Background. The effects of strength training on independent living skills in persons with paraplegia are unclear. Aim. To examine the effects of 12-week strength training for increasing upper body strength, independent living skills, and physical condition parameters in persons with spinal cord injury. Methods. Preliminary and post intervention (after 12 weeks) testing were performed. The measurements consisted of the following assessments: the assessment of Functional Independence Measure, the assessment of wheelchair control skills, the assessment of physical parameters (strength, endurance, quickness) using field tests. Fourteen persons with paraplegia after complete thoracic or lumbar spinal cord injury participated in the study. Subjects with paraplegia were divided into intervention (7 participants) and control (7 participants) groups. The participants of the intervention group had one hour per training session in the gym (three times per week). The subjects of the control group had no training during the entire period of research. Results. The 12-week strength exercise programme applied to persons with spinal cord injury improved almost all daily living skills in the intervention group, e.g. transferring (control group post intervention 4.3 ± 0.06, intervention group post intervention 6.5 ± 0.08*), moving skills (control group 3.3 ± 0.24, intervention group 6.2 ± 0.49, p = 0.03). Strength exercises had positive effect on independence in respect of wheelchair moving skills, for example: keeping balance, control group post intervention 1.5 ± 0.28, intervention group post intervention 1.6 ± 0.18, p = 0.04); overcoming bigger obstacles, control group 0.42 ± 0.14, intervention group 1.4 ± 0.30, p = 0.02). The 12-week programme improved maximum hand strength (control group post intervention 66.9 ± 3.09, intervention group post intervention 84.8 ± 3.15, p = 0.02), endurance (control group 1.3 ± 0.15, intervention group 2.3 ± 0.19, p = 0.02), quickness (control group 11.2 ± 0.22, intervention group 16.6 ± 0.51, p = 0.03) of persons with paraplegia. Conclusions. The independent living, wheelchair control skills, and physical condition parameters of the intervention group improved after the 12-week strength training programme. Keywords: Paraplegia; independent living skills; strength training
Background. Mental health stigma remains a significant barrier to accessing and sustaining mental health care globally. In Lithuania, stigma is especially prevalent and may influence patient outcomes even within healthcare institutions. Aim. To examine the level of knowledge, attitudes, and experiences of stigma among general practice nurses working with patients who have mental health disorders. Methods. A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted between September and December 2024 using an anonymous online survey distributed through nursing-focused Facebook groups. A total of 280 general practice nurses participated. The questionnaire assessed knowledge about mental health stigma, attitudes towards individuals with mental illness, and experiences of stigma in clinical practice. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and Chi-Square tests. Results. Few respondents reported a high level of knowledge about mental health stigma, and many had not received any relevant training. While most nurses expressed neutral or positive attitudes, stigmatising views regarding treatment adherence and social perceptions were still present. A majority reported that patients frequently experience discrimination. Educational background and prior training were associated with more accurate knowledge and reduced stigma. Conclusions. There is a critical gap in mental health stigma awareness and training among nurses in Lithuania. Despite generally positive attitudes, persistent stigma continues to affect patient care. Targeted educational interventions are urgently needed to improve knowledge, reduce discrimination, and enhance treatment outcomes. Keywords: Mental health; stigma; nursing; patient care; attitudes
Background. Lumbar traction is widely discussed in international literature; however, little is known about its use among physiotherapists in Lithuania. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, application practices, and influencing factors associated with lumbar traction use among Lithuanian physiotherapists. Aim. To evaluate the prevalence, application practices, and influencing factors associated with lumbar traction use among Lithuanian physiotherapists. Methods. A mixed-methods approach was used, including an analysis of scientific literature and a quantitative questionnaire survey of practicing physiotherapists in Lithuania. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise responses, associations between categorical variables were tested using the Chi-Squared Test, and effect sizes were quantified using Cramér’s V. Results. The historical and clinical analysis confirmed that lumbar traction has evolved from primitive spinal stretching techniques into a modern therapeutic method used to reduce pain, improve spinal function, and decrease mechanical pressure on affected tissues. Survey data showed that 12% of Lithuanian physiotherapists use lumbar traction. Education exhibited the strongest association with lumbar traction use (Cramér’s V = 0.316), indicating a moderate effect size. However, no statistically significant associations were identified. Lithuanian physiotherapists most frequently apply manual traction in the supine position, commonly selecting low traction forces (20–30% of body weight). Compared with international practice, lumbar traction is used less frequently in Lithuania, though similarities exist in preferred techniques and the influence of education on clinical decision-making. Conclusions. Lumbar traction remains a recognised treatment modality for low back pain, though its clinical uptake in Lithuania is limited. Application patterns indicate a preference for manual, low-force traction, and education appears to play an important role in determining its use. Further research with larger samples is needed to clarify influencing factors and align national practice with international trends. Keywords: Lumbar traction; physiotherapy; low back pain; spinal rehabilitation; clinical practice
Background. Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) and medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA) have distinct metabolic properties and may influence skeletal muscle metabolism and function; however, evidence is fragmented and inconsistent. Aim. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the clinically relevant and mechanistic effects of MCFA/MCT supplementation on skeletal muscle morphology, metabolism, and function in adult humans and adult animal models. Data Sources. Peer-reviewed studies will be identified through systematic searches of major electronic databases, and reference lists of included studies will be screened to identify additional relevant publications. Participants and Interventions. Eligible studies will include randomised controlled trials conducted in adult human and adult animal models, comparing the effects of oral MCFA/MCT supplementation with placebo oils, usual diet, or calorie-matched controls. Study Appraisal and Synthesis Methods. Risk of bias will be assessed using RoB 2 for human studies and the SYRCLE tool for animal studies. Where appropriate, random-effects meta-analyses will be conducted; otherwise, findings will be synthesised narratively. The certainty of evidence will be evaluated using the GRADE framework. Human and animal studies will be synthesised and analysed separately to distinguish clinically relevant outcomes from mechanistic evidence and to avoid inappropriate cross-species inference. Conclusions. This protocol outlines a transparent and rigorous approach to synthesising current evidence on MCFA/MCT supplementation and skeletal muscle-related outcomes. The findings are expected to clarify existing evidence gaps and inform future research in nutrition and muscle health. Keywords: Medium-chain fatty acids; skeletal muscle; muscle metabolism; muscle function; randomised controlled trials
Background. Professional musicians are at significant risk of upper limb injuries, as prolonged practice and intensive playing increase the likelihood of musculoskeletal disorders and overuse injuries, particularly in pianists. Altenmüller and Kopiez (2010) demonstrated that chronic upper extremity injuries and pain syndromes resulting from intensive piano practice can be successfully treated using multimodal therapy, including physiotherapy, psychotherapy, and modifications of playing technique, enabling musicians to fully restore performance skills. However, there is a notable lack of scientific literature and knowledge regarding physiotherapy interventions for professional pianists, particularly concerning injury management and preventive strategies. Aim. To obtain and compile current evidence on physiotherapy processes and methods used for the management and prevention of upper extremity injuries in professional pianists, and to explore the scope of available approaches in this field. Methods. A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology. A systematic search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCOhost, MEDLINE Ultimate, and ProQuest. Additional sources included books and relevant publications. The PCC framework was applied: Participants – pianists with piano-related upper extremity injuries; Concept – physiotherapy plans and methods for injury management and prevention; Context – clinical, educational, and home settings. Publications in English from the past 50 years were included. Results. A scoping review on the management and prevention of upper extremity injuries in pianists included English-language publications from the past 50 years, along with additional relevant sources. Of 54 identified studies, 45 met the inclusion criteria. The findings indicate that primary risk factors are biomechanical overload, improper technique, and poor ergonomic habits. Conclusions. Physiotherapy plays a significant role in both the management and prevention of upper extremity injuries in pianists. Injury management and prevention involve adhering to ergonomic principles, physiotherapy, and learning proper technique from an early age. Collaboration between educators and healthcare professionals is essential for the long-term health and career sustainability of pianists. Keywords: Physiotherapy; injury prevention; musculoskeletal disorders; biomechanical overload injuries; isometric strength exercises
Background. Even though FIFA 11+ helps lower injury chances in football, findings on how it affects balance during movement remain unclear. What little exists has not been combined in a way that truly compares results across studies – no solid summary of data yet exists. Aim. This work looks at how well the FIFA 11+ method helps football players stay balanced during movement. Evidence from multiple studies was gathered and compared carefully. Methods. A literature search was conducted in the SCOPUS database following PRISMA guidelines. Four eligible studies were selected based on specific criteria, including the use of the FIFA 11+ programme and validated balance tests. Data were synthesised using a random-effects model in Review Manager (RevMan 5.4), with analyses centred on post-intervention outcomes and pre–post differences in dynamic balance performance, to ensure comprehensive evaluation. Results. The pooled analysis of post-intervention values demonstrated a standardised mean difference (SMD) of 0.36 (95% CI −0.18 to 0.89; p = 0.54) for anterior SEBT performance of the dominant leg, indicating no statistically significant difference between the FIFA 11+ and control groups. Heterogeneity was negligible (I² = 0%), suggesting high consistency across studies. In contrast, analysis based on pre–post change scores revealed a significant improvement in favour of the FIFA 11+ group (MD = 5.00 cm, 95% CI 3.29 to 6.71; p < 0.00001). As this outcome was derived from a single study, heterogeneity could not be assessed. Overall, the findings indicate that the effects of FIFA 11+ on dynamic balance are more sensitively detected through change-score analysis than through post-intervention comparisons alone. Conclusions. FIFA 11+ might boost how well players stay balanced during movement, based on before-and-after studies, yet score differences alone do not always show it. How much impact occurs depends on how old they are, how often they do it, and whether they actually follow through with each drill. Keywords: FIFA 11+; dynamic balance; football; injury prevention; meta-analysis
Background. The goal of healthcare institutions is to provide high-quality and safe services to patients. Nursing workload in hospitals is discussed worldwide, as it affects the quality of patient care. Studies show that a low number of nursing staff is associated with a negative impact on patient health. Aim. To assess the workload of nurses working in the Internal Medicine Department of Hospital X in Lithuania. Methods. The study was conducted at the Hospital X. Patient case histories were used in the study, including patients who were treated in the Hospital X from 1 January 2023 to 1 August 2023. Seven hundred and eleven nursing histories were included in the study. A quantitative study, data collection and analysis were performed. The workload of nurses in the Internal Medicine Department of the Hospital X is a multifaceted and essential aspect that requires careful consideration. Results. The average working time of nurses in the entire department, including time spent with the patient, assessed according to the NAS methodology, and performing nursing procedures was 526,099.2 hours (over a 7-month period). It was found that on average, one nurse had to complete 35,073.3 hours’ worth of nursing work over a 7-month period. The hours would equate to 48 months if the tasks were performed according to global recommendations for the duration of nursing procedures. Conclusions. It was found that the workload of nurses is very high. Nurses must perform actions and procedures in less time than they are allocated. Keywords: Nurses; workload; therapeutic; nursing activities score methodology
Background. Constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) is widely used in post-stroke rehabilitation and has a positive effect on motor and functional recovery of the affected hand. However, there are insufficient data on the effectiveness of the CIMT method in early post-stroke rehabilitation. Identification of the most effective methods in different periods of recovery after stroke would allow the prioritisation of rehabilitation treatment and create opportunities to achieve the best results. Aim. To evaluate the effectiveness of the CIMT method on motor recovery, functional capacity, and involvement in activities of the affected hand during early post-stroke rehabilitation (four weeks after stroke). Methods. The study included 18 patients participating in an inpatient post-stroke rehabilitation programme, who were randomly divided into two groups: Group I – the CIMT method was applied in addition to conventional rehabilitation five times per week for 14 days; Group II (control group) – the conventional rehabilitation programme was applied. Assessment instruments included the Wolf Test, Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremity (FMA-UE), dynamometry, Nine-Hole Test (9ST), FNT, ADL / IADL tests and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Results. During the two-week rehabilitation programme, application of the CIMT method resulted in a statistically significantly higher motor and functional improvement and more active involvement of the affected upper extremity (UE) in daily activities (p < 0.05), compared with conventional rehabilitation. Conclusions. Even during a short two-week period of the early post-stroke rehabilitation, CIMT provides strong evidence of effectiveness in improving upper limb motor, functional recovery, and increasing involvement in activities. Keywords: Upper extremity function; performance of activities; involvement in activities; movement restriction therapy
Physical activity (PA) plays a critical role in supporting recovery and improving overall health outcomes in paediatric oncology patients, who commonly experience cancer and treatment related side effects such as fatigue, reduced muscle strength, decreased cardiorespiratory fitness, and an increased risk of long-term chronic conditions. Despite well-established PA guidelines, many children and adolescents undergoing or recovering from cancer treatment fail to achieve recommended activity levels. Barriers include physical limitations, psychological distress, treatment-related symptoms, and limited availability of structured PA programmes integrated within clinical care. These challenges underscore the need for accessible, feasible, and engaging PA interventions tailored to this vulnerable population. In recent years, digital health solutions have emerged as promising tools to support PA promotion and monitoring. Technologies such as augmented reality, gamification, wearable activity trackers, and mobile health applications offer opportunities for remote monitoring, personalised feedback, and increased motivation. These tools may help overcome traditional barriers by enabling flexible, home-based PA engagement and facilitating real-time data collection. However, the extent to which such digital instruments effectively capture PA behaviours and influence activity levels in paediatric oncology remains unclear. This scoping review aimed to address existing gaps in the literature by systematically identifying and mapping the instruments used to monitor PA in paediatric oncology patients during active cancer treatment. Both conventional methods, including questionnaires and observational measures, and digital approaches, such as wearables and app-based monitoring systems, were examined. By synthesising current evidence, this review seeks to provide an overview of available PA monitoring tools, highlight methodological trends and limitations, and inform future research and intervention development in paediatric oncology care. Keywords: Paediatric oncology; cancer; physical activity monitoring; augmented reality; digital solutions; gamification
Background. Palliative care patients with diabetes mellitus often experience foot and nail complications that affect their quality of life and increase the risk of infections and amputations. Proper foot care is an essential component of comprehensive nursing; however, in Lithuania, these services remain fragmented and insufficiently integrated into the provision of palliative care. Aim. To reveal the characteristics of foot and nail care in palliative care for patients with diabetes mellitus. Methods. A qualitative study was conducted using a semi-structured interview method. The study involved nine female participants – general practice nurses with a specialisation in diabetes nursing – who provide foot and nail care services to palliative care patients. Results. The qualitative study revealed that diabetes nurse specialists face challenging working conditions, difficulties related to patients’ physical conditions, a lack of knowledge and training, and limited collaboration with other healthcare professionals. Despite these challenges, they demonstrate adaptability, apply creative solutions, and value the importance of interdisciplinary teamwork. The study also highlighted the need to integrate podiatrists into palliative care teams and to establish clearer regulations for foot care services. Conclusions. To improve the quality of palliative care, it is essential to strengthen the competencies of diabetes nurse specialists, ensure access to specialised training, enhance interdisciplinary collaboration, and integrate podiatrists into the healthcare system. These measures would help reduce the risk of complications and improve patients’ quality of life. Keywords: Palliative care; diabetes mellitus; foot care; diabetes nurse specialist; podologist
Background. Head trauma may cause persistent dizziness and impair balance, mobility, daily activities, and quality of life. Although vestibular rehabilitation is usually recommended early after injury, some patients do not receive timely treatment. Therefore, evidence on delayed vestibular physiotherapy remains limited. Aim. To examine the effects of delayed vestibular physiotherapy initiated approximately two years after head trauma. Methods. A single-case interventional clinical analysis was conducted in a 53-year-old male with chronic post-traumatic vestibular complaints. A 13-week home-based vestibular rehabilitation programme was adjusted according to symptoms and clinical response. Assessment included the Dix–Hallpike Test, Motion Sensitivity Quotient, Berg Balance Scale, Tinetti Test, Timed Up and Go Test, tandem standing, and single-leg stance. Measurements were performed at baseline, during follow-up, at the end of the intervention, and again four weeks later. The intervention included Brandt–Daroff exercises, the Epley manoeuvre, gaze stabilisation, and balance training. Results. Positional symptoms gradually decreased and were no longer provoked at the final assessment. Motion sensitivity decreased to 0 and remained unchanged at re-assessment. Balance and functional mobility also improved over time, and the participant reported no dizziness during positional changes, head movements, or daily activities by the end of follow-up. Conclusions. Delayed vestibular physiotherapy was associated with reduced positional symptoms and improved balance, mobility, and daily functioning in this clinical case. Keywords: Vestibular rehabilitation; post-traumatic dizziness; vestibulopathy; delayed intervention
Background. Down syndrome (DS) is associated with delayed gross motor development, and vitamin D deficiency is frequently reported in this population. However, evidence regarding the relationship between vitamin D status and motor development in children with DS is limited. Aim. To examine the association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels and gross motor development in children with DS. Methods. This analytical cross-sectional study included 33 children with DS (13 females and 20 males) aged 1.00–6.56 years (mean age 2.53 ± 1.06 years). Gross motor development was assessed using the Basic Motor Skills (BMS) Test. Serum 25(OH)D concentrations were measured using electrochemiluminescence on a Cobas® e 411 analyser (Roche Diagnostics). Vitamin D status was categorised as deficient (<20 ng/mL), insufficient (20–29 ng/mL), or sufficient (≥30 ng/mL). Associations between vitamin D levels and gross motor milestones were evaluated using Spearman’s rank correlation and group comparisons. Results. Vitamin D deficiency was observed in 36.4% of the participants, 12.1% had insufficient vitamin D levels, and 51.5% had sufficient vitamin D levels. No statistically significant correlations were found between serum 25(OH)D levels and any gross motor milestone (r range −0.172 to 0.292; all p > 0.05). The strongest correlation was observed for adopting a sitting position (r = 0.292), but it was not statistically significant (p = 0.099). Conclusions. Vitamin D deficiency appears to be common in children with DS, while no significant association was observed between serum 25(OH)D levels and gross motor development in this sample. These findings highlight the need for larger, longitudinal studies to further clarify this relationship. Keywords: Down syndrome; 25-hydroxyvitamin D; vitamin D deficiency; gross motor development; children
Background. Physical health of adolescents is increasingly challenged by sedentary lifestyles and insufficient physical activity in a technology-driven society. Structured, physically demanding summer camps may help improve youth physical fitness, activity levels, and sleep, but evidence on Lithuanian Riflemen summer camps is lacking. Aim. To determine the effects of a Riflemen summer camp on adolescents’ physical fitness, physical activity, and sleep parameters. Methods. Twelve adolescents (age 13.8 ± 1.2 years) attending their first Riflemen summer camp participated in the study. Physical activity (daily step count) and sleep duration were monitored with Xiaomi Mi Smart Band 6 bracelets for seven days before the camp, throughout the seven-day camp, and for seven days after the camp. Physical fitness (90–90 Test, Apley Scratch Test, Sit-To-Stand, Partial Curl-Up, and Single-Leg Stance Test – eyes closed) was assessed on the first and last day of the camp. Results. After the camp, significant improvements were observed in abdominal and lower-limb muscle strength, static balance, and shoulder mobility (p < 0.05). Mean daily steps during the camp reached approximately 12,000, almost double the pre-camp level (~6,500; p < 0.05). Post-camp step counts significantly decreased (p < 0.05) and did not differ from baseline (p > 0.05). Sleep duration shortened during the camp (p < 0.05), whereas after the camp both total and deep sleep time were significantly longer than before the camp (p < 0.05). Conclusions. A structured seven-day Riflemen summer camp may induce short-term changes in adolescents’ physical fitness, daily step counts, and subsequent sleep duration. Keywords: Adolescents; summer camp; physical fitness; physical activity; sleep duration
Background. Modern sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of ocular disorders, while participation in resistance and bodyweight training continues to grow among young adults. Previous studies indicate that exercise-induced changes in intraocular pressure and ocular haemodynamics depend on exercise type, intensity, and breathing strategy, particularly during isometric efforts and the Valsalva manoeuvre (VM). However, evidence regarding the ocular and cardiovascular effects of different breathing techniques during common bodyweight exercises remains limited. Aims. To evaluate the effects of different breathing techniques on intraocular pressure (IOP), ocular and systemic haemodynamics, pain, fatigue, and intensity perception during push-ups and the plank exercise. Methods. The study included 40 physically active men and women (mean age 24.2 ± 5.1 years). Participants were tested before exercise, immediately after exercise, and at 5, 10, and 15 minutes after exercise. Retinal microcirculation was assessed using an “Optomed Aurora” eye fundus camera, IOP was measured with an “Icare” tonometer, arterial pressure was measured using an “Omron BP742N” Series 5 device, subjective muscle fatigue and pain were evaluated using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and exercise intensity was assessed using the Borg Scale. Results. During the static plank exercise, mean arterial pressure (MAP) increased by approximately 4% while breathing, whereas no increase and a slight decreasing trend was observed during the VM. Dynamic push-ups induced a 3–6% increase in MAP immediately after exercise, followed by a decrease at 10–15 minutes after exercise, particularly during the VM. Changes in IOP depended on exercise type: static exercises caused only a slight decrease, whereas push-ups resulted in a more pronounced, transient reduction in IOP, especially at 5–10 minutes after exercise. Dynamic exercises also had a greater effect on the arteriovenous ratio (AVR), due to increased sympathetic nervous system activation. Subjective sensations such as pain, fatigue, and tremor were minimal during the plank exercise, whereas during push-ups the VM tended to increase effort, although the differences were not statistically significant. Conclusions. Dynamic exercises such as push-ups induce greater systemic and ocular physiological responses than static exercises, and the VM amplifies haemodynamic fluctuations and the subjective perception of effort. Changes in ocular parameters (IOP, AVR) are small, temporary, and primarily dependent on exercise type. Keywords: Valsalva manoeuvre; push-ups; plank-exercise; mean arterial pressure; intraocular pressure; retinal microcirculation
Background. Hamstring strain injury (HSI) is one of the most common non-contact injuries in football and frequently occurs during sprinting. Although several studies have examined sprint biomechanics in relation to HSI, findings remain dispersed across epidemiological and laboratory-based investigations, limiting the understanding of how sprint mechanics may contribute to injury risk. Aim. To systematically synthesise evidence regarding the association between sprint biomechanics and HSI in football players, with particular attention to lumbopelvic control, neuromuscular activation, and force-production characteristics. Methods. A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines and registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251248990). Searches were performed in Scopus and PubMed. Studies involving football players that investigated sprint-related biomechanical variables and reported injury outcomes or biomechanical indicators associated with HSI were eligible. Due to substantial heterogeneity in study design, biomechanical measurements, and outcome reporting, findings were synthesised narratively. Results. Six studies met the inclusion criteria, including two prospective cohort studies, one case–control study, and three mechanistic laboratory investigations. Prospective evidence suggested that greater gluteus maximus and trunk muscle activation during sprinting were associated with lower HSI occurrence, whereas increased anterior pelvic tilt and thoracic side bending were associated with greater injury susceptibility. Athletes with previous HSI demonstrated larger fatigue-related reductions in horizontal force production during repeated sprinting. Mechanistic studies consistently identified the late-swing and early-stance phases as periods of elevated strain and activation of the biceps femoris long head. Conclusions. Current evidence suggests that impaired lumbopelvic control, altered neuromuscular activation, and reduced horizontal force production may contribute to increased hamstring loading during sprinting in football players. While causal inferences remain limited by the small number and heterogeneity of available studies, integrating epidemiological and mechanistic evidence provides a framework for understanding sprint-related HSI mechanisms and may inform injury prevention and rehabilitation strategies. Keywords: Football performance; hamstring strain injury; horizontal force production; lumbopelvic control; neuromuscular activation; sprint biomechanics
Background and Aim. The widespread use of social media and short-form video platforms has raised concerns regarding their potential impact on cognitive health in young adults, including mental fatigue, reduced cognitive flexibility, sleep disturbances, and depression. This study aimed to investigate the immediate effects of social media scrolling and reading printed text on cognitive function in young adults. Methods. Nineteen participants (mean age 23.8 ± 2.7 years; 9 females and 10 males) were included. Cognitive performance was assessed using the Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics (ANAM) battery. The 2-Choice Reaction Time and Switching Task tests were administered in a randomised order before and after each condition across three consecutive days (control, social media scrolling, and reading). The social media and reading conditions each lasted 15 minutes. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants. Ethical approval was granted by the Research Ethics Committee (Protocol No. SMTEK-6). No external funding was received. Results. Reaction time decreased significantly following both the social media (p < 0.021) and reading (p < 0.039) conditions, with significant differences observed between conditions in post-task measures (p < 0.003). The total number of correct responses increased significantly only after the social media condition (p < 0.012), with a significant difference between conditions (p < 0.015). Conclusions. Both social media use and reading were associated with improvements in reaction time, with greater gains observed after reading. In contrast, social media use was associated with greater improvements in response accuracy. These findings suggest differential short-term effects of digital and traditional cognitive engagement on cognitive performance. Keywords: Reaction time; mobile phone usage; short-form video; social media; young adults
Background and Aim. Final-year medical sciences students are exposed to sustained academic and clinical demands that predispose them to multidimensional mental fatigue, including sleep deprivation, burnout, perceived workload and sustained attention deficits. Although these dimensions have frequently been examined in isolation, there remains insufficient integrated evidence on how they differentially predict specific academic performance outcomes within a unified analytical framework, particularly in the Lithuanian higher education context. The aim of this study was to examine the predictive relationships between dimensions of mental fatigue and academic performance outcomes among final-year medical students in Lithuania. Methods. A quantitative cross-sectional survey design was employed. Data were collected from 150 final-year health sciences students across selected Lithuanian universities using structured Likert-scale questionnaires measuring four dimensions of mental fatigue and four academic performance indicators. Descriptive statistics and simple linear regression models were conducted using SPSS (Version 27) to test the proposed hypotheses at a significance level of p < 0.05. Results. All four dimensions of mental fatigue demonstrated significant negative associations with their respective academic outcomes. Sleep deprivation significantly predicted reduced class participation; burnout was negatively associated with examination performance; perceived workload significantly predicted lower GPA; and sustained attention deficits were significantly related to reduced assignment completion. The regression models indicated moderate explanatory power, confirming that increased mental fatigue corresponds with measurable declines in academic functioning. Conclusions. Multidimensional mental fatigue significantly predicts academic performance among final-year health sciences students. Institutional strategies aimed at sleep regulation, burnout mitigation, workload optimisation, and attentional support may enhance academic engagement and overall performance outcomes within this population. Keywords: Mental fatigue; sleep deprivation; burnout; academic performance; health sciences students
Background and Aim. The rapid integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) and wearable sensors have transformed elite sports management. However, the impact of multi-dimensional ICT engagement on the unique psychophysiological ecosystem of elite combat athletes remains under-researched. This study aims to investigate the association between ICT usage patterns and interconnected health behaviours, specifically focusing on sleep quality, pre-competition stress, and nutritional adherence during weight-cutting phases. Methods. This cross-sectional study investigated 65 elite combat athletes (N = 65; 76.9% male, 23.1% female), predominantly international-level competitors (86.2%) across different disciplines. The cohort had a mean age of 26.8 ± 4.4 years and 9.2 ± 3.8 years of elite experience. Data were collected through structured, self-administered digital questionnaires of four validated scales: IPAQ-SF (physical activity), PSQI (sleep), PSS-10 (stress), and REAP-S (nutrition), integrated with a Composite ICT Engagement Index (CIEI). Results. Statistical analysis revealed a moderate positive correlation between pre-competition weigh-in stress and sleep difficulty (rₛ = .370, p < .01), while the PSS-10 scale showed high internal consistency (α = .783). Furthermore, high CIEI scores were significantly associated with frequent digital nutrition tracking (p < .05) and elevated perceived application pressure (rₛ = .516, p < .001). Additionally, bedtime screen time was found to correlate with post-competition binge eating behaviour (rₛ = .370, p = .002), and the frequency of vigorous physical activity was strongly linked to nocturnal awakenings (rₛ = .436, p < .009). Conclusions. Digital tools provide essential nutritional structure but simultaneously trigger a monitoring paradox that disrupts sleep in elite combat athletes. Findings suggest that excessive ICT reliance may impair recovery by intensifying application-related pressure and exacerbating weight-cut-induced stress. Keywords: Combat sports; sleep quality; pre-competition stress; wearable technology; digital health engagement
Background and Aim. Patients experiencing low back pain (LBP) often develop chronic, mostly nonspecific LBP. Studies show that, compared to healthy individuals, these patients exhibit increased stiffness of the erector spinae muscle (ESM). For the treatment of chronic LBP, aquatic exercise programmes (AEP) are applied, which are characterised by a lower risk of injury and easier performance of exercises. It has been established that classical massage (CM) can reduce pain intensity in patients experiencing chronic LBP. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of AEP and CM on pain intensity and muscle elastic properties in chronic nonspecific LBP. Methods. Participants were divided into two groups: experimental group (EG) and control group (CG). The EG received AEP and CM. No intervention was applied to the CG. Pain intensity at rest, during movement, and during sleep was assessed using a Visual Analogue Scale. ESM elastic properties were measured using myotonometry. Results. No differences of the EG and CG at the baseline were observed (p > 0.05). Pain intensity at rest, during movement, and during sleep, ESM stiffness and tone decreased in the EG (p < 0.05) and differed from CG (p < 0.05). ESM elasticity in the EG increased (p < 0.05). No significant changes of the variables of CG were observed (p > 0.05). Conclusions. The application of CM and AEP reduced pain intensity at rest, during movement, and during sleep. The application of AEP and CM decreased ESM tone and stiffness and increased ESM elasticity. Future studies should conduct controlled trials comparing the effectiveness of AEP and CM with other physiotherapy methods. Keywords: Aquatic exercise; classical massage; chronic nonspecific low back pain; myotonometry
Background and Aim. Health literacy is a key determinant of health behaviour, influencing individuals’ ability to access, understand, and apply health information. Adequate health literacy is associated with healthier lifestyle choices, improved preventive practices, and more effective use of healthcare services, whereas limited health literacy may negatively affect behaviours such as smoking, physical activity, and vaccination attitudes. This study aimed to assess health literacy levels among adults and examine their relationship with vaccine literacy and health-related lifestyle behaviours. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 587 participants using a structured questionnaire. Data included socio-demographic characteristics, health literacy, vaccine literacy, smoking behaviour, and physical activity. Descriptive statistics summarised participant characteristics and literacy scores. Internal consistency of the health literacy scale was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha. Associations between categorical variables were analysed using Chi-Square tests, while Spearman’s correlation assessed relationships between literacy measures and lifestyle behaviours. Multiple regression analysis was performed to determine whether health literacy and vaccine literacy independently predicted physical activity after adjusting for socio-demographic factors. Results. The mean health literacy score was 86.29 ± 22.04, and the mean vaccine literacy score was 18.29 ± 2.72. Health literacy was significantly associated with gender (p < 0.001), but not with age group (p = 0.453). Physical activity levels differed significantly by gender (p < 0.001), whereas smoking behaviour showed no significant association with gender (p = 0.063). Health literacy demonstrated a strong positive correlation with physical activity (r = 0.717, p < 0.001) and a weak negative correlation with smoking behaviour (r = −0.111, p = 0.007). Conclusions. Higher health literacy is associated with healthier lifestyle behaviours, particularly increased physical activity and reduced smoking. Strengthening health literacy may contribute to improved public health outcomes. Keywords: Health literacy; vaccine literacy; physical activity; smoking behaviour; lifestyle behaviours; public health
