International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice
type: channel
publisher: Inkwell Infinite Publication
language: en
publication name: International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice
issn: 2348-1838
items: The Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on Pediatric Skeletal Muscle Strength: A Systematic Review
items: Quality of Life Amongst Saudi Physiotherapists: A Review of Burnout, Job Satisfaction and Work-Related Well-Being
items: Barriers to Cardiac Rehabilitation in Saudi Arabia: A Scoping Review
items: Rehabilitation Professionals’ Perception of Differences in Development and Clinical Manifestations Between Right and Left Hemiplegia in Children
items: Knowledge of Physiotherapists in Saudi Arabia About Lee Silverman Voice Treatment BIG Therapy for Parkinson's Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study
items: Role of Physical Therapy in Postural Management to Prevent Hip Dislocation in Children with Spastic Cerebral Palsy
items: Efficacy of Harness-Supported Treadmill Training Without Body-Weight Unloading on Balance and Mobility After Stroke
items: Functional Outcomes After Bilateral Versus Unilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Retrospective Cohort Study in Saudi Arabia
items: Misdiagnosis of Greater Trochanteric Fracture in a Young Adult: A Case Report
items: The Impact of 3D-Printed Technology on Functional Performance in an Individual with C2 Spinal Cord Injury: A Case Report
items: Information Needs and Preferences on Cancer-Related Symptoms Among Children with Cancer and Their Parents: A Systematic Review
items: Effect of Supervised Physical Therapy Interventions on Functional Mobility and Quality of Life in Breast Cancer Survivors During Post-Treatment Rehabilitation: A Systematic Review
items: Platelet-Rich Plasma for Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Critical Review of Therapeutic Evidence and Clinical Utility
items: A Review of Falls Among Older Adults in Saudi Arabia: Risk Factors, Outcomes, and Prevention Strategies
items: Association between chronic neck pain, disability, and Physical Activity among Healthcare Workers: A Cross-Sectional Study
items: Optimizing Osteoarthritis Care: A Review of Multimodal Physical Therapy on Long Term Patient’s Outcome
items: Evaluating the Feasibility and Acceptability of Nintendo Switch-Based Exergaming for Enhancing Physical Activity in Children with Down Syndrome: A Pilot Study
items: Association Between Patient Lifting Systems and Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Nurses in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study
items: The Relationship Between Perceived Stress Levels and Low Back Pain in Physical Therapy Students at Jazan University
items: Association Between Hip Strength and Dynamic Balance in Stroke Survivors with Coexisting Knee Osteoarthritis
items: Effectiveness of a Smartphone Application to Improve Home Exercise Adherence in Adults with Knee Osteoarthritis in Saudi Arabia: A Randomized Controlled Trial
items: Comparing Outcomes of Surgical and Nonsurgical Management for Achilles Tendon Ruptures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
items: https://inkwellinfinite.com/index.php/ijprp/article/view/111
items: Awareness and Knowledge of Role of Physiotherapy in The Management of Knee Osteoarthritis Among Al-Baha Populations
items: Parents' Perceptions of Backpack Use and Its Impact on Children's Musculoskeletal Health in Saudi Schools Over Three Semesters with Textbook Integration
items: Effectiveness of Self-administered High Frequency pocket TENS in pain intensity, and workability among university students with Primary Dysmenorrhea – A quasi-experimental study design
items: Comparison Of Kaltenborn Mobilization With Muscle Energy Technique In Patients With Adhesive Capsulitis: A Randomized Clinical Trial
items: Prevalence and risk factors of clubfoot in Al-Baha region - Saudi Arabia
items: Accreditation and Its Impact on Physiotherapy Outcomes in Saudi Arabia Advancing Quality and Patient Care: A Narrative Review
items: Assessing Flat Foot Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors in Jazan Region: Demographic and Lifestyle Considerations

The Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on Pediatric Skeletal Muscle Strength: A Systematic Review
type: item
description: Background. Vitamin D plays a key role in calcium absorption and contributes to several physiological functions. While serum vitamin D levels are positively associated with skeletal muscle strength, the effect of supplementation on pediatric skeletal muscle strength remains unclear. Purpose. To systematically review the literature on the effect of vitamin D supplementation on muscle strength in the pediatric population. Method. This systematic review included only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated vitamin D supplementation and assessed muscle strength in healthy children or adolescents before and after the intervention. Non-experimental studies and trials involving additional supplementation were excluded. Results. This review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022314030). Five RCTs studies met the inclusion criteria, with excellent methodological quality on the PEDro scale. A total of 747 participants (mean age 12.6 years; two-thirds female) were included. VitD insufficiency was common at baseline but improved in most participants after supplementation. Only handgrip strength was measured in all studies, except one that assessed knee muscle strength. Overall, VitD supplementation did not significantly improve muscle strength, except in one trial involving premenarchal girls with VitD deficiency, where handgrip strength improved. Conclusion. Vitamin D supplementation may be beneficial in improving muscle strength among premenarchal girls with vitamin D deficiency, possibly through suppression of parathyroid hormone (PTH).
subject: Syatematic Review
  topic: section
subject: Vitamin D, Supplementation, Pediatric, Children, Muscle, Strength.
  topic: keywords
creator: Naif Ibrahim Bin Talha
creator: Saeed Mushabab Alqahtani
creator: Abdulfattah Saeed Alqahtani
creator: Tarig Ahmed Abdulrahman Ahmed
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-31
publication date: 2025-12-31
starting page: 526
ending page: 543
doi: 10.62464/w9x72z57

Quality of Life Amongst Saudi Physiotherapists: A Review of Burnout, Job Satisfaction and Work-Related Well-Being
type: item
description: Background. Physiotherapists are integral to the development of Saudi Arabia's healthcare system; however, their quality of life (QoL) and work-related well-being have not been comprehensively examined. Identifying determinants such as job satisfaction, burnout, workload, cultural adaptation, and professional recognition is critical to maintaining a resilient, motivated workforce. Method. This narrative literature review synthesised evidence regarding QoL among physiotherapists in Saudi Arabia. Systematic searches of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar (2010–2025) identified English-language empirical studies conducted in Saudi Arabia or involving cross-national comparisons. Study selection adhered to a PRISMA-style process with independent validation. Data were systematically extracted on study design, sample characteristics, QoL measures, and key outcomes, and findings were synthesised thematically within national and global contexts. Results. Fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Saudi physiotherapists reported moderate to high occupational stress, primarily due to heavy workloads, ambiguous career progression, and inconsistent organisational support. Expatriate physiotherapists, who represent a significant portion of the workforce, encountered additional challenges related to cultural adjustment, communication, and inconsistent orientation practices. International comparisons revealed similar QoL concerns globally, although healthcare reforms under Vision 2030 present unique contextual influences in Saudi Arabia. Significant gaps persist in national data regarding burnout prevalence, mental well-being, and work-life balance. Conclusion. The QoL of physiotherapists in Saudi Arabia is influenced by the interplay of workload, organisational, and cultural factors. Strengthening professional support, career development opportunities, and workforce policies may enhance well-being and retention. Further large-scale, methodologically robust studies…
subject: Syatematic Review
  topic: section
subject: Quality of Life, Physiotherapists, Saudi Arabia, Job Satisfaction, Burnout, Vision 2030
  topic: keywords
creator: Shar Abdullah Alamri
creator: Abdulelah Aysh Alsulami
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-31
publication date: 2025-12-31
starting page: 511
ending page: 525
doi: 10.62464/mfsn2032

Barriers to Cardiac Rehabilitation in Saudi Arabia: A Scoping Review
type: item
description: <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 10.0pt; font-family: 'Aptos',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-bidi; color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; font-weight: bold;">Background: <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 10.0pt; font-family: 'Aptos',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-bidi; color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is considered a cornerstone of secondary prevention for cardiovascular disease (CVD); however, it remains underutilized and underdeveloped in Saudi Arabia. Objective: This scoping review aimed to analyze the existing evidence on barriers affecting the implementation and participation in CR programs across Saudi Arabia. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in MEDLINE, PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect for studies published between 2015 and 2025. Eight national studies were included, examining perspectives from physicians, nurses, physiotherapists, and patients. Data were thematically analyzed and categorized into four domains—service delivery and policy, workforce and training, awareness and culture, and patient-related factors—classified under two levels: system and personal. Results: Findings from eight included studies revealed system-level barriers, including a shortage of CR centers, insufficient workforce training, fragmented policies, and limited funding. Personal-lev…
subject: Syatematic Review
  topic: section
subject: Cardiac Rehabilitation; CR; Barriers; Saudi Arabia; Cardiovascular Disease; Scoping Review.
  topic: keywords
creator: Abdullah Tobaigy
creator: Abdulfattah Alqahtani
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-11-30
publication date: 2025-11-30
starting page: 471
ending page: 484
doi: 10.62464/n1vz1426

Rehabilitation Professionals’ Perception of Differences in Development and Clinical Manifestations Between Right and Left Hemiplegia in Children
type: item
description: Background. Hemiplegic cerebral palsy presents with lateralized impairments that may influence developmental outcomes. While literature suggests lesion laterality affects domains such as language and spatial awareness, clinical consensus remains unclear. Purpose. To determine whether rehabilitation professionals observe differences in development or functional outcomes between right and left hemiplegia in children. Method. A cross-sectional survey of licensed pediatric rehabilitation professionals was conducted. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square test and logistic regression. Qualitative responses were thematically analyzed. Results. 63.3% of total (n=49) pediatrics rehabilitation professionals report perceiving difference between hemiplegia types. Right hemiplegia was significantly associated with speech and language difficulties with a 61.3% of all participants. Motor deficits were the most commonly observed domain with 74.2% of participants. Cultural factors, such as religious emphasis on right-hand use, were noted to influence rehabilitation outcomes. Conclusion. The findings of this study, supported by previous literature, reinforce the hypothesis that developmental and functional differences are perceived between left and right hemiplegic cerebral palsy. Rehabilitation specialists should adopt a holistic approach that considers both lesion severity and cultural norms influencing perceptions of development and function. Integrating neurobiological and sociocultural factors is essential for individualized rehabilitation strategies.
subject: Original Research
  topic: section
subject: Hemiplegia
  topic: keywords
subject: cerebral palsy
  topic: keywords
subject: Lesion laterality
  topic: keywords
subject: Pediatric rehabilitation
  topic: keywords
subject: Saudi Arabia
  topic: keywords
creator: Abdulaziz Saeed Alghamdi
creator: Mohammed Elias Tamboosi
creator: Fatmah Ahmed Rasheed
creator: Abdullah Saeed Alghamdi
creator: Lama Abdullah Balghusoun
creator: Meshari Ruzayq Alluhaybi
creator: Abdulrahman Ayman Alsubahi
creator: Yazeed Bakheet Alsaedi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-31
publication date: 2025-12-31
starting page: 498
ending page: 510
doi: 10.62464/xzzshw84

Knowledge of Physiotherapists in Saudi Arabia About Lee Silverman Voice Treatment BIG Therapy for Parkinson's Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study
type: item
description: Background. Parkinson's disease (PD) is a widespread and challenging to diagnose the neurological condition. Tremor, rigidity, and slowness of movement are all symptoms of Parkinson's disease, which is caused by gradual neuronal loss in the substantia nigra and other brain areas. Physical therapy has the ability to enhance walking, balance, muscle strength, and fall reduction, according to growing evidence. The Lee Silverman Voice Treatment BIG (LSVT BIG) therapy is a Parkinson's disease rehabilitation approach. LSVT BIG therapy enables people with Parkinson's disease to utilize their bodies more normally. Purpose. The purpose of this study is to see how much knowledge physiotherapists in Saudi Arabia have about LSVT BIG therapy. Method. A cross-sectional study utilizing a survey to assess the knowledge of physical therapists in Saudi Arabia. It was disseminated via WhatsApp to one thousand physical therapists. The main outcomes were the extent of awareness regarding the LSVT Big method for individuals with Parkinson's disease. Data analysis. Statistical Package for Social Studies was used to analyze the data. The Chi-square test and Fisher's exact test were used for categorical variables. Results. In the current study, 263 male and female physical therapists completed the survey, males represented 63.9% of the participants, and 62% were in the age group of 24 to 30 years. The majority (84.8%) were Saudi. Only 12.5% of the physical therapists in this study were aware of the LSVT-Big therapy, and only 30.3% have ever attended the course or received a certificate. Conclusion. In Saudi Arabia, physical therapists had limited awareness and knowledge about the LSVT BIG therapy. Additional effort is required to train physical therapists about the benefits of the LSVT BIG therapy and how to use it with Parkinson's patients.
subject: Original Research
  topic: section
subject: Parkinson's disease
  topic: keywords
subject: exercise
  topic: keywords
subject: physiotherapy
  topic: keywords
subject: Lee Silverman Voice Treatment BIG (LSVT BIG)
  topic: keywords
subject: balance training in geriatric
  topic: keywords
creator: Ismail Abdullah Khadrawi
creator: Abdulaziz Alotaibi
creator: Ahmed Khalil
creator: Abdulrahman Miyajan
creator: Naif Khan
creator: Amir El Fiky
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-11-30
publication date: 2025-11-30
starting page: 458
ending page: 470
doi: 10.62464/6nzshs38

Role of Physical Therapy in Postural Management to Prevent Hip Dislocation in Children with Spastic Cerebral Palsy
type: item
description: Background: Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neurological disorder characterized by motor impairments stemming from non-progressive brain anomalies. A primary concern in children with spastic CP is hip migration, which can progress to subluxation or dislocation, particularly in non-ambulatory patients. Objective: This narrative review explores the efficacy of physical therapy approaches within postural management programs in preventing hip dislocation in children with spastic CP. Methods: Literature published between 1990 and 2022 is reviewed across databases—namely, PubMed, EDLINE, CINAHL, AMED and Google Scholar. Results: The review highlights diverse interventions, including passive stretching, weight-bearing exercises, standing devices, orthotic aids and the Vojta method, that underestimate the importance of early, individualized and multidisciplinary management in children with spastic CP. While some conservative strategies show promising outcomes, the evidence remains limited and of variable quality. Moreover, the studies have been heterogeneous in design, outcome measures and intervention protocols. Overall, the review indicates the need for tailored programs early in life, especially for children whose motor function is classified as Gross Motor Function Classification System levels IV and V, emphasizing the essential role of physiotherapists in preventive care. Conclusion: Early, tailored physiotherapy and postural management programs play a critical role in mitigating hip displacement in children with spastic CP. Strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration and standardizing intervention protocols are essential to both improving clinical outcomes and advancing the evidence base for conservative management strategies.
subject: Syatematic Review
  topic: section
subject: Cerebral palsy; Hip dislocation; Postural management; Physical therapy; Gross Motor Function Classification System.
  topic: keywords
creator: Shar Abdullah Alamri
creator: Najaw Abdulrazaq Khan
creator: Ibrahim Abdulrahman Alhumaidan
creator: Wafa Faleh Almarri
creator: Norah Mishal Alotaibi
creator: Sarah Marzouk Alkhaldi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-11-30
publication date: 2025-11-30
starting page: 485
ending page: 497
doi: 10.62464/ce32tw86

Efficacy of Harness-Supported Treadmill Training Without Body-Weight Unloading on Balance and Mobility After Stroke
type: item
description: Background: Gait impairment is one of the most debilitating consequences of stroke, often restricting mobility, independence, and community reintegration. Treadmill-based gait training enhances neuroplasticity through repetitive, task-specific practice. However, body-weight-support systems are costly and not always available in routine rehabilitation. This study investigated the efficacy of harness-supported treadmill gait training without body-weight unloading compared with conventional overground therapy in individuals with post-stroke hemiplegia. Methods: Thirty adults (aged 40–60 years) with first-ever unilateral middle cerebral artery stroke and mild-to-moderate hemiparesis (Orpington Prognostic Score < 5.2) were randomly allocated to two groups: (1) conventional Bobath-based overground gait training, or (2) treadmill gait training with overhead harness support (no unloading). Both interventions were administered for 20 minutes, three times per week, over six weeks. The Stroke Rehabilitation Assessment of Movement (STREAM), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and 10-Meter Walk Test (10MWT) served as primary outcome measures. Data were analyzed using independent t-tests, and effect sizes (Cohen’s d) were calculated. Results: Both groups showed significant within-group improvements (p < .01), but the treadmill group demonstrated superior gains in motor recovery and balance: STREAM (+6.20 ± 2.18 vs. +3.73 ± 2.16; p = .005; d = 1.17), BBS (+8.00 ± 4.19 vs. +4.20 ± 2.81; p = .025; d = 0.98), and gait velocity (+0.126 ± 0.035 m/s vs. +0.097 ± 0.025 m/s; p = .025; d = 0.90). All participants completed the program without adverse events, confirming excellent safety and adherence. <span style="font-size: 10.0pt; font-family: 'Aptos',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-bidi; color: black…
subject: Original Research
  topic: section
subject: Stroke rehabilitation; Treadmill gait training; Neuroplasticity; Balance recovery; Harness support; Central pattern generators; Motor relearning; Task-specific training
  topic: keywords
creator: Prashant Kashyap
creator: Shahid Raza
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-10-31
publication date: 2025-10-31
starting page: 442
ending page: 450
doi: 10.62464/9mqmb618

Functional Outcomes After Bilateral Versus Unilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Retrospective Cohort Study in Saudi Arabia
type: item
description: Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative joint disease that often leads to pain, stiffness, and functional disability. Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) remains the most effective surgical treatment for end-stage OA. This study aimed to compare the clinical and functional outcomes of patients undergoing unilateral and bilateral TKA in a tertiary rehabilitation setting in Saudi Arabia. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 265 patients (≥35 years; both sexes) who underwent primary TKA at Sultan Bin Abdualziz Humanitartian City (SBAHC) Between 2016 and 2020. Clinical and functional data—including pain intensity (Visual Analog Scale), range of motion (goniometric assessment), muscle strength (Manual Muscle Testing), and functional independence (Functional Independence Measure, FIM)—were extracted from medical records at three time points: preoperatively, before discharge, and 3–6 months post-discharge. Results: The mean age of the patients was 67.1 ± 8.0 years, with females comprising 66.8%. Postoperatively, there was a significant reduction in pain scores (p < 0.001) and improvement in knee flexion and extension (p < 0.001). Muscle strength and FIM scores improved significantly across all patients, irrespective of age, gender, or postoperative complications. The percentage improvement in total FIM was greater in unilateral TKA patients (63.9%) compared with bilateral TKA patients (48.7%). Conclusions: Both unilateral and bilateral TKA patients demonstrated significant improvements in pain, joint mobility, muscle strength, and functional independence following a high-intensity rehabilitation program, with greater functional gains observed among unilateral TKA patients.
subject: Original Research
  topic: section
subject: Total Knee arthroplasty, Rehabilitation, Functional outcomes, Range of motion.
  topic: keywords
creator: Fouad EL JAMMAL
creator: Orfan Arafah
creator: Imran Ilyas
creator: Hussam Abuzaid Khairi
creator: Ashraf Khaled
creator: Abdulrhman Al Sharif
creator: Mohammed Elkarim
creator: Dhekra Alnaqeb
creator: Bayan AlMutairi
creator: Tahani Madani
creator: Leena M. Alqahtani
creator: Renad Almesned
creator: Wadha Alsebeai
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-10-31
publication date: 2025-10-31
starting page: 425
ending page: 441
doi: 10.62464/nr62es22

Misdiagnosis of Greater Trochanteric Fracture in a Young Adult: A Case Report
type: item
description: Background: Misdiagnosis remains a major clinical challenge, even when patients are initially assessed by multiple healthcare providers. Musculoskeletal injuries, particularly hip trauma, require rigorous screening, careful differential diagnosis, and the use of appropriate imaging. Case Presentation: A 26-year-old Bahraini male developed acute left hip pain following a fall from a horse. Initial emergency department evaluation, including plain radiographs, did not reveal a fracture, and he was treated conservatively with analgesics and NSAIDs. Despite repeated consultations, his pain persisted, and he was referred to physiotherapy with a provisional diagnosis of “hip pain.” During physiotherapy assessment, several red flags were identified, including a traumatic mechanism of injury, persistent pain, limping gait, and lack of improvement with prior management. Further imaging confirmed a fracture of the greater trochanter fracture. Discussion: Greater trochanteric fractures are rare and frequently overlooked on plain radiographs. MRI is considered the gold standard for detecting occult hip fractures. Early recognition is essential, as inappropriate treatment—such as physiotherapy under a misdiagnosed label—may result in fracture displacement, prolonged disability, or surgical intervention. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of independent diagnostic evaluation, even when patients arrive with prior referrals. Comprehensive screening and timely imaging (if needed) are critical to avoid misdiagnosis and ensure optimal patient outcomes.
subject: Case Report
  topic: section
subject: differential diagnosis
  topic: keywords
subject: orthopedic
  topic: keywords
subject: fractures
  topic: keywords
subject: greater trochanter
  topic: keywords
subject: Misdiagnosis
  topic: keywords
creator: Mohamed Merza Khalil AlRayes
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-10-31
publication date: 2025-10-31
starting page: 451
ending page: 457
doi: 10.62464/mxnhjq62

The Impact of 3D-Printed Technology on Functional Performance in an Individual with C2 Spinal Cord Injury: A Case Report
type: item
description: This case report describes the use of a 3D-printed wheelchair joystick to improve functional performance in an individual with incomplete traumatic spinal cord injury at C2. A 29-year-old man presented with complete tetraplegia and no residual upper extremity function following a traffic accident, rendering him unable to operate manual or electric wheelchairs. To address this limitation, a joystick adapted for residual shoulder movements was developed using fused deposition modeling with polylactic acid material. After training, the patient achieved proficiency in maneuvering the wheelchair, as assessed with the Functional Independence Measure, enabling safe navigation and increased engagement in daily activities. This case illustrates how 3D-printed assistive devices can enhance functional autonomy and community participation in individuals with high cervical spinal cord injury.
subject: Case Report
  topic: section
subject: Wheelchair joystick
  topic: keywords
subject: C2 spinal cord injury
  topic: keywords
subject: Functional Independence Measure
  topic: keywords
subject: 3D printing
  topic: keywords
subject: FDM
  topic: keywords
creator: Walaa Alammar
creator: Munirah Alnasser
creator: Naif Alraddadi
creator: Rboaa Alsulmi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-09-30
publication date: 2025-09-30
starting page: 414
ending page: 424
doi: 10.62464/hvjpn732

Information Needs and Preferences on Cancer-Related Symptoms Among Children with Cancer and Their Parents: A Systematic Review
type: item
description: Objective<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; font-family: 'Aptos',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-bidi; color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; font-style: italic;">: <span style="font-size: 10.0pt; font-family: 'Aptos',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-bidi; color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">This study aimed to explore information needs and preferences of children with cancer and their parents about cancer-related symptoms. Methods: A systematic review of the literature was conducted using five databases and citation searches. The quality of eligible studies was assessed with the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Results: Thirty studies were included (N=256 children and N=1778 parents/guardians). Children’s perspectives on their information needs were under examined and different from their parents. Both children and parents required more information about symptoms and late effects. Associations between participants’ characteristics and their information needs about symptoms and late effects were inconclusive. Parents preferred to receive information from doctors, in verbal and written formats, more than from online sources. Conclusions: Children with cancer and their parents need more tailored information about symptoms and late effects. Further research is required to identify how best to support individualized information needs and…
subject: Syatematic Review
  topic: section
subject: Paediatrics
  topic: keywords
subject: Oncology
  topic: keywords
subject: Information needs
  topic: keywords
subject: Quantitative methods
  topic: keywords
subject: Qualitative methods
  topic: keywords
subject: Mixed methods
  topic: keywords
creator: Qamra Muaikel Alqahtani
creator: Catalina Llanos
creator: Jessica Newham
creator: Paula Bray
creator: Kimberley Docking
creator: Elizabeth Dylke
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-09-30
publication date: 2025-09-30
starting page: 388
ending page: 413
doi: 10.62464/v713eq35

Effect of Supervised Physical Therapy Interventions on Functional Mobility and Quality of Life in Breast Cancer Survivors During Post-Treatment Rehabilitation: A Systematic Review
type: item
description: <span style="font-size: 10.0pt; font-family: 'Aptos',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-bidi; color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; font-weight: bold;">Background: <span style="font-size: 10.0pt; font-family: 'Aptos',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-bidi; color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Breast cancer survivors frequently experience reduced physical capacity, fatigue, upper-limb dysfunction, and impaired quality of life (QoL) following treatment. Exercise and physiotherapy-based rehabilitation programs are increasingly prescribed, but the magnitude and consistency of their benefits remain under debate. Objective: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of supervised exercise and physiotherapy interventions on functional mobility, muscular strength, fatigue, upper-limb function, and QoL in breast cancer survivors. Methods:A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane CENTRAL, and ClinicalTrials.gov was conducted up to March 2025. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing supervised exercise or physiotherapy interventions with usual care, waitlist, or non-exercise controls in adult breast cancer survivors were included. Data were extracted on intervention characteristics, participant demographics, outcomes, and adverse events. Risk of bias was assessed using the C…
subject: Invited Review
  topic: section
subject: breast cancer survivors, exercise, physiotherapy, quality of life, fatigue, functional mobility, systematic review.
  topic: keywords
creator: Shadab Uddin
creator: Mohammed M. Alshehri
creator: Vandana Esht
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-09-30
publication date: 2025-09-30
starting page: 368
ending page: 387
doi: 10.62464/3s4xmh03

Platelet-Rich Plasma for Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Critical Review of Therapeutic Evidence and Clinical Utility
type: item
description: Objective: Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy has emerged as a prominent modality in musculoskeletal medicine due to its autologous nature and potential to enhance tissue healing through growth factor release. Although widely adopted, clinical outcomes exhibit variability across studies. Therefore, this review critically evaluates the therapeutic efficacy and methodological quality of PRP applications in musculoskeletal disorders, focusing on tendinopathies, cartilage degeneration, acute muscle injuries, and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) repair. Methods: A structured narrative synthesis was conducted using 11 peer-reviewed studies published between 2014 and 2025. These included randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and retrospective analyses. Methodological quality was assessed using AMSTAR 2 and SANRA tools, with thematic synthesis organized by condition type. Results: PRP demonstrated short-term benefits in pain reduction and functional improvement, particularly in tendinopathies and mild-to-moderate osteoarthritis. Leukocyte-poor PRP (LP-PRP) and PBMNC-enriched formulations showed superior outcomes. However, evidence for cartilage regeneration, ACL repair, and acute muscle injuries remains inconclusive due to protocol variability and moderate risk of bias. Conclusion: PRP therapy offers selective clinical utility in musculoskeletal care, especially for chronic tendinopathies and early-stage osteoarthritis. Standardization of PRP protocols, long-term outcome studies, and identification of patient-specific predictors are essential to optimize its therapeutic role.
subject: Syatematic Review
  topic: section
subject: Sport injuries
  topic: keywords
subject: sport rehabilitation
  topic: keywords
subject: Platelet-Rich Plasma
  topic: keywords
subject: Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)
  topic: keywords
subject: Tendinopathy
  topic: keywords
subject: Osteoarthritis Knee
  topic: keywords
subject: Anterior Cruciate Ligament
  topic: keywords
subject: , Muscle Injuries
  topic: keywords
subject: Regenerative Medicine
  topic: keywords
creator: Mohamed Merza Khalil AlRayes
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-08-31
publication date: 2025-08-31
starting page: 346
ending page: 352
doi: 10.62464/ijoprp.v4i8.121

A Review of Falls Among Older Adults in Saudi Arabia: Risk Factors, Outcomes, and Prevention Strategies
type: item
description: Falls among older adults in Saudi Arabia pose a significant and growing public health concern, with studies reporting prevalence rates exceeding 47%. These events contribute to physical injuries and psychological distress, longer hospital stays, and rising healthcare costs. This narrative review synthesizes recent findings on the prevalence, underlying risk factors, outcomes, and strategies aimed at preventing falls in this population. Key contributors to fall risk in Saudi Arabia were found to include both intrinsic factors, such as chronic health conditions, limited mobility, obesity, vision problems, mental health issues, and polypharmacy, and extrinsic factors like environmental hazards and inadequate safety measures. Despite growing awareness and various preventive efforts, initiatives such as environmental modifications, the use of assistive devices, and closer hospital monitoring, falls remain common across both community and healthcare settings. The literature points to several effective interventions, including personalized risk assessments, home and facility modifications, medication management, structured exercise programs, and better training for caregivers and medical staff. However, a noticeable gap remains between what is known and what is actually implemented. This underscores the urgent need for stronger implementation of fall prevention strategies. Moving forward, a coordinated, multimodal approach tailored to Saudi Arabia’s healthcare system is essential to reduce fall-related incidents and improve the well-being of older adults.
subject: Syatematic Review
  topic: section
subject: Falls
  topic: keywords
subject: older adults
  topic: keywords
subject: Falls risk factors
  topic: keywords
subject: Falls strategies
  topic: keywords
subject: Saudi Arabia
  topic: keywords
creator: Mohammed M. Althomali
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-08-31
publication date: 2025-08-31
starting page: 353
ending page: 367
doi: 10.62464/ijoprp.v4i8.123

Association between chronic neck pain, disability, and Physical Activity among Healthcare Workers: A Cross-Sectional Study
type: item
description: BACKGROUND: Chronic neck pain is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition among healthcare workers, often contributing to absenteeism, reduced productivity, and career dissatisfaction. Despite their vulnerability due to high occupational demands, the relationship between neck pain, disability, and lifestyle factors such as physical activity remains insufficiently explored in this group. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the association between chronic neck pain, disability, and physical activity levels among healthcare workers. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among healthcare workers at Prince Sultan Military Medical City. Participants completed a structured questionnaire that included demographic and health data, the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) for pain intensity, the Neck Disability Index (NDI) for disability, the extended Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analyses were performed. RESULTS: Thirty healthcare workers (83% female) from multiple professions participated. The mean chronic neck pain score was 5.10 (SD = 1.81), and the mean NDI score was 20.25 (SD = 9.73). A high physical activity level was reported by 70% of participants. Significant correlations were observed: a moderate positive correlation between neck pain and disability (r = 0.64, p < 0.01) and a fair positive correlation between neck pain and physical activity (r = 0.45, p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Chronic neck pain appears prevalent among healthcare workers and is moderately associated with disability. Interestingly, higher pain levels were also correlated with higher physical activity, warranting further investigation. Given the small sample size, findings should be interpreted cautiously. Larger, longitudinal studies are recommended to understand risk factors better and to guide preventive and occupational health strategies.
subject: Original Research
  topic: section
subject: chronic neck pain, healthcare workers, Neck Disability Index (NDI), physical activity, occupational health
  topic: keywords
creator: Hana Alsobayel
creator: Amerah Alharthi
creator: Ali Albarrati
creator: Asma Saad Alrushud
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-08-31
publication date: 2025-08-31
starting page: 335
ending page: 345
doi: 10.62464/ijoprp.v4i8.126

Optimizing Osteoarthritis Care: A Review of Multimodal Physical Therapy on Long Term Patient’s Outcome
type: item
description: Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent, chronic musculoskeletal condition and a leading cause of pain, functional limitation, and reduced quality of life, especially among older adults. Traditional physical therapy (PT) for OA typically emphasizes exercise routines and symptom relief strategies. However, growing attention is being directed toward multimodal physical therapy (MPT)—an integrative approach that combines manual therapy, structured exercise, and patient education. This comprehensive model seeks to address not only the physical impairments associated with OA but also the behavioural and educational components that influence long-term disease management. Method: A systematic review was conducted using the Semantic Scholar database. Studies were included if they involved adult populations with OA, used MPT interventions, had a comparator group receiving standard PT or usual care, included a follow-up of at least six months, and reported outcomes related to pain, function, or quality of life. Ten eligible studies were identified, including randomized controlled trials and one systematic review. Result: Of the ten studies, five reported that MPT led to significant short-term improvements in pain and function compared to standard care. However, long-term findings were mixed. Only three studies showed sustained benefits beyond 12 months, while four reported no significant differences between MPT and standard PT over time. Manual therapy was found to be particularly effective in the short term but showed inconsistent long-term value across studies. Conclusion: MPT appears to offer superior short-term outcomes in OA management compared to standard PT. Nonetheless, its long-term benefits remain inconclusive. More high-quality, long-term studies with adherence tracking and patient subgroup analysis are needed to fully assess the sustained value of MPT and to determine which individuals are most likely to benefit from this multimodal approach.
subject: Invited Review
  topic: section
subject: Osteo Artheritis
  topic: keywords
subject: Sytematic Review
  topic: keywords
subject: Multimodal Physical Therapy
  topic: keywords
subject: Long Term Outcomes
  topic: keywords
subject: Physical Therapy Care
  topic: keywords
creator: Sohrab Ahmad Khan
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-07-31
publication date: 2025-07-31
starting page: 304
ending page: 312
doi: 10.62464/ijoprp.v4i7.122

Evaluating the Feasibility and Acceptability of Nintendo Switch-Based Exergaming for Enhancing Physical Activity in Children with Down Syndrome: A Pilot Study
type: item
description: Objective: Nintendo Switch-based exergaming is increasingly used in therapeutic settings. This study aimed to determine whether selected Nintendo Switch games are feasible and engaging for children with Down syndrome (DS). Methods: This interventional pilot study included a convenience sample of 11 children diagnosed with DS. it involved a 40-minute exergaming session using a Nintendo Switch console with ten games (two sports and eight Family Trainer) that required weight shifting and stepping tasks based on previous studies. After the session, the validated Video Game Applicability Questionnaire was used to evaluate usability, engagement, and enjoyment of the selected games using a five-point visual Likert scale. Results: Data from 11 children (7 females), aged 10.45 ± 1.75 years, were analyzed. Games such as Timber Trail (M = 4.96, SD = .07), Log Leaper (M = 4.94, SD = .12), Jump Rope (M = 4.92, SD = .12), Sprint Challenge (M = 4.90, SD = .18), and Head on Hurdler (M = 4.90, SD = .18) received consistently high ratings for usability, engagement, and enjoyment, while others such as Mine Cart Adventure (M = 1.16, SD = .40), Mountain Boarder (M = 1.32, SD = .28), Mole Madness (M = 1.77, SD = .97), Golf (M = 1.77, SD = .76), and Soccer (M = 2.19, SD = .44) were rated lower scores across all domains. Conclusion: Several games showed potential for therapeutic exergaming in children with DS, emphasizing the need for further research and long-term trials.
subject: Original Research
  topic: section
subject: Exergaming
  topic: keywords
subject: Down syndrome
  topic: keywords
subject: Applicability
  topic: keywords
subject: Video game
  topic: keywords
subject: Motor Function
  topic: keywords
creator: Afaf A. M. Shaheen
creator: Safia Darweesh Halwsh
creator: Samiah Alqabbani
creator: Maha F. Algabbani
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-07-31
publication date: 2025-07-31
starting page: 313
ending page: 320
doi: 10.62464/ijoprp.v4i7.120

Association Between Patient Lifting Systems and Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Nurses in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study
type: item
description: Background: This cross-sectional study investigated the association between the use of patient lifting systems and the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among nurses in Saudi Arabia. It also examined the influence of lifting frequency, ergonomic knowledge, and sociodemographic factors. Methods: An electronic survey was distributed to 51 nurses between January and June 2023. The survey collected data on sociodemographic, patient lifting system usage frequency, and MSDs using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Chi-square tests assessed associations, and logistic regression identified significant MSD risk factors. Results: Among the 51 nurses (mean age = 35.64 years), 35.3% used lifting systems sometimes, 37.3% rarely, and 15.7% never. A total of 25.5% reported insufficient ergonomic training. Frequent use of hoists was significantly associated with lower MSD prevalence (p < 0.001). Logistic regression showed that younger age (OR = 1.628, p = 0.020) and female gender were predictors of higher MSD risk. Lower back pain was the most reported issue (63%), but its severity was lower among nurses who regularly used lifting devices. Conclusion: Frequent use of patient lifting systems was associated with a lower prevalence and severity of MSDs, particularly lower back pain. However, inconsistent use and inadequate ergonomic training may limit their protective benefits. Healthcare facilities should prioritize training and encourage routine use of lifting systems to mitigate MSD risk among nursing staff.
subject: Original Research
  topic: section
subject: Nurses
  topic: keywords
subject: Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)
  topic: keywords
subject: Patient Lifting Systems
  topic: keywords
subject: Manual Handling
  topic: keywords
subject: Saudi Arabia
  topic: keywords
subject: Pain
  topic: keywords
creator: Ebtihal E. Tamboosi
creator: Mohammad E. Tamboosi
creator: Sara E. Tamboosi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-07-31
publication date: 2025-07-31
starting page: 321
ending page: 334
doi: 10.62464/ijoprp.v4i7.110

The Relationship Between Perceived Stress Levels and Low Back Pain in Physical Therapy Students at Jazan University
type: item
description: Background: Low back pain (LBP) is a prevalent musculoskeletal issue among university students, particularly those in physically demanding programs such as physical therapy. Psychological stress, a common experience among students, has been identified as a potential risk factor for musculoskeletal pain. However, the association between perceived psychological stress and LBP in physical therapy students remains underexplored. Objective: This study aimed to determine the relationship between perceived stress levels and low back pain in physical therapy students at Jazan University. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among physical therapy students at Jazan University between October and November 2024. Participants aged 18–30 years were surveyed using a structured questionnaire, which included the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) to assess psychological stress and a standard LBP screening questionnaire. Sociodemographic variables and health-related behaviors were also collected. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were used to analyze the data. Results: Out of 170 participants, 88% reported experiencing LBP. The majority of students (47.06%) exhibited moderate stress levels, and 28.24 % reported high stress levels. A statistically significant association was found between higher perceived stress levels and the presence of LBP (p < 0.05). Female students reported a higher prevalence of both stress and LBP compared to male students. Conclusion: This study highlights a significant relationship between psychological stress and low back pain among physical therapy students. These findings underscore the importance of implementing stress management and ergonomic education programs within academic settings to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders.
subject: Original Research
  topic: section
subject: Stress
  topic: keywords
subject: LBP
  topic: keywords
subject: Students
  topic: keywords
subject: Physical Therapy
  topic: keywords
subject: Lifestyle
  topic: keywords
creator: Ahmed Ghazwani
creator: Salma Naseeb
creator: Haninah Ali Hazzazi
creator: Afrah Mousa Hamize
creator: Ghadi Khalid Aldeghither
creator: Bhuvanesh B Ganesan
creator: Bharath K Mallela
creator: Mohammad Abu Shaphe
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-05-31
publication date: 2025-05-31
starting page: 248
ending page: 255
doi: 10.62464/ijoprp.v4i5.100

Association Between Hip Strength and Dynamic Balance in Stroke Survivors with Coexisting Knee Osteoarthritis
type: item
description: Background: Stroke patients often experience impaired balance and mobility, which may be exacerbated by comorbid knee osteoarthritis (OA). Hip muscle weakness is a key contributor to reduced dynamic stability in these populations. Objective: To examine the association between hip muscle strength and dynamic balance in stroke survivors with and without knee OA. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 37 post-stroke participants (20 without OA, 17 with OA). Hip flexion and extension strength were assessed using manual muscle testing (MMT). Balance was evaluated via One-Leg Stance (OLS), Center of Pressure (COP) range and sway, and the Functional Reach Test (FRT). Results: Stroke patients with OA demonstrated significantly lower hip strength and impaired balance performance compared to those without OA. Hip flexor and extensor strength on the affected side showed moderate correlations with OLS (r = 0.52), COP sway (r = 0.49), and FRT (r = 0.45). The OA group had reduced OLS time (p < 0.05) and a smaller COP range. Conclusion: Hip muscle weakness is significantly associated with compromised dynamic balance in stroke patients with knee OA, underscoring the importance of hip-focused rehabilitation strategies in this population.
subject: Original Research
  topic: section
subject: Physical Therapy
  topic: keywords
subject: Rehabilitation
  topic: keywords
subject: Musculoskelatel
  topic: keywords
subject: Orthopedic
  topic: keywords
creator: Debjani Mukherjee
creator: Fuzail Ahmad
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-05-31
publication date: 2025-05-31
starting page: 256
ending page: 263
doi: 10.62464/ijoprp.v4i5.108

Effectiveness of a Smartphone Application to Improve Home Exercise Adherence in Adults with Knee Osteoarthritis in Saudi Arabia: A Randomized Controlled Trial
type: item
description: Background: Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent condition globally, with poor adherence to home exercise programs (HEPs) posing a major barrier to effective management. This study examined the impact of a smartphone-based HEP with motivational text messaging on adherence, pain, and physical function among adults with knee OA in Saudi Arabia. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 42 participants diagnosed with knee OA, recruited from a clinic at King Fahad Medical City (KFMC). Participants were randomized into two groups: the intervention group (n = 21) received a HEP delivered via WhatsApp with motivational text messages, while the control group (n = 21) received a paper-based HEP. Outcomes included self-reported adherence, pain (measured by visual analogue scale), and physical function (assessed using the Arabic version of the WOMAC physical function subscale). Assessments were conducted at baseline and at 6 weeks by a physical therapist with six years of experience. Results: At 6 weeks, the intervention group demonstrated significantly greater adherence (p = 0.001), lower pain scores (p = 0.017), and improved physical function (p = 0.001) compared to the control group. Conclusion: Delivering a HEP via a smartphone application with motivational text messaging may significantly improve adherence, reduce pain, and enhance physical function in adults with knee OA. Keywords Knee Osteoarthritis, Tele Rehabilitation, Exercise Therapy, Smartphone, Mobile Applications, Treatment Adherence and Compliance.
subject: Original Research
  topic: section
subject: knee osteoarthritis
  topic: keywords
subject: telerehabilitation
  topic: keywords
subject: exercise therapy
  topic: keywords
subject: smartphone
  topic: keywords
subject: mobile applications
  topic: keywords
subject: treatment adherence
  topic: keywords
subject: compliance
  topic: keywords
creator: Lujain Aldahash
creator: Hana Alsobayel
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-05-31
publication date: 2025-05-31
starting page: 237
ending page: 247
doi: 10.62464/ijoprp.v4i5.109

Comparing Outcomes of Surgical and Nonsurgical Management for Achilles Tendon Ruptures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
type: item
description: Background: Achilles tendon rupture is a common injury, and the optimal management approach—surgical or conservative—remains debated. The current systematic review and meta-analysis aim to compare surgical and conservative management strategies, considering efficacy and safety, by assessing the functional outcomes, rate of complications, and rate of re-rupture. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple electronic databases to identify eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing surgical and conservative management of Achilles tendon rupture. The main key outcomes included Achilles Tendon Score (ATRS), Complications incidence, including the incidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). For meta-analysis, effect sizes, confidence intervals, and heterogeneity were calculated depending on a random-effects model. Results: The results of the current review showed a substantial advantage of surgical management showed a significant advantage in ATRS scores (pooled estimate: 2.241; 95% CI: 1.004–3.478; p < 0.001). Regarding safety, no significant difference was found in DVT incidence (pooled estimate: 0.460; 95% CI: 0.163–1.302; p = 0.144; I² = 0%); the surgical group showed a non-significant increase in infection rates (pooled estimate: 2.217; 95% CI: 0.763–6.446; p = 0.144; I² = 0%) and conservative management had a significantly higher rate of re-rupture (pooled estimate: 0.182; 95% CI: 0.085–0.391; p < 0.001; I² = 0%). Conclusion: Surgical management is associated with a lower risk of re-rupture, while both approaches yield comparable long-term functional outcomes.
subject: Syatematic Review
  topic: section
subject: Achilles tendon rupture
  topic: keywords
subject: Surgical management
  topic: keywords
subject: Conservative treatment
  topic: keywords
subject: meta-analysis
  topic: keywords
subject: Clinical outcomes
  topic: keywords
subject: Complications
  topic: keywords
creator: Adel Alghamdi
creator: Faisal Alzahrani
creator: Amer Alghamdi
creator: Khader Alghamdi
creator: Alaa Alzahrani
creator: Mubarak Alsharari
creator: Hussain Alghamdi
creator: Abduljawad Alghamdi
creator: Mohamed Alghamdi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 264
ending page: 280
doi: 10.62464/ijoprp.v4i6.116

https://inkwellinfinite.com/index.php/ijprp/article/view/111
type: item
title: Association of COVID-19 Knowledge, Adherence to Precautionary Measures, Human Behavior, and Positive Mental Health in the Saudi General Public: Considerations for Innovative Tailored Rehabilitation Approaches
description: Background: The severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2, also known as COVID-19) pandemic has wreaked havoc worldwide and affected the mental health of many people by prompting fears of falling sick, dying, helplessness, and stigma. Therefore, timely recognition of mental health issues is needed. This study aimed to assess the relationships of knowledge, adherence to precautionary measures, human behavior, and positive mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic on the general Saudi population. Methods: An online survey using snowballing sampling was conducted to collect data on respondents’ socio-demographics, COVID-19 knowledge, adherence to precautions, human behavior, and positive state of mental health during the pandemic. Path analysis was used to measure effects among these factors. Results: Survey responses revealed that fatigue significantly affected performance, with 47% of participants strongly agreeing that fatigue impacted their cognitive and motor functions. Significant positive correlations were found between the EXP GPD Score and Control GPD Score (0.8031), and between EXP GPD Errors and Control GPD Errors (0.8595). The regression analysis indicated that for every unit increase in the Fatigue Borg Scale, the EXP GPD Score (time) increased by approximately 0.8036 units. Paired samples t-tests confirmed significant differences in performance and perceived fatigue between control and post-fatigue groups. Conclusion: In the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak in Saudi Arabia, knowledge about the disease, and human behavior affected positive mental ‎health. The findings found that positive mental health could be enhanced with clear communication and dissemination of knowledge, and having appropriate human behavior in the early stages of an outbreak. Further research is warranted to explore the effect of adhering to precautionary measures on having positive mental health in future pandemics.
subject: Original Research
  topic: section
subject: COVID-19; human behavior; mental health; precautionary measure; telerehabilitation, exergaming, Saudi Arabia
  topic: keywords
creator: Alia M Almoajel
creator: Saad Alhammad
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 292
ending page: 303
doi: 10.62464/ijoprp.v4i6.111

Awareness and Knowledge of Role of Physiotherapy in The Management of Knee Osteoarthritis Among Al-Baha Populations
type: item
description: Background: Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disease-causing significant morbidity and functional limitations globally. Physiotherapy plays a key role in managing knee OA, offering non-invasive approaches to reduce symptoms and improve joint function. This study aimed to assess awareness, knowledge, and perceived barriers to physiotherapy use for knee OA among adults in the Al-Baha region of Saudi Arabia—an underrepresented area in musculoskeletal health research with limited data on physiotherapy utilization. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 781 participants in Al-Baha using a structured, self-administered Arabic-language online questionnaire. The survey collected demographic data, awareness and knowledge of knee OA and physiotherapy, and identified barriers and motivators to physiotherapy utilization. The instrument was pilot-tested before deployment. Participants were selected through convenience sampling. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Board of the Faculty of Medicine, Al-Baha University. Data were analyzed using SPSS; descriptive and inferential statistics were used, with associations tested at a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: Among participants, 96.5% were familiar with knee OA. Joint pain (84.0%) was the most recognized symptom; advanced age (78.7%) and low physical activity (65.0%) were commonly identified causes. Physiotherapy was acknowledged as a treatment by 83.1%, with exercise therapy being the most recognized (67.0%). However, 51.7% believed exercise could worsen pain. Barriers included a lack of awareness (66.9%) and limited facility access (54.6%). Chi-square analysis revealed significant associations between physiotherapy knowledge and age (p < 0.001) and occupation (p = 0.002), but not with gender, education, or nationality. Conclusion: This study highlights high general awareness of knee OA and physiotherapy but reveals substantial knowledge gaps and barriers to …
subject: Original Research
  topic: section
subject: Knee osteoarthritis, Physiotherapy, Awareness, barriers, Saudi Arabia.
  topic: keywords
creator: Nada Alghamdi
creator: Hatoon Alzahrani
creator: Tariq Alghamdi
creator: Saeed Alghamdi
creator: Abdulaziz Alomari
creator: Ahmed Alzahrani
creator: Abdulaziz Alzahrani
creator: Hasan AlAidarous
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 281
ending page: 291
doi: 10.62464/ijoprp.v4i6.107

Parents' Perceptions of Backpack Use and Its Impact on Children's Musculoskeletal Health in Saudi Schools Over Three Semesters with Textbook Integration
type: item
description: Background: Musculoskeletal disorders are increasingly common among children, particularly due to heavy backpacks or improper backpack usage in school. In Saudi schools, the integration of heavier textbooks has exacerbated this issue, raising concerns about children's long-term musculoskeletal health. This study explores parents' perceptions of backpack use and its impact on their children's musculoskeletal health during the integration of textbooks over three consecutive semesters. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted from June 1 to August 11, 2024, in Saudi Arabia. Parents or guardians of students from schools implementing textbook integration for three consecutive semesters were recruited through convenience sampling. Data were collected using an online questionnaire. Descriptive statistics summarized the data, while Chi-square, Fisher's exact tests, and One-way ANOVA were used to analyze the influence of sociodemographic factors on perceptions using SPSS version 28, with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: The study included 715 participants, primarily mothers (63.9%) and married individuals (86.8%). Most parents had a university education or higher (fathers 68.8%, mothers 65.3%), with fathers mostly employed in the governmental sector (61.9%). Half of the mothers were not working (50.7%), and 38.4% of families had a monthly income over 15,000 SAR. 81.5% of children carrying shoulder bags, 58.0% of which they chose themselves. Half spent under 15 minutes transporting their bags, mainly by private car (69.5%). A significant 81.0% of parents reported their child felt a sense of heaviness with the backpack, and 76.1% observed musculoskeletal issues, including shoulder pain (60.3%), fatigue (54.1%), neck pain (38.6%), upper back pain (39.5%), and low back pain (29.2%). Factors influencing discomfort included carrying shoulder bags (p=0.001), carrying bags for over 15 minutes (p<0.001), and walking to school (p=0.008). Overall, 59.2% e…
subject: Original Research
  topic: section
subject: Backpack Usage
  topic: keywords
subject: Parents' Perceptions
  topic: keywords
subject: Musculoskeletal Health
  topic: keywords
subject: Children's Health
  topic: keywords
subject: Textbook Integration
  topic: keywords
creator: Abdul-Wahab Ahmed Alzahrani
creator: Mohammed Mousa Alzahrani
creator: Abdullah Ahmed Alsalem
creator: Yahya Fahad Alzahrani
creator: Khader Abdullah Alghamdi
creator: Meshal Salman Ofaysan
creator: Mona Saad Alshehri
creator: Ibrahim Khalid Alghamdi
creator: Fahad Suhayman Alanazi
creator: Essam Wael Zarei
creator: Mohammad Abdulaziz Alrashed
creator: Salem Hussain Almutlaq
creator: Abdullah Mousa Alzahrani
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-04-30
publication date: 2025-04-30
starting page: 200
ending page: 2018
doi: 10.62464/ijoprp.v4i4.99

Effectiveness of Self-administered High Frequency pocket TENS in pain intensity, and workability among university students with Primary Dysmenorrhea – A quasi-experimental study design
type: item
description: Background: Primary Dysmenorrhea (PD) is a painful condition affecting women of childbearing age, often hindering daily tasks. In Physical Therapy, Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is widely used to relieve pain without side effects. Our study assesses the effectiveness of self-administered high-frequency pocket TENS (HF TENS) in reducing pain and enhancing workability among university students with PD in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. Methods: A quasi-experimental study involving 51 female university students was conducted. Participants received HF TENS with a pulse frequency of 100Hz for 30 minutes from day 1 to day 3 of their menstrual cycle. Pain intensity was assessed using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) for lower abdomen pain (LAP) and low back pain (LBP). The Workability, Location, Intensity, Days of Pain, and Dysmenorrhea (WaLIDD) score was used to determine dysmenorrhea severity. Pre-intervention and post-intervention assessments were conducted on day 1 and day 3 of the menstrual cycle, respectively. Results: The Wilcoxon signed-rank test revealed a significant reduction in pain intensity for both LAP (Median pre-6; post-1) and LBP (Median pre-5; post-1) following HF TENS application (p < 0.001). Similarly, a significant improvement in dysmenorrhea severity was observed (p < 0.001). Fisher's exact test indicated a statistically significant association between HF TENS treatment and dysmenorrhea severit. Conclusion: Self-administered HF pocket TENS application effectively reduces pain intensity and improves workability among university students with PD in Jazan, Saudi Arabia.
subject: Original Research
  topic: section
subject: Primary Dysmenorrhea
  topic: keywords
subject: Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
  topic: keywords
subject: Menstruation
  topic: keywords
creator: Ramya Ramasamy Sanjeevi
creator: Karthick Balasubramanian
creator: Muzun Nasser AlShahrani
creator: Amani Abdullah Khubrani
creator: Laila Abdullah J Sairam
creator: Razan Razan
creator: Manar Abdulrahman Abdullah Hamdi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-04-30
publication date: 2025-04-30
starting page: 230
ending page: 236
doi: 10.62464/ijoprp.v4i4.101

Comparison Of Kaltenborn Mobilization With Muscle Energy Technique In Patients With Adhesive Capsulitis: A Randomized Clinical Trial
type: item
description: Background: Adhesive capsulitis is one of the disabling conditions that significantly affects individuals of all ages. Manual therapy is one of the most effective approaches to treat this condition. Objective: This study aims to compare the effectiveness of Kaltenborn mobilization and Muscle energy techniques on pain, disability, and Range of motion in patients with Adhesive Capsulitis. Methods: This was a parallel arm single-blinded randomized clinical trial. Seventy-six patients with adhesive capsulitis were randomly assigned into two groups through computer software. The outcome measures included pain measured through the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), shoulder range of motion measured by a Goniometer, and disability measured by the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI). The measurements were taken at baseline and in the 4th week after the intervention. The analysis was done through paired t-test using SPSS version 26. Results: The results of this randomized clinical trial exhibited that Kaltenborne mobilization resulted in a significant difference in pain, shoulder range of motion, and functional mobility in patients with adhesive capsulitis (p-value <0.05). The within-group comparison showed improvement in both groups however between-group comparison showed greater improvement in the Kaltenborn group. Conclusion: This study concluded that Kaltenborn mobilization was more effective in reducing pain, disabilities, and increasing range of motion along with functional mobility in patients with adhesive capsulitis.
subject: Original Research
  topic: section
subject: Adhesive capsulitis, Kaltenborn, Muscle Energy Techniques
  topic: keywords
creator: Muhammad Zohaib
creator: Sahreen Anwar
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-04-30
publication date: 2025-04-30
starting page: 219
ending page: 229
doi: 10.62464/ijoprp.v4i4.103

Prevalence and risk factors of clubfoot in Al-Baha region - Saudi Arabia
type: item
description: Background: Clubfoot, or Congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV), is a structural defect that occurs early in pregnancy. It affects 1 in 1000 live births and can lead to permanent disability and severe social and economic consequences if untreated. It is more common in boys, with a male-to-female ratio of 2:1, and has a strong association with family inheritance and consanguinity. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of clubfoot and identify associated risk factors in the Al-Baha Region. Methods: The research team analyzed the medical records of patients from the orthopedic clinic at King Fahad Hospital between January 2020 and January 2024. A data sheet, designed by experts and consultants, captured demographic data, defect location, possible risk factors, associated anomalies, and treatment plans. Data analysis was conducted using Chi-square tests through SPSS v28. Results: The study found that 94.1% of patients were male, and 76.5% had bilateral deformities. Nearly half (47.1%) of the patients had parents with consanguineous marriages. Identified risk factors included preeclampsia, oligohydramnios, gestational diabetes, and family history of deformities. No significant correlation was found between maternal drug exposure or infections and clubfoot. Treatment, which primarily involved serial casting and Achilles tenotomy, resulted in 41.2% of patients walking normally post-treatment. Conclusions: This study highlights the prevalence of clubfoot in the Al-Baha region and its association with risk factors, emphasizing the importance of genetic screening, early diagnosis, and public awareness to improve outcomes.
subject: Original Research
  topic: section
subject: TEV
  topic: keywords
subject: Clubfoot
  topic: keywords
subject: Congenital deformity
  topic: keywords
subject: Consanguinity
  topic: keywords
subject: Congenital Talipes Equinovarus
  topic: keywords
subject: Genetic Predisposition
  topic: keywords
subject: Risk Factor
  topic: keywords
creator: Khader Abdullah K. Alghamdi
creator: Basim Abdullah Alzahrani
creator: Abdulwahab Ahmed Alzahrani
creator: Faisal Mohammed S. Alzahrani
creator: Ahmed Surayyi A. Khallufah
creator: Alaa Khalid A. Alzahrani
creator: Adel Khaled S. Alghamdi
creator: Nada Nasser A. Alghamdi
creator: Amer Khaled S. Alghamdi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-01-31
publication date: 2025-01-31
starting page: 111
ending page: 119
doi: 10.62464/ijoprp.v4i1.80

Accreditation and Its Impact on Physiotherapy Outcomes in Saudi Arabia Advancing Quality and Patient Care: A Narrative Review
type: item
description: This literature review examines the role of healthcare accreditation frameworks—specifically CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities), CBAHI (Saudi Central Board for Accreditation of Healthcare Institutions), Planetree, and JCI (Joint Commission International)—in enhancing physiotherapy services in Saudi Arabia. A systematic search was performed using PubMed and Google Scholar databases, focusing on peer-reviewed studies published in English between January 2000 and December 2024 that assessed accreditation’s influence on physiotherapy care quality. The review identified significant improvements attributable to accreditation, notably enhanced patient safety through reduced clinical errors, strengthened adherence to standardized clinical guidelines, and effective risk management. Accreditation also facilitated staff professional development, leading to increased competency, better clinical decision-making, and improved service delivery. Furthermore, standardizing physiotherapy practices through accreditation frameworks positively influenced patient outcomes, including better functional recovery, increased patient satisfaction, and higher overall service quality. The findings underscore accreditation as a critical strategy for advancing physiotherapy care standards in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the need for continued implementation and support. The review advocates for widespread adoption and sustained integration of accreditation frameworks to achieve ongoing improvement in rehabilitation service quality and patient experiences within the Saudi healthcare system.
subject: Original Research
  topic: section
subject: Physiotherapy, Accreditation, Quality, Saudi Arabia, Outcome.
  topic: keywords
creator: Abdullah Al Shami
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-03-27
publication date: 2025-03-27
starting page: 193
ending page: 199
doi: 10.62464/ijoprp.v4i3.76

Assessing Flat Foot Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors in Jazan Region: Demographic and Lifestyle Considerations
type: item
description: Objective: The primary goal of this research was to determine the prevalence of flatfoot among adult residents of the Jazan region in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, the study sought to identify significant risk factors associated with flatfoot by analyzing demographic variables, clinical conditions, and lifestyle characteristics. Methods: This study employed a descriptive observational approach, enrolling 317 adults aged between 18 and 60 years residing in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. A self-administered online questionnaire was used to collect data, yielding 210 valid responses suitable for analysis. The questionnaire was specifically designed to capture information related to the prevalence of flatfoot, associated symptoms, and various potential risk factors, including demographic data, clinical history, lifestyle behaviors, and footwear choices. Data analysis was conducted using Microsoft Excel, with statistical measures used to establish associations between flatfoot prevalence and the evaluated variables. Results: The findings revealed that the overall prevalence of flatfoot differed significantly by gender, with females displaying a higher prevalence rate (8%) compared to males (3%). Key risk factors identified included elevated body mass index (BMI), with higher prevalence observed among individuals classified as overweight or obese—specifically, 12% of females and 5% of males in these categories were affected by flatfoot. Additionally, lifestyle factors, particularly the use of unsupportive or improper footwear, were strongly linked to increased flatfoot risk. Clinical comorbidities, notably diabetes mellitus and rheumatoid arthritis, also emerged as significant risk factors associated with flatfoot in the studied population. Conclusion: The prevalence of flatfoot in Jazan underscores the need for targeted interventions that focus on modifiable risk factors, including weight management and proper footwear. Public health initiatives should prioritize awareness and preve…
subject: Original Research
  topic: section
subject: Flatfoot
  topic: keywords
subject: Prevalence
  topic: keywords
subject: Risk Factors
  topic: keywords
subject: BMI
  topic: keywords
creator: Mohammad Abu Shaphe
creator: Amwaj Hassan Mashraqi
creator: Fatimah mohammed mahnashi
creator: Suha Mohammed Debaji
creator: Duaa Nasser Alhazmi
creator: Nawal Ali Moafa
creator: Abeer ibrahem sabag
creator: Bashair Mosa Tofian
creator: Remaz Yahya Al Darbi
creator: Hadi Ahmed Shareef
creator: Abdur Raheem Khan
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Physical Therapy Research & Practice https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-03-27
publication date: 2025-03-27
starting page: 186
ending page: 192
doi: 10.62464/ijoprp.v4i3.86