Examinando por Autor "Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena"

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A New Test for Achilles Tendinopathy Based on Kager's Fat Pad Clinical Assessment Predictive Values
(MDPI, 2023) Rodríguez-Sanz, David; Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Ricardo; Sánchez-Milá, Zacarías; Abdelhalim Dorgham, Hend Adel; Ebrahim Elerian, Ahmed; Yu, Tian; Calvo-Lobo, César; Velázquez-Saornil, Jorge; Martínez-Jímenez, Eva
Background This study aimed to check the diagnostic accuracy of a new test to identify Achilles tendinopathy. Study design: Observational study. Methods: Seventy patients recruited from a private medical centre met the diagnostic criteria for unilateral Achilles tendinopathy (age, 45.1 ± 12.7 years; weight, 75.00 ± 10 kg; height, 1.75 ± 0.1 m) and were tested based on both Achilles tendons. Seventy patients with a unilateral Achilles tendinopathy ultrasound diagnosis were tested using David's test. Results: Most (86%) subjects demonstrated Kager's fat pad asymmetry in relation to the Achilles tendon in the complete passive dorsiflexion in the prone position (David's sign). No healthy tendons had David's sign. Conclusions: The presence of asymmetry in Kager's fat pad in relation to the Achilles tendon during complete passive dorsiflexion is strongly indicative of ultrasound-diagnosed tendinopathy. David's test demonstrated a sensitivity of 85.71% (95% CI, 77.51% to 93.91%) and a specificity of 100% (95% CI
A Secondary Analysis of Gender Respiratory Features for Ultrasonography Bilateral Diaphragm Thickness, Respiratory Pressures, and Pulmonary Function in Low Back Pain
(MDPI, 2024) Molina-Hernández, Nerea; Rodríguez-Sanz, David; López Chicharro, José; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Ricardo; Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena; Vicente-Campos, Davinia; Marugán-Rubio, Daniel; Gutiérrez-Torre, Samuel Eloy; Calvo-Lobo, César
The aim of the present study was to determine the gender respiratory differences of bilateral diaphragm thickness, respiratory pressures, and pulmonary function in patients with low back pain (LBP). A sample of 90 participants with nonspecific LBP was recruited and matched paired by sex (45 women and 45 men). Respiratory outcomes included bilateral diaphragm thickness by ultrasonography, respiratory muscle strength by maximum inspiratory (MIP) and expiratory (MEP) pressures, and pulmonary function by forced expiratory volume during 1 s (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC) and FEV1/FVC spirometry parameters. The comparison of respiratory outcomes presented significant differences (p < 0.001), with a large effect size (d = 1.26-1.58) showing means differences (95% CI) for MIP of -32.26 (-42.99, -21.53) cm H2O, MEP of -50.66 (-64.08, -37.25) cm H2O, FEV1 of -0.92 (-1.18, -0.65) L, and FVC of -1.00 (-1.32, -0.69) L, with lower values for females versus males. Gender-based respiratory differences were presented for maximum respiratory pressures and pulmonary function in patients with nonspecific LBP. Women presented greater inspiratory and expiratory muscle weakness as well as worse lung function, although these differences were not linked to diaphragm thickness during normal breathing. Keywords: diaphragm; disability; low back pain; quality of life; respiration; ultrasonography.
Age-based inter-subject variability in platelet and white blood cell concentrations of platelet-rich plasma prepared using a new application to blood separation system
(2022) Trevissón-Redondo, Bibiana; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Ricardo; Sevillano, David; González, Natalia; Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena; Lopez-Lopez, Daniel; Alou, Luis
The benefit of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment is still under discussion. Variations in PRP products, consequence of the lack of a standardised protocol for the multitude of commercially available blood separation systems and the lack of knowledge of the optimal composition of PRP or its suitability for the proposed indication are some of the reasons behind clinical inconsistencies. The impact of inter-subject variability in PRP has received less attention in comparison. The purpose of this study was to determine the inter-subject variability, based on age, in the concentrates prepared by a new blood concentration system. Twenty-six healthy volunteers of both genders (29-93 years) were enrolled. Whole blood (WB) was collected from each participant to prepare PRP using the Easy PRP kit. Platelets and white blood cells (WBC) from WB and PRP were analysed after split population by age; patients younger than 65 years (n = 13) and patients ≥65 years old (n = 13). Among the demographic characteristi
Allergic rhinitis improvement after septorhinoplasty in a sample of allergic rhinitis patients with septal deviation: a quasi-experimental study
(2022) García-Paz, Vanesa; Chamorro-Petronacci, Cintia Micaela; Painceira-Villar, Roi; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Ricardo; Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena; Pérez-Sayáns, Mario; Sarandeses-Garcia, Adolfo; Lopez-Lopez, Daniel
Background: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects almost 30% of the adult population. Objective: To describe and compare the evolution of symptoms in patients diagnosed with AR and septal deviation prior to and following septoplasty (STP). Design and setting: Quasi-experimental study developed in A Coruña University Hospital. Methods: Patients aged 18-65 years who had been diagnosed with AR and septal deviation were recruited. Obstruction airflow was evaluated before and after surgery, by means of anterior rhinomanometry (RNM). Severity symptoms and quality of life were assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS) and the ESPRINT questionnaire, respectively. Results: A total of 50 subjects underwent STP and 42 were included in this study. Their mean age at the time of surgery was 34.16 ± 9.74 years (range 18-64). Significant reductions in mean VAS and ESPRINT were observed after surgery (P < 0.01). These outcomes were considered to represent an overall improvement in qualit
Analysis of Static Plantar Pressures in School-Age Children with and without Functional Hallux Limitus: A Case-Control Study
(2023) Cuevas-Martínez, Claudia; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Ricardo; Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena; Casado-Hernandez, Israel; Turné-Cárceles, Oriol; Pérez-Palma, Laura; Martiniano, João; Gómez-Salgado, Juan; Lopez-Lopez, Daniel
Background: The presence of hallux limitus in adulthood is frequently encountered in clinical practice, generating other biomechanical, structural, and functional compensations in dynamics secondary to blockage of the main pivot in the sagittal plane, the first metatarsophalangeal joint. In addition, the presence of functional hallux limitus (FHL) in school-age children is also increasing. Currently, there is a lack of scientific literature about this condition in the pediatric population, and early diagnosis is necessary to reduce future biomechanical disorders and avoid the development of foot arthritis. The purpose of this research was to identify static plantar pressures in school-age children with and without hallux limitus. Methods: A total sample of 106 children aged between six and twelve years old was divided into two groups: the case group (53 subjects with functional hallux limitus) and the control group (53 subjects without functional hallux limitus). Data were acquired with the participants in a
Assessment and indicators of hallux limitus related with quality of life and foot health in school children
(Frontiers Media, 2023-12-13) Cuevas-Martínez, Claudia; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Ricardo; Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena; Navarro-Flores, Emmanuel; Pérez-Palma, Laura; Martiniano, João; Lopez-Lopez, Daniel; Casado-Hernandez, Israel; Gómez-Salgado, Juan
Background: Functional Hallux Limitus (FHL) is a dynamic foot dysfunction characterized by a limitation of hallux dorsiflexion when the first metatarsal head is under load. FHL plays a role in the development of osteoarthrosis in the first metatarsophalangeal joint (IMTPJ). Forefoot disorders can significantly impact an individual's quality of life, leading to dysfunction and pain. The aim of this project was to evaluate the quality of life of school-aged individuals with and without FHL using the Foot Health Status Questionnaire (FHSQ). Methods: A case-control study was conducted to evaluate the outcomes in paediatric age. A total sample of 116 children between 6 and 12 years old was used to conduct this research. The sample was divided into two groups: (i) the healthy group (n = 58) and the FHL group (n = 58). The FHSQ was completed and the FHL test was performed in a seated position to classify the patients into the selected group. Results: Non-significant changes were observed when the mean values of th
Comparison between virtual and hybrid education for psychological factors and academic stress in freshman nursing students: a case-control study
(Springer Nature, 2023) Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena; Calvo-Lobo, César; Jimenez-Fernandez, Raquel; Rodríguez-Sanz, David; Corral-Liria, Inmaculada; Casado-Hernandez, Israel; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Ricardo
Background: The coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has prompted several changes in the learning methods of students. The purpose of this study was to establish whether a relationship between levels of resilience, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and academic stress in both hybrid and virtual learning education exist. Methods: A descriptive and observational case-control study was carried out in universities that offer nursing designation. A total sample of 140 freshman nursing students was recruited. Concretely, 70 participants were recruited from an university receiving hybrid education and 70 participants were recruited from another university receiving virtual learning education. Nursing students self-reported the following questionnaires: the Rosenberg Self-Esteem scale, the 10 CD-Risk Connor-Davidson Risk Resilience Scale, the Beck Anxiety Inventory, the Beck Depression Inventory and the Academic Stress Coping Scale. Results: Significant differences (P = 0.001) showed higher depression levels for st
Depressive symptoms and their severity in a sample with lymphedema: a case-control investigation
(2023) Monteiro, Ana Júlia; de Labra, Carmen; Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena; Dias, Adriano; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Ricardo; Silva-Migueis, Helena; Cardoso, Paula; Lopez-Lopez, Daniel; Gómez-Salgado, Juan
Objectives: Depression is a condition that can be associated with other illnesses, especially chronic illnesses. Lower limb lymphedema is a chronic, disabling condition that can affect the quality of life and be related to psychological and psychosocial factors that interfere with people's lives. This study aims to characterize and analyze the depressive symptoms and their severity reported by people with lower limb lymphedema and compare them with a matched group without lymphedema. Methods: A case-control study was carried out (n = 80) with participants divided into a case group (40 people with lower limb lymphedema) and a control group (40 people without lower limb lymphedema). Both groups were anthropometrically, sociodemographically, and clinically characterized. In the case group, a characterization of lymphedema was performed. Participants completed the Beck Depression Inventory-II. Results: Individuals with lower limb lymphedema have higher BDI-II scores than the matched group without lymphedema. So
Dry needling of the flexor digitorum brevis muscle reduces postural control in standing: A pre-post stabilometric study
(Wiley, 2023-03-16) Martínez-Jiménez, Eva María; Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena; Mazoteras-Pardo, Victoria; López-López, Daniel; Pereiro-Buceta, Héctor; Calvo-Lobo, César; Rodríguez-Sanz, David; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Ricardo; Navarro-Flores, Emmanuel
There are studies that show the better balance after dry needling in lumbar pain. However, the postural control effects after foot dry needling are unknown. Our objective was to check if dry needling reduces postural control. Eighteen subjects with flexor digitorum brevis (FDB) muscle Myofascial trigger point were evaluated pre- and post-deep dry needling. We measured stabilometric variables in a pre-post study. We have found significant differences in three stabilometric variables: surface with eyes closed (29.36-53.21 mm2 ) (p = 0.000), medium speed of the laterolateral displacement with eyes closed (1.42-1.64 mm/s) (p = 0.004), and medium speed of the anteroposterior displacement with eyes closed (1.30-1.53 mm/s) (p = 0.025). Dry needling therapy application in FDB muscle reduces standing postural control with eyes closed. Keywords: motor control; myofascial trigger point; physical therapy modalities; postural balance; stabilometry.
Effect of foot health and quality of life in patients with Parkinson disease: A prospective case-control investigation
(2022) Navarro-Flores, Emmanuel; Jiménez-Cebrián, Ana María; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Ricardo; Calvo-Lobo, César; Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena; Romero-Morales, Carlos; Lopez-Lopez, Daniel; Palomo-López, Patricia
Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder, characterised by the presence of motor disturbances. Therefore, it can be related to musculoskeletal and orthopaedic problems, particularly in the foot status, that are linked to a negative effect on overall health, mobility and social function. Objective: The aim was to analyse the impact of foot health and quality of life in patients with Parkinson's disease and people without Parkinson's disease, with normalised reference scores, in the light of the values recorded with regard to foot health status and overall health. Material and methods: This is a prospective case-control investigation. A sample of Parkinson's patients (n = 62) including 24 men and 38 women was recruited, and foot HQoL was measured using the Foot Health Status Questionnaire Spanish (Sp_FHSQ). Results: The PD group recorded lower levels of foot health quality of life (HQoL) with lower scores on the Sp_FHSQ in general foot health, general health, physical activ
Effect of foot health-related quality of life in rural population: A case-control study
(Elsevier, 2023-08) Andreo-García, María Victoria; Navarro-Flores, Emmanuel; Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Ricardo; Gómez Salgado, Juan; López-López, Daniel
Background: Foot health problems can affect quality of life and general health producing a source of discomfort and pain. Low levels of foot health-related quality of life (HRQoL) are present in patients with foot disabilities, such as hallux valgus, plantar fasciitis, or minor toe deformities. Objective: The objective was to analyze the foot health status in patients with and without foot problems in a rural population and its relationship with quality of life. Material and methods: A prospective case-control study was developed with a sample of 152 patients, 76 subjects with podiatric pathologies and 76 without, in a rural population. HRQoL was measured through the SF-36 Health Questionnaire in the Spanish version. Results: The case group had a mean age of 49.18 ± 14.96 and the control group 44.16 ± 11.79. Regarding the score of the lowest levels of quality of life related to foot problems, the case group compared to the controls showed: for physical function (79.86 ± 26.38 vs. 92.63 ± 11 0.17, p < 0.001); for the physical role (73.68 ± 41.00 vs. 88.48 ± 27.51, p < 0.0022); for body pain (45.81 ± 27.18 vs. 73.68 ± 41.00, p < 0.035); and for general health (60.36 ± 30.58 vs. 68.71 ± 18.52, p < 0.047). The differences between groups were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test, which showed statistical significance (P < 0.05). Conclusions: In the rural population, people with foot pathologies present a worse quality of life compared to those who do not present foot pathology, especially for the health domains: physical function, physical role, body pain and health general. Keywords: Foot disabilities; Health-related quality of life; Questionnaire; Rural-urban disparities.
Effectiveness of calcaneal osteotomy in surgical treatment of foot conditions: A Prisma statement guidelines compliant systematic review
(2022) Lopez-Lopez, Daniel; Larrainzar-Garijo, Ricardo; Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Ricardo; Bayod-López, Javier
NIH NLM LogoLog in Access keysNCBI HomepageMyNCBI HomepageMain ContentMain Navigation pubmed logo Search: losa iglesias 0 results are available, use up and down arrow keys to navigate.Search Advanced User Guide Search results SaveEmailSend to Display options Full text links full text provider logo Actions Cite Collections Share Page navigation Title & authors Abstract Conflict of interest statement Figures Similar articles References Publication types MeSH terms Related information Grants and funding LinkOut - more resources Int Wound J . 2022 Oct;19(6):1494-1501. doi: 10.1111/iwj.13745. Epub 2022 Jan 25. Effectiveness of calcaneal osteotomy in surgical treatment of foot conditions: A Prisma statement guidelines compliant systematic review Daniel López-López 1, Ricardo Larrainzar-Garijo 2, Ricardo Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo 3, Marta Elena Losa-Iglesias 4, Javier Bayod-López 5 Affiliations Expand PMID: 35077021 PMCID: PMC9493233 DOI: 10.1111/iwj.13745 Abstract Calcaneal osteotomy is a commonly established m
Effectiveness of Custom Foot Insoles to Decrease Plantar Pressure: A Cross-over Randomized Trial Study
(2022) Casado-Hernandez, Israel; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Ricardo; Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena; Cosín-Matamoros, Julia; Calvo-Lobo, César; Rodríguez-Sanz, David; Lopez-Lopez, Daniel; Martínez-Jímenez, Eva
Background: Harderness insoles decrease plantar pressure and reduce the foot injury incidence in sport. The purpose of our study was to analyze the plantar pressure variation in moto riders after riding in a real speed circuit with a custom foot 520 Shore EVA insole. Methods: A crossover randomized trial study was performed (consent no. #050520165316). Riders were assessed by an expert motorsport senior podiatry. The participants' mean age was 35 ± 3.29. Participants completed a 20 min training riding with their own motorcycle in a real speed circuit. Plantar pressures were registered with a baropodometric platform evaluating an Ethyl Vinyl Acetate custom foot insole (CFI) manufactured with 3 mm thickness and 52° Shore A hardness. The Plantar pressures were registered before riding, after riding without EVA insole, and after riding with EVA insole. Results: Total Plantar pressures in right and left foot, and total surface area decrease after riding with EVA insoles. Conclusion: The use of an EVA insole wit
Effectiveness of simultaneous bilateral visual diaphragm biofeedback under low back pain: influence of age and sex
(Frontiers, 2024) Molina-Hernández, Nerea; Rodríguez-Sanz, David; López-Chicharro, José; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Ricardo; Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena; Vicente-Campos, Davinia; Marugán-Rubio, Daniel; Gutiérrez-Torre, Samuel Eloy; Calvo-Lobo, César
Introduction: The aim of the present study was to determine the effectiveness of simultaneous bilateral visual diaphragm biofeedback (BFB) from ultrasonography in conjunction with inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on diaphragmatic thickness during normal breathing and respiratory and clinical outcomes in patients with non-specific low back pain (NSLBP) and determine the influence of age and sex. Methods: A single-blind randomized clinical trial was carried out (NCT04582812). A total sample of 96 patients with NSLBP was recruited and randomized by sex-based stratification into IMT (n = 48) and BFB + IMT (n = 48) interventions over 8 weeks. Bilateral diaphragmatic thickness at maximum inspiration (Tins) and expiration (Texp), respiratory pressures, lung function, pain intensity, bilateral pressure pain threshold (PPT), disability, and quality of life were measured at baseline and after 8 weeks. Results: The BFB + IMT group showed significant differences (p < 0.05) with increased left hemidiaphragm thickness at Tins and Tins-exp (d = 0.38-053), and right and left PPT (d = 0.71-0.74) versus the IMT group. The interaction with sex was statistically significant (p = 0.007; F(1,81) = 7.756; ηp 2 = 0.087) and higher left hemidiaphragm thickness at Tins was predicted by the BFB + IMT group (R 2 = 0.099; β = 0.050; F(1,82) = 8.997; p = 0.004) and male sex (R 2 = 0.079; β = 0.045; F(1,81) = 7.756;p = 0.007). Furthermore, greater left hemidiaphragm thickness at Tins-exp was predicted by younger age (R 2 = 0.052; β = -0.001; F(1,82) = 4.540; p = 0.036). Discussion: The simultaneous bilateral visual diaphragm biofeedback by ultrasonography in conjunction with IMT was effective in both increasing the left diaphragmatic thickness during inspiration, which was positively influenced and predicted by male sex and younger age, and increasing the bilateral PPT of the paraspinal muscles in patients with NSLBP. Keywords: biofeedback; breathing exercises; diaphragm; low back pain; ultrasonography.
Effectiveness of the Lapidus plate system in foot surgery: A PRISMA compliant systematic review
(2022) Lopez-Lopez, Daniel; Larrainzar-Garijo, Ricardo; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Ricardo; Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena; Bayod-López, Javier
Lapidus arthrodesis is an established standard procedure to correct various foot surgery problems and hallux limitus, hypermobility of the first ray, hallux abductus valgus, and symptomatic lesser metatarsal. After decades, many fixation methods in the orthopaedic surgery industry have been developed for decreasing complications and improving this technique. The aim of this PRISMA compliant systematic review is to analyse the effectiveness of several lapidus plate systems in foot surgery. We have carried out the first systematic review of the relevant published literature so as to systematically evaluate the scientific knowledge available now on this association, assigning predefined eligibility criteria. Fourteen studies were selected which had an overall of 738 cases. The first tarsal metatarsal joint and hallux valgus were treated by the application of different types of Lapidus plate system. The optimal level of the fixation in these procedures is related with the type and system insertion place of the pl
Effectiveness of Ultrasonography Visual Biofeedback of the Diaphragm in Conjunction with Inspiratory Muscle Training on Muscle Thickness, Respiratory Pressures, Pain, Disability, Quality of Life and Pulmonary Function in Athletes with Non-Specific Low Back Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial
(Basel, Switzerland : MDPI AG, [2012]-, 2022) Marugán-Rubio, Daniel; Chicharro, J L; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Ricardo; Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena; Rodríguez-San, David; Vicente-Campos, Davinia; Molina-Hernández, Nerea; Calvo-Lobo, César
Diaphragmatic weakness and thickness reduction have been detected in athletes with lumbopelvic pain (LPP). Strength training of inspiratory muscles may be necessary for athletes with LPP. Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) and visual biofeedback by rehabilitative ultrasound imaging (RUSI) have been proposed as possible interventions. Here, we determine the effectiveness of visual biofeedback by RUSI with a proposed novel thoracic orthotic device to facilitate diaphragmatic contraction in conjunction with high-intensity IMT in athletes with non-specific LPP. A single-blinded, parallel-group, randomized clinical trial was performed (NCT04097873). Of 86 participants assessed for eligibility, 64 athletes with non-specific LPP (39 males and 25 females; mean age, 33.15 ± 7.79 years) were recruited, randomized, analyzed and received diaphragm visual biofeedback by RUSI in conjunction with high-intensity IMT (RUSI+IMT; n = 32) or isolated high-intensity IMT (IMT; n = 32) interventions for 8 weeks. Diaphragmatic thickn
Effects of Foot Structure Type on Core Stability in University Athletes
(2023) Moreno-Barriga, Orlando Santiago; Romero-Morales, Carlos; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Ricardo; Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena; Gómez-Salgado, Juan; Caballero-López, Julio; Vidal-Valverde, Liz Carol; Lopez-Lopez, Daniel; MDPI
Purpose: This study assessed the impact of different types of medial foot arch on postural stability and core center of gravity muscle activity among collegiate athletes. Methods: The study sample included 103 university-level athletes across various sports (soccer, rugby, basketball, volleyball, field tennis, table tennis, karate, and cheerleading) from the College of Magdalena (Colombia) who exhibited distinct types of medial foot arch: 32 high, 35 low, and 36 neutral arches. Surface electromyography (sEMG) was employed to assess conduction velocity, magnitude values, latency, and fatigue in focal muscles including the spinal erector (SE), internal oblique (IO), external oblique (EO), and rectus abdominis (AR), while measurements of static and dynamic postural control were also considered. Post hoc analysis was performed with Bonferroni correction for all electromyographically measured muscle groups, as well as for measurements of static and dynamic postural stability. Pearson's or Spearman's correlation t
Effects of neural mobilization of sciatic nerve and its branches in plantar foot pressures and stabilometry
(2024) Martínez-Jiménez, Eva María; Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Ricardo; Rodríguez-Sanz, David; Calvo-Lobo, César; Jiménez-Fernández, Raquel; Corral-Liria, Inmaculada; Pérez-Boal, Eduardo; Navarro-Flores, Emmanuel
Benefits of neural mobilization (NM) have been described in musculoskeletal patients. The effects of NM on balance appear to be unclear in research, and no studies have tested the possible effects of NM on plantar pressures. Eighteen subjects were evaluated pre and post bilateral gliding of the sciatic nerve and its branches posterior tibial nerve, lateral dorsocutaneous, medial and intermediate dorsocutaneous nerves. Static variables of the plantar footprint and stabilometric variables were measured in a pre-post study. We found no differences in plantar pressure variables, Rearfoot maximum pressure (p = 0.376), Rearfoot medium pressure (p = 0.106), Rearfoot surface (p = 0.896), Midfoot maximum pressure (p = 0.975), Midfoot medium pressure (p = 0.950), Midfoot surface (p = 0.470) Forefoot maximum pressure (p = 0.559), Forefoot medium pressure(p = 0.481), Forefoot surface (p = 0.234), and stabilometric variables either, X-Displacement eyes-open (p = 0.086), Y-Displacement eyes-open (p = 0.544), Surface eyes-open (p = 0.411), Medium speed latero-lateral displacement eyes-open (p = 0.613), Medium speed anteroposterior displacement eyes-open (p = 0.442), X Displacement eyes-closed (p = 0.126), Y-Displacement eyes-closed (p = 0.077), Surface eyes-closed (p = 0.502), Medium speed latero-lateral displacement eyes-closed (p = 0.956), Medium speed anteroposterior displacement eyes-closed (p = 0.349). All variables don´t have significant differences however the measurements had a high reliability with at least an ICC of 0.769. NM doesn´t change plantar pressures or improve balance in healthy non-athletes subjects. NCT05190900. Keywords: Foot; Peripheral nerves; Physical therapy modalities; Rehabilitation; Sciatic nerve.
Efficacy of Deep Dry Needling versus Percutaneous Electrolysis in Ultrasound-Guided Treatment of Active Myofascial Trigger Points of the Levator Scapulae in Short-Term: A Randomized Controlled Trial
(MDPI, 2023-04-03) Benito-de-Pedro, Ana Isabel; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Ricardo; Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena; Rodríguez-Sanz, David; Calvo-Lobo, , César; Benito-de-Pedro, María
Deep dry needling (DDN) and percutaneous electrolysis (PE) provide the benefit of the mechanical effect of the needle, and PE adds the potential advantages of the galvanic current it incorporates in myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) therapy. The aim of this study was to compare the short-term efficacy between PE and DDN on active MTrPs of the levator scapulae by considering pain intensity. A simple-blind randomized controlled trial was carried out, recruiting patients suffering from non-specific neck pain lasting more than 3 months and with active MTrPs in the levator scapulae muscle (n = 52). Patients were divided into intervention (PE; n = 26) and control (DDN; n = 26) groups and received one treatment session on the active MTrPs of the levator scapulae. Patients were assessed for pain intensity, pressure pain threshold (PPT), cervical range of motion (CROM), neck disability and post-needling soreness, immediately after treatment, at 72 h and at 14 days. In addition, pain during treatment was recorded after the procedure. There were no significant differences for pain intensity, post-needling soreness and PPT. We found significant differences in CROM, immediately after treatment (p = 0.043), and at 72 h (p = 0.045), in favor of the PE group. Significant differences were found for neck disability (p < 0.047), immediately post-treatment, in favor of the DDN group. Moreover, there were significant differences for pain during the intervention (p < 0.002), in favor of the DDN group (4.54 ± 2.21) versus the PE group (6.54 ± 2.27). PE and DDN appear to have similar short-term effects. PE proved to be a more painful treatment than DDN. Clinical trial registry: NCT04157426. Keywords: clinical trial; dry needling; electrolysis; levator scapulae; neck pain.
Exploring Knowledge about Fang Traditional Medicine: An Informal Health Seeking Behaviour for Medical or Cultural Afflictions in Equatorial Guinea
(MDPI, 2023-03-09) Jimenez-Fernandez, Raquel; Rodriguez Vázquez, Rocío; Marín-Morales, Dolores; Herraiz-Soria, Elena; Losa-Iglesias, Marta Elena; Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Ricardo; Corral-Liria, Inmaculada
This study explores a range of informal health-seeking behaviors, including the use of Fang Traditional Medicine (FTM) for medical or cultural afflictions in Equatorial Guinea (EQ), the therapeutic methods used, the health problems handled, the learning process, traditional medicine user profiles and the social images of Fang Traditional Healers (FTHs). Ethnography was employed as a qualitative strategy using emic-etic approaches. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 45 individuals, including 6 community leaders, 19 tribal elders, 7 healthcare professionals, 11 FTHs and 2 relatives of traditional healers in 5 districts of EQ. FTM offers a cure for malaria and treatments for reproductive health issues, bone fractures and cultural illnesses. Several methods used to learn FTM are based on empirical observation, and without the need for traditional schooling, unlike with Western medical professionals: for example, watching a family member, or the spirits or ancestors, can reveal healing knowledge. Materials from forests, including tree barks and plants, and rituals are used to keep Fang populations healthy; in addition, two rituals known as "osuiñ" and "etoak" (infusions of tree barks with the blood of sacrificed animals) are the most commonly used treatments. In addition, elders and women are the most active consumers of FTM. FTM plays a relevant role in curing medical and cultural afflictions in Fang communities. The informal health-seeking behavior among the Fang community is conditioned by the explanation model of illness. Keywords: Equatorial Guinea; Fang ethnic group; ethnomedicine; health-seeking behavior; traditional healers; traditional medicine.