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20 pages, 1311 KB  
Systematic Review
The Role of Virtual Reality, Exergames, and Digital Technologies in Knee Osteoarthritis Rehabilitation Before or After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review of the Interventions in Elderly Patients
by Ludovica Di Curzio, Teresa Paolucci, Sandra Miccinilli, Marco Bravi, Fabio Santacaterina, Lucrezia Giorgi, Silvia Sterzi, Loredana Zollo, Andrea Bernetti and Federica Bressi
Medicina 2025, 61(9), 1587; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61091587 - 2 Sep 2025
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic, degenerative joint disease. The main symptoms include pain that can cause loss of function and stiffness, as well as swelling, reduced range of motion, crepitus, joint deformity, and muscle weakness. It leads to irreversible [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic, degenerative joint disease. The main symptoms include pain that can cause loss of function and stiffness, as well as swelling, reduced range of motion, crepitus, joint deformity, and muscle weakness. It leads to irreversible structural changes, that in advanced stages can require surgical interventions. The aim of this review was to summarize the current literature about the role of virtual reality (VR), exergames and digital technologies in patients with knee osteoarthritis before or after total knee arthroplasty, to understand if it is possible to prevent and reduce the symptoms and if these new technologies are more effective than conventional rehabilitation therapies. Materials and Methods: We conducted a systematic search of PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and PEDro from inception to November 2024. The review adhered to the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, and the protocol was prospectively registered in PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42024541890). We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) enrolling participants aged 60 years or older, in which VR or telerehabilitation programs were compared with conventional rehabilitation approaches. Eligible studies had to report at least one of the following outcomes: pain, functionality, stability, or adherence. Two independent reviewers screened titles and abstracts, assessed full-text eligibility, extracted data, and evaluated the risk of bias using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (RoB 2) tool. Results: Fourteen randomized controlled trails (RCTs) (1123 participants; mean age 68.2 years) were included. VR and telerehabilitation generally outperformed conventional rehabilitation for pain (8/13 studies, −0.9 to −2.3 VAS points) and functionality (7/13 studies, WOMAC improvement 8–15%, TUG −1.2 to −2.8 s). Compliance was higher in most technology-assisted programs (6/7 studies, 70–100% adherence). Stability outcomes were less consistent, with only 1/4 studies showing clear benefit. One study favored conventional rehabilitation for functionality. Overall risk of bias was low-to-moderate, with heterogeneity mainly driven by intervention duration, platform type, and supervision level. Conclusions: Structured telerehabilitation, non-immersive VR, and interactive online exercise programs, especially those offering real-time feedback, show comparable or superior benefits to conventional rehabilitation in older adults with knee OA or after TKA, particularly for pain reduction, functional gains, and adherence. These approaches enhance accessibility and home-based care, supporting their integration into clinical practice when in-person therapy is limited. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Orthopedics)
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24 pages, 4245 KB  
Article
Healthy Movement Leads to Emotional Connection: Development of the Movement Poomasi “Wello!” Application Based on Digital Psychosocial Touch—A Mixed-Methods Study
by Suyoung Hwang, Hyunmoon Kim and Eun-Surk Yi
Healthcare 2025, 13(17), 2157; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13172157 - 29 Aug 2025
Viewed by 209
Abstract
Background/Objective: The global acceleration of population aging presents profound challenges to the physical, psychological, and social well-being of older adults. As traditional exercise programs face limitations in accessibility, personalization, and sustained social support, there is a critical need for innovative, inclusive, and community-integrated [...] Read more.
Background/Objective: The global acceleration of population aging presents profound challenges to the physical, psychological, and social well-being of older adults. As traditional exercise programs face limitations in accessibility, personalization, and sustained social support, there is a critical need for innovative, inclusive, and community-integrated digital movement solutions. This study aimed to develop and evaluate Movement Poomasi, a hybrid digital healthcare application designed to promote physical activity, improve digital accessibility, and strengthen social connectedness among older adults. Methods: From March 2023 to November 2023, Movement Poomasi was developed through an iterative user-centered design process involving domain experts in physical therapy and sports psychology. In this study, the term UI/UX—short for user interface and user experience—refers to the overall design and interaction framework of the application, encompassing visual layout, navigation flow, accessibility features, and user engagement optimization tailored to older adults’ sensory, cognitive, and motor characteristics. The application integrates adaptive exercise modules, senior-optimized UI/UX, voice-assisted navigation, and peer-interaction features to enable both home-based and in-person movement engagement. A two-phase usability validation was conducted. A 4-week pilot test with 15 older adults assessed the prototype, followed by a formal 6-week study with 50 participants (≥65 years), stratified by digital literacy and activity background. Quantitative metrics—movement completion rates, session duration, and engagement with social features—were analyzed alongside semi-structured interviews. Statistical analysis included ANOVA and regression to examine usability and engagement outcomes. The application has continued iterative testing and refinement until May 2025, and it is scheduled for re-launch under the name Wello! in August 2025. Results: Post-implementation UI refinements significantly increased navigation success rates (from 68% to 87%, p = 0.042). ANOVA revealed that movement selection and peer-interaction tasks posed greater cognitive load (p < 0.01). A strong positive correlation was found between digital literacy and task performance (r = 0.68, p < 0.05). Weekly participation increased by 38%, with 81% of participants reporting enhanced social connectedness through group challenges and hybrid peer-led meetups. Despite high satisfaction scores (mean 4.6 ± 0.4), usability challenges remained among low-literacy users, indicating the need for further interface simplification. Conclusions: The findings underscore the potential of hybrid digital platforms tailored to older adults’ physical, cognitive, and social needs. Movement Poomasi demonstrates scalable feasibility and contributes to reducing the digital divide while fostering active aging. Future directions include AI-assisted onboarding, adaptive tutorials, and expanded integration with community care ecosystems to enhance long-term engagement and inclusivity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Technologies for Person-Centred Healthcare)
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20 pages, 678 KB  
Article
Feasibility and Preliminary Efficacy of Wearable Focal Vibration Therapy on Gait and Mobility in People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Pilot Study
by Hongwu Wang, Yun Chan Shin, Nicole J. Tester and Torge Rempe
Bioengineering 2025, 12(9), 932; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering12090932 - 29 Aug 2025
Viewed by 228
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease of the central nervous system that significantly impairs gait and mobility, contributing to a high risk of falls, reduced participation in daily activities, and diminished quality of life. Despite existing interventions such as exercise programs and [...] Read more.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease of the central nervous system that significantly impairs gait and mobility, contributing to a high risk of falls, reduced participation in daily activities, and diminished quality of life. Despite existing interventions such as exercise programs and pharmacological treatments, challenges such as fatigue, pain, and limited accessibility underscore the need for alternative therapies. Focal vibration therapy (FVT) has shown promise in improving gait, reducing spasticity, and enhancing mobility in people with MS (PwMS). However, further research is required to evaluate its long-term feasibility and optimize its parameters. This study examined the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a home-based four-week wearable FVT device on gait and explored how FVT parameters impact gait and mobility outcomes. In this pilot double-blind randomized controlled trial, 22 PwMS were randomized into control and vibration groups (four FVT groups with varying vibration intensities/durations). Participants wore Myovolt® vibrators on distal quadricep muscles near the rectus femoris insertion (approximately 2 cm from the medial edge of the patella), gastrocnemius/soleus, and tibialis anterior muscles (10 min/muscle, 3 days/week, 4 weeks). Feasibility was evaluated via adherence and satisfaction (QUEST 2.0, interviews). Gait (3D motion analysis) and mobility (T25FW) were assessed at baseline and post-intervention. Data were analyzed using descriptive/inferential statistics and thematic analysis. Of 22 participants, 17 completed post-intervention (16 intervention, 1 control). Wearable FVT showed promising feasibility, with high satisfaction despite minor adjustability issues. Intervention groups improved gait speed (p = 0.014), stride length (p = 0.004), and ankle angle (p = 0.043), but T25FW was unchanged (p > 0.05). High-intensity FVT enhanced knee/hip moments. This study’s results support the feasibility of wearable FVT for home-based management of mobility symptoms in MS with high participant satisfaction and acceptance. Notable gains in gait parameters suggest FVT’s potential to enhance neuromuscular control and proprioception but may be insufficient to lead to mobility improvements. Subgroup analyses highlighted the impact of vibration intensity and duration on knee joint mechanics, emphasizing the need for personalized dosing strategies. Challenges included participant retention in the control group and burdensome biomechanical assessments, which will be addressed in future studies through improved sham devices and a larger sample size. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanics and Motion Analysis)
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47 pages, 1148 KB  
Review
Burnout and the Brain—A Mechanistic Review of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Studies
by James Chmiel and Donata Kurpas
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(17), 8379; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26178379 - 28 Aug 2025
Viewed by 550
Abstract
Occupational burnout is ubiquitous yet still debated as a disease entity. Previous reviews surveyed multiple biomarkers but left their neural substrate unclear. We therefore asked: What, if any, reproducible magnetic-resonance signature characterises burnout? Following PRISMA principles adapted for mechanistic synthesis, two reviewers searched [...] Read more.
Occupational burnout is ubiquitous yet still debated as a disease entity. Previous reviews surveyed multiple biomarkers but left their neural substrate unclear. We therefore asked: What, if any, reproducible magnetic-resonance signature characterises burnout? Following PRISMA principles adapted for mechanistic synthesis, two reviewers searched PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, ResearchGate and Cochrane from January 2000 to May 2025 using “MRI/fMRI” AND “burnout”. After duplicate removal and multi-stage screening, 17 clinical studies met predefined inclusion criteria (English language, MRI outcomes, validated burnout diagnosis). In total, ≈1365 participants were scanned, 880 with clinically significant burnout and 470 controls. Uniform Maslach Burnout Inventory thresholds defined cases; most studies matched age and sex, and all excluded primary neurological disease. Structural morphometry (8/17 studies) revealed consistent amygdala enlargement—predominantly in women—and grey-matter loss in dorsolateral/ventromedial prefrontal cortex and striatal caudate–putamen, while hippocampal volume remained unaffected, distinguishing burnout from PTSD or depression. Resting-state and task fMRI (9/17 studies) showed fronto-cortical hyper-activation, weakened amygdala–ACC coupling, and progressive fragmentation of rich-club networks, collectively indicating compensatory executive overdrive and global inefficiency. Two longitudinal cohorts and several intervention sub-studies demonstrated partial reversal of cortical thinning and limbic hyper-reactivity after mindfulness, exercise, cognitive-behavioural therapy, neurofeedback, or rTMS, underscoring plasticity. Across heterogeneous paradigms and populations, MRI converges on a coherent, sex-modulated but reversible brain-networkopathy that satisfies objective disease criteria. These findings justify early neuro-imaging-based triage, circuit-targeted therapy, and formal nosological recognition of burnout as a mental disorder, with policy ramifications for occupational health and insurance parity. Full article
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14 pages, 845 KB  
Hypothesis
Resolving the Personalisation Agenda in Psychological Therapy Through a Biomedical Approach
by Jeremy Seymour
BioMed 2025, 5(3), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomed5030019 - 22 Aug 2025
Viewed by 331
Abstract
Background/Objectives—The personalisation agenda—matching the correct psychological therapy to diverse and comorbid mental disorders—is an unanswered dilemma in the worldwide literature which has far reaching consequences for public health. This hypothesis article addresses the question: can a biomedical approach resolve the personalisation agenda? Methods—Narrative [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives—The personalisation agenda—matching the correct psychological therapy to diverse and comorbid mental disorders—is an unanswered dilemma in the worldwide literature which has far reaching consequences for public health. This hypothesis article addresses the question: can a biomedical approach resolve the personalisation agenda? Methods—Narrative review drawing on clinical psychology, translational psychiatry, and biomedical science literature. Results—Diverse attempts to resolve the personalisation agenda have not yet succeeded. Randomised controlled trials are uniquely biased due to unwanted placebo effects; network meta-analysis cannot address adequately which psychological therapy to use; new methodologies have not yet produced data; and neuroscientific analysis cannot yet explain how trauma-based therapies work. However, a biomedical model which divides psychological therapy into low, medium and high intensity interventions can resolve the personalisation agenda. Conclusions—Combining low intensity (placebo), with medium intensity (cognitive behavioural techniques) and high intensity interventions (trauma-based therapies) are theoretically synergistic if combined with psychosocial treatments/exercise, and used in sequence in the correct order. A biomedical model based on recent advances in placebo studies and neuroplasticity can resolve the personalisation agenda, and improve outcomes for mental disorder. Full article
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17 pages, 2237 KB  
Protocol
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of a Cardiac Telerehabilitation Program in Chronic Heart Failure: Design and Rationale of the TELEREHAB-HF Study
by Marina Garofano, Carmine Vecchione, Mariaconsiglia Calabrese, Maria Rosaria Rusciano, Valeria Visco, Giovanni Granata, Albino Carrizzo, Gennaro Galasso, Placido Bramanti, Francesco Corallo, Lucia Pepe, Luana Budaci, Michele Ciccarelli and Alessia Bramanti
Healthcare 2025, 13(16), 2074; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13162074 - 21 Aug 2025
Viewed by 550
Abstract
Background: Despite strong guideline recommendations, participation in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) among patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) remains low due to logistical, geographical, and psychosocial barriers. Telerehabilitation may help overcome these limitations by offering remote, structured exercise programs supported by digital technologies. Objective: [...] Read more.
Background: Despite strong guideline recommendations, participation in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) among patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) remains low due to logistical, geographical, and psychosocial barriers. Telerehabilitation may help overcome these limitations by offering remote, structured exercise programs supported by digital technologies. Objective: The TELEREHAB-HF study aims to evaluate the efficacy of an 8-week, home-based cardiac telerehabilitation program compared to standard in-person rehabilitation in patients with CHF. Methods: This is a prospective, controlled cohort study involving 220 adult patients with CHF (NYHA class I–III) clinically stable and on optimized therapy. Participants are assigned to either a telerehabilitation group (remote CR via a digital platform with wearable sensors and real-time physiotherapist supervision) or a standard in-person rehabilitation group. The primary outcome is the change in peak oxygen uptake (VO2max) at 8 weeks. Secondary outcomes include quality of life, functional performance, biochemical and echocardiographic parameters, and cognitive function, assessed at baseline and at 4, 8, 16, and 24 weeks. Expected Results: We hypothesize that telerehabilitation will be non-inferior to standard CR in improving functional capacity and secondary outcomes, with additional benefits in accessibility and adherence. Data from remote monitoring may also support a translational “rehabilomics” approach to exploring exercise-induced biomarker changes. Conclusions: This study seeks to assess the clinical effectiveness, safety, and feasibility of a home-based telerehabilitation model for CHF, with the goal of informing future strategies for broader implementation and personalized rehabilitation. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT07023536 Full article
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29 pages, 688 KB  
Review
Heart Failure Readmission Prevention Strategies—A Comparative Review of Medications, Devices, and Other Interventions
by Remzi Oguz Baris and Corey E. Tabit
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(16), 5894; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14165894 - 21 Aug 2025
Viewed by 568
Abstract
Heart failure readmissions remain a major challenge for healthcare systems, contributing significantly to morbidity, mortality, and increased healthcare costs. Despite advancements in medical and device-based therapies, rehospitalization rates remain high, particularly within the first 30 days of discharge. This review aims to evaluate [...] Read more.
Heart failure readmissions remain a major challenge for healthcare systems, contributing significantly to morbidity, mortality, and increased healthcare costs. Despite advancements in medical and device-based therapies, rehospitalization rates remain high, particularly within the first 30 days of discharge. This review aims to evaluate the primary factors associated with HF readmissions and discuss evidence-based strategies to reduce these rates. The review examines the efficacy of pharmacological therapies and their impact on readmission rates, highlighting key interventions such as diuretics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, ARNIs, SGLT2 inhibitors, and intravenous iron supplementation. Additionally, device-based interventions, including CardioMEMS, LVADs, CRT-P/D, ICDs, Furoscix, and the ReDS vest, are critically evaluated for their role in the early detection and management of decompensation. Non-pharmacological strategies are also underscored, such as dietary modifications, exercise, cardiac rehabilitation, and structured follow-up programs. By synthesizing current evidence, this review provides a comprehensive analysis of heart failure readmission factors and proposes multidisciplinary, patient-centered strategies to improve outcomes and reduce hospitalizations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Management of Patients with Heart Failure—2nd Edition)
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14 pages, 1900 KB  
Article
Implementation of a Hybrid Cardiac Rehabilitation and Symptom Scoring System in Patients with Inappropriate or Postural Sinus Tachycardia Referred for Sinus Node Sparing Hybrid Ablation
by Marta Kornaszewska, Aleksandra Wilczek-Banc, Anna Ratajska, Ewa Piotrowicz, Bartosz Szkaradek, Mariusz Kowalewski, Piotr Suwalski, Natalia Ogorzelec, Antoni Wileczek, Magdalena Zając, Michał Pastyrzak and Sebastian Stec
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(16), 5879; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14165879 - 20 Aug 2025
Viewed by 419
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Patients with inappropriate sinus tachycardia (IST) and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) exhibit complex clinical profiles due to autonomic dysfunction. While sinus node sparing (SNS) hybrid ablation is emerging as a promising therapy, there are no established guidelines worldwide for post-procedure [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Patients with inappropriate sinus tachycardia (IST) and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) exhibit complex clinical profiles due to autonomic dysfunction. While sinus node sparing (SNS) hybrid ablation is emerging as a promising therapy, there are no established guidelines worldwide for post-procedure patient management and care is mainly based on telemonitoring. In contrast, our hybrid cardiac rehabilitation (HCR) program integrates inpatient care and home-based telerehabilitation. We aim to evaluate the implementation of the HCR program, patient acceptance and adherence, and the effectiveness of the Malmö POTS scoring system in monitoring disease progression and rehabilitation outcomes. Methods: Patients underwent a personalized HCR program after SNS. The program included early mobilization, psychological support, respiratory therapy, and structured exercise. Clinical outcomes were assessed using symptom burden (Malmö POTS score), ECG parameters, exercise duration, perceived exertion, and rehabilitation adherence. Results: All patients completed the inpatient phase, and 87% completed the home-based phase. In the early postoperative period, pericarditis, anemia, and benign rhythm disturbances were mild and self-limiting. The Malmö POTS score decreased from 65.3 to 25.7. Lower perceived exertion early in the program correlated with clinical improvement. At the 2-month follow-up, 81% of patients no longer met the clinical criteria for IST/POTS without the use of medications. The program was evaluated as safe, feasible, and well-tolerated, with high patient satisfaction. Conclusions: A well-organized hybrid cardiac rehabilitation program after SNS is feasible, safe, and well-tolerated in IST/POTS patients. The Malmö POTS score may support outcome monitoring. The integration of individualized training and telemedicine represents a promising development for patients post-SNS ablation. While this study demonstrates feasibility and potential benefits, further controlled studies are needed to evaluate its impact on long-term recovery and symptom control. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Clinical Advances in Cardiac Rehabilitation)
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17 pages, 511 KB  
Systematic Review
Effects of Exercise-Based Rehabilitation on Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease: A Systematic Review
by Shirin Aali, Farhad Rezazadeh, Fariborz Imani, Mahsa Nabati Sefidekhan, Georgian Badicu, Luca Poli, Francesco Fischetti, Stefania Cataldi and Gianpiero Greco
Healthcare 2025, 13(15), 1938; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13151938 - 7 Aug 2025
Viewed by 1284
Abstract
Background: This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of rehabilitation-focused exercise interventions for lumbar degenerative disc disease (DDD), a leading cause of chronic low back pain. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted across international and regional databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of [...] Read more.
Background: This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of rehabilitation-focused exercise interventions for lumbar degenerative disc disease (DDD), a leading cause of chronic low back pain. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted across international and regional databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Magiran, SID, and Noormags) covering the period from January 2010 to January 2025. The review protocol was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) under registration number CRD420251088811. Using keywords such as “lumbar DDD,” “exercise therapy,” and “rehabilitation,” a total of 2495 records were identified. After screening, 20 studies—including clinical trials, quasi-experimental, and experimental designs—met the inclusion criteria and were assessed using the McMaster Critical Review Form for Quantitative Studies. Results: Interventions such as hydrotherapy, core stability training, Pilates, and suspension exercises were found to significantly reduce pain and improve functional outcomes. While multimodal approaches (e.g., aquatic exercise combined with acupuncture) showed positive effects, the comparative studies revealed no significant differences between modalities. Suspension training demonstrated superior efficacy in pain reduction compared to isolated core stability exercises. The methodological quality of included studies ranged from good to excellent, with the majority rated as very good or excellent (McMaster scores: 8 “excellent,” 7 “very good,” and 5 “good”). Common limitations among the studies included methodological heterogeneity, small sample sizes (n = 14–30), and insufficient long-term follow-up. Conclusions: Exercise-based rehabilitation is an effective strategy for managing lumbar DDD. Evidence particularly supports the use of suspension training and aquatic therapy for superior improvements in pain and functional outcomes. Future research should aim to adopt standardized protocols, recruit larger sample sizes, and include extended follow-up periods to produce more robust and generalizable findings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exercise Biomechanics: Pathways to Improve Health)
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17 pages, 475 KB  
Review
The Rationale and Explanation for Rehabilitation Interventions in the Management of Treatment-Induced Trismus in People with Head and Neck Cancer: A Scoping Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
by Ernesto Anarte-Lazo, Ana Bravo-Vazquez, Carlos Bernal-Utrera, Daniel Torres-Lagares, Deborah Falla and Cleofas Rodríguez-Blanco
Medicina 2025, 61(8), 1392; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61081392 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 978
Abstract
Background and objectives: Trismus is a frequent and debilitating complication in people with head and neck cancer (HNC) which leads to significant functional limitations and reduced quality of life. Rehabilitation interventions are commonly recommended to manage or prevent trismus. However, in many [...] Read more.
Background and objectives: Trismus is a frequent and debilitating complication in people with head and neck cancer (HNC) which leads to significant functional limitations and reduced quality of life. Rehabilitation interventions are commonly recommended to manage or prevent trismus. However, in many randomized controlled trials (RCTs), the theoretical justification for these interventions is poorly articulated, and the underlying biological or physiological mechanisms are not described in detail, limiting our understanding of why certain treatments may (or may not) work. This review aimed to identify and analyze how RCTs report the rationale for rehabilitation interventions and the explanations used to manage this population. Materials and Methods: A scoping review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Five databases (PubMed, PEDro, Web of Science, Scopus, and EMBASE) were searched up to May 2025 for RCTs evaluating rehabilitation interventions for the management or prevention of treatment-induced trismus in patients with HNC. Data were extracted and synthesized narratively, focusing on the type of intervention, the rationale for its use, and the proposed mechanisms of action. Results: Of 2215 records identified, 24 RCTs met the inclusion criteria. Thirteen studies focused on preventive interventions—primarily exercise therapy—while the remainder addressed established trismus using exercise, manual therapy, electrotherapy, or combined treatment modalities. The rationales provided for intervention selection were heterogeneous and often lacked depth, with most studies justifying interventions based on their potential to improve mouth opening or reduce fibrosis but rarely grounding these claims in detailed pathophysiological models. Only half of the studies provided any mechanistic explanation for the intervention’s effects, and these were typically generic or speculative. Conclusions: RCTs investigating rehabilitation interventions for treatment-induced trismus in patients with HNC frequently lack comprehensive rationales and mechanistic explanations for their interventions. This gap limits the ability to refine and optimize treatment approaches, as the underlying processes driving clinical improvements remain poorly understood. Future research should be guided by theoretical models and include objective outcomes to better elucidate the mechanisms of action of interventions to inform clinical practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Head and Neck Cancer Management)
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12 pages, 418 KB  
Article
Sarcopenia as a Prognostic Factor for Critical Limb Ischemia: A Prospective Cohort Study
by Paula Luque-Linero, Emilio-Javier Frutos-Reoyo, Luis Castilla-Guerra, Miguel-Ángel Rico-Corral, Prado Salamanca-Bautista and Fernando Garrachón-Vallo
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5388; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155388 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 495
Abstract
Introduction and Aim: Sarcopenia has emerged as a key prognostic factor in patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI), with potential implications for clinical decision-making. This study aimed to assess the association between sarcopenia and clinical outcomes, mortality, and amputation, using simple, accessible screening [...] Read more.
Introduction and Aim: Sarcopenia has emerged as a key prognostic factor in patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI), with potential implications for clinical decision-making. This study aimed to assess the association between sarcopenia and clinical outcomes, mortality, and amputation, using simple, accessible screening tools in a CLTI population. Methods: In this prospective, single-center study conducted between December 2023 and December 2024, 170 patients with CTLI were enrolled. Sarcopenia screening was performed using the SARC-F (strength, assistance in walking, rising from a chair, climbing stairs, falls) questionnaires, handgrip strength measurement, and calf circumference, adjusted for body mass index and sex. The primary outcome was 6-month all-cause mortality and/or major amputation. Results: Sarcopenia was identified in 77 patients (45.3%). Compared to non-sarcopenic individuals, sarcopenic patients were significantly older. They exhibited greater functional impairment, as well as poorer nutritional and muscle status. They also had significantly higher in-hospital mortality (16.9% vs. 3.2%, p = 0.002), 30-day mortality (24.7% vs. 4.3%, p = 0.001), and 6-month mortality (50.6% vs. 15.1%, p = 0.001). Sarcopenia was significantly associated with the primary outcome in univariate analysis (HR: 2.05; 95% CI: 1.31–3.20; p = 0.002) and remained an independent predictor after multivariate adjustment (HR: 1.95; 95% CI: 1.01–3.79; p = 0.048). Conclusions: Sarcopenia is a strong, independent predictor of poor outcome in patients with CLTI. Its detection through simple tools offers an easy and cost-effective strategy to improve risk stratification and guide early intervention through exercise-based therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Rehabilitation)
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13 pages, 1775 KB  
Review
Integrating Physical Activity and Artificial Intelligence in Burn Rehabilitation: Muscle Recovery and Body Image Restoration
by Vasiliki J. Malliou, George Pafis, Christos Katsikas and Spyridon Plakias
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8323; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158323 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 519
Abstract
Burn injuries result in complex physiological and psychological sequelae, including hypermetabolism, muscle wasting, mobility impairment, scarring, and disrupted body image. While advances in acute care have improved survival, comprehensive rehabilitation strategies are critical for restoring function, appearance, and psychosocial well-being. Structured physical activity, [...] Read more.
Burn injuries result in complex physiological and psychological sequelae, including hypermetabolism, muscle wasting, mobility impairment, scarring, and disrupted body image. While advances in acute care have improved survival, comprehensive rehabilitation strategies are critical for restoring function, appearance, and psychosocial well-being. Structured physical activity, including resistance and aerobic training, plays a central role in counteracting muscle atrophy, improving cardiovascular function, enhancing scar quality, and promoting psychological resilience and body image restoration. This narrative review synthesizes the current evidence on the effects of exercise-based interventions on post-burn recovery, highlighting their therapeutic mechanisms, clinical applications, and implementation challenges. In addition to physical training, emerging technologies such as virtual reality, aquatic therapy, and compression garments offer promising adjunctive benefits. Notably, artificial intelligence (AI) is gaining traction in burn rehabilitation through its integration into wearable biosensors and telehealth platforms that enable real-time monitoring, individualized feedback, and predictive modeling of recovery outcomes. These AI-driven tools have the potential to personalize exercise regimens, support remote care, and enhance scar assessment and wound tracking. Overall, the integration of exercise-based interventions with digital technologies represents a promising, multimodal approach to burn recovery. Future research should focus on optimizing exercise prescriptions, improving access to personalized rehabilitation tools, and advancing AI-enabled systems to support long-term recovery, functional independence, and positive self-perception among burn survivors. Full article
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24 pages, 831 KB  
Systematic Review
Pulmonary Telerehabilitation in COPD Patients: A Systematic Review to Analyse Patients’ Adherence
by Pauline Aubrat, Eloïse Albert, Melvin Perreaux, Veronica Rossi, Raphael Martins de Abreu and Camilo Corbellini
Healthcare 2025, 13(15), 1818; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13151818 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 838
Abstract
Introduction: Limited access to pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) has contributed to the rise of telerehabilitation (TPR) for COPD patients. Positive comparable effects are observed in exercise tolerance, quality of life (QoL), and dyspnoea with TPR. However, patient adherence to TPR is an outcome [...] Read more.
Introduction: Limited access to pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) has contributed to the rise of telerehabilitation (TPR) for COPD patients. Positive comparable effects are observed in exercise tolerance, quality of life (QoL), and dyspnoea with TPR. However, patient adherence to TPR is an outcome that has not been sufficiently analysed. Objective: To analyse adherence, satisfaction, and quality-of-life improvements in COPD patients following the TPR program to determine whether telerehabilitation is comparable to conventional therapy or usual care. Methods: A systematic search was conducted using four electronic databases, retrieving 392 articles. Two independent researchers selected and evaluated these articles based on predefined eligibility criteria. A third researcher was consulted in the event of disagreements. Results: Primary outcomes: Adherence to PR and/or usual care showed a minimum reported value of 62% and a maximum reported value of 91%, while TPR adherence had the lowest reported value of 21% and the highest reported value of 93.5%. Five articles compared TPR to PR and/or usual care, showing that TPR adherence is higher or similar to other interventions, whereas only one article found lower TPR adherence compared to PR. Secondary outcomes: A higher number of dropouts were reported for PR and usual care compared to TPR. Three publications analysed satisfaction and demonstrated that patients are satisfied across groups. Tertiary outcomes: Comparable improvements in QoL were found for TPR and PR, both being superior to usual care. Conclusions: This systematic review reveals heterogeneity in classifying adherence for pulmonary rehabilitation and telerehabilitation. Adherence classification may be standardised in future studies for consistent analysis. Full article
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22 pages, 1839 KB  
Article
Development of a Clinical Guideline for Managing Knee Osteoarthritis in Portugal: A Physiotherapist-Centered Approach
by Ricardo Maia Ferreira and Rui Soles Gonçalves
Osteology 2025, 5(3), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/osteology5030023 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 820
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most significant diseases globally and in Portugal. Despite the availability of international guidelines, there is a lack of tailored, evidence-based recommendations specifically for Portuguese physiotherapists to manage their knee osteoarthritis patients with non-pharmacological and non-surgical [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most significant diseases globally and in Portugal. Despite the availability of international guidelines, there is a lack of tailored, evidence-based recommendations specifically for Portuguese physiotherapists to manage their knee osteoarthritis patients with non-pharmacological and non-surgical interventions. This study aimed to develop a clinical practice guideline that integrates the latest international evidence with local clinical practice data to enhance patient outcomes. Methods: To achieve the objective, a comprehensive search was conducted in November 2024 across major health-related databases, to identify robust and recent evidence regarding the efficacy of non-pharmacological and non-surgical interventions, as well as their usage in the national context. Two key sources were identified: An umbrella and a mixed-methods study. Data from both sources were independently reviewed and integrated through a comparative analysis to identify interventions with robust scientific support and high local acceptability. Recommendations were then formulated and categorized into gold (strong), silver (moderate), and bronze (weak) levels based on evidence quality and clinical relevance. A decision-making flowchart was developed to support guideline implementation and clinical usage. Results: The integrated analysis identified three gold-level interventions, namely Nutrition/Weight Loss, Resistance Exercise, and Self-care/Education. Five silver-level recommendations were Aerobic Exercise, Balneology/Spa, Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy, Electrical Stimulation, and Manual Therapy. Similarly, five bronze-level recommendations comprised Kinesio Taping, Stretching, Ultrasound Therapy, Thermal Agents, and Walking Aids. Conclusions: This clinical practice guideline provides a context-specific, evidence-based framework for Portuguese physiotherapists managing knee osteoarthritis. By bridging international evidence with local clinical practice, the guideline aims to facilitate optimal patient care and inform future research and guideline updates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Bone and Cartilage Diseases)
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16 pages, 1503 KB  
Study Protocol
Effect of a Peripheral Neuromodulation Protocol Combined with the Application of Therapeutic Exercise in Patients Diagnosed with Urinary Incontinence—A Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
by Jesica Leal-García, Paula Blanco-Giménez, Eloy Jaenada-Carrillero, Marta Martínez-Soler, Borja Huertas-Ramírez, Alex Mahiques-Sanchis and Juan Vicente-Mampel
Healthcare 2025, 13(14), 1759; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13141759 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 490
Abstract
Introduction: Overactive bladder (OAB) and urinary incontinence (UI) are prevalent, particularly in older adults, and affect quality of life. OAB involves urgency, frequency, nocturia, and urgency incontinence, often linked to involuntary detrusor contractions. Treatment guidelines recommend a stepwise approach, starting with pelvic floor [...] Read more.
Introduction: Overactive bladder (OAB) and urinary incontinence (UI) are prevalent, particularly in older adults, and affect quality of life. OAB involves urgency, frequency, nocturia, and urgency incontinence, often linked to involuntary detrusor contractions. Treatment guidelines recommend a stepwise approach, starting with pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT), followed by pharmacological or minimally invasive therapies, such as neuromodulation. However, the combined effects of PFMT and neuromodulation have not been well established. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of combining pelvic floor exercises with neuromodulation versus PFMT with sham neuromodulation or standard physiotherapy after a 12-week intervention in individuals with OAB and UI. Methods/Materials: A double-blind, randomized controlled trial was designed with three groups: PFMT + neuromodulation, PFMT + sham, and conventional physiotherapy (control) in a 1:1:1 ratio. This study followed the CONSORT guidelines and was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06783374). The sample size was calculated using GPower® software, assuming a Cohen’s effect size of 1.04, a power of 0.80, an alpha of 0.05, and a 15% dropout rate, totaling 63 participants (21 per group). Participants attended 24 sessions over 12 weeks (2 sessions per week). The interventions were based on previously validated protocols. Outcomes: The primary outcomes included health-related quality of life, pelvic floor muscle function, pain, adherence, and general health. The secondary outcomes included Incontinence Quality of Life questionnaire, 3-day bladder diary, International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire–Urinary Incontinence Short Form, kinesiophobia, and electromyographic data. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pelvic Floor Health and Care)
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