Tarek Elgohary

Partial versus full range of back extension endurance testing using the swiss ball in discogenic low back pain patients : a comparative study

Abstract Background and aim: Decreased back extensor muscles endurance is the most common significant finding in patients with discogenic low back pain (DLBP). The aim of this study was to determine whether the holding time at partial range of motion (ROM) is different from full ROM during back extension endurance testing. Methods: Fifty consecutive chronic DLBP patients (35 males, 15 females) aged between 25 and 65 years were recruited using a purposive sample. First, pain, back disability and sagittal mobility were measured to establish eligibility. Second, back extension endurance holding time was tested by measuring back extension on the Swiss ball at partial and full ROM. Results: The mean holding time, in seconds, for first partial and first full back extension was 20.9 (SD = 12.7) and13.2 (SD = 9.8) (p < 0.001), respectively. The mean holding time for second partial and second full back extension was 22.1 (SD = 16.1) and 14.6 (SD = 10.2) (p < 0.001), respectively. The holding time was analysed using paired-sample t-test. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICCs) for partial and full back extension endurance testing was 0.93 and 0.96, respectively. Conclusion: The patients had increased holding time when back extension endurance testing was performed at partial as opposed to full range of motion.

Post-traumatic cervical anterolisthesis: Comprehensive evaluation and expert opinion based on clinical reasoning and clinical judgment skills

This case report details the case of a 31-year-old male clerk who complained of widespread pain that significantly limited his daily work. The patient underwent some physical therapy sessions, but unfortunately, the results were unsatisfactory. An expert in the field with distinguished experience was called to evaluate the patient using a new systematic approach. Comprehensive whole body evaluation was conducted using a total assessment-reassessment & evaluation using biokinesiologic (TAREK) approach. This approach is aimed at guiding physical therapists and rehabilitation professionals in conducting comprehensive evaluations, particularly for complex neuromusculoskeletal cases. The expert used the TAREK approach to address the patient; persistent symptoms. The systematic approach not only enables comprehensive evaluation but also guides junior therapists in implementing physical therapy interventions. The study suggests that complex neuromusculoskeletal cases need to be thoroughly evaluated by highly trained therapists using the systematic approach.

Biodex balance training versus conventional balance training for children with spastic diplegia

Objective The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of balance training using the Biodex balance system and a conventional balance training programme on balance score and on gross motor skills of children with spastic diplegia. Methods A randomized controlled study was conducted on 48 spastic diplegic children with cerebral palsy (26 boys and 22 girls) in the age range of 5–8 years. The children were randomly allocated to two equal groups. The investigators performed balance and gross motor function assessments for every child using the paediatric Berg balance scale and the gross motor function measure −88 scale (dimensions D and E) before and after the treatment programme. Passive repositioning sense was measured by a Biodex III isokinetic dynamometer. The study group received Biodex balance training and traditional physical therapy programme training, whereas the control group received conventional balance training in addition to the traditional physical therapy programme training, 3 times per week for 12 weeks. Results Significant improvement was observed in all outcome measures of the two groups, comparing their pre- and post-treatment mean values. Furthermore, the results revealed a significant (P < 0.05) improvement in mean post-treatment values for the Biodex balance training group. Conclusion Balance training using the Biodex balance system is superior to conventional balance training for improving the balance abilities and gross motor functions of children with cerebral palsy and spastic diplegia.

Bruininks- Oseretsky Test Showed Strong Correlation Between Upper Limb Speed Dexterity and Upper Limb Coordination

Background: Daily living activities such as walking, dressing and feeding require adequate proficiency in gross and fine motor skills; however inadequate proficiency leads to multiple difficulties that range from increased anxiety and poor self-esteem to significant difficulties with academic achievements. Recent research findings claimed that children’s skill proficiency tends to lag behind the established developmental norms. Purpose: The aim of this study was to examine the interrelationship among different subtests of gross and fine motor skill in school aged children in Al-Madinah Al-Munawara. Methods: Children (N= 99) from 2nd, 3rd and 4th grades completed the gross and fine motor composite of the Bruininks- Oseretsky Test of motor proficiency 2nd Edition (BOT-2). Results: Analysis revealed a weak correlation between gross motor composite and fine motor composite. A weak correlation was found for gross motor subtests except a significant correlation was found for the relationship between balance and bilateral coordination. Conclusion: Therapists should closely look at upper limb speed dexterity and upper limb coordination since they are significantly correlated.