We examined the effects of the self-natural posture exercise (SNPE) program on changes in physical self-concept and perception of pain reduction among 114 individuals with chronic pain, sampled from a larger group of individuals who completed the SNPE program. Participants' physical self-concept and perception of their level of pain were measured 4 times (baseline and at 4, 8, and 12 weeks during the SNPE program). The effects of the SNPE on changes in these 2 variables were examined using latent curve model analysis. The program improved the muscle power, subjective health, and flexibility subdomains of physical self-concept, and led to a decrease in perceived pain. The effect of the SNPE on perceived pain was greater for individuals who spent longer sitting each day, and who had suffered from chronic pain for longer. These findings suggest that the SNPE program might be a useful method for the self-treatment of chronic pain.

No abstract

Peripheral muscle dysfunction has been associated with impaired health status and increased mortality in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This highlights the importance of assessing and targeting peripheral muscle strength and endurance during pulmonary rehabilitation (PR). However, information regarding the feasibility and responsiveness of isokinetic quadriceps function following PR is limited. PURPOSE: To evaluate whether and to what extent the isokinetic evaluation of quadriceps muscle function meets the pre-defined test criteria in COPD patients; to determine the response to PR of isokinetic quadriceps muscle function. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 2033 COPD patients (age: 65±9 years, 52% male, forced expiratory volume in 1st second: 49±22% predicted) following PR was performed. Individualized exercise training consisted of endurance, interval and strength straining and/or neuromuscular electrical stimulation. Isokinetic quadriceps function assessment consisted of 30 maximal extension-flexion contractions with a full range of motion at a fixed angular speed of 90°/s (computerized dynamometer). Criteria for a correct test performance were: completion of all 30 repetitions, peak torque reached within first five repetitions, and presence of work fatigue. Differences between pre and post PR were tested using paired t-tests. RESULTS: Pre PR, 27% of the patients did not fulfil one or more of the predefined test-criteria. In patients with a correct pre and post PR isokinetic test (n=989), isokinetic quadriceps peak torque (∆=8±12Nm) and total work (∆=229±234J) were responsive to PR (both p-values<0.001). There was no change in work fatigue index following PR. CONCLUSION: Based on the current test criteria, three in four patients with COPD performed the isokinetic quadriceps test correctly during a baseline PR assessment. PR has a beneficial effect on isokinetic quadriceps peak torque and total work, but not work fatigue index, in patients with COPD. Supported by Lung Foundation grant (#5.1.18.232).

No abstract

No abstract