Chris set up a student journal club in his first year of Physical Therapy training. In this blog, he describes how he started the club, how it has changed and expanded throughout his studies, and provides tips and suggested papers to get you started.
How does the literature compare to the actual rehabilitation performed in clinical practice after a meniscal repair?
How does the literature compare to the actual rehabilitation performed in clinical practice after subacromial decompression and rotator cuff repair?
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomized controlled trial assessing the timing of hypertonic saline and airways clearance techniques in adults with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) during a pulmonary exacerbation.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomized controlled trial assessing the effectiveness of land-based versus water-based rehabilitation following total knee replacement.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomized controlled trial assessing the effectiveness of in-hospital physiotherapy for improving physical activity level after lung cancer surgery.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomized controlled trial assessing the effectiveness of individualized manual therapy, in addition to exercises, for treatment of shoulder impingement.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomized controlled trial assessing the effectiveness of preoperative physiotherapy for the prevention of respiratory complications after upper abdominal surgery.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomized controlled trial assessing the effectiveness of balance task-specific training following hip fracture.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomized controlled trial, assessing the effectiveness of an early rehabilitation intervention to enhance recovery during hospital admission for an exacerbation of chronic respiratory disease.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomized controlled trial assessing core stabilization exercises and routine exercise therapy for management of pain in chronic nonspecific low back pain.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomised control trial assessing the effectiveness of aquatic exercise in women with Rheumatoid Arthritis.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a retrospective matched control study assessing the effectiveness of robotic-assisted gait training in stroke rehabilitation.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomized controlled trial assessing Acapella vs. PEP mask therapy for children with cystic fibrosis during respiratory exacerbation.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomized controlled assessing hydrotherapy versus conventional land-based exercise for the management of patients with osteoarthritis of the knee.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomized controlled trial examining the effectiveness of different exercises and stretching physiotherapy on pain and movement in patellofemoral pain syndrome.
Myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) are nodules in a tight band of skeletal muscle which have an exaggerated response to moderate stimuli. These MTrPs are present in patients with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS). This blog critically appraises a randomized controlled trial which assessed the responsiveness of MTrPs to trigger point release massages.
This blog critically appraises a randomized controlled trial which compared spinal mobilization vs conventional physiotherapy in management of chronic low back pain due to disc degeneration.
This blog critically appraises a randomized controlled trial looking at the effectiveness of expiratory muscle training on the pulmonary function of patients with high spinal cord injury.
This blog critically appraises a randomized controlled trial looking at the effectiveness of eccentric exercises in combination with PRP injections versus saline injection.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomized control trial which examined the effect of a preoperative exercise intervention on knee pain, functional ability, and quadriceps strength among patients with knee osteoarthritis before and after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) surgery.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomized control trial which investigates the effects prehabilitation has on quality of life and functional abilities in patients undergoing total knee or hip replacement.
Much research has looked into the use of exercise for patients receiving cancer treatment, however few studies have focused on palliative care. This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) which evaluated the use of a physiotherapy programme to reduce cancer related fatigue in palliative cancer patients.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomized control trial (RCT) looking at the effect of Physiotherapy on shoulder function in patients surgically treated for breast cancer.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomized control trial (RCT) looking at the effectiveness of acupuncture for low back pain.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) comparing the effects of general exercise, motor control exercise and spinal manipulative therapy on function and perceived effect of intervention in patients with chronic back pain.
In this blog, Julie Duncan Millar, PhD Student and Physiotherapist, reflects on the difficulties of comparing and sharing upper limb rehabilitation trial data and proposes a condensed toolkit of measures recommended for researchers to use in future trials.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomized controlled trial which reported that noninvasive ventilation immediately after extubation improves weaning outcome after acute respiratory failure.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomised controlled trial comparing a tailored exercise programme with a general exercise programme for individuals with low back pain and movement control impairment.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) investigating the influence of strength training on quality of life in ischemic stroke survivors.
This blog is a critical appraisal of the following study: Neuromuscular adaptations to long-term progressive resistance training translates to improved functional capacity for people with multiple sclerosis and is maintained at follow-up.
This blog takes a critical look at a systematic review exploring home-based physiotherapy for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomised control trial comparing aerobic interval training with moderate intensity continuous training as part of treatment for patients with myocardial infarction.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a systematic review exploring the benefits of early mobilisation following hip or knee replacement surgery.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomised controlled trial exploring the use of non-invasive ventilation as an adjunct to airway clearance treatments during an acute exacerbation of cystic fibrosis.
This blog takes a critical look at whether using the Wii for balance rehabiliation in patients with acquired brain injury is a safe, effective and feasible intervention.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomised control trial investigating the effects of bed exercises following a total hip replacement.
In this blog, two physical therapy students describe the occurrence of sexual dysfunction that can occur as a result of pelvic pain, and then argue for physical therapy (PT) to be the first line of treatment for this issue.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomized controlled trial investigated investigated whether strengthening the hip and core muscles vs. strengthening knee muscles is more effective for the treatment of patellofemoral (knee) pain.
This blog takes a critical look at the use of functional electronic stimulation for children with cerebral palsy.
This is a critical analysis of a preliminary randomized control trial to determine if using the Nintendo Wii FitTM would be beneficial as part of the rehabilitation of strength, movement and function following a total knee replacement.
This blog takes a critical look at a randomized controlled trial evaluating the efficacy of an exercise program for improving functioning & pain in pregnant women suffering from low back pain and pelvic pain (LBPP)
This blog takes a critical look at whether including adding task-related exercises to standard rehabilation after a stroke can improve patients’ functioning and mobility.
Can including a structured warm-up exercise programme within a training schedule lead to fewer lower limb injuries among youth athletes?
This blog takes a critical look at whether acupuncture or physiotherapy (compared to usual care) can lead to improvements in knee pain & functionality in patients awaiting knee replacement surgery.
This blog takes a critical look at a randomised controlled trial which assessed the effectiveness of a physiotherapy-led exercise programme after total hip replacement.
This blog takes a critical look at whether a general or tailored exercise programme for a subgroup of individuals with lower back pain is more effective.
This blog takes a critical look at the use of acupuncture for carpal tunnel syndrome.
This study critically appraises an RCT, looking at whether Spinal Manipulative Therapy (SMT) is more effective in patients with chronic low back pain when it’s applied specifically or non-specifically to the back pain area.
This blog is a critical appraisal of a randomised controlled trial looking at the effects of additional therapy on young children with spastic cerebral palsy.
Do patients who have experienced deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) have better outcomes when they receive bed rest OR when they get out of bed and engage in light activity (e.g. walking, standing or sitting) as soon as possible after treatment? (Also known as ‘early ambulation’)
This blog takes a critical look at a strength-based training programme for young people with Down Syndrome.
This blog takes a critical look at whether circuit training may be a safe alternative to usual physiotherapy for patients who’ve suffered a stroke.
This blog takes a critical look at a study investigating whether more intense therapy following a neurological event (e.g. a stroke or traumatic brain injury) can lead to a reduction in length of stay in a rehabilitation unit.
This blog looks at the importance of the use of video games or stimulation games for the use in physiotherapy treatment, in relation to aiding patients with proprioception post stroke. It analyses an article looking at balance training post stroke using the Wii Fit balance board and balance games. Reviewing the article and suggesting whether it is relevant or requires further studies or investigations.
Patellofemoral pain syndrome is a common condition that can be caused by multiple factors and can affect quality of life. Rehabilitation involves strengthening of the quadriceps but there is debate about if treatment should focus on being selective to the vastus medialis component of quadriceps. The following is a critical appraisal of a study which investigates if selective strengthening is more beneficial than general strengthening.
Mechanical neck pain is prevalent in the general population. Adjusting the spine (spinal manipulative therapy) is complex and controversial, largely based on the Chiropractic concept of a joint “subluxation”. This blog is a critical appraisal of a study examining the acute effects of a single and multiple level thoracic manipulation on chronic mechanical neck pain.
Jeff critically appraises a study looking at interactive gaming.
In one of my clinical placements in a school we had patients that had developmental delays due to a diagnosis of Down syndrome. The school PT and I would perform motor groups with some of these patients and their classmates before working individually with them. I saw many improvements in their gross motor skills as well as their social skills as a result of the motor group sessions. This led me to want to find more research on the benefits of sensorimotor group sessions as a PT intervention.
Have you heard of accelerated recovery programs, but aren’t sure what they are? Or are you wondering if they are safe and effective? If so, check out this post about the use of accelerated recovery programs following knee arthroplasty.
Jumper’s knee commonly occurs in athletes involved in jumping sports such as basketball and volleyball. Gradual onset of pain at the front of the knee below the knee cap is the most common complaint of patients experiencing jumper’s knee. Jesse appraises an article looking at possible treatments.
Can interactive gaming help improve balance for patients post-stroke? Article appraisal.
The purpose of this study was to compare traditional warm-up routines during practice and competition in collegiate women’s soccer to the experimental program of neuromuscular strength training.
The effectiveness of using an implanted functional electrical stimulation system in an individual with a cervical incomplete spinal cord injury for walking; address the use for the quality and efficiency of gait.
Study appraisal looking at what shoes the US Marines should buy to prevent injury, but there is little evidence that supports one shoe design over another.
Review of an article that incorporates balance into therapy sessions as a means to improve walking after spinal cord injury.
Adam takes a look at possible treatment for chronic shoulder pain, through critical appraisal of a randomized control trial.
Kristian appraises an article looking at manual therapy for sprained ankles.
Rather than opting for surgical procedures, the literature suggests that conservative treatment such as manual therapy, strengthening, and stretching can provide beneficial relief in pain and stiffness, while improving function. Matt discusses.
Jimmy reviews an article on whether manual physical therapy & exercise is more effective than exercise alone in the management of patients with inversion ankle sprains.
A comparison of training protocols for preventing ACL injuries in female athletes.
Physical therapy student Rachel, reviews an article looking at improving walking ability post-stroke.
A comparison of manual therapy to patellar taping in patients with Patello-Femoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)
Keely reviews the research and treatments that are being suggested as the best form of treatments for this type of pain in the study by Balthazard et al.
Can the effects of stationary aerobic cycling help improve ambulation distance and speed with patients who experience a stroke?
Travis critically appraises an article on ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injury in soccer players
An article review about the effects of hip strengthening on treating Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome.
Bryan looks at a study on assessing balance exercise programs for people with Alzheimer’s dementia
A summary of an article investigating whether or not conservative treatment of anterior shoulder instability can help an athlete return to their sport during season, without having to undergo surgery.
Check out how electrical stimulation is being used to help patients walk after a stroke.
Progressive Agility and Trunk Stabilization programs are effective at decreasing return to sport time and the rate of re-injury at 2 weeks and 1 year follow-up, when compared with traditional stretching and strengthening programs.
Improvements in postural instability in patient’s with Parkinson’s Disease
Jackie looks at a study focusing on non-pharmacological treatments for Alzheimer’s Disease symptoms.
Shoulder impingement is a very common and potentially debilitating injury occurring in individuals ranging from young athletes to the elderly. Jeremy looks at study on rehabilitation options.
Amy discusses whether a hippotherapy simulator (therapeutic simulated horseback riding) is effective therapy for children with Cerebral Palsy.
Jessica reviews study looking at variations of therapy for Osteoarthritis of the hip or knee.
Are manual therapy and exercise effective in treating patients with hip and knee OA?
Spasticity (stiffness) is common among patients with spinal cord injuries. This article reviews the effectiveness of body weight supported treadmill training versus tilt table standing to reduce spasticity.
An article review of a study investigating the impact of group aquatic training on gait efficiency in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy.
A critical appraisal of an article investigating the applicability of High Intensity Exercise Training Programs (HIT) on patients in residential care facilities who have moderate-severe physical and cognitive impairments and who are dependent in at least one activity of daily living (ADL).
Is NDT-based therapy & task practice more beneficial in improving walking ability compared to task practice alone in patients post-stroke?
This is an article review of a study done in Germany. The study was a randomized controlled study comparing Nordic walking, LSVT BIG therapy, and a home exercise program for patients with Parkinson’s disease. This study provides great evidence for LSVT BIG therapy. However, there has been limited research done since this study.
A different approach to treating patients with shoulder pain.
At one point in time, I could not tell you what the most fatal and common adult motor neuron disease is. That is because I knew nothing about Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or ALS until just a few years ago.
Kat’s article review discusses Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis a progressive disease involving degeneration of motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord and what muscle exercises can help patients.
The number one cause of disability and reason for absentee with industrialized workers is due to low back pain (USA). Hayley discusses possible interventions…
Pulsatile lavage is typically used in wounds to clean out)the wound to prevent further infection and allow the healing process to take place appropriately.
Elizabeth discusses treatment for low back pain in dancers, through an article review.
Long before beginning my studies as a physical therapy student, I was acutely aware of how much a problem back pain could be…
A quicker fix for acute ankle sprains
Children who underwent SDR as well as physiotherapy and regular follow-ups by an experienced team showed improved motor function for up to 10 years after surgery. This information is very useful when discussing treatment options for children with spastic diplegia.
Low back pain can be frustrating, debilitating, and just plain difficult to treat. Take a look at a research article that examines the effectiveness of manual therapy and active exercise for treatment of low back pain.
Does it really make a difference?
Jennifer takes a look at supported treadmill ambulation for patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
Common injury, common treatment. But does it really help?
Take a look at what an enzymatic de-bridging agent has to offer!
How do you treat pelvic pain….
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