Postural balance and functional mobility in relation to BMI and body composition among female students at a College of Applied Medical Sciences: A cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to compare different Body Mass Index (BMI) categories, body composition parameters, postural balance, and functional mobility among female students at a College of Applied Medical Sciences; and examine the relationship between BMI and body composition with postural balance and functional mobility among female students at the college of applied medical sciences. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Female students, aged 18‒25 years old. They were subdivided into four groups according to their BMI category: underweight, normal, overweight, or obese, with n = 20 participants in each group. A Bioelectrical Impedance Human Body Analyzer (BIA) was used to assess the following body composition parameters: Fat Percentage (FATP), fat mass, muscle mass, and Total Body Water (TBW). A NeuroCom Balance Master was used to assess postural balance and functional mobility. A Timed Up and Go (TUG) test was employed to assess functional mobility. All data were analyzed using SPSS. RESULTS: Participants' ages and heights were matched (p > 0.05). However, there were variables that were statistically significantly higher in terms of weight, BMI and body composition, including FATP, fat mass, muscle mass, and TBW (p = 0.000), among the obese group. Moreover, postural balance was lower among the obese group. There was a significant relationship between BMI and body composition variables in respect of postural balance but not in relation to functional mobility. CONCLUSION: Postural instability but not functional mobility was related to higher BMI and body composition values among the study groups.

The decline in postural balance has a negative impact on the performance of functional tasks in individuals with Parkinson's Disease.

INTRODUCTION: An accurate assessment of balance problems is critical for decreasing the risk of falling in patients with Parkinson's Disease (PD). Reliable diagnostic tools such as Computerized Dynamic Posturography (CDP) are not feasible for the clinical setting. Therefore, the present study's aim was to assess the correlation between the clinical Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest) and CDP. METHODS: 20 male older adults with Parkinson's Disease (PD) were included in this study. Participants first executed the Sit-To-Stand (STS), Step/Quick turn (SQT), and Step Up and Over (SUO) tests on a Balance Master® force platform, followed by a clinical balance evaluation using the BESTest. RESULTS: Four outcomes of the CDP were negatively correlated with one or more BESTest domains or total BESTest score: STS sway velocity was negatively correlated with the anticipatory postural adjustment (p = 0.02) and sensory orientation (p = 0.01) domains. SQT turn time was negatively correlated with biomechanical restriction (for turns to the left, p = 0.01, and right, p = 0.03, respectively), postural response (p = 0.01, p = 0.01), dynamic balance during gait (p = 0.007, p = 0.001), and total score (p = 0.02, p = 0.01). Step over time to the right in SUP was negatively correlated with the limits of the stability domain (p = 0.002) and total BESTest score (p = 0.020). SUO impact index was negatively correlated with the anticipatory postural adjustment domain (p = 0.01). CONCLUSION: This study shows that several BESTest domains are significantly correlated with CDP outcomes, demonstrating that the BESTest can be used as a more clinically feasible alternative for computerized posturography, without loss of information.

Association Between Depressive Symptoms, Cognitive Status, and the Dual-Task Performance Index in Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The Performance Index (P-Index) is a measure for evaluating mobility-related dual-task performance in older adults. The identification of specific clinicodemographic factors predictive of P-Index scores, however, remains unclear. This cross-sectional study analyzed data from 120 community-dwelling older adults (average age 71.3 ± 11.23 years) to explore clinicodemographic variables that influence P-Index scores during the instrumented timed up and go test. Unadjusted analyses suggested several factors, including age, gender, body mass index, Mini-Mental Status Examination scores, functional reach test performance, history of falls, ethnicity, Geriatric Depression Scale scores, alcohol consumption, and educational levels, as potential predictors of P-Index. However, adjusted multinomial multiple regression analysis revealed Geriatric Depression Scale and Mini-Mental Status Examination scores as the exclusive independent predictors of P-Index classifications, segmented into high, intermediate, or low (percentiles ≤ 25, 26-74, or ≥ 75, respectively). A significant association was observed between the manifestation of depressive symptoms, lower Mini-Mental Status Examination scores, and reduced cognitive-motor performance. The findings implicate depressive symptoms and low cognitive performance as substantial impediments to optimal dual-task mobility within this cohort. Further studies are warranted to examine the efficacy of cognitive stimulation and antidepressant therapy, in augmenting mobility-related dual-task performance among older adults.

Can Dance Improve Turning in People With Parkinson's Disease?

Objective: To investigate the effects of a dance intervention on selected functional parameters during the 180° turning phase of the Timed Up & Go (TUG) test in people with Parkinson's Disease (PwPD). Methods: Fifteen adults clinically diagnosed with idiopathic PD were allocated into dance intervention (DIG; n = 7 ; age 73 ± 2 years) and control (CG; n = 8; age 64 ± 5 years) groups. The dance intervention lasted for 3 months (1 hour, twice a week). At baseline, all participants completed the Unified PD Rating Scale-part III, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-short form, and the Hoehn & Yahr scale. Pre- and post-intervention, the primary outcomes were measured (number of steps and time to complete the 180° turning phase of the TUG test) at 2 speeds (comfortable walking and as quickly and safely speed) while using the Xsens® 3D motion suit. The secondary outcome (girdle dissociation) was assessed by calculating the difference between pelvis and affected shoulder orientation in the transverse plane (dissociation angles) at each data point during the TUG test's 180° turning phase. Results: At participant's comfortable walking speed, the functionality during the 180° turning remained unaffected following the dance intervention. However, at participant's fast speed, the dance intervention group significantly reduced the number of steps with a large effect size, and the total time taken to complete the 180° turning with a medium effect size. Post-intervention, most participants in the dance intervention group reduced the affected shoulder and pelvic girdle dissociation and turned more "en bloc." Conclusion: Dance can improve selected functional parameters during the 180° turning at fast speed in PwPD. The current results should be considered in rehabilitation programs.

Effects of 12-Weeks of Home-Based Exercise Training on Physical and Cognitive Function of Older Adults: Randomized Trial Comparing Virtual Versus Minimal Supervision in the Context of the Covid-19 Pandemic in Brazil.

Background: We investigated the effects of a 12-week home-based exercise program delivered with virtual or minimal supervision on the physical and cognitive function of community-dwelling older adults in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. Methods: The study was registered on the Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials platform (code: RBR-8qby2wt). Thirty-eight older adults (81% female and 68±7 years old), non-disabled, and without cognitive impairment or dementia, were randomly assigned to a 12-week home-based exercise program: 1) virtual supervision (classes remotely delivered through video conference by trained staff), or 2) minimal supervision (once-weekly contact to touch base through standardized text messages). The participants initially performed two sets of 10 repetitions three times a week, with a 60-second interval. The volume and complexity of the exercises were progressively increased. (e.g., the number of sets increased to 3 and later to 4). At baseline and follow-up, we collected remote measurements of physical function (muscle strength and power, functional muscular fitness) and cognition (processing speed, inhibitory control, verbal fluency). Results: Participants in the minimal supervision home-based exercise group significantly improved the Stroop test (-1.6 sec, 95% CI = -3.20; -0.09). No significant between-group differences were observed for physical and cognitive outcomes. Conclusion: A home-based exercise program delivered with virtual or minimal supervision can produce similar effects, and may help to maintain physical and cognitive capabilities among healthy, high-functioning older adults who experienced mobility restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil.

Evaluation of functionality-mobility in patients with skeletal dysplasias. Application of the STEMS tool ("everyday symptoms and mobility screening tool for skeletal dysplasias").

Individuals with differing forms of skeletal dysplasias (SD) frequently report impaired mobility and symptoms. With the objetive to evaluate mobility and associated symptoms in people with SD at an Argentinian pediatric hospital, using an Argentinian version of the Screening Tool for Everyday Mobility and Symptoms (STEMS), a simple questionnaire that allows clinicians to quickly identify the presence of symptoms associated with mobility in people with SD, while considering different environmental settings and the use of assistive devices, an analytical study of a consecutive sample of patients older than 5 years with SD and their affected relatives was carried out.Diagnosis, comorbidities, socioenvironmental, therapeutic, auxological and mobility variables were recorded. The presence and intensity of symptoms was noted through use of both the STEMS and validated scales. Descriptive, association and correlation analyzes were performed. One hundred and nineteen individuals with SD were enrolled in the study and divided into groups: Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI, n = 55), Achondroplasia (ACH, n = 36) and Other SD resulting in disproportionate short stature (n = 28). Mobility assistive devices were almost exclusively used by individuals with OI. They were more frequently used by individuals with overweight and obesity, more severe form of the disease and in the outdoor settings. Two thirds (66.4%) of the individuals assessed in this study reported pain, 87.4% reported fatigue, and 58.8% reported both pain and fatigue. The intensity of symptoms was similar between groups and correlated with age and auxological variables. The STEMS was clear, easy and quick to use for identifying presence of pain and fatigue in this population group. The STEMS proved to be a simple and useful tool for evaluating functional mobility and associated symptoms in our population of individuals with SD.

Decreased functional mobility in individuals with mild to moderate expanded disability status from relapsing multiple sclerosis: Analysis of the Glittre-ADL test.

INTRODUCTION: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory and autoimmune disease that significantly limits an individual's activities of daily living (ADLs) and negatively affects their social participation as it progresses. The impact of activities and participation must be continuously assessed, and the Glittre-ADL is a validated test for MS to assess functional capacity in tasks similar to ADLs. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether the Glittre-ADL test is a valid method for assessing functional mobility in individuals with MS and moderate disability or those who use assistive devices. METHODS: This cross-sectional study enrolled 30 individuals in two groups: 1) MS group (n = 15); and 2) healthy control group (n = 15). The MS group underwent three functional mobility tests: 1) Glittre-ADL; 2) Timed 25-Foot Walk (T25FWT); and 3) Timed Up and Go (TUG) while the healthy group underwent only the Glittre-ADL test. RESULTS: An association was found between the Glittre-ADL time and T25FWT (r = 0.78, p < .001) and TUG (r = 0.56, p = .030) times. In the MS group, statistically significant differences were found in time (F = 2.88, p = .038) and speed (F = 5.17, p = .024) between laps. A statistically significant difference was observed between the total time in the MS and control groups (Area Under Curve - AUC: 0.982, p < .0001). A total time > 46.0s represents the reduction of functional performance during ADLs in individuals with MS (sensitivity: 93.3%; specificity: 92.2%). CONCLUSION: The Glittre-ADL test is a valid tool for assessing functional mobility in individuals with MS and mild to moderate disability (EDSS score ≤ 6.5).

The decline in postural balance has a negative impact on the performance of functional tasks in individuals with Parkinson's Disease

Abstract Introduction An accurate assessment of balance problems is critical for decreasing the risk of falling in patients with Parkinson's Disease (PD). Reliable diagnostic tools such as Computerized Dynamic Posturography (CDP) are not feasible for the clinical setting. Therefore, the present study's aim was to assess the correlation between the clinical Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest) and CDP. Methods 20 male older adults with Parkinson's Disease (PD) were included in this study. Participants first executed the Sit-To-Stand (STS), Step/Quick turn (SQT), and Step Up and Over (SUO) tests on a Balance Master® force platform, followed by a clinical balance evaluation using the BESTest. Results Four outcomes of the CDP were negatively correlated with one or more BESTest domains or total BESTest score: STS sway velocity was negatively correlated with the anticipatory postural adjustment (p = 0.02) and sensory orientation (p = 0.01) domains. SQT turn time was negatively correlated with biomechanical restriction (for turns to the left, p = 0.01, and right, p = 0.03, respectively), postural response (p = 0.01, p = 0.01), dynamic balance during gait (p = 0.007, p = 0.001), and total score (p = 0.02, p = 0.01). Step over time to the right in SUP was negatively correlated with the limits of the stability domain (p = 0.002) and total BESTest score (p = 0.020). SUO impact index was negatively correlated with the anticipatory postural adjustment domain (p = 0.01). Conclusion This study shows that several BESTest domains are significantly correlated with CDP outcomes, demonstrating that the BESTest can be used as a more clinically feasible alternative for computerized posturography, without loss of information.

Postural balance and functional mobility in relation to BMI and body composition among female students at a College of Applied Medical Sciences: A cross-sectional study

Abstract Introduction This study aimed to compare different Body Mass Index (BMI) categories, body composition parameters, postural balance, and functional mobility among female students at a College of Applied Medical Sciences; and examine the relationship between BMI and body composition with postural balance and functional mobility among female students at the college of applied medical sciences. Materials and methods Female students, aged 18‒25 years old. They were subdivided into four groups according to their BMI category: underweight, normal, overweight, or obese, with n = 20 participants in each group. A Bioelectrical Impedance Human Body Analyzer (BIA) was used to assess the following body composition parameters: Fat Percentage (FATP), fat mass, muscle mass, and Total Body Water (TBW). A NeuroCom Balance Master was used to assess postural balance and functional mobility. A Timed Up and Go (TUG) test was employed to assess functional mobility. All data were analyzed using SPSS. Results Participants' ages and heights were matched (p > 0.05). However, there were variables that were statistically significantly higher in terms of weight, BMI and body composition, including FATP, fat mass, muscle mass, and TBW (p = 0.000), among the obese group. Moreover, postural balance was lower among the obese group. There was a significant relationship between BMI and body composition variables in respect of postural balance but not in relation to functional mobility. Conclusion Postural instability but not functional mobility was related to higher BMI and body composition values among the study groups.

Comparison of the Effects of an Exergame-Based Program with Conventional Physiotherapy Protocol Based on Core Areas of the European Guideline on Postural Control, Functional Mobility, and Quality of Life in Patients with Parkinson's Disease: Randomized Clinical Trial.

Introduction: Impairment of postural control and functional mobility are debilitating symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD). In addition to limiting performance in activities of daily living, it is associated with a higher prevalence of falls in this population. Particularly, dysfunction in postural control does not respond to dopaminergic replacement therapy, but physiotherapy can improve this outcome in patients with PD. Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of training based on Kinect Adventures games compared with a conventional physiotherapy protocol based on the core areas of the European physiotherapy guideline in patients with PD on postural control, functional mobility, self-perception of confidence in the balance, quality of life (QoL), lower limb muscle strength, transfer skill and motor function, as well as to observe adherence and safety interventions. Methods: Thirty-eight patients diagnosed with idiopathic PD were randomized into two groups, and performed 14 training sessions, twice a week for 60 minutes. The primary outcome assessed postural control using the Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test (Mini-BESTest). The following were evaluated as secondary outcomes: limit of stability; balance functional reserve and center of pressure area by computerized posturography; functional mobility by the Timed Up and Go test; self-confidence in balance through the Activities-specific Balance Confidence scale; QoL through the Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire; lower limb muscle strength by the Five Times Sit-To-Stand test; and motor function by the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale. Results: Patients completed training sessions with high rates of safety and adherence. After training, there was a significant improvement in postural control, motor function, and QoL. Conclusion: Both interventions proved to be safe, applicable, and effective to improve postural control, QoL, and motor function in patients with PD. However, there was no difference between the effects of Kinect Adventures games and conventional physiotherapeutic protocol in patients with PD. Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (RBR-27kqv5).

Escala de movilidad ProMover. Un lenguaje unificado para la evaluación de pacientes hospitalizados / ProMover mobility scale. A unified language for the evaluation of hospitalized patients

Resumen La Clasificación Internacional del Funcionamiento (CIF) define la movilidad como la posibilidad de "moverse cambiando la posición o ubicación del cuerpo o moviéndose de un lugar a otro, trans portando, moviendo o manipulando objetos, caminando, corriendo o trepando, y utilizando diversas formas de transporte". La fisioterapia se centra en la evaluación y el tratamiento de los problemas de movimiento. La deter minación del estado de movilidad es un componente central de la evaluación de la salud de los adultos mayores, ya que es un marcador importante de las capacidades físicas y la independencia, y un predictor de morbilidad y mortalidad. Sin embargo, a la fecha no disponemos de escalas que representen el grado de movilidad del paciente con algún tipo de imagen visual que facilite su documentación de forma rápida y fiable por parte de cualquier profesional sanitario que trabaje en el ámbito de la hospitalización. Por estas razones, desarrollamos una escala de movilidad intuitiva basada en iconos que es fácil de administrar en pacientes hospitalizados en diferentes entornos. La escala de movilidad ProMover proporciona a los profesionales de la salud una herramienta unificada para evaluar la movilidad de los pacientes hospitalizados, con el fin de unificar un lenguaje común. Se trata de una herramienta sencilla, práctica, fiable y objetiva y de uso común por todos los profesionales sanitarios.

Abstract. The International Classification of Functionality (CIF) defines mobility as the possibility of "moving by changing the position or location of the body or moving from one place to another, transporting, moving or manipulating objects, walking, running or climbing, and using various forms of transport ". Physical therapy focuses on the assessment and management of movement problems. Determining mobility status is a central component of the health assessment of older adults since it is an important marker of physical abilities and independence, and a predictor of morbidity and mortality. However, to date we did not have scales that represent the degree of mobility of the patient with some type of visual image that facilitates its documentation quickly and reliably by any health professional who works in the field of hospitalization. For these reasons, we developed an intuitive, icon-based mobility scale that is easy to administer in hospitalized patients in different settings. The ProMover mobility scale provides health professionals with a unified tool for evaluating the mobility of hospitalized patients, in order to unify a common language. This is a simple, practical, reliable and objective tool and commonly used by all health professionals.

[ProMover mobility scale. A unified language for the evaluation of hospitalized patients]. / Escala de movilidad ProMover. Un lenguaje unificado para la evaluación de pacientes hospitalizados.

The International Classification of Functionality (CIF) defines mobility as the possibility of "moving by changing the position or location of the body or moving from one place to another, transporting, moving or manipulating objects, walking, running or climbing, and using various forms of transport". Physical therapy focuses on the assessment and management of movement problems. Determining mobility status is a central component of the health assessment of older adults since it is an important marker of physical abilities and independence, and a predictor of morbidity and mortality. However, to date we did not have scales that represent the degree of mobility of the patient with some type of visual image that facilitates its documentation quickly and reliably by any health professional who works in the field of hospitalization. For these reasons, we developed an intuitive, icon-based mobility scale that is easy to administer in hospitalized patients in different settings. The ProMover mobility scale provides health professionals with a unified tool for evaluating the mobility of hospitalized patients, in order to unify a common language. This is a simple, practical, reliable and objective tool and commonly used by all health professionals.

La Clasificación Internacional del Funcionamiento (CIF) define la movilidad como la posibilidad de "moverse cambiando la posición o ubicación del cuerpo o moviéndose de un lugar a otro, transportando, moviendo o manipulando objetos, caminando, corriendo o trepando, y utilizando diversas formas de transporte". La fisioterapia se centra en la evaluación y el tratamiento de los problemas de movimiento. La determinación del estado de movilidad es un componente central de la evaluación de la salud de los adultos mayores, ya que es un marcador importante de las capacidades físicas y la independencia, y un predictor de morbilidad y mortalidad. Sin embargo, a la fecha no disponemos de escalas que representen el grado de movilidad del paciente con algún tipo de imagen visual que facilite su documentación de forma rápida y fiable por parte de cualquier profesional sanitario que trabaje en el ámbito de la hospitalización. Por estas razones, desarrollamos una escala de movilidad intuitiva basada en iconos que es fácil de administrar en pacientes hospitalizados en diferentes entornos. La escala de movilidad ProMover proporciona a los profesionales de la salud una herramienta unificada para evaluar la movilidad de los pacientes hospitalizados, con el fin de unificar un lenguaje común. Se trata de una herramienta sencilla, práctica, fiable y objetiva y de uso común por todos los profesionales sanitarios.

Correlation between changes in Timed Up and Go performance and cognition in older people with mild cognitive impairment: A longitudinal study.

BACKGROUND: Compare changes in performance on subtasks of the Timed Up and Go test over 32 months in older adults with and without mild cognitive impairment; analyze the correlation between frontal cognitive functions at baseline and changes in Timed Up and Go subtasks over time. METHODS: A longitudinal study was conducted involving 31 older adults (15 with and 16 without cognitive impairment). Functional mobility was assessed at both evaluations using an adapted version of the Timed Up and Go test and the Qualisys motion system. The test was divided into five subtasks: sit-to-stand, walking forward, turn-to-walk, walking back and turn-to-sit. Cognition was assessed at baseline using the Frontal Assessment Battery and the Clock Drawing Test. FINDINGS: Significant differences in changes in the sit-to-stand subtask over time were found between groups. The difference in the time required to conclude this subtask was greater in the older adults with cognitive impairment. However, the difference in kinematic variables (peak trunk speed and range of motion) was greater in the group without cognitive impairment. Strong and moderate correlations were found between frontal cognitive functions and changes in Timed Up and Go subtasks, especially those involving transitions (sit-to-stand, turn-to-walk and turn-to-sit) in both groups. INTERPRETATION: Motor intervention protocols should incorporate the sit-to-stand subtask in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. Moreover, changes in more complex subtasks seem to be related to frontal cognitive performance at baseline. Therefore, treatments that combine motor and cognitive functions should be administered to older adults regardless of cognitive impairment.

Effect of aquatic exercise on mental health, functional autonomy, and oxidative damages in diabetes elderly individuals.

This study investigated the effect of aquatic exercise on mental health, functional autonomy, and oxidative dysfunction in elderly with DM2. A total of 104 elderly were included in the longitudinal clinical study and were attributed to the diabetes group (n = 30) and the non-diabetic group (n = 29). Both groups were involved in the aquatic exercise (nine exercises; 3 sets x 1-minute duration each; linear intensity and frequency measured twice a week) for 12 weeks. The assessments of mental health, functional autonomy, and oxidative dysfunction were done. All results were evaluated at baseline and 12 weeks later. The values of the following variable scores decreased in the DM2 group after participation in the aquatic exercise: depression (-56 ± 2 scores; 57%), anxiety (-8.2 ± 2 scores; 41%), stress (-3.1 ± 0.3 scores; 32%), and sleep (-3. 7 ± 1.3 points; 51%); an improvement in Berg scores was observed (+53.1 ± 2 points; 8%), Tug tests (-6.1 ± 0.7 points; 25%), carbonyl groups (-0.048 ± 0.01 nnmol/mg/protein; 49%), and total thiol (+0.33 ± 0.08 nnmol/mg/protein; 83%). We have concluded that a linear intensity aquatic exercise program improves mental health, functional autonomy, and oxidative dysfunction in elderly with DM2.

The cross-cultural adaptation, construct validity, and intra-rater reliability of the functional mobility scale in Brazilian Portuguese for children and adolescents with spina bifida.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to perform a cross-cultural adaptation of the Functional Mobility Scale (FMS) to Brazilian Portuguese and analyse its construct validity and intra-rater reliability in a sample of caregivers of children and adolescents with spina bifida (SB). MATERIAL AND METHODS: The cross-cultural adaptation followed five stages: two forward translations, synthesis, back-translation, committee review and pre-testing (n = 20). Construct validity was assessed by comparing the FMS with the classifications of Hoffer and Schoenmakers (n = 40). Intra-rater reliability was assessed by comparing the ratings of 14 caregivers, on two occasions. Kendall's tau correlation coefficient was used to test the construct validity of the FMS, while the kappa coefficient was used to test intra-rater reliability. RESULTS: Caregivers reported no difficulties with completing the FMS in Brazilian Portuguese. Construct validity tests showed positive correlations between the distances of 5 m (house), 50 m (school) and 500 m (community) in the FMS and the classifications of Hoffer (τ = 0.84; τ = 0.90; τ = 0.68; p < 0.01) and Schoenmakers (τ = 0.83; τ = 0.89; τ = 0.76; p < 0.01), respectively. Excellent intra-rater reliability (kappa = 0.9-1.0) was found for all three distances in the FMS. CONCLUSIONS: The FMS in Brazilian Portuguese showed acceptable intra-rater reliability and construct validity when used to measure the mobility level of patients with SB. We recommend its use in clinical practice and research.Implications for RehabilitationA valid and reliable instrument for assessing the mobility of patients with SB;A cross-cultural and adapted FMS in Brazilian Portuguese;An instrument for therapeutic and functional approaches outside the clinicalsetting;The FMS in the Brazilian Portuguese online version shows mistranslations.

Virtual functional mobility test: A potential novel tool for assessing mobility of individuals with Parkinson's disease in a multitask condition.

There are few instruments available for evaluating functional mobility during multitasking in people with Parkinson's Disease (PD). Virtual Reality is a potentially tool capable of aiding in the evaluation of functional mobility. The purpose of this study is to verify the potential of the Virtual Functional Mobility Test (VFMT) as a clinical tool to assess functional mobility of people with PD during multitasking condition. 25 people with PD and 25 people without PD, matched for age and sex, were recruited. Participants were evaluated through the Trail Making Test, Timed "UP and GO" test, Timed "UP and GO" test in dual task condition and through the VFMT, composed of 1) a simple task, and 2) a complex task. The VFMT and clinical tests were sensitive to differentiate the groups, except the trail making test part B (p = 0.332) and complex task (p = 0.052). Strong correlations were observed between parts A and B of the trail making test (r = 0.75) and complex task (r = 0.72); Moderate correlations between Timed Up and Go test and Timed Up and Go test in dual task condition with simple task (r = 0.47) and complex task (r = 0.55), respectively, were found. The complex task and simple task showed excellent and moderate reliability intra-rater, respectively. It was concluded that the novel VFMT is feasible, sensible, reliable and has potential as an instrument for the evaluation of functional mobility during multitasking in people with PD.

Nonimmersive Virtual Reality as Complementary Rehabilitation on Functional Mobility and Gait in Cerebral Palsy: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effects of nonimmersive virtual reality (VR) as complementary rehabilitation on functional mobility and gait in children with mild unilateral cerebral palsy (CP). Methods: Prospective, randomized, controlled, clinical trial. Twenty-two children with unilateral CP were randomized into two groups: intervention group (IG) (n = 11) and control group (n = 11). After baseline assessments, the participants either started the VR intervention (IG) associated with conventional therapy, or continued conventional physical therapy (control group). Participants in the IG attended 45-minute training sessions twice a week for 8 weeks (total: 16 sessions and 12 hours of training). Participants in the control group underwent standard therapy for 50 minutes, twice a week. Timed Up and Go test (TUG), gait spatiotemporal variables, and pelvic angles were measured at baseline and after treatment sessions. Results: When compared with the control group, the IG performed the following activities in decreased time: TUG, and stride time. Also, the IG increased the velocity of walking and the pelvis retroversion, and decreased the pelvis interval/external rotations and amplitude of pelvis rotation while walking. Conclusions: A rehabilitative approach based on a nonimmersive VR as complementary rehabilitation may improve functional mobility and change joint mobility functions during gait of children with mild unilateral CP. The results of the study demonstrate that the insertion of a therapy based on VR may help in better strategies in the gait of children with CP. Thus, rehabilitation professionals can use this tool combined with conventional therapy.

Fragilidade física e mobilidade funcional em idosos da atenção primária à saúde / Physical frailty and functional mobility in elderly people in primary health care

Resumo: Trata-se de estudo quantitativo de corte transversal, cujo objetivo foi analisar a associação da condição e dos marcadores de fragilidade física à mobilidade funcional de idosos. Participaram-se 389 idosos (?60 anos) assistidos em uma Unidade Básica de Saúde em Curitiba, Paraná. Para a coleta de dados, aplicaram-se questionários sociodemográfico e clínico, testes do fenótipo de fragilidade física e o timed up and go para avaliar a mobilidade funcional. Analisaram-se os dados mediante estatística descritiva, associação (Teste de Qui-quadrado com nível de significância estatístico considerado de p<=0,05 (a=0,05) e de correlação (Teste de Pearson). As chances de associação entre os marcadores de fragilidade e a mobilidade funcional diminuída foram analisados pela Odss Ratio, com intervalo de confiança de 95%. O modelo de regressão final foi elaborado pelo critério da acurácia, sensibilidade, especificidade, coeficientes de correlação linear e ajustado. O estudo foi aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética do Setor de Ciências da Saúde da Universidade Federal do Paraná, sob o parecer n°2918847. Dos 389 idosos, 34 (8,7%) eram frágeis, 186 (47,8%) pré-frágeis, 169 (43,5%) não frágeis, e 330 (84,8%) apresentaram mobilidade funcional diminuída. Os marcadores de fragilidade mais expressivos foram o baixo nível de atividade física (n=82; 21,0%), redução da força de preensão manual (n=82; 21,0%), redução da velocidade da marcha (n=81; 20,8%). Houve associação significativa entre a mobilidade funcional preservada e a condição de não frágeis (p=0,001). Correlacionaram-se à mobilidade funcional diminuída, a fragilidade (r=2,08; p=0,037), pré-fragilidade (r=2,04; p=0,041) e os marcadores redução da força de preensão manual (p=0,026), baixo nível de atividade física (p=0,026) e redução da velocidade da marcha (p<0,001). A razão de chance de idosos frágeis apresentarem mobilidade funcional diminuída é significativamente elevada (RC 9,25) quando comparada aos não frágeis. No modelo preditivo final permaneceram os marcadores redução da força de preensão manual, baixo nível de atividade física e redução da velocidade da marcha. O idoso com redução da força de preensão manual tem 1,96 vezes mais chance de desenvolver MF diminuída, quando comparado aquele FPM preservada (OR 1,968, IC95%, 0,798-4,854, p=0,141), e o idoso com baixo nível de atividade física tem 2,10 vezes mais chances de desenvolver declínio da mobilidade funcional, em relação ao fisicamente ativo (OR 2,101, IC95%, 0,855-5,163, p=0,105). O idosos com redução da velocidade da marcha possui 7,21 vezes mais chances de apresentar diminuição na MF, ao comparar com a condição de não frágil para esse componente (OR 7,213, IC95%, 1,703-30,537, p=0,007). Conclui-se que, os idosos frágeis e com o marcador redução da velocidade da marcha possuem chances elevadas de desenvolverem mobilidade funcional diminuída. Apesar da correlação entre mobilidade funcional e redução da força de preensão manual e baixo nível de atividade física, esses marcadores não se mostraram preditivos para mobilidade funcional diminuída. O presente estudo destaca resultados expressivos para a prática clínica de enfermagem gerontológica, os quais são essenciais para subsidiar estratégias preventivas para a mobilidade funcional do idoso e proporcionar uma visão mais ampla e clara na gestão dos cuidados, sobretudo para a fragilidade marcada pelo componente velocidade da marcha.

Abstract: This is a quantitative cross-sectional study, with the aim of analyzing the association between the condition and the markers of physical frailty and functional mobility in the elderly. Three-hundred and eighty-nine elderly people aged (?60 years) assisted at a Basic Health Unit in Curitiba, Paraná, participated. For data collection, sociodemographic and clinical questionnaires, physical frailty phenotype and timed up and Go tests were used to evaluate functional mobility. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, association (Chi-square test) with a level of statistical significance considered of p<=0.05 (a=0.05) and correlation (Pearson test). The chances of an association between frailty markers and decreased functional mobility were analyzed by the Odss Ratio, with a 95% confidence interval. The final regression model was elaborated by the criterion of accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, linear and adjusted correlation coefficients. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Health Sciences Sector of the Universidade Federal do Paraná, under Opinion Report No. 2918847. Of the 389 elderly, 34 (8.7%) were frail, 186 (47.8%) pre-frail, 169 (43.5%) non-frail, and 330 (84.8%) had reduced functional mobility. The most expressive markers of frailty were low level of physical activity (n=82; 21.0%), reduced handgrip strength (n=82; 21.0%), reduced gait speed (n=81; 20.8). Frailty (r=2.08; p=0.037), pre-frailty (r=2.04; p=0.041) and, markers of handgrip strength (p=0.026), level of physical activity (p=0.026) and gait speed (p<0.001) associated to the decreased functional mobility. There was a significant association between preserved functional mobility and the condition of not being frail (p=0.001). The odds ratio for frail elderly people with reduced functional mobility is significantly high (OR 9.25) when compared to non-frail people. In the final predictive model, the markers remained: reduced handgrip strength, low level of physical activity and reduced gait speed. The elderly with reduced handgrip strength is 1.96 times more likely to develop decreased MF when compared to that preserved HGS (OR 1.968, 95%CI, 0.798-4.854, p=0.141), and the elderly with low activity level physical activity is 2.10 times more likely to develop a decline in functional mobility, compared to physically active (OR 2.101, 95%CI, 0.855- 5.163, p=0.105). The elderly with reduced gait speed are 7.21 times more likely to have a decrease in MF, when compared to the condition of non-frail for this component (OR 7.213, 95%CI, 1.703-30.537, p=0.007). It is concluded that the frail elderly and with the marker reduced gait speed have a high chance of developing reduced functional mobility. Despite the correlation between functional mobility and reduced handgrip strength and low level of physical activity, these markers were not predictive for decreased functional mobility. The present study highlights expressive results for the clinical practice of gerontological nursing, which are essential to support preventive strategies for the functional mobility of the elderly and provide a broader and clearer view in the management of care, especially for the frailty marked by the gait speed component.

Therapeutic effectiveness of a single exercise session combined with WalkAide functional electrical stimulation in post-stroke patients: a crossover design study.

A growing body of evidence has suggested that the imbalance of epigenetic markers and oxidative stress appears to be involved in the pathophysiology and progression of stroke. Thus, strategies that modulate these biomarkers might be considered targets for neuroprotection and novel therapeutic opportunities for these patients. Physical exercise has been reported to induce changes in these epigenetic markers and improve clinical outcomes in different populations. However, little is reported on this in post-stroke patients. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of a single exercise session with WalkAide functional electrical stimulation (FES) on cognitive performance, clinical functional parameters, oxidative stress and epigenetic modulation in post-stroke individuals. In this crossover design study, 12 post-stroke individuals aged 54-72 years of either sexes were included and subjected to a single session of exercise (45 minutes) without WalkAide functional electrical stimulation (EXE alone group), followed by another single session of exercise (45 minutes) with WalkAide functional electrical stimulation (EXE + FES group). The clinical functional outcome measures, cognitive performance and blood collections for biomarker measurements were assessed pre- and post-intervention. After intervention, higher Berg Balance Scale scores were obtained in the EXE + FES group than in the EXE alone group. There was no significant difference in the Timed Up and Go test results post-intervention between EXE alone and EXE + FES groups. After intervention, a better cognitive performance was found in both groups compared with before the intervention. After intervention, the Timed Up and Go test scores were higher in the EXE + FES group than in the EXE alone group. In addition, the intervention induced lower levels of lipid peroxidation. After intervention, carbonyl level was lower, superoxide dismutase activity and superoxide dismutase/catalase activity ratio were higher in the EXE + FES group, compared with the EXE group alone. In each group, both histone deacetylase (HDAC2) and histone acetyltransferase activities were increased after intervention compared with before the intervention. These findings suggest that a single exercise session with WalkAide FES is more effective on balance ability and cognitive performance compared with conventional exercise alone in post-stroke patients. This is likely to be related to the regulation of oxidative stress markers. The present study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Methodist University Center-IPA (approval No. 2.423.376) on December 7, 2017 and registered in the Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials-ReBEC (RBR-9phj2q) on February 11, 2019.

SPARC Metrics Provide Mobility Smoothness Assessment in Oldest-Old With and Without a History of Falls: A Case Control Study.

Aging-related neuromuscular and neurocognitive decline induces unsmooth movements in daily functional mobility. Here, we used a robust analysis of linear and angular spectral arc length (SPARC) in the single and dual task instrumented timed up-and-go (iTUG) test to compare functional mobility smoothness in fallers and non-fallers aged 85 and older. 64 participants aged 85 and older took part in this case control study. The case group (fallers, n = 32) had experienced falls to the ground in the 6 months prior to the assessment. SPARC analyses were conducted in all phases of the single and dual task iTUGs. We also performed correlation mapping to test the relation of socio-demographic and clinical features on SPARC metrics. The magnitude of between-group differences was calculated using D-Cohen effect size (ES). SPARC was able to distinguish fallers during the single iTUG (ES ≈ 4.18). Turning while walking in the iTUG induced pronounced unsmooth movements in the fallers (SPARC ≈ -13; ES = 3.52) and was associated with the ability to maintain balance in the functional reach task. This information is of importance in the study of functional mobility in the oldest-old and to assess the efficacy of fall-prevention programs.