Physical Therapy EBP 2016 https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016 Thu, 19 Nov 2020 22:55:47 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 Can Exercise Decrease Depressive Symptoms in Women Diagnosed with Post Partum Depression? https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/2016/11/14/can-exercise-decrease-depressive-symptoms-in-women-diagnosed-with-post-partum-depression/ https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/2016/11/14/can-exercise-decrease-depressive-symptoms-in-women-diagnosed-with-post-partum-depression/#respond Mon, 14 Nov 2016 22:40:36 +0000 https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/?p=771 Gabrielle Abate, SPT

Background:
• Post Partum Depression (PPD) 10-16% with symptoms lasting up to 1 year.
• Often goes undiagnosed or untreated.
• Adverse effects of pharmacological therapy with breast feeding and the stigma associated with taking antidepressants.

Clinical Scenario:
• 30 year-old female with complaints of low back and hip pain since having her first baby 4 months ago.
• She is worried her pain affects her ability to take care her daughter “the way a mother should”.
• She is taking antidepressant medication, but would rather not because she heard it may be harmful while breastfeeding
• She cannot sleep even if her baby sleeps. She cries daily and worries constantly. She does not feel hungry and is not eating regularly. Making decisions is overwhelming. She says she is not herself.
• Experiences urinary incontinence.
• She has not exercised in years.

PICO Question:
In women diagnosed with post partum depression (PPD) is exercise (including yoga and/or Pilates) a more effective treatment than standard care or no intervention for decreasing depressive symptoms?

Search Strategy:
Search Terms: “Exercise” AND “Post partum depression“ AND “Standard care” or “Usual care”.
Inclusion criteria:
• English language
• Dates 2000-2016
• Women diagnosed with PPD
• Exercise (one article including yoga or Pilates intervention)
• Control group consisting of usual care or no treatment
• Outcome measures
• Edinburg Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) score of greater or equal to 10
• Hamilton Depression Scale (HAM-D) score of greater or equal to 10

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Results:

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Evidence Summary:
• Exercise interventions are statistically significant and clinically meaningful for mild to moderate PPD.
• The experimental group may decrease symptoms quicker than the control group.

Clinical Bottom Line:
• Exercise interventions are statistically significant and clinically meaningful for mild to moderate PPD versus trial medicine especially given the adverse events to the infant.
• CEBM Level 2 recommendation that women diagnosed with mild to moderate PPD could benefit from receiving an exercise program to decrease depressive symptoms compared to usual care or no intervention.
• At long term follow up both groups had similar decrease in depressive symptoms.

Limitations:
• Poor generalizability due to lack of diversity in participant demographics and small sample sizes.
• No blinding of participants.
• Participants in the intervention group were not excluded if taking pharmacological therapies

Application to Case:
Evaluate and treat low back and hip pain while providing education on the benefits of exercise in treating PPD. Additionally, patient is provided with a home exercise program to increase endurance, strength, and flexibility. The program should consist of a walking program and strengthening and stretching exercises which could include a yoga video. Patient will attend therapy twice per week for two weeks and once per week for the next two weeks. Patient is referred to a pelvic floor therapist to treat urinary incontinence.

The Future:
• Exercise is an emerging treatment to treat post partum depression.
• What is our role in treating post partum depression in physical therapy?
o Thorough history-taking
o Adequate time spent with patients throughout care
o Administering a depression scale when applicable 
o Tailor treatment plan to our patients’ needs

References:
1. Armstrong and Edwards. The effectiveness of a pram-walking exercise programme in reducing depressive symptomatology for postnatal women. International journal of nursing practice. 2004. 10.4: 177-194.
2. Buttner. Brock. O’Hara, et al. Efficacy of yoga for depressed postpartum women: A randomized controlled trial. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 2015; 21, 94e100.
3. Da Costa, Lowensteyn, Abrahamowicz, et al. A Randomized clinical trial of exercise to alleviate postpartum depressed mood. Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynecology. 2009. 30(3): 191-200.
4. Daley, Blamey, Jolly, et al. A pragmatic randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of a facilitated exercise intervention as a treatment for postnatal depression: the PAM- PeRS trial. Psychological Medicine, 45(11), pp. 2413–2425. doi: 10.1017/S0033291715000409.
5. Shu-Shya Heh, RN, MPhil, Lian-Hua Huang, RN, PhD, Shiao-Ming Ho, EdD, et al. Effectiveness of an Exercise Support Programin Reducing the Severity of Postnatal Depression in Taiwanese Women. BIRTH 35:1 March 2008.

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The Effects of Enhanced Theraputic Alliance on Outcomes for Patients with Musculoskeletal Pain https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/2016/11/02/the-effects-of-enhanced-theraputic-alliance-on-outcomes-for-patients-with-musculoskeletal-pain/ https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/2016/11/02/the-effects-of-enhanced-theraputic-alliance-on-outcomes-for-patients-with-musculoskeletal-pain/#respond Wed, 02 Nov 2016 17:10:21 +0000 https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/?p=747 Background
  • Therapeutic alliance (TA)- collaboration and affiliation between patient and therapist

  • Associated with better outcomes in general medicine and psychotherapeutic practices

  • Is the same pattern present in physical therapy? What specific outcomes are affected?

http://www.folklife.si.edu/talkstory/2014/five-on-the-black-hand-sideorigins-and-evolutions-of-the-dap/

http://www.folklife.si.edu

Case Scenario and PICO

25 year old mother and student referred to PT for chronic low back pain over 6 months.

  • No red flags present, 42% dysfunction on Oswestry, AROM limited by pain

  • Patient fearful she will not improve

The treating PT after evaluation focuses sessions on reassuring patient, including minimal exercise. The facility manager, also a PT, says future sessions should involve more therapeutic exercise to maximize results.

For patients with musculoskeletal pain, does enhanced therapeutic alliance predict improved outcomes compared to limited therapeutic alliance or exercise alone?

Search Strategy

searchInclusion Criteria: Article Type: Systematic review, RCT. Date range: 2011 – Present. Age group: Adult >18, Outcomes: pain, function. Providers: PT, MD,RN.  Intervention: Therapeutic  Alliance, Motivational Enhancement

Results

Significant results in Red. Articles ordered according to study quality. Top = high quality.

Clinical Bottom Line

http://www.shutterstock.com/video/clip-4378085-stock-footage-african-american-woman-doctor-talking-to-camera.html

http://www.shutterstock.com

Mixed quality evidence including high and low quality studies indicates that Enhanced Therapeutic Alliance

  • applies best to chronic low back pain patients

  • causes increased pain tolerance even without therex

  • correlates with better outcomes in function, pain reduction and perceived treatment effect

Limitations

  • Poor design of lower quality RCT’s

  • Multiple and under studied outcome measures

  • Lack of power analysis

  • Lack of replication

  • Use of VAS

  • Use of high tech sham treatment

Application

http://www.blackenterprise.com/

http://www.blackenterprise.com/

Specifically target therapeutic alliance in Chronic LBP populations using a Motivational Enhancement approach including:

  • Collaborative goal setting

  • Affirming symptoms

  • Adjusting exercises if patient is resistant

  • Seeing patient one-on-one until alliance is built & therapeutic exercise program well tolerated

  • Using an Alliance Survey, such as the  Working Alliance Theory of Change Inventory

References 

  1. Fuentes, J., Armijo-Olivo, S., Funabashi, M., Miciak, M., Dick, B., Warren, S., Rashiq, S., Magee, D.J. and Gross, D.P., 2014. Enhanced therapeutic alliance modulates pain intensity and muscle pain sensitivity in patients with chronic low back pain: an experimental controlled study. Physical therapy,94(4), pp.477-489.
  2. Hall, A.M., Ferreira, P.H., Maher, C.G., Latimer, J. and Ferreira, M.L., 2010. The influence of the therapist-patient relationship on treatment outcome in physical rehabilitation: a systematic review. Physical therapy.
  3. Ferreira, P.H., Ferreira, M.L., Maher, C.G., Refshauge, K.M., Latimer, J. and Adams, R.D., 2013. The therapeutic alliance between clinicians and patients predicts outcome in chronic low back pain. Physical therapy, 93(4), pp.470-478.
  4. Vong, S.K., Cheing, G.L., Chan, F., So, E.M. and Chan, C.C., 2011. Motivational enhancement therapy in addition to physical therapy improves motivational factors and treatment outcomes in people with low back pain: a randomized controlled trial. Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation,92(2), pp.176-183.
  5. Tse, M.M., Vong, S.K. and Tang, S.K., 2013. Motivational interviewing and exercise programme for community‐dwelling older persons with chronic pain: a randomised controlled study. Journal of clinical nursing, 22(13-14), pp.1843-1856.

 

 

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Is LSVT BIG Therapy more effective than traditional therapy at reducing the risk of falls in patients with Parkinson’s Disease? https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/2016/11/01/is-lsvt-big-therapy-more-effective-than-traditional-therapy-at-reducing-the-risk-of-falls-in-patients-with-parkinsons-disease/ https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/2016/11/01/is-lsvt-big-therapy-more-effective-than-traditional-therapy-at-reducing-the-risk-of-falls-in-patients-with-parkinsons-disease/#comments Tue, 01 Nov 2016 13:58:48 +0000 https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/?p=327 Introduction:

  • Physical Manifestations such as hypokinetic movements can lead to an increased risk of falls in the Parkinson’s Population. BIG Therapy was created to address this specific limitation.
  • LSVT BIG Therapy
    • Training Protocol
      • High amplitude movements performed at high intensity (≥ 8 on RPE)
      • Minimum 4x/wk for 4 weeks with strict HEP
      • Certification needed

Clinical Case & PICO Question:

  • Eileen is a 65 y/o female with a PMH of Idiopathic Parkinson’s Disease dx 11yrs, pt rated 3 on Hoehn and Yahr Scale, R humeral Fx 2 months ago secondary to fall. Meds include Siminet 4x/d & ASA as necessary.
  • Impairments on eval: Frequent faller (6 times in the last year), Diminished stride length, Freezing gait when turning
  • PICO: Can targeting the hypokinetic movements through BIG Therapy reduce the risk of falls in individuals with PD as opposed to traditional therapy techniques?

Search Strategy:

  • 3 Databases: PubMed, CINAHL, PEDro
    • Search Terms: BIG therapy AND Parkinson’s Disease AND Parkinson’s Disease AND Physical Therapy AND Falls
    • Inclusion Criteria: English, Full text, Humans, Adults >18, Idiopathic PD <5 on H&Y scale, minimum dosage of 1 therapy session per week for a minimum of 4 weeks, Used TUG as a primary or secondary outcome measure.

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Results: Studies in Red involve BIG Therapy, Studies in white are traditional therapy.

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Limitations:

Small sample sizes, lacking of blinding of patients and therapists, unable to generalize results to entirety of Parkinson’s population, ceiling effect of outcome measure chosen

Clinical Bottom Line:

Level 2 and 4 evidence exists that suggests LSVT BIG Therapy can help improve motor functions that assist in the decrease of falls risk in PD populations. Level 2 evidence also exists that demonstrates a direct decrease in falls for those participating in traditional therapy that focuses on resistance and/or balance training in individual or group settings. At this time, more research is required to determine whether LSVT BIG Therapy has a direct correlation to reduction in falls risks. Another important area to focus is whether the intensity of an exercise program can effect a patient’s fall risk.

Application:

Based on the evidence provided the best treatment method for Eileen at this time would be to participate in traditional strength and balance training with principles of BIG therapy included throughout.

BIG Therapy limitations: Cost, Time, UE involvement

Recommended Program:
Sessions 2-3x/wk for ~1hr: Primary treatment of UE ROM
Repeated functional movements: Sit-to-stand, lunging (all directions), bed mobility. Progress: supported to unsupported
Balance training: Reactive, Anticipatory, Sensory Integration
Progressive bodyweight activities including: Squats, H/T raises, BIG walking
Key Factor: All activities performed at RPE ≥ 7 – resting when needed

References:

1. Ebersbach G, Ebersbach A, Edler D, et al. Comparing exercise in Parkinson’s Disease – the berlin LSVT BIG study. Movement Disorders. 2010;25(12):1902-1908.

2. Goodwin V, Richards S, Henley W, Exings P, Taylor A, Campbell J. An exercise intervention to prevent falls in people with parkinson’s disease: A pragmatic randomized controlled trial. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2011;82:1232-1238.

3. Ebersbach G, Ebersbach A, Grust U, Wegner B, Gandor F, Kuhn A. Amplitude-oriented exercise in parkinson’s disease: A randomized study comparing LSVT-BIG and a short training protocol. J Neural Transm. 2015;122:253-256.

4. Janssens J, Malfroid K, Nyffeler T, Bohlhalter S, Vanbellingen T. Application of LSVT BIG intervention to address gait, balance, bed mobility, and dexterity in people with parkinson disease: A case series.Phys Ther. 2014;94(7):1014-1023. doi: 10.2522/ptj.20130232 [doi]

5. Morris M, Menz H, McGinley J, et al. A randomized controlled trial to reduce falls in people with parkinson’s disease. Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair. 2015;29(8):777-785

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Effects of Strength Training on Walking Ability in Pediatric Populations with Spastic Cerebral Palsy https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/2016/10/31/effects-of-strength-training-on-walking-ability-in-pediatric-populations-with-spastic-cerebral-palsy/ https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/2016/10/31/effects-of-strength-training-on-walking-ability-in-pediatric-populations-with-spastic-cerebral-palsy/#respond Mon, 31 Oct 2016 18:34:41 +0000 https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/?p=720 Patient profile

  • 14 year old male
  • Spastic diplegic Cerebral Palsy
  • GMFCS Level II
  • History of tendon lengthening
  • Forearm crutches for community distances
  • Has not been attending PT regularly
  • Cognitively intact and motivated

Patient goals

  • Participate in physical education class
  • Play basketball without requiring rest breaks

Example of GMFCS Levels:

PICO

What are the effects of functional strength training versus typical physical therapy on walking ability in a pediatric population (<22 years of age) with spastic cerebral palsy?

Search Strategy 

100 articles identified

in: PubMed, CINAHL, OVID- Medline

16 duplicates removed

84 records screened

74 not relevant

10 full text screened

4 full text excluded

6 included

Inclusion Criteria

  • Pediatric Population (<22 years old) with a diagnosis of spastic cerebral palsy who are also ambulatory
  • Interventions that include strength or resistance training of lower extremities
  • Assessment of at least one of the following: 6 minute walk test, TUG, 20 meter walk test, GMFM D/E

Exclusion Criteria

  • Patient’s who had undergone botox injections within the past 3 months
  • Surgery in the past 6 months
  • Non-ambulatory patients
  • Adult population
  • Upper extremity training
  • Inability to follow direction or cognitive/behavioral diagnosis

Results 

 

 

Limitations

  • Small sample sizes, underpowered
  • Cross-contamination of intervention
  • Undefined control interventions; “typical PT”
  • Lack of randomized controlled trials
  • Lack of blinding
  • Recruitment of convenience

Clinical Bottom Line

There is conflicting and limited, low quality, evidence that suggests that strength training does not improve walking ability in pediatric populations with spastic cerebral palsy with diagnoses that fall into GMFCS Levels I, II, & III.

  • 2 studies were randomized controlled trials, both looking specifically at strength training, and lacking defined controls. Neither of these studies found significant improvement in any measures of walking ability, such as the TUG or GMFM D/E.
  • 3 studies, all lower level evidence; case studies or quasi-experimental studies, found evidence that strength training improved measures of walking ability, but did not have control groups and included other intervention strategies within their therapeutic sessions, such as dynamic balance or gait training.
  • The final study found that strength training and treadmill training both led to clinically detectable improved walking ability.

Application to Case

Strength training should be included in a standard physical therapy plan of care if it aligns with patient-specific goals or to specifically increase strength. Interventions that focus on gait training and walking endurance may be more beneficialwhen implemented as primary interventions to improve walking ability

Strength training does not appear to cause any negative effects to patients with spastic CP, although range of motion and spasticity should be monitored if strength training regimens are implemented.

References

Auld ML, Johnston LM. “Strong and steady”: a community-based strength and balance exercise group for children with cerebral palsy. Disabil Rehabil. 2014;36(24):2065-71.

Aviram R, Harries N, Namourah I, Amro A, Bar-haim S. Effects of a group circuit progressive resistance training program compared with a treadmill training program for adolescents with cerebral palsy. Dev Neurorehabil. 2016:1-8.

Aye T, Thein S, Hlaing T. Effects of strength training program on hip extensors and knee extensors strength of lower limb in children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy. J Phys Ther Sci. 2016;28(2):671-6.

Dos Santos AN, da Costa CS, Golineleo MT, Rocha NA. Functional strength training in child with cerebral palsy GMFCS IV: case report. Dev Neurorehabil. 2013 Oct;16(5):308-14. doi: 10.3109/17518423.2012.731085. Epub 2013 Apr 25. PubMed PMID: 23617884.

Scholtes VA, Becher JG, Janssen-Potten YJ, Dekkers H, Smallenbroek L, Dallmeijer AJ. Effectiveness of functional progressive resistance exercise training on walking ability in children with cerebral palsy: a randomized controlled trial. Res Dev Disabil. 2012 Jan-Feb;33(1):181-8. doi: 10.1016/j.ridd.2011.08.026. Epub 2011 Oct 11. PubMed PMID: 22093663.

Taylor NF, Dodd KJ, Baker RJ, Willoughby K, Thomason P, Graham HK. Progressive resistance training and mobility-related function in young people with cerebral palsy: a randomized controlled trial. Dev Med Child Neurol. 2013 Sep;55(9):806-12. doi: 10.1111/dmcn.12190. Epub 2013 Jun 22

 

 

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Phrenic Nerve Pacing for High-Level Spinal Cord Injury https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/2016/10/31/phrenic-nerve-pacing-for-high-level-spinal-cord-injury/ https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/2016/10/31/phrenic-nerve-pacing-for-high-level-spinal-cord-injury/#respond Mon, 31 Oct 2016 18:30:11 +0000 https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/?p=712 Background Information:

dps-illustration-text_0

  • 4% of spinal cord injuries (SCI) lead to chronic mechanical ventilation
  • Mechanical ventilation, currently the gold standard for respiratory dependent patients, has many potential complications
  • Serious complications include:
    • Pneumonia, the leading cause of decreased life expectancy amongst this population
    • Respiratory Infection
  • Via transcutaneous electrical stimulation, the patency of the phrenic nerve can be determined preoperatively
  • If intact, these patients may be candidates for phrenic nerve pacing
  • Phrenic nerve pacers can be laparoscopically placed, including internal electrodes and an external transmitter

Clinical Scenario:

A 36 year old male sustained a C3 ASIA B SCI 1 week ago He is currently in the ICU being mechanically ventilated with no significant improvement. Prior to his injury, he was living at home with his wife and two young children and working as an investment banker. Physical examination findings include diminished sensation throughout thoracic region and no motor function below level of injury. Patient goals are to return to home and work independently with focus on resuming his role as a father.

PICO Question:

Does diaphragmatic pacing improve respiratory independence and QOL in individuals with spinal cord injury as compared to mechanical ventilation.

Search Strategy:

21 articles identified using PubMed, CINAHL and Cochrane.

Variations of Terms Used: “spinal cord injury”, “diaphragm pacing”, “respiratory”, “phrenic nerve”

Inclusion Criteria: Diagnosis of cervical spinal cord injury, ventilator dependence, English studies, published 2005-present

Exclusion Criteria: Diagnosis of  Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, phrenic nerve lesions

Results:

Author

Year

Country

Patient Population Study Type and Level Of Evidence Outcomes Key Results
Tedde ML, et. al. (2012)

Brazil

Ventilator dependent quadriplegics post cervical trauma Clinical Trial

Level 3 Evidence

D&B: 12/27

Independence from MV3 •N=5

•At 6 month f/u:

•3 patients continuous DPS4

•1 patients 6 hours/day

•1 patient unable to sustain

Romero FJ, et. al. (2012)

Spain

Ventilator Dependent High-Cervical SCI patients Retrospective Review

Level 3 Evidence

D&B: 17/27

SF-36 •Social Functioning:

•PNP: 7.67 ± 1.80

•MV Group: 5.67 ± 1.17

•P value <.001

•No significant change in physical functioning, general health, role limitations, physical pain, vitality

Poluszny JA, et. al. (2013)

United States

Ventilator dependent SCI patients with intact phrenic nerves Retrospective Cohort Study

Level 3 Evidence

D&B: 16/27

Independence from MV3 •N=22

•18 participants continuous DPS4

•2 participants: 4 and 12 hours/day

•1 patient unable to sustain

•1 patient with prolonging life measures withdrawn

Hirschfeld S, et. al. (2008)

Germany

SCI patients with induced respiratory device dependency Prospective Cohort Study

Level 3 Evidence

D&B: 20/27

Patient and Physician reported QOL •Unanimous patient reported improved self confidence with PNP over MV
Onders RP, et. al. (2007)

United States

Ventilator dependent tetraplegics with a C2 injury occurring in childhood Prospective Cohort Review

Level 3 Evidence

D&B: 9/27

Independence from MV3, Patient reported QOL •N=10

•4 patients continuous DPS4

•4 patients day time only

•2 unable to sustain

•Unanimous patient reported preferences for DPS4, improvements in mobility and ease of integration into society

Limitations:

  • Lacking validated outcome measures
  • Small Sample Sizes
  • Procedures for implantation and weaning were variable
  • Lacking long term follow up
  • No control groups
  • Lack of homogeneity amongst groups
    • Age
    • Time on MV
    • Level of injury
    • Severity of Injury

Clinical Bottom Line:

There is low-level evidence that suggests phrenic nerve pacing is a safe and effective alternative treatment for ventilator dependent, high-level, cervical spinal cord injury patients. Additionally, this evidence supports decreased complications common with mechanical ventilation and improved resocialization, mobility, independence, and overall quality of life.

Application:

Phrenic nerve pacing has been shown to improve independence and quality of life. Due to my patient’s goals of returning to his work and family responsibilities, and the lack of any serious adverse events reported with this treatment, phrenic nerve pacing may be an appropriate alternative. After transcutaneous nerve testing determines the patency of his phrenic nerve, offering this as a potential alternative treatment to chronic mechanical ventilation allows my patient to be an active participant in his plan of care.

Acknowledgements:

Thank you to Dr. Richard Lauer for your assistance along the way.

References:

  1. Posluszny JA, Onders R, Kewin AJ, Weinstein MS, Stein DM, Knight J, et al. Multicenter review of diaphragm pacing in spinal cord injury: Successful not only in weaning from ventilators but also in bridging to independent respiration. J Trauma Acute Care Surg. 2014;76(2):303-9. Doi:10.1097/TA.0000000000000112
  2. Romero FJ, Gabarrutta C, Garcia-Forcada A, et al. Long-term evaluation of phrenic nerve pacing for respiratory failure due to high cervical spinal cord injury. Spinal Cord. 2012; 50(12): 895-8. Doi: 10.1038/sc.2012.74
  3. Tedde ML, Filho PV, Hajjar LA, Almeida JP, Flora GF, et. al. Diaphragmatic pacing stimulation in spinal cord injury: anesthetic and perioperative management. Clinics. 2012. 67(11). Doi: 10.6061
  4. Hirschfeld S, Exner G, Luukaala T, Baer GA. Mechanical ventilation or phrenic nerve stimulation for treatment of spinal cord injury-induced respiratory insufficiency. Spinal Cord. 2008; 46(11): 738-42. Doi: 10.1038/sc.2008.43
  5. Onder RP, Elmo MJ, Ignagni AR. Diaphragm Pacing Stimulation System for Tetraplegia in Individuals Injured During Childhood or Adolescence. J Spinal Cord Med. 2007; 30(1):25-29.

With further questions please contact Rebecca Maidansky at rmaidansky@temple.edu

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Does Time to Foot Off Identify Falls Risk in Individuals with Chronic Stroke? https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/2016/10/31/does-time-to-foot-off-identify-falls-risk-in-individuals-with-chronic-stroke/ https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/2016/10/31/does-time-to-foot-off-identify-falls-risk-in-individuals-with-chronic-stroke/#respond Mon, 31 Oct 2016 18:04:12 +0000 https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/?p=688 Background:

It is well documented that survivors of stroke are at an increased risk of falls relative to age-matched controls.1,2 Ability to take a reactive step is paramount in recovery from an unexpected loss of balance.3,4 Therefore impaired reactive stepping has been proposed as one important component of the multivariate nature of falls following a stroke. One value that has been the topic of discussion in reactive stepping literature is the TFO, or time to foot off. This measure represents the time between the release of external support of an individual leaning their center of mass (anteriorly) outside of their base of support, to the time in which their body weight is no longer supported by the limb in which they choose to step. Characteristics of impaired reactive stepping have been shown to correlate with falls in elderly populations.2

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Search Strategy:

Pub Med:  Search Terms: (((stepping) OR reactive stepping) AND poststroke) OR reactive stepping[Title/Abstract]

CINAHL: Boolean/phrase: reactive stepping OR stepping AND poststroke

WOS: Search strategy : TITLE: (reactive stepping) AND TOPIC: (stroke)

Inclusion Criteria:

-Participants must be above the age of eighteen and had their neurologic incident at least two weeks prior to enlisting in the study in order to be considered ‘chronic.’

-The methodology of how the researchers obtained values related to perturbation or reactive response must be clearly explained within the article.

-At least one outcome related to falls in the stoke population must have been collected.

Exclusion Criteria

-Articles which only examined metrics on gait or focused on outcomes related to gait.

-Level V evidence

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dos

tres

 

Rationale for data collection:

A lack of association between reactive stepping impairment and utilized clinical measures (BBS, gait velocity, STRATIFY falls risk tool) has been identified. This suggests a limitation may exist when drawing inferences with these measures to predict likelihood of falls. Therefore we may be missing a critical evaluative component in this patient population, which could also help us streamline our intervention. In addition, falls render increased healthcare utilization and diminished quality of life of affected individuals.

Methods:

-Setting and participants:

Leahy lab at the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia. Subjects (n=6) recruited as part of a larger study at the university lab investigating moderate intensity walking in people with stroke. Subjects recruited from local physical therapy clinics, stroke support groups, and individuals who have participated in research and classroom activities previously at the USciences Department of Physical Therapy. Healthy controls (n=5) are healthcare students recruited by convenience.

Inclusion:

-People over the age of 18 years with one or more strokes at least 3 months previously

-Ambulatory without physical assistance of other person (orthotic devices, canes or walkers will be allowed)

-Able to follow instructions and able to communicate with investigators as assessed by specific NIH Stroke Scale questions.

Exclusion:

-Bone or joint problems that limit the ability to walk

-Resting hear rate outside of the range of 40-100 beats per minute

-Resting blood pressure outside of the range of 90/60 to 170/90 mm Hg

-Chest pain or shortness of breath with exertion

-Score of >1 on question 1b and >0 on question 1c on the NIH Stroke Scale inability to communicate with investigators.

Demographics:

Control group:

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Affected group:

cinco

 

Upon entering clinic individuals were oriented to the purposed of the study, screened to be deemed fit for inclusion, and consented for participation. Then the following outcomes were collected: TUG, TUGmanual, TUGcognitive, 6MWT, 4 square step test (modified if unable), gait velocity-preferred, and gait velocity-fast.

They then underwent the reactive stepping assessment. They underwent five trials where they were able to step with whatever limb they desired. Following this five trials were done while blocking the preferred limb in an attempt to elicit a step with the non-preferred limb.

The method for each trial is as follows:

  1. Participant is to stand statically in their preferred foot position inside of a body weight support system designed to catch them if an attempt to regain balance is failed.
  2. Patient will be positioned on a GaitRite system. (Collecting data through ProtoKinetics Movement analysis software)
  3. A gait belt is then locked into a closed loop around the patient by tester #1 and placed outside of the subject’s shoulders, utilizing the acromion bilaterally as the landmark of standardization.
  4. A Lafayette Manual Muscle Testing myometer is then placed inside of the gait belt (with the screen visible to tester #1) so as to garner the force paced upon it when the gait belt pulls forward, as described in step #6.
  5. Tester #1 checks to make sure both feet are in alignment before having subject lean.
  6. As tester #1 holds the myometer statically in place, the individual is instructed to progressively lean forward into the gait belt until 8-10% of their precalculated bodyweight is displayed on the readout. The subject is then instructed to hold this position as best they can.
  7. The subject is then released 2-10 seconds after they are instructed to hold their ‘forward leaning’ position with the desired % body weight. At this time the subject is release by tester #1, inducing a reactive stepping response. If at any point the subject falls outside of the 8-10% range of their bodyweight, the process will be started over again from step #4.

Data Extraction

Extracting the TFO value was done utilizing the PKMAS software system for the GaitRite mat. In the photo below the box labeled ‘temporal 4’ gives the indication of when the subject was released through the sharp increase in slope of the center of pressure (red) reading. This time is noted, and the time at which pressure is no longer picked up by the stepping limb is noted. The time between these two values is noted. The GaitRite mat has a sampling rate of 120 Hertz, therefore frames are captured every 8 milliseconds.

tfo-ex2

Statistical analysis:

Nonparametric

Independent-samples Mann-Whitney U test

-To identify between-group differences in TFO and outcome measures

Spearman rank correlation coefficient (Spearman’s rho)

-To identify correlation between TFO and outcome measures

Wilcoxon signed-ranks test

-To identify between-limb differences in stroke and control group

 

seis

seite

Results:

**Red indicates statistical significance

Wilcoxon Signed ranks test

-No significant difference between TFOu and TFOr in either group.

M-WU:

ocho

nueve

Limitations:

-Inherent limitation in methodology (e.g. handheld myometer use). Non age-matched controls from sample of convenience. Small sample size limits generalizability and ability to establish validity.

Suggestions for future research:

Larger sample sizes. Research individuals who have experienced a stroke compared to age-matched cohort. Correlate TFO values with fall rates in the community. Explore utility of this measure as an outcome and how it responds to interventions. Cost-effective methods of collecting value in outpatient realm.

Citations

1.Maki B, Edmonstone M, Perry S, Heung E, Quant S, McIlroy W. Control of rapid limb movements for balance recovery: do age-related changes predict falls risk? Control of Posture and Gait. Maastricht, the Netherlands: International Society for Postural and Gait Research; 2001: 126-129.

2.Hilliard MJ, Martinez KM, Janssen I, et al. Lateral balance factors predict future falls in community-living older adults. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2008;89: 1708-1713

3.Maki BE, McIlroy WE. The role of limb movement in maintaining upright stance: the “change-in-support” strategy. Phys Ther. 1997;77: 488-507.

4.Maki BE, McIlroy WE. Control of rapid limb movements for balance recovery: age-related changes and implications for fall prevention. Age Ageing. 2006;35(suppl 2): ii12-ii18.

5 articles from search:

  1. Mansfield A, Inness EL, Wong JS, Fraser JE, McIlroy WE. Is impaired control of reactive stepping related to falls during inpatient stroke rehabilitation? Neurorehabil Neural Repair. 2013;27:526-33.
  2. Inness EL, Mansfield A, Lakhani B, Bayley M, McIlroy W. Impaired reactive stepping among patients ready for discharge from inpatient stroke rehabilitation. Phys Ther. 2014;94:1755-64.
  3. Martinez KM, Mille M, Zhang Y, Rogers MW. Stepping in persons poststroke: comparison of voluntary and pertubation-induced responses.  Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2013; 94:2425-32.
  4. Inness EL, Mansfield A, Bayley M, McIlroy WE. Reactive stepping after stroke: determinants of time to foot off in the paretic and nonparetic limb. Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy. 2016; 40:196-202.
  5. Lakhani B, Mansfield A, Inness E, McIlroy WE. Compensatory stepping responses in individuals with stroke: a pilot study. Physiotherapy Theory and Practice. 2011; 27(4): 299-309.

 

 

 

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Effectiveness of Aerobic Exercise on Prolonged Symptoms after Mild Traumatic Brain Injury https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/2016/10/31/effectiveness-of-aerobic-exercise-on-prolonged-symptoms-after-mild-traumatic-brain-injury/ https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/2016/10/31/effectiveness-of-aerobic-exercise-on-prolonged-symptoms-after-mild-traumatic-brain-injury/#respond Mon, 31 Oct 2016 17:04:23 +0000 https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/?p=692 Background Information:

  • An estimated 3.8 million people sustain a concussion every year1,4
  • 10% – 33% of individuals with mild traumatic brain injury experience symptoms months to years later1
  • Post-concussion syndrome (PCS) is defined as persistence of > 3 symptoms 7-10 days after injury5: Headache, Dizziness, Fatigue, Irritability, Insomnia, Concentration Difficulty, Memory Difficulty, Stress or emotion intolerance
  • One cause of PCS may be altered autonomic function and impaired autoregulation and distribution of cerebral blood flow

Clinical Case:

  • 15 y.o. female student s/p MVA 1 month ago hitting head on dash board
  • ER visit diagnosed mTBI –> prescribed “rest”
  • S/s:  headaches, fatigue, worsens with reading, noisy family, screen time
  • Goals: asymptomatic school day, return to tennis, recreational running
  • PT: Vestibular, postural, and cervicogenic exercises initiated

PICO: Is aerobic exercise beneficial in individuals with prolonged symptoms after mTBI?


Search Strategy: 1,247 articles identified in PubMed, CINAHL, Academic Search Complete

  • Terms: (concussion OR post-concussion syndrome OR mild traumatic brain injury) AND (exercise OR rehabilitation OR treatment). English language, peer reviewed, humans, 10 years.
  • Inclusion: subjects sustained mild TBI/concussion by means of sport, MVA, or other,  experiencing post-concussive symptoms > 2 weeks, exercise intervention defined, post-concussive related outcome measures (symptoms, fatigue, QOL, function)
  • Exclusion: acute phase mTBIs, moderate to severe TBI’s, non interventional studies

Results:

results-chart

aPost-concussive symptoms > 4 weeks aa > 6 weeks, bBalke Treadmill test, BDI: Beck Depression Inventory, PCSI: Post Concussion Symptom Inventory, PCS: Post Concussion Scale, SE: statistically significant effects listed (p <0.05)

Limitations and suggestions:

  • “Active” control groups1,3, Lack of control group2,3,5
  • Small sample size1-5
  • Multiple treatment interference2
  • Inadequate follow up1-3,5
  • Lacking consensus on intensity and duration
  • Optimal timing of intervention unclear
  • Higher quality research suggested to directly compare aerobic exercise with other interventions such as dual tasking, cervicogenic, vestibular exercises, and non participants.

Clinical Bottom Line:

There is moderate to low level evidence to support the use of aerobic exercise in patients with prolonged symptoms after sustaining a mild traumatic brain injury.  This particular literature review offers recent interventional case studies and a randomized clinical trial in which aerobic exercise is the primary intervention and assessment tool used to prescribe a customized, progressive, aerobic rehabilitation program whether on a treadmill or stationary bike. Each study reported a statistically significant change in some aspects of post-concussive symptoms such as return to full daily functioning, ability to exercise maximally without symptom exacerbation, and decrease in post-concussion symptom specific scales. No adverse events or negative impacts were reported in the studies from engaging sub-symptom exacerbation aerobic exercise in patients still experiencing prolonged symptoms after mTBI, which had previously been thought to be deleterious until research as such as been published in the recent decades.

It is proposed that exercise assessment and aerobic exercise training may reduce concussion-related physiological dysfunction by restoring autonomic balance and by improving autoregulation of cerebral blood flow. Controlled progressive aerobic exercise treatment may help to restore normal CBF regulation by conditioning the brain to gradually adapt to repetitive mild elevations of systolic blood pressure.3-5


Application:

  • Obtain baseline (use of BALKE, BUFFALO CONCUSSION TREADMILL TEST, or Bike Test described in Kurowski 2016)
    • Treadmill or bike
      • Stationary bike program indicated if excess head movements are provoking on treadmill
    • Monitor vitals
      • HR, BP, RPE, & symptoms
    • Progress intensity until exacerbation
  • Prescribe aerobic exercise program
    • Intensity: 80% of symptomatic duration OR symptomatic heart rate/RPE if patient able to self monitor
    • Frequency: 5 days a week, 4 to 6 weeks
    • Monitor symptom trends and modify program accordingly weekly
      • progress it!
  • Consider multi-modal treatment
    • Though aerobic exercise seems beneficial in ameliorating prolonged symptoms, consider challenging your patient in other modes such as dual tasking, vestibular, balance, and sport specific exercises alongside your aerobic exercise treatment (see Gagnon 2016) for they may be symptomatic in some realms but not others.

Acknowledgements:

Anne Galgon, PT, PhD, NCS

Contact: Jackie Pedersen, Temple Class of 2017. jacqueline.pedersen@temple.edu

References:

1. Kurowski BG, Hugentobler J, Quatman-Yates C, Taylor J, Gubanich PJ, Altaye M, Wade SL. Aerobic Exercise for Adolescents With Prolonged Symptoms After Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: An Exploratory Randomized Clinical Trial.  J Head Trauma Rehabil. 2016 Apr 26. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 27120294.

2.Gagnon I, Grilli L, Friedman D, Iverson GL. A pilot study of active rehabilitation for adolescents who are slow to recover from sport-related concussion. Scand J Med Sci Sports. 2016;26(3):299-306

3.Leddy JJ, Cox JL, Baker JG, Wack DS, Pendergast DR, Zivadinov R, Willer B. Exercise treatment for postconcussion syndrome: a pilot study of changes in functional magnetic resonance imaging activation, physiology, and symptoms. J Head Trauma Rehabil. 2013 Jul-Aug;28(4):241-9

4. Baker JG, Freitas MS, Leddy JJ, Kozlowski KF, Willer BS. Return to full functioning after graded exercise assessment and progressive exercise treatment of postconcussion syndrome. Rehabilitation Research & Practice. 2012:1-7

5.Leddy JJ, Kozlowski K, Donnelly JP, Pendergast DR, Epstein LH, Willer B. A preliminary study of subsymptom threshold exercise training for refractory post-concussion syndrome. Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine. 2010;20(1):21-2

 

 

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Specific vs. General Exercise for Chronic Neck Pain https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/2016/10/31/specific-vs-general-exercise-for-chronic-neck-pain/ https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/2016/10/31/specific-vs-general-exercise-for-chronic-neck-pain/#respond Mon, 31 Oct 2016 16:35:07 +0000 https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/?p=691 Background:

  • Neck pain is the third most commonly reported type of pain
  • There is a higher prevalence in women than men
  • Chronic neck pain often leads to impaired movement coordination, endurance, and strength

 

Clinical Case and PICO:

  • 59 y.o. retired female seamstress with insidious onset of neck pain that has lasted over 5 yrs.
  • Current pain level of 4/10 and 8/10 at worst on NPRS| NDI: 30%
  • Denies any numbness, tingling, and headaches
  • Relief with lying down and NSAIDs
  • Family physician advised that general exercise would ↓ pain
  • Primary Impairments: ↓neck ROM (flexion, b/l rotation), ↓ endurance (per CCFT)
  • Functional Limitations: reading, crossing the street, care-taking grandson

PICO: For individuals with chronic neck pain, is general exercise as effective for reducing pain and improving function as specific exercise targeting deep neck flexors?

 

picture2

Figure 1: Deep Cervical Flexors – Longus Capitis and Longus Colli

 

Search Strategy:

  • 59 articles identified
  • via PubMed, CINAHL, and PEDro
  • 9 duplicates removed
  • 50 articles screened
  • 42 articles not relevant
  • 8 full-text articles screened
  • 3 articles excluded
  • 5 articles included

 

Key Results:

Author, Date, Country Patient Population Study Type, Evidence Outcomes Key Results
O’Leary, 2011, Australia N = 60

Pain > 6 mos., score btw. 10/50 – 15/50 on NDI

RCT

Level II

Pain (VAS)

Disability (NDI)

Specific exercises targeting endurance, strength, coordination, and ROM improved these respective motor performances with minor carry-over in performance in other motor domains.

Pain: Meaningful from baseline to 10 wks. for coordination group (↓19.2 mm)

Disability: All groups had similar reductions in disability

Ludvigsson, 2015, Sweden N = 216

Pain > 6 mos., > 10/50 on NDI,  > 20/100mm on VAS, post-WAD.

RCT

Level II

Pain (VAS)

Disability (NDI)

Neck-specific group resulted in better outcomes in pain and disability than general exercise group.

Pain: Significant ↓ over time in all three groups

Disability: Significant ↓ from baseline to 6 mos. for neck-specific group.

No improvement for general exercise.

Izquierdo, 2015, Spain N = 28

Pain > 3 mos., < 15/50 on NDI

RCT

Level II

Pain (VAS)

Disability (NDI)

Both CCF and proprioceptive groups  improved in pain and disability as well as positive outcomes for deep neck flexor neuromuscular control.

Pain: Meaningful for current pain from baseline to post 2 mos. (↓3.45mm in CCF and ↓4.00mm in proprioception). Resulted in no current pain.

Disability: Significant from baseline to post 2 mos. (↓3.25pts. for CCF and ↓3.28pts. for proprioception)

Borisut 2013, Thailand N = 100

Pain > 6 mos., > 30/100 mm on VAS

Clinical Trial

Level III

Pain (VAS)

Disability (NDI)

Pain and disability improved for strength-endurance, CCF, and combined group.

Pain: Meaningful from baseline to 12 wks. in combined group (↓44.6mm)

Disability: Meaningful from baseline to 12 wks. in strength-endurance (↓13.51pts.), CCF (↓15.55pts.), combo (↓13.52pts.)

 

Kim, 2016, South Korea N = 28

Pain > 3 mos., NDI < 15 pts.

Clinical Trial

Level III

Pain (NPRS)

Disability (NDI)

DCF group had better outcomes in pain and disability than general exercise group.

Pain: Meaningful at 8 wks. for DCF (↓3.5pts.)

Disability: Significant at 8 wks. for DCF (↓3.8 pts.)

Legend: CCF = craniocervical flexion  | VAS = Visual Analog Scale | CCFT = craniocervical flexion test

DCF = deep cervical flexor  | NDI = Neck Disability Index | NPRS = Numeric Pain Rating Scale

 

Clinical Bottom Line:

Upon review of moderate level evidence comparing general exercise to deep neck flexor exercise in treating chronic neck pain, general exercise is not as effective as deep neck flexor exercise but more specifically, the evidence suggests that any neck-specific exercise can improve pain and disability.

 

Limitations:

  • No long-term follow-up past 6 months
  • Only studied patients with mild neck pain and disability
  • Subjects and therapists were not blinded
  • Impairments were not targeted for patient interventions

 

Application:

As with most conditions, it is imperative to identify the key impairments related to the individual and to prescribe exercises that target that impairment.  The specific neck exercise that targets the impairment will address the impairment and also improve pain and disability.

Plan of Care –

Patient Education:

– Ergonomic modifications

– Discuss chronic pain

– Reassurance

Manual Therapy:

– Cervical Traction

– Atlantoaxial Joint Mobilization

Therapeutic Exercise:

– Endurance – CCF

– Mobility – cervical rotation and flexion

picture1

Figure 2: Craniocervical Flexion Exercise using objective measurement

 

Acknowledgements:

Bill Egan, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT & Temple DPT Class of 2017

 

References:

1. O’Leary S, Jull G, Kim M, Uthaikhup S, Vicenzino B. Training mode-dependent changes in motor performance in neck pain. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2012;93(7):1225-1233. doi: 10.1016/j.apmr.2012.02.018 [doi].

2. Ludvigsson ML, Peterson G, O’Leary S, Dedering A, Peolsson A. The effect of neck-specific exercise with, or without a behavioral approach, on pain, disability, and self-efficacy in chronic whiplash-associated disorders: A randomized clinical trial. Clin J Pain. 2015;31(4):294-303. doi: 10.1097/AJP.0000000000000123 [doi].

3. Gallego Izquierdo T, Pecos-Martin D, Lluch Girbés E, et al. Comparison of cranio-cervical flexion training versus cervical proprioception training in patients with chronic neck pain: A randomized controlled clinical trial. J REHABIL MED (16501977). 2016;48(1):48-55. http://libproxy.temple.edu/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=cin20&AN=112739640&site=ehost-live&scope=site. doi: 10.2340/16501977-2034.

4. Borisut S, Vongsirinavarat M, Vachalathiti R, Sakulsriprasert P. Effects of strength and endurance training of superficial and deep neck muscles on muscle activities and pain levels of females with chronic neck pain. J PHYS THER SCI. 2013;25(9):1157-1162. http://libproxy.temple.edu/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=cin20&AN=104154602&site=ehost-live&scope=site. doi: 10.1589/jpts.25.1157.

5. Kim JY, Kwag KI. Clinical effects of deep cervical flexor muscle activation in patients with chronic neck pain. J Phys Ther Sci. 2016;28(1):269-273. doi: 10.1589/jpts.28.269 [doi].

 

Contact Information:

georgechau@gmail.com

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Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to Enhance Upper Extremity Motor Recovery After Stroke https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/2016/10/30/repetitive-transcranial-magnetic-stimulation-to-enhance-upper-extremity-motor-recovery-after-stroke/ https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/2016/10/30/repetitive-transcranial-magnetic-stimulation-to-enhance-upper-extremity-motor-recovery-after-stroke/#respond Mon, 31 Oct 2016 01:33:00 +0000 https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/?p=583 Background:

  • More than 795,000 people suffer from a cerebral vascular accident (CVA) each year
    • Ischemic strokes account for approximately 87% of all CVA’s
  • Leading cause of disability in the United States
  • CVA’s cost an estimated $34 billion each year
    • Includes medication costs, health care services, and missed work days
  • Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is a device that uses an electromagnet to stimulate small areas of the brain
    • This is achieved by low or high frequency magnetic pulses that send an electric current across the brain tissue
  • Low frequency stimulation has inhibitory effects
    • Transcallosal Disinhibition: By inhibiting the non-lesioned hemisphere the theory is that competition between hemispheres is decreased and it allows for more cortical excitability due to the non-lesioned hemisphere no longer inhibiting the affected hemisphere.
  • High frequency stimulation has excitatory effects

picture1

Image source: www.practicalpainmanagement.com

Case Scenario:

  • Hank is a 66 y.o. male diagnosed with a left middle cerebral artery thrombotic infarction 2 weeks ago.  He underwent surgery for recanalization of his left MCA and was placed on anticoagulants. Hank has a past medical history of hypertension, diabetes mellitus II, and peripheral vascular disease.

    Upon exam Hank was A&O x 3, able to follow commands, and provide social history. He is a retired school teacher who enjoys working on antique cars in his free time. Hank lives at home in a 1 story house with his wife and was previously independent with all ADLs and IADLs. He denies any pain but states, “I just can’t really feel my left hand very well.”  Hank is 6’1” and 182 lbs and right hand dominant.

     

    Hank is very hopeful that PT will “get his arm moving like it used to” so he has the upper extremity strength and hand dexterity to continue working on his cars.

picture2

Image Source: www.radiologyassistant.nl

Key Exam Findings:

  • Right upper extremity demonstrates a flexion synergy pattern with AROM
  • Manual muscle tests of the right upper extremity
    • Shoulder flexion 3/5
    • Elbow flexion 2/5
    • Elbow extension 2/5
    • Decreased grip strength
  • Diminished sensation to light touch in right upper extremity throughout C6-T1 dermatomes

PICO Question:

Does repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation before activity training enhance upper extremity motor recovery in adults s/p CVA?

Search Strategy:

The following limits were applied: Published within the past 10 years, human species, English language, Meta-analyses, Systematic Reviews, RCTs

try

Inclusion Criteria, article must include:

  • Adults (>18 years old) who present with upper extremity paresis after stroke
  • At least one intervention arm that consisted of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation to either the ipsilesional or contralesional hemisphere
  • At least one intervention arm that consisted of motor/activity training after stimulation
  • Assessment of at least one of the following outcome measures:
    • Fugl- Meyer Assessment
    • Wolf Motor Function Test
    • 9 Hole Peg Test
    • Grip strength
    • Upper limb force production

Exclusion Criteria, article cannot include:

  • Stimulation to areas of the brain other than M1 or the premotor cortex
  • Other non-invasive brain stimulation techniques

Evidence Summary Table:

Author, Date, and Country Patient Population Study Type and Level of Evidence Outcomes Conclusion Study Weaknesses
Hao, 2013

China

Patients of any age or sex after stroke, regardless of the duration of illness or severity of the initial impairment Systematic Review

Level I

PRISMA: 23/27

Motor Outcomes: Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test, Pegboard Task, Wolf Motor Function Test, Action Research Arm Test –Use of rTMS for patients with stroke is not recommended until its efficacy is verified in high-quality, large scale RCT’s

Subgroup analysis: Contralesional rTMS displayed a moderate effect size on motor outcomes

Small number of subjects across all articles reviewed with sample sizes ranging from 10 to 123.

Stimulation parameters varied across studies.

No studies included with long term follow-up.

Inclusion criteria for participants was not very strict, for example a study with pediatric patients was included.

Meta-Analysis for motor function was only performed on 4 of 19 studies.

 

Hsu, 2012

Taiwan

Adults diagnosed with stroke Systematic Review

Level I

PRISMA: 20/27

Wolf Motor Function Test, Nine-Hole Peg Test, Grip Strength  

–rTMS suggests a clinically positive effect on motor recovery in the affected upper limb of patients with stroke

Low frequency rTMS over the contralesional hemisphere being more effective in enhancing upper limb motor recovery based on subgroup analysis

Small number of subjects across all articles reviewed

Many articles reviewed report a wide variety of long term outcomes, if any (from 2 weeks to 1 year),

Outcome measures, experimental designs, inclusion criteria, and rTMS protocols varied between articles.

 

Etoh, 2013

Japan

Adults with chronic stroke; either first or second unilateral stroke Randomized Double-Blind Crossover Study

Level II

PEDro: 6/10

Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Action Research Arm Test, Simple Test for Evaluating Hand Function Low frequency inhibitory rTMS to the contralesional hemisphere facilitated the effects of repetitive facilitation exercises (100 reps of 5 to 8 exercises) in improving the motor function of the affected upper limb in patients with chronic stroke Very small sample size.

“Sham” stimulation still involved actual use of the rTMS coil and it is possible that there was some stimulation to the motor cortex or the sensory cortex that may have confounded the results.

No long term follow-up.

Generalizability limited to those with unilateral chronic stroke

 

Seniow, 2012

Poland

Adults diagnosed with stroke with onset of symptoms <3months Randomized Control Trial
Level II

PEDro: 9/10

Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Wolf Motor Function Test  

Contralesional inhibitory stimulation to the primary motor cortex by low frequency rTMS is not yet an evidence-based method during early rehab for patients with stroke

There were statistically significant differences in both groups from pre test to post test scores, however there were no significant between group differences

 

 

 

Small sample size, The article stated that those in the experimental group received more PT posttreatment, There was loss to follow-up in both groups potentially skewing the data, though an intention to treat analysis was performed.

Generalizability limited to those in early rehabilitation post stroke

Wang, 2014

Taiwan

Adults with chronic stroke Randomized Control Trial

Level II

PEDro: 9/10

Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Wolf Motor Function Test, Medical Research Council Scale (grip strength and shoulder flexion) Inhibitory rTMS to the contralesional premotor cortex or primary motor cortex facilitated restoration of motor function in patients with chronic stroke

The patients assigned to the contralesional M1 and contralesional  dorsal premotor cortex groups showed significant improvements in MRC, FMA, and WMFT scores post-rTMS compared with those of the sham groupwith stimulation to M1 demonstrating larger effect sizes than stimulation to the dorsal premotor cortex.

 

 

 

Small sample size with a very homogeneous sample of only right handed patients and those with an MCA infarct – not very generalizable. There was no control group for the premotor cortex stimulation. Stimulation to the dorsal premotor cortex was only 3 cm away from the M1 stimulation area, while simultaneously stimulating M1 was attempted to be controlled there may have been some overlap.

Generalizability limited to those with chronic stroke.

 

Clinical Bottom Line:

There is moderate to high-quality evidence that suggests low frequency, inhibitory repetitive magnetic transcranial stimulation (rTMS) to the contralesional hemisphere may be an effective intervention in facilitating upper extremity motor recovery in those with chronic stroke. However, more research is needed to determine this treatments effectiveness in other stroke populations.

rTMS is an emerging intervention in stroke rehabilitation, and the current evidence varies greatly in terms of acuity of stroke, type of stimulation administered, hemisphere stimulated, and type of motor training performed after rTMS intervention. These variations across studies made it more difficult to draw a consistent conclusion from all articles reviewed.

Application to Case Scenario:

  • The literature does not suggest that rTMS will have a significant effect on the patient in my case scenario based on the acuity of his stroke as he is 2 weeks s/p CVA.
    • POC for my patient:
      • Interventions will include:
        • Weight bearing exercises through the affected upper extremity
        • Reaching tasks
        • Active assisted range of motion exercises
        • Goal of progressing to strength training and fine motor skill training
    • Discharge plan for outpatient PT

Acknowledgements: Dr. Richard Lauer, PhD

References:

1.  Hao Z, Wang D, Zeng Y, Liu M. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for improving function after stroke. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013;(5):CD008862.

2. Hsu WY, Cheng CH, Liao KK, Lee IH, Lin YY. Effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on motor functions in patients with stroke: a meta-analysis. Stroke. 2012;43(7):1849-57.

3. Etoh S, Noma T, Ikeda K, et al. Effects of repetitive trascranial magnetic stimulation on repetitive facilitation exercises of the hemiplegic hand in chronic stroke patients. J Rehabil Med. 2013;45(9):843-7.

4. Seniów J, Bilik M, Leśniak M, Waldowski K, Iwański S, Członkowska A. Transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with physiotherapy in rehabilitation of poststroke hemiparesis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Neurorehabil Neural Repair. 2012;26(9):1072-9.

5. Wang CC, Wang CP, Tsai PY, Hsieh CY, Chan RC, Yeh SC. Inhibitory repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation of the contralesional premotor and primary motor cortices facilitate poststroke motor recovery. Restor Neurol Neurosci. 2014;32(6):825-35.

For further questions please contact: brooke.walters@temple.edu

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Self-Controlled Practice Conditions in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/2016/10/30/self-controlled-practice-conditions-in-patients-with-parkinsons-disease/ https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/2016/10/30/self-controlled-practice-conditions-in-patients-with-parkinsons-disease/#respond Mon, 31 Oct 2016 01:25:12 +0000 https://sites.temple.edu/dptebp2016/?p=629 Background

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that often results in a high risk of falls due to disordered motor control and postural instability. Research involving this population has focused on challenging impaired systems, and has demonstrated that using motor learning principles individuals with Parkinson’s disease are capable of learning motor tasks. In unimpaired populations self-controlled practice has consistently been shown to have positive effects on learning motor skills. Using this type of practice method, learners are given control over a certain aspect of the practice condition. To determine learning effects, controls are “yoked,” or matched to, self-controlled practice conditions.

Clinical Scenario

Mr. Parker is a 65 year old retired entrepreneur who presents to outpatient physical therapy with a 9 year history of Parkinson’s disease classified as Stage III on the Hoehn and Yahr scale. His past medical history is unremarkable with the exception of reporting two falls in the past month while walking in his home. Current medication includes Levadopa.

On examination, key findings were consistent with a typical Parkinsonian presentation including rounded shoulders and a forward head posture. He had diminished sensation on the plantar surface of his feet and reduced ROM and strength bilaterally. Balance and proprioception were decreased. The patient required minimal assist with bed mobility and transfers and presented with hypokinetic movement patterns. Gait assessment with close supervision and assistive device use revealed reduced stride length and speed, festination and freezing, reduced head, trunk, and arm movement, decreased hip and knee flexion during swing, and decreased ankle dorsiflexion at heel strike.

Mr. Parker’s goals include decreasing caregiver burden and difficulty with ADLs, improving strength in his lower extremities, improving balance to reduce falls and promote adherence to his HEP, and accompanying his wife of 40 years on long walks around their retirement community.

PICO Question

In patients with Parkinson’s disease (Stages II-IV Hoehn and Yahr) are self-controlled practice conditions during functional activity training an effective motor learning technique for improving balance and reducing the risk of falls?

Search Strategy & Results

Limits: English language & Humanssearch-strategy

PubMed

(self-controlled feedback) AND motor learning

Ovid

self-controlled AND balance

CINAHL

Self-controlled feedback AND balance

Evidence Appraisal & Study Participants

study-information

Interventions
study-1

In the first study by Hartman (2007) participants were required to balance on a stabilometer, attempting to maintain it in a horizontal position. After each practice phase, participants completed a questionnaire adapted from Chiviacowsky and Wulf (2002). The self-control group was asked when and why they did or did not request the balance pole. The yoked group was asked if they received the pole after the correct trials and if not when they would have preferred to have used the pole. The self-control group chose when and whether they used a balance pole during practice trials.

Acquisition Days 1 & 2: 10 – 30 sec trials; 15 sec rest periods

Retention Day 3: 10 – 30 sec trials; 15 sec rest periods

study-2a   study-2b   study-2c

In the second study by Wulf and Adams (2014) participants were asked to perform 3 balance tasks: Toe Touch, Head Turn, and Ball Pass using their dominant leg first. The choice group was able to choose the order of the tasks.

Acquisition Day 1: 3 exercises 5x each (R & L leg)

Retention Day 2: 3 exercises 2x each (R & L leg)

study-1

In the third study by Lewthwaite, et al. (2015) participants were once again required to balance on a stabilometer, keeping the platform as close to horizontal as possible. They were given feedback about their time in balance after each practice trial. The choice group was presented with two choices unrelated to the primary motor task to determine if it would have an impact on task learning.

Acquisition Day 1: 10 – 30 sec trials; 90 sec rest periods

Retention Day 2: 5 – 30 sec trials; 90 sec rest periods

study-4a

In the fourth study by Yoon, et al. (2013) subjects had to maintain an upright position for 10 seconds on a stabilometer. The choice group chose when they wanted visual feedback from the monitor, while a third group, the control group, received none.

Acquisition Day 1: 10 trials/block x 4 blocks

Retention Day 2: 10 trials/block x 2 blocks

study-5a

In the fifth study by Chiviacowsky, et al. (2012) participants with Parkinson’s disease balanced on a stabilometer while wearing a safety harness to prevent falls. At the end of practice on day 1 and after the retention test on day 2 a customized questionnaire was completed. Participants in the self-control group could request the pole on any trial     during the practice session.

Acquisition Day 1: 10 – 30 sec trials; 90 sec rest periods

Retention Day 2: 5 – 30 sec trials; 90 sec rest periods

*Participants in the yoked groups for all five studies were matched to self-controlled conditions.

Results

study-2-learning-curve

Wulf & Adams (2014)

In comparison to the control group the choice group had fewer errors (indicating a greater time in balance) during both the practice and retention phases when given a choice as to the order of their tasks.

study-3-learning-curvestudy-5-learning-curve

 

 

 

 

 

Lewthwaite, et al. (2015)                                   Chiviacowsky, et al. (2012)

The learning curves pictured above depict time in balance during practice and retention trials for unimpaired university students highlighted in green and individuals with Parkinson’s disease in yellow. In both studies the self-controlled group had longer times in balance compared to the yoked group. In individuals with Parkinson’s disease less time in balance is spent overall compared to healthier counterparts, as indicated by the time intervals on the y axis. However, as compared to those in the yoked group, in individuals with Parkinson’s disease time in balance immediately improved after the first trial. During the retention phase there was a small drop-off in learning during the first trial, but improvements in time in balance continued throughout the fourth trial. Although individuals with Parkinson’s disease tend to learn balance tasks more slowly, this study provides evidence that greater learning effects can occur when self-controlled practice conditions are utilized.

For the questionnaire results, after the practice phase on day 1 self-control participants rated their motivation significantly higher than yoked participants. There were no significant group differences in questionnaire responses on day 2 when the balance pole was removed. Both groups enjoyed practicing the task, but self-control participants were significantly less nervous before beginning the trials on day 1 compared to yoked participants. Although there were no group differences in body-position related concerns on day 1, the self-control group indicated less concern on day 2.

Hartman (2007)

The self-control group outperformed the yoked group (greater time in balance) on day 2 and during retention trials.

Following day 1, the self-control group reported on the questionnaire that they asked for the pole mostly because they wanted to try a new strategy on the next trial (44%) or for “other” reasons (44%). Other reasons ranged from “did not want assistance” to “used the pole at the beginning to try and get a feel for the stabilometer.” Although results were more varied on day 2, the main responses were once again new strategy (22%) or “other” (44%). Overall, 88% of participants on day 1 and 67% on day 2 reported that they did not ask for the pole mainly for strategic purposes. With regard to the yoked group, the majority of participants reported that they had not received the pole after the correct trials. Following day 1, 55% reported that they would have preferred to have received the pole when attempting a new strategy, 33% after bad trials, and 1 reported wanting it after alternating trials. On day 2, 77% indicated that they did not receive the pole after the correct trial, 33% would have preferred the pole after bad trials, 16% when wanting to try a new strategy, and 50% for other reasons. Other reasons included “do as well with or without the pole the more I do it” or “did not like the pole.”

Yoon, et al (2013)

The self-controlled group had significantly smaller left/right and anterior/posterior body sway amplitudes.

Evidence Summary

More effective learning occurs when participants have the opportunity to control some aspect of the practice condition, including the use of an assistive device or when they receive feedback.

Clinical Bottom Line

There is limited, low quality evidence that suggests that self-controlled practice conditions during functional activity training are an effective motor learning technique for improving balance and reducing the risk of falls in patients with Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, there is ample, higher quality evidence demonstrating more effective learning under self-controlled practice conditions relative to yoked conditions in unimpaired individuals.

Application of the Evidence

Although the evidence is limited, self-controlled practice conditions improved time in balance in study participants with Parkinson’s disease and should be implemented in Mr. Parker’s plan of care. Using a walking program to help improve his balance, Mr. Parker can choose when he receives kinesthetic feedback. He will be informed that he may touch the wall in the clinic as needed or when he chooses while maneuvering around and over a variety of objects and surfaces. Our goal will be to get him to eventually walk around his retirement community at least 20 minutes a day safely with an assistive device. As we work up to this goal, other forms of feedback will be provided as needed in order to ensure Mr. Parker’s safety and promote appropriate decision making processes during home and community ambulation.

References

  1. Hartman JM. Self-controlled use of a perceived physical assistance device during a balancing task. Percept Mot Skills. 2007;104:1005-1016. http://pms.sagepub.com/content/104/3/1005.full.pdf.
  2. Wulf G, Adams N. Small choices can enhance balance learning. Hum Mov Sci. 2014;38:235-240.
  3. Lewthwaite R, Chiviacowsky S, Drews R, Wulf G. Choose to move: the motivational impact of autonomy support on motor learning. Psychon Bull Rev. 2015;22(5):1383-1388. http://link.springer.com/article/10.3758%2Fs13423-015-0814-7.
  4. Yoon J-G, Yook D-W, Suh S-H, Lee T-H, Lee W-H. Effects of self-controlled feedback on balance during blocked training for patients with cerebrovascular accident. J. Phys. Ther. Sci. 2013;25:27-31. https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jpts/25/1/25_JPTS-2012-251/_pdf.
  5. Chiviacowsky S, Wulf G, Lewthwaite R, Campos T. Motor learning benefits of self-controlled practice in persons with Parkinson’s disease. Gait Posture. 2012;35(4):601-605.
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