New Trends in Physiotherapy Care: Improvements in Functionality, Pain Management, and Quality of Life

Abstract submission deadline

31 December 2025

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3 March 2026

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Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

Physiotherapy is emerging as one of the most rapidly expanding fields within healthcare systems, while rehabilitation is undergoing significant modernization across various specialties, including neurology, cardiology, rheumatology, and traumatology. The integration of new systems and protocols represents an unstoppable wave of progress; however, these clinical advancements demand robust evidence, making it essential to publish findings that validate and support the efficacy of new interventions.

Key areas of impact today include exercise-based therapies, telerehabilitation, virtual reality applications, and the evolving paradigm of pain management. This Topic aims to offer a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in rehabilitation, addressing critical clinical challenges such as pathophysiology, risk factors, diagnostic strategies, cost-effective intervention methods, treatment efficacy, innovative clinical perspectives, and the formulation of new rehabilitation protocols.

Researchers in the field are invited to contribute original articles or comprehensive reviews to this Topic. Please note that case reports and short reviews will not be considered.

• Exercise therapy.
• Telerehabilitation.
• New tends in rehabilitation.
• Pain management.
• Neurology.
• Rheumatology.
• Musculoskeletal.
• Manipulations.
• Cost-effectiveness.

Dr. Carlos Bernal-Utrera
Dr. Ernesto Anarte-Lazo
Prof. Dr. Juan José González Gerez
Topic Editors

Keywords

Participating Journals

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology jfmk	2.5	3.7	2016	26.9 Days	CHF 1800	Submit
Medicina medicina	2.4	4.1	1920	17.5 Days	CHF 2200	Submit
Therapeutics therapeutics	-	-	2024	15.0 days *	CHF 1000	Submit
Healthcare healthcare	2.7	4.7	2013	21.5 Days	CHF 2700	Submit
Journal of Clinical Medicine jcm	2.9	5.2	2012	17.7 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Rheumato rheumato	-	-	2021	53.8 Days	CHF 1000	Submit

* Median value for all MDPI journals in the first half of 2025.

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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18 pages, 1266 KiB  

Open AccessReview

Effectiveness of Lifestyle-Based Approaches for Adults with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity: A Systematic Review

by Isidro Miguel Martín Pérez, David Alejandro Parra Castillo, Carlos Pastor Ruiz de la Fuente and Sebastián Eustaquio Martín Pérez

Therapeutics 2025, 2(3), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/therapeutics2030013 (registering DOI) - 22 Jul 2025

Abstract

Background: Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) is a complex, disabling condition marked by non-specific symptoms in response to low-level chemical exposures. It often leads to substantial impairments in quality of life, psychological health, and daily functioning. Although non-pharmacological approaches—such as lifestyle and psychological interventions—are [...] Read more.

Background: Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) is a complex, disabling condition marked by non-specific symptoms in response to low-level chemical exposures. It often leads to substantial impairments in quality of life, psychological health, and daily functioning. Although non-pharmacological approaches—such as lifestyle and psychological interventions—are widely used, their clinical effectiveness remains unclear. Objective: We aim to evaluate the effectiveness of lifestyle-based approaches in improving clinical and psychosocial outcomes in adults with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity. Methods: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO: CRD420251013537). Literature searches were carried out in MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate between March and April 2025. Eligible studies included adults (≥18 years) with a confirmed diagnosis of MCS and reported outcomes such as perceived stress, anxiety, depressive symptoms, or quality of life. Methodological quality and risk of bias were independently assessed using the PEDro scale, NIH Quality Assessment Tool, CEBMa checklist, and Cochrane RoB 2.0. Results: Twelve studies (N = 378) met the inclusion criteria. Cognitive and behavioral therapies demonstrated the most consistent evidence of efficacy, with reductions in symptom severity, maladaptive cognitive patterns, and functional limitations. Mindfulness-based stress reduction showed favorable outcomes, while other mindfulness-based interventions yielded mixed results. Exposure-based therapies contributed to increased chemical tolerance and reduced avoidance behavior. Electromagnetic and biomedical approaches demonstrated preliminary but limited effectiveness. Aromatherapy was well tolerated and perceived as relaxing, though its clinical impact was modest. Conclusions: Cognitive and behavioral therapies appear to be most effective among lifestyle-based interventions for MCS/IEI. However, study heterogeneity limits the generalizability of findings, underscoring the need for more rigorous research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Trends in Physiotherapy Care: Improvements in Functionality, Pain Management, and Quality of Life)

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15 pages, 1291 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Multifactorial Influences on Oxygen Consumption Recovery Post-High-Intensity Exercise in Adults: A Case-Control Study

by Monira I. Aldhahi, Rawan I. Alahmed, Reem H. Almutairi, Haya A. Alqahtani, Hatoon M. Alawad, Rania S. Alkabeer, Leena K. Alqhtani and Mohanad S. Aljubairi

Medicina 2025, 61(7), 1213; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61071213 - 3 Jul 2025

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Abstract

Background and Objectives: Oxygen consumption (VO₂) recovery plays a critical role in reestablishing homeostasis within multiple physiological processes. This study aimed to assess the differences in the fitness profiles, fatigability, patterns of VO₂ recovery, and sleep quality among individuals [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Oxygen consumption (VO₂) recovery plays a critical role in reestablishing homeostasis within multiple physiological processes. This study aimed to assess the differences in the fitness profiles, fatigability, patterns of VO₂ recovery, and sleep quality among individuals with different body fat percentages. Thus, we evaluated the predictive effects of body fat percentage, CRF, fatigability, and sleep quality on VO₂ recovery patterns following exercise. Materials and Methods: Eighty healthy participants aged 18–52 years were included in this case-control study. The participants were divided into two groups based on body fat percentage: normal-fat (CON; n = 40) and high-fat (HFG; n = 40) groups. The PSQI questionnaire was used to assess sleep efficiency, and a 10 min walk test was performed to assess fatigability. Both groups underwent a symptom-limited treadmill exercise test to assess VO₂ using a modified bulk protocol, followed by 6 min of passive recovery. Results: The participants in the CON group had a higher mean VO₂ peak than those in the high-fat-percentage group (p = 0.0003). The half-time recovery (T1 and T2) demonstrated higher amounts of VO₂ in the CON group compared to the HFG group (p = 0.0007 and p = 0.0005), respectively. Those in the HFG reported greater performance fatigability (p = 0.01) and poorer sleep quality compared to the CON group (p < 0.001). The multiple linear regression model indicated that a higher recovery amount of VO₂ was associated with the fat percentage, VO₂ peak, and fatigability index and explained 72% of the variance (F = 39.58, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The findings of this study revealed that the participants with higher fat percentages exhibited increased performance fatigability and a reduced peak VO₂ and reported poor sleep quality compared to the normal group. CPF, body fat, and performance fatigability were associated with VO₂ recovery after high-intensity exercise. The interplay between body fat, fatigability, sleep quality, and VO₂ recovery highlights the need for a holistic approach to healthcare. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Trends in Physiotherapy Care: Improvements in Functionality, Pain Management, and Quality of Life)

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12 pages, 456 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

The Accuracy and Reliability of the Photometric Method—A New Noninvasive Tool for Assessing Frontal Lower Limb Alignment

by Anna Fryzowicz, Jan Szymczak and Paweł Koczewski

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(12), 4244; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14124244 - 14 Jun 2025

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Abstract

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to establish the reliability and accuracy of a new noninvasive tool for FLLA (frontal plane lower limb alignment) assessment: a photometric method. Methods: Sixty-seven subjects (31 males, 36 females, age 11–47 years) participated in the [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to establish the reliability and accuracy of a new noninvasive tool for FLLA (frontal plane lower limb alignment) assessment: a photometric method. Methods: Sixty-seven subjects (31 males, 36 females, age 11–47 years) participated in the study. Seventeen subjects with orthopedic disorders were marked with radiopaque markers over the anterior superior iliac spines and femoral condyles. One pelvis-to-floor radiograph and one photograph were taken in the same standardized standing position. The hip–knee–ankle (HKA) angle (radiography) and the pelvis–knee–ankle (PKA) angle (photography) were measured by one rater. In 50 healthy participants, anterior superior iliac spines and femoral condyles were marked, and two pelvis-to-floor photographs were taken in a standardized standing position. The PKA angle was measured two times by three raters. The accuracy of the photometric method was tested with Pearson’s correlation coefficient, simple linear regression, and Bland–Altman analysis. The reliability was tested with ICC(2,k) and Bland–Altman analysis. Results: The HKA angle was on average 3.9° more varus than the PKA angle, with a high correlation between measures (r = 0.97, p < 0.0001) and limits of agreement between −1.300 and −6.482. Intrarater (ICC(2,k) > 0.972), interrater (ICC(2,k) = 0.991), and test–retest (ICC(2,k) = 0.980) reliability were excellent. Conclusions: The photometric method is promising as a reliable and accurate noninvasive tool for assessing FLLA. Its accuracy across different study groups has yet to be confirmed in a larger cohort. The advantage of the presented photometric method is the use of the easily palpable anterior superior iliac spine as the proximal femoral axis point. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Trends in Physiotherapy Care: Improvements in Functionality, Pain Management, and Quality of Life)

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13 pages, 624 KiB  

Open AccessSystematic Review

Effects of Physical Exercise on the Physical and Mental Health of Family Caregivers: A Systematic Review

by Ana Bravo-Vazquez, Ernesto Anarte-Lazo, Juan Jose Gonzalez-Gerez, Cleofas Rodriguez-Blanco and Carlos Bernal-Utrera

Healthcare 2025, 13(10), 1196; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13101196 - 20 May 2025

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Abstract

The number of family caregivers of dependent older adults is increasing. The adverse effects of the work provided by these caregivers can have a negative impact on their own physical and mental health, so it is necessary to develop strategies that support and [...] Read more.

The number of family caregivers of dependent older adults is increasing. The adverse effects of the work provided by these caregivers can have a negative impact on their own physical and mental health, so it is necessary to develop strategies that support and improve the quality of life and functional capacity of this group. Background/Objectives: The aim of this systematic review is to analyze physical exercise interventions for family caregivers and the effects on their physical and mental health, quality of life and functioning. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in the scientific databases PubMed, Embase, Scopus and CINAHL. Data extraction was carried out from the selected articles, obtaining information about the characteristics of the study subjects, type and characteristics of the intervention and results. Results: A total of 17 studies were selected for the review. All studies were based on physical exercise interventions and reported significant improvements in caregivers’ physical and mental health, as well as an increase in their quality of life and functioning. Most of the study subjects were older adult women relatives. No adverse effects were found to the interventions. Conclusions: Physical exercise seems to be effective in improving the physical and mental health of family caregivers, increasing their quality of life and functional capacity. More future research is needed to make interventions more accessible to family caregivers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Trends in Physiotherapy Care: Improvements in Functionality, Pain Management, and Quality of Life)

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19 pages, 1077 KiB  

Open AccessReview

Intensity of Resistance Exercise and Its Effects on Pain, Functionality, and Quality of Life in Adults with Fibromyalgia: A Systematic Review

by Kevin Paúl Guachizaca Moreno, Lucía Fernanda Flores-Santy and Israel Vinueza Fernández

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(2), 121; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10020121 - 5 Apr 2025

Viewed by 1410

Abstract

Background: Fibromyalgia is a chronic rheumatological disease that affects the musculoskeletal system, primarily characterized by widespread chronic pain and other symptoms that significantly impact the quality of life of those who suffer from it, being more prevalent in the female population. In this [...] Read more.

Background: Fibromyalgia is a chronic rheumatological disease that affects the musculoskeletal system, primarily characterized by widespread chronic pain and other symptoms that significantly impact the quality of life of those who suffer from it, being more prevalent in the female population. In this context, among the non-pharmacological treatments available for this condition, resistance exercise has shown to be a promising intervention. The aim of this systematic review was to determine the optimal intensity of resistance exercise in patients with fibromyalgia and evaluate its effects and benefits. Methods: An exhaustive literature search was carried out in the PubMed, Scopus, SciELO, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and PEDro databases. After the selection process, from the 405 studies initially identified, 17 met the established inclusion criteria. Subsequently, the methodological quality of the studies was evaluated using the Cochrane RoB 2 tool. Results: From the 405 studies initially identified, 17 met the established inclusion criteria. The results indicate that among the interventions studied, progressive intensity is the most recommended, where it is suggested to start with 40% of 1RM. This is followed, in order of recommendation, by low- and medium-intensity exercises, while high-intensity exercises are, in principle, the least used. Furthermore, the analysis of the effects of progressive intensity exercise showed promising results, including a significant decrease in pain, an increase in physical functionality, and, consequently, an improvement in quality of life. Conclusions: These findings suggest that progressive resistance exercise is an effective intervention for treating patients with fibromyalgia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Trends in Physiotherapy Care: Improvements in Functionality, Pain Management, and Quality of Life)

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14 pages, 1735 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Ankle Joint Angles and Surrounding Muscles on Hip Joint Musculature

by Yuta Murata, Noriyuki Kida, Takumi Jiromaru, Michio Wachi, Kohei Yoshikawa, Shinichi Noguchi and Hitoshi Onishi

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(2), 110; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10020110 - 27 Mar 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 918

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Hip abductor weakness is a common issue in patients with lower back pain, knee osteoarthritis, and hip disorders, and compromises pelvic stability, gait control, and function. Side-lying hip abduction exercises are widely used as safe and effective interventions for patients unable [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Hip abductor weakness is a common issue in patients with lower back pain, knee osteoarthritis, and hip disorders, and compromises pelvic stability, gait control, and function. Side-lying hip abduction exercises are widely used as safe and effective interventions for patients unable to perform high-load or weight-bearing activities. However, the influence of ankle joint angles and distal muscle activity on the hip abductor muscles remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of ankle joint angles and activation states on unilateral right hip abductor strength and muscle activity. Methods: Fifteen healthy male adults (29.1 ± 5.4 years) participated. Surface electromyography (EMG) was used to measure the activity of the tensor fasciae latae (TFL), gluteus medius (G-med), gluteus maximus, tibialis anterior, and medial gas-trocnemius muscles. Hip abduction strength was evaluated in a side-lying position with the ankle positioned at three angles (neutral, dorsiflexion, and plantarflexion) and in three activation states (no activation, maximal dorsiflexion, and maximal plantarflexion). Two-factor (3 × 3) repeated measures ANOVA was used to analyze strength and EMG activity. Results: ANOVA revealed a significant interaction effect. The results of the simple main effects showed significantly higher hip abduction strength in dorsiflexion than in the neutral position and plantarflexion (p < 0.001). TFL and G-med EMG activities peaked during dorsiflexion, particularly under maximal dorsiflexion. Conclusions: These findings suggest that dorsiflexion enhances hip abductor strength and activity by increasing fascial tension (lateral line and superficial backline) and improving limb alignment. This approach may provide effective rehabilitation strategies. This is a load-adjustable training recovery approach that should be confirmed with future intervention studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Trends in Physiotherapy Care: Improvements in Functionality, Pain Management, and Quality of Life)

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16 pages, 846 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Proprioceptive Training According to Radiological Stages in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis

by Sibel Gayretli Atan, Esra Pehlivan and Sinan Bağçacı

Medicina 2025, 61(3), 546; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61030546 - 20 Mar 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1226

Abstract

Background and Objectives: The aim of the study was to compare the effectiveness of proprioceptive studies according to radiological stages in patients with knee osteoarthritis and to determine at which stage of the disease it should be added to the rehabilitation program. [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: The aim of the study was to compare the effectiveness of proprioceptive studies according to radiological stages in patients with knee osteoarthritis and to determine at which stage of the disease it should be added to the rehabilitation program. Materials and Methods: This study is a prospective clinical trial. The study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (name of the registry: Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Proprioceptive Training According to Radiological Stages in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis; trial registration number: NCT06150170; date of registration: 21 November 2023). The patients were divided into two groups, which were Grade 1–2 (Group 1) and Grade 3–4 (Group 2) knee osteoarthritis. Both groups underwent a strengthening plus proprioception exercise 3 times a week for 4 weeks. Our primary scale was the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis (WOMAC) scale. The secondary outcome measures were pain intensity level, proprioception, range of motion, muscle strength, physical performance, physical activity, quality of life and patient satisfaction. All evaluations were performed twice, before treatment and after 4 weeks of treatment. Conclusions: After treatment, there were significant improvements in pain, range of motion, proprioception, muscle strength, functionality, physical performance and quality of life in both groups (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference between the total WOMAC scores among groups after treatment (p = 0.086). There was more improvement in hip external rotation range of motion in Group 1 (p = 0.022). No significant difference was found in other secondary outcomes (p > 0.05). As a result of this study, we found that proprioceptive training was effective on pain, joint position sense, range of motion, muscle strength, functionality, physical performance and quality of life in patients with knee osteoarthritis in all radiological stages. However, there was no difference between the groups, except for hip external rotation angles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Trends in Physiotherapy Care: Improvements in Functionality, Pain Management, and Quality of Life)

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