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Medicina
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Clinical Recent Research in Rehabilitation and Preventive Medicine
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Clinical Recent Research in Rehabilitation and Preventive Medicine

A special issue of Medicina (ISSN 1648-9144). This special issue belongs to the section "Sports Medicine and Sports Traumatology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 January 2026) | Viewed by 12380

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Mihai Berteanu

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Guest Editor
Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Elias Emergency University Hospital, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
Interests: physical and rehabilitation medicine
Dr. Marius Nicolae Popescu

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Guest Editor Assistant
Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine-“Elias” Emergency University Hospital, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
Interests: physical and rehabilitation medicine; hollistic rehabilitation; post-stroke rehabilitation; post-stroke spasticity; botulinum toxin injections for spasticity; muskusloskeletal ultrasound; environment and public health
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Mădălina-Gabriela Iliescu

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor Assistant
Department of Medical Rehabilitation, Ovidius University, 900527 Constanța, Romania
Interests: physical and rehabilitation medicine

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are pleased to announce a Special Issue entitled “Clinical Recent Research in Rehabilitation and Preventive Medicine”, which will focus on the latest advancements and innovative methodologies in this field. We welcome high-quality original research papers and comprehensive reviews that explore cutting-edge technologies, clinical interventions, and approaches aimed at enhancing rehabilitation outcomes and preventive care in physical and rehabilitation medicine.

Wearable sensor devices (WSDs) are transforming patient monitoring by providing real-time data that inform personalized rehabilitation programs and preventive strategies. Advances in biomechanics and motion analysis are enabling the identification of movement patterns that predispose patients to injuries, facilitating targeted interventions to improve patient outcomes.

Regenerative medicine, particularly the use of stem cells, is offering new treatment possibilities for complex musculoskeletal conditions, significantly enhancing recovery outcomes. Musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSKUS) has emerged as a critical tool in diagnostics and treatment, providing dynamic, real-time imaging, which is essential for precise diagnosis and guided interventions. The integration of AI in ultrasound systems further improves diagnostic accuracy and training efficiency. Additionally, telehealth and remote monitoring are ensuring continuous patient care, extending the reach of physical medicine beyond traditional clinical settings.

This Special Issue aims to compile research that not only advances clinical outcomes, but also shapes the future landscape of rehabilitation medicine and preventive healthcare. Your contributions will be invaluable in showcasing these cutting-edge developments and their practical applications.

Prof. Dr. Mihai Berteanu
Guest Editor

Dr. Marius Nicolae Popescu
Prof. Dr. Mădălina-Gabriela Iliescu
Guest Editor Assistants

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

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. Medicina 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 2200 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

  • physical medicine
  • rehabilitation
  • injury prevention
  • wearable sensor devices (WSDs)
  • biomechanics
  • regenerative medicine
  • musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSKUS)
  • AI in medicine
  • telehealth
  • motion analysis

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Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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15 pages, 307 KB  
Article
Investigation of the Effects of Ski Ergometer-Based Training on Respiratory Functions and Isokinetic Muscle Strength in Cross-Country Skiers
by Buket Sevindik Aktaş, Esedullah Akaras, Muhammet Polat, Sıla Kara and Mine Kılıç
Medicina 2026, 62(3), 543; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62030543 - 14 Mar 2026
Viewed by 658
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Cross-country skiing requires high levels of upper-body strength and efficient respiratory function to sustain performance during sport-specific movements. This study aimed to examine the effects of an eight-week ski ergometer-based training program on upper-extremity isokinetic muscle strength and pulmonary [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Cross-country skiing requires high levels of upper-body strength and efficient respiratory function to sustain performance during sport-specific movements. This study aimed to examine the effects of an eight-week ski ergometer-based training program on upper-extremity isokinetic muscle strength and pulmonary function in competitive cross-country skiers. Materials and Methods: A total of 20 cross-country skiers voluntarily participated in the study (experimental group: n = 10, control group: n = 10). The research was conducted using a quasi-experimental controlled design. During the eight-week training period, the experimental group performed ski ergometer training three times per week at an intensity of 80–90% of maximal heart rate, with a target distance of 2.5 km per session, in addition to their regular training program. Measurements were obtained before and after the intervention. Results: Following the ski ergometer training period, significant increases were observed in FVC (F = 18.565, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.508) and FEV1 (F = 8.789, p = 0.008, ηp2 = 0.328), which were associated with enhanced respiratory muscle endurance and ventilatory capacity. Regarding the isokinetic strength parameters, the DPPE60 variable showed significant main effects of time (F = 33.770, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.652) and time × group interaction (F = 18.590, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.508), indicating higher upper-extremity strength values across the measurement period. Additionally, strong positive correlations were found between dominant and nondominant limbs (r = 0.79–0.92; p < 0.05), indicating balanced bilateral strength development and high neuromuscular coordination. Conclusions: Ski ergometer-based training was associated with improvements in upper-extremity peak power (DPPE60) and ventilatory capacity (FVC) beyond general training-related adaptations. These findings suggest that SkiErg training may be a useful complementary method for enhancing selected performance-related physiological parameters in cross-country skiers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Recent Research in Rehabilitation and Preventive Medicine)
14 pages, 684 KB  
Article
Correlation Between Core Stability and Plantar Pressure Distribution During Double-Leg Stance, Single-Leg Stance, and Squat Positions in Healthy Male Athletes
by Reem Abdullah Babkair, Shibili Nuhmani, Turki Abualait and Qassim Muaidi
Medicina 2025, 61(7), 1188; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61071188 - 30 Jun 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1776
Abstract
Background: Core stability is a cornerstone of optimum athletic performance, and its reduction is a risk factor for athletic injuries. Evidence has shown that core impairments can alter lower-limb mechanics through the kinetic chains. Additionally, plantar pressure can be influenced by proximal [...] Read more.
Background: Core stability is a cornerstone of optimum athletic performance, and its reduction is a risk factor for athletic injuries. Evidence has shown that core impairments can alter lower-limb mechanics through the kinetic chains. Additionally, plantar pressure can be influenced by proximal conditions, such as core muscle fatigue. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the correlation between core endurance and plantar pressure distribution (PPD) during double-leg stance, single-leg stance, and single-leg squat positions in healthy male athletes. Methods: A total of 21 healthy male recreational athletes between 19 and 26 years of age volunteered to participate in this correlational study. The McGill core endurance test was used to measure the endurance of their core flexors, extensors, and lateral flexors. The participants’ PPD was evaluated using the Tekscan Mobile Mat pressure measurement system in three positions (double-leg stance, single-leg stance, and single-leg squat) for both the dominant and non-dominant feet. Results: There was a poor and insignificant correlation (p > 0.05) between the core flexors’, extensors’, and side flexors’ endurance and the peak and total PPD in all the tested positions for both the dominant and non-dominant feet. Conclusions: Core muscle endurance is neither a component that affects nor is affected by the PPD in this study population. Thus, the endurance of core flexors, extensors, and side flexors may not be considered in screening, examination, or intervention for the total and peak pressure during double-leg stance, single-leg stance, and single-leg squat positions for both the dominant and non-dominant feet in the study population. Further similar studies are warranted in various sports and during dynamic tasks to better understand the different dimensions of the studied relationship in athletes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Recent Research in Rehabilitation and Preventive Medicine)
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16 pages, 726 KB  
Article
Exploring the Connections Between Grip Strength, Nutritional Status, Frailty, Depression, and Cognition as Initial Assessment Tools in Geriatric Rehabilitation—A Pilot Study
by Amalia Teodora Vancea Nemirschi, Andreea Alexandra Lupu, Kamer-Ainur Aivaz, Mădălina Gabriela Iliescu, Michel Deriaz, Mircea Marzan and Luiza Spiru
Medicina 2024, 60(12), 1916; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60121916 - 21 Nov 2024
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3986
Abstract
Background and Objective: In the context of the rapidly aging global population, the older adult vulnerability poses a significant challenge for public health systems. Frailty, cognitive and nutritional status, depression, and grip strength are essential parameters for staging the vulnerability of older adults. [...] Read more.
Background and Objective: In the context of the rapidly aging global population, the older adult vulnerability poses a significant challenge for public health systems. Frailty, cognitive and nutritional status, depression, and grip strength are essential parameters for staging the vulnerability of older adults. The objective of this study is to identify a rapid but multidimensional geriatric assessment tool that can enhance the rehabilitation process for older adults, tailored to their specific needs. Materials and Methods: This pilot study examines the relationships between grip strength, nutritional status, frailty, depression, and cognition in a group of 80 older adults with a mean age of 69.6 years, 49 male and 31 female, using standardized geriatric scales and digital grip strength measurements. The study employed a digital dynamometer, a portable and reliable tool that facilitated quick and accurate grip strength measurements. Results: The analysis revealed significant correlations among the parameters. Greater grip strength was associated with better cognitive performance (r = 0.237, p = 0.034) and improved nutritional status (r = 0.267, p = 0.016), while it was inversely related to frailty (r = −0.313, p = 0.005). Nutritional status also played a key role, showing an inverse relationship with frailty (r = −0.333, p = 0.003) and depression levels (r = −0.248, p = 0.027). Furthermore, frailty and depression were strongly interconnected, with those experiencing higher frailty levels also displaying more severe depressive symptoms (r = 0.545, p < 0.001). Marital status was also relevant: married participants exhibited higher grip strength, lower frailty, and fewer depressive symptoms, suggesting that social support positively influences both physical and mental health in older adults. Conclusions: These findings not only emphasize the need for integrated care approaches that simultaneously address physical health, nutrition, and cognitive function, but also provide a foundation for the development of a rapid and multidimensional assessment protocol, which consists of using a digital dynamometer and four geriatric scales. Such a tool could play a crucial role in the early detection of frailty syndrome and guide the implementation of multidisciplinary, tailored therapeutic strategies aimed at preserving the autonomy and improving the quality of life of older adults. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Recent Research in Rehabilitation and Preventive Medicine)
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Review

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23 pages, 1145 KB  
Review
Reconsidering Rehabilitation and Lifestyle Approaches to Improve Quality of Life in People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Scoping Review
by Elena Bianca Basalic, Nadinne Alexandra Roman, Diana Minzatanu, Adina Ionelia Manaila, Ionut Cristian Cozmin Baseanu and Roxana Steliana Miclaus
Medicina 2026, 62(1), 215; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62010215 - 20 Jan 2026
Viewed by 992
Abstract
Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) involves complex physical, cognitive and behavioral challenges that collectively affect quality of life. Integrating lifestyle components such as sleep optimization, dietary behaviors, stress management, and self-management strategies into rehabilitation may enhance outcomes beyond traditional approaches. This scoping review [...] Read more.
Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) involves complex physical, cognitive and behavioral challenges that collectively affect quality of life. Integrating lifestyle components such as sleep optimization, dietary behaviors, stress management, and self-management strategies into rehabilitation may enhance outcomes beyond traditional approaches. This scoping review aimed to map rehabilitation interventions that combine psychomotor, cognitive, lifestyle-focused, or multimodal elements and assess quality of life in adults with MS. Methods: This scoping review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR guidelines, which guided the identification, screening, and selection of studies. Screening and data extraction were conducted independently by two reviewers. From 135 records, nine primary studies and four secondary evidence sources were included. Results: Most studies involved adults with mild-to-moderate disability and predominantly relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis. Physical or motor rehabilitation interventions were examined in five studies, while two studies evaluated multimodal rehabilitation programs, one study focused on cognitive rehabilitation, and one study investigated lifestyle-oriented or self-management-integrated approaches. Quality of life was assessed in all included studies, with improvements reported across multiple domains. Fatigue-related outcomes were reported in four studies, sleep-related outcomes in three studies, and digitally delivered or hybrid rehabilitation interventions were implemented in three studies, indicating an emerging trend toward technology-supported rehabilitation approaches. Conclusions: Contemporary MS rehabilitation is moving toward multidimensional, holistic models that integrate lifestyle components. Standardized outcomes, inclusion of more diverse MS phenotypes, and rigorous evaluation of integrated frameworks are required to strengthen the evidence base and inform clinical practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Recent Research in Rehabilitation and Preventive Medicine)
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Other

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27 pages, 1381 KB  
Systematic Review
Effectiveness of Robotic Systems with Dynamic Body Weight Support in Post-Traumatic Lower Limb Rehabilitation: A Systematic Review
by Oana-Georgiana Cernea, Diana-Maria Stanciu, Roxana Pipernea, Laszlo Irsay, Viorela-Mihaela Ciortea, Mihaela Stanciu, Carmen Daniela Domnariu, Alina Liliana Pintea, Cosmina Diaconu and Florina-Ligia Popa
Medicina 2026, 62(3), 498; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62030498 - 6 Mar 2026
Viewed by 821
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Post-traumatic lower limb injuries are frequently associated with gait impairment, reduced functional independence, and delayed recovery due to weight-bearing restrictions. Dynamic body weight support (DBWS) refers to rehabilitation technologies that provide real-time, adaptive unloading of body weight during functional [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Post-traumatic lower limb injuries are frequently associated with gait impairment, reduced functional independence, and delayed recovery due to weight-bearing restrictions. Dynamic body weight support (DBWS) refers to rehabilitation technologies that provide real-time, adaptive unloading of body weight during functional tasks such as walking, enabling safer and more effective gait training. Although these robotic systems have been extensively investigated in neurological pathologies, there is a lack of evidence regarding their use in post-traumatic lower limb injuries. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of robotic systems incorporating DBWS in the rehabilitation of post-traumatic lower limb pathologies. Materials and Methods: This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, and the protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD420261294273). Seven major databases (PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Cochrane, Web of Science, Springer, and Wiley) were searched from inception to October 2025. Studies that were considered included patients with recent post-traumatic pathologies in the lower limbs. The methodological quality and risk of bias of the included studies were evaluated using the PEDro scale and the RoB 2 tool. Results: Seven studies involving 265 participants with recent post-traumatic lower limb injuries were included. The rehabilitation systems reviewed enabled early, intensive gait and balance training by reducing lower limb loading and facilitating safe performance of functional walking tasks. However, substantial heterogeneity in intervention protocols and outcome measures limited direct comparisons across studies. Conclusions: The findings of this systematic review suggest that DBWS interventions may enhance gait and balance recovery in individuals with post-traumatic lower limb injuries. Despite the small number of participants included, the available evidence indicates that these technologies can facilitate functional improvements during the early stages of rehabilitation and may represent a valuable adjunct to conventional therapeutic approaches. Nevertheless, further well-designed studies with larger sample sizes, standardized intervention protocols, and long-term follow-up are required to establish optimal clinical implementation strategies and to confirm the durability of treatment effects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Recent Research in Rehabilitation and Preventive Medicine)
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21 pages, 407 KB  
Systematic Review
Structural and Psychometric Properties of Neck Pain Questionnaires Through Patient-Reported Outcome Measures: A Systematic Review
by Manuel Gonzalez-Sanchez, Álvaro Jesús Reina-Ruiz, Guadalupe Molina-Torres, Sandra Kamila Trzcińska, Elio Carrasco-Vega, Alena Lochmannová and Alejandro Galán-Mercant
Medicina 2025, 61(7), 1254; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61071254 - 10 Jul 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2034
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Questionnaires are patient-reported outcome measures that require a validation process to assess their reliability and replicability. Over time, questionnaires have not only focused on a single health condition, such as neck pain, but also expanded their assessment spectrum to [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Questionnaires are patient-reported outcome measures that require a validation process to assess their reliability and replicability. Over time, questionnaires have not only focused on a single health condition, such as neck pain, but also expanded their assessment spectrum to other areas in order to gather additional and relevant information from the patient. The main objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the different structural and psychometric characteristics of neck pain questionnaires. Materials and Methods: A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA recommendations. The search strategy was implemented across various databases (PubMed, Cochrane, EMBASE, CINHAL, Trip Medical Database, Scopus) using terms such as neck pain, cervicalgia, cervical pain, questionnaire, survey, index, validity, validation, and reliability. COSMIN criteria were used to identify valid questionnaires for this systematic review based on their psychometric properties. Results: A total of 15 articles were identified in this systematic review, of which 8 assessed the level of disability, while the rest evaluated dizziness in neck pain, anxiety and/or depression, beliefs about fear and avoidance, and perception of scarring and symptoms after neck surgery. The main findings show that neck pain questionnaires exhibit very good values for reliability and internal consistency, along with a high variability for construct validity. Conclusions: This study highlights the good values exhibited by neck pain questionnaires despite their heterogeneity in structural characteristics, demonstrating good values in psychometric properties. Nevertheless, the latter should be further investigated to gather more information. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Recent Research in Rehabilitation and Preventive Medicine)
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