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Biomedical subjects

A R Mandel

Publications and source records attributed to A R Mandel.

5 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed1994

A client-computer interface for questionnaire data.

Our purpose was to assess efficiency and patient acceptance of a simple, inexpensive method of direct client-computer interface. A computerized version of the Sickness Impact Profile (SIP) was developed with the standard keyboard replaced by a numeric keypad. Forty-eight volunteer clients of an occupational rehabilitation center completed both the paper format and the computer format in randomized order, then were asked to compare the two methods in four areas. The majority of subjects rated the computer as easier to use and as the preferred method. Most subjects rated the computer and paper formats as equivalent in comfort and understanding. A summary score established that significantly more individuals preferred the computer format over the paper format (p = .02). Efficiency was determined by the mean time to score the test and produce a report (computer 39s, paper 309s). The correlation coefficients for the physical, psychosocial, and overall scores were very acceptable being greater than 0.90. These data indicate that a simple client-computer interface for the SIP is preferred by clients and is more efficient compared to the paper and pencil format.

Adult↗
PubMed1990

Electromyographic versus rhythmic positional biofeedback in computerized gait retraining with stroke patients.

This research provides a preliminary investigation of the relative efficacy of electromyographic (EMG) versus a novel biofeedback (BFB) approach to improve ankle control and functional gait in stroke patients. A computerized system was designed to provide audiovisual feedback of either muscle activity or ankle position during dorsiflexion and plantar flexion. The novel approach also included rhythmic pacing to emphasize the rapid timing of ankle motion necessary to switch from stance to swing during walking. Thirty-seven subjects were randomly assigned to one of the following groups: (1) no-treatment control, (2) EMG BFB, and (3) rhythmic positional BFB. Blind evaluations of ankle performance, gait, and perceived exertion were performed at regular intervals. Analyses of covariance revealed that subjects receiving rhythmic positional BFB significantly increased their walking speeds relative to other groups at posttest (p = .02) and at three-month follow-up (p = .035), without any increase in subjectively reported energy cost. The ability of positional BFB to emphasize the timing events during walking provided optimistic results for carry-over into gait functioning. The degree of sensorimotor recovery and time since onset of stroke were considered important factors in determining outcomes.

Adult↗
PubMed1986

Stress management in rehabilitation.

Chronic disability, especially of an acquired nature, is a stressor which requires significant adjustment and adaptation. This ongoing demand for change represents an additional source of stress for disabled as as compared with nondisabled individuals. In response to this need, a stress management program was established for groups of outpatients at an adult rehabilitation center. The program consists of eight 2-hour sessions and is delivered within a psychoeducational context. The present study evaluates the efficacy of the program, based upon a series of six groups. A total of 40 participants, comprised primarily of patients with chronic pain, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and multiple sclerosis, were assessed on psychometric and psychophysiologic measures both before and after the program. Results indicated a significant decrease at posttest in state anxiety, as well as a significant decrease on a measure of somatization, suggesting less preoccupation with physical symptoms following completion of the training. These findings suggest that rehabilitation patients can profit from self-control techniques taught in a stress management program. Since anxiety can negatively influence the course of many disabilities, the benefits accrued from stress management skills may have generalized effects.

Adult↗
PubMed1980

Joint position biofeedback facilitation of physical therapy in gait training.

This paper discusses and reviews the use of biofeedback techniques in various gait training applications, focusing particularly on the use of joint position biofeedback. The potential benefits of this approach are illustrated in a controlled case study using applied behavior analysis methodology. A standardized physical therapy regimen was compared with an identical treatment phase which included the addition of joint position feedback. Results suggest that biofeedback techniques are useful as an adjunct to physical therapy with stroke patients.

Biofeedback, Psychology↗