Purpose: This review summarizes the existing evidence on the therapeutic effects of neurodynamic techniques on peripheral nerve entrapment syndromes in adults aged 18 years and over. Data Sources: PubMed and three other databases were searched for English-language articles published before May 31, 2024, involving randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of neurodynamic techniques on peripheral nerve entrapment syndromes. Methods: To analyze the quality of assessment, we assessed the risk of bias and the consolidated standards of reporting trials (CONSORT) checklist and summarized the population, intervention, comparison, and outcomes in the selected studies. We further estimated the effect size of the classified studies based on neuromuscular diseases. Results: Carpal tunnel syndrome and cervical radiculopathy were the neurodynamic techniques most commonly used to improve homeostasis in the selected studies. The CONSORT checklist scores ranged from 6 to 25 points. None of the selected studies showed bias in the selection of the reported results. Variables with low heterogeneity in quantitative summation included motor conduction velocity in carpal tunnel syndrome studies and cervical flexion and extension in cervical radiculopathy. Conclusion: The results of this review revealed evidence that neurodynamic techniques improve motor conduction velocity in carpal tunnel syndrome and cervical movement in cervical radiculopathy.

Purpose: This study aimed to analyze research trends in the journal PNF and Movement from 2022 to 2024 and to compare these findings with previous research trends to provide insights into the journal's evolution over the past two decades. Methods: We examined 129 articles published from 2022 (Volume 20, Issue 1) to 2024 (Volume 22, Issue 3). The frequency of keywords was analyzed to identify popular research topics. Information was collected on research types, levels of study, research subjects, diagnoses, applications of PNF, and techniques applied. Results: "Balance" was the most frequently used keyword (6.4%), followed by "gait" (5.4%) and "stroke" (4.0%), while "PNF" decreased to 2.2%. Observational analytic studies were predominant (58.1%), followed by experimental studies (36.4%). Level 5 studies were the most frequent (55%), with Level 2 studies accounting for 31%. Normal subjects represented 37.2% of the study participants, while stroke patients decreased to 16.3% compared to previous periods. The application of PNF interventions continued to decline to 9.3%, with 91.7% of PNF applications shifting toward musculoskeletal conditions rather than neurological disorders. A combination of isotonics and contract–relax were the most commonly used PNF techniques. Conclusion: Over the past two decades, the journal PNF and Movement has evolved from focusing primarily on PNF interventions for neurological conditions to encompassing diverse research topics, methodologies, and clinical populations. The journal has shown a progressive improvement in terms of research level and methodological rigor, with expanding applications of PNF techniques to musculoskeletal disorders. These changes reflect broader trends in rehabilitation science toward evidence-based practice and functional outcome-focused approaches.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare the abdominal muscle activity and thickness of the convex and concave sides of men with mild scoliosis. Methods: This study employed 16 male participants with mild scoliosis (Cobb's angle: 10~20°). We investigated the differences in muscle activity and thickness of the rectus abdominis (RA), external oblique (EO), and internal oblique (IO) on the convex and concave sides according to mild scoliosis. Muscle activation was measured in the curl-up and plank positions using electromyography, and muscle thickness was measured during maximal exhalation using ultrasound. Results: In terms of muscle activation, the RA and IO muscle activities on the convex side were higher than on the concave side in the curl-up position (RA: p < 0.01, IO: p < 0.01). In the plank position, the RA and IO muscle activities on the concave side were higher than on the convex side (RA: p < 0.01, IO: p < 0.01). In terms of muscle thickness, there was no significant difference in any muscle (RA, EO, or IO) between the convex and concave sides according to scoliosis. Conclusion: According to the results, there was a significant difference in abdominal muscle activity between the convex and concave sides according to mild scoliosis. However, in terms of abdominal muscle thickness, there was no significant difference between the convex and concave sides. Therefore, the results of this study show that mild scoliosis affects abdominal muscle function, such as muscle activity, but does not change abdominal muscle structure.

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the effects of squat exercises on balance and gait in stroke patients using a balance pad. Methods: Thirty stroke patients were divided into two groups: the squat exercise with balance pad group (n = 15) and the general physical therapy group (n = 15). The sample size was calculated using the G*Power 3.1.9.7 program. Balance was assessed using the Physiosensing platform by measuring the weight distribution ratio, sway area, and limits of stability. Gait was assessed using the G-Walk system by measuring cadence, walking speed, and step length. Within-group comparisons were performed using paired t-tests and between-group comparisons were conducted using ANCOVA, with pre-intervention values set as covariates. The intervention was conducted 5 times per week for 8 weeks. Results: A within-group analysis revealed significant improvements in all variables in the experimental group, which performed squat exercises using the balance pad. In the control group, which received general physical therapy, significant improvements were observed in the weight distribution ratio, limits of stability, cadence, and walking speed. The between-group analysis demonstrated significantly greater improvements in all variables in the experimental group than in the control group. Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that squat exercises using a balance pad are effective in improving balance and gait abilities in stroke patients.

Purpose: This study evaluated the interrater reliability, measurement error, and concurrent validity of the modified four square step test (FSST) in subacute stroke patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was conducted with 27 participants. The interrater reliability of the modified FSST was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC_2,1). Measurement error was determined using standard error of measurement (SEM), minimal detectable change (MDC), and Bland-Altman scatter plots. The concurrent validity of the SST was examined through correlations between the FSST, the Fugl-Meyer assessment for lower extremities (FMA-L/E), the 10-meter walk test (10mWT), the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and the Timed Up & Go (TUG) test. Results: The modified FSST demonstrated excellent interrater reliability (ICC = 0.987, 95% CI: 0.961-0.995). The SEM and MDC were 0.94 and 2.60 seconds, respectively. The Bland-Altman analysis confirmed acceptable agreement between raters. Significant correlations were found between the modified FSST and the FSST (r = 0.956, p < .001), FMA-L/E (r = -0.629, p < .001), 10mWT (r = -0.729, p < .001), BBS (r = -0.576, p < .002), and TUG (r = 0.764, p < .001). Conclusion: The modified FSST completion time showed significant associations with paretic lower limb motor function, gait speed, balance, and functional mobility. Therefore, the modified FSST is a sensitive and valid clinical tool for assessing functional mobility and dynamic balance in stroke patients.

Purpose: This study evaluated the effects of gluteus medius (GM) and ankle muscle strengthening exercises on muscle activity and static balance in individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI). Methods: Forty-five CAI patients were randomly assigned to the GM exercise group (GE group; n = 15), ankle exercise group (AE group; n = 15), or control group (C group; n = 15). The GE group performed GM strengthening exercises, while the AE group focused on tibialis anterior (TA), peroneus longus (PL), and lateral gastrocnemius (LGCM) exercises. Both exercise programs were 40 minutes long; the C-group did not perform the exercises. Static balance and muscle activity were assessed using the one-leg standing test (OLST). The surface area ellipse (SAE) and muscle activity of the GM, TA, PL, and LGCM were measured pre- and postintervention. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests and one-way ANOVA with Bonferroni post hoc tests. Results: The results showed significant post-intervention SAE reductions for both the GE and AE groups (p < 0.05). The GE group showed a significant decrease in GM muscle activity, and the AE group showed a significant decrease in TA and PL activity (p < 0.05). The quantified change in the SAE from the OLST for the three groups pre- and postintervention was as follows: the SAE of the GE group demonstrated a greater reduction in SAE and GM activity than both the AE and C groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: In this study, adult males' trunk muscle activity was lowest and subjective discomfort smallest with neutral grip while ramp climbing. Accordingly, we suggest that a neutral grip will help improve the function of the muscle skeleton system and reduce subjective discomfort by allowing ramp climbing to take less strain on the trunk muscles and maximize efficiency with less force.

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the reliability of a newly developed wireless surface electromyography (sEMG) device by comparing it to an existing commercial sEMG system in healthy adults. Methods: Twenty healthy adults participated in the study. The sEMG signals were recorded using a newly developed wireless sEMG device (K-sEMG40) and a commercial system (BTS-FREEEMG1000) during maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) and submaximal contractions (40% and 80% MVIC). Reliability and agreement were assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), Spearman's correlation, Bland-Altman analysis, and effect size calculation. Results: The developed device showed high reliability (ICC > 0.85) for MVIC and 40% MVIC, with moderate reliability at 80% MVIC. Strong correlations (r > 0.86, p < 0.01) were found between the two devices. The Bland-Altman analysis demonstrated good agreement, and the effect size analysis indicated small differences between measurements. Conclusion: The newly developed wireless sEMG device demonstrated high reliability and agreement with the existing system, making it a viable tool for clinical and rehabilitation applications.

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the effects of a taping intervention for adults with chronic ankle instability. Methods: A nonequivalent control group pretest-posttest design was used for the study. The experimental and control groups each contained 17 subjects. Subjects in the experimental group underwent the taping intervention, with their range of motion (ROM) and balance ability evaluated. SPSS/PC Statistics 23.0 was used for the data analysis. Results: The degree of ROM and balance ability of the taped experimental subjects was greater than that of the nontaped control subjects. Conclusion: This taping intervention can be used independently by physical therapists as an effective intervention to increase ankle ROM and balance ability for adults with chronic ankle instability, which would contribute to expanding the realm of physical therapists.

Purpose: This study aimed to compare and analyze the effects of elastic and nonelastic taping on proprioception for wrist joint stability. Methods: Thirty-five participants were recruited, and after excluding two dropouts, 32 participants completed the study in a single-group design. Evaluations of force sense and joint position sense were conducted under three conditions: no tape, elastic taping, and nonelastic taping. The results were then compared and analyzed. Results: There was no significant difference in joint position sense during wrist flexion among the interventions (p >.05). However, joint position sense during wrist extension showed a significant difference with both elastic and non-elastic taping compared to the no tape condition (p < 0.05), but no significant difference was found between the two taping methods (p > .05). Force sense showed no significant differences among the interventions (p > .05). Conclusion: The findings suggest that taping may contribute to enhancing joint position sense by increasing joint stability, particularly emphasizing the role of mechanoreceptor activation during wrist extension. Given these benefits, taping may be helpful as an adjunct to wrist rehabilitation.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of respiratory exercise with gamification on the respiratory function, vital signs, mechanical muscle properties, exercise satisfaction, exercise adherence, and exercise commitment of university student smokers. Methods: Thirty-two university student smokers were divided into two groups: smokers with gamification (SG; n=17) and smokers without (no) gamification (SNG; n=15). Respiratory exercises involving balloon blowing were applied to both the SG and SNG groups, and gamification was applied only to the SG group. The respiratory exercise program was conducted 3 times a week for 2 weeks. Respiratory function, vital signs, and mechanical muscle properties (muscle frequency, stiffness, and decrement) were measured before and after the intervention. Exercise satisfaction, adherence, and commitment were measured only after the intervention. Results: The values of forced vital capacity increased in both the SG and SNG groups but were not significant (p > 0.05). The change in balloon size increased significantly only in the SG group (p < 0.05). Moreover, in the SG group, muscle frequency, stiffness, and decrement in the rectus abdominis and external oblique abdominis increased. Exercise satisfaction, adherence, and commitment were higher in the SG group than in the SNG group, but not significantly (p > 0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, respiratory exercise with gamification increased exercise satisfaction, adherence, and commitment among university student smokers. In this regard, it would have improved respiratory function, vital signs, and mechanical muscle properties. Therefore, we suggest that respiratory exercises with gamification could be a useful intervention for treating patients.

Purpose: This study aimed to analyze the correlation between the shoulder-to-step width ratio (SSWR) and changes in stability indicators under different base of support (BoS) conditions. Specifically, it focused on the difference values of stability indicators between a natural step width condition and a narrow stance condition (feet together) to indirectly assess neuromuscular adaptability to changes in the BoS. Methods: Twenty-three adults from K University in Busan and C University in Ulsan participated. Individuals with no musculoskeletal, neurological, visual, or vestibular disorders during the past 3 months were included. Step width was measured by participants walking barefoot over a 10-meter path with inked soles, and shoulder width was measured between the acromions and averaged across the three trials. Dynamic stability was assessed by measuring COP displacement during 8-second weight shifts in four directions. Static stability was evaluated during a 30-second standing task by analyzing COP displacement, 90% confidence ellipse area, velocity variability, and X/Y-axis displacement variability. The main analysis examined the differences in stability indicators between step-width and feet-together conditions and correlated these with SSWR. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS 25.0 (α=0.05, power=80%). Results: SSWR showed a significant positive correlation with lateral COP displacement differences in dynamic stability and a negative correlation with static stability indicators, such as total COP displacement, 90% ellipse area, velocity, and X-axis variability. Conclusion: Higher SSWR values were associated with reduced stability under narrow BoS, suggesting limited neuromuscular adaptability. These results highlight the need for stability training across various BoS conditions to improve balance control.

Purpose: This study aimed to compare the patterns of motor function recovery in patients with pontine stroke based on the type of paralysis and to provide insights for clinical rehabilitation strategies. Methods: Twenty-six patients with quadriplegia (QP) or hemiplegia (HP) due to a pontine stroke participated in the study. Motor function was assessed at four time points from onset to 6 months poststroke using the Motricity Index (MI), Modified Brunnstrom Classification (MBC), and Functional Ambulation Category (FAC). Statistical analyses were performed using the Friedman test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results: The QP and HP groups both showed significant motor function recovery over 6 months (p < 0.05). However, in terms of the FAC, the HP group demonstrated superior recovery compared to the QP group. At 6 months poststroke, all HP patients were able to walk independently, whereas only six out of 16 QP patients achieved independent ambulation. No significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of upper and lower limb strength or hand function recovery. Conclusion: Motor function recovery patterns in pontine stroke patients varied depending on the type of paralysis. Notably, gait function recovery was more pronounced in the HP group, suggesting the necessity of tailored rehabilitation approaches based on paralysis type. Future studies should include larger sample sizes and long-term follow-up to develop more precise rehabilitation strategies.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of a modified toe-spread-out (MTSO) exercise and a proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) leg pattern-emphasized hallux abduction exercise on the thickness of the abductor hallucis (AbH) muscle, plantar pressure, and balance control ability in individuals with hallux valgus. Methods: The sample size was determined based on the results of a pilot study, with an effect size of 1.33, a statistical power of 0.8, and a significance level of 0.05. Twenty participants were required, and, considering a 20% dropout rate, 24 participants were recruited. The participants were randomly assigned to either the MTSO group (n=12) or the PNF group (n=12). AbH muscle thickness, balance control ability, and plantar pressure were measured before and after the exercise interventions. Each exercise was performed for 12 minutes. Results: The MTSO and PNF exercises both resulted in significant improvements in AbH muscle thickness and hallux pressure compared to the pre-exercise measurements. However, there were no significant differences in AbH muscle thickness, balance control ability, or plantar pressure between the PNF and MTSO exercises. Additionally, the PNF exercise demonstrated a higher effect size for AbH muscle thickness (Cohen's d=0.94) and hallux pressure (d=1.11) than the modified TSO exercise (d=0.75 and 1.03, respectively). Conclusion: The PNF leg pattern-emphasized hallux abduction exercise may be considered an effective method for optimizing AbH muscle thickness and hallux pressure in individuals with hallux valgus.

Purpose: The aim of this preliminary study was to investigate differences in the duration of health service utilization according to the characteristics of patients with nonspecific neck pain using a nationwide sample based on National Health Insurance Sharing Service data. Methods: Medical records spanning 20 years (2002-2021) were extracted for 527,522 individuals (5% random sample) with neck pain (M54.2). Independent variables included age, sex, insurance type, income level, and regional healthcare vulnerability. A one-way ANOVA was used to analyze the differences in healthcare utilization durations. Results: Healthcare utilization durations increased with age (20s: 4.1 days, 60s: 6.3 days; p < 0.05). Females showed longer durations than males (5.6 vs. 4.6 days; p < 0.05). Medical aid beneficiaries utilized services significantly longer than workplace subscribers (7.5 vs. 4.5 days; p < 0.05). Those in the lowest income groups and in medically vulnerable regions showed extended durations (5.7 and 5.9 days, respectively; p < 0.05). Notably, 77.1% of patients used services for 5 days or fewer, with 38.7% visiting only once. Conclusion: Socioeconomic factors and geographic accessibility significantly influence healthcare utilization for neck pain. The shorter durations observed among workplace subscribers may reflect premature treatment termination due to work pressures rather than recovery. These findings provide evidence for developing targeted interventions that consider patient-specific factors to improve neck pain management.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of apparatus-based Pilates hip abductor exercises and conventional hip abductor exercises on hip abductor strength, static balance, and gait ability in patients with chronic stroke. Methods: Eighteen patients with chronic stroke were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (n=9), which performed apparatus-based Pilates hip abductor exercises, or the control group (n=9), which performed conventional bridge exercises. The intervention was conducted for 10 minutes per session, 3 times a week, for a total of 18 sessions over 6 weeks. Hip abductor strength, sway path of center of pressure, gait speed, and dynamic gait index were evaluated before and after the intervention. A Mann-Whitney U test was used for between-group comparisons, and a Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used for within-group comparisons. In addition, effect sizes were calculated to evaluate the magnitude of the intervention effects. Results: The statistical analysis demonstrated significant differences between the groups in all variables following the intervention (p < 0.05). Moreover, within-group comparisons also demonstrated significant improvements from pre- to postintervention in both groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that apparatus-based Pilates hip abductor exercise is an effective intervention for improving hip abductor strength, static balance, and gait ability in patients with chronic stroke.