Physiotherapy
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Airflow distribution with manual hyperinflation as assessed through gamma camera imaging: a crossover randomised trial.
Manual hyperinflation (MHI) has been shown to improve lung compliance, reduce airway resistance, and enhance secretion removal and peak expiratory flow. The aims of this study were to investigate whether there is a difference in airflow distribution through patients' lungs when using the Laerdal and Mapleson-C circuits at a set level of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP), and to establish whether differences in lung compliance and haemodynamic status exist when patients are treated with both these MHI circuits. ⋯ Airflow distribution through patients' lungs was similar when the Laerdal and Mapleson-C MHI circuits were compared using a set level of PEEP in the supine position.
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To develop a scoring system to measure physical morbidity in critical care - the Chelsea Critical Care Physical Assessment Tool (CPAx). ⋯ This pilot work supports proof of concept of the CPAx as a measure of physical morbidity in the critical care population, and is a cogent argument for further investigation of the scoring system.
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To investigate the influence of gait parameters including step length and walking speed during performance of the 6-minute walking test (6MWT) in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). ⋯ Patients with CHF have a shorter step length and walk more slowly than controls during the 6MWT. Altered gait mechanics may contribute to limited exercise capacity in patients with CHF.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Effectiveness of a low-cost virtual reality system for children with developmental delay: a preliminary randomised single-blind controlled trial.
Physical and occupational therapists have started to use the Nintendo Wii™ gaming system with adults and children as part of their regular treatment. Despite the growing use of the Wii and trend towards evidence-based practice, limited evidence is available on the effectiveness of virtual reality using the Wii for children with developmental delay. The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of a low-cost gaming system for young children with developmental delay. ⋯ This study supports use of the Wii as a feasible, safe and potentially effective therapeutic tool to augment the rehabilitation of young children with developmental delay. The potential application of the Wii to increase the intensity of therapy or as a rehabilitation tool in children's homes and rural settings is an area worthy of investigation. The promising results of this study suggest that further studies are warranted to validate the potential benefits of a low-cost commercially available gaming system as a treatment strategy to supplement rehabilitation of children with disabilities.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
Energy expended playing Xbox Kinect™ and Wii™ games: a preliminary study comparing single and multiplayer modes.
It has been reported that a higher galvanic skin response is seen when playing video games against another human player than when playing alone, which suggests increased effort. The objectives of this study were to compare energy expenditure when playing two popular active video game consoles, and to compare energy expenditure when playing in single and multiplayer modes. ⋯ No gaming condition required moderate-intensity activity in this group of young healthy adults. Potential explanations for the difference in energy expenditure seen between consoles and modes are discussed.