Use of Virtual Reality in Physical Therapy as an Intervention and Diagnostic Tool.

Within the past decade, the integration of computer-generated virtual realities (VRs) has witnessed a significant rise in the field of healthcare, particularly in diagnosis and treatment applications. These VR systems have found extensive use in physical therapy, rehabilitation, research, and assessment. This narrative review article is aimed at providing a comprehensive overview of the literature regarding the implementation of VR in the physical therapy profession.

Effect of transcranial magnetic stimulation on postural control of individuals with major depressive disorder: A case report.

Accidental falls and major depressive disorder (MDD) are two common conditions associated with aging. Initial treatment of MDD often starts with administering antidepressants, followed by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant individuals. The purpose of this case study was to determine the effect of repetitive TMS (rTMS) on postural control of an individual with MDD.

Different Modalities of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to Manage Schizophrenia.

To analyze all current literature related to different transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) modalities in the management of schizophrenia symptoms and compare the main controversies in the outcome measures. A comprehensive search in Ovid MEDLINE, APA PsycINFO, and PubMed was conducted (1996 to present) to identify all articles using the search terms , , , , and . Search results were limited to the English language and human subjects.

Changes in balance in older adults based on use of physical therapy vs the Wii Fit gaming system: a preliminary study.

Objectives: To determine the effectiveness of Wii Fit training on balance control in older adults compared with physical therapy training.

Design: Quasi-experimental design.

Participants: Eight males and nine females aged 53 to 91 years.

First case of disseminated phaeohyphomycosis in an immunocompetent individual due to Alternaria malorum.

A 27-year-old Iranian, previously healthy male presented with sub-cutaneous necrotic lesions with a localized dermatosis affecting the anterior chest, neck and face. These lesions consisted of singular, well-defined verrucous plaques which gradually developed and disseminated over time. The dermatosis was followed by the development of necrotic swollen lesions localized on the hard palate.

Changes of postural steadiness following use of prefabricated orthotic insoles.

Orthoses are designed to assist a malaligned foot in adapting to the environment and reduce the frequency of injury. Literature is divided on the benefits of orthotics insoles for postural stability. The current study was conducted to determine the effect of prefabricated orthotic arch supports on postural stabilization.

Survival of block and fascial-wrapped diced cartilage grafts: an experimental study in rabbits.

Introduction: Cartilage grafts have become an integral part in plastic surgery. Classic autogenous cartilage harvesting techniques are associated with significant donor- and recipient-site morbidity. The use of cartilage micrografts wrapped in a sleeve was first developed to decrease the complication rates of block cartilage grafts.

Assistive devices for balance and mobility: benefits, demands, and adverse consequences.

Objectives: To provide information on the advantages and possible disadvantages of using canes and walkers.

Data Sources: English-language articles were identified by searching MEDLINE and PubMed (1966-May 2003) for key words cane or walker , excluding articles unrelated to mobility aids. Bibliographies were reviewed and ISI Web of Science citation searches were run to identify additional references.

Can use of walkers or canes impede lateral compensatory stepping movements?

Although assistive devices, such as walkers and canes are often prescribed to aid in balance control, recent studies have suggested that such devices may actually increase risk of falling. In this study, we investigated one possible mechanism: the potential for walkers or canes to interfere with, or constrain, lateral movement of the feet and thereby impede execution of compensatory stepping reactions during lateral loss of balance. Lateral stepping reactions were evoked, in 10 healthy young adults (ages 22-27 years), by means of sudden unpredictable medio-lateral support surface translation.

Resolving conflicts in task demands during balance recovery: does holding an object inhibit compensatory grasping?

The ability to reach and "grasp" (grip or touch) structures for support in reaction to instability is an important element of the postural repertoire. It is unclear, however, how the central nervous system (CNS) resolves the potential conflict between holding an object and the need to release the held object and grasp alternative support, particularly if the held object is perceived to be relevant to the task of stabilizing the body, e.g.