Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation
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Arch Phys Med Rehabil · Nov 2008
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative StudyTransversus abdominis and obliquus internus activity during pilates exercises: measurement with ultrasound scanning.
To assess activity of transversus abdominis (TrA) and obliquus internus abdominis (OI) muscles during classical Pilates exercises performed correctly and incorrectly, and with or without equipment. ⋯ This study provides the first evidence that a selection of classic Pilates exercises activates TrA and OI. Use of the reformer exercise machine can result in greater TrA activation in some exercises. TrA and OI did not function independently during these exercises. Research into the training effects of Pilates or in patient populations can be undertaken using ultrasonography in submaximal exercises.
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Arch Phys Med Rehabil · Sep 2008
Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter StudyIsolated lumbar extensor strengthening versus regular physical therapy in an army working population with nonacute low back pain: a randomized controlled trial.
To evaluate the effectiveness of specific lumbar extensor training compared with regular physical therapy (PT) in workers with nonspecific nonacute low back pain (LBP). ⋯ Consistent with prior evidence, specific back strengthening does not seem to offer incremental benefits in LBP management compared with regular PT care that mainly consists of general exercise therapy. (ISRCTN identifier ISRCTN19334317.)
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Arch Phys Med Rehabil · Sep 2008
Randomized Controlled TrialBranched-chain amino acids may improve recovery from a vegetative or minimally conscious state in patients with traumatic brain injury: a pilot study.
To investigate whether supplementation with branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) may improve recovery of patients with a posttraumatic vegetative or minimally conscious state. ⋯ Supplemented BCAAs may improve the recovery from a vegetative or minimally conscious state in patients with posttraumatic vegetative or minimally conscious state.
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Arch Phys Med Rehabil · Aug 2008
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative StudyA targeted home- and center-based exercise program for people after total hip replacement: a randomized clinical trial.
To examine the physical function, gait, and quality of life of patients after total hip replacement (THR) randomly assigned to either a targeted home- or center-based exercise program. ⋯ The targeted strengthening program was effective for both the home- and center-based groups. No group differences were found in the majority of the outcome measures. This finding is important because it shows that THR patients can achieve significant improvements through a targeted strengthening program delivered at a center or at home.
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Arch Phys Med Rehabil · Aug 2008
Randomized Controlled TrialIntermittent positive-pressure breathing effects in patients with high spinal cord injury.
To determine whether intermittent positive-pressure breathing (IPPB) improved lung compliance, work of breathing, and respiratory function in patients with recent high spinal cord injury (SCI). ⋯ IPPB produced no immediate or long-term improvements in lung function or ventilatory mechanics in patients with recent SCI. (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00476866.).