Introduction Spinal deformities, particularly scoliosis, represent a significant public health concern among children and adolescents worldwide. Although the prevalence of scoliosis has been well-documented in many regions, a critical knowledge gap exists in Albania. This research aimed to fill this gap by determining the prevalence of spinal deformities in schoolchildren aged 10 to 15 years in Tirana (Albania), and to establish baseline data for future public health strategies. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted between January and May 2024 among 2,020 students from nine public secondary schools in Tirana (Albania). Screening involved the Adams Forward Bend Test (AFBT), scoliometer measurements (≥ 7° threshold), and arcometer assessment for thoracic kyphosis. Data collection was performed anonymously to ensure participant confidentiality. Results The study identified a positive AFBT in 383 (19%) of the students. A scoliometer reading of ≥ 7° was recorded in 3.1% of the total study population, which is comparable with international data. Screen-positive trunk asymmetry was more prevalent in female (4.11%) than male (2.38%) students, and was the highest among the 14-year-old participants (6.87%). An inverse relationship was observed between participation in sports and scoliosis prevalence, with a higher prevalence noted among students not engaged in sports (4.47%) compared to those undertaking physical activity (2.60%). Postural scoliosis was more common than structural scoliosis. Thoracic hyperkyphosis, with a mean curvature of 47.81°, was identified in 14.9% of the students. Conclusions This study provides the first large-scale epidemiological data on scoliosis and other spinal deformities in schoolchildren in Albania. The observed prevalence patterns are consistent with international trends, and the findings underscore the importance of implementing school-based screening programmes to facilitate early detection and timely management of spinal deformities.
Introduction Although eccentric hamstring training is widely recommended for injury prevention, existing evidence remains fragmented across diverse sports, intervention protocols and study designs, limiting clear conclusions and highlighting the need for a comprehensive systematic synthesis. Methods The review included 41 peer-reviewed articles identified through searches of the databases from their inception to 10 December 2024. These include randomised and cluster-randomised trials, prospective cohort studies, and systematic reviews or meta-analyses. The research involved athletes who played recreational and professional soccer, rugby, basketball, handball, futsal, sprinting, and other multi-sport disciplines. The study included five intervention types: standalone Nordic hamstring exercise (NHE) protocols; exercise combinations with eccentric and plyometric training; the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) 11+ warm-up programmes; high-intensity interval training with NHE; and remote eccentric training programmes. The research data included participant information, training methods, injury rates, strength measurements, fascicle structure, and athletic performance metrics. Results The Eccentric hamstring training programmes achieved a 50% decrease in hamstring injuries while simultaneously reducing total lower-extremity and knee injuries and improving both strength and fascicle length. Combining NHE with neuromuscular or adductor exercises improved sprint speed, jump height, and dynamic balance. The FIFA 11+ warm-up routine helped prevent injuries among athletes, with a 33% success rate. Conclusions Eccentric hamstring training, particularly the Nordic hamstring exercise (NHE), is an effective way to reduce hamstring injuries and improve strength and performance. Coaches and trainers should include NHE in warm-ups, combine it with neuromuscular or adductor exercises, and consider remote training options to help athletes stay on track.
Introduction Obesity has been linked to adverse postural stability parameters that can negatively impact balance. While studies have demonstrated the benefits of dual-task (DT) training on postural stability, these benefits have not been observed in obese individuals. Therefore, this study aims to compare the effects of DT training with different prioritisation on postural stability in obese individuals. Methods 35 subjects were randomised to one of 3 groups: DT – variable priority (VP), DT – fixed priority (FP), and a single-task training group. Centre of pressure (CoP) sway, CoP range, and reaction time were assessed using a Pedalo®-Sensamove balance device. Balance was determined using the timed up and go (TUG) and TUG-Cog tests, and the Berg balance scale (BBS) before and after 8 weeks of intervention programs. Results The results showed a significant improvement in all outcome variables after eight weeks of intervention (effect of time, p < 0.05), with no significant difference between the groups (effect of group, p > 0.05). When comparing the mean differences in CoP sway, range, and TUG-Cog, statistically significant results were obtained in the variable priority group compared to the fixed-priority group. Conclusions The findings of this research imply that engaging in DT training can enhance postural stability and balance in obese individuals, regardless of whether the instructional set is of the variable- or fixed-priority variety. Nevertheless, these outcomes were not established to surpass those achieved through conventional single-task training regimens.
Introduction To examine the stability of breathing pattern in healthy adults, in sitting and supine positions. An observational single group repeated measures design. Methods Thirty-eight healthy adults (age 31.08 ± 6.56 years) with no reported history of respiratory disease. Resting breathing patterns were recorded over 15-minute periods in sitting and supine using respiratory inductive plethysmography (RIP). For each position comparisons were made: within individual recording sessions, between recording sessions on a single day and between recording sessions on different days. Eight breathing parameters were extracted from raw RIP data: inspiration and expiration time, breathing cycle time, respiratory rate, and the regional percentage contributions of ribcage and abdomen during inspiration and expiration. Results For nearly all parameters across all comparisons in both positions there were: strong correlations, low to moderate within subject standard deviation values, and narrow 95% limits of agreement, with Bland and Altman analysis indicating good agreement. There were no statistically significant differences in cohort mean values. Conclusions Recording breathing patterns in sitting may be a useful alternative to the supine position. Ribcage and abdominal contributions to respiratory movement have sufficient stability to have value as a potential outcome measure for evaluating physiotherapy interventions.
Introduction Information and communication technologies (ICT) are used in tele-rehabilitation to deliver rehabilitation treatments to patients in their homes or other locations. The aim of this research is to determine how tele-rehabilitation intervention affects hemiparetic patients’ cognitive, hand functions, and depression. Methods Thirty hemiparetic patients of both sexes with mild hand dysfunction participated in a randomised controlled double-blinded study design (age was 45–55-year-old); 15 patients in the control group (GB) received a selected hand rehabilitation program, whereas 15 patients in the experimental group (GA) received a tele-rehabilitation intervention. The 9HPT (nine-hole peg test), FMUE (Fugl-Meyer upper extremity), MOCA (Montreal cognitive assessment scale), REHACOM system, and the BECK Depression Inventory Questionnaire were used to evaluate the patients in both groups before and after the treatment program began. Results According to the current study, there was no significant difference between experimental group A and control group B in terms of the 9HPT; however, there was a statistically significant difference in favour of the GA receiving tele-rehabilitation in terms of the FMUE, MOCA, REHACOM system, and Beck Depression Inventory questionnaire. Conclusions Based on the available information, tele-rehabilitation is a useful treatment for hemiparetic patients who have mild hand function impairments and enhance cognition and psychological well-being status.
Introduction The study aimed to determine the effectiveness of the Azrin-Foxx Method and the child-oriented method treated along with routine physiotherapy treatment in the form of exercises that will help in training children, and to see if children with neurodevelopmental delay can be helped to become toilet trained in 4 weeks of intervention along with routine treatment. Methods 30 children of either gender under the age of 5–10 years were included. They were randomly assigned into one of two groups: A and B. Children were assessed based on a bowel diary, the Wingspread Scheme, and the Childhood Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction Questionnaire before and after 4 weeks of treatment. Group A was given the child-oriented method and group B was given the Azrin-Foxx method of toilet training along with routine treatment. Results There were statistically significant results in the number of days without soiling, Wingspread scheme, and Childhood Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction Questionnaire in both groups A and B. Conclusions We found that there was a significant difference between baseline and post-treatment outcomes between the groups, and both methods were useful for toilet training in children with neurodevelopmental delay.
Introduction This study aimed to examine the relationship between the type of visual impairment (TOVI) and balance in individuals with visual impairment, using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Methods This cross-sectional study included 63 participants. Participants completed a questionnaire to collect demographic information and determine the type of visual impairment (TOVI). Inclusion criteria were individuals diagnosed with low vision or blindness, having no neuromuscular disorders, and willing to participate. Participants completed a questionnaire to collect demographic data and determine TOVI (low vision or blindness), followed by a balance assessment using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Statistical comparisons were conducted to examine the relationship between TOVI and BBS scores, including other variables such as sex, age, onset of VI, and history of falls (HOF). Results Significant associations were found between TOVI and age (p = 0.017), HOF (p < 0.001), and injury due to falls (p = 0.003). Individuals with blindness had significantly lower BBS scores than those with low vision (p < 0.001). Among the 34 participants with HOF, 23 were blind, indicating a notably higher incidence of falls. Regression analysis showed a moderate correlation between TOVI and BBS scores (r = 0.503, p < 0.001), suggesting that a greater severity of VI was associated with reduced balance. Conclusions These findings suggest a moderate correlation between visual impairment and balance. Therefore, individuals with visual impairment should be mindful of their balance abilities during daily activities to minimise the risk of falls.
Introduction To evaluate the effects of a 12-month moderate-intensity aerobic exercise program on VO2max, depression symptoms, and secondary health outcomes in late menopausal women. Methods This is a 12-month longitudinal randomised controlled trial (RCT) to assess the influence of a 12-month moderate-intensity aerobic exercise program on cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) and depressive symptoms in postmenopausal women. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the intervention group, participating in structured aerobic exercise, or a control group, continuing their usual activities with no structured exercise. Randomisation will be age-stratified and stratified by baseline severity of depression to have equally sized groups. The 12-month duration is selected in order to detect long-term effects, since shorter interventions would likely have smaller effect sizes for VO2max and depression. The study will be conducted according to the CONSORT statement guidelines for RCTs to promote methodological thoroughness. Results Participants showed a significant increase in VO2max (+2.9 ml · kg−1 · min−1) and a 43% reduction in depression scores by 12 months. Physical activity rose markedly, sleep quality improved (PSQI score dropped from 8.5 to 6.2), and quality of life enhancements were noted across multiple menopause-related domains. BMI modestly decreased, and greater improvements were observed in younger participants and those with more severe baseline depression. Conclusions Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise is a safe, accessible, and effective intervention to enhance physical fitness and psychological well-being in late menopausal women, with added benefits for sleep, weight, and quality of life.
Introduction Music can influence physiological parameters and mitigate psychological distress. The objective of this review was to determine the effect of music listening on HR and BP in patients in the Intensive Care Unit. Methods A literature search of CINAHL, Cochrane Library, ProQuest, and PubMed was conducted. Search limits: human subjects, peer-reviewed, English. Selection criteria: (18+ years) admitted to the ICU, intervention included music, and outcomes included HR and/or BP. Results 182 articles were screened. 18 RCTs met the criteria. PEDro scores ranged 5–8/10. Primary outcomes included HR and/or BP. Significant decreases were found in 9 studies in favour of music intervention. Subgroup meta-analysis of intervention groups showed decreases in overall mean differences (MD) from pre- to post-intervention for HR (n = 11, MD = −3.85 BPM, 95% CI [−6.61, −1.09]), SBP (n = 10, MD = −2.88 mm Hg, 95% CI [−5.09, −0.66]), and DBP (n = 9, MD = −0.99 mm Hg, 95% CI [−2.85, 0.87]). Conclusions There is mixed evidence in support of music listening to improve HR and BP in patients in the ICU. Limitations included clinical diversity across samples, variations in music type and protocol, and the lack of long-term follow-up. Clinical implications favour the use of music listening to lower HR and BP, as small reductions in HR/BP are important for ICU outcomes. Further research is needed to determine optimal parameters to promote the benefits of music on vitals in the ICU.
Introduction Injuries to extremities following trauma are on the rise in developing countries. Often this results in the loss of either the upper or lower limb, in contrast to the Western world, where peripheral vascular disease is the more common cause of amputation. The majority of these patients are the young breadwinners of their families, so early rehabilitation with a good exercise protocol and compliance with the use of a prosthesis can improve the overall outcome in these amputees. The study aims to compare the effects of isokinetic and conventional exercises after the application of immediate postoperative prostheses (IPOP) in relation to prosthesis adaptability and gait in above-knee amputees following trauma. This study will conduct a randomised controlled trial involving patients who are scheduled to undergo above-knee amputation due to trauma, provided they have no additional injuries that could limit their mobility after the application of immediate postoperative prostheses (IPOP). The study will compare two exercise protocols: isokinetic and conventional. Amputee patients in both groups will be tested for strength with a Biodex System 4, their gait pattern with a BTS Smart-DX, and how well they accept the prosthesis using the Questionnaire for Persons with Transfemoral Amputation (Q-TFA) at 6 until 12 weeks following amputation.
Introduction Music students are at elevated risk of postural imbalances and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) due to prolonged, asymmetrical instrument practice. These issues affect both health and performance; however, formal training in postural health remains underrepresented in music curricula. Therefore, this study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of a 6-week postural intervention program designed for undergraduate music students. Methods A quasi-experimental pre-/post-interventions design was conducted with 16 male undergraduate music students (aged 18–23 years). Participants were assigned to either an experimental group (n = 10, 62.50%), which received a 20-minute postural intervention 3×/week for 6 weeks, or a control group (n = 6, 37.50%), which received no intervention. Posture was assessed using the Klein and Thomas/Mayer tool across 5 anatomical parameters. Statistical analyses included Wilcoxon signed-rank test and the Mann–Whitney U-test (p < 0.01; p < 0.05). Results Significant improvements (p < 0.01) were observed in the experimental group across 4 of 5 anatomical parameters: head/neck, abdomen/pelvis, curvature of the spine, and shoulders/scapulae. Postural scores improved from 11.60 ± 1.72 to 7.30 ± 1.42, indicating a shift from ‘bad’ to ‘good’ posture. No significant changes (p > 0.05) were found in the control group, supporting the effectiveness of the intervention. Effect sizes (r = 0.60–0.70) suggest moderate to large intervention effects. Conclusions A 6-week postural intervention can enhance posture in music students, helping address musculoskeletal risks. Integrating postural health education into music curricula could foster well-being and career longevity, but the findings should be interpreted cautiously because of the limited sample and non-randomised design.
Introduction Menopausal physiological and metabolic changes are directly caused by oestrogen deficiency, which has been shown to affect insulin resistance, lipid metabolism, energy expenditure, and the body’s fat composition. An alternative method that is now used to modify body composition and fat is whole body vibration (WBV). The current study sought to ascertain how WBV affected postmenopausal obese women’s insulin resistance. Methods The current study included forty postmenopausal women (aged 53.85 ± 2.83 and 54.20 ± 3.17 in the experimental and control groups, respectively) who were obese and had high levels of insulin resistance. Two equal groups of postmenopausal women were randomly selected. The twenty women in the control group received aerobic exercise and a moderately restricted diet, while the twenty women in the experimental group received the identical control group program plus the WBV approach. Blood analysis, skinfold thickness, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference were evaluated using a skin clipper, tape measure, weight/height2, and the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) at baseline and immediately following the intervention. Results Body mass index, waist circumference, skinfold thickness, Fasting blood glucose (FBG), fasting insulin, and HOMA-IR were all considerably lower in the experimental group following therapy compared to the control group based on mixed MANOVA (p < 0.01). Conclusions In postmenopausal women, WBV decreases BMI and insulin resistance. Therefore, adding WBV to diet and exercise produces favourable effects on BMI, waist circumference, skinfold thickness, FBG, fasting insulin, and (HOMA-IR) in postmenopausal obese women.
Introduction Cervicogenic headache (CGH) is linked to impairments in the cervical region, including muscles, joints, and neural structures. Muscle imbalances can transfer tension to the dura via the myodural bridge, worsening CGH. There is supporting literature on the effectiveness of sustained natural apophyseal glides (SNAGs) and low-load exercises, however their impact on muscle dysfunction and the myodural bridge remains underexplored. The role of the dural tube and its connection to suboccipital muscles, particularly regarding dural tube myofascial release (MFR) is not known. This study protocol will compare the effects of dural tube MFR versus sham release alongside standard therapy on muscle thickness and CGH symptoms. Methods This randomised, open-label, assessor-blinded controlled study will involve 64 individuals (aged 18–50 years) with CGH. Participants will be randomly assigned to either dural tube release or the control group (sham release) with both groups receiving standard therapy (SNAGs and low-load exercises) three times weekly for four weeks. Afterwards, participants will continue home exercises for 12 weeks. Outcomes include ultrasonography to assess suboccipital muscle thickness and flexion-rotation range at baseline and after four weeks. Intensity, frequency, duration, and quality of life will be evaluated at four time points: pre-treatment, week 4, week 8, and week 12. Discussion The outcomes will indicate whether dural tube MFR has an added effect over standard physical therapy care or is merely a placebo effect in managing CGH. A positive outcome may lead to the inclusion of dural tube MFR in physical therapy clinical guidelines, reducing reliance on medications.
Introduction Chronic nonspecific neck pain (CNNP) is a prevalent musculoskeletal disorder that negatively impacts quality of life. High-intensity laser therapy (HILT) has shown promise as a therapeutic resource for managing musculoskeletal pain. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, participant adherence, implementation, and safety of a HILT protocol to inform the design of a future randomised clinical trial. Methods This clinical trial included 21 patients with CNNP, who received two weekly sessions of HILT combined with stretching exercises over four weeks. Primary outcomes included resting pain intensity (RPI), movement pain intensity (MPI), pain pressure threshold (PPT), and neck disability (NDI). Secondary outcomes included cervical range of motion (CROM). Assessments were performed at baseline, post-treatment, and one-month follow-up. Statistical analysis included Shapiro–Wilk for normality, Friedman and Wilcoxon tests for repeated measures, and Cohen’s d for effect sizes. Results Significant improvements were observed in RPI (d = 1.7–1.8) and MPI (d = 1.2–1.4; both p < 0.01), with average pain reductions of 2.6 and 1.8 points (CI 95%:1.9,3.2), respectively, and an average increase in PPT of 1.9 lb (CI 95%:1.5,2.4) (p < 0.05, d = 0.5–1.7). Subgroup analysis showed greater improvements in men, particularly for MPI and PPT. Post-treatment, a mean reduction of 6.5 (CI 95%:5.8,7.2) points in NDI (d = 1.4–1.5, p < 0.01) was observed, with women showing a larger reduction. CROM improved significantly only for flexion and left-side bending (p < 0.05). Conclusions HILT was safe, feasible, and potentially effective in reducing pain and disability in individuals with CNNP. High adherence and absence of adverse events support clinical applicability. Further randomised trials are needed to confirm its efficacy and compare it with other treatments.
Introduction Treatments for low back pain (LBP), such as exercise, neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) and multidisciplinary programs, have been proposed, but their effectiveness is uncertain. This review evaluates the exercise-based interventions, NMES, multidisciplinary programs, and their impact on physical performance, pain relief, disability reduction, and muscle endurance in managing subacute LBP. Methods This systematic review includes randomised controlled trials (RCTs), cohort studies, and clinical trials evaluating interventions for subacute LBP. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in EMBASE, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Scopus, and WOS (from inception until 20 July 2025). The study focused on factors such as participant age, study design, sample size, interventions, functional disability, muscle endurance, and quality of life, and the instruments used to assess them were the ODI (Oswestry Disability Index), RMDQ (Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire), NPRS (Numeric Pain Rating Scale), and endurance tests. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane RoB2, and study quality was evaluated with the PEDro scale and QUIPS tools, by Fleiss-Kappa and Cohen’s Kappa. Results NMES combined with exercise significantly improves muscle strength and endurance (effect size: 0.5–0.9, p = 0.002–0.006). Coordinated care has a 70% recovery rate compared to 50% with normal care (d = 0.5). Structured exercise programs showed significant reductions in pain and disability, with the highest SRM (standardised response mean = 2.85). Supervised interventions demonstrated superior outcomes to non-supervised care (Cohen’s d of 0.65 (RMQ), 0.47 (ODI) and 0.43 (VAS) pain). Conclusions Key findings indicate that NMES combined with exercise significantly improves muscle strength, pain reduction, and disability scores.
Introduction Chronic pain is a highly prevalent condition in older adults and is commonly associated with comorbidities. Interventions such as therapeutic exercise represent the cornerstone of chronic pain management in this population. This review evaluated the effects of therapeutic exercise on older adults with chronic pain. Methods This narrative review was conducted using the PubMed and Web of Science databases. A combination of search terms was employed, including "Older adults", "Aged", "Chronic pain", "Persistent pain", "Exercise therapy", "Therapeutic exercise", and "Rehabilitation exercises". The inclusion criteria comprised controlled clinical trials published in English within the last five years in which therapeutic exercise was the primary intervention for chronic pain in older adults. Results The initial search yielded 33 studies, of which 10 studies were ultimately selected based on the inclusion criteria for analysis in this narrative review. The interventions and evaluations confirm that therapeutic exercise is beneficial for modulating chronic pain in older adults. Conclusions This review concludes that therapeutic exercise in all its forms can positively modulate chronic pain in older adults.
Introduction Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a common inflammatory condition that reduces quality of life (QoL). Erythromycin phonophoresis (EMP) has shown therapeutic potential for CRS. While fusidic acid is effective topically for skin infections due to its antibacterial properties, its use in CRS remains unstudied. To compare the efficacy and feasibility of fusidic acid phonophoresis (FAP) and EMP in CRS based on QoL, pain pressure threshold (PPT) and bacterial reduction. Methods A randomised clinical study with 32 CRS participants (mean age: experimental 39.5 ± 13.0, control 45.4 ± 9.2 years) compared FAP (experimental n = 16) and EMP (control n = 16) interventions, delivered thrice weekly for 10 sessions. Participants and assessors were blinded, and group allocation was performed using the envelope method. Outcomes included the Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-22 (SNOT-22) for QoL, PPT via pressure algometer and bacterial colony counts, assessed pre- and post-intervention. Feasibility was evaluated based on economic factors, ease of implementation, clinical impact, and potential adverse events. Results Normality and variance homogeneity were checked using Shapiro–Wilk and Levene’s tests. Independent and dependent t-tests (p < 0.05) showed significant within-group improvements in FAP (SNOT-22: 23.4 ± 15.0; effect size: 0.72, PPT: −0.49 ± 0.31; effect size: 0.73) and EMP (SNOT-22: 19.19 ± 13.61; effect size: 0.67, PPT: −0.48 ± 0.24; effect size: 0.80) at p < 0.01. Between-group differences were nonsignificant (SNOT-22: p = 0.40, CI: −6.10 to 14.60; PPT: p = 0.89, CI: −0.19 to 0.21), showing no clinical superiority. Conclusions FAP is a feasible and effective alternative to EMP in terms of safety, reduced bacterial growth and tenderness with improved QoL in individuals with CRS.
Introduction Esports is growing rapidly in Indonesia, with players accounting for 43% of all esports players in Southeast Asia. As with other sports, esports players also have the potential for injury. The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors associated with decreased wrist and hand functional abilities in esports players. Subjects and Methods A total of 284 esports players in Indonesia were respondents in this study, with inclusion criteria: active status as an esports player, professionals who play an average of 42 hours per week, amateurs who play an average of 21 hours per week, and willing to be respondents. Data were collected through a questionnaire that included personal data and a Patient-Rated Wrist/Hand Evaluation. Results The results of correlation analysis for gender identity variables ( p < 0.001) show a correlation of 0.321 with the decline in wrist and hand function among esports players. The results of regression analysis for variables aged 17–24 years ( p < 0.001) showed a contribution of 1.8%, and gender identity ( p 24 years, player category, playing time, and career span had no correlation or contribution to the decline in wrist and hand function among esports players.
Introduction The prevalence of male sexual dysfunction is increasing, and physiotherapeutic interventions are important management options. This study investigated the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of physiotherapists about the management of male sexual dysfunction (MSD) in selected Nigerian teaching hospitals. Methods This was a cross-sectional survey of 75 physiotherapists who had worked in a teaching hospital in South-West, Nigeria, for at least two years after graduating, and physiotherapists who might have been involved in the treatment of male sexual dysfunction were among the participants. They were recruited using a purposive sampling technique. The survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire administered via Google® Forms to physiotherapists across selected teaching hospitals in South-West, Nigeria. The questionnaire assessed the respondents’ knowledge about male sexual dysfunction, attitudes towards its management, and their current practices. Descriptive statistics of mean, median, standard deviation, interquartile range, frequency distribution, and percentage were used to summarise participants’ demographic data. Inferential statistics of Spearman’s correlation, Mann–Whitney, Kruskal–Wallis, chi-square and logistic regression analysis were used in making inferences. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Results Respondents comprised 57.3% (n = 43) men with a mean age of 34.51 ± 8.93 years. The median (IQR) scores of KAP were 8(7–8), 11(8–15) and 9(1–10), respectively. More than half of the respondents have good knowledge (52%) and attitude (53.3%) towards the management of MSD while 60% have good practice. There is a corresponding rise in knowledge with every unit increase in age (OR = 1.152, CI = 1.001–1.326, p = 0.049). Compared to physiotherapists with a neurology specialisation, those within the paediatric physiotherapy specialisation were 90.9% less likely to have a positive attitude towards managing MSD (OR = 0.091, CI = 0.016–0.500, p = 0.006). Conclusions The findings showed that more than half of the participants had advanced knowledge of male sexual dysfunction, this knowledge is significantly determined by the increasing age of the physiotherapists, and being a neuro-physiotherapist was a predictor of positive attitudes towards the management of male sexual dysfunction. There is a need for targeted educational interventions and training to improve the knowledge base of younger physiotherapists and their competencies in managing male sexual dysfunction.
Introduction The term ‘fall’ is defined as the unintentional act of coming to a rest on the ground, floor, or any lower level, specifically excluding deliberate changes in position to rest on furniture, walls, or other objects. The World Health Organization has identified falls among older adults as a global health problem, and falls are likely to emerge as a significant public health problem in Sri Lanka. This study aimed to synthesise the literature related to the prevalence, epidemiology, and fall prevention programmes implemented to reduce falls among older adults in Sri Lanka. Methods Older adults over 60 years of age living in Sri Lanka were taken as the population. Falls among those living in community dwellings or institutionalised older adults were considered. Sri Lanka was used as the context. The Web of Science, PubMed, MEDLINE, Emcare, and CINAHL databases were searched via the EBSCOHost® platform, using ‘older adult’, ‘older people’, ‘elderly’, ‘senior’, ‘geriatric’, ‘fall’, ‘accidental fall’, and ‘Sri Lanka’ as keywords. The references identified through the searches were exported to Rayyan, and duplicates were removed. Two independent reviewers performed title, abstract, and full-text screening, and data extraction was also conducted independently by the same reviewers. A third reviewer resolved any disagreements between the two reviewers. Results 91 studies were identified and, finally, nine analytical observational studies were included. Conclusions. The studies were mainly observational, with limited representation from diverse populations. The study highlights the research gaps in fall screening and prevention interventions among older adults in Sri Lanka. Conclusions
