• Physical Therapy Rehabilitation Science
• /
• v.9 no.4
• /
• pp.302-308
• /
• 2020

Objective: The endurance and strength of deep neck flexor (DNF) muscles have a major role on the function and stability of the cervical spine. In recent years, there has been a lack of research that have investigated the muscle tone of the superficial neck muscles. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship of between contraction ratio of the DNF and sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscles, DNF endurance, and muscle tension of the neck muscles. Design: Cross-sectional study. Methods: Forty-seven subjects (male=20, female=27) participated in this study. The muscle tone of the upper trapezius (UT), SCM, and suboccipital (SO) muscle was measured using a contact soft tissue tone-measuring instrument. For the contraction ratio of the SCM and longus colli muscle, the thickness of the relaxation and maximum contraction state of the SCM and longus colli muscles were assessed using a diagnostic ultrasound measuring instrument and a pressure biofeedback unit. The deep neck flexor endurance test (DNFET) was performed in a cranio-cervical flexion posture. The correlations between the measured variables were investigated. Results: The relationship between the DNFET and SO tone showed a significant negative correlation (p<0.05). The relationship between the DNFET and contraction ratio showed a significant positive correlation (p<0.01). There was no significant correlation between the DNFET and SCM and UT tone. Conclusions: This study confirmed that there is a relationship between DNF endurance, DNF activation, and SO tone. The information on the results of this study may be used as a reference that can be actively applied in the clinical environment.

• Journal of Korean Clinical Nursing Research
• /
• v.26 no.3
• /
• pp.296-304
• /
• 2020

Purpose: This study was conducted to demonstrate objective stability of postoperative pain management status managed by nurse-based, anesthesiologist-supervised Acute Pain Service (APS). Methods: A retrospective descriptive review was conducted with 5,748 patients who had used intravenous Patient Controlled Analgesia (PCA) from January to December 2017. Data were analyzed using descriptive statics, Frequency analysis, ANOVA, Cross tabulation with χ2test, and Correlation coefficient. Results: As the APS nurse's education date increased, the period of using PCA was statistically significantly longer, and the period of stopping PCA while using it became shorter (p<.001). Statistically significant, the most painful operations were extremities, spine, upper abdomen, and thorax, while the least painful surgery was lower abdomen (p<.001). Lower abdominal surgery used the highest amount of PCA (p<.001), and extremities and spinal surgery, the lowest amount of PCA and frequently stop using it (p<.001). The most common side effects were nausea and vomiting after surgery, with an incidence of 16.0% within 24 hours and 9.8% within 48 hours. The overall error caused by PCA was 1.5%, with 84.3% being caused by human errors. Conclusion: With the pain management effect of APS nurses, patients used PCA more effectively. There were also fewer side effects and error rates compared to prior studies. Therefore, it is suggested that this system is safe and effective for pain management.

• Journal of The Korean Society of Integrative Medicine
• /
• v.10 no.2
• /
• pp.105-113
• /
• 2022

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of non-invasive transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on muscle activity, including 10 m WT, TUG, and BBS, in hemiplegic stroke patients. Methods: This study was conducted on 42 inpatients diagnosed with hemiplegia due to stroke at hospital B in Daejeon for more than 6 months. Walking training was conducted for six weeks, five times a week for 30 minutes, with a general walking group (14 people), tDCS walking group (14 people), and tDCS (sham) walking group (14 people). Results: As a result of the study, the change in the muscle activity before and after tDCS intervention was significantly increased in the tibialis anterior muscle in the CG group. In the EG group, the erector spine (lumbar), rectus femoris, and tibialis anterior muscles significantly increased. In the SEG group, significant increases were observed in the rectus femoris and tibialis anterior muscles. Significant differences were found in the rectus femoris and tibialis anterior muscles in the comparison between groups after intervention according to tDCS application. Also, 10 m WT, TUG, and BBS were significantly increased in the CG, EG, and SEG groups after intervention, and there were significant differences in 10 m WT, TUG, and BBS in comparison between groups after intervention according to tDCS application. Conclusion: As a result, tDCS is an effective in improving the walking ability of stroke patients, and in particular, it effectively increases the muscle activity of the rectus femoris and tibialis anterior muscles, which act directly on walking, and also improves the speed and stability of walking. It is considered being an effective method to increase the gait of stroke patients by combining it with the existing gait training.

• Journal of The Korean Society of Integrative Medicine
• /
• v.12 no.3
• /
• pp.71-81
• /
• 2024

Purpose : In this study, we compared the effects of ankle, McKenzie, and cervical stabilization exercises in individuals with a forward head posture. Outcome measures investigated included the neck disability index, craniovertebral angle (CVA), cranial rotation angle (CRA), and thickness of the longus colli muscle (LC) and carotid artery (CA) post-intervention. Methods : The study included 20 individuals with a forward head posture, who were assigned to an experimental group (EG, individuals performed ankle exercises) or control group (CG, individuals performed McKenzie and cervical stabilization exercises). The EG intervention was specifically designed to enhance proprioception in the ankle joint and strengthen the ankle muscles to improve overall stability and function. In contrast, CG interventions aimed to improve neck muscle balance and cervical spine alignment. Paired t-tests were used to analyze intragroup changes and independent t-tests to determine intergroup differences pre-and post-intervention. The significance level for all statistical tests was set at α=.05. Results : We observed significant post-intervention improvements in both groups, specifically, in the CVA, CRA, and LC and CA thickness (p<.05). These results indicate that ankle, McKenzie, and cervical stabilization exercises were useful for neck posture correction, improved muscle balance, and enhanced blood flow to the neck. Conclusion : This study underscores the positive effects of ankle, McKenzie, and cervical stabilization exercises in individuals with a forward head posture. Our study highlights the benefits of these exercises for posture correction and overall neck health and the clinical effectiveness and usefulness of ankle exercises as an important intervention to improve forward head posture.

• Journal of the Korean Crystal Growth and Crystal Technology
• /
• v.10 no.3
• /
• pp.239-244
• /
• 2000

Synthesis and high temperature phase stability of $_{1+x}$ Co$_{y}$ Mn$_{2-y}$ $O_4$(0$\leq$x$\leq$0.2,y=0,1/9,1/6) spinel, both the excess lithium and cobalt added, have been studied. The spinel was prepared by oxalate precipitation method as the wet chemical process. Oxalate derived spinel was synthesized by heating of precipitates at temperature lower than $600^{\circ}C$. As a result of the TG-DTA and XRD analysis of prepared and quenched powders, it was found that reversible phase transitions started at temperatures $T_1$, $T_2$및 $T_{2'}$. The transitions involved weight (oxygen) loss and gain during heating and cooling. The effects of Li excess and Co doping on the spinel lattice constant, phase stability and transition temperatures of the prepared powders are investigated. This study would provide important data for determining the spinel preparation process such as synthesis temperature and cooling speed.

• Maxillofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
• /
• v.35 no.2
• /
• pp.82-87
• /
• 2013

Purpose: This study evaluated postoperative maxillary stabilities in patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion who were taken both maxillary advancement surgery and mandibular retrusive surgery, using Le Fort I osteotomy, through three-dimensional computed tomography. Methods: We selected 14 patients who were taken postoperative three-dimensional computerized tomography at the time before surgery, immediately after surgery, six months after surgery among the patients undergone both maxillary advancement surgery using Le Fort I osteotomy and mandibular retrusive surgery using bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy. We measured and compared the vertical distance of A-point and posterior nasal spine (PNS), the horizontal distance of A-point and PNS in transverse plane and coronal plane of the three-dimensional reconstructed images, respectively. Results: In transverse plane, the distance difference between immediately after surgery ($S_1$) and immediately before surgery ($S_0$) of A-point was $-0.04{\pm}1.80$ mm, $S_2$ and $S_0$ was $-0.15{\pm}1.69$ mm, and between $S_1$ and $S_2$ was $0.11{\pm}0.58$ mm. There were no significant differences between these data (P>0.05). In transverse plane, the distance between $S_1-S_0$ of PNS was $-3.87{\pm}2.37$ mm, $S_2-S_0$ of PNS was $-3.79{\pm}2.39$ mm, and $S_1-S_2$ of PNS was $-0.08{\pm}0.18$ mm. There were significant differences between these data (P<0.05). In coronal plane, the distance between $S_1-S_0$ of A-point was $3.99{\pm}0.86$ mm, $S_2-S_0$ was $3.57{\pm}1.09$ mm, and $S_1-S_2$ was $0.42{\pm}0.42$ mm. There were significant differences between these data (P<0.05). In coronal plane, the distance between $S_1-S_0$ of PNS was $3.82{\pm}0.96$ mm, $S_2-S_0$ was $3.43{\pm}0.91$ mm, and $S_1S_2$ was $0.39{\pm}0.49$ mm. There were significant differences between these data (P<0.05). In transverse plane, it was estimated that PNS has no statistical postoperative stability in the same direction. In coronal plane, it was estimated that both A-point and PNS had no statistical postoperative stability (P<0.05). Conclusion: Clinically, the operation plan needs to take into account of the maxillary relapse.

• Journal of the Korean Society of Physical Medicine
• /
• v.3 no.2
• /
• pp.63-74
• /
• 2008

Purpose : The purpose of this study was to compare trunk repositioning errors between subjects with and without low back pain in sitting and standing. Methods : Total 81 participants were recruited who consisted of 41 subjects with low back pain and 40 normal subjects. The subjects were instructed to replicate the predetermined target positions of the trunk toward upright and $30^{\circ}$ flexion in sitting and standing. During each of movement, digital inclinometer was used to measure the angular movement of $T_{12}$ spinal process. Repositioning error was calculated as the absolute difference between the predetermined target positions and replicated target positions. Results : In subjects with low back pain, upright repositioning error was $1.26^{\circ}{\pm}0.14^{\circ}$ in sitting and $1.55^{\circ}{\pm}0.24^{\circ}$ in standing, and $30^{\circ}$ flexion repositioning error was $3.23^{\circ}{\pm}0.33^{\circ}$ in sitting and $5.50^{\circ}{\pm}0.50^{\circ}$ in standing. In subjects without low back pain, upright repositioning error was $1.38^{\circ}{\pm}0.15^{\circ}$ in sitting and $1.67^{\circ}{\pm}0.18^{\circ}$ in standing, and flexion repositioning error was $2.61^{\circ}{\pm}0.28^{\circ}$ in sitting and $3.70^{\circ}{\pm}0.52^{\circ}$ in standing. It was demonstrated that flexion repositioning error increased significantly in standing position. In subjects with low back pain, $30^{\circ}$ flexion repositioning error was significantly higher in standing than in sitting. Conclusion : The repositioning error of subjects with low back pain increased during flexion and it implies that some aspects of proprioception are decreased in subjects with low back pain. Therefore, it will be emphasis that a clinical trial to increase the trunk flexion stability of subjects with low back pain in standing.

• Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society
• /
• v.42 no.4
• /
• pp.251-257
• /
• 2007

Objective : This multi-center clinical study was designed to determine the long-term results of patients who received a one-level posterior lumbar interbody fusion with expandable cage ($Tyche^{(R)}$ cage) for degenerative spinal diseases during the same period in each hospital. Methods : Fifty-seven patients with low back pain who had a one-level posterior lumbar interbody fusion using a newly designed expandable cage were enrolled in this study at five centers from June 2003 to December 2004 and followed up for 24 months. Pain improvement was checked with a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and their disability was evaluated with the Oswestry Disability Index. Radiographs were obtained before and after surgery. At the final follow-up, dynamic stability, quality of bone fusion, interveretebral disc height, and lumbar lordosis were assessed. In some cases, a lumbar computed tomography scan was also obtained. Results : The mean VAS score of back pain was improved from 6.44 points preoperatively to 0.44 at the final visit and the score of sciatica was reduced from 4.84 to 0.26. Also, the Oswestry Disability Index was improved from 32.62 points preoperatively to 18.25 at the final visit. The fusion rate was 92.5%. Intervertebral disc height, recorded as $9.94{\pm}2.69\;mm$ before surgery was increased to $12.23{\pm}3.31\;mm$ at postoperative 1 month and was stabilized at $11.43{\pm}2.23\;mm$ on final visit. The segmental angle of lordosis was changed significantly from $3.54{\pm}3.70^{\circ}$ before surgery to $6.37{\pm}3.97^{\circ}$ by 24 months postoperative, and total lumbar lordosis was $20.37{\pm}11.30^{\circ}$ preoperatively and $24.71{\pm}11.70^{\circ}$ at 24 months postoperative. Conclusion : There have been no special complications regarding the expandable cage during the follow-up period and the results of this study demonstrates a high fusion rate and clinical success.

• The Journal of Korean Physical Therapy
• /
• v.17 no.3
• /
• pp.311-327
• /
• 2005

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of diaphragmatic breathing on activation of trunk muscles of patients with low back pain. Diaphragmatic breathing may affect activation of trunk muscles. The assumptions are as follows: the crural diaphragm attatches to the lumbar vertebrae from L1 to L3, the voluntary downward pressurization of the diaphragm increases intra-abdominal pressure, and this increases the stiffness of the spine. Diaphragmatic breathing increases intra-abdominal pressure and the increased intra-abdominal pressure may contribute to the lumbar stability. Sixty patients with low back pain were randomly divided into two groups. Experimental group performed diaphragmatic breathing exercise with six breathing positions and control group performed only the breathing positions for five times per week during six weeks. % maximal voluntary contraction(% MVC) of trunk muscles on six breathing positions of experimental and control group was measured according to testing period of pre test, three weeks, and six weeks. The repeated measures of one-way ANOVA were used to analyze % MVC on trunk muscles of experimental and control group according to testing period. The results of this study were as follows: First, % MVC of right and left erector spinae in the right leg extension position indicated the statistically significant difference in experimental group which performed diaphragmatic breathing exercise rather than control group (p<0.05). Second, % MVC of right and left erector spinae in all-four positions indicated the statistically significant difference in experimental group which performed diaphragmatic breathing exercise rather than control group (p<0.05). Third, % MVC of right and left erector spinae, external oblique in the sitting position indicated the statistically significant difference in experimental group which performed diaphragmatic breathing exercise rather than control group (p<0.05). Fourth, % MVC of right and left erector spinae, external oblique in the standing position indicated the statistically significant difference in experimental group which performed diaphragmatic breathing exercise rather than control group (p<0.05). Fifth, % MVC of right and left erector spinae, external oblique in the supine position indicated the statistically significant difference in experimental group which performed diaphragmatic breathing exercise rather than control group (p<0.05). Sixth, % MVC of right and left erector spinae, external oblique in the lying on prone position indicated the statistically significant difference in experimental group which performed diaphragmatic breathing exercise rather than control group (p<0.05). In conclusion, as experimental group performed diaphragmatic breathing exercise according to the period of pre-test, post three weeks, and post six weeks, experimental group showed the greater significant effect on the activation of right, left erector spinae, and external oblique muscle. Diaphragmatic breathing exercise which resulted in activation of trunk muscles can be effective for managing the patients with back pain and should be utilized as the new therapeutic intervention.

• Korean Journal of Applied Biomechanics
• /
• v.16 no.2
• /
• pp.1-8
• /
• 2006

The purpose of this study was to evaluate normalized jerk according to shoes, slope, and velocity during walking. Eleven different test subjects used three different types of shoes (running shoes, mountain climbing boots, and elevated forefoot walking shoes) at various walking speeds(1.19, 1.25, 1.33, 1.56, 1.78, 1.9, 2, 2.11, 2.33m/sec) and gradients(0, 3, 6, 10 degrees) on a treadmill. Since there were concerns about using the elevated forefoot shoes on an incline, these shoes were not used on a gradient. Motion Analysis (Motion Analysis Corp. Santa Rosa, CA USA) was conducted with four Falcon high speed digital motion capture cameras. Utilizing the maximum smoothness theory, it was hypothesized that there would be differences in jerk according to shoe type, velocity, and slope. Furthermore, it was assumed that running shoes would have the lowest values for normalized jerk because subjects were most accustomed to wearing these shoes. The results demonstrated that elevated forefoot walking shoes had lowest value for normalized jerk at heel. In contrast, elevated forefoot walking shoes had greater normalized jerk at the center of mass at most walking speeds. For most gradients and walking speeds, hiking boots had smaller medio-lateral directional normalized jerk at ankle than running shoes. These results alluded to an inverse ratio for jerk at the heel and at the COM for all types of shoes. Furthermore, as velocity increased, medio-lateral jerk was reduced for all gradients in both hiking boots and running shoes. Due to the fragility of the ankle joint, elevated forefoot walking shoes could be recommended for walking on flat surfaces because they minimize instability at the heel. Although the elevated forefoot walking shoes have the highest levels of jerk at the COM, the structure of the pelvis and spine allows for greater compensatory movement than the ankle. This movement at the COM might even have a beneficial effect of activating the muscles in the back and abdomen more than other shoes. On inclines hiking boots would be recommended over running shoes because hiking boots demonstrated more medio-lateral stability on a gradient than running shoes. These results also demonstrate the usefulness of normalized jerk theory in analyzing the relationship between the body and shoes, walking velocity, and movement up a slope.