Translation, cross-cultural adaptation and clinimetric properties of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the Brace Questionnaire.

PURPOSE: To perform a cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Brazilian-Portuguese versions of the Brace Questionnaire in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. METHODS: A forward-backward translation process was employed to produce a Brazilian Portuguese version of the Brace Questionnaire, followed by comprehensive cross-cultural adaptation stages. The measurements of internal consistency and test-retest reliability were assessed by Cronbach's a and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), respectively. The Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to analyze the concurrent validity by comparison with the Scoliosis Research Society-22r questionnaire. RESULTS: A total of 84 scoliosis patients (age 13.4 ± 2.0 years, thoracic Cobb angle 33.3° ± 13.8°, and lumbar Cobb angle 29.8° ± 14.3°) were included. The Brace Questionnaire showed excellent internal consistency (Cronbach α = 0.93) and moderate reliability (ICC = 0.86). The correlations between the Brace Questionnaire and Scoliosis Research Society-22 were r = 0.66; p = 0.011. In addition, it was found that the Brazilian version of the Brace Questionnaire does not have ceiling and floor effects. CONCLUSIONS: The Brazilian-Portuguese adaptation of the brace questionnaire shows excellent reliability and can be a valid tool for psychometric assessment in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

Effect of a telerehabilitation exercise program versus a digital booklet with self-care for patients with chronic non-specific neck pain: a protocol of a randomized controlled trial assessor-blinded, 3 months follow-up.

BACKGROUND: Neck pain is the fourth worldwide leading cause of disability and represents 22% of musculoskeletal disorders. Conservative intervention has been strongly recommended to treat chronic neck pain and Telerehabilitation is the alternative for the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions. There is a lack of high-quality research on the effects of telerehabilitation in patients with neck pain and functional disability. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the effect of a telerehabilitation exercise program versus a digital booklet only with self-care information in individuals with non-specific chronic neck pain. METHODS: This is a prospectively registered, assessor-blinded, two-arm randomized controlled trial comparing a telerehabilitation exercise program versus a digital booklet with self-care information. Seventy patients will be recruited with non-specific chronic neck pain. Follow-ups will be conducted post-treatment, 6 weeks, and 3 months after randomization. The primary outcome will be disability at post-treatment (6 weeks) measured using neck pain disability. Secondary outcomes will be pain intensity levels, global perceived effect, self-efficacy, quality of life, kinesiophobia, and adherence to treatment. In our hypothesis, patients allocated to the intervention group experience outcomes that are similar to those of those assigned to the self-care digital booklet. Our hypothesis can then be approved or disapproved based on the results of the study. DISCUSSION: This randomized clinical trial will provide reliable information on the use of telerehabilitation to treat patients with chronic non-specific neck pain. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study was prospectively registered at the Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (number: RBR-10h7khvk). Registered on 16 September 2022.

Measurement properties of the Spinal Appearance Questionnaire in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Scoliosis is defined as a three-dimensional deformity of the spine characterized by lateral tilt and axial rotation of the vertebrae. Its magnitude in the frontal plane is identified by a Cobb angle greater than 10o. The aim of the study was to systematically examine the clinimetric properties of the Spinal Appearance Questionnaire (SAQ) in its cross-cultural adaptations in different languages. METHODS: Medline (PubMed), CINAHL, EMBASE, Science Direct, PsycINFO and WorldWideScience.org databases were used for screening studies until July 16, 2022. In this study, records on the development, evaluation and translation of the SAQ instrument in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis were included. In addition, two independent reviewers defined whether the studies were eligible and analyzed their psychometric properties of internal consistency, reliability, content validity, cross-cultural validity, construct validity and structural validity, according to the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN). The modified GRADE was applied for evidence synthesis. RESULTS: A total of 95 articles were selected by title and abstract. After removing duplicates and reading and searching the references, a total of 13 studies were included in this review. The original version of the SAQ was described in English, and the instrument was translated into Polish, Canadian French, Simplified Chinese, Spanish (Europe), Danish, Traditional Chinese, Portuguese (Brazil), Korean, German, Turkish and Persian. The evidence was moderate for construct validity, low for internal consistency, and very low for reliability and cross-cultural validity; the content and structural validity properties did not present minimum data for classification. CONCLUSION: The quality of the evidence regarding the clinimetric properties of the SAQ instrument in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis was low due to the absence of clinimetric properties or dubious methodological quality. However, for clinical practice and research, we recommend the use of the instrument to assess the self-perception of the spine in adolescents. For future translations and adaptations, we recommend the use of the COSMIN guidelines.

Síndrome da Rede Axilar após Tratamento para Câncer de Mama: Revisão Sistemática com Metanálise / Occurrence and Risk Factors with Axillary Network Syndrome after Breast Cancer Treatment: Systematic Review with Meta-analysis / Ocurrencia y Factores Asociados con el Síndrome de la Red Axilar después del Tratamiento del Cáncer de Mama: Revisión Sistemática con Metaanálisis

Introdução: O câncer de mama é o mais incidente nas mulheres e a cirurgia é o principal tratamento de escolha. A síndrome da rede axilar (SRA) é uma condição recorrente que ocorre em até 86% das pacientes após cirurgia, se apresenta como um único cordão ou múltiplos cordões nos tecidos subcutâneos da axila ipsilateral e gera dor e limitação do movimento. Objetivo: Investigar estudos sobre a ocorrência e fatores associados à SRA após tratamento do câncer de mama. Método: Revisão sistemática com metanálise, nas bases de dados PubMed, LILACS e EMBASE, com a metodologia PECOS, seguindo a diretriz PRISMA. Resultados: Cinco artigos foram selecionados, com taxa de ocorrência da SRA de 35%. Os fatores associados encontrados apresentaram um menor risco relativo (RR) de recorrência para quem realizou biópsia de linfonodo sentinela em comparação aos que se submeteram à dissecção axilar (RR 0,49; IC 95% [0,42; 0,57] I²=95%, p=0,01). Houve uma variação de 35% a 39% de desenvolvimento para a SRA em pacientes que se submeteram à quimioterapia e radioterapia, porém o tipo de cirurgia não teve resultado estatisticamente significativo para o desencadeamento da síndrome. Conclusão: Indivíduos que realizaram biópsia de linfonodo sentinela têm menos chance de desenvolver a SRA quando comparados aos que fizeram dissecção axilar. As terapias oncológicas apresentaram proporções parecidas de aparecimento da SRA e o tipo de cirurgia não interferiu na evolução da patologia.

Introduction: Breast cancer is the most common in women and surgery is the main treatment of choice. Axillary Web Syndrome (AWS) is a recurrent condition that occurs in up to 86% after surgery, presenting as a single cord or multiple cords in the subcutaneous tissues of the ipsilateral axilla, causing pain and limitation of movement. Objective: To investigate studies about the occurrence and factors associated with AWS post breast cancer treatment. Method: Systematic review with meta-analysis based in the PECOS methodology according to PRISMA guidelines at the databases PubMed, LILACS and EMBASE. Results: Five articles were selected with rate of occurrence of 35% of AWS. The associated factors found showed a minor relative risk (RR) of recurrence in those who underwent sentinel lymph node biopsy compared to those who were submitted to axillary dissection (RR 0.49; 95%CI [0.42;0.57] I²=95%, p=0.01). The appearance of AWS ranged from 35% to 39% in patients who submitted to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, but the type of surgery did not have a statistically significant result for triggering the syndrome. Conclusion: Individuals who underwent sentinel lymph node biopsy are less likely to develop the syndrome when compared to those who submitted to axillary dissection. Oncological therapies had similar percentages for the appearance of AWS and the type of surgery did not interfere in the evolution of the pathology.

Introducción: El cáncer de mama es el más común en las mujeres e la cirugía es considerada el tratamiento de elección. El síndrome de la red axilar (SRA) es una condición recurrente que ocurre hasta en un 86% de las pacientes después de la cirugía, se presenta como un cordón único o múltiples cordones en los tejidos subcutáneos de la axila isolateral, y causa dolor y limitación del movimiento. Objetivo: Investigar estudios sobre la ocurrencia y factores asociados al SRA después del tratamiento del cáncer de mama. Método: Revisión sistemática con metaanálisis, en las bases de datos PubMed, LILACS y EMBASE, con la metodología PECOS, siguiendo la guía PRISMA. Resultados: Se seleccionaron cinco artículos, con la tasa de ocurrencia del SRA del 35%. Los factores asociados encontrados mostraron un menor riesgo relativo (RR) de recurrencia para quien realizó biopsia de ganglio centinela en comparación con las que se sometieron a la disección axilar (RR 0,49; IC 95% [0,42;0,57] I²=95%, p=0,01). Hubo una variación del 35% al 39% de desarrollo del SRA en pacientes que se sometieron a la quimioterapia y radioterapia, aunque el tipo de cirugía no tuvo un resultado estadísticamente significativo para desencadenar el síndrome. Conclusión: Las personas que se sometieron a una biopsia de ganglio centinela tienen menos probabilidades de desarrollar el SRA en comparación con aquellas que se sometieron a disección axilar. Las terapias oncológicas presentaron proporciones parecidas de aparición del SRA y el tipo de cirugía no interfirió en la evolución de la patología.

The Impact of Training Time on Understanding the Treatment of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis According to SOSORT International Guidelines: An Online Survey Study.

The lack of knowledge by health professionals in the management of scoliosis can lead to an erroneous diagnosis. The aim of the current study was to understand the influence of length of professional experience on the knowledge of Brazilian physical therapists regarding international guidelines for the treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The study was conducted using an online questionnaire consisting of 23 questions, divided into 8 questions on sociodemographic data and 15 questions based on information provided by the guidelines in the SOSORT 2016. In total, 506 physiotherapists were interviewed, and they comprised the study sample. The results showed that professionals who have been working for more than 6 years in the field have greater knowledge of AIS, seek to become more professional, and with that, have an understanding of AIS that is more aligned with the SOSORT. Length of experience made a difference when considering knowledge of the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis. The present study showed that a time since graduation of 6 years or more was satisfactory.

Low Back Pain in Elderly from Belém-Pa, Brazil: Prevalence and Association with Functional Disability.

BACKGROUND: This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence of low back pain (LBP) in the elderly population living in Belém-Pará and to assess the spectrum of problems related to these diseases including the demographic, socioeconomic, occupational characteristics and disability in this population. METHODS: Three structured questionnaires were applied in a randomly selected representative sample of 512 elderly people aged ≥60 years. RESULTS: LBP prevalence in the elderly population was 55.7%. Among then, 56.1% had pain at the time of the interview (punctual prevalence), 91.7% had LBP in the last 365 days (prevalence in the last year), and 85.3% at some point in life (prevalence at some point in life). Overall, most studies are above average. LBP was positively associated with hypertension and the influence of the physical and mental health on their social activities ranged from slightly to extreme. LBP was negatively associated with characteristics, such as education (over 11 years), class A or B income, physical activity, high satisfaction with previous work, and excellent self-perceived health, corroborating to the literature. CONCLUSIONS: Greater intensity of pain and functional disability were associated with the presence of comorbidities, smoking habits, and low physical activity. LBP prevalence was high, above the national average, mainly affecting the underprivileged classes related to several modifiable factors, highlighting the importance of preventive and interventionist actions for healthy aging.

Comparison of the effects of low-level laser and pulsed and continuous ultrasound on pain and physical disability in chronic non-specific low back pain: a randomized controlled clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the short-term effects of pulsed laser and pulsed and continuous ultrasound on pain and functional disability in women with chronic non-specific low back pain. METHODS: The sample was composed of 100 volunteers randomly allocated into four groups: The Pulsed Laser Group (n = 26) was treated with 3 J/cm2; the Pulsed Ultrasound Group (n = 24; 3 MHz) was treated with 1 W/cm2; the Continuous Ultrasound Group (n = 26; 1 MHz) was treated with 1 W/cm2; and a Control Group (n = 24), where the patients were still waiting for treatment. Before and after 10 sessions of treatment, the intensity of pain was assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS), the quality of pain was evaluated using the McGill pain questionnaire and functional disability was investigated using the Roland-Morris questionnaire. RESULTS: The three treated groups exhibited a decrease in pain (p < 0.001); the Pulsed Laser Group showed the greater relative gain (91.2%), Meanwhile, the Control Group exhibited a worsening of - 5.8%. The three treated groups demonstrated improvement in the quality of pain (McGill) in the total, sensory and affective dimensions (p < 0.005; p < 0.002; p < 0.013, respectively). All treated groups showed a decrease in functional disability (p < 0.001), but the Pulsed Ultrasound Group showed the highest relative gain (83.3%). CONCLUSIONS: The three modalities have significant effects to decreasing low back pain and improving functional disability in women with non-specific chronic low back pain, but the pulsed low-level laser had the best results on pain while the pulsed ultrasound had the best results on improve the functional disability. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02150096.

Motor Control Training Compared With Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation in Patients With Disc Herniation With Associated Radiculopathy: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to compare the effectiveness of motor control training and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in relieving pain, reducing functional disability, and improving transversus abdominis activation in patients with lumbar disc herniation with associated radiculopathy. DESIGN: This is a randomized controlled trial. METHODS: Forty patients diagnosed with lumbar disc herniation were randomly divided into two groups: motor control training group (n = 20) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation group (n = 20). INTERVENTIONS: The motor control training group and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation group attended 60 mini sessions twice a week for 8 wks, totaling to 16 sessions. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The main outcome measures are pain, functional disability, and transversus abdominis activation capacity. RESULTS: Differences between both groups were observed after 8 wks, favoring the motor control training group. Motor control training was more effective than transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in relieving pain (mean difference = 3.3 points, 95% confidence interval = 2.12-4.48), reducing functional disability (mean difference = 8.4 points, 95% confidence interval = 5.44-11.36), improving the quality of pain (mean difference = 17 points, 95% confidence interval = 7.93-26.07), sensory quality of pain (mean difference = 10.3 points, 95% confidence interval = 5.55-15.05), and transversus abdominis activation (mean difference = 1.5 points, 95% confidence interval = 0.90-2.10). CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that motor control training is more effective than transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation with respect to relieving pain, reducing functional disability, and improving transversus abdominis activation in patients with lumbar disc herniation.

Comparison of the effects of low-level laser and pulsed and continuous ultrasound on pain and physical disability in chronic nonspecific low back pain: a randomized controlled clinical trial

Abstract Objective: To compare the short-term effects of pulsed laser and pulsed and continuous ultrasound on pain and functional disability in women with chronic non-specific low back pain. Methods: The sample was composed of 100 volunteers randomly allocated into four groups: The Pulsed Laser Group (n = 26) was treated with 3 J/cm2; the Pulsed Ultrasound Group (n = 24; 3 MHz) was treated with 1 W/cm2; the Continuous Ultrasound Group (n = 26; 1 MHz) was treated with 1 W/cm2; and a Control Group (n = 24), where the patients were still waiting for treatment. Before and after 10 sessions of treatment, the intensity of pain was assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS), the quality of pain was evaluated using the McGill pain questionnaire and functional disability was investigated using the Roland-Morris questionnaire. Results: The three treated groups exhibited a decrease in pain (p < 0.001); the Pulsed Laser Group showed the greater relative gain (91.2%), Meanwhile, the Control Group exhibited a worsening of - 5.8%. The three treated groups demonstrated improvement in the quality of pain (McGill) in the total, sensory and affective dimensions (p < 0.005; p < 0.002; p < 0.013, respectively). All treated groups showed a decrease in functional disability (p < 0.001), but the Pulsed Ultrasound Group showed the highest relative gain (83.3%). Conclusions: The three modalities have significant effects to decreasing low back pain and improving functional disability in women with non-specific chronic low back pain, but the pulsed low-level laser had the best results on pain while the pulsed ultrasound had the best results on improve the functional disability. Trial registration:ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02150096.

Comparison Between Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation and Stabilization Exercises in Fatigue and Transversus Abdominis Activation in Patients With Lumbar Disk Herniation: A Randomized Study.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to compare transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and stabilization exercises in an attempt to prevent fatigue and improve muscle activation in patients with lumbar disk herniation associated with low back pain. METHODS: This study involved 29 patients (age range 25-58 years) randomized into 2 groups: the segmental stabilization group (n = 15), who received stabilization exercises on the transversus abdominis (TrA) and lumbar multifidus muscles; and the TENS group (n = 14), who received electrotherapy. Groups underwent 16 sessions, for 60 minutes, twice per week, and they were evaluated before and after intervention. Pain was measured using a visual analog scale, functional disability using the Oswestry Disability Index, muscle activation and fatigue with electromyography, and patients' ability to contract the TrA with a pressure biofeedback unit. Analyses within and between groups were performed. RESULTS: The stabilization group improved lumbar multifidus fatigue (median frequency [MF] initial [P = .002], MF final [P < .001], MF slope [P = .001], and resistance time [P < .001]), ability to contract the TrA (P < .001), pain (P < .001), and functional disability (P < .001). TENS only was effective for pain (P = .012). CONCLUSION: Although it relieved pain, TENS was not effective as a single treatment to prevent fatigue, increase TrA contraction, and reduce functional disability in herniated disk patients. Stabilization exercises alone improved all measured outcomes.

Effectiveness of graded activity versus physiotherapy in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain: midterm follow up results of a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Low back pain (LBP) is a major health and economic problem worldwide. Graded activity and physiotherapy are commonly used interventions for nonspecific low back pain. However, there is currently little evidence to support the use of one intervention over the other in the medium-term. OBJECTIVE: To compare the effectiveness of graded activity exercises to physiotherapy-based exercises at mid-term (three and six months' post intervention) in patients with chronic nonspecific LBP. METHODS: Sixty-six patients were randomly allocated to two groups: graded activity group (n=33) and physiotherapy group (n=33). These patients received individual sessions twice a week for six weeks. Follow-up measurements were taken at three and six months. The main outcome measurements were intensity pain (Pain Numerical Rating Scale) and disability (Rolland Morris Disability Questionnaire). RESULTS: No significant differences between groups after three and six month-follow ups were observed. Both groups showed similar outcomes for pain intensity at three months [between group differences: -0.1 (95% confidence interval [CI]=-1.5 to 1.2)] and six months [0.1 (95% CI=-1.1 to 1.5)], disability at three months was [-0.6 (95% CI=-3.4 to 2.2)] and six months [0.0 (95% CI=-2.9 to 3.0)]. CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest that graded activity and physiotherapy have similar effects in the medium-term for patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain.

A cross-sectional study of associations between kinesiophobia, pain, disability, and quality of life in patients with chronic low back pain.

BACKGROUND: Low back pain is a significant health problem condition due to high prevalence among the general population. Emotions and physical factors are believed to play a role in chronic low back pain. Kinesiophobia is one of the most extreme forms of fear of pain due to movement or re-injury. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between kinesiophobia and pain intensity, disability and quality of life in people with chronic low back pain. METHODS: The study included 132 individuals with chronic back pain, with ages between 18 and 65 years old. Kinesiophobia was assessed using the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia, pain intensity was measured using the Numeric Rating Scale with a cut-off more than 3 for inclusion in the study, disability was assessed using the Roland Morris questionnaire, quality of pain was assessed using the McGill questionnaire, and quality of life was assessed using the Quality of Life questionnaire SF-36. RESULTS: The results are statistically significant, but with weak associations were found between kinesiophobia and pain intensity (r = 0.187), quality of pain (sensory, r = 0.266; affective, r = - 0.174; and total r = 0.275), disability (r = 0.399) and physical quality of life (emotional r = - 0.414). CONCLUSION: Kinesiophobia is an important outcome to assess in patients with chronic low back pain. The results suggest that correlations between kinesiophobia and disability and quality of life are statistically significant.

Q-angle in patellofemoral pain: relationship with dynamic knee valgus, hip abductor torque, pain and function.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between the q-angle and anterior knee pain severity, functional capacity, dynamic knee valgus and hip abductor torque in women with patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). METHODS: This study included 22 women with PFPS. The q-angle was assessed using goniometry: the participants were positioned in dorsal decubitus with the knee and hip extended, and the hip and foot in neutral rotation. Anterior knee pain severity was assessed using a visual analog scale, and functional capacity was assessed using the anterior knee pain scale. Dynamic valgus was evaluated using the frontal plane projection angle (FPPA) of the knee, which was recorded using a digital camera during step down, and hip abductor peak torque was recorded using a handheld dynamometer. RESULTS: The q-angle did not present any significant correlation with severity of knee pain (r = -0.29; p = 0.19), functional capacity (r = -0.08; p = 0.72), FPPA (r = -0.28; p = 0.19) or isometric peak torque of the abductor muscles (r = -0.21; p = 0.35). CONCLUSION: The q-angle did not present any relationship with pain intensity, functional capacity, FPPA, or hip abductor peak torque in the patients with PFPS.

OBJETIVO: Investigar a relação entre o ângulo-q e intensidade da dor anterior no joelho, capacidade funcional, valgo dinâmico de joelho e torque abdutor do quadril em mulheres com síndrome da dor patelofemoral (SDPF). MÉTODOS: Participaram do estudo 22 mulheres com SDPF. O ângulo-q foi avaliado pela goniometria, as participantes foram posicionadas em decúbito dorsal com joelho e quadril estendido e quadril e pé em rotação neutra. A intensidade da dor anterior do joelho foi avaliada pela escala visual analógica de dor e a capacidade funcional com a escala de dor anterior no joelho. O valgo dinâmico foi avaliado pelo ângulo de projeção no plano frontal do joelho (APPF), registrado com câmera digital durante step down, e o pico de torque dos abdutores do quadril com dinamômetro manual. RESULTADOS: O ângulo-q não apresentou correlação significativa com a intensidade da dor no joelho (r = −0,29; p = 0,19), capacidade funcional (r = −0,08; p = 0,72), ângulo de projeção no plano frontal do joelho (r = −0,28; p = 0,19) e pico de torque isométrico dos músculos abdutores (r = −0,21; p = 0,35). CONCLUSÃO: O ângulo-q não apresentou relação com a intensidade da dor, capacidade funcional, ângulo de projeção no plano frontal do joelho e pico de torque dos abdutores do quadril em pacientes com SDPF.

Q-angle in patellofemoral pain: relationship with dynamic knee valgus, hip abductor torque, pain and function / Ângulo-q na dor patelofemoral: relação com valgo dinâmico de joelho, torque abdutor do quadril, dor e função

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between the q-angle and anterior knee pain severity, functional capacity, dynamic knee valgus and hip abductor torque in women with patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). METHODS: This study included 22 women with PFPS. The q-angle was assessed using goniometry: the participants were positioned in dorsal decubitus with the knee and hip extended, and the hip and foot in neutral rotation. Anterior knee pain severity was assessed using a visual analog scale, and functional capacity was assessed using the anterior knee pain scale. Dynamic valgus was evaluated using the frontal plane projection angle (FPPA) of the knee, which was recorded using a digital camera during step down, and hip abductor peak torque was recorded using a handheld dynamometer. RESULTS: The q-angle did not present any significant correlation with severity of knee pain (r = -0.29; p = 0.19), functional capacity (r = -0.08; p = 0.72), FPPA (r = -0.28; p = 0.19) or isometric peak torque of the abductor muscles (r = -0.21; p = 0.35). CONCLUSION: The q-angle did not present any relationship with pain intensity, functional capacity, FPPA, or hip abductor peak torque in the patients with PFPS.

OBJETIVO: Investigar a relação entre o ângulo-q e intensidade da dor anterior no joelho, capacidade funcional, valgo dinâmico de joelho e torque abdutor do quadril em mulheres com síndrome da dor patelofemoral (SDPF). MÉTODOS: Participaram do estudo 22 mulheres com SDPF. O ângulo-q foi avaliado pela goniometria, as participantes foram posicionadas em decúbito dorsal com joelho e quadril estendido e quadril e pé em rotação neutra. A intensidade da dor anterior do joelho foi avaliada pela escala visual analógica de dor e a capacidade funcional com a escala de dor anterior no joelho. O valgo dinâmico foi avaliado pelo ângulo de projeção no plano frontal do joelho (APPF), registrado com câmera digital durante step down, e o pico de torque dos abdutores do quadril com dinamômetro manual. RESULTADOS: O ângulo-q não apresentou correlação significativa com a intensidade da dor no joelho (r = -0,29; p = 0,19), capacidade funcional (r = -0,08; p = 0,72), ângulo de projeção no plano frontal do joelho (r = -0,28; p = 0,19) e pico de torque isométrico dos músculos abdutores (r = -0,21; p = 0,35). CONCLUSÃO: O ângulo-q não apresentou relação com a intensidade da dor, capacidade funcional, ângulo de projeção no plano frontal do joelho e pico de torque dos abdutores do quadril em pacientes com SDPF.

Are lumbar multifidus fatigue and transversus abdominis activation similar in patients with lumbar disc herniation and healthy controls? A case control study.

PURPOSE: The aims of this study were to assess lumbar multifidus fatigue (LM) and transversus abdominis activation (TrA) in individuals with lumbar disc herniation associated with low back pain. METHODS: Sixty individuals were divided into the lumbar herniation (LHG, n = 30) and control groups (CG, n = 30). Fatigue of the LM was assessed using surface electromyography during the Sorensen effort test, and activation of the TrA with a pressure biofeedback unit. Pain intensity was determined using a visual analog scale and the McGill pain questionnaire. The Oswestry disability questionnaire and the Borg scale for self-evaluating exertion were used to assess functional disability. RESULTS: Fatigue was significantly more intense and the TrA activation was insufficient (p < 0.01) in individuals with disc herniation relative to the control group. The LHG had mild functional disability and moderate pain. There were differences in the initial exertion self-evaluation between groups, which were not observed in the final exertion evaluation. CONCLUSION: Individuals with lumbar disc herniation associated with low back pain have increased fatigue of the LM and decreased activation of the TrA, when compared to the control group.

Relationship between frontal plane projection angle of the knee and hip and trunk strength in women with and without patellofemoral pain.

BACKGROUND: It is theorized that increased dynamic knee valgus relates to decreased hip posterolateral muscle strength. OBJECTIVE: The aim here was to assess the relationship between the frontal plane projection angle (FPPA) of the knee and hip and trunk muscle strength in women with and without patellofemoral pain (PFP). METHODS: The sample comprised 43 women: Patellofemoral Pain Group (PPG, n = 22) and Control Group (CG, n = 21). Muscle strength for hip abduction, extension, external rotation and lateral core were measured using a handheld dynamometer. The FPPA was recorded during step-down. RESULTS: The PPG showed a deficit for hip muscles torque and increased FPPA (P < 0.05). Negative correlation of the FPPA-Peak was found in the CG for the hip abductor (r = -0.31) and posterolateral complex (r = -0.32) (P < 0.05). In the PPG, the FPPA-Peak showed a moderate negative correlation to the torque of external rotators and posterolateral hip muscles, although this correlation did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that women with patellofemoral pain present greater dynamic knee valgus and hip muscle weakness. Abductor and posterolateral hip muscles strength are associated with increased FPPA only in the pain-free population.

Efeito da terapia cognitivo-comportamental e exercícios versus programa de exercícios supervisionados em pacientes com dor lombar crônica não específica: estudo controlado aleatorizado / Effect of cognitive behavioral therapy plus exercise versus supervised exercise program in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain: a randomized controlled trial

Comparar a efetividade da atividade gradual versus programa de exercícios supervisionados em pacientes com dor lombar crônica não específica para os desfechos intensidade da dor, qualidade da dor, incapacidade funcional, qualidade de vida, percepção do efeito global, retorno ao trabalho, atividade física, capacidade física e cinesiofobia. Método: Participaram do estudo 66 indivíduos com idade entre 18 a 65 anos com dor lombar crônica não específica, randomizados em dois grupos: Grupo atividade gradual (n=33) e Grupo fisioterapia (n=33). Os desfechos primários foram: intensidade da dor (Escala Numérica de dor) e incapacidade funcional (Questionário de Incapacidade de Roland Morris) e os defechos secundários: Qualidade da dor (Questionário de dor de McGill) qualidade de vida (Short-Form Health Survey Questionnaire), Percepção do Efeito Global (Escala de Percepção do Efeito Global), retorno ao trabalho, atividade física (Questionário de atividade física habitual de Baecke), capacidade física (Teste sentado para de pé e Teste de Caminhada de 15,2 metros), cinesiofobia (Escala Tampa para Cinesiofobia). As intervenções foram individualizadas, com duração de uma hora, por seis semanas e frequência de duas vezes por semana. Cada indivíduo foi avaliado na linha de base e no follow up de seis semanas, três e seis meses após o tratamento. O nível de significância estabelecido foi de ?=0,05. Resultados: Após seis meses, ambos os grupos melhoraram, porém não houve diferença significante entre os grupos para intensidade da dor (média da diferença de 0,1 pontos; IC a 95% -1,1 a 1,5) e incapacidade funcional (média da diferença de 0,0; IC a 95% -2,9 a 3,0). Não foram encontradas diferenças estatisticamente significante entre os grupos para os demais desfechos. Conclusão: Nossos resultados sugerem que atividade gradual e fisioterapia apresentam efetividade similar na redução da intensidade da dor e melhora da incapacidade funcional em pacientes com dor lombar...

To compare the effectiveness of graded activity versus physiotherapy in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain for pain intensity, quality of pain, disability, quality of life, global perceive effect, return to work, physical capacity and kinesiophobia. Methods: Sixty-six patients between 18 to 65 years old with chronic nonspecific low back pain were randomized into two groups: Graded activity group (n=33) and physiotherapy group (n = 33). The primary outcomes were: Intensity pain (Numerical Pain Scale) and disability (Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire). The secondary outcomes were: Quality of pain (McGill Pain Questionnaire), quality of life (Short-Form Health Survey Questionnaire), Global perceived effect (Global perceived effect scale), return to work, physical activity (Baecke Questionnaire of Habitual Physical Activity), physical capacity (sit-to-stand test and 15.24m walk test) and kinesiophobia (Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia) The intervention was individualized, twice a week, one hour for six weeks. The participants were assessment for a blind assessor in the baseline and six weeks, three and six month's follow-up. The level of significance was established in ?=0.05. Results: After six weeks, both groups improved, but we not observed significance difference between groups (mean difference 0.1 points; CI 95% -1.1 a 1.5) and disability (mean difference 0.0; IC a 95% -2.9 a 3.0). We not observed statistical difference between groups for all outcomes. Conclusion: Our study provide high quality evidence that graded activity and physiotherapy have similar effectiveness reducing intensity pain and disability in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain...

Does anterior knee pain severity and function relate to the frontal plane projection angle and trunk and hip strength in women with patellofemoral pain?

The aim of the present study was to determine the relationship between knee pain severity and function with the frontal plane projection angle (FPPA) and trunk and hip peak torque (PT) in women with patellofemoral pain (PFPS). Twenty-two women with PFPS were assessed. Knee pain severity (KPS) was assessed with an 11-point visual analog scale and function with an Anterior Knee Pain Scale. The FPPA was recorded with a digital camera. PT of extensors, abductors, and the lateral rotators of hip and lateral core stability were measured with a handheld dynamometer. FPPA was the only predictor for the KPS. Regarding predictors of function, PT of lateral core stability and the extensor and abductor of the hip explained 41.4% of the function. Increase in FPPA was associated with greater KPS, and the lowest PT of lateral core stability, hip abductors, and extensors was associated with lower function in women with PFPS.

The short-term effects of graded activity versus physiotherapy in patients with chronic low back pain: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Chronic low back pain is one of the most common problematic health conditions worldwide and is highly associated with disability, quality of life, emotional changes, and work absenteeism. Graded activity programs, based on cognitive behavioral therapy, and exercises are common treatments for patients with low back pain. However, recent evidence has shown that there is no evidence to support graded activity for patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain. AIM: to compare the effectiveness of graded activity and physiotherapy in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain. METHODS: A total of 66 patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain were randomized to perform either graded activity (moderate intensity treadmill walking, brief education and strength exercises) or physiotherapy (strengthening, stretching and motor control). These patients received individual sessions twice a week for six weeks. The primary measures were intensity of pain (Pain Numerical Rating Scale) and disability (Rolland Morris Disability Questionnaire). RESULTS: After six weeks, significant improvements have been observed in all outcome measures of both groups, with a non-significant difference between the groups. For intensity of pain (mean difference = 0.1 points, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -1.1-1.3) and disability (mean difference = 0.8 points, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -2.6-4.2). No differences were found in the remaining outcomes. CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest that graded activity and physiotherapy showed to be effective and have similar effects for patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain.

Postural control in individuals with and without non-specific chronic low back pain: a preliminary case-control study.

STUDY DESIGN: A preliminary case-control study. OBJECTIVE: To assess postural control in individuals with and without non-specific chronic low back pain (cLBP) during quiet standing. cLBP affects 12-33 % of the adult population. Reasons for pain chronicity are yet poorly known. Change in postural control may be a risk factor for cLBP, although available studies are not conclusive. METHODS: Sample consisted of 21 individuals with cLBP and 23 controls without cLBP. Balance was assessed using a force plate (Balance Master, NeuroCom) by the modified clinical test of sensory interaction and balance, pain severity by the visual analogue scale, quality of life with the SF-36 Questionnaire, and functional disability with the Roland-Morris Questionnaire. RESULTS: Groups were homogeneous for age, weight, height and body mass index. Relative to controls, participants in the cLBP group had deficits in the postural control, with greater postural sway in the quiet standing condition with closed eyes closed on unstable surfaces (p < 0.05) for the following parameters: total COP oscillation [cLBP 1,432.82 (73.27) vs CG 1,187.77 (60.30)], root mean square sagittal plane [cLBP 1.21 (0.06) vs CG 1.04 (0.04)], COP area [cLBP 24.27 (2.47) vs CG 16.45 (1.79)] and mean speed of oscillation [cLBP 12.97 (0.84) vs CG 10.55 (0.70)]. CONCLUSION: Postural control, as evidenced by increased oscillation of COP, is impaired in individuals with cLBP relative to controls. Differences are magnified by visual deprivation and unstable surface conditions.