros, foi utilizado o teste t pareado; e, para as comparações com valores normais, o teste t para uma amostra, considerando, como critério de decisão, o nível de significância p ≤ 0,05. Os resultados demonstraram, na comparação entre os membros, diferenças significantes na flexão (0,001) e extensão de joelho (0,05). Já na comparação entre o membro afetado e o sadio, destaca-se a diferença significante das angulações de flexão de joelho (<0,000) e extensão de quadril (0,004). Os pacientes com hemiparesia pós-AVE apresentam alterações na cinemática angular da marcha quando comparado o membro afetado com o sadio e com os valores da normalidade. Observou se um padrão de marcha predominantemente flexor, com grande variabilidade entre os pacientes avaliados.

This study aimed to analyze changes in gait angular kinematics of adults with hemiparesis after cerebrovascular accident (CVA). The sample consisted of 17 post- cerebrovascular accident (CVA) patients; and, for gait evaluation, it used a three-dimensional gait trajectory capture system. As for healthy and affected limbs, the variables studied were: speed, maximum angles of flexion, and extension of the hip and knee. For the comparisons between the members, the study used the t-paired test; and, for comparisons with normal values, it used the t test for a sample, whereas, as a decision criterion, the significance level p ≤ 0.05. The results showed, in the comparison between the limbs, significant differences in flexion (0.001) and knee extension (0.05). In the comparison between the affected limb and the healthy one, there is a significant difference in knee flexion angles (<0.000) and hip extension (0.004). Patients with post-CVA hemiparesis present changes in gait angular kinematics when the affected limb is compared with the healthy limb and with normal values. The study observed a predominantly flexor gait pattern, with a considerable variability among the evaluated patients.

The impact of virtual reality on manual dexterity of Parkinson's disease subjects: a systematic review.

PURPOSE: To present the latest available evidence on the effects of a VR-based therapy on the manual dexterity of PD subjects. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, and PEDro databases. Were included in the systematic review Randomized Clinical Trials, Pilot and Feasibility studies published up to December 2020. The studies should include at least one of the following assessments: Box and Blocks Test, 9-Hole Peg Test; Purdue Pegboard Test. PEDro Scale was used to assess the methodological quality of the included studies. RESULTS: Eight studies were included in the review. Most studies have shown an improvement in outcomes for manual dexterity, but most of them presented a high risk of bias with low methodological quality. A high heterogeneity was observed in the protocols used for each study. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that VR-based therapy has great potential and feasibility to be used as a manual dexterity rehabilitation protocol in PD subjects. However, these results must be interpreted carefully and studies with greater methodological rigor must be conducted.Implications For RehabilitationRehabilitation programs using virtual reality seem to have greater adherence to the user.Immersive virtual reality systems seem to do better in manual dexterity than non-immersive systems.It is plausible to use virtual reality systems in telerehabilitation for manual dexterity training in subjects with Parkinson's' Disease.The use of Virtual Reality by the therapist in a rehabilitation program allows him to modulate the exercises, enabling a wide variety of therapeutic options.

Measuring muscle activation using electromyography during neurodevelopmental treatment in individuals with severe cerebral palsy.

BACKGROUND: In the motor rehabilitation of individuals with neurological disorders, including cerebral palsy (CP), Neurodevelopmental treatment (NDT) one of the most used approaches worldwide. OBJECTIVE: To verify muscle activation in NDT handling in individuals with severe CP using electromyography. METHODS: This was a controlled, cross-sectional, quantitative clinical trial. The individuals were evaluated using electromyography to analyze the muscular activation of the spinal erector, gluteus medius, rectus abdominis and multifidus during different NDT handling. We evaluated 59 individuals: 39 with spastic quadriparesis CP (Gross Motor Function Classification System, level IV-V) and 20 typically-developing individuals (control group). These groups were homogeneous with respect to age and gender. RESULTS: There was a significant difference in muscle activation of the spinal erector, gluteus medius, rectus abdominis and multifidus in the six NDT handling used in this study: side-sitting for kneeling; supine for lateral decubitus, prone position for lateral decubitus, "sitting on horseback", sitting on the roll, and proprioceptive stimulation sitting on the ball. CONCLUSION: The results show that all NDT handling analyzed in this study were effective for muscle activation of the spinal erector, gluteus medius, rectus abdominis and multifidus in individuals with severe spastic quadriparetic CP.

A influência dos níveis de atividade física nos parâmetros da marcha durante atividades de dupla tarefa em idosos / The influence of physical activity on gait parameters during dual-task activities in the older people

Resumo Objetivo Analisar as possíveis diferenças nas variáveis ​​cinemáticas da marcha entre idosos fisicamente ativos e fisicamente inativos durante a realização de atividades de dupla tarefa. Metodo: Participaram idosos, com idade entre 60 e 75 anos, divididos em dois grupos: fisicamente inativo (FI) (n=20) e fisicamente ativo (FA) (n=20). Os participantes foram agrupados igualmente em dez indivíduos do sexo feminino e masculino, classificados por meio do Questionário Internacional de Atividade Física (International Physical Activity Questionnaire - IPAQ). Os participantes realizaram inicialmente tarefas simples (aritmética, fluência verbal e marcha) e depois realizaram atividades de dupla tarefa, associando a marcha com as duas atividades cognitivas (aritmética e fluência verbal). Foram analisadas as variáveis ​​velocidade, cadência, comprimento da passada, largura do passo, tempo da passada e duplo apoio. Para comparar as variáveis ​​por tarefa e grupo, foi utilizado o modelo de Equações de Estimativas Generalizadas (GEE) complementado pelo teste de Bonferroni. Resultados Na análise intragrupo, ambos os grupos apresentaram reduções significativas na velocidade, cadência, largura da passada, tempo da passada e duplo apoio, tanto na dupla tarefa aritmética quanto na dupla tarefa de fluência verbal. No entanto, nas comparações entre os grupos, não houve diferenças estatisticamente significativas em nenhum parâmetro cinemático analisado, tanto na análise da marcha simples quanto nas tarefas duplas. Conclusão As duplas tarefas influenciaram negativamente os parâmetros cinemáticos da marcha em ambos os grupos. No entanto, o nível de atividade física não pode ser considerado um fator que minimiza os efeitos da dupla tarefa na marcha de idosos.

Abstract Objective To analyze the possible differences in the kinematic variables of gait between physically active and physically inactive older people while performing dual-task activities. Method Older individuals, aged between 60 and 75 years, participated, divided into two groups: physically inactive (PI) (n=20) and physically active (PA) (n=20). Participants were equally grouped into ten female and male individuals, classified using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Participants initially performed simple tasks (arithmetic, verbal fluency, and gait) and then performed dual task activities, associating gait with the two cognitive activities (arithmetic and verbal fluency). The variables velocity, cadence, stride length, step width, stride time and double support were analyzed. To compare variables according to task and group, the Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) model complemented by the Bonferroni test was used. Results In the intragroup analysis both groups showed significant decreases in velocity, cadence, step width, stride time and double support, both in the arithmetic dual task and in the verbal fluency dual task. However, in the comparisons between the groups, there were no statistically significant differences in any kinematic parameter analyzed, both in the single gait analysis and in the dual tasks. Conclusion The dual tasks had a negative influence on the kinematic gait parameters in both groups. However, the level of physical activity can not be considered a factor that minimizes the effects of the dual task on gait in the older people.

Comparison of muscular activity on ergometric bicycle and elliptical trainer in subjects with incomplete spinal cord injury / Comparação da atividade muscular em bicicleta ergométrica e aparelho elíptico em indivíduos com lesão medular incompleta

Abstract Introduction Spinal cord injury generates muscle weakness, impairing orthostatism and gait. The elliptical trainer (ET) and the ergometric bicycle (EB) are rehabilitation options for this subject. Understanding the pattern of muscle activation generated by these methods is important to answer questions arising from clinical practice. Objective To verify muscle activation with ET and EB with and without electromyographic biofeedback in subjects with incomplete spinal cord injury (ISCI). Methods Cross-sectional crossover study, enrolled in Clinical Trials (NCT05118971). Subjects with spinal cord injury (incomplete spinal cord injury group - ISCIG) and without spinal cord injury (reference group - RG) were randomized into four groups: elliptical group (EG), elliptical + biofeedback group (EBG), bicycle group (BG) and bicycle + biofeedback group (BBG). Subjects were assessed for functionality by the Functional Independence Measure, injury classification by the ASIA Scale, muscle tone by the modified Ashworth scale, and muscle activity by electromyography. Results There was greater activation of the tibialis anterior on cycling compared to other modalities in ISCIG. Biofeedback offered no difference in any of the groups. In RG the vastus medialis was the most activated muscle in all modalities, with more expressive activation in the ET. In this same group, the tibialis anterior was more activated on the EB. Conclusion This study showed that both ET and EB are safe and effective in recruiting the muscles investigated, encouraging its use by rehabilitation professionals when the objective is to strength muscles involved in gait.

Resumo Introducão A lesão medular gera fraqueza muscular, preju-dicando o ortostatismo e a marcha. O aparelho elíptico (EL) e a bicicleta ergométrica (BE) são opções de reabilitação para estes sujeitos. Compreender o padrão de ativação muscular gerado por esses métodos é importante para esclarecer dúvi-das advindas da prática clínica. Objetivo Verificar a ativação muscular com EL e BE com e sem biofeedback eletromiográfico em indivíduos com lesão medular incompleta (LMI). Métodos Estudo transversal do tipo crossover, inscrito no Clinical Trials (NCT05118971). Sujeitos com lesão medular (grupo lesão medular incompleta - GLMI) e sem lesão medular (grupo refe-rência - GR) foram randomizados em quatro grupos: elíptico (GE), elíptico + biofeedback (GEB), bicicleta (GB) e bicicleta + biofeedback (GBB). Os indivíduos foram avaliados quanto à funcionalidade pela Medida de Independência Funcional, classificação da lesão pela Escala ASIA, tônus muscular pela escala modificada de Ashworth e atividade muscular por eletromiografia. Resultados Houve maior ativação do tibial anterior no ciclismo em comparação com outras modalidades no GLMI. O biofeedback não ofereceu nenhuma diferença em nenhum dos grupos. No GR, o vasto medial foi o músculo mais ativado em todas as modalidades, com ativação mais expressiva no EL. Neste mesmo grupo, o tibial anterior foi mais ativado na BE. Conclusão Este estudo mostrou que tanto o EL quanto a BE são seguros e eficazes no recrutamento dos músculos investigados, incentivando seu uso por profissionais da reabilitação quando o objetivo é fortalecer os músculos envolvidos na marcha.

Realidade virtual como ferramenta de intervenção para os membros superiores na doença de Parkinson: série de casos / Realidad virtual como herramienta de intervención para los miembros superiores en la enfermedad de Parkinson: una serie de casos / Virtual reality as an intervention tool for upper limbs in Parkinson's disease: a case series

RESUMO A doença de Parkinson (DP) é uma desordem neurodegenerativa na qual ocorre a perda dopaminérgica na região dos núcleos da base. Uma das principais queixas associadas à DP são os déficits motores dos membros superiores (MMSS) frequentemente relatados em dificuldades para realizar as atividades de vida diária (AVDs), podendo interferir negativamente na qualidade de vida. Nos últimos anos novas tecnologias surgiram para auxiliar no processo de reabilitação dos MMSS na DP, sendo a realidade virtual uma delas. Portanto, este estudo teve como objetivo verificar os efeitos de uma intervenção nos MMSS com equipamento de realidade virtual semi-imersiva nas AVDs e na qualidade de vida de indivíduos com DP. Foram selecionados seis indivíduos com DP para intervenção, avaliados por meio do miniexame do estado mental, da escala de Hoehn e Yahr, da escala unificada de avaliação para a DP (UPDRS), do questionário sobre a doença de Parkinson (PDQ-39) e do test d'évaluation des membres supérieurs de personnes âgées (Tempa). Seis sujeitos foram submetidos à intervenção com duração de 27 minutos por sessão, duas vezes na semana, por cinco semanas, utilizando o Leap Motion Controller. Obteve-se melhora na força muscular, na resistência muscular, nas AVDs e na qualidade de vida, todos com significância estatística. Dessa forma, verificou-se que o protocolo baseado em realidade virtual aplicada nos MMSS foi eficaz para melhorar as AVDs e a qualidade de vida dos indivíduos com DP deste estudo.

RESUMEN La enfermedad de Parkinson (EP) es un trastorno neurodegenerativo con pérdidas dopaminenérgicas en la región de núcleos basales. Una de las principales quejas asociadas a la EP son los déficits motores de los miembros superiores (MMSS), que muchas veces resultan en dificultades de realizar las actividades de la vida diaria (AVD), lo que impacta negativamente la calidad de vida. En los últimos años surgieron nuevas tecnologías para ayudar en el proceso de rehabilitación de los MMSS en la EP, y una de ellas es la realidad virtual. Por lo tanto, este estudio tuvo como objetivo comprobar los efectos de una intervención en los MMSS utilizando un equipo de realidad virtual semiinmersivo en las AVD y en la calidad de vida de individuos con EP. Se seleccionaron a seis individuos con EP para la intervención, que fueron sometidos a evaluación por el Miniexamen del Estado Mental, la Escala de Hoehn y Yahr, la Escala Unificada de Evaluación de la Enfermedad de Parkinson (UPDRS), el Cuestionario de la Enfermedad de Parkinson (PDQ-39) y el test d'évaluation des membres supérieurs de personnes âgées (Tempa). Seis sujetos se sometieron a una intervención de 27 minutos por sesión, dos veces por semana, durante cinco semanas, utilizando el Leap Motion Controller. Hubo una mejora en la fuerza muscular, en la resistencia muscular, en las AVD y en la calidad de vida, todos con significación estadística. Así se constató que el protocolo basado en realidad virtual aplicado a los MMSS fue eficaz en la mejora de las AVD y en la calidad de vida de los individuos con EP de este estudio.

ABSTRACT Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder in which dopaminergic loss occurs in the basal nuclei region. One major complaint associated with PD is upper extremity motor deficits (UE), frequently reported in difficulties to perform activities of daily living (ADL), which may negatively affect quality of life. In recent years new technologies have emerged to assist the UE rehabilitation process in PD, such as virtual reality. Therefore, this study sought to verify the effects of an intervention in the UE with semi-immersive virtual reality equipment on ADLs and quality of life of individuals with PD. Six individuals with PD were selected for intervention, and evaluated by the Mini Mental State Examination, the Hoehn & Yahr Scale, the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), the Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire (PDQ-39) and the test d'évaluation des membres supérieurs de personnes âgées (TEMPA). The interventions lasted 27 minutes per session, twice per week, for 5 weeks, using the Leap Motion Controller. Individuals showed improvement in muscle strength, muscle endurance, ADLs, and quality of life, all statistically significant. In conclusion, the protocol based on virtual reality applied to the upper limbs effectively improved the activities of daily living and quality of life in individuals with PD.

Alterações na cinemática da marcha hemiparética: um estudo comparativo / Changes in the kinematics of hemiparetic gait: a comparative study

O objetivo principal deste estudo foi analisar as alterações da marcha de adultos com hemiparesia após acidente vascular encefálico (AVE) e comparar com sujeitos saudáveis. A amostra foi composta por 14 participantes do grupo AVE e 14 participantes pareados do grupo-controle (CON). Foi realizada uma análise tridimensional da marcha mediante um sistema de cinemetria. Os parâmetros analisados foram a velocidade, o comprimento da passada, a largura da passada, a cadência e o tempo da passada, sendo utilizado o teste t independente para as comparações entre os grupos e considerando p < 0,05 como critério de decisão. Os participantes do grupo AVE apresentaram valores médios significantemente inferiores em todos os parâmetros analisados. Além disso, os pacientes do grupo AVE também tiveram valores muito inferiores quando comparados aos de outros estudos com pacientes pós-AVE, possivelmente devido ao curto período entre o AVE (média de 14,14 meses) e a avaliação da marcha.

The main objective of this study was to analyze the gait alterations of adults with hemiparesis after cerebrovascular accident (CVA) and compare it with healthy subjects. The sample consisted of 14 participants from the stroke group and 14 matched participants from the control group (CON). A three-dimensional gait analysis was performed using a kinemetry system. The parameters analyzed were velocity, stride length, stride width, cadence, and stride time, using the independent t test for comparisons between groups and considering p < 0.05 as a decision criterion. Participants in the stroke group had significantly lower mean values in all analyzed parameters. In addition, patients in the CVA group also had much lower values when compared to other studies with post-CVA patients, possibly due to the short period between the CVA (mean of 14.14 months) and the gait assessment.

Home-based exercises with minimal oversight in Parkinson's Disease motor function: a systematic review and meta-analysis / Exercícios domiciliares com mínima assistência na função motora da Doença de Parkinson: uma revisão sistemática com meta-análise

Aims: this study aimed to present the latest available evidence on the effects of home-based exercises with minimal oversight (HBEMO) on motor function and quality of life of Parkinson's Disease (PD) subjects. Methods: in this systematic review MEDLINE (PubMed), LILACS, PEDro, EMBASE, Cochrane and Google Scholar were searched for randomized clinical trials investigating the effects of HBEMO on PD subjects. Results: four studies were included in the meta-analysis. HBEMO was almost as beneficial as conventional therapies in lowering motor impairment through Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale-III (UPDRS-III) analysis (Mean difference = -1.70 [95%CI = -4.39 to 0.99]; I2 = 88%; p < 0,01) and improving quality of life through The Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire (PDQ-39) (Mean difference = 0.39 [95%CI = -3.41 to 4.19]; I2 = 93%; p < 0,01). Conclusions: minimally assisted home-based exercises are almost as effective as the usual care to improve motor function and quality of life of Parkinson's Disease subjects.

Objetivos: este estudo teve como objetivo apresentar as últimas evidências disponíveis sobre os efeitos de exercícios domiciliares com mínima supervisão na função motora e na qualidade de vida de indivíduos com doença de Parkinson. Métodos: nesta revisão sistemática foram pesquisados ensaios clínicos randomizados investigando os efeitos de exercícios domiciliares em indivíduos com doença de Parkinson nas bases de dados MEDLINE (PubMed), LILACS, PEDro, EMBASE, Cochrane e Google Scholar. Resultados: quatro estudos foram incluídos na meta-análise. O exercício domiciliar com supervisão mínima foi quase tão benéfico quanto as terapias convencionais na redução do comprometimento motor por meio da análise da Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale-III (UPDRS-III) (diferença média = -1.70 [95%IC = -4.39 a 0.99]; I2 = 88%; p < 0,01) e melhoria da qualidade de vida por meio do Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire (PDQ-39) (diferença média = 0.39 [95%IC = -3.41 a 4.19]; I2 = 93%; p < 0,01). Conclusões: a fisioterapia domiciliar com supervisão mínima é quase tão eficaz quanto as terapias convencionais para melhorar a função motora e a qualidade de vida da doença de Parkinson.

Analysis of muscle activation in children and adolescents with severe cerebral palsy / Análise da ativação muscular em crianças e adolescentes com paralisia cerebral grave

Abstract Introduction: Children and adolescents with spastic quadriparesis have a worse selective motor control, and studies with this population are still very scarce. The same is true with scientific evidence of one of the methods most used as a physiotherapeutic treatment in this population, the Bobath Concept. Objective: To evaluate spine erector muscles activation, gluteus medius and gluteus maximus, through the handling of the Bobath Concept and the sustained kneeling posture in subjects with a diagnosis of severe cerebral palsy; and to compare muscle activation with a reference group, in order to increase the reliability of this study. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out with 38 children and adolescents with cerebral palsy, classified by GMFCS at levels IV and V, and 20 healthy participants, aged between 3 and 18 years. They were submitted to the handling of the Bobath Concept and to the sustained kneeling posture, with muscle activation obtained by electromyography. Results: We observed significant muscle activation during handling in side-sitting, with weight transfer and without the help of another therapist, and in the sustained kneeling posture, for the erector of the spine and gluteus medius. Conclusion: The evidence from this study suggests that both the handling in side-sitting and the sustained kneeling posture cause significant muscle activation in the erector of the spine and gluteus medius for severe quadriparesis subjects, GMFCS IV and V, which can contribute to the improvement of postural control and decision-making in physical therapy practice.

Resumo Introdução: Crianças e adolescentes com quadriparesia espástica apresentam pior controle motor seletivo e estudos com essa população ainda são muito escassos. O mesmo ocorre com as evidências científicas de um dos métodos mais utilizados como tratamento fisioterapêutico nessa população, o Conceito Bobath. Objetivo: Avaliar a ativação dos músculos eretores da coluna, glúteo médio e glúteo máximo por meio do manuseio do Conceito Bobath e da postura ajoelhada sustentada, em indivíduos com diagnóstico de paralisia cerebral grave; e comparar a ativação muscular com um grupo de referência, a fim de aumentar a confiabilidade deste estudo. Métodos: Realizou-se um estudo transversal com 38 crianças e adolescentes com paralisia cerebral, classificados pelo GMFCS nos níveis IV e V, e 20 participantes saudáveis com idade entre 3 e 18 anos. Eles foram submetidos ao manuseio do Conceito Bobath e à postura ajoelhada sustentada, com ativação muscular obtida por eletromiografia. Resultados: Observou-se ativação muscular significativa durante o manuseio na posição sentada de lado, com transferência de peso e sem auxílio de outro terapeuta, e na postura ajoelhada sustentada para o eretor da coluna e glúteo médio. Conclusão: As evidências deste estudo sugerem que tanto o manuseio na posição sentada de lado quanto a sustentação da postura ajoelhada causam significativa ativação muscular no eretor da coluna e glúteo médio para indivíduos com quadriparesia grave, GMFCS IV e V, o que pode contribuir para a melhora do controle postural e tomada de decisão na prática fisioterapêutica.

A artrodese lombar e as alterações dos parâmetros espaço-temporais da marcha / Lumbar arthrodesis and the changes in spatiotemporal parameters of gait

As dores lombares podem causar frequentes incapacidades a longo prazo. O tratamento inicial de problemas lombares é realizado através de medicamentos e de fisioterapia; mas a cirurgia de artrodese também pode ser considerada para alguns casos específicos. Entretanto, acredita-se que a artrodese lombar pode afetar negativamente a marcha. O principal objetivo deste estudo foi identificar possíveis alterações nos parâmetros cinemáticos da marcha de indivíduos submetidos a artrodese lombar. Fizeram parte da amostra quinze indivíduos com médias de idade de 55,40 anos, de peso de 79,84 quilogramas, de altura de 1,60 metros e de tempo de pós operat ório de 59,33 meses. Um sistema de cinemetria capturou a trajetória tridimensional da marcha. Para a avaliação funcional, o questionário de Roland Morris (RMDQ) foi utilizado. O teste t para uma amostra foi utilizado para comparar com as variáveis da marcha com a normalidade; e o teste de correlação de Spearman, para verificar as correlações entre os parâmetros da marcha e o RMDQ, tempo de procedimento cirúrgico e idade. Os valores de velocidade (p < 0,0001), do comprimento da passada (p < 0,0001) e da largura do passo (p < 0,0001) apresentaram-se inferiores quando comparado aos valores normativos. Os resultados do questionário de RMDQ demonstraram que os participantes apresentaram níveis baixos de funcionalidade; com uma correlação forte e estatisticamente significativa (p < 0,05) entre a funcionalidade e a velocidade, cadência, tempo da passada e largura do passo. Resultados similares também foram encontrados em pacientes em tratamento conservador, demonstrando a falta de eficiência desse procedimento cirúrgico. Por isso, de ve-se questionar as reais necessidades da artrodese lombar, avaliando a gravidade e os objetivos de cada paciente com o intuito esgotar ao máximo as po ssibilidades de tratamento conservador antes da opção pela artrodese lombar. (AU)

Low back pain can cause frequent long-term disabilities. The initial treatment for low back problems is medication and physiotherapy; but arthrodesis surgery can also be considered for some specific cases. However, it is believed that lumbar arthrodesis can negatively affects gait. The main objective of this study was to identify possible changes in gait kinematic parameters after lumbar arthrodesis. Sample was composed by fifteen individuals with a mean age of 55.40 years, weighing 79.84 kilograms, height of 1.60 meters and postoperative time of 59.33 months. A kinematic system captured the three -dimensional trajectory of the gait. For functionality evaluation, the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) was used. The t-test for one sample was used to compare gait variables with normality; and the Spearman correlation test was used to verify the correlations between gait par ameters and RMDQ, surgical time and age. The values of velocity (p < 0.0001), stride length (p < 0.0001) and step width (p < 0.0001) were lower when compared to normative values. The results of the RMDQ showed that participants had low levels of functionality; with a strong and statistically significant correlation (p < 0.05) between functionality and velocity, between functionality and cadence, between functionality and stride time, and between functionality and stride widt h. Similar results were also found in patients under conservative treatment, demonstrating this surgical procedure is inefficiency. Therefore, should be asked the real needed for lumbar arthrodesis, measuring the severity and objectives of each patient in order to fully exhaust the possibilities of conservative treatment b efore opting for lumbar arthrodesis. (AU)

Upper limbs cycle ergometer increases muscle strength, trunk control and independence of acute stroke subjects: A randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Studies demonstrate the benefits of upper limbs cycle ergometer (ULCE) in subacute and chronic stroke subjects, but the literature still needs to explore the acute phase of the disease. OBJECTIVE: Verify the effects of ULCE on muscular strength, trunk control and independence of post-stroke subjects in hospital acute phase. METHODS: In this randomized clinical trial participants were allocated into two groups. The control group (CG) performed two daily sessions of conventional physiotherapy, while the intervention group (IG) had one daily session of conventional physiotherapy and one of ULCE. The interventions were carried out for 20 minutes for five days. Both groups were assessed before and after the treatment for upper limbs strength by manual dynamometer, trunk control by Trunk Impairment Scale and level of independence by the Modified Rankin Scale. RESULTS: Twenty subjects with mean ages of 63.5±4.5 were enrolled. There was a significant intra-group difference of palmar grip, shoulder abductors, elbow flexor and wrist extensor strength, trunk control and functional independence only in IG. Inter-group difference for all variables showed superiority in IG. CONCLUSIONS: ULCE is an effective device for increasing muscle strength, trunk control and consequently improving the independence of post-stroke subjects in the acute hospital phase.

Análise da ativação muscular em indivíduos com paralisia cerebral através de manuseios do conceito bobath: uma revisão crítica / Analysis of muscle activation in individuals with Cerebral Palsy through handling the Bobath Concept: a critical review

O objetivo desse artigo foi analisar criticamente a literatura a respeito da ativação muscular pelo uso do Conceito Bobath em indivíduos com Paralisia Cerebral. As bases de dados consultadas foram Pubmed, Science Direct, Scielo, Lilacs, PEDro e ResearchGate, não limitando o período de publicação, sendo incluídos artigos publicados até maio de 2020. Foram encontrados na literatura 827 estudos, destes apenas cinco foram incluídos nessa revisão. Os artigos inclusos, a partir de critérios pré-estabelecidos, avaliaram através da eletromiografia diferentes musculaturas pelo uso de manuseios do Conceito Bobath. As musculaturas avaliadas estão relacionadas ao controle de cervical e de tronco, além dos músculos oblíquo interno, transverso do abdome e reto abdominal. A ativação muscular foi avaliada nas posturas de decúbito lateral, decúbito ventral e sedestação. Os artigos revisados identificaram através da eletromiografia que ocorre ativação muscular durante alguns manuseios do Conceito Bobath em indivíduos com paralisia cerebral, contudo as pesquisas são escassas, já que os estudos apresentam limitações nos desenhos experimentais e amostras pequenas. Isso reforça a importância de ampliar a investigação acerca da ativação muscular durante os manuseios com esta abordagem, o que poderá contribuir efetivamente na tomada de decisão dos profissionais que atuam nesta área, visando maior eficácia no tratamento e qualidade de vida desta população.AU)

The aim of this article was to critically analyze the literature on muscle activation by the use of the Bobath Concept in individuals with Cerebral Palsy. The databases consulted were Pubmed, Science Direct, Scielo, Lilacs, PEDro and ResearchGate, not limiting the publication period, including articles published until May 2020. A total of 827 studies were found in the literature, and of these only five were included in this review. The included articles, based on pre-established criteria, evaluated through electromyography different muscles using the Bobath Concept handling. The muscles evaluated are related to cervical and trunk control, in addition to the internal oblique, transverse muscles of the abdomen and rectum. Muscle activation was evaluated in lateral decubitus postures, ventral decubitus and sedestation. The reviewed articles identified, through electromyography, that muscle activation occurs during some handling of the Bobath Concept in individuals with cerebral palsy, however research is scarce, since studies have limitations in experimental designs and small samples. This reinforces the importance of expanding the investigation about muscle activation during handling with this approach, which can effectively contribute to the decision making of professionals working in this area, aiming at greater efficiency in the treatment and quality of life of this population.(AU)

Effects of aerobic cycling training on mobility and functionality of acute stroke subjects: A randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Studies demonstrate the benefits of aerobic cycling training in subacute and chronic stroke subjects, but there is a lack in the literature about its effects on the acute phase. OBJECTIVE: Verify the effects of aerobic cycling training on lower limbs muscle strength, gait speed, balance, mobility and functionality of acute stroke subjects. METHODS: Control group (CG) performed conventional physiotherapy twice a day and the intervention group (IG) performed a conventional physiotherapy and a cycle ergometer session, for five consecutive days. Subjects were assessed for muscle strength by a digital dynamometer, gait speed by the 10-meter-walk-test, balance by the Berg Balance Scale, mobility by the ICU-Mobility-Scale and functionality by the Perme Score. RESULTS: Twenty subjects were enrolled in the study, 10 in the CG and 10 in the IG. Lower limbs muscle strength, the main endpoint, was better in the IG compared to the CG. The same was found in the secondary endpoints. The intragroup analysis was also positive for the CG in the mobility and functionality. CONCLUSIONS: Conventional physiotherapy combined with cycling exercise showed better results in the improvement of muscle strength of lower limbs, mobility and functionality of subjects who suffered from acute stroke.

Effects of aerobic exercise using cycle ergometry on balance and functional capacity in post-stroke patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials.

BACKGROUND: Previous studies have shown that aerobic exercise with cycle ergometer improves motor control. PURPOSE: The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis are to evaluate evidence about the effects of aerobic exercise with cycle ergometer on the balance of post-stroke patients, evaluated by the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and functional capacity, evaluated by the maximal oxygen intake and six-minute walk test (6MWT). METHODS: The research was conducted on MEDLINE, LILACS, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Physiotherapy Evidence Database, and Google Scholar until March 2018 (CRD42015020146). Two independent reviewers performed the article selection, data extraction, and methodological quality assessment. The main outcome was balance assessed by the Berg scale and the secondary outcome was functional capacity of the maximal oxygen intake and the 6MWT. Meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects method, and mean pre-post intervention difference with a 95% confidence interval (95%CI). RESULTS: The review included 5 papers and a total of 258 patients. It was observed that the cycle ergometer did not improve balance in this population (0.03 [-0.57 to 0.64] p = 0.91) or functional capacity in maximal oxygen intake (2.40 [-0.24 to 5.04] p = 0.07) and 6MWT (-40.49 [-131.70 to 50.72] p = 0.38). CONCLUSIONS: The cycle ergometer aerobic exercise did not seem to improve balance or functional capacity in post-stroke patients.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONAerobic exercise with cycle ergometer does not improve balance in patients after chronic stroke, but the results for functional capacity are more promising.Beneficial changes in functional capacity can be seen after 12-4 weeks of training, and are dependent on the initial level of physical fitness of each individual.The use of the cycle-ergometer to improve balance and functional capacity was not superior when compared to conventional physiotherapy; therefore, a combination of therapeutic modalities would be ideal for rehabilitation and post-stroke patients.

Is the dopaminergic loss associated with gait and postural impairments in subjects with Parkinson's disease at different motor stages?

Gait and postural control deficiencies in Parkinson's disease (PD) involve several specific motor aspects. The aim of this study was to identify and compare the main changes in gait kinematics and postural control with dopaminergic loss in the striatum region. This is a cross-sectional study that included 42 individuals with PD at different motor stages, according to the Hoehn & Yahr scale (H&Y). Motor subsection of the Movement Disorder Society-Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale-part III (MDS-UPDRS III) was used to evaluate general motor aspects. Gait kinematics was assessed using a three-dimensional motion capture system. Postural control was assessed by stabilometry using force platforms. Dopamine depletion was verified through 99mTc-TRODAT-1 (SPECT-CT) examination. We included 12, 15 and 15 individuals classified as H&Y I, II and III, respectively. We identified worse values of dopamine transporter uptake, MDS-UPDRS III, gait parameters (velocity, step length and stride length) and center of pressure displacement as the disease progressed. Our results indicate that higher dopaminergic loss and gait and postural control deficits occur between the H&Y levels II and III.

Cicloergômetro na melhora da função motora grossa de crianças com paralisia cerebral: uma revisão sistemática com meta-anális / Cicloergómetro en la mejora de la función motora gruesa de niños con parálisis cerebral: una revisión sistemática con metaanálisis / Cycle ergometer in the improvement of gross motor function of children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review with meta-analysis

RESUMO A paralisia cerebral é um grupo de desordens neurológicas causadora de inúmeros déficits, principalmente relacionados à função motora, comprometendo os movimentos e o seu controle seletivo. Dentre as diversas terapias disponíveis para tentar amenizar esse processo, o cicloergômetro aparece como um aparato estacionário que tem por finalidade facilitar a movimentação dos membros inferiores. Portanto, o objetivo deste estudo foi analisar os efeitos do cicloergômetro na função motora grossa de crianças com paralisia cerebral através da escala Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-66). Trata-se de uma revisão sistemática, com inclusão de ensaios clínicos randomizados publicados até julho de 2017. A busca foi realizada nas bases de dados: MEDLINE (PubMed), Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), SciELO e Embase. Para a avaliação da qualidade metodológica das investigações foi utilizada a escala da Cochrane Handbook. Foram selecionados artigos que aplicaram o cicloergômetro em crianças com paralisia cerebral, comparadas a crianças com paralisia cerebral no grupo-controle ou em outra intervenção, e que avaliaram a função motora grossa com a GMFM. A revisão incluiu três artigos e um total de 127 pacientes. Os resultados mostraram um aumento nos valores da GMFM-66, porém não significativo estatisticamente nem relevantes para uma melhora clínica. Por meio desta revisão sistemática, verificou-se uma grande heterogeneidade nos estudos que abordam esta área e que, apesar do incremento de valores no grupo que realizou o cicloergômetro, não houve diferença estatística quando comparado ao grupo-controle, demonstrando não beneficiar a função motora grossa dessa população quando avaliada pela GMFM66.

RESUMEN La parálisis cerebral es un grupo de desórdenes neurológicos causantes de innumerables déficits, principalmente relacionados con la función motora, y que compromete los movimientos y su control selectivo. Entre las diversas terapias disponibles para intentar amenizar ese proceso, el cicloergómetro aparece como un aparato estacionario que tiene por finalidad facilitar el movimiento de los miembros inferiores. Por lo tanto, este estudio buscó analizar los efectos del cicloergómetro en la función motora gruesa de niños con parálisis cerebral por medio de la escala Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-66). Se trata de una revisión sistemática, con la inclusión de ensayos clínicos aleatorizados publicados hasta julio de 2017. La búsqueda se realizó en las bases de datos: MEDLINE (PubMed), Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), SciELO y Embase. En la evaluación de la calidad metodológica de las investigaciones se utilizó la escala de Cochrane Handbook. Se seleccionaron los artículos que aplicaron el cicloergómetro en niños con parálisis cerebral, comparados a niños con parálisis cerebral en el grupo control o el grupo intervención, y que evaluaron la función motora gruesa con la GMFM. La revisión incluyó tres artículos y un total de 127 pacientes. Los resultados mostraron un aumento en los valores de la GMFM-66, pero no fueron significativos estadísticamente ni relevantes para una mejora clínica. Por medio de esta revisión sistemática, se verificó una gran heterogeneidad en los estudios sobre esta área y que, a pesar del incremento de valores en el grupo que realizó el cicloergómetro, no hubo diferencia estadística cuando comparado al grupo control, demostrando que no benefició la función motora gruesa de esa población cuando evaluada por la GMFM-66.

ABSTRACT Cerebral palsy is a group of neurological disorders that causes innumerable deficits, mainly related to motor function, compromising movements and their selective control. Among the various therapies available to try to soften this process, the cycle ergometer appears as a stationary apparatus that aims to facilitate the movement of the lower limbs. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the effects of the cycle ergometer on the gross motor function of children with cerebral palsy by the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-66) scale. This was a systematic review, with inclusion of randomized clinical trials published until July 2017. The search was performed in MEDLINE (PubMed), Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), SciELO, and Embase. The Cochrane Handbook Scale was used to evaluate the methodological quality of the investigations. We selected articles that applied the cycle ergometer in children with cerebral palsy, compared to children with cerebral palsy in the control group or other intervention, and that assessed gross motor function with GMFM. The review included three articles and a total of 127 patients. The results have shown a not statistically significant increase in GMFM-66 values, not relevant for clinical improvement. This systematic review has found great heterogeneity in the studies addressing this area and, despite the increase in values in the group that used the cycle ergometer, there was no statistical difference compared to the control group, showing that it does not benefit the gross motor function of this population, when evaluated by GMFM-66.

Impairments in gait kinematics and postural control may not correlate with dopamine transporter depletion in individuals with mild to moderate Parkinson's disease.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder caused by the loss of dopamine, an important neurotransmitter involved in regulating movement. Nuclear medicine imaging methods such as single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) combined with radiotracers can obtain the density of this neurotransmitter. This reduced density leads to classic PD symptoms, such as bradykinesia, tremor and stiffness, consequently affecting walking and postural control. The aim of this study was to verify the correlation between disorders of gait kinematics and postural instability with dopamine depletion in individuals with mild to moderate PD. This is a descriptive, observational cross-sectional study. Subjects were assessed for spatiotemporal gait parameters by a three-dimensional motion capture system, for postural control by stabilometry on a force plate. Dopamine depletion was verified through 99mTc-TRODAT-1 (SPECT-CT) examination. The subjects were in the off-stage of levodopa in all analysis. We evaluated 71 individuals, 32 with mild to moderate PD (HY 2 and 2.5) and 39 healthy individuals matched for gender, age, and height. There was a significant difference between the groups regarding the spatiotemporal variables of gait, as well as in the stabilometric variables. However, there was no correlation between these disturbances and the uptake values of 99mTc-TRODAT-1. The results indicate that there is no correlation between gait impairments and postural instability of individuals with mild to moderate PD and the dopaminergic depletion measured through the 99mTc-TRODAT-1 (SPECT-CT).

Análise cinemática da marcha pós protocolo de fadiga global de curta duração / Kinematic gait analysis post short-term global fatigue protocol

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os efeitos de um protocolo de fadiga global de curta duração sobre os parâmetros cinemáticos da marcha de indivíduos saudáveis. MÉTODOS: Fizeram parte da amostra 21 adultos jovens saudáveis. Foi realizada a análise de parâmetros da cinemática linear (velocidade, cadência, comprimento do passo, largura do passo e tempo do passo) e angular da marcha (flexão e extensão dos quadris; flexão e extensão dos joelhos; plantiflexão e dorsiflexão dos tornozelos) antes e após a realização de um protocolo de fadiga global de curta duração. Para a avaliação da marcha, foi utilizado um sistema de captura da trajetória tridimensional da marcha, composto por um sistema de cinemetria dotado de 7 câmeras integradas. O Protocolo de Fadiga de Agilidade Funcional de Curta Duração, que consiste em um protocolo de fadiga global de curta duração com séries de exercícios de agilidade funcional, foi utilizado para fadigar os participantes. Para as comparações entre as avaliações pré e pós-fadiga, os valores médios de cada avaliação foram utilizados e submetidos ao teste t pareado, e nível de significância adotado foi p<0,05. RESULTADOS: Não houveram diferenças estatisticamente significativas nos parâmetros angulares e lineares avaliados, exceto para cadência (p=0,03). CONCLUSÕES: O protocolo de fadiga global de curta duração não alterou os parâmetros angulares e cinemáticos da marcha em indivíduos jovens, exceto a cadência que se mostrou mais elevada após o protocolo de fadiga.

AIMS: Evaluate the effects of a short-term fatigue protocol on gait's kinematic parameters of healthy subjects. METHODS: 21 healthy young adults participated in the sample. The parameters of linear kinematics of gait (velocity, cadence, step length, step width, step time) and angular kinematics of gait (hip's flexion and extension; knee's flexion and extension; ankle's dorsiflexion and plantar flexion) were analyzed before and after performing a short-term fatigue protocol. For gait evaluation, a three-dimensional gait trajectory capture system was used, consisting of a kinematic system with 7 integrated cameras. The Short-Term Functional Agility Fatigue Protocol, which consists of a short-term global fatigue protocol with series of functional agility exercises, was used to fatigue participants. For comparisons between pre and post fatigue evaluations, the mean values to paired t test, and statistical significance was set as p<0.05. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences in the angular and linear parameters evaluated, except for cadence (p=0.03). CONCLUSIONS: The short-term global fatigue protocol did not alter the angular and kinematic gait parameters in young subjects, except for the cadence, that was higher after the fatigue protocol.

Análise Cinemática Linear e Angular da Marcha em Pacientes Amputados Transfemorais Protetizados / Linear and Angular Kinematic Analysis of the March on Prosthetic Transfemoral Amputes

A amputação leva a uma série de alterações funcionais na biomecânica corporal, gerando padrões alterados de postura e de marcha para compensar a perda do membro, sendo possível através da análise cinemática identificar as compensações e adequar o padrão de marcha. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar as alterações cinemáticas da marcha, em pacientes protetizados em nível transfemoral, considerando os valores da normalidade e do membro não afetado. Estudo descritivo, observacional, comparativo, transversal, no qual participaram 7 indivíduos, com idade média de 59 anos, com amputação transfemoral, já protetizados. Os pacientes foram selecionados na Clínica de Fisioterapia da Universidade de Caxias do Sul. Para análise da cinemática da marcha foi utilizado o Laboratório de Análises biomecânicas do Movimento Humano da Instituição, seguindo o protocolo descrito por Laroche. Para análise de dados foi utilizada a estatística descritiva e teste t pareado e one sample (p<0,05). Observaram-se inúmeras alterações na cinemática angular e linear destes indivíduos, tanto entre membros, quanto comparando com a normalidade, porém somente a flexão de quadril quando comparada com a normalidade mostrou diferença significativa estatística (p=0,009). O estudo indicou que existem alterações importantes na cinemática da marcha em amputados transfemorais comparando à normalidade e com o membro contralateral. Estas alterações podem estar relacionadas às questões de insegurança, falta de equilíbrio, propriocepção e instabilidade no membro afetado sobre a prótese, entre outros fatores musculoesqueléticos e biomecânicos ocasionados pela mudança do membro fisiológico pelo mecânico. (AU).

Amputation leads to a series of functional alterations on the corporal biomechanics and these generate altered posture patterns and the march as well. This is because it is necessary to compensate the loss of a limb. The objective of the study herein was to peform akinematic analysis to identify the compensation and to adequate the march pattern as well as the kinematic alterations of the march on prosthetic-limb patients regarding transfemoral issues taking into account the values of normality and the non-affected limb. It was a descriptive , observational, comparative and transversal studies in which 7 people with an average age of 59 years old participated. These people are tranfemoral amputees and they are already prosthetic-limb users. The patients were selected at the Physiotherapy Clinic of the Universidade of Caxias do Sul. The kinematic analysis took place at the Laboratory of Biomechanics and Human Movements and the protocol described by Laroche was followed. The data analysis was based on the paired t- test and on the one sample (p<0,05). Various alterations were observed on angular and linear kinematic of these persons. These alterations were noted as much among members as when comparing to normality but only the hip flexion, when compared to normality, showed significant statistics (p= 0,009). The study indicated that there are important alterations in the kinematic march in trasfemoral amputees compared to normality and compared to the contralateral limb. These alterations might be associated with insecurity, lack of balance confidence, proprioception, and instability of the limb affected on the prosthesis among other skeletal muscle system and biomechanic factors caused by the replacement of the physiological member by the mechanical one. (AU).