ABSTRACT
Objective: To compare the effect of quadriceps isometric exercises performed in two different positions in addition to the combined physical therapy program on pain, stiffness, and physical function in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Methods: A total of 30 patients with OA (age range 45 to 70 years) who were admitted to Istanbul Private Ekotom Medical Center, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Outpatient Clinic, were included. The patients were randomly divided into two groups according to the type of performing the quadriceps isometric exercises as group 1 (performing in knee extension, n = 14) and group 2 (performing in knee flexion, n = 15). All patients also received a combined physical therapy program. Exercise protocols were applied six days a week for four weeks. The pain was evaluated using a 10 cm visual analog scale for pain (VAS) in rest and activity; pain, joint stiffness, and physical function were assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Results: A significant difference was found in the VAS and WOMAC scores of both groups in group comparisons (p < 0.05). When the groups were compared in terms of change values, a significant difference was found in the WOMAC stiffness score in favor of group I (p < 0.05). Discussion. It is possible to obtain positive results with quadriceps isometric exercises to reduce pain and joint stiffness and increase physical function in patients with knee OA. However, exercises performed in knee extension were found to be more effective in reducing joint stiffness.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: The study was performed in order to determine the behavior of college students studying in health related departments for the early diagnosis of breast cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study is a cross sectional study. 336 female students studying in School of Nursing and School of Health Sciences at a foundation university in Istanbul were included. A questionnaire directed to collect data regarding the participants' socio-demographic characteristics and their behavior on the early diagnosis of breast cancer was used. Data were evaluated by descriptive statistics and chi-square test. RESULTS: The mean age of students was 21.26±1.94, and 30.7% of the participants majored in nutrition, 29.2% in nursing, 22.9% in midwifery, 17.3% in physical therapy and rehabilitation departments. It was determined that 53.3% of the students made regular breast self-examination (BSE), and 88.1% did not get a clinical breast examination (CBE) within the last year. It was noticed that students who had BSE training, made more BSE and CBE as compared to those who did not get any education. Students with family history of breast cancer was performing more BSE that those without a family history. It was identified that students with BSE training and family history of breast cancer used BSE at a higher rate. CONCLUSION: It was identified that students with BSE training and family history of breast cancer usage of techniques to perform a BSE at a higher rate.
