Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation - Volume 4, issue 2

Article Type: Other

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-1994-4201

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 4, no. 2, pp. iv-iv, 1994

Authors: Rucker, Karen S.

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-1994-4202

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 4, no. 2, pp. vi-vi, 1994

Authors: Salcido, Richard

Article Type: Introduction

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-1994-4203

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 4, no. 2, pp. vii-vii, 1994

Authors: Johnson, Ernest W.

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-1994-4204

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 4, no. 2, pp. viii-viii, 1994

Authors: Salcido, Richard | Siebens, Hilary C.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The increasing frequency and prevalence of functionally significant gait disorders in adults requires that more physicians become familiar with systematic assessment and treatment approaches. The classification system presented can help physicians organize their observations and their clinical management of patients with gait problems.

Keywords: Gait, gait disorders, diagnosis

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-1994-4205

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 4, no. 2, pp. 81-90, 1994

Authors: Siebens, Hilary

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Deconditioning is a prevalent problem in our sedentary society and is increasingly contributing to functional mobility problems in older adults. Information about exercise and appropriate exercise programs are increasingly available. Physicians and other health care professionals should identify when deconditioning is contributing to a patient's mobility problem and then assist the patient in developing a new exercise habit.

Keywords: Deconditioning, mobility, functional mobility, exercise

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-1994-4206

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 4, no. 2, pp. 91-96, 1994

Authors: Atchison, James W.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Many studies have been conducted to document the positive effects of exercise in the elderly. Initially, the focus was on the benefits of aerobic training, however, more recent studies have shown that the elderly respond to isometric, isotonic, and isokinetic programs. Strength and mobility are two of the key factors in assessing a person's risk for falling. Studies have shown that people who fall frequently have weaker ankle dorsiflexors and knee extensors than persons who do not fall. As a result, it has been speculated that exercise programs to strengthen these muscle groups will improve functional mobility and reduce the …risk of falling. At present ongoing trials are trying to provide documentation to support this idea. Show more

Keywords: Elderly, exercise, falls, mobility

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-1994-4207

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 4, no. 2, pp. 97-104, 1994

Authors: Jackson, David L. | Hynninen, Brett C.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: More individuals over the age of 55 are becoming involved in athletics and physical fitness. These individuals benefit from this increased activity in a number of ways: improved cardiovascular function, improved muscle strength and functional ability, and less medical care. By following a gradual, low-intensity exercise program, an elderly individual can reap all of the benefits of improved physical fitness with little chance of injury. As physicians who care for elderly individuals, we need to be cognizant of the benefits and risk involved with geriatric athletes.

Keywords: Cardiovascular function, muscle strength, arthritis, injuries

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-1994-4208

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 4, no. 2, pp. 105-109, 1994

Authors: Teasell, Robert W.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Shoulder disorders, typically characterized by pain and diminished range of motion, is a common source of musculoskeletal pain in the elderly. Degenerative changes predominate in the elderly shoulder. Like younger patients rotator cuff and bicipital tendon disorders are common. Unlike younger patients elderly patients are more likely to suffer from shoulder pain as a consequence of a frozen shoulder, polymyalgia rheumatica, degenerative arthritis, referred pain—especially from visceral sources, and hemiplegic shoulder pain. The usefulness of high technological diagnostic tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is very questionable in the elderly because it rarely influences management, which is invariably conservative …in the elderly. Show more

Keywords: Shoulder, elderly, rotator cuff, frozen shoulder

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-1994-4209

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 4, no. 2, pp. 110-124, 1994

Authors: Garrett, Rebecca | Salcido, Richard

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Shoulder dysfunction is a common but complex clinical problem among the aged. The shoulder is a diarthrodial joint that is designed to complement the elbow and wrist in stabilizing the arm and the hand. This complex joint has the greatest range of motion (ROM) of any joint in the human body. Unfortunately, the aging process increases the shoulder's vulnerability to many pathological conditions that decrease its ROM and interfere with self-care tasks. While initial therapy is typically managed by the primary care physician, the complexity of this problem often requires consultation across disciplines to assure pertinent management. This article provides …an overview of rheumatologic considerations specific to geriatric persons with shoulder dysfunction. The differential diagnosis and issues of treatment and rehabilitation are discussed. Show more

Keywords: Shoulder, rheumatologic, rehabilitation, geriatrics

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-1994-4210

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 4, no. 2, pp. 125-134, 1994

Authors: Stewart, Deborah G. | Cifu, David X.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Geriatric rehabilitation is an ever increasing part of the general physiatrist practice. Stroke rehabilitation will continue to make up a large part of that practice. Rehabilitation decreases institutionalization thereby decreasing long run costs. Stroke rehabilitation also improves quality of life and lengthens life. The management of these patients requires expert physiatric care. The most effective and least costly treatment option is still to be determined.

Keywords: Stroke rehabilitation, rehabilitation, cerebral vascular accident, geriatric assessment unit

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-1994-4211

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 4, no. 2, pp. 135-140, 1994

Authors: Costich, Julia F.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: As geriatric rehabilitation confronts major changes in health care funding, investigators and practitioners must identify and validate best practices in the field. Consistent, convincing outcomes research is lacking in several important areas of practice. Lack of scientific support for geriatric rehabilitation approaches is a common criticism at present, and may further jeopardize the availability of reimbursement in the future. It is, therefore, essential that geriatric rehabilitation investigators follow the lead of such influential groups as the Institute of Medicine and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation in developing and defining a public policy-oriented research agenda.

Keywords: Public policy, rehabilitation, geriatrics

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-1994-4212

Citation: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 4, no. 2, pp. 141-144, 1994