Publications

@article{nokey,

title = {Qigong Versus Usual Exercise in the Treatment of Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain as an Add-On to a Standardized Physiotherapy Program},

author = {S. Sotiropoulos and T. Plavoukou and G. Georgoudis},

doi = {10.7759/cureus.81492},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-01-01},

journal = {Cureus},

volume = {17},

number = {3},

pages = {e81492},

keywords = {back pain, exercise},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Physiotherapy Management and Technology Use for Parkinson’s Disease: A Survey Among Greek Physiotherapists},

author = {D. Papageorgiou and V. Sakellari and G. A. Koumantakis and V. Gkoraki and N. Chrysagis},

url = {https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/15/2/629},

issn = {2076-3417},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-01-01},

journal = {Appl Sci},

volume = {15},

number = {2},

pages = {629},

keywords = {Parkinson's, survey, technology},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Early Mobilization of Critically Ill Patients: A Survey of Knowledge, Practices and Perceptions of Greek Physiotherapists},

author = {E. Papadimitriou and S. Petras and G. Mitsiou and I. Vasileiadis and E. Grammatopoulou and I. Patsaki},

doi = {10.3390/healthcare13111248},

issn = {2227-9032 (Print) 

2227-9032},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-01-01},

journal = {Healthcare (Basel)},

volume = {13},

number = {11},

pages = {1248},

keywords = {early mobilization, ICU, intensive care, survey},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Reliability and Validity Measures of the Patellofemoral Subscale KOOS-PF in Greek Patients with Patellofemoral Pain},

author = {I. Moros and E. C. Boutsikari and G. Plakoutsis and E. Paraskevopoulos and G. A. Koumantakis and M. Papandreou},

doi = {10.3390/jfmk10010044},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-01-01},

journal = {J Funct Morphol Kinesiol},

volume = {10},

number = {1},

pages = {44},

keywords = {knee, musculoskeletal, pain, patellofemoral},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {The effect of clinical Pilates combined with routine physiotherapy on respiratory function in patients with non-specific low back pain},

author = {V. Laosoglou and G. A. Koumantakis and M. Moutzouri and P. Tatsios and M. Karameri and E. Grammatopoulou and I. Patsaki},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-01-01},

journal = {Arch Hell Med},

volume = {42},

number = {4},

pages = {548-553},

keywords = {back pain, exercise, Pilates, respiratory},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {The Use of a Virtual Reality Training System on Gross Motor Function and Balance in Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Multiple Single-Subject Experimental Report},

author = {A. Kolezoi and A. Lepoura and A. Christakou and N. Chrysagis and P. Lalou and V. Sakellari},

url = {https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/15/1/443},

issn = {2076-3417},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-01-01},

journal = {Appl Sci},

volume = {15},

number = {1},

pages = {443},

keywords = {cerebral palsy, VR},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {The Effect of Whole-Body Vibration on Upper Extremity Function in Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Pilot Study},

author = {M. Kelaiditi and A. Lepoura and A. Christakou and N. Chrysagis and V. Sakellari},

url = {https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/15/2/552},

issn = {2076-3417},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-01-01},

journal = {Appl Sci},

volume = {15},

number = {2},

pages = {552},

keywords = {cerebral palsy, vibration training},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Predictive Factors of Initial Pain and Disability in Patients Presenting With Neck Pain for Rehabilitation},

author = {E. D. Kapernaros and M. Moutzouri and G. Krekoukias and N. Chrysagis and G. A. Koumantakis},

doi = {10.7759/cureus.87361},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-01-01},

journal = {Cureus},

volume = {17},

number = {7},

pages = {e87361},

keywords = {disability, musculoskeletal, neck pain, pain, psychological},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Attitudes of People With Chronic Musculoskeletal Disorders Towards Telerehabilitation: A Cross-Sectional Survey},

author = {E. Tsolakou and G. Gioftsos and E. Grammatopoulou and G. A. Koumantakis and S. Karanasios and M. Moutzouri},

doi = {10.7759/cureus.87012},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-01-01},

journal = {Cureus},

volume = {17},

number = {6},

pages = {e87012},

keywords = {musculoskeletal, survey, telerehabilitation},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Validity and Reliability of the Lower Extremity Motor Coordination Test (LEMOCOT) in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis},

author = {D. Zarbouti and M. Manola and A. Christakou and G. A. Koumantakis and T. K. Doskas and V. Sakellari},

url = {https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/14/8/3233},

issn = {2076-3417},

year  = {2024},

date = {2024-01-01},

journal = {Appl Sci},

volume = {14},

number = {8},

pages = {3233},

keywords = {coordination, multiple sclerosis, reliability, validity},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Reliability of the K-Force Muscle Controller Dynamometer on Eccentric and Isometric Hip Adduction Strength},

author = {C. Pippas and A. Emmanouilidis and S. Karanasios and G. A. Koumantakis and G. Gioftsos},

doi = {10.4236/ojtr.2024.123017},

year  = {2024},

date = {2024-01-01},

journal = {OJTR},

volume = {12},

pages = {224-235},

keywords = {hip, reliability, strength},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Greek Cross-Cultural Adaptation, Reliability, and Validity of the Quick Foot and Ankle Ability Measure Questionnaire},

author = {G. A. Koumantakis and A. Galazoulas and M. Stefanakis and E. Paraskevopoulos and G. Gioftsos and M. Papandreou},

doi = {10.1123/jsr.2022-0359},

issn = {1056-6716},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-01-01},

journal = {J Sport Rehabil},

volume = {32},

number = {8},

pages = {855-62},

keywords = {ankle, instability, questionnaire},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Physiotherapists' current knowledge and clinical use of tools to predict, monitor, evaluate the treatment outcome and classify patients with sciatica in Greece: an online survey.},

author = {S. Karanasios and A. Georgaki and N. Kontakiotis and M. Papandreou and G. Gioftsos},

doi = {https://doi.org/10.1142/S0218957722500257},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-01-01},

journal = {J Musculoskelet Res},

volume = {26},

number = {1},

pages = {2250025},

keywords = {sciatica  classification, survey},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Validity and reliability evidence of the fear of COVID-19 scale in Greek patients with asthma},

author = {M. Karameri and I. Patsaki and M. Moutzouri and G. Koumantakis and D. Tsimouris and A. Haniotou and E. Grammatopoulou},

url = {http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/erj/62/suppl_67/PA4606.full.pdf},

doi = {https://doi.org/10.1183/13993003.congress-2023.PA4606},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-01-01},

journal = {European Respiratory Journal},

volume = {62},

number = {Suppl 67},

pages = {PA4606},

keywords = {asthma, COVID-19, questionnaire},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Validity and reliability evidence of Fear of COVID-19 Scale in Greek people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease},

author = {A. Daskalakis and S. Giannoulaki and I. Patsaki and M. Moutzouri and G. Koumantakis and A. Haniotou and A. Evangelodimou and E. Grammatopoulou},

url = {http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/erj/62/suppl_67/PA3421.full.pdf},

doi = {10.1183/13993003.congress-2023.PA3421},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-01-01},

journal = {European Respiratory Journal},

volume = {62},

number = {suppl 67},

pages = {PA3421},

keywords = {COPD, COVID-19, questionnaire},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Οι αντιλήψεις και πρακτικές των Ελλήνων φυσικοθεραπευτών σχετικά με τη χρήση του θεραπευτικού υπερήχου στη χρόνια τενοντοπάθεια πλάγιας έξω επιφάνειας αγκώνα},

author = {Κ. Μανουσάκη and Δ. Στασινόπουλος},

doi = {https://doi.org/10.55742/ICJJ4975},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Φysikotherapia},

volume = {25},

number = {4},

pages = {18-66},

keywords = {elbow, survey, tendinopathy},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Unlocking the black box of geriatric physiotherapy : Quantification of physical activity and walking parameters during inpatient geriatric rehabilitation therapy sessions},

author = {M. Stefanakis and V. Sakellari and J. Klenk and K. Kampe and M. Klimek and K. Pfeiffer and C. Becker},

doi = {10.1007/s00391-022-02126-3},

issn = {0948-6704},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Z Gerontol Geriatr},

volume = {55},

number = {8},

pages = {637-643},

keywords = {aged, exercise, physical activity, walking},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Greek physiotherapists' contemporary knowledge and practice for lateral elbow tendinopathy: An online survey},

author = {P. Samaras and S. Karanasios and D. Stasinopoulos and G. Gioftsos},

doi = {10.1016/j.msksp.2022.102502},

issn = {2468-7812},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Musculoskelet Sci Pract},

volume = {57},

pages = {102502},

keywords = {lateral elbow tendinopathy, survey},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Exercised-Induced Hypoalgesia following An Elbow Flexion Low-Load Resistance Exercise with Blood Flow Restriction: A Sham-Controlled Randomized Trial in Healthy Adults},

author = {S. Karanasios and A. Sozeri and G. A. Koumantakis and G. Gioftsos},

doi = {10.3390/healthcare10122557},

issn = {2227-9032 (Print) 

2227-9032},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Healthcare (Basel)},

volume = {10},

number = {12},

pages = {2557},

keywords = {BFR, exercise, hypoalgesia},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {How effective is a blended web-based rehabilitation for improving pain, physical activity, and knee function of patients with knee osteoarthritis? Study protocol for a randomized control trial},

author = {M. Moutzouri and G. Gioftsos},

doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0268652},

issn = {1932-6203},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

urldate = {2022-01-01},

journal = {PLoS One},

volume = {17},

number = {5},

pages = {e0268652},

abstract = {Due to the chronic nature of knee osteoarthritis (KOA) self-management is considered an essential part of therapy to improve physical function, activity, pain and quality of life (QoL). Web-based rehabilitation may be a potential innovative mode of patient' training to guide management compared to usual care, especially with the current restrictions pandemic imposed. Moreover, in order to alter KOA patients' behavior towards physical activity (PA), it may be more attractive and motivating to combine within their rehabilitation program, outdoor real life local activity that could feasible to be sustained in the future. Aim of the current study is to evaluate the effects of a blended web-based rehabilitation compared with structured PA alone in patients with KOA. This is a randomized multi-center study with two prospective arms. Fifty-six eligible participants with KOA will be recruited from the West Attica region (considered as structurally weak areas). After a comprehensive face-to face training session, participants will follow a 6-week web-based rehabilitation program, consisting of exercise, advice material enhanced outdoor structured PA. The control group will be encouraged to follow the outdoor structured PA alone. Baseline, 6-week and 12-week follow up assessments will be performed. The primary outcome is self-reported physical function as measured by the Knee Injury Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). Secondary measures include pain, function (Timed Up and Go Test, Sit to Stand test), PA levels (Lower Extremity Activity Scale, Baecke Scale and pedometer), psychological perspective (Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia) and health-related QoL (Short-Form 12). Baseline-adjusted Analysis of Variance will be used to test for group differences in the primary and secondary outcomes. The study will evaluate the blended web-based exercise and advice material, enhanced with outdoor PA in many respects compared to the outdoor PA alone so as to promote self-management care programs for KOA patients. Trial registration: Prospectively registered ISRCTN12950684 (27-09-2020).},

note = {1932-6203 

Moutzouri, Maria 

Gioftsos, Georgios},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {The Effectiveness of Spinal, Diaphragmatic, and Specific Stabilization Exercise Manual Therapy and Respiratory-Related Interventions in Patients with Chronic Nonspecific Neck Pain: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis},

author = {P. I. Tatsios and E. Grammatopoulou and Z. Dimitriadis and M. Papandreou and E. Paraskevopoulos and S. Spanos and P. Karakasidou and G. A. Koumantakis},

doi = {10.3390/diagnostics12071598},

issn = {2075-4418 (Print) 

2075-4418},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Diagnostics (Basel)},

volume = {12},

number = {7},

abstract = {Patients with nonspecific chronic neck pain (NSCNP) exhibit respiratory dysfunction. This systematic review aimed to analyze randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effect of spinal and/or diaphragmatic and/or specific stabilization exercise manual therapy and/or respiratory exercises on musculoskeletal and respiratory diagnostic outcomes in patients with NSCNP. A systematic search and selection of RCTs was performed in three scientific databases (Pubmed, Scopus, and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro)) and one search engine (Google Scholar) from inception to April 2022. Relevant studies published in the English language were extracted, evaluated, and independently rated for methodological quality (PEDro scale). The quality of the evidence was assessed with the GRADE approach. Out of 1089 studies collected in total, 1073 were excluded (i.e., did not meet the inclusion criteria or were duplicates). Sixteen RCTs were finally included, rated on 5.62/10 (PEDro score) on average for methodological quality. Overall, there was sparse evidence that spinal and/or diaphragmatic manual therapy and/or trunk stabilization exercises and/or respiratory exercises significantly improved pain, disability, and respiratory outcomes in patients with NSCNP immediately post-treatment. However, the clinical heterogeneity between studies was significant, and the level of certainty of the evidence was low to very low. More, high-quality RCTs are required, contributing to the holistic diagnostic monitoring and management of patients with NSCNP.},

note = {2075-4418 

Tatsios, Petros I 

Grammatopoulou, Eirini 

Dimitriadis, Zacharias 

Papandreou, Maria 

Paraskevopoulos, Eleftherios 

Spanos, Savvas 

Karakasidou, Palina 

Koumantakis, George A},

keywords = {LAdPhyss 2; breathing exercises; breathing re-education; chronic neck pain; diaphragm; manual therapy; respiratory dysfunction},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {The Effect of Body Position and the Reliability of Upper Limb Arterial Occlusion Pressure Using a Handheld Doppler Ultrasound for Blood Flow Restriction Training},

author = {S. Karanasios and C. Koutri and M. Moutzouri and S. A. Xergia and V. Sakellari and G. Gioftsos},

doi = {10.1177/19417381211043877},

issn = {1941-7381 (Print) 

1941-0921},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Sports Health},

volume = {14},

number = {5},

pages = {717-724},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: The precise calculation of arterial occlusive pressure is essential to accurately prescribe individualized pressures during blood flow restriction training. Arterial occlusion pressure in the lower limb varies significantly between different body positions while similar reports for the upper limb are lacking. HYPOTHESIS: Body position has a significant effect in upper limb arterial occlusive pressure. Using cuffs with manual pump and a handheld Doppler ultrasound can be a reliable method to determine upper limb arterial blood flow restriction. STUDY DESIGN: A randomized repeated measures design. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 3. METHODS: Forty-two healthy participants (age mean ± SD = 28.1 ± 7.7 years) completed measurements in supine, seated, and standing position by 3 blinded raters. A cuff with a manual pump and a handheld acoustic ultrasound were used. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test with Bonferroni correction was used to analyze differences between body positions. A within-subject coefficient of variation and an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) test were used to calculate reproducibility and reliability, respectively. RESULTS: A significantly higher upper limb arterial occlusive pressure was found in seated compared with supine position (P < 0.031) and in supine compared with standing position (P < 0.031) in all raters. An ICC of 0.894 (95% CI = 0.824-0.939, P < 0.001) was found in supine, 0.973 (95% CI = 0.955-0.985, P < 0.001) in seated, and 0.984 (95% CI = 0.973-0.991, P < 0.001) in standing position. ICC for test-retest reliability was found 0.90 (95% CI = 0.814-0.946, P < 0.001), 0.873 (95% CI = 0.762-0.93, P < 0.001), and 0.858 (95% CI = 0.737-0.923, P < 0.001) in the supine, seated, and standing position, respectively. CONCLUSION: Upper limb arterial occlusive pressure was significantly dependent on body position. The method showed excellent interrater reliability and repeatability between different days. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Prescription of individualized pressures during blood flow restriction training requires measurement of upper limb arterial occlusive pressure in the appropriate position. The use of occlusion cuffs with a manual pump and a handheld Doppler ultrasound showed excellent reliability; however, the increased measurement error compared with the differences in arterial occlusive pressure between certain positions should be carefully considered for the clinical application of the method. STRENGTH OF RECOMMENDATIONS TAXONOMY (SORT): B.},

note = {1941-0921 

Karanasios, Stefanos 

Koutri, Charikleia 

Moutzouri, Maria 

Xergia, Sofia A 

Sakellari, Vasiliki 

Gioftsos, George 

Journal Article 

Randomized Controlled Trial 

Sports Health. 2022 Sep-Oct;14(5):717-724. doi: 10.1177/19417381211043877. Epub 2021 Sep 13.},

keywords = {LAdPhyss 2 ;Kaatsu training; arterial occlusion; blood flow restriction training; reliability},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Low-load resistance training with blood flow restriction is effective for managing lateral elbow tendinopathy: a randomized, sham-controlled trial},

author = {S. Karanasios and V. Korakakis and M. Moutzouri and SΑ Xergia and Ε Tsepis and G. Gioftsos},

doi = {10.2519/jospt.2022.11211},

issn = {0190-6011},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {J Orthop Sports Phys Ther},

pages = {1-30},

abstract = {Objective: To evaluate the effect of low-load resistance training with blood flow restriction (LLRT-BFR) when compared to LLRT with sham-BFR in patients with lateral elbow tendinopathy (LET). Design: Randomized controlled trial Methods: Forty-six patients with LET were randomly assigned to a LLRT-BFR or a LLRT with sham-BFR treatment group. All patients received soft tissue massage, supervised exercises with BFR or sham-intervention (twice a week for six weeks), advice and a home exercise programme. The primary outcome measures were pain intensity, patient-rated tennis elbow evaluation (PRTEE) score, pain-free grip strength (PFGS) and global rating of change (GROC), measured at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. Between-group differences were evaluated using mixed-effects models with participant-specific random effects for continuous data. GROC was analysed using logistic regression. Results: Statistically significant between-group differences were found in favor of LLRT-BFR compared to LLRT with sham-BFR in pain intensity at 12-weeks (-1.54, 95%CI:-2.89 to -0.18; p=0.026), PFGS ratio at 6-weeks (0.20, 95%CI:0.06 to 0.34; p=0.005) and PRTEE at 6- and 12-weeks (-11.92, 95%CI:-20.26 to -3.59; p=0.006 and -15.23, 95%CI:-23.57 to -6.9; p<0.001, respectively) follow-up. At 6- and 12-weeks, patients in the LLRT-BFR group had greater odds of reporting complete recovery or significant improvement (OR=6.0},

note = {1938-1344 

Karanasios, Stefanos 

Korakakis, Vasileios 

Moutzouri, Maria 

Xergia, Sofia Α 

Tsepis, Εlias 

Gioftsos, George 

Journal Article 

Review 

United States 

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022 Sep 13:1-30. doi: 10.2519/jospt.2022.11211.},

keywords = {LAdPhyss 2; exercises; kaatsu training; lateral epicondylitis; rehabilitation; tennis elbow},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Cross cultural adaptation and validation of the Greek version of the Western Ontario Rotator Cuff (WORC) index},

author = {S. Karanasios and V. Korakakis and A. Diochnou and G. Oikonomou and I. A. Gedikoglou and G. Gioftsos},

doi = {10.1080/09638288.2022.2083704},

issn = {0963-8288},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Disabil Rehabil},

pages = {1-10},

abstract = {PURPOSE: We aimed to translate and cross-culturally adapt the Western Ontario Rotator Cuff index into Greek (WORC-GR) and evaluate its reliability and validity in a Greek speaking population with rotator cuff (RC) disorders. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Translation and cross-cultural adaptation process followed published guidelines. Content and face validity were assessed by 9 experts and 16 patients with RC pathologies, respectively. Internal structure, reliability, measurement error, and convergent validity (correlation with the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand - DASH, Shoulder Pain and Disability Index - SPADI, and Short Form-36) of the index were evaluated in 104 participants (44.2% women, mean age ± SD: 44.9 ± 15.01 years) with RC related pain. RESULTS: The WORC-GR showed excellent item and scale content validity index (0.875-1.00 and 0.975, respectively), internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha range 0.749 - 0.903) and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient: 0.942, 95% CI: 0.913-0.961). Factorial validity testing revealed a 4-factor structure explaining 69.7% of the total variance. High positive correlations were found with DASH (r = 0.806) and SPADI (r = 0.852). CONCLUSIONS: WORC-GR is a reliable and valid instrument to assess symptoms in patients with RC disorders. Further research on the content validity, internal structure, and responsiveness of the tool is required. Implications for rehabilitationThe Greek version of WORC (WORC-GR) is a clear and comprehensible patient reported outcome measure.WORC-GR has excellent internal consistency, test-retest reliability and with no floor and ceiling effects.WORC-GR is a valid outcome measure for patients with rotator cuff disorders.},

note = {1464-5165 

Karanasios, Stefanos 

Korakakis, Vasileios},

keywords = {LAdPhyss 2; WORC; patient-reported outcome measure; psychometric properties; quality of life; rotator cuff tendinopathy},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Application of Wearable Sensors Technology for Lumbar Spine Kinematic Measurements during Daily Activities following Microdiscectomy Due to Severe Sciatica},

author = {A. Triantafyllou and G. Papagiannis and S. Stasi and D. Bakalidou and M. Kyriakidou and G. Papathanasiou and E. C. Papadopoulos and P. J. Papagelopoulos and P. Koulouvaris},

doi = {10.3390/biology11030398},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Biology (Basel)},

volume = {11},

number = {3},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: The recurrence rate of lumbar spine microdiscectomies (rLSMs) is estimated to be 5-15%. Lumbar spine flexion (LSF) of more than 10° is mentioned as the most harmful load to the intervertebral disc that could lead to recurrence during the first six postoperative weeks. The purpose of this study is to quantify LSFs, following LSM, at the period of six weeks postoperatively. METHODS: LSFs were recorded during the daily activities of 69 subjects for 24 h twice per week, using Inertial Measurement Units (IMU). RESULTS: The mean number of more than 10 degrees of LSFs per hour were: 41.3/h during the 1st postoperative week (P.W.) (29.9% healthy subjects-H.S.), 2nd P.W. 60.1/h (43.5% H.S.), 3rd P.W. 74.2/h (53.7% H.S.), 4th P.W. 82.9/h (60% H.S.), 5th P.W. 97.3/h (70.4% H.S.) and 6th P.W. 105.5/h (76.4% H.S.). CONCLUSIONS: LSFs constitute important risk factors for rLDH. Our study records the lumbar spine kinematic pattern of such patients for the first time during their daily activities. Patients' data report less sagittal plane movements than healthy subjects. In vitro studies should be carried out, replicating our results to identify if such a kinematic pattern could cause rLDH. Furthermore, IMU biofeedback capabilities could protect patients from such harmful movements.},

note = {2079-7737 

Triantafyllou, Athanasios 

Papagiannis, Georgios 

Stasi, Sophia},

keywords = {ISSN = {2079-7737 (Print)  2079-7737}},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Is Lateral Elbow Tendinopathy an Appropriate Clinical Diagnostic Term When the Condition Is Persistent?},

author = {D. Stasinopoulos and M. Papadopoulou},

doi = {10.3390/jcm11092290},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {J Clin Med},

volume = {11},

number = {9},

abstract = {Lateral elbow tendinopathy (LET) seems to be the most appropriate term to use in clinical practice because previous terms such as lateral epicondylitis, tennis elbow, lateral epicondylalgia, epicondylosis, enthesopathy, Father of the Bride's Elbow, lateral elbow or extensor tendonitis, lateral elbow or extensor tendinosis, and extensor tendinopathy make reference to inappropriate aetiological, anatomical, and pathophysiological terms [...].},

note = {2077-0383 

Stasinopoulos, Dimitrios 

Papadopoulou, Marianna 

Editorial 

J Clin Med. 2022 Apr 20;11(9):2290. doi: 10.3390/jcm11092290.},

keywords = {ISSN = {2077-0383 (Print)  2077-0383}},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Clinical Significance of the Static and Dynamic Q-angle},

author = {A. Z. Skouras and A. K. Kanellopoulos and S. Stasi and A. Triantafyllou and P. Koulouvaris and G. Papagiannis and G. Papathanasiou},

doi = {10.7759/cureus.24911},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Cureus},

volume = {14},

number = {5},

pages = {e24911},

abstract = {Q-angle represents the resultant force vector of the quadriceps and patellar tendons acting on the patella. An increased Q-angle has been considered a risk factor for many disorders and injuries. This literature review challenges the clinical value of static Q-angle and recommends a more dynamic movement evaluation for making clinical decisions. Although there are many articles about static Q-angle, few have assessed the value of dynamic Q-angle. We searched Scopus and PubMed (until September 2021) to identify and summarize English-language articles evaluating static and dynamic Q-angle, including articles for dynamic knee valgus (DKV) and frontal plane projection angle. We also used textbooks and articles from references to related articles. Although static Q-angle measurement is used systematically in clinical practice for critical clinical decisions, its interpretation and clinical translation present fundamental and intractable limitations. To date, it is acceptable that mechanisms that cause patellofemoral pain and athletic injuries have a stronger correlation with dynamic loading conditions. Dynamic Q-angle has the following three dynamic elements: frontal plane (hip adduction, knee abduction), transverse plane (hip internal rotation and tibia external rotation), and patella behavior. Measuring one out of three elements (frontal plane) illustrates only one-third of this concept. Static Q-angle lacks biomechanical meaning and utility for dynamic activities. Although DKV is accompanied by hip and tibia rotation, it remains a frontal plane measurement, which provides no information about the transverse plane and patella movement. However, given the acceptable reliability and the better differentiation capability, DKV assessment is recommended in clinical practice.},

note = {2168-8184 

Skouras, Apostolos Z 

Kanellopoulos, Asimakis K 

Stasi, Sophia 

Triantafyllou, Athanasios 

Koulouvaris, Panagiotis 

Papagiannis, Georgios 

Papathanasiou, George 

Journal Article 

Review 

Cureus. 2022 May 11;14(5):e24911. doi: 10.7759/cureus.24911. eCollection 2022 May.},

keywords = {ISSN = {2168-8184 (Print)  2168-8184}},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {Comparing hip and knee focused exercises versus hip and knee focused exercises with the use of blood flow restriction training in adults with patellofemoral pain: a randomized controlled trial},

author = {A Constantinou and I Mamais and G Papathanasiou and D Lamnisos and D Stasinopoulos},

doi = {10.23736/s1973-9087.22.06691-6},

issn = {1973-9087},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

urldate = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Eur J Phys Rehabil Med},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Hip and Knee strengthening exercises are implemented in rehabilitation of patellofemoral pain patients, but typically use high loads (70% of 1 repetition maximum). This may lead to increased patellofemoral joint stress. Low load training (20 - 30% of 1 repetition maximum) with blood flow restriction could allow for exercise strength benefits to proximal and distal muscles with reduced joint stress and by promoting hypoalgesia. AIM: To compare hip and knee focused exercises with and without blood flow restriction in adults with Patellofemoral Pain for short term effectiveness. DESIGN: A randomized observed-blind controlled trial. SETTING: Musculoskeletal laboratories of the European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus. POPULATION: 60 volunteer patients, 18-40 years of age with Patellofemoral Pain. METHODS: Participants were randomly assigned to (1 reference group) Hip and knee strengthening at (70% of 1 repetition maximum) or (2 experimental group) Strengthening with blood flow restriction at (30% of 1 repetition maximum at 70% of limb occlution pressure). Treatments took place 3 times per week for 4weeks and outcomes were assessed at baseline, end of treatment and at 2months follow up. The primary outcome was the Kujala Anterior Knee Pain Scale and secondary outcomes were worst and usual pain, pain with Single leg Squats, the maximum pain free flexion angle, the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia, the Pain Catastrophizing Scale and isometric strength of Knee Extensors, Hip Extensors and Hip Abductors. RESULTS: No difference were found for the main outcome of this study between groups. There was a significant effect of time for all outcome measures in both groups. Between group differences showed a significant difference for isometric strength of Knee extensor values at 2 month follow up F(1,58)=5.56},

note = {1973-9095 

Constantinou, Antonis 

Mamais, Ioannis 

Papathanasiou, Giorgos 

Lamnisos, Demetris 

Stasinopoulos, Dimitrios 

Journal Article 

Italy 

Eur J Phys Rehabil Med. 2022 Jan 5. doi: 10.23736/S1973-9087.22.06691-6.},

keywords = {LANECASM},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {The Greek version of shoulder rating questionnaire (SRQ): Translation, cultural adaptation, a reliability and validity study in patients with rotator cuff related shoulder pain},

author = {A. Z. Cheimonidou and A. Stergioulas and D. Lamnisos and P. Galanis and D. Stasinopoulos},

doi = {10.1080/09593985.2022.2040667},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Physiother Theory Pract},

pages = {1-9},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: The Shoulder Rating Questionnaire (SRQ) was created in the English language to assess shoulder disorders in six areas: global function, pain, daily activities, recreational and athletic activities, and work. PURPOSE: The study aimed to translate and culturally adapt Shoulder Rating Questionnaire (SRQ) into Greek. METHODS: The SRQ English version was translated and adapted into the Greek language using forward translation, expert panel synthesis, and backward translation procedures. A pilot testing has been made in the target population, and the final version was created. A cross-sectional study was conducted in clinical settings with the SRQ and the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index. A total of 168 Greek adult patients with rotator cuff-related shoulder pain were recruited from physical therapy clinics. Τhe reliability of the SRQ Greek version was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients. Internal consistency was assessed using the Cronbach alpha coefficient. Concurrent validity was measured by correlating the Shoulder Rating Questionnaire with the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index using Pearson's correlation coefficient. RESULTS: The results showed that the SRQ Greek version has excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.99), test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.976), and concurrent validity (r > 0.9). No ground or ceiling effects were found. The standard error of measurement and the minimum detectable change of the total score were 5.55 and 15.38. CONCLUSIONS: The Greek Language Version of the SRQ is a reliable and valid instrument that can be used to evaluate adult patients with shoulder rotator cuff-related disorders in the acute or chronic phases and in clinical trials.},

note = {1532-5040 

Cheimonidou, Areti Zoe 

Stergioulas, Apostolos 

Lamnisos, Demetris 

Galanis, Petros 

Stasinopoulos, Dimitrios 

Journal Article 

England 

Physiother Theory Pract. 2022 Feb 25:1-9. doi: 10.1080/09593985.2022.2040667.},

keywords = {ISSN = {0959-3985}},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Mirror Cross-Exercise on a Kinetic Chain Approach Improves Throwing Performance in Professional Volleyball Athletes With Scapular Dyskinesis},

author = {E. Paraskevopoulos and T. Simeonidis and C. Tsolakis and P. Koulouvaris and M. Papandreou},

doi = {10.1123/jsr.2021-0103},

issn = {1056-6716},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {J Sport Rehabil},

volume = {31},

number = {2},

pages = {131–139},

abstract = {CONTEXT: Volleyball players have shown to be at an increased risk of developing scapular dyskinesis. The kinetic chain exercise approach has gained a lot of attention because of its claims to provide an improved motor control and scapular kinematics. A form of cross exercise, known as mirror therapy, may enhance the effects of a kinetic chain exercise approach in throwing performance. OBJECTIVE: To examine the effects of mirror cross exercise (MCE), based on a kinetic chain exercise approach in the throwing performance of volleyball athletes with scapular dyskinesis. DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial. SETTING: Biomechanics laboratory. METHODS: 39 volleyball players with scapular dyskinesis were randomly allocated into 3 groups. The first group completed a 6-week kinetic chain approach (KCA group), the second group completed a kinetic chain exercise approach program in addition to MCE group, and the control group followed only their regular training program. Before and after delivering both interventions, throwing accuracy, speed, and force were determined while measuring the ground reaction forces of the drive leg during throwing. Two-way mixed analysis of variance investigated the effects of intervention and time and their interaction. RESULTS: The results showed intervention × time statistically significant interactions for throwing accuracy, speed, and force for the MCE and the KCA groups. Over the 6-week training period, the MCE and the KCA groups showed significant improvements in throwing accuracy (P < .01) and speed (P < .01), while the ground reaction forces did not change (P > .05). Throwing force increased significantly in the MCE group (P = .01). Between-group comparison showed statistically significant improvements in the throwing accuracy for the MCE and KCA groups against the control group (P < .01) at posttesting. The MCE demonstrated superior results over the KCA in the aforementioned measures. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that the addition of MCE in a KCA program enhances energy transfer throughout the distal and proximal segments, thus improving kinetic chain recruitment and potentially preventing shoulder pathology.},

note = {1543-3072 

Paraskevopoulos, Eleftherios 

Simeonidis, Theocharis 

Tsolakis, Charilaos 

Koulouvaris, Panagiotis 

Papandreou, Maria 

Journal Article 

Randomized Controlled Trial 

United States 

J Sport Rehabil. 2022 Feb 1;31(2):131–139. doi: 10.1123/jsr.2021-0103. Epub 2021 Oct 6.},

keywords = {biomechanics; shoulder complex; trunk/core},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {The adjunctive benefits of mirror cross education on kinetic chain exercise approach in volleyball athletes with scapular dyskinesis},

author = {E. Paraskevopoulos and T. Simeonidis and C. Tsolakis and P. Koulouvaris and M. Papandreou},

doi = {10.23736/s0022-4707.21.12174-7},

issn = {0022-4707},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {J Sports Med Phys Fitness},

volume = {62},

number = {1},

pages = {98-109},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Volleyball players as overhead athletes have the highest risk of developing Scapular Dyskinesis. The kinetic chain exercise-approach has gained a lot of attention because of its claims to provide an improved motor control and scapular kinematics. A form of cross exercise, known as mirror therapy, may enhance the effects of a Kinetic-Chain-Approach on scapular posture, upper and lower limb performance. The aim of this study was to investigate the adjunctive benefits of Mirror-Cross-Education in a Kinetic-Chain-Approach, in volleyball athletes with SD. METHODS: 39 professional volleyball athletes were randomly assigned to three groups of 13 each, two experimental, the Mirror-Cross-Education and Kinetic-Chain-Approach, and one control. Both experimental groups performed a Kinetic-Chain-Approach programme, however, the Mirror-Cross-Education group performed the exercise programme with the addition of two mirrors that allowed athletes to observe their opposite non-dyskinetic scapula. Scapular posture asymmetries in cm, the Y-Balance and the Upper-Quarter YBalance after normalizing by limb length the reach distance in each direction, were assessed before and after performing each intervention for 6 weeks. RESULTS: 3x2 two-way Mixed ANOVAs detected significant interactions on scapular posture (p=0.001) on both experimental groups when compared with the control. The Y-Balance and the Upper Quarter Y-Balance scores at both Mirror-Cross-Education and Kinetic-Chain-Approach groups showed significant differences when compared with the control (p<0.05). Overall, variables showed significant superiority of the Mirror-Cross-Education group. CONCLUSIONS: The Mirror-Cross-Education demonstrated significant effects in scapular posture and in the functional balance tests of volleyball athletes with Scapular Dyskinesis.},

note = {1827-1928 

Paraskevopoulos, Eleftherios 

Simeonidis, Theocharis 

Tsolakis, Charilaos 

Koulouvaris, Panagiotis 

Papandreou, Maria 

Journal Article 

Italy 

J Sports Med Phys Fitness. 2021 Feb 22. doi: 10.23736/S0022-4707.21.12174-7.},

keywords = {athletes; volleyball; postural balance},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Study on the Reliability and Accuracy of Scolioscope, a New Digital Scoliometer},

author = {G. Krekoukias and G. A. Koumantakis and V. S. Nikolaou and K. Soultanis},

doi = {10.3390/diagnostics12010142},

issn = {2075-4418},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Diagnostics},

volume = {12},

number = {1},

abstract = {Early detection of scoliosis with school screening and quick, easy, and reliable assessment of its progress are of paramount importance in the management of patients. There have been several tools described, with the most common being the analog scoliometer. Most recently, smartphone applications have entered this area with and without the use of sleeves for the device. There is no research that has evaluated the accuracy of measurements both left and right in either digital or analog devices. In this study, we evaluated the reliability and validity of a new digital scoliometer called the Scolioscope. Thirty subjects were included for the intra-rater reliability study. ICC values >0.9 were calculated both for same-day and between-day measurements. The device was highly accurate with an average difference from the ones set on the sine bar of 0.03 deg for right-side measurements and 0.18 deg for the left. These measurements suggest a highly accurate and reliable tool.},

keywords = {scoliometer; reliability; accuracy; scolioscope; school screening},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {The effects of a strengthening program on walking and stair-climbing ability of adolescents and young adults with cerebral palsy: a randomized controlled trial},

author = {N. Chrysagis and G. A. Koumantakis and G. Theotokatos and E. Skordilis},

url = {http://dx.doi.org/10.5114/hm.2022.111177},

doi = {10.5114/hm.2022.111177},

issn = {1899-1955},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

urldate = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Human Movement},

volume = {23},

number = {4},

pages = {148-155},

keywords = {locomotion; mobility; ambulation; circuit training; diplegia; tetraplegia},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Development of a core outcome set for lateral elbow tendinopathy (COS-LET) using best available evidence and an international consensus process},

author = {M. Bateman and J. P. Evans and V. Vuvan and V. Jones and A. C. Watts and J. Phadnis and L. M. Bisset and B. Vicenzino and COS-LET Authorship Group},

doi = {10.1136/bjsports-2021-105044},

issn = {0306-3674},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Br J Sports Med},

abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To develop a core outcome set for lateral elbow tendinopathy (COS-LET) and to provide guidance for outcome evaluation in future studies. METHODS: We implemented a multi-stage mixed-methods design combining two systematic reviews, domain mapping of outcome measurement instruments to the core domains of tendinopathy, psychometric analysis of instruments, two patient focus groups and a Delphi study incorporating two surveys and an international consensus meeting. Following the OMERACT guidelines, we used a 70% threshold for consensus. RESULTS: 38 clinicians/researchers and 9 patients participated. 60 instruments were assessed for inclusion. The only instrument that was recommended for the COS-LET was Patient Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation (PRTEE) for the disability domain. Interim recommendations were made to use: the PRTEE function subscale for the function domain; PRTEE pain subscale items 1, 4 and 5 for the pain over a specified time domain; pain-free grip strength for the physical function capacity domain; a Numerical Rating Scale measuring pain on gripping for the pain on activity/loading domain; and time off work for the participation in life activities domain. No recommendations could be made for the quality-of-life, patient rating of condition and psychological factors domains. CONCLUSIONS: The COS-LET comprises the PRTEE for the disability domain. Interim-use recommendations included PRTEE subscales, time off work, pain-free grip strength and a Numerical Rating Scale measuring pain on gripping. Further work is required to validate these interim measures and develop suitable measures to capture the other domains.},

note = {1473-0480 

Bateman, Marcus 

Evans, Jonathan P},

keywords = {elbow; tendinopathy},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Development of a clinical prediction model to inform clinical decision making for classification of patients with sciatica, based on their clinical characteristics, in the Greek health system: protocol for a prospective predictive exploratory study},

author = {N. Kontakiotis and A. B. Rushton and E. Billis and G. Papathanasiou and G. Gioftsos},

doi = {10.1136/bmjopen-2021-052119},

issn = {2044-6055},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

journal = {BMJ Open},

volume = {12},

number = {1},

pages = {e052119},

abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Sciatica is one of the most common reasons for seeking healthcare for musculoskeletal pain. Sciatica is primarily considered as neuropathic in nature when neural tissue in the low back is compromised, but sometimes other non-neural structures may be involved. Appropriate assessment and management are important for patients with sciatica. Therapists use several outcome measures to assess patients to inform selection of the most suitable treatment. There is limited evidence for the best treatment of sciatica, and this is likely contributed to by having no reliable algorithm to categorise patients based on their clinical characteristics to inform physiotherapy treatment. The purpose of this study is to develop a clinical prediction model to categorise patients with sciatica, in terms of early clinical outcome, based on their initial clinical characteristics. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: A prospective observational multicentre design will recruit consecutive patients (n=467) with sciatica referred for physiotherapy. Each patient will be evaluated to determine whether or not they will be accepted into the study by answering some questions that will confirm the study's eligibility criteria. Patients' basic characteristics, patient-reported outcome measures and performance-based measures will be collected at baseline from multiple sites in the Greek territory using this same protocol, prior to commencement of treatment. The main researcher of this study will be responsible for data collection in all sites. On completion of the standard referred physiotherapy treatment after 3 weeks' time, participants will be asked by telephone to evaluate their outcome using the Global Perceived Effect Scale. For the descriptive statistical analysis, the continuous variables will be expressed in the form of 'mean' and 'SD'. In order to assess the prognostic value of each predictor, in terms of the level of improvement or worsening of the symptoms, multiple variable regression analysis will be used. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Τhis study is approved from the Ethics and Deontology Committee of the University of West Attica, Athens, Greece, protocol number: 38313-09/06/2020, 10226-10/02/2021. The study's findings will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and disseminated at national and international conferences and through social media. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42020168467.},

note = {2044-6055 

Kontakiotis, Nikolaos 

Rushton, Alison B},

keywords = {back pain; pain management; rehabilitation medicine},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Christakou2021,

title = {Motor imagery as a method of maintaining performance in pianists during forced non-practice: a single case study.},

author = {A Christakou and G Vasileiadis and E Kapreli},

doi = {doi: 10.1080/09593985.2019.1636917},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-09-01},

journal = {Physiother Theory Pract},

volume = {37},

number = {4},

pages = {540-548},

abstract = {Musicians suffer from upper limb playing-related musculoskeletal disorders that often oblige them to periodic inactivity. Objectives: To assess the effectiveness of motor imagery as a means of practice when the physical piano practice is restricted. Methods: A 17-year-old healthy pianist participated in a single subject case study with a multiple baseline design (ABC design). Performance ability was assessed during a period of the no practice, then a period of performing motor imagery and again during a period of another no practice. Assessments were performed subjectively by a professional piano teacher and objectively by the Synthesia software. Three visual analog scales were used to record stress, fatigue, and general psychological state. The participant’s motor imagery ability was recorded by the use of the Movement Imagery Questionnaire. Results: There was a statistically significant reduction in performance after no practice. There was no change in performance during motor imagery intervention. The pianist’s scores moderately correlated with the general psychological state. The Synthesia scoring presented high correlations with professional piano teacher scoring. Conclusions: Motor imagery seemed to have a positive effect in maintaining the musician’s performance level. Synthesia shows promise as an outcome measure for assessing music performance, although further research is needed.},

keywords = {imagery, motor, piano, synthesia},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{,

title = {The effectiveness of exercise program after lumbar discectomy surgery},

author = {N Atsidakou and A E Matsi and A Christakou},

doi = {doi: 10.1016/j.jcot.2020.12.030},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-09-01},

journal = {J Clin Orthop Trauma},

volume = {16},

pages = {99-105},

abstract = {A lumbar herniation disc appears as a major cause of lumbar pain and sciatica. The purpose of the present systematic review is to examine the effectiveness of such exercise programs on pain, disability, quality of life, strength and the assessed time required to return to work/normal activities after undergoing lumbar discectomy surgery. PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar were used for the selection of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The PEDro scale was chosen to assess the methodological quality of the included studies. Seven RCTS met the inclusion criteria. According to the evaluation of the PEDro scale, one was considered as « high quality», five as « moderate quality» and one as « low quality». The mean score of the studies was 5.14. The results showed that after such exercise there was an improvement in pain, disability, quality of life, muscle strength and in time required to return to work. The exercise programs have a positive impact on the reduction of pain, disability, time required to return to work/normal activities as well as an increase in quality of life and muscle strength in patients with lumbar discectomy surgery.},

keywords = {disability, discectomy, exercise, pain, quality of life, strength},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Tsokanos2021,

title = {The Efficacy of Manual Therapy in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review},

author = {A Tsokanos and E Livieratou and E Billis and M Tsekoura and P Tatsios and E Tsepis and K Fousekis},

doi = {https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina57070696},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-09-01},

journal = {Medicina},

volume = {57},

number = {7},

pages = {696},

abstract = {Background and objectives: 

Osteoarthritis (OA) is among the most common degenerative diseases that induce pain, stiffness and reduced functionality. Various physiotherapy techniques and methods have been used for the treatment of OA, including soft tissue techniques, therapeutic exercises, and manual techniques. The primary aim of this systemic review was to evaluate the short-and long-term efficacy of manual therapy (MT) in patients with knee OA in terms of decreasing pain and improving knee range of motion (ROM) and functionality. 

 

Materials and Methods: 

A computerised search on the PubMed, PEDro and CENTRAL databases was performed to identify controlled randomised clinical trials (RCTs) that focused on MT applications in patients with knee OA. The keywords used were ‘knee OA’, ‘knee arthritis’, ‘MT’, ‘mobilisation’, ‘ROM’ and ‘WOMAC’. Results: Six RCTs and randomised crossover studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final analysis. The available studies indicated that MT can induce a short-term reduction in pain and an increase in knee ROM and functionality in patients with knee OA. 

 

Conclusions: 

MT techniques can contribute positively to the treatment of patients with knee OA by reducing pain and increasing functionality. Further research is needed to strengthen these findings by comparing the efficacy of MT with those of other therapeutic techniques and methods, both in the short and long terms.},

keywords = {knee osteoarthritis, manual therapy, Mulligan technique},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Tsekoura2021b,

title = {Prescription of exercise for older adults recommendations for clinical practice},

author = {M Tsekoura and S Stasi and J Gliatis and V Sakellari},

url = {https://www.mednet.gr/archives/2021-1/pdf/12.pdf},

issn = {11-05-3992},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-09-01},

journal = {Arch Hellenic Med},

volume = {38},

number = {1},

pages = {12-17},

abstract = {Regular exercise and general daily activity provide substantial health benefits, improve quality of life and increase functionality in older adults. Elderly people often do not benefit fully from exercise prescription, however, because they receive vague or inappropriate instructions. This paper reviews the components of exercise prescription and the approaches to developing appropriate exercise prescription for older persons, which should be multi-component, including aerobic, muscle strengthening, balance and flexibility training. The elderly should be encouraged to participate in therapeutic exercise programs as primary or adjunctive therapy in the treatment of various chronic diseases associated with aging.},

keywords = {clinical practice, exercise, older adults, prescription},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Tsekoura2021,

title = {Methodology of a home-based motor control exercise and ergonomic intervention programme for community-dwelling older people: The McHeELP study},

author = {M Tsekoura and S Stasi and J Gliatis and V Sakellari},

doi = {doi:10.22540/JFSF-06-153},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-09-01},

journal = {J Frailty Sarcopenia Falls},

volume = {15},

abstract = {The aim of this research (Motor control Home ergonomics Elderlies' Prevention of falls; McHeELP study) was to develop a novel intervention combining motor control home-based exercises and a home ergonomic safety-improvement strategy in order to reduce falls in frail ambulatory older adults. A randomized controlled trial of a novel intervention is proposed including motor control exercises and home ergonomic assessment and modification in older adults who have at least one fall experience. Participants are randomized to control or intervention group in a 1:1 ratio. Participants will be assessed three times: at baseline, at 3rd month (end of intervention period) and again at 6th month (follow-up measurement). The primary outcome is of the effect on functional mobility using the Timed Up and Go test. Secondary outcomes include assessments of functionality, fear of falling and quality of life. This will be the first study to develop an exercise intervention approach that combines home-based motor control exercise intervention with home assessment and modification. This study is expected to explore a low-cost, easy-to-popularize, and effective exercise intervention approach for improving functional mobility and prevent falls among older adults.},

keywords = {exercise, falls, home modification, lower extremities, motor control},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Tatsios2021,

title = {The effectiveness of manual therapy on musculoskeletal and respiratory parameters in patients with chronic low back pain: A systematic review},

author = {P Tatsios and G A Koumantakis and P Karakasidou and A Philippou},

doi = {doi: 10.1615/CritRevPhysRehabilMed.2021038977},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-09-01},

journal = {Crit Rev Phys Rehabil Med},

volume = {33},

number = {2},

pages = {71-101},

abstract = {Patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP) exhibit respiratory dysfunction. Dysfunction in motor control of trunk muscles (diaphragm included) negatively affects the mechanics and biochemistry of breathing. The aim of this systematic review was to analyze evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effect of manual therapy on musculoskeletal and respiratory parameters in patients with CLBP. Systematic search and selection of RCTs was performed using specific keywords in three scientific databases (Medline, Scopus, and the Physiotherapy Evidence Database, or PEDro) from inception to March 2021. Relevant studies published in English were extracted, evaluated, and independently rated for methodological quality by two assessors using the PEDro scale. Data extraction and methodological ratings were inspected by a third assessor. Out of 943 initially collected studies, 922 were excluded (did not meet inclusion criteria or were duplicates). Twenty-one clinical trials were finally included, though they were characterized by moderate methodological quality (PEDro scale). Meta-analysis was not performed due to differences in techniques utilized (targeting spinal joints or trunk or respiratory muscles) and the outcomes were assessed across studies. Overall, there was evidence, of moderate methodological quality, that manual therapy on the low back joints or trunk stabilization exercises, diaphragmatic release techniques, and respiratory exercises significantly improve musculoskeletal as well as respiratory parameters in patients with CLBP. More and higher-quality RCTs are required, especially those that will utilize respiratory reeducation and exercise of the respiratory muscles as therapeutic interventions contributing to the holistic management of patients with CLBP.},

keywords = {breathing education, breathing exercises, chronic low back pain, manual therapy, randomized controlled trials, respiratory dysfunction},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{S.Stasi2021,

title = {Motor Control and Ergonomic Intervention Home-Based Program: A Pilot Trial Performed in the Framework of the Motor Control Home Ergonomics Elderlies' Prevention of Falls (McHeELP) Project},

author = {S.Stasi and M Tsekoura and J Gliatis and V Sakellari},

doi = {doi: 10.7759/cureus.14336},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-09-01},

journal = {Cureus},

volume = {13},

number = {4},

pages = {e14336},

abstract = {Objectives Falls are a serious problem that can reduce living autonomy and health-related quality of life of older adults. A decrease in the muscular strength of the lower limbs and the deterioration of balance or motor performance deficits may lead to falls. "Motor Control Home Ergonomics Elderlies' Prevention of Falls" (McHeELP) is a novel motor control exercise program combined with ergonomic arrangements of the home environment. This pilot trial is conducted in order to examine the feasibility and acceptability of the McHeELP program, the selection of the most appropriate outcome measures, and the exact sample size calculation that should be used for the randomized controlled trial (RCT) with Clinical Trial Identifier: ISRCTN15936467. Patients and methods Twenty older adults (aged ≥65 years) who had experienced at least one fall-incident in the past 12 months have participated in the trial; they were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to the McHeELP group (McHeELP-G) and the Control group (CG). The McHeELP-G received a personalized therapeutic motor control and learning exercise program performed three times per week for 12 weeks. Regarding McHeELP - home modification, a booklet that contained basic advice and tips on the modification for their inside and outside home environment was provided to the participants. Objective and self-reported outcome measures, collected at baseline and post-intervention (end of the third month), included functional, fear of falling, and quality of life measurements. Results The McHeELP intervention was very feasible and acceptable to the participants, and the adherence was excellent (100%). The majority of outcome measures seemed appropriate and significant differences were also revealed between the two groups. Specifically, post-intervention statistically significant improvement was found in the 4 meters walking test, Timed Up and Go test, Sit to Stand test, Tandem Stance test, Functional Reach test, Foot tapping test, EuroQoL-5D-5L - visual analog scale (VAS), Lower Extremity Functional Scale, Falls Self-Efficacy International Scale, and Home Falls and Accidents Screening Tool (HOMEFAST) questionnaire of McHeELP-G (all p-values ≤0.002). No statistically significant difference was observed in the mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort subscales of Euro QoL-5D-5L (all p-values >0.05), except the anxiety/depression subscale of McHeELP-G (p=0.008). Moreover, no statistically significant improvement was found regarding McHeELP participants' knee flexion/extension restriction and ankle dorsiflexion/plantar-flexion restrictions. Regarding CG, no statistically significant difference was found (p>0.05), except the Tandem Stance test (p=0.003) and HOMEFAST (p<0.001). Referring to the future McHeELP RCT, it was estimated that a sample size of 25 evaluable patients per group is required. Conclusions This pilot trial's findings suggest that it is feasible to deliver an RCT of the McHeLP program to this population. Exercise programs that are easy to administer need to be developed and implemented to reduce the burden of falls in older adults.},

keywords = {ergonomics, falls, home-based programme, lower limb, motor control, older adults, physiotherapy},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Patselas2021,

title = {EMG activity of the serratus anterior and trapezius muscle during elevation and push up exercises},

author = {T Patselas and S Karanasios and V Sakellari and I Fysekis and M I Patselas and G Gioftsos},

doi = {doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbmt.2021.02.002},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-09-01},

journal = {J Bodyw Mov Ther},

volume = {27},

pages = {247-255},

abstract = {Background: 

Elevation and push up (Pu) exercises are considered to be beneficial for the rehabilitation of shoulder complex pathology. Despite their clinical utility, there is a lack of evidence comparing scapulothoracic muscles recruitment during these exercises. 

 

Objective: 

To evaluate the EMG activity of upper trapezius (UT), Lower Trapezius (LT), Upper Serratus anterior (USa) and Lower Serratus anterior (LSa) muscles during a variety of elevation and Pu exercises. 

 

Methods: 

Thirteen healthy participants (non, athlete, male, mean ± standard deviation; age: 21.1 ± 1.8 years; height: 1.80 m ± 0.04; weight: 79 ± 12 kg) were assessed. EMG data was collected during Scaption, wall slide and elevation with external rotation (EleEr) with and without load. Pu classic, Pu plus (PuP) on stable/unstable surfaces and Pu with shoulder internal rotation were also assessed. 

 

Results: 

UT had a significant higher activity during ‘Scaption load’ (p < .05) and LT in ‘EleEr load’ and ‘Scaption load’ (p < .05). USa and LSa had a significant higher activity on ‘PuP unstable surface’ and ‘PuP internal rotation’ compared to elevation exercises (p < .05). Scaption had greater activity ratio compared to the other exercises on UT/LT (p < .05). Pu variations had lower results in UT/USa and UT/LSa ratios compared to shoulder elevation exercises (p < .05). 

 

Conclusions: 

Elevation exercises produce significant effects on upper and lower trapezius activation while Pu exercises on Sa muscles. Wall slide exercise notes the lowest activation in all muscles. A descending order of muscle activity during different variations of elevation and Pu exercises is provided in order to guide exercise selection in everyday clinical practice.},

keywords = {elevation exercises, EMG, push up exercises, serratus anterior, trapezius},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Krekoukias2021,

title = {Gait Kinetic and Kinematic Changes in Chronic Low Back Pain Patients and the Effect of Manual Therapy: A Randomized Controlled Trial},

author = {G Krekoukias and V Sakellari and E Anastasiadi and G Gioftsos and Z Dimitriadis and K Soultanis and I D Gelalis},

doi = {doi: 10.3390/jcm10163593},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-09-01},

journal = {J Clin Med},

volume = {10},

number = {16},

abstract = {Patients with chronic back pain as a result of degenerated disc disease, besides pain, also present with impaired gait. The purpose of the article was to evaluate kinetic and kinematic characteristics during gait analysis in patients with chronic low back pain as a result of degenerated disc disease, before and after the application of physiotherapy, including manual therapy techniques. Seventy-five patients suffering from chronic low back pain were randomly divided into 3 groups of 25 each. Each group received five sessions (one per week) of interventions with the first group receiving manual therapy treatment, the second a sham treatment and the third, classic physiotherapy (stretching exercises, TENS and massage). The effectiveness of each treatment was evaluated using an optoelectronic system for recording and analysis of gait (kinetic and kinematic data). Patients overall showed an impaired gait pattern with a difference in kinetic and kinematic data between the left and the right side. Following the application of the above-named interventions, only the group that received manual therapy showed a tendency towards symmetry between the right and left side. In patients suffering from chronic low back pain as a result of degenerated disc disease, the application of five manual therapy sessions seems to produce a tendency towards symmetry in gait.},

keywords = {chronic low back pain, gait, manual therapy, physiotherapy, spinal mobilization},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Paraskevopoulos2021,

title = {The intra-rater and inter-rater reliability of scapular asymmetry assessment in volleyball athletes with clinical evaluation methods},

author = {E Paraskevopoulos and G Plakoutsis and G Georgoudis and G Gioftsos and M Papandreou},

url = {https://www.researchgate.net/publication/350800046_Title_THE_INTRA-RATER_AND_INTER-RATER_RELIABILITY_OF_SCAPULAR_ASSYMETRY_ASSESSMENT_IN_VOLLEYBALL_ATHLETES_WITH_CLINICAL_EVALUATION_METHODS},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-09-01},

abstract = {Background: 

It has been suggested that Scapular Asymmetries (SA) can have a significant effect on shoulder function and in the development of shoulder pain. SA present with increased protraction and depression in the dominant side and can be seen in either symptomatic or asymptomatic athletes. These are much more prominent in unilateral overhead athletes. Several clinical evaluation methods of SA have been used in the past in order to detect SA. However, less is known about the intra-rater and inter-rater reliability of these methods in professional volleyball players. Purpose: The aim of this retrospective study was to establish the intra-rater reliability of five different methods for quantifying SA in asymptomatic professional volleyball players. 

 

Methods: Ten male asymptomatic professional volleyball players were recruited (Age 30.5±2.67 years, BMI 23.1±0.32). In regards to sample size, for an expected reliability of 92%, based on the findings of previous studies, and acceptable reliability of at least 60%, in order to represent substantial reliability, 9 athletes were required for 5% significance level and a power of 80% for two examiners or at two different time points. These five methods measured a series of anthropometric characteristics of the scapula including 1) Height asymmetries of the Scapulae (SH), 2) the difference in the distance between the scapulae from the spine (DS), 3) the difference in the Posterior Displacement of each Scapula from the thoracic cage with a modified caliper (SPD), as well as, 4, 5) the posterior displacement of both scapulae from the thoracic cage in a static (SPDR) and a dynamic position (SPD-PUE). A written informed consent, which was approved by the University, was obtained from all the athletes who participated in this study. All experimental procedures conformed to the Declaration of Helsinki. The research protocol was approved by the University of West Attica. 

 

Results: Reliability values for the first and the second method were excellent for the inter-rater (ICC 0.90-0.97; SEM 0.17-0.16) and the intra-rater (ICC 0.90-0.98; SEM 0.16-0.13) evaluation. For the third method, the inter-rater and the intra-rater values were good to excellent (ICC 0.84-0.92; SEM 0.23-0.13). The last two methods showed good to acceptable inter-rater (ICC 0.70-0.68; SEM 0.23-0.27) and intra-rater values (ICC 0.66-0.77; SEM 0.20 for both). The Bland and Altman analysis did not reveal any systematic bias in any method. 

 

Conclusions: The findings of the present study propose several reliable methods for evaluating SA of asymptomatic male professional volleyball players in clinical practice. The Bland and Altman plots constructed in the study, along with the SEM and the SDD calculations, allowed to conclude that the methods proposed should reliably measure male asymptomatic overhead athletes. Implications: It would be regarding the reliability of several evaluation methods in scapula asymmetry assessment as an important diagnostic tool in overhead athletes.},

note = {Paper presented at the World Physiotherapy Congress 2021 Online},

keywords = {clinical evaluation, reliability, scapula asymmetry, volley ball players},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Grigoriadis2021,

title = {Handgrip Force and Maximum Inspiratory and Expiratory Pressures in Critically Ill Patients With a Tracheostomy},

author = {K Grigoriadis and I Efstathiou and Z Dimitriadis and G Konstantopoulou and A Grigoriadou and G Vasileiadis and M Micha and I Tsagaris and A Armaganidis},

doi = {doi: 10.4037/ajcc2021248},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-09-01},

journal = {Am J Crit Care},

volume = {30},

number = {2},

pages = {e48-e53},

abstract = {Background: 

The association between peripheral striated muscle strength and respiratory muscle strength has been confirmed in a number of disorders. However, this association is unknown in intensive care unit patients with tracheostomies. 

 

Objective: 

To examine correlations between handgrip force, maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP), and maximum expiratory pressure (MEP) in intensive care unit patients with tracheostomies. 

 

Methods: 

Twenty patients (7 women, 13 men) with tracheostomies, in the intensive care unit longer than 11 days, in stable condition, with functional limbs, and with Glasgow Coma Scale scores of 15 were recruited. Both MIP and MEP were measured with a membrane manometer; handgrip force was measured with a hydraulic hand dynamometer. 

 

Results: Handgrip force was significantly correlated with MIP (r = 0.45},

keywords = {patient, physiotherapy, tracheostomy},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Karanasios2021,

title = {Diagnostic accuracy of examination tests for lateral elbow tendinopathy (LET) - A systematic review},

author = {S Karanasios and V Korakakis and M Moutzouri and E Drakonaki and K Koci and V Pantazopoulou and E Tsepis and G Gioftsos},

doi = {doi: 10.1016/j.jht.2021.02.002},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-09-01},

journal = {J Hand Ther},

abstract = {Background 

 

Reviews on the diagnostic performance of the examination tests for lateral elbow tendinopathy (LET) based on updated context-specific tools and guidelines are missing. 

Purpose 

 

To review the diagnostic accuracy of examination tests used in LET. 

Design 

 

Systematic review following PRISMA-DTA guidelines. 

Methods 

 

We searched MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, PEDro, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Library databases. The QUADAS-2 checklist was used to assess the methodological quality of the eligible studies. We included diagnostic studies reporting the accuracy of physical examination tests or imaging modalities used in patients with LET. 

Results 

 

Twenty-four studies with 1370 participants were identified reporting the diagnostic performance of Ultrasound Imaging (USI) (18 studies), physical examination tests (2 studies) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) (4 studies). Most studies (97%) were assessed with “unclear” or “high risk” of bias. Sonoelastography showed the highest sensitivity (75- 100%) and specificity (85- 96%). Grayscale with or without Doppler USI presented poor to excellent values (sensitivity: 53%-100%, specificity: 42%-90%). MRI performed better in the diagnosis of tendon thickening and enthesopathy (sensitivity and specificity: 81%-100%). The Cozen's test reported high sensitivity (91%) while a grip strength difference of 5%-10% between elbow flexion and extension showed high sensitivity (78%-83%) and specificity (80%-90%). 

Conclusions 

 

Cozen's test and grip strength measurement present high accuracy in the diagnosis of LET but are poorly investigated. USI and MRI provide variable diagnostic accuracy depending on the entities reported and should be recommended with caution when differential diagnosis is necessary. Substantial heterogeneity was found in inclusion criteria, operator/ examiner, mode of application, type of equipment and reference standards across the studies.},

keywords = {diagnosis, elbow, sensitivity, specificity, tennis},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Korakakis2021,

title = {Current perspectives and clinical practice of physiotherapists on assessment, rehabilitation, and return to sport criteria after anterior cruciate ligament injury and reconstruction. An online survey of 538 physiotherapists},

author = {V Korakakis and A Kotsifaki and A Korakaki and S Karanasios and R Whiteley},

doi = {doi: 10.1016/j.ptsp.2021.08.012},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-09-01},

journal = {Phys Ther Sport},

volume = {52},

pages = {103-114},

abstract = {Objectives: 

To evaluate the perspectives and clinical practice of physiotherapists regarding rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). 

 

Design: Online survey. 

 

Setting: Survey platform. 

 

Participants: Greek physiotherapists. 

 

Outcome measures: 

The survey consisted of 7 sections: participant demographics, importance of ACLR rehabilitation, clinical measurements, practice, criteria to progress rehabilitation, return to running and return to sport. 

 

Results: 

Significant variability in measures and criteria used for clinical decision-making were found including: limb symmetry in strength and function, knee range of motion and effusion, progression, and return to sport criteria. The majority of the practitioners (28.3%) extrapolate knee strength from hop capacity. Return to running ranged from 3 to 5 months post-operatively reflecting that this was tied to physical capacities, not time from surgery. 70.0% of the Greek physiotherapists would allow return to sport ≤9 months after ACLR. Agreement was found in using: physical measures, function, and dynamic stability in ACLR rehabilitation, but the mode and interpretation varied substantially. Less than 29.0% of the physiotherapists reported using patient-reported outcome measures in their decision-making. 

 

Conclusion: Current ACLR rehabilitation practices in Greece are largely not aligned with the contemporary scientific evidence and guidelines.},

keywords = {anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, physical therapy, rehabilitation, return to sport},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}