Farhoud Saeed Ershadi, Mohammad Kianfar, Monireh Ahmadi Bani,
Volume 0, Issue 0 (4-2024)
Abstract
Abstract
Objective: A major problem faced by cerebral palsy children is spasticity. Spasticity is characterized by difficulty controlling, functioning, and coordinating movement of the body. Furthermore, it affects the quality of sleep of children. Orthosis plays a significant role in rehabilitation treatment for this condition, according to all treatments used. Orthosis, which have orthokinetic and neurologic properties, are used to reduce and control spasticity and hypertonicity by affecting muscle activity. The present study aims to evaluate the orthosis design for its efficacy in improving sleep quality and reducing spasticity.
Methods: It was a quasi-experimental study. Patients entered the study were diagnosed as having spastic cerebral palsy. 12 Children ages 3 to 13 years with GMFcs 2 or 3 and modified Ashworth scores (1+ or 2) whose previous treatment has been conventional were identified from three occupational therapy clinics. Based on the type of KAFO used, participants were divided into two groups: TR-KAFO and conventional KAFO. The children were followed up for four weeks. At admission, spasticity was assessed with the modified Tardieu Scale and sleep quality was assessed with the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children (SDSC).
Results: Spasticity decreased and sleep quality scores improved in the group of patients who used tone reducing KAFO. The mean score of children's sleep disorder scale in TR-KAFO and normal KAFO groups was 45.67±6.377 and 53.17±5.037, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups (P<0.05).
Discussion: Study results indicate that spasticity was significantly reduced in the group using an orthosis that was capable of reducing tone. In addition, the data of the present study provided evidence that a tone-reducing orthosis for a night period improved sleep quality in children with spastic cerebral palsy.
Haitham Ibrahim Faris , Shahznan Hassan Badr , Basim Hasson Hussein ,
Volume 0, Issue 0 (4-2024)
Abstract
Objectives: Lower limb amputation can significantly affect levels of physical activity and ability to engage in daily sports, often affecting independence. This study aimed to investigate the association between physical activity and activities of daily living in humans with lower limb amputation, focusing on the mediating role of level of independence.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Babylon Rehabilitation Center between August and November 2024. A total of 246 samples were collected using purposive non-probability sampling. Data were collected using validated instruments: the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, Nottingham Scale of Daily Activities, and Barthel Independence Index. A data series, including structured interviews, was conducted and analyzed using Pearson’s correlation and linear regression in SPSS 20.0.
Results: The study showed that 75.6% of the members had low levels of physical activity, 68.7% had low activities of daily living, and 77.6% were unable to complete daily tasks. A high-quality relationship was observed between physical activity and daily life (p=0.000). Simple linear regression revealed that independence levels predicted both physical activity (p=0.000) and activities of daily living (p=0.000).
Conclusions: The study highlights the importance of promoting independence as a pathway to improving physical activity levels and functional independence in activities of daily living
Masumeh Bagherzadeh Cham, Mohammad Ali Mohseni-Bandpei, Mahmood Bahramizadeh, Saeed Kalbasi, Akbar Biglarian,
Volume 17, Issue 1 (3-2019)
Abstract
Objectives: Sensory neuropathy is the major cause of ulceration in diabetic patients. Periodical sensory examination is an appropriate method to detect neuropathy and decrease the risk of diabetic foot ulcer. Semmes–Weinstein Monofilaments (SWM) and tuning fork on/off test are widely used to assess pressure and vibration sensitivity. The present study evaluated the inter- and intra-rater reliability of SWM and tuning fork to measure pressure and vibration sensations in diabetic patients.
Methods: Following ethical approval, 34 diabetic patients without foot ulceration were recruited. Feet kit SWM and tuning fork were used for pressure and vibration sensation evaluation, respectively. Measurements were performed twice on the first session with an hour interval to assess within-day reliability and the third one was demonstrated 7 days later to assess between-days reliability.
Results: Within-day Intra-class Correlation Coefficient (ICC) analysis indicated excellent levels of inter- and intra- rater reliability (ICC>0.75) for feet kit SWM in all foot regions and 128 Hz and 256 Hz tuning forks. Excellent between-days intra-rater reliability (ICC>0.75) was also obtained for SWM; however, the ICC of tuning fork was moderate. Between-days inter-rater reliability of SWM and tuning fork were high and poor, respectively.
Discussion: The obtained results indicated that SWM and tuning fork seemed to be highly reliable to measure pressure and vibration sensations in diabetic patients. However, further studies are required to support the results of current study.
Fahimeh Bakhtiari, Mahmood Bahramizadeh, Zahra Safaeepour, Mohsen Vahedi,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (6-2021)
Abstract
Objectives: Flexible Flat Foot (FFF), a common foot deformity decreasing medial longitudinal arch height is often comorbid with subtalar joint pronation causing physical activity difficulties in this population. Among the orthotic insoles prescribed for improving foot function, foot orthoses with medial heel skive technique have a limited research background. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of the custom-mold insole with medial heel skive technique on physical function in FFF.
Methods: Eighteen adults with FFF from the University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences students and staff participated in this study. Custom-Mold insole with medial heel skive was fabricated for all research participants. Physical function in the activities of daily living and sports was assessed by the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), Activities of Daily Living (ADL) subscale (ADL-FAAM), and SPORT-FAAM questionnaires at the beginning of the study and 6 weeks after. Paired Samples t-test and nonparametric tests were used to compare the collected results.
Results: After 6 weeks of using the insole with medial heel skive technique, scores in both ADL and SPORTS activities were significantly improved.
Discussion: Foot function improvement was not found in all of the studies assessing foot function in flat feet after using different orthotic insoles, by different questionnaires or other systems. In this study, foot and ankle function was significantly improved per FAAM questionnaire- which had highly limited use in orthotic interventions in flat feet population- using medial heel skive technique; however, further studies are required to accentuate medial heel skive technique effect on flat feet function by comparing this technique with other positive cast modifications to control the flat foot. According to the present study results, custom-mold insole with medial heel skive may improve physical function in FFF and can be prescribed in this group.
Sama-Sadat Parian, Niloufar Fereshtenejad, Susan Hillier, Ebrahim Sadeghi-Demneh,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (6-2021)
Abstract
Objectives: Ankle-Foot orthoses are used to minimize the impact of weakness in ankle dorsiflexion muscles. The study on different orthotic types defines the optimal design, which effectively improves the users’ mobility. This study investigated the potential benefits and risks of a Dictus-band (flexible orthotic), compared with a thermoplastic (fixed) ankle-foot orthosis on the mobility of individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
Methods: Fifteen subjects with MS and dorsiflexion ankle weakness volunteered in this randomized crossover study. The study participants received either a Dictus-band or a thermoplastic ankle-foot orthosis worn on the weaker leg, compared to barefoot as the control condition. Postural stability during standing, forward reach test, timed up and go test, and walking speed in the 10-meter walking test were compared between the study conditions.
Results: There were no significant differences in the postural stability and forward reach tests between study conditions (P>0.5). When the research participants used a Dictus-band, compared to the fixed ankle-foot orthosis, the time required to complete the timed up and go was significantly reduced [P<0.01; Mean±SD difference: 6.4±1.4; 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 2.7-10.2], and walking speed was increased in the 10-meter walking test (P<0.01; Mean±SD difference: 0.46±0.8; 95%CI: 0.23-0.69). There was no difference in the timed up and go and 10-meter walking test data between the barefoot and Dictus-band conditions (P>0.5). No adverse or safety events were sustained in this research.
Discussion: The present study data provided initial evidence for the lack of detrimental effects of using the Dictus-band in subjects with MS and ankle dorsiflexion deficiencies.
Mojtaba Kamyab, Brendan McHugh, Roy Bowers,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (9-2021)
Abstract
Objectives: Improving the timing and endurance of the deep abdominal muscles, notably transversus abdominis (TrA), is a known protocol for improving spinal stability. TrA is the deepest abdominal muscle, and monitoring its activity is a difficult task. Ultrasound and pressure biofeedback have been employed for monitoring the activity of TrA; however, these methods are expensive, not always available in all clinical settings, and their application requires formal training. The purpose of this study was to examine the use of a broadly known method, i.e., changes in the waist circumference, to monitor the activity of TrA.
Methods: The study was carried out on 14 subjects following a pilot study of 5 participants. The thickness of TrA measured by ultrasound was considered the standard indicator for activity of TrA and was compared with simuObjectives: Improving the timing and endurance of the deep abdominal muscles, notably transversus abdominis (TrA), is a known protocol for improving spinal stability. TrA is the deepest abdominal muscle, and monitoring its activity is a difficult task. Ultrasound and pressure biofeedback have been employed for monitoring the activity of TrA; however, these methods are expensive, not always available in all clinical settings, and their application requires formal training. The purpose of this study was to examine the use of a broadly known method, i.e., changes in the waist circumference, to monitor the activity of TrA.
Methods: The study was carried out on 14 subjects following a pilot study of 5 participants. The thickness of TrA measured by ultrasound was considered the standard indicator for activity of TrA and was compared with simultaneous measurement of waist circumference.
Results: A significant criterion validity between the thickness of TrA and the waist circumference was established (Pearson correlation=-0.71, P=0.001), indicating an inverse relationship between changes in the thickness of the transversus abdominis muscle and waist circumference.
Discussion: This result confirmed the hypothesis that changes in the waist circumference could be employed as a suitable indicator for the activity of TrA.ltaneous measurement of waist circumference.
Results: A significant criterion validity between the thickness of TrA and the waist circumference was established (Pearson correlation=-0.71, P=0.001), indicating an inverse relationship between changes in the thickness of the transversus abdominis muscle and waist circumference.
Discussion: This result confirmed the hypothesis that changes in the waist circumference could be employed as a suitable indicator for the activity of TrA.
Parisa Aslani, Alireza Khaghani, Taher Babaee,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (9-2021)
Abstract
Objectives: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system that is the second leading cause of nerve failure in young adults. One of the clinical manifestations of MS is impaired balance and gait. Ankle-foot Orthosis (AFO) and Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) are the most common rehabilitation interventions to improve the patients’ gait and balance. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the effect of using an FES system and an AFO equipped with FES on the gait and balance of patients with MS.
Methods: This research was a cross-sectional study. The patients were included in the study who were diagnosed with MS, had a score of lower than five on the expanded disability status scale, had a history of drop foot for at least three months, aged 20-50 years, and prescribed an AFO or FES, or both. The participants were asked to wear the FES system to evaluate their balance and ability to walk using the Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest). Then, the participants were asked to wear an AFO equipped with FES, and their balance and ability to walk were assessed again.
Results: The AFO equipped with FES provides more gait stability than FES alone condition (P <0.05). The ability of patients to use the FES alone was greater than using the AFO equipped with FES (P<0.05).
Discussion: The study results showed that the walking ability of MS patients using an FES system is greater than that of AFO equipped with FES. This outcome can be due to the difficulty and limiting effect of using an orthosis on their performance. However, the patient’s postural response during stepping back and forth in the condition of AFO equipped with the FES system was better than the FES system alone.
Shafiq Ur Rehman, Aqeel Ahmed Khan, Muhammad Kamran, Ghulam Saqulain, Hilal Ahmed,
Volume 19, Issue 4 (12-2021)
Abstract
Objectives: This study aims to determine the association of ambulatory and social performance status of transfemoral prosthetic users with their age, gender, and marital status.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 400 transfemoral prosthesis users. A sample was recruited from both genders aged 10-60 years using the prosthesis for at least one year. They were selected using the non-probability convenience sampling method from the Pakistan Institute of Prosthetic and Orthotic Sciences from July 2019 to December 2019. Lower extremity functional scale and short form-36 health survey questionnaire (SF-36) were used for data collection, followed by statistical analysis.
Results: Ambulatory status (as measured by the total lower extremity functional scale) revealed significant association (P<0.001) with age. The highest score belonged to the 10-30 years age group. Also, there was a significant association (P=0.003) with marital status with the highest scores for unmarried ones. However, no significant (P=0.705) gender association was noted though scores were higher for the male gender. As regards, the social performance was measured by SF-36. The findings revealed a significant association (P<0.05) of most domains of SF-36 with age groups, with the highest scores for the age group of 10-30 years. Also, a significant association with the gender with higher scores in females was noted in most domains. In contrast, no significant association with marital status was reported in most domains.
Discussion: Ambulatory status has a significant association with age and marital status with no significant gender association. While social performance has a significant association with gender, most domains had significant associations with age groups. However, no association with marital status was present.
Mohaddeseh Asgari, Taher Babaee, Maryam Jalali, Hassan Saeedi,
Volume 20, Issue 1 (3-2022)
Abstract
Objectives: The main objective of this study was to culturally adapt the original English version of the Physical Activity Scale For Individuals with Physical Disabilities (PASIPD) for the Persian-speaking patients with Lower-Limb Amputations (LLAs) and to evaluate its reliability and construct validity.
Methods: This research was a multicenter cross-sectional and repeated measure study. The cultural adaptation process was conducted according to an accepted international guideline. A total of 197 Persian-speaking individuals with LLA were recruited to investigate the reliability and validity of the PASIPD. Reliability analyses were assessed by Cronbach α and the Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient. The Association between the PASIPD scores and the prosthetic limb user survey of mobility scores was examined to evaluate the convergent validity of the PASIPD. Known-groups validity was assessed based on sex, amputation causes, and amputation levels.
Results: The PASIPD had an acceptable internal uniformity (the Cronbach α of 0.68) and test-retest reproducibility (r=0.70). There was a small correlation between the PASIPD and prosthetic limb user mobility survey (r=0.26; P<0.001). Some items of PASIPD could discriminate individuals with different causes of amputation and sex. Factor analysis extracted four main factors that explained 65.4% of the variance.
Discussion: The Persian version of the PASIPD has acceptable reliability and validity for assessing the physical activity of persons with LLAs.
Mahmood Bahramizadeh, Hanieh Khaliliyan,
Volume 20, Issue 3 (9-2022)
Abstract
Objectives: Lateral ankle sprain is one of the most common injuries to the musculoskeletal system, especially among active people. This injury causes complex complications, such as recurrent sprain because of reduced postural control. Foot orthoses are among the interventions used to improve postural control in this population. This review aims to investigate foot orthoses to improve postural control among patients with an acute or chronic lateral ankle sprain.
Methods: Four electronic databases (Scopus, PubMed, Web of Sciences, and Google scholar) were searched for experimental studies. Articles were selected using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) method. The articles were reviewed for their quality based on the standards for reporting diagnostic accuracy statements and then entered into this review.
Results: The search results in all databases provided a total of 48 articles. After reviewing the documents, we excluded 38 articles that did not pass the inclusion criteria, resulting in 10 remaining articles. Data extraction from population, interventions, and outcome measures was done for these 10 articles.
Discussion: Foot orthoses are effective in improving the postural control of individuals with an acute or chronic lateral ankle sprain. Considering the existence of mechanical and functional instability, foot orthosis which is made to affect the proprioception and follow the biomechanics of the body seems to be the most effective in this field; however, more studies are required to confirm this
Linda Joehari, Fatimah Ahmedy, Vanessa Chua, Farhana Harzila Mohd Bahar, Jamie Joseph, Syahiskandar Sybil Shah, Kang Bee Lee,
Volume 21, Issue 1 (3-2023)
Abstract
Objectives: Multiple limb amputations are an uncommon complication from inotrope-induced peripheral gangrene.
Case Presentation: A 20-year-old lady with valvular heart disease had septic shock secondary to infective endocarditis and required prolonged cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Despite aggressive fluid resuscitation, the patient had triple strength intravenous noradrenaline to maintain hemodynamic stability. On day 5 of post-shock, dry gangrene occurred in distal parts of all limbs, and inotrope was stopped. Although the gangrenous changes were non-progressive, she required a significant degree of assistance with mobility and daily function performance. The patient was counseled for multiple limb amputations to promote walking and hand function through prosthetic restoration. Five months after the event, she had a right transtibial amputation, left Chopart amputation, left wrist disarticulation, and right second, third, fourth, and fifth fingers amputation. Three specific goals for inpatient rehabilitation were independent short-distance ambulation with prostheses, performing basic activities of daily living with adaptive devices, and independent wheelchair propulsion for long-distance mobility using a right-sided transtibial prosthesis, left-sided Syme's prosthesis with Kingsley's foot, right-sided silicone-based cosmetic glove and left-sided body-powered transradial prosthesis.
Discussion: Although an uncommon complication, inotrope may lead to multiple limb amputations secondary to peripheral gangrene. Following amputation, the ultimate rehabilitative goal is to restore the mobility and capacity to perform daily functions through prosthetic restoration, whether walking for lower amputees or functioning hand for upper limb amputees. Prescribing prosthesis in a single limb loss is relatively straightforward, but restoring multiple limb amputations bears many challenges toward successful recovery of walking and functions.
Ali Abdulhussain Fadhi, Ali H Mohammed, Ibrahim Mourad Mohammed, Mohammed Shnain Al, Khulood H Oudaha, Saif Yaseen Hasan,
Volume 21, Issue 2 (6-2023)
Abstract
Objectives: Alzheimer is the most prevalent cognitive disturbance with a high spread rate among the elderly. The current research aims to investigate the impact of cognitive rehabilitation on the memory improvement of Alzheimer disease patients.
Methods: This was a semi-experimental design with pre-test and post-test designs. The statistical population in Baghdad City, Iraq, in 2021 included 60 patients with Alzheimer and was divided into an experimental (n=30) and a control group (n=30). The patient’s cognitive abilities were assessed before the intervention (pre-test), promptly after the intervention (post-test), and 2 months later (follow-up). The experimental group had twenty-eight 45-min sessions of training based on the Montessori method (2 sessions per week). The data were analyzed via the SPSS software, version 19, using the independent t-test and repeated measures analysis of variance. The results had a P<0.05.
Results: The findings of the independent t-test demonstrated no significant difference between the scores of both groups during the pre-test stage (P>0.05); however, the difference was significant during the post-test and follow-up stages (P<0.001). In addition, the findings of the repeated measure analysis of variance indicated a significant difference between both groups’ mean scores in the post-test and follow-up (P<0.001).
Discussion: Cognitive rehabilitation can help patients with memory disorders and positively affect their memory performance.
Coresponding author: Ali Abdulhussain Fadhi, E-mail: alialshamary412@yahoo.com
Hanieh Khaliliyan, Mahmood Bahramizadeh, Reza Vahab Kashani, Mohsen Vahedi,
Volume 21, Issue 3 (9-2023)
Abstract
Objectives: Among the foot orthoses prescribed to improve postural control in chronic ankle instability, foot orthoses designed to affect both types of mechanical and functional instability have a limited research background. In the present study, a type of foot orthosis named the custom mold with a raised ridge around the perimeter was designed, and manufactured, and its effect on the dynamic posture control of the subjects was investigated.
Methods: This study was a quasi-experimental type in which 30 active young people with chronic ankle instability were selected from sports clubs and divided into two groups. One of these groups used custom mold foot orthoses (CFO) and the other group used custom mold with a raised ridge around the perimeter foot orthoses (CRFO). Dynamic postural control of the participants was evaluated before and after one month with the star excursion balance test (SEBT). A repeated measured statistical test was used to evaluate the obtained data.
Results: Both types of foot orthoses increased the reaching distance of the SEBT, but the result of CRFO was significant in this field, so that after one month in medial (P=0.045), posteromedial (P=0.002), and anteromedial (P˂0.001) directions, significant differences were observed between the two groups.
Discussion: The CRFO can put the subtalar joint in optimal conditions and change the amount of input resulting from the stimulation of the mechanoreceptors in the plantar area of the foot, thus increasing the improvement of dynamic postural control; however, more studies are needed to prove this claim.
Coresponding author: Mahmood Bahramizadeh, E-mail: ma.bahramizadeh@uswr.ac.ir
You can also search for this author in: PubMed, Google Scholar
Mahmood Bahramizadeh, Hanieh Khaliliyan, Arash Sharafatvaziri, Ebrahim Sadeghi-Demneh, Lukasz Szarpak, Michal Pruc, Aanuoluwapo Adeyimika Afolabi, Francesco Chirico,
Volume 22, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Abstract
Objectives: Ankle orthoses are one of the interventions used to prevent first and repeated lateral ankle sprains. We conducted this systematic review of the literature to investigate the effect of ankle orthoses on postural control in individuals with acute, chronic, or functional ankle sprains.
Methods: Three electronic databases (Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science) were searched for experimental studies using predefined keywords. We used the PRISMA method to select articles. Initially, the articles were examined for inclusion criteria and then assessed for their quality based on the physiotherapy evidence database scale.
Results: In the initial search, we retrieved 156 articles. After following the steps of the PRISMA flowchart and reviewing the entire text, only 14 reports met the inclusion criteria of this study. We extracted data from population, intervention, and outcome measures.
Discussion: Overall, ankle orthoses were effective in improving the static postural control of patients with lateral ankle sprains; however, the dynamic postural control results were unclear. Since most people who experience lateral ankle sprains have both functional and mechanical instability, ankle orthoses may affect both types of instability and thereby improve postural control.
Dr. Shahrbanoo Bidari, Dr. Faezeh Ghorbani, Dr. Kourosh Barati, Dr. Arman Jalaleddini, Dr. Mohammadreza Pourahmadi,
Volume 22, Issue 2 (6-2024)
Abstract
Objectives: Pelvic belts are prescribed for back and pelvic pain during pregnancy and postpartum. This study reviews level II literature (randomized clinical trials and clinical trials) considering the effect of pelvic belt application on pain and functional disability in pregnant women with pelvic girdle pain or low back pain.
Methods: Two reviewers independently performed a computerized literature search from PubMed/MEDLINE (NLM), Scopus, Web of Science, PEDro and Google Scholar databases. The included studies were agreed upon by the two reviewers, and a third reviewer mediated any disagreements. Data extraction was conducted by the two reviewers and cross-checked by a third reviewer. The quality of each included trial was assessed independently by the two reviewers and scored using the PeDro scale. Any discrepancies in selecting the studies and scoring them were resolved by a third collaborator.
Results: A total of 9 studies met the inclusion criteria and were selected for the systematic review. Four fair- and one low-quality study reported more significant pain reduction by the flexible pelvic belt than the usual healthcare or physical therapy. In two fair- and one low-quality study, higher functional improvement was reported by belt than healthcare or physical therapy. Meanwhile, one high- and one fair-quality study showed no added functional ability in the flexible belt for health care or exercise.
Discussion: The current review suggests using the flexible belt as a practical treatment approach in alleviating pain in pregnant women with pelvic girdle pain or low back pain (LBP) during pregnancy. However, the added efficacy in functional disabilities is controversial.
Dr. Masoud Gharib, Dr. Vahid Rashedi, Mr Mohammad Mohsen Dehghani-Firouzabadi, Dr. Kaveh Haddadi,
Volume 22, Issue 3 (9-2024)
Abstract
The upper limb plays a crucial role in daily life activities, self-care, work, leisure, and social activities. It enables a person to perform essential tasks, such as eating, drinking, writing and searching the environment, leading to increased cognition and intelligence in children. Various disorders in children (for instance, Erb palsy, cerebral palsy, hemiplegia, muscular dystrophy, neuropathy) and adults (such as stroke and central, and peripheral nerve damage) can affect the functioning of the upper limb. While mobility aids exist for individuals with lower limb disabilities, there is a lack of suitable technical solutions for those with upper limb disorders because of structural and joint complications. Minimum muscle strength, at level 3 or higher, is necessary for limb movement, and this strength can be affected by neurological and musculoskeletal disorders, resulting in a limited range of motion or no movement.
Hanieh Khaliliyan, Mahmood Bahramizadeh, Alireza Khaghani, Shahla Mohajeri, Francesco Chirico, Kavita Batra, Lukasz Szarpak, Majid Ansari, Aanuoluwapo Afolabi, Olayinka Ilesanmi, Gabriella Nucera, Hicham Khabbache, Farhad Ghaffari, Arash Sharafatvaziri, Mohammad Taghi Karimi,
Volume 22, Issue 4 (12-2024)
Abstract
Objectives: The foot and ankle complex is crucial in stability, propulsion, and musculoskeletal interactions. Optimizing orthotic interventions in this anatomical region is essential to improve motor outcomes. This systematic review investigates the impact of foot orthoses (FOs) with sensorimotor bars on gait, postural control, and muscle activity in healthy individuals and those with musculoskeletal disorders.
Methods: We conducted an electronic search in January 2024 using the PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases. The article identification, screening, and selection followed the PISMA (the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis) guidelines. We conducted the quality assessment using the PEDro (the physiotherapy evidence database) checklist. Data extraction and synthesis were performed using the Cochrane handbook for systematic review of interventions.
Results: FOs with sensorimotor bars can increase foot external rotation, dorsiflexion, and abduction while decreasing foot eversion. Additionally, they can reduce anteroposterior displacement of the hip, shoulder, and head. Furthermore, significant improvements have been observed in spatiotemporal parameters such as walking speed, stride length, stance time, swing time, and kinetic parameters such as plantar pressure. These orthoses can also impact clinical tasks and decrease center-of-pressure movements.
Discussion: Sensorimotor bars have demonstrated beneficial effects on gait (kinematic, kinetic, and spatial-temporal measures), balance control (clinical performance and center of pressure displacement measures), and muscle activity recording.
