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Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Trends and Applications—3rd Edition
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Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Trends and Applications—3rd Edition

A special issue of Life (ISSN 2075-1729). This special issue belongs to the section "Epidemiology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 March 2025) | Viewed by 14912

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Li-Wei Chou

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Guest Editor
1. Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
2. Department of Physical Therapy and Graduate Institute of Rehabilitation Science, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
3. Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Asia University Hospital, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan
Interests: pain management; dry needling; acupuncture; myofascial pain; robotic rehabilitation; neurorehabilitation; physical modality; orthosis
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Jiunn-Horng Kang

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Guest Editor
1. Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 110301, Taiwan
2. College of Biomedical Engineering, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031 Taiwan
Interests: AI in medicine; pain medicine; neuromodulation; assistive technology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Krisna Piravej

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Guest Editor
Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Interests: neurorehabilitation, robotic rehabilitation, tele-rehabilitation, musculoskeletal pain, clinical neurophysiolog
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Karen Sui Geok Chua

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Guest Editor
Centre of Rehabilitation Excellence, Tan Tock Seng Hospital Rehabilitation Centre, Singapore 569766, Singapore
Interests: neurorehabilitation; brain injury rehabilitation; robotic aided rehabilitation; telerehabilitation
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleague,

Physical medicine and rehabilitation are broad medical fields that include the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases; the improvement in human quality of life; and the overcoming of or reduction in handicaps. The clinical effects of rehabilitation are well known, and the positive outcomes have been widely reported in the literature. However, the basic research and variations related to rehabilitation programs deserve specific in-depth analyses. Clinical and basic research can elucidate the possible mechanisms of physical medicine and rehabilitation interventions, and can be applied in planning rehabilitation projects, measuring patient improvement after the administration of rehabilitation programs, and defining forecasting and organizational models. In this Special Issue, we welcome the submission of original articles and reviews focusing on the latest developments following theoretical, experimental, and clinical investigations into physical medicine and rehabilitation for physiatrists and rehabilitation researchers.

Dr. Li-Wei Chou
Prof. Dr. Jiunn-Horng Kang
Dr. Krisna Piravej
Prof. Dr. Karen Sui Geok Chua
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Life is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • clinical physical medicine and rehabilitation
  • neurorehabilitation
  • cardiopulmonary rehabilitation
  • orthopedic rehabilitation
  • pediatric rehabilitation
  • geriatric rehabilitation
  • cancer rehabilitation
  • musculoskeletal pain management
  • physical therapy
  • occupational therapy
  • speech and swallowing therapy

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Related Special Issues

Published Papers (12 papers)

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Research

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13 pages, 1987 KiB  
Article
Automatic Detect Incorrect Lifting Posture with the Pose Estimation Model
by Gee-Sern Jison Hsu, Jie Syuan Wu, Yin-Kai Dean Huang, Chun-Chieh Chiu and Jiunn-Horng Kang
Life 2025, 15(3), 358; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15030358 - 24 Feb 2025
Viewed by 714
Abstract
Background: Occupational low back pain (LBP) is a pervasive health issue that significantly impacts productivity and contributes to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Inadequate lifting postures are a primary, modifiable risk factor associated with LBP, making early detection of unsafe practices crucial to mitigating [...] Read more.
Background: Occupational low back pain (LBP) is a pervasive health issue that significantly impacts productivity and contributes to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Inadequate lifting postures are a primary, modifiable risk factor associated with LBP, making early detection of unsafe practices crucial to mitigating occupational injuries. Our study aims to address these limitations by developing a markerless, smartphone-based camera system integrated with a deep learning model capable of accurately classifying lifting postures. Material and Method: We recruited 50 healthy adults who participated in lifting tasks using correct and incorrect postures to build a robust dataset. Participants lifted boxes of varying sizes and weights while their movements were recorded from multiple angles and heights to ensure comprehensive data capture. We used the OpenPose algorithm to detect and extract key body points to calculate relevant biomechanical features. These extracted features served as inputs to a bidirectional long short-term memory (LSTM) model, which classified lifting postures into correct and incorrect categories. Results: Our model demonstrated high classification accuracy across all datasets, with accuracy rates of 96.9% for Tr, 95.6% for the testing set, and 94.4% for training. We observed that environmental factors, such as camera angle and height, slightly influenced the model’s accuracy, particularly in scenarios where the subject’s posture partially occluded key body points. Nonetheless, these variations were minor, confirming the robustness of our system across different conditions. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of a smartphone camera and AI-based system for lifting posture classification. The system’s high accuracy, low setup cost, and ease of deployment make it a promising tool for enhancing workplace ergonomics. This approach highlights the potential of artificial intelligence to improve occupational safety and underscores the relevance of affordable, scalable solutions in the pursuit of healthier workplaces. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Trends and Applications—3rd Edition)
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10 pages, 506 KiB  
Article
Cohort-Based Evaluation of the Risk of Low Back Pain After Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Long-Term Study
by Francisco José Gallego-Peñalver, Armando Chaure-Pardos, Silvia Beatriz Romero-de-la-Higuera and Eva María Gómez-Trullén
Life 2025, 15(2), 248; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15020248 - 6 Feb 2025
Viewed by 825
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) is a potential complication after total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, some studies suggest that THA not only alleviates joint pain but also resolves LBP in up to 88.2% of patients. Most of these observations are limited to short-term follow-ups. [...] Read more.
Low back pain (LBP) is a potential complication after total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, some studies suggest that THA not only alleviates joint pain but also resolves LBP in up to 88.2% of patients. Most of these observations are limited to short-term follow-ups. This study investigates the long-term relationship between THA and LBP, challenging the notion that THA resolves LBP. A retrospective review was conducted on 236 patients who underwent THA (2010–2020). Multiple statistical models were applied, including unadjusted unmatched, adjusted unmatched, adjusted matched, and target trial emulation with 7887 subjects, to evaluate LBP incidence. Of the 236 patients, 119 developed postoperative LBP. The unadjusted unmatched analysis showed a relative risk (RR) of 2.23 (95%CI: 1.5–3.2). Adjusting for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and recruitment period reduced the RR to 1.64 (95%CI: 1.0–2.6). The adjusted matched analysis showed an RR of 1.09 (95%CI: 0.4–3.0), while the target trial emulation simulated an RR of 1.03 (95%CI: 0.7–1.8), indicating no significant differences. Despite an apparent initial association, adjusted analyses do not support a significant long-term relationship between THA and LBP. No reduction in postoperative LBP incidence was observed, suggesting THA is safe regarding LBP risk but lacks a curative effect. Rigorous confounding adjustment is essential in retrospective studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Trends and Applications—3rd Edition)
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13 pages, 1298 KiB  
Article
Health-Related Quality of Life, Body Mass Index and the 10-Metre Walk Test in Patients Awaiting Total Knee or Hip Arthroplasty: A Cross-Sectional Data Analysis with Matched Controls
by Monika Pavlović, Špela Matko, Ferdinand Prüfer, Stefan Löfler, Michael J. Fischer, Vincent Grote and Nejc Šarabon
Life 2025, 15(2), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15020231 - 5 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1066
Abstract
The study compares the body mass index (BMI), 10-m walk test results, and self-rated health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of patients awaiting total knee or hip arthroplasty with age and sex-matched controls. Additionally, we investigated relationships between these variables to better understand how [...] Read more.
The study compares the body mass index (BMI), 10-m walk test results, and self-rated health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of patients awaiting total knee or hip arthroplasty with age and sex-matched controls. Additionally, we investigated relationships between these variables to better understand how mobility impairments and HRQoL contribute to the need for surgical intervention. Forty-three patients (age: 66.7 ± 8.7 years) awaiting total knee arthroplasty (n = 23) or total hip arthroplasty (n = 20) and 54 healthy control individuals (age: 65.6 ± 1.5 years) participated in this study. Weight and height were measured, the BMI was calculated, the 10 m walk test was performed, and HRQoL was assessed using the EQ-5D-5L questionnaire. Patients had a significantly higher BMI than controls (p = 0.037), with the majority of both groups classified as overweight or obese (patients, 86%; controls, 73%). Patients also walked significantly more slowly than controls (p < 0.001). HRQoL was significantly lower in patients across all dimensions (p < 0.001), with the greatest impairments observed in mobility, usual activities, and pain. Significant but weak correlations (p = 0.001–0.042, rs = 0.31–0.48) were found between the HRQoL, BMI, and 10 m walk test results. These findings confirm that patients awaiting total knee or hip arthroplasty exhibit an increased BMI, reduced locomotor function, and impaired HRQoL, highlighting the extent of functional limitations in individuals with end-stage osteoarthritis. The strong association between mobility impairments and HRQoL further underscores the impact of osteoarthritis on daily life and the increasing need for surgical intervention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Trends and Applications—3rd Edition)
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22 pages, 1999 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Relationship of Different Levels of Pain to the Health Status of Long-Term Breast Cancer Survivors: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Francisco Álvarez-Salvago, Maria Figueroa-Mayordomo, Cristina Molina-García, Clara Pujol-Fuentes, Sandra Atienzar-Aroca, Manuel de Diego-Moreno and Jose Medina-Luque
Life 2025, 15(2), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15020177 - 25 Jan 2025
Viewed by 934
Abstract
Purpose: This study investigated the relationship between different pain levels in the affected arm and health status in long-term breast cancer survivors (LTBCSs) and identified predictors of pain at this stage of long-term survivorship. Methods: A cross-sectional study of 80 participants categorized LTBCSs [...] Read more.
Purpose: This study investigated the relationship between different pain levels in the affected arm and health status in long-term breast cancer survivors (LTBCSs) and identified predictors of pain at this stage of long-term survivorship. Methods: A cross-sectional study of 80 participants categorized LTBCSs by pain levels in the affected arm into three groups: no pain (0–0.99), mild pain (1–3.99), and moderate to severe pain (4–10). Variables assessed at least 5 years since diagnosis include pain in the non-affected arm, pain interference, cancer-related fatigue (CRF), physical activity (PA) level, fitness condition, mood state, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Results: A total of 36.25% of LTBCSs have no pain, 30% have mild pain, and 33.75% have moderate to severe pain. Furthermore, pain presence was associated with increased pain in the non-affected arm, pain interference, CRF, mood disturbances, and physical inactivity, as well as a decreased HRQoL (all p < 0.05). Regression analysis found “upset by hair loss”, CRF “affective domain”, “dyspnea”, and “alcohol consumption” as significant predictors of higher levels of pain in the affected arm (r2 adjusted = 0.646). Conclusions: A total of 63.75% of LTBCSs continue to experience mild to moderate to severe pain in the affected arm, negatively impacting their physical, mental, and emotional health status, with increased pain severity ≥5 years beyond cancer diagnosis. “Upset by hair loss”, CRF “affective domain”, “dyspnea”, and alcohol consumption collectively explain 64.6% of the affected-arm pain level in LTBCSs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Trends and Applications—3rd Edition)
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15 pages, 764 KiB  
Article
Assessment of the Effectiveness of Fascial Manipulation in Patients with Degenerative Disc Disease of the Lumbosacral Spine
by Anna Mikołajczyk-Kocięcka, Marek Kocięcki, Lech Cyryłowski, Aleksandra Szylińska, Paweł Rynio, Magdalena Gębska, Ewelina Szuba and Jarosław Kaźmierczak
Life 2025, 15(1), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15010033 - 30 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1189
Abstract
Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Fascial Manipulation in patients with disc herniations of the lumbar spine confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. Material and Methods: This study included 69 patients with intervertebral disc damage of the lumbar [...] Read more.
Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Fascial Manipulation in patients with disc herniations of the lumbar spine confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. Material and Methods: This study included 69 patients with intervertebral disc damage of the lumbar spine, as confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. Patients were divided into two groups: a study group and a control group. The control group (C) was treated conservatively with treatments such as interference currents, diadynamic currents, tens currents, galvanization, Sollux lamps, local cryotherapy, magnetic fields, therapeutic massages of the spine, and mobility exercises. The study group (S) was subjected to therapy using Fascial Manipulation, which included two treatments—the first on the day the patient reported for the study and the second a week later. Patients for this study were selected at random. Results: This study presents a statistically significant difference between the treatment effects, as assessed by the degree of pain (p < 0.001) and mobility limitation (p < 0.001), as well as the presence of stretch symptoms (p < 0.001): all three parameters improved significantly more in the study group compared to the control group. Conclusion: Fascial Manipulation is an effective method for treating pain in patients with disc herniations of the lumbar spine; in addition to reducing pain, it improves the range of motion and the results of SLR and PKB tests. In lumbar spine pain in disc herniations, treatment using Fascial Manipulation is definitely more effective than treatment according to the traditional physiotherapy regimen. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Trends and Applications—3rd Edition)
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12 pages, 1686 KiB  
Article
Increased Variability in Lower Limb Muscle Activation Is Observed with Increasing Walking Speed in Fall-Risk Older Adults
by Yongnam Park and Youngsook Bae
Life 2024, 14(12), 1551; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14121551 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 861
Abstract
This study is a cross-sectional study and aims to determine the differences in lower limb muscle activation and variability at preferred, slow, and fast walking speeds according to age and fall risk. We divided 301 participants into groups based on fall risk (fall-risk [...] Read more.
This study is a cross-sectional study and aims to determine the differences in lower limb muscle activation and variability at preferred, slow, and fast walking speeds according to age and fall risk. We divided 301 participants into groups based on fall risk (fall-risk vs. non-fall-risk). We measured muscle activation and its coefficients of variation (CV) for the rectus femoris (RF), biceps femoris (BF), tibialis anterior (TA), and medial gastrocnemius muscle (GCM) at speeds 20% slower, 20% faster, and 40% faster than the preferred speed (PS). When compared by fall risk, fall-risk older adults had significantly lower GCM activity and higher CVs of RF, BF, TA, and GCM in PS. With changes in gait speed, fall-risk older adults had significantly increased CVs of RF, BF, and GCM. Our findings provide new evidence that variability rather than muscle activity increases with walking speed in older adults at risk of falls, highlighting the importance of decreasing muscle activity variability in preventing fall risk. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Trends and Applications—3rd Edition)
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15 pages, 3566 KiB  
Article
The Development of a System for Elbow Joint Range of Motion Measurement Based on Image Recognition and Myoelectric Signals
by Hsuan-Kai Kao, Yi-Chao Wu, Chi-Heng Lu, Xiu-Ling Hou, Tsair-Fwu Lee and Chiu-Ching Tuan
Life 2024, 14(12), 1534; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14121534 - 22 Nov 2024
Viewed by 870
Abstract
After a fracture, patients have reduced willingness to bend and extend their elbow joint due to pain, resulting in muscle atrophy, contracture, and stiffness around the elbow. Moreover, this may lead to progressive atrophy of the muscles around the elbow, resulting in permanent [...] Read more.
After a fracture, patients have reduced willingness to bend and extend their elbow joint due to pain, resulting in muscle atrophy, contracture, and stiffness around the elbow. Moreover, this may lead to progressive atrophy of the muscles around the elbow, resulting in permanent functional loss. Currently, a goniometer is used to measure the range of motion, ROM, to evaluate the recovery of the affected limb. However, the measurement process can cause measurement errors ranging from 4 to 5 degrees due to unskilled operation or inaccurate placement, leading to inaccurate judgments of the recovery of the affected limb. In addition, the current measurement methods do not include an assessment of muscle endurance. In this paper, the proposed device combines image recognition and a myoelectric signal sensor to measure the joint movement angle and muscle endurance. The movement angle of the elbow joint is measured using image recognition. Muscle endurance is measured using the myoelectric signal sensor. The measured data are transmitted to a cloud database via an app we have proposed to help medical staff track a patient’s recovery status. The average error value of static image recognition and verification is up to 0.84 degrees. The average error value of dynamic image recognition and verification is less than 1%. The average error of total harmonic distortion (THD) verified by the myoelectric signal sensor is less than ±3%. It was proven that our system could be applied to measuring elbow joint range of motion. Since this is pilot research, most of the measurement subjects are healthy people without dysfunction in arm movement, and it is difficult to observe differences in the measurement results. In the future, experiments will be conducted on patients with elbow fractures through the IRB. This is expected to achieve the effect of encouraging patients to be actively rehabilitated at home through their measurement data and images of their actions being displayed in real time using our cheap and compact device and app. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Trends and Applications—3rd Edition)
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14 pages, 2588 KiB  
Article
The Benefits of a Rehabilitation Program Following Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction
by Claudia-Camelia Burcea, Maria-Daniela-Antonia Oancea, Diana-Lidia Tache-Codreanu, Luminița Georgescu, Ioana-Cristina Neagoe and Corina Sporea
Life 2024, 14(11), 1355; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14111355 - 23 Oct 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1585
Abstract
The medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is critical for patellar stability. This study investigates the efficacy of a one-year physical therapy rehabilitation program following MPFL reconstruction using Synthetic Graft (SG) and Quadriceps Tendon Autograft (QTA). Thirty-five patients aged 18–38 underwent MPFL reconstruction (20 SG, [...] Read more.
The medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is critical for patellar stability. This study investigates the efficacy of a one-year physical therapy rehabilitation program following MPFL reconstruction using Synthetic Graft (SG) and Quadriceps Tendon Autograft (QTA). Thirty-five patients aged 18–38 underwent MPFL reconstruction (20 SG, 15 QTA). They participated in a structured rehabilitation program to improve their range of motion (ROM), muscle strength, pain management, and overall quality of life (QoL). The program included physiotherapy and MLS laser, Game Ready Therapy, EMS, TENS, TECAR, and lymphatic drainage. Before and after the program, assessments included knee flexion and extension using goniometry, muscle strength via the Medical Research Council (MRC) scale, knee circumference, pain intensity on the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and QoL with the EQ-5D instrument. Significant improvements were observed in knee flexion (37.57° vs. 114.71°, p < 0.001), muscle strength (MRC scale 1–4 points vs. 4–5 points, p < 0.001), and pain reduction (VAS 6.66 vs. 0.46, p < 0.001). The functional coefficient of mobility and QoL scores also markedly increased. Patients with QTA improved some parameters better than those with SG. These findings support the effectiveness of a comprehensive rehabilitation program in enhancing knee functionality, reducing pain, and improving QoL post-MPFL reconstruction. Personalized rehabilitation protocols are recommended to optimize recovery outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Trends and Applications—3rd Edition)
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13 pages, 844 KiB  
Article
The Effectiveness of High Intensity Laser in Improving Motor Deficits in Patients with Lumbar Disc Herniation
by Diana-Lidia Tache-Codreanu and Magdalena Rodica Trăistaru
Life 2024, 14(10), 1302; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14101302 - 14 Oct 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2147
Abstract
Background: High-Intensity Laser (HIL) therapy, known for its biostimulatory effects on nerve cell growth and repair, shows promise for improving motor deficits caused by morphopathological changes. This research study aimed to comprehensively assess muscle strength changes through muscle testing, complemented by functional tests [...] Read more.
Background: High-Intensity Laser (HIL) therapy, known for its biostimulatory effects on nerve cell growth and repair, shows promise for improving motor deficits caused by morphopathological changes. This research study aimed to comprehensively assess muscle strength changes through muscle testing, complemented by functional tests evaluating factors contributing to disability in patients with Lumbar Disc Herniation (LDH) and associated motor impairment, following a complex rehabilitation protocol incorporating HIL therapy. Methods: A total of 133 individuals with LDH and motor deficits were divided into two groups. Group 1 (n = 66) received HIL therapy followed by standard rehabilitation, while Group 2 (n = 67) underwent only the standard rehabilitation program. Functional parameters, including muscle strength, the ability to walk on tiptoes or heels, and self-assessed fall risk, were monitored. Results: Both groups showed statistically significant improvements in all monitored parameters. A comparative analysis revealed a significant result for the HIL therapy regimen across all indicators. Conclusions: The group undergoing a rehabilitation program with integrated HIL therapy displayed significantly greater improvement in motor deficits, affirming the positive impact of HIL therapy on functional parameters among LDH patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Trends and Applications—3rd Edition)
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Review

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34 pages, 13453 KiB  
Review
The Perception of the Diaphragm with Ultrasound: Always There Yet Overlooked?
by Kathleen Möller, Max Saborio, Heike Gottschall, Michael Blaivas, Adrian C. Borges, Susanne Morf, Burkhard Möller and Christoph F. Dietrich
Life 2025, 15(2), 239; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15020239 - 5 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1567
Abstract
Diaphragm ultrasound makes it possible to diagnose diaphragmatic atrophy and dysfunction. Important indications include unclear dyspnea; diaphragmatic elevation; assessment of diaphragm dysfunction in pulmonary, neuromuscular and neurovascular diseases; and in critically ill patients before noninvasive and mechanical ventilation and follow-up of diaphragm thickness [...] Read more.
Diaphragm ultrasound makes it possible to diagnose diaphragmatic atrophy and dysfunction. Important indications include unclear dyspnea; diaphragmatic elevation; assessment of diaphragm dysfunction in pulmonary, neuromuscular and neurovascular diseases; and in critically ill patients before noninvasive and mechanical ventilation and follow-up of diaphragm thickness and function during mechanical ventilation with potential prediction of prolonged weaning. In patients with respiratory insufficiency and potential diaphragm dysfunction, it is possible to objectify the contribution of diaphragm dysfunction. In addition, assessment of diaphragmatic hernias, tumors and diaphragmatic dysfunction in COVID-19 and diaphragmatic ultrasound in sports medicine have been described. This narrative review includes the sonomorphology of the diaphragm, standardization of ultrasonographic investigation with transducer positions and ultrasound techniques, normal findings and diagnostic criteria for pathological findings. The correct sonographic measurement, calculation and evaluation can ultimately influence further therapeutic procedures for the patient suffering from diaphragm dysfunction in various diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Trends and Applications—3rd Edition)
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26 pages, 887 KiB  
Review
An Overview of Reviews on Predictors of Neurorehabilitation in Surgical or Non-Surgical Patients with Brain Tumours
by Mattia Gambarin, Tullio Malgrati, Rita Di Censo, Angela Modenese, Giulio Balestro, Gloria Muti, Marta Cappellesso, Cristina Fonte, Valentina Varalta, Ylenia Gallinaro, Monica Pinto, Matilde Carlucci, Alessandro Picelli and Nicola Smania
Life 2024, 14(11), 1377; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14111377 - 26 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1540
Abstract
(1) Background. People suffering from brain cancer, regardless of histological tumour characteristics, often experience motor disturbances, cognitive–behavioural difficulty, language impairments, and functional and social limitations. The current treatment approach entails surgery and adjuvant therapy such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy combined with intensive rehabilitation. [...] Read more.
(1) Background. People suffering from brain cancer, regardless of histological tumour characteristics, often experience motor disturbances, cognitive–behavioural difficulty, language impairments, and functional and social limitations. The current treatment approach entails surgery and adjuvant therapy such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy combined with intensive rehabilitation. The primary focus of rehabilitation is usually motor and functional recovery, without specifically addressing the patient’s quality of life. The present systematic review identifies and evaluates the predictors of functional and cognitive rehabilitation outcomes and their influence on quality of life in adult patients with brain cancer. (2) Methods. Three electronic databases (PubMed, Elsevier, Cochrane) were searched for reviews about functional, cognitive, and quality-of-life outcomes in patients with central nervous system tumours, including articles published between January 2018 and May 2024. (3) Results. The search retrieved 399 records, 40 of which were reviewed. Five main areas of predictive factors were identified: diagnosis, therapy, complications, outcomes (in the motor, cognitive, and quality-of-life categories), and tailored rehabilitation. (4) Conclusions. These indicators may inform integrated care pathways for patients with primary central nervous system tumours. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Trends and Applications—3rd Edition)
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Other

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15 pages, 3344 KiB  
Perspective
Integrating Ultrasound-Guided Injections and Peripheral Magnetic Stimulation in Chronic Myofascial/Lumbar Pain
by Wei-Ting Wu, Ke-Vin Chang, Kamal Mezian, Vincenzo Ricci and Levent Özçakar
Life 2025, 15(4), 563; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15040563 - 31 Mar 2025
Viewed by 327
Abstract
Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a common musculoskeletal disorder that significantly affects quality of life. Conventional treatment approaches include pharmacological interventions, physical therapy, and procedures such as dry needling. Among these, ultrasound-guided injections (USGIs) have gained recognition for their precision and therapeutic benefits. [...] Read more.
Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a common musculoskeletal disorder that significantly affects quality of life. Conventional treatment approaches include pharmacological interventions, physical therapy, and procedures such as dry needling. Among these, ultrasound-guided injections (USGIs) have gained recognition for their precision and therapeutic benefits. Additionally, repetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation (rPMS) has emerged as a non-invasive neuromodulatory technique for pain management. This perspective article examines the physiological mechanisms and clinical applications of USGIs and rPMS, particularly in the lumbar multifidus muscle, and explores their potential synergistic effects. MPS is often associated with chronic muscle dysfunction due to energy depletion, leading to persistent pain and motor impairment. USGIs play a crucial role in restoring muscle perfusion, disrupting pain cycles, and providing diagnostic insights in real time. In parallel, rPMS modulates neuromuscular activation, enhances endogenous pain control, and promotes functional recovery. Ultrasound guidance enhances the precision and effectiveness of interventions, such as dry needling, interfascial plane blocks, and fascial hydrodissection, while rPMS complements these strategies by facilitating neuromuscular reconditioning and reducing pain via central and peripheral mechanisms. The preliminary findings suggest that combining multifidus USGIs with rPMS results in significant pain relief and functional improvements in patients with chronic low back pain. Integrating USGIs with rPMS represents a promising multimodal strategy for managing MPS. By combining targeted injections with non-invasive neuromodulation, clinicians may optimize therapeutic outcomes and provide sustained relief for patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain. Further research is needed to refine treatment protocols and assess the long-term efficacy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Trends and Applications—3rd Edition)
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