Noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation in ALS: predictors of tolerance and survival.

Objective: To identify factors associated with tolerance and survival after noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation (NIPPV) and to investigate the influence of NIPPV on lung function in patients with ALS.

Methods: NIPPV was offered to 71 patients with ALS in accordance with currently published guidelines. Effects of NIPPV on lung function and factors influencing tolerance and survival after NIPPV were studied.

Comparative study of hands-on therapy with active exercises vs education with active exercises for the management of upper back pain.

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare hands-on therapy, including heat, massage, and active exercises with postural education that emphasized increased self-efficacy and postural self-awareness along with education about the physiology of the disorder, and prescribed daily active exercises.

Subjects: Twenty-four randomly selected women, 12 custodians and 12 students, with neck and shoulder pain and stiffness.

Methods: All subjects received a medical examination and x-ray before the study to rule out any pre-existing neurologic deficits and an evaluation that included history taking and self-reporting of pain according to a numeric pain scale.

A protective orthoplast splint in the treatment of a patient with Colles' fracture by external fixation.

Discussion is provided of an Orthoplast splint that was used to aid in the successful treatment of a mentally deficient patient who had sustained a fracture in the distal forearm, which was managed by external fixation. This splint is advocated for the treatment of various types of uncooperative patients. Although this splint has not been tried in the treatment of children, it appears likewise applicable for a noncompliant youngster.