The journal Interdisciplinary Rehabilitation / Rehabilitación Interdisciplinaria (ISSN 2953-5069) has changed its name to Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine (ISSN 3072-838X). This change follows a recommendation from a previous editorial evaluation, aiming to make the journal’s focus on both physical and sports rehabilitation explicit and free of ambiguity. All previously published articles will remain available, and we look forward to continuing to receive your valuable submissions. Kind regards, The Editorial Committee
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Effects of Self-Stretching vs. Gym Ball Exercises for Managing Lower Back Pain Among Young Adult Male Gym Goers: A Randomized control trial
Introduction: Low back pain was common among beginner gym-goers due to unfamiliar movement patterns, poor technique, and adaptation to equipment. Although self-stretching was a simple, self-directed intervention, its effectiveness compared with guided methods such as Swiss ball-assisted stretching remained unclear. Methods: Sixty young adult males (18–30 years) with less than six months of gym experience and mild to moderate low back pain were randomly allocated to either a self-stretching group (Cat-Cow, Seated Forward Bend, Child’s Pose, Standing Hamstring, and Lower Back Rotational Stretch) or a Swiss ball-assisted stretching group. Both groups underwent a six-week program. Pain intensity, flexibility, and functional mobility were assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Sit-and-Reach test, and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Results: The self-stretching group demonstrated significantly greater improvements compared with the Swiss ball-assisted stretching group in VAS (p = 0.014), ODI (p = 0.007), and Sit-and-Reach scores (p = 0.008). Conclusions: Self-stretching proved to be more effective than Swiss ball-assisted stretching in reducing pain, improving flexibility, and enhancing functional mobility among beginner gym-goers.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nageswari, Dharam Raj Chauhan, B. Thillaieaswaran (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Ozone Therapy and Magnetotherapy in Patients with Acute Low Back Pain
Introduction: low back pain is among the most frequently treated conditions in rehabilitation centers in the municipality of 10 de Octubre, Havana; therefore, it is necessary to implement therapies that promote the prompt recovery of affected patients. Objective: to assess the initial status for implementing a combined magnetotherapy and rectal ozone-therapy regimen in individuals with acute low back pain treated at the “Raúl Gómez García” Teaching Polyclinic. Methods: a descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted. Theoretical approaches were used for document analysis and for systematizing relevant references; empirical methods included a survey to collect data on acute low back pain, direct observation of therapy administration in affected patients, and a diagnostic rubric to evaluate symptom severity. Results: analysis of the diagnostic instruments and their methodological triangulation revealed the key challenges and enabling factors for applying combined magnetotherapy and rectal ozone therapy in patients with acute low back pain.
Copyright (c) 2025 Eugenia María Escobar Rivas, Yanet García Rosabal, Odalys M. Senado Pedroso (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Active breaks as a tool for well-being and productivity
The text presented Dorothea Orem's Self-Care Theory as a basis for understanding the importance of maintaining health at work. It pointed out that self-care was a learned and guided activity, while self-care deficits required nursing support systems. This perspective was linked to the workplace, where workers identified capabilities, limitations, and internal and external factors that influenced their well-being. Active breaks were highlighted as a concrete practice of self-care, preserving health and preventing illnesses that affected productivity and performance. DEVELOPMENT The history of “break gymnastics” was described from its origins in Europe to its institutionalization in Japan and its worldwide expansion. Active breaks were defined as short exercises involving breathing, stretching, joint mobility, coordination, and flexibility, performed during the workday to recover energy and reduce fatigue. Physiological, psychological, social, and economic benefits were highlighted, including a decrease in accidents, increased productivity, and reduced healthcare costs. It was recommended that they be practiced twice a day for five to ten minutes. Barriers such as lack of time, space, or management support were also noted, as were facilitators such as a culture of self-care and adequate organization. In addition, they were related to ergonomics, the prevention of sedentary lifestyles, and performance evaluation, factors that conditioned their effectiveness. CONCLUSION The analysis concluded that integrating Orem's theory with active breaks strengthened health and work performance. The sustainability of these programs depended on institutional commitment, ergonomic design, and fair evaluations. Consolidating a culture of self-care represented a low-cost, high-impact strategy for achieving healthy and humanized work environments.
Copyright (c) 2024 Jennifer Lizcano Ramírez , Arelis Cecilia Remache Barre , Ana Maria Rodriguez Salas , Jenrry Fredy Chávez-Arizala (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Level of active break practices among fire department personnel, Santo Domingo, 2024
Active breaks are short periods of physical activities that are carried out during work days, to reduce the negative effects of work. Carrying out these activities does not require stopping activities in the company, it is enough to take a few minutes every two hours for the worker to do the various types of exercises. This research aims to measure the level of active practices in the personnel of the Santo Domingo Fire Department, 2024. Methodologically, it was developed under the quantitative approach as a descriptive level field research, with a basic purpose and with a non-experimental cross-sectional design. The sample consisted of 95 active workers of the fire department to whom a questionnaire was applied that, through a scale, allowed measuring the level of active breaks. As main results, the majority of firefighters are between 18 and 30 years old (48.4%), with a predominance of the male gender (57.9%) and working mainly in the operational area (58.9%). 13.7% take active breaks regularly, while 83.2% do so occasionally, indicating an urgent need to promote these breaks. Although 80% take short breaks occasionally, only 21.1% perform stretching exercises regularly. Overall, 61.05% of staff have an adequate level of active breaks in their work routine, while 38.94% maintain a moderate level of these practices, highlighting the importance of institutionalizing these practices to improve health, reduce stress and increase effectiveness in fulfilling their responsibilities.
Total Hip Arthroplasty: Contemporary Surgical Approaches, Navigation Technology and Determinant Factors of Clinical Outcomes. A Narrative Review
Background and Objective: Total hip arthroplasty (THA) represents one of the most successful orthopedic interventions for treating degenerative and traumatic hip pathologies. This narrative review aims to critically analyze current evidence regarding contemporary surgical approaches in THA, the role of computer-assisted technology, and determinant factors influencing clinical outcomes. Methods: A comprehensive narrative literature review was conducted covering publications from 2010 to 2025 across PubMed, Scopus, SciELO, SpringerLink, and Google Scholar databases. Inclusion criteria comprised studies with sample sizes ≥30 patients, functional assessment using validated scales (Harris Hip Score, WOMAC, SF-36), and minimum three-month follow-up. Original articles, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials, and academic theses in English or Spanish were included. Results: Minimally invasive approaches including SuperPATH (Supercapsular Percutaneous Assisted Total Hip) and direct anterior approach (DAA) demonstrate significant advantages over traditional posterior approach, including reduced intraoperative bleeding, decreased postoperative pain, and accelerated functional recovery. Meta-analyses involving over 1,500 patients confirm SuperPATH superiority in terms of blood loss reduction, shorter hospital stays, and lower dislocation rates. Intraoperative navigation technology improves acetabular component positioning accuracy, with up to 98% of implants placed within optimal anteversion and abduction ranges (15°-25° anteversion, 40°-45° abduction). Institutional surgical volume emerges as a critical determinant factor, with high-volume centers (>100 annual procedures) reporting significantly lower complication rates, reduced mortality, and improved functional outcomes. Conclusions: Contemporary THA has evolved toward less invasive techniques with enhanced technological integration. The combination of minimally invasive surgical approaches, computer-assisted navigation, and centralization in high-experience centers represents the current trend for optimizing clinical and functional outcomes. Future directions include greater integration of robotic technology, advanced navigation systems, and personalized treatment approaches based on detailed preoperative analysis and three-dimensional modeling.
Copyright (c) 2025 Cevallos Navia Lincon Joan, Chávez Ruiz María Lisbeth, Quijije Sornoza Ingrid Paola, Franklin Antonio Vite Solorzano, Ruth Monserrate Delgado (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Dental health, sports, and quality of life: the impact of periodontal disease on athletic performance
Dysbiotic dental biofilm may increase the risk of periodontal damage and increase proinflammatory mediators such as IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, C-reactive protein, and TNF-α. Some of these biomarkers are linked to muscle fatigue, the risk of sports injuries, and persistent inflammation in high-intensity exercisers. Studies show that athletes with signs and symptoms of periodontal disease are more likely to suffer recurrent muscle injuries. Inflammatory mediators shared by PD and high-intensity exercise may be linked to an increased risk of fatigue, repeated muscle injuries, and a potential worsening of both PD and muscle function, which subsequently causes plasma creatine kinase (CK) leakage. Studies show that, in the presence of PD, salivary CK concentrations were increased in periodontitis. Other studies show that saliva can be used to detect muscle damage. Therefore, the objective of this work is to investigate the relationship between periodontal disease and sports performance, measurable by salivary biomarkers such as creatine kinase (CK). The increase in the concentration levels of CK present in saliva in periodontal patients
Sofia Geraldine Genero de Oliveira Manarte
Copyright (c) 2026 Ramiro Perez, Valeria Gambetta, Sofia Geraldine Genero de Oliveira Manarte, Maria Isabel Brusca, Virginia Jewtuchowicz, Maria Eugenia Castillo (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Prevention of falls in older adults: analysis of effective interventions
Background: Accidental falls in older adults represent a phenomenon of recurrence and considerable severity since they affect the loss of independence and reduce the person's mobility capabilities, which contributes to premature admission of older adults to nursing homes in the short or long term. long term. It is imperative to study the effective prevention of these events to improve the quality of life of this population. The objective is to analyze effective interventions to prevent accidental falls and their physical consequences to improve the quality of life of older adults and sociodemographically identify samples of collected studies, determine influential risk factors in accidental falls, characterize types of preventive interventions and specify effectiveness. of these interventions. Material and methods: The methodology applied was a systematic review of the bibliography, retrospective, prospective and qualitative, carried out using a data registration form obtained from academic articles published from 2019 to 2024 according to inclusion criteria. The material used was 11 studies or systematic reviews related to the stated inclusion criteria. Results: The influencing risk factors are internal, such as cognitive and neuronal conditions mostly, which affects both men and women over 60 years of age. The most effective preventive interventions are multicomponent ones (exercise+cognitive therapy+professional education+technology) and comprehensive physical exercise, with a high level of fall reduction and noticeable physical improvement in the individual. Other interventions generate relative effects conditioned by time of application, age or preferences of the older adult. Conclusion: The effectiveness of preventive interventions for falls in older adults in association with the risk factors that influence these accidents should be further explored.
Copyright (c) 2026 Samanta Brandao , Karina Bustamante (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Physiotherapy for Alzheimer’s Disease: A Case Report
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological condition characterized by brain changes resulting in the accumulation of specific proteins, leading to brain shrinkage and eventual cell death. It is the primary cause of dementia, resulting in a gradual decline in memory, cognition, behaviour, and social skills, impairing overall functionality. The case study involves an 84-year-old woman displaying symptoms of Alzheimer's disease requiring physiotherapy rehabilitation. Assessment reveals joint pain, abnormal gait, respiratory issues due to pneumonia, reduced balance and cognitive function, concentration difficulties, impaired decision-making, fluctuating moods, and behavioural issues such as depression and aggression. Physical examination shows shoulder shrugging and slight tension in the upper trapezius muscle. The rehabilitation program involves various interventions like stretching, strengthening, aerobic exercises, breathing exercises, lung clearance techniques, active range of motion exercises, postural control, and gait training. The role of the physiotherapist is to address the both physical and cognitive decline and improve mood and behaviour.
Copyright (c) 2024 Ambreen Fatima, Pragnya Jyoti Dash, Sachin Gupta, Sumera Khan (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Challenges and advances in the treatment of radial palsy in Argentina during 2024
In 2024, the management of radial nerve injuries in Argentina was profoundly influenced by structural, economic and health factors. The health system faced difficulties arising from the post-pandemic period, a prolonged economic crisis and unequal access to specialized resources. The high incidence of upper limb injuries was related to the increase in road and work accidents, as well as urban violence. These injuries mainly affected young males from vulnerable sectors. Diagnosis depended, in many cases, on clinical experience, given the limited availability of studies such as electromyography. This reality caused diagnostic delays that reduced the chances of functional recovery. In terms of treatment, tendon transfers continued to be the most widely used technique in public hospitals due to their simplicity and low cost, while nerve transfers began to be implemented in more complex centers. Post-surgical rehabilitation showed marked inequalities between regions. The shortage of specialized physiotherapists, coupled with the lack of continuity in treatments, negatively affected the results. In addition, many patients faced barriers to accessing orthotics, rehabilitation or postoperative check-ups, resorting to NGOs or solidarity campaigns. From the academic sphere, research into surgical treatments was promoted and 3D printing was explored as an alternative for personalized splints. Although significant progress was made, gaps in infrastructure and resources limited its impact.
Copyright (c) 2026 Josefina Martin , Mauro Perugino (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Radial nerve paralysis (high and low), comparison between tendon transfer treatment and nerve reconstruction, literature review
Introduction: The hand is a complex organ whose intricate function allows communication with the environment. It is essential in daily life activities, and its delicate structures are strategically innervated by three main nerves: the ulnar nerve for the hypothenar palm area, the median nerve for the thenar palm area, and the radial nerve for the dorsal aspect. Nerve injuries result in the loss of sensitivity and motor function associated with them. Radial nerve injury leads to the loss of wrist and finger extensor function, thus disrupting the normal grip and release pattern. Surgical techniques aimed at restoring function include tendon transfers or nerve repairs. Objective: To demonstrate the best therapeutic approach for each radial nerve injury. Material and methods: Systematic literature searches were conducted on PubMed for studies published between 2008 and 2024, focusing on radial nerve paralysis treated with tendon transfer or nerve transfer surgery. Results: The results of these studies show heterogeneity regarding technique and functional restoration. Conclusion: Currently, there is no consensus on the optimal technique for reconstruction; however, nerve transfers emerge as a promising option. Nevertheless, further research is needed to identify the limitations of each technique.
Total hip arthroplasty in Pinar del Río. Clinical and surgical results
Total hip arthroplasty is considered a viable solution to acute and chronic hip injuries, which significantly improves the quality of life of patients. A descriptive and retrospective study was conducted with the aim of evaluating patients who underwent cemented total hip arthroplasty with a RALCA® total hip prosthesis over a decade (2010-2020) at the “Abel Santamaría Cuadrado” Hospital (Pinar del Río). Variables such as age, sex, etiological diagnosis and incidence of associated diseases were taken into account for the research. The Harris Hip Score was used to evaluate the final results. The study universe consisted of all patients who underwent this procedure during the study period (120) and the sample studied was 90 patients. Theoretical, empirical and statistical methods were taken into account, the information was processed in a microcomputer and the results were entered into tables for better study and understanding. Males predominated with 52 patients, the highest number of cases was found between the ages of 61 and 70 years. Primary coxarthrosis was the etiologically most prevalent with 36 patients, arterial hypertension was the most frequent associated disease in 36 cases, and the most frequent postoperative complication was paralytic ileus. With the use of the RALCA® prosthesis in this study, excellent results were obtained in 71 patients when evaluated at 3 years of evolution, with an average of (89.3) in the Harris score.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rafael Díaz Domínguez, Lázaro Leduan Cordero Betancourt, Mario Mesa Martí, Luis Racirt Breijo Mato, Guillermo Breijo Madera (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Geriatric hip fractures treated with AO plate. Clinical and surgical Evolution
Introduction: Hip fracture in the elderly generates negative connotations at a functional level, in addition to the repercussions on mortality. Objective: To identify the clinical and epidemiological profile of older adults with hip fracture operated on with hemiarthroplasty by posterior approach. Method: Observational, longitudinal, ambispective and descriptive research, carried out at the "Abel Santamaría" Hospital; between 2020 and 2023. The sample consisted of 180 older adult patients with Garden III and IV hip fracture and who underwent hemiarthroplasty by the Osborne technique. For statistical analysis, the absolute and percentage frequency, the mean and the standard deviation were used. Results: 81.1% were 70 years of age or older, 62.8% were female. HBP and diabetes mellitus were present in 60.0% and 24.4% of the patients. Extracapsular fractures occurred in 61.7%; the most affected limb was the left with 59.4%; 62.2% of the patients underwent surgery within 24 hours of the event. While the Austin Moore prosthesis was implanted in 78.3%; pain and anemia were the most frequent complications. 95.6% of the patients were discharged alive, meanwhile, 68.6% had an adequate evolution 12 weeks after surgery. Conclusions: The findings described in this research reaffirm that hip fracture is an important health problem originating in older adults, and hemiarthroplasty offers high levels of satisfaction, by quickly integrating them into daily activities.
Clinical Epidemiological Characteristics
Copyright (c) 2026 Yoslandy Robaina Miranda, Lázaro Leduan Cordero Betancourt, Mario Mesa Martí, Rafael Díaz Domínguez, Guillermo Breijo Madera (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Rehabilitation through movement in diabetic foot
One of the consequences of Diabetes Mellitus is diabetic foot, which we will address in this scientific manuscript. The diabetic foot is the product of a laceration of the foot which is a consequence of the chronic disease diabetes where the healing time is altered and extended, generating greater risk in life, a decrease in the person's quality of life and a greater cost to the health system. The treatment carried out for the diabetic foot becomes extensive and affects the mobility of the ankle joint, leaving it rigid, which is called ankle ankylosis, losing the functionality of the joint, which causes gait dysfunction. The proposal of this manuscript is to demonstrate the importance of movement in rehabilitation, generating a global approach to the person, encompassing prevention and treatment.
Copyright (c) 2027 María Valentina Barone Bini, Patricia Romina Pereyra (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Clinical and functional evolution of the fracture of lukewarm managed with external fixation
The modern world has brought I get a vertiginous development rhythm, that is accompanied of increment of accidents with increase of lesions of high complexity, mostly located in the long bones, he/she puts under an obligation to the improvement of the techniques of bony fixation, with the intention of controlling the damages, to achieve the cure of the fractures, to avoid complications and sequels. Objective: To analyze the clinical-functional results of the technique of external fixation in the treatment of the fractures of lukewarm in the patients of the service of Orthopedics and Traumatología of the Surgical Clinical Hospital Abel Squared Santamaría in the period of February of 2020 to September of 2023. The universe was constituted by all the patients entered with fracture of lukewarm (n:73); the sample understands the patients entered with fracture of lukewarm treaties with external fixation (n:23). In the current investigation prevalence of the masculine sex existed in the age range understood from the 26-35 years; the place of more frequent lesion was the half third and the causal factor of more representativeness they were the accidents automivilísticos; as for the communication with the exterior the biggest percentage was given by the open fractures. Most didn't develop complications; however of the patients that if they presented complications the most frequent it was the presence of superficial infections. Therefore; it continues being the external fixer a treatment option adapted since in the handling of the fractures of lukewarm in most of the studied patients satisfactory results they were obtained.
Copyright (c) 2026 Emmanuel González Chamant, Guillermo Reyes Chirino, Lázaro Leduan Cordero Betancourt, Mario Mesa Marti, Guillermo Breijo Madera (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Respiratory Rehabilitation Protocol for patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
The overall objective of this manuscript is to provide respiratory system-specialized kinesiologists with a guide for the effective implementation of a specific movement-based respiratory rehabilitation protocol for patients with COPD. In this study, a literature review was conducted on various research works, and those with a common objective were selected, which was to determine a specific respiratory rehabilitation protocol for COPD patients. The study was approached with a qualitative methodology since the goal was not to quantify the types of exercises and techniques corresponding to a specific treatment for COPD patients. Therefore, those techniques and exercises possible to perform in therapy were described. This study was confirmed that physical exercise is a fundamental tool for addressing COPD patients to improve their quality of life in all aspects, although it was not possible to determine at which stage of COPD each exercise can be carried out. Therefore, it is deemed appropriate to conduct further research to describe this with greater clarity.
Copyright (c) 2027 María Clara Roca, Patricia Romina Pereyra (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Introduction: McCune Albright syndrome (SMA) is considered a rare genetic disease, characterized by bone dysplasia, endocrine disorders and hyperpigmentary skin lesions. In SMA, postzygotic somatic mutations occur in the Gs protein gene (GNAS1) and an increase in cAMP, modifying the formation of osteoblasts and increasing bone resorption by osteoclasts, denying the hereditary nature of this disease and the possibility of rapid bone consolidation. Objective: To point out the need to deepen the knowledge of the disease for early detection and multidisciplinary care in order to avoid the consequences. Method: Retrospective observational study of the clinical history of a patient treated in the orthopedic service of the San Isidro General Hospital in Tocoa, Honduras. Results: A 13-year-old patient was admitted to the orthopedic service due to a pathological fracture of the right humerus, in which lytic lesions were observed in the humerus, radius, femur and tibia on the same side, as well as varus deformity of the right hip; café-au-lait spots on the chest and abdomen that did not respect the midline; Tanner 4 breast and pubic bone, vaginal bleeding at 3 months of age, hyperthyroidism and microprolactinoma; pathological fractures of the neck of the femur and right tibia on two occasions at 3 years of age and surgery at 6 years of age. It is interesting to note that the patient's mother had café-au-lait spots on the dorsal region. Plaster treatment of the humerus fracture was performed, achieving bone consolidation at 10 weeks. The asymmetric appearance of the spots in the patient and the rapid bone consolidation are rare clinical aspects of the syndrome. The irregular treatment of her illness and its complications generated sequelae in the patient, which limited her quality of life, highlighting the need for early detection of the disease and multidisciplinary care.
Copyright (c) 2026 Guillermo Reyes Chirino, Lázaro Leduan Cordero Betancourt, Reinaldo Cabrera Pacheco, Mario Mesa Martí, Rafael Díaz Domínguez (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Characterization of hearing impairments due to exposure to industrial noise in generator set operators in Pinar del Río
Noise-induced sensorineural hearing loss is the consequence of multifactorial damage to the auditory structures, which is why the need for this work arose. Objective: To characterize hearing disorders due to exposure to industrial noise in generator set operators in Pinar del Río in the period 2021-2023. Methods: A longitudinal, prospective, descriptive and observational study was carried out, which was validated using theoretical, empirical and statistical methods. Results: a universe of (n-65) and a sample of (n-26) workers, with a predominance of the age group between 41 and 50 years, detecting 26 cases with hearing loss for 40% of the total workers exposed to noise, with a predominance of the male sex for 100%, the hearing impaired detected are directly exposed to noise with an intensity measured between 93 and 95 decibels. Mild hearing loss was present in 50% of the affected (n-13). The use of individual protection equipment against the harmful effects of noise was deficient; it was found that only 26.92% of the workers used them (n-7). Conclusions: all the generator sets were identified as sources of high noise emissions with measured levels higher than the internationally established values. Regarding the characteristics of the audiometric curves, there was a predominance of mild and moderate hearing loss, and the partial existence of the protective equipment was found, as well as their poor use by the workers.
Copyright (c) 2026 Modesto Cordovés Jerez, Ileana Pacheco Valdés, Raúl Rodríguez González, Daniel Amador Miranda, Humberto López Benítez (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The treatment with podiatric massage for individuals with plantar fasciitis
Introduction: in the treatment of plantar fasciitis, foot massage is effective due to its variety of manipulations, gentle movements on the soft tissues of the body, by acting with deep and energetic pressure. These maneuvers are essential and adaptable according to the individual needs of each person with the aim of providing relief and well-being. Objective: to diagnose the initial state for the execution of foot massage to people with plantar fasciitis at the Dr. Cosme Ordoñez Carceller University Polyclinic. Methods: a descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out, theoretical methods were applied, the systematization of references related to the subject and empirical methods such as a survey of people with plantar fasciitis, to identify the type of foot massage treatment applied, physical examination and diagnostic tests to determine their level of affectation. Results: analysis of the results of the instruments used to assess the initial diagnosis and their methodological triangulation allowed us to identify problems and potential opportunities for the application of foot massage in patients with plantar fasciitis attending this clinic. Conclusions: the problems and potential opportunities identified allowed for the development of the protocol.
Copyright (c) 2026 Odalys Senado Pedroso (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Mortality in mechanical ventilation in prone position in patients with acute respiratory distress síndrome
Introduction: Prone ventilation has been shown to improve oxygenation and lung mechanics in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome, but I consider it necessary to delve deeper into the relationship between the prone position and mortality. Objectives: To evaluate whether the prone position decreases the risk of mortality in adult patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome vs. supine ventilation, in a global and segmented manner, as well as to know the main adverse effects related to it. Material and methods: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials comparing patients in the prone vs. supine position was performed with a search in Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane Library and LILACS, and mortality, hospital stay, days of mechanical ventilation and adverse effects were evaluated. Results: Seven randomized controlled clinical trials were included in the analysis. The prone position showed a non-significant tendency to decrease mortality when analyzed globally. When stratified by subgroups, a significant decrease in the risk of mortality was found in patients: 1) ventilated with low tidal volume, 2) prolonged prone position, and 3) established before 48 hours of disease progression in severe hypoxemia. The adverse effects related to prone position were the development of pressure ulcers and orotracheal tube obstruction. Conclusion: Prone position ventilation is a safe strategy and reduces mortality in patients with severe oxygenation impairment. It should be established early, for prolonged periods, and associated with a protective ventilation strategy.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nunes Adalgisa De Moraes Souza , Aníbal Danilo Farias (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Causal factors of sudden death in young athletes
It is undeniable that physical activity provides multiple benefits, both for general health and cardiovascular health, but on rare occasions, sudden cardiac death can occur in athletes even without previous symptoms. Regarding the causes and incidences, there are different studies from various countries and regions that present different results, due to the cultural variations in each country and their practiced sports. Moreover, in some countries, like Italy for example, screenings for conditions such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy are implemented more frequently compared to other countries. Sudden death involves a broad spectrum of associated pathologies, and in athletes or individuals under 35 years old, the most common causes are primary cardiomyopathies, cardiac channelopathies, and congenital anomalies of the coronary arteries. Objectives: Know the main causes of sudden cardiac death in young athletes. Material and methods: This work is a systematic review of the literature, where different studies and articles will be analyzed to compile the most relevant and up-to-date information regarding the main causes of sudden death in young athletes. The search will be conducted through databases such as PubMed, SciELO, and the Argentine Society of Cardiology's website. Results: Based on the results obtained, it was observed that the most common causes of sudden death in young athletes vary depending on the region where the studies were conducted. This variation is mainly due to sociocultural factors that influence how a given society behaves and which sports are practiced. Conclusion: Although it is a rare event with low incidence, sudden cardiac death is a catastrophic event that, in most cases, leads to death. However, it is an event that can be prevented, and with the correct therapeutic intervention in the first few minutes, it can be successfully reversed. But to achieve this, it is necessary to understand the topic and be aware of its main causes to act correctly and efficiently.
Copyright (c) 2026 Levi Evencio da Silva Neto, Ariel de Toma (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Rehabilitative treatment of facial paralysis from a multidisciplinary approach
Introduction: facial paralysis is an acute condition at the peripheral level that sets in abruptly. It produces a decrease or absence of mobility of the muscles that innervate the affected hemiface. It can be of central or peripheral origin. Depending on this, the rehabilitation treatment should be adjusted, taking into account the particularities of the affected persons and paying special attention to the emotional aspect. Objective: to identify the degree of satisfaction with the rehabilitation treatment of people with Bell's Palsy at the Dr. Carlos Juan Finlay Teaching Hospital. Methods: a cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out with a sample of 50 clinical histories. The variables used were sex, age, personal pathologic antecedents, symptoms and signs observed and the patient's evolution. Results: a clinical evolution with a very satisfactory result was observed in 64 % of the totality. The symptoms of facial asymmetry and deviation of the labial commissure after treatment were those that most frequently had a positive response. Conclusions: it was possible to identify that the clinical evolution achieved in more than half of the studied sample was very satisfactory. As secondary findings it was found that the most frequent pathological antecedents were arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus and ischemic heart disease.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rafael Ismael Clavijo Reyes, Mirelis Barrientos Danger , Grisel García Rubio, Berta María Santana Rodríguez, Kenia Bárbara Díaz Pérez, Mercedes Regla González Roque (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Severe pneumonia in Young smokers in the province of Buenos Aires
Introduction: Smoking is related to morphological alterations of the bronchial mucosa epithelium. In Argentina, 33.4% of the population between 18 and 64 years of age are smokers, with a predominance in the lower income areas of the country. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 1.6 million people die of pneumonia every year, with smoking being a major risk factor for its development. Materials and methods: A prospective observational descriptive study was carried out at the Eurnekian Hospital in Ezeiza to describe the evolution of young adult patients with severe pneumonia. Data was collected through anamnesis and review of physical medical records of patients admitted with a diagnosis of pneumonia. Results: Thirty-eight young immunocompetent patients hospitalized with pneumonia were analyzed. The average age was 40 years, with a predominance of males (70.7%). The average number of years of consumption was 20, and 20 patients (55.2%) of the total were minors at the beginning of their smoking habit. With regard to the presence of previous pathologies, 7 patients (18.2%) were diabetic, 9 were hypertensive, 3 had suffered an acute myocardial infarction, 4 had suffered a cerebrovascular accident; 3 had advanced heart failure, 1 had renal failure and 3 had suffered tuberculosis for which they had received full treatment. With regard to oxygen saturation on admission to hospital, 8 patients had saturation levels of between 80-84.9%, 21 between 85-90% and 9 >90%. The average length of stay in hospital was 5.8 days, with only 9 patients being hospitalized for between 10-14 days. Conclusion: The results show that the onset of smoking habit is prior to the age of majority. We believe it is advisable to carry out more campaigns for the prevention of addictions and smoking cessation in adolescents and young adults, with an emphasis on primary health prevention.
Copyright (c) 2026 Joaquín Roberto Malerba , Lorena Djament (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Osteitis pubis in athletes: How should it be treated during professional competition?
Introduction Osteitis pubis, also known as pubalgia, is a mainly chronic injury, very common, which significantly affects the career of athletes, mainly men and young athletes, reappearing repeatedly because it occurs in an area that is constantly active in sports life, making it difficult to rest and thus generating numerous recurrences. Objectives Establish a proper management to treat this injury, taking into account the high competitiveness, and understand and know which is the most effective treatment method between surgical and conservative. Materials and methods A complete investigation will be carried out from different articles and studies carried out by health professionals about different treatments of osteitis pubis and at what time of the injury they were performed, from these to draw a conclusion according to the different results. Results: Different studies were reviewed,76 athletes with a diagnosis of pubalgia, were treated with conservative methods averaging a return to activity between 3 and 6 months depending on the stage of the injury. Injection therapy showed positive results in some patients at 3-8 weeks, while other patients after 25 weeks of injection did not benefit. 198 patients were studied for surgical treatment, on average, prior to surgery, presented preoperative symptoms for 15 months and averaged a recovery time of 9 months to regain competitiveness. Conclusion: OP should be treated according to the type of lesion of each patient, it should always be started with conservative treatment, ignoring infiltrative therapies, it should not wait more than 3 months to opt for surgical treatment.
Copyright (c) 2026 Joaquín Ferrari Testa , Ariel De Toma (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Comprehensive management of osteitis pubis in high performance sports
Osteitis pubis was described as a painful inflammation of the pubic symphysis, common in athletes who performed repetitive movements such as kicking, turning and changing direction. Symptoms included pain in the front of the pelvis, radiating to the groin and difficulty with activities such as running or climbing stairs. Its diagnosis was based on clinical evaluations and imaging studies, such as X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging. Treatment required a multidisciplinary approach combining relative rest, physiotherapy, physical therapies, anti-inflammatory medication and, in severe cases, surgery. In Argentina, this condition significantly affected athletes, especially in disciplines such as soccer, rugby and hockey, so prevention and rehabilitation programs were implemented in sports centers.
Palmitoylethanolamide as an emerging therapy for neurodegenerative diseases
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) was studied for its neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Recent research has shown that it protects HT-22 neuronal cells from oxidative stress caused by hypoxia and reoxygenation, through the activation of signalling pathways such as pAkt and ERK1/2. In addition, it modulates the activation of microglia and astrocytes, reducing inflammation and neuronal damage. Its action did not depend on the CB2 receptor, which indicated a novel mechanism. Its therapeutic potential in neurodegenerative diseases such as ischaemic stroke, which is common in Latin America, was highlighted. Although its safety profile was favourable, additional clinical studies were indicated for its implementation. Regional cooperation was presented as a key factor in advancing its clinical application.
Copyright (c) 2026 Isabela Petrone Arifa, Lucas Daniel Udovin (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The impact of sleep hygiene on pain management in patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia: systematic review
Background: Pain is a personal and subjective experience that can only be described by the patient, especially for those with fibromyalgia. While much is known about the key role of sleep in optimizing many functions, little has been explored regarding how it modulates pain perception. A bidirectional relationship between pain perception and sleep disturbances has been documented. This paper focuses on reviewing research on the relationship between sleep and pain perception specifically in patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia.Materials and Methods. A systematic review of published studies was conducted on the relationship between sleep disorders or poor sleep hygiene and pain perception in adult patients (18-65 years) diagnosed with fibromyalgia. The literature search was conducted in databases such as PubMed, MEDLINE and Scopus, Results. The results show that implementing strategies to improve sleep hygiene can reduce pain intensity and enhance the quality of life of patients. Additionally, it was observed that the lack of restorative sleep exacerbates fatigue symptoms and negatively affects cognitive and emotional functioning. Conclusión. The systematic review suggests that improving sleep hygiene is an effective intervention for managing pain in fibromyalgia patients. Incorporating healthy sleep habits into treatment could alleviate symptoms and optimize the clinical management of this condition, thus improving the quality of life.
Copyright (c) 2026 Yamila Abib Picaso , Karina Bustamante Galarza (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Copyright (c) 2026 Gonzalo García , Sandra Arcieri (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Assessment of thromboembolic risk and preventive strategies in major orthopaedic surgery
Introduction: Venous thromboembolic disease (VTD), comprising deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), was one of the main causes of preventable mortality in hospitalized patients. Its incidence increased significantly in those who underwent hip (THA) and knee (TKA) arthroplasty, which led to the development of effective prevention strategies. Development: Risk factors associated with both the patient and the surgical procedure were identified. The Caprini scale was used to stratify them, including in orthopedic patients. In terms of pharmacological prophylaxis, anticoagulants such as low molecular weight heparins (LMWH), direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) and aspirin (ASA) were compared. Different studies showed that ASA was similarly effective to LMWH in low-risk patients, with advantages such as lower cost and better tolerance. However, DOACs offered a slight superiority in efficacy, although with a higher risk of bleeding. Current recommendations favored a combination of pharmacological and mechanical measures such as early ambulation and the use of compression stockings. Conclusion: The prevention of VTE in major orthopedic surgery required an individualized and evidence-based approach. Aspirin emerged as a valid alternative in certain cases, without completely replacing other anticoagulants in high-risk patients. Further research was considered essential, especially in local contexts such as Argentina, to adapt strategies according to the needs of the health system.
Copyright (c) 2026 Florencia Agustina Rosignoli , Fernando Lipovestky (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Systematic review of neuroprotective actions of the ECP in the HT-22 neuronal line subjected to hypoxia and reoxygenation
Background: Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is an endogenous fatty acid amide that has recognized anti-inflammatory and analgesic actions. Given that inflammation, excitotoxicity, oxidation damage, and microvascular and blood-brain barrier dysfunction are neurodegenerative processes typical of cognitive impairment in diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, it is considered possible that treatments with supplemental PEA can alleviate chronic pain and protect against neuronal damage. to the patient. The objective is to analyze neurodegenerative and anti-inflammatory protective actions of Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) in murine hippocampal neuronal cell line HT-22 subjected to hypoxia and reoxygenation to apply in patients diagnosed with neurodegenerative diseases. Material and methods: The methodology applied was a systematic review of the literature, and the material used was 12 studies according to inclusion criteria. Results:Murine model and in patients focused on Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, being the effective treatment of PEA with antioxidant supplements, frequent protective action at the hippocampal level and modulation of cytokine and proteins in addition to a decrease in acetylcholine (ACh). Other neurodegenerative diseases may benefit from PEA with further specific investigations (in murine model or patients. Conclusion: Intracellular signaling under PEA and investigation into other neurodegenerative diseases should be further explored.
The importance of sleep in fibromyalgia: Challenges and advances in Latin America
Fibromyalgia was described as a syndrome characterised by chronic widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disorders and cognitive alterations. It mainly affected women and represented a clinical and social challenge due to its complexity and high disability burden. It was observed that patients presented alterations in deep sleep and an increase in nocturnal awakenings, which intensified the pain and reduced the effectiveness of the treatments. Sleep hygiene, understood as the set of habits that favour restorative rest, was shown to be an effective strategy for improving sleep quality and reducing the perception of pain. Despite its effectiveness, its incorporation into health policies in Latin America was limited, and a biomedical approach centred on pharmacological treatment predominated. The need to integrate the psychoeducational and sleep components into the multidisciplinary management of fibromyalgia was highlighted.