Disability and rehabilitation
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To evaluate the intertester reliability of two methods for measuring lower-limb strength in children with cerebral palsy (CP). ⋯ The intertester reliability of measuring muscle strength of the lower extremities using a hand-held dynamometer is questionable. The intertester reliability of the 30-sec RM for the lower extremity is acceptable.
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To investigate swallowing problems in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) using a questionnaire and videofluorography (VF). ⋯ Because oropharyngeal dysphagia in DMD was evident in teenage patients as well as those without clinical symptoms, VF is recommended in patients with DMD.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Eccentric exercises for the management of tendinopathy of the main body of the Achilles tendon with or without an AirHeel Brace. A randomized controlled trial. B: Effects of compliance.
To evaluate microcirculatory variables in and around the Achilles tendon (AT) in patients undergoing a programme of daily eccentric training for the management of tendinopathy of the main body of the AT in non-compliant in contrast to compliant patients. ⋯ In patients undergoing eccentric training for tendinopathy of the main body of the AT, there is no difference in microcirculatory variables regardless of compliance with the eccentric exercises programme. With the exception of the more frequent use of oral contraceptive medication and less often walking/swimming, no predictive factors could be identified in non-compliant patients.
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Identify psychosocial and socio-demographic factors (measured prior to treatment) that were associated with post-treatment self-perceived pain and disability and two secondary outcomes: psychological distress, and return to work in patients undergoing multidisciplinary rehabilitation for chronic whiplash associated disorders (WAD). ⋯ Baseline pain and disability was the only factor that affected pain and disability post-rehabilitation. Psychosocial factors played a role in the prognosis of psychological distress and return to work.
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Multicenter Study
The Pain Belief Screening Instrument (PBSI): predictive validity for disability status in persistent musculoskeletal pain.
To evaluate the predictive validity of a screening instrument measuring disability, self-efficacy, fear of movement and catastrophizing, for disability status in patients with musculoskeletal pain in primary health care physical therapy. Development over time of pain-related disability, pain intensity, self-reported work capacity and overall daily function for subgroups of patients was also investigated. ⋯ The predictive validity of the PBSI for disability was confirmed. In clinical use the PBSI could serve as a mean to obtain supplementary and clinically useful information.