Ebobesem Margaret, D. Nsagha, Nicholas Tendongfor, Brenda Mbouamba Yankam, Claude Ngwayu Nkfusai, Serge Ngekeng, Che Joseph Ngwa, E. Y. Vubo
{"title":"Exploring the Experiences of Informal Caregivers of HIV Positive Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women on Existing HIV Services in Fako Division, Southwest Region, Cameroon: A Qualitative Study","authors":"Ebobesem Margaret, D. Nsagha, Nicholas Tendongfor, Brenda Mbouamba Yankam, Claude Ngwayu Nkfusai, Serge Ngekeng, Che Joseph Ngwa, E. Y. Vubo","doi":"10.47672/ejhs.2229","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.47672/ejhs.2229","url":null,"abstract":"Purpose: Despite global efforts to prevent mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), challenges persist, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Cameroon. This qualitative study explores the experiences of informal caregivers supporting HIV-positive pregnant and breastfeeding women in the PMTCT Option B+ program in Fako Division, South West Region, Cameroon. \u0000Materials and Methods: Employing a sequential qualitative research design, the study involved fifty-one informal caregivers in focus group discussions and in-depth interviews. Thematic and interpretive phenomenological analysis, facilitated by Atlas.ti software, was utilized to explore caregiver challenges, coping mechanisms, and their impact on Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) adherence and overall well-being. \u0000Findings: Caregivers face psychological, economic, and physical challenges, including emotional ambivalence, economic constraints, and fear of infection. The study highlights caregiver burnout and identifies coping mechanisms such as emotional control, integrating HIV/AIDS into daily life, spirituality, feelings of hope, and seeking support from family and society. Despite challenges, caregivers find reward in witnessing care recipients' progress. The research also reveals gender role shifts and the importance of open discussions about HIV/AIDS. \u0000Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Recognizing the crucial role of informal caregivers in PMTCT, addressing their well-being is essential. Training caregivers can enhance adherence, supporting UNAIDS goals, and alleviating health system burdens. This emphasizes the importance of caregiver involvement in achieving global HIV targets by 2030.","PeriodicalId":224837,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Health Sciences","volume":"47 32","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141799653","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Climate Change Health Impacts: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis","authors":"David Banahene","doi":"10.47672/ejhs.1860","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.47672/ejhs.1860","url":null,"abstract":"Purpose: This meta-analysis aims to thoroughly investigate the intricate connection between climate change and health outcomes in the United States. \u0000Materials and Methods: Employing systematic methods, the study integrates data from reputable sources to present a comprehensive summary of the diverse health effects associated with climate change. \u0000Findings: Following APA6 style guidelines, the article delves into the multifaceted impacts of climate change on health, encompassing temperature-related effects, extreme weather events, air quality, waterborne diseases, mental health implications, and the vulnerability of specific populations. \u0000Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Based on the findings, the study provides recommendations for policymakers and public health practitioners to address the health challenges posed by climate change.","PeriodicalId":224837,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Health Sciences","volume":"79 11","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-03-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140254628","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Transient Hyperthyroidism of Hyperemesis Gravidarum: A Case Report from Rural Kenya","authors":"V. Onyango, Collins P. Malalu, William C. Fryda","doi":"10.47672/ejhs.1803","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.47672/ejhs.1803","url":null,"abstract":"Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the transient hyperthyroidism of hyperemesis gravidarum: A case report from rural Kenya. \u0000Materials and Methods: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. \u0000Findings: Hyperthyroidism complicates 0.2-0.4% of pregnancies. It may be diagnosed in the setting of hyperemesis gravidarum and can be pathological or transient. Untreated pathological hyperthyroidism has adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. Transient hyperthyroidism of hyperemesis gravidarum (THHG) affects up to 60% of women with hyperemesis, is self-limiting, and needs no antithyroid drug treatment. A diagnosis of THHG (rather than overt pathological hyperthyroidism) should be made when hyperthyroidism occurs in the setting of hyperemesis gravidarum and in the absence of pre-pregnancy hyperthyroidism, clinical findings compatible with maternal hyperthyroidism, and a negative antithyroid autoimmune profile. THHG resolves by the end of the first trimester without adverse pregnancy outcomes. We present a case from a rural Kenyan hospital to highlight the clinical profile and management of THHG for the primary care physician. \u0000Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Assessment of thyroid functions is indicated in hyperemesis gravidarum, where there are clinical features of hyperthyroidism. THHG is a self-limiting benign condition that may inappropriately lead to unnecessary drug treatment for pathological hyperthyroidism in pregnancy. A diagnosis of THHG should be made when a laboratory picture of hyperthyroidism occurs in the setting of hyperemesis gravidarum in the absence of pre-pregnancy hyperthyroidism, compatible physical findings, and a negative antithyroid autoantibody profile.","PeriodicalId":224837,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Health Sciences","volume":"46 10","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-02-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140425491","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Maira Abdul Razzak, Mian Kamran Sharif, Tabana Naz, Muhammad Arham Rauf, Fareeha Shahid, Rameen Shahzad, Roma Saleem, Tahreem Aslam, Aqsa Inam
{"title":"Evaluating the Bioactive Compounds of Beetroot and Their Pharmacological Activities in Promoting Health","authors":"Maira Abdul Razzak, Mian Kamran Sharif, Tabana Naz, Muhammad Arham Rauf, Fareeha Shahid, Rameen Shahzad, Roma Saleem, Tahreem Aslam, Aqsa Inam","doi":"10.47672/ejhs.1802","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.47672/ejhs.1802","url":null,"abstract":"Purpose: Lifestyle modification and sedentary life have led to multiple comorbidities which necessitate exploitation of underutilized novel ingredients in daily life. This comprehensive review aimed at providing valuable insight into the diverse pharmacological activities of beetroot bioactive compounds and their health enhancing properties. Furthermore, this review explored emerging research by scientific community for utilization of beetroot in the development of novel functional food products. \u0000Materials and Methods: The scientific studies focusing on the biological activity and therapeutic potential of beetroot for health parameters were included in this study. Database search was made using google scholar, PubMed and research gate which generated a total of 200 papers. Out of which, only 63 met the inclusion criteria of this study. Inclusion criteria included literature focusing on beetroot’s bioavailability, plant pigments, bioactive compounds, health benefits, as well as studies describing food applications. This review includes studies between 2014 and 2023. \u0000Findings: The main findings suggested that a prominent bioactive compound and natural betalain pigment in beetroot, exhibits potential anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic and anti-depressive properties. The anti-oxidant activity of betalain is effective against oxidative stress and play a role in preventing and mitigating chronic diseases. Bioactive components including, nitrate content, betanin and betacyanin, potentially modulate blood pressure and promote cardiovascular health. Furthermore, beetroot derived polyphenols, carotenoids, vitamins and minerals contribute to bone health, immune function and overall well-being. Food product development based studies demonstrate an overall improvement in the nutritional and sensory profile. \u0000Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Further research on bioactive components of multiple varieties of beetroot is recommended to reassess the underlying mechanisms and optimal dosage for unlocking their potential for medicinal, nutraceuticals and dietary interventions. More research is needed by food industrialists and scientists to explore the potential of beetroot pigments as non-synthetic food additives particularly color enhancer in various food formulations. ","PeriodicalId":224837,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Health Sciences","volume":"15 4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-02-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140432304","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Socio-Cultural Factors Influencing Medical Circumcision of Males Performed Voluntarily Uptake in Turkana County","authors":"Ekidor Ateyo Lokorio, Isaac Mwanzo, Gordon Ogweno","doi":"10.47672/ejhs.1738","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.47672/ejhs.1738","url":null,"abstract":"Purpose: Kenya is amongst six high-burden nations in Africa grappling high HIV infections. Approximately 91.2% of Kenyan men have undergone circumcision. However, male circumcision is not traditionally practiced in Turkana community with male circumcision rates ranging from 5-10%. The study's sought to identify socio-cultural factors Influencing Medical Circumcision of Males Performed Voluntarily Uptake in Turkana County. \u0000Materials and Methods: Utilizing a researcher-administered survey, KII schedules, and a FGD guide, data was gathered. 434 males made up the sample size. An analytical cross-sectional methodology was used in the investigation. The data was analyzed with SPSS 22. Results showed that of 374 male participants in the study, 79.9% had undergone circumcision, 77.0% were aged 18-35 years, 94.1% were Christians, and 44.7% were unemployed while 54.8% were married. The overall mean scores of responses for socio-cultural factors, psychosocial factors, socio-economic factors, and information sources factors were 3.230 (neutral), 3.602 (positive), 2.894 (negative) and 3.48 (neutral), respectively. \u0000Findings: The study found that socio-cultural factors was significant predictors of embracing VMMC. Sociocultural factors were about 0.30 times more likely to increase uptake of VMMC [OR=0.301; 95% CI: 0.081-0.52, P=0.007]. \u0000Conclusion: The study recommends that policies addressing main VMMC uptake amongst men in Turkana County should incorporate public participation, traditional leaders and local administrators for societal acceptance. There is need for effective sensitization and advocacy for behavioral change, mobilization and ownership of the initiative by the community. Policies should advocate for local leadership training.","PeriodicalId":224837,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Health Sciences","volume":"51 9","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139533250","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Effectiveness of Cigarette Graphic Warnings in Informing Smokers about the Dangers of Tobacco","authors":"Otto Enyame, Genevieve Nkeigbeng","doi":"10.47672/ejhs.1720","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.47672/ejhs.1720","url":null,"abstract":"Purpose: Pictorial cigarette pack warnings are a promising solution for curbing the tobacco epidemic and are considered as one of the most direct, effective and prominent means of communicating with smokers. Over 8,300 Cameroonians are killed by smoking-caused diseases every year with 112 men and 47 women dying every week because of smoking. In a country were 2.3 billion cigarettes were sold in 2016, this study seeks to find out how effective cigarette warning labels are in influencing smokers’ intake of cigarette. We sought to assess the effectiveness of cigarette warning labels, to determine if smokers’ belief and trust the graphics on cigarette warning labels and if they are directly or indirectly influenced by cigarette warning labels. Methodology: This study adopted a qualitative research design in order to better understand and illuminate the Effectiveness of Cigarette Warning Labels to smokers. A purposive sample of eighteen (18) cigarette smokers were interviewed Findings: Our findings point to the fact that there is perceived ineffectiveness of cigarette warning labels, that cigarette smokers don’t believe the warning labels are real and there exist a limited influence of cigarette warning labels to smokers. The analysis of our data led to the emergence of three distinct themes: Perceived ineffectiveness of warning labels; Lack of belief in warning labels; Limited influence of cigarette warning labels to smokers. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: This study was informed by the Trans theoretical Model (TTM) which focuses on the decision-making of smokers and is a model of intentional change. It was observed that smokers may not change their habits quickly and decisively only because of cigarette graphic warnings. Other communication channels especially the media may reinforce cigarette graphic warnings to persuade smokers to quit smoking. This study has implications for programs aimed at reducing the rate of cigarette smoking. Based on the findings, the warning labels appear not be very effective in persuading smokers to quit the deadly practice of smoking.","PeriodicalId":224837,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Health Sciences","volume":" 42","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-12-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139144070","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Syed Muhammad Kashif Kazmi, Umm-e- Rabab, Tasneem Dawood, Syeda Muntaha Arif, Syeda Mahnoor Azam, Syed Muhammad Nasir Abbas Bokhari, Najiya Amanat Khan, Israr Ahmed, Alizeh Zaidi
{"title":"Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Associated with Chronic Kidney Disease in Pakistan","authors":"Syed Muhammad Kashif Kazmi, Umm-e- Rabab, Tasneem Dawood, Syeda Muntaha Arif, Syeda Mahnoor Azam, Syed Muhammad Nasir Abbas Bokhari, Najiya Amanat Khan, Israr Ahmed, Alizeh Zaidi","doi":"10.47672/ejhs.1696","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.47672/ejhs.1696","url":null,"abstract":"Purpose: Chronic kidney disease has been recognized as a leading public health problem worldwide. The global estimated prevalence of CKD is 13.4%, whereas in Pakistan it is 21.2%. It is a growing health threat therefore understanding knowledge, attitudes, and practices associated with kidney diseases are vital for forming optimal policy and public health responses in the region. \u0000Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted nationwide. A total of 922 participants were enrolled in this study using convenience sampling technique. Data were obtained using a structured questionnaire in both English and Urdu languages. The questionnaire was designed in four sections, collecting information for demographic data, knowledge assessment, attitudes and practices related to kidney diseases. Descriptive statistics were used to describe demographic characteristics, mean and standard deviation were used for continuous variables. Scores more than 50 percent were classified as satisfactory knowledge about CKD. \u0000FINDINGS: Based on the findings of this study majority of the participants (87%) had adequate knowledge regarding the risk factors and common causes of kidney diseases like hypertension, diabetes and excessive use of pain killers. However, knowledge about the proper diagnosis of Kidney diseases was lacking and more than half of the participants (58%) were of the opinion that urine’s color, smell and quality is enough to detect kidney disease and lab test for detection is not exclusively needed for the diagnosis. \u0000The thought of developing kidney disease was a concern for most of the participants, and even the participants in the well-earned subgroup of working professionals were concerned about the cost of treating kidney disease. A larger proportion of participants (41%) were worried about revealing their diagnosis of kidney disease within the community and up to 89.2% of the participants considered kidney diseases diagnosis as a risk factor for losing their jobs. Regarding the practices, 95.7 % of the participants were willing to visit medical doctor if they were diagnosed with kidney disease and were prepared to prefer medical treatment over Hakeem, homeopathy and home remedies. Overall, participants who are males, middle aged, postgraduate and those with no known co-morbidities and a professional job showed most adequate knowledge related to CKD \u0000Implications to Theory Practice and Policy: Our study draws upon the Health Belief Model, a health behavior theory, and its validation is evident in the results obtained. The findings highlight a discernible disparity in chronic kidney disease (CKD) knowledge across diverse demographic groups. Notably, a substantial level of ignorance was identified among participants concerning the diagnosis of kidney diseases. Addressing this knowledge gap is imperative for enhancing the overall health of our general population.","PeriodicalId":224837,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Health Sciences","volume":" 23","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-12-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"138960706","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Serum Cortisol and Glucose Indices Following Rumenotomy in West African Dwarf Goats Premedicated with Xylazine or Diazepam and Inducted with Propofol","authors":"Nev Terfa.O, Amine A.A, Kisani A.I, Fadason S.T","doi":"10.47672/ejhs.1649","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.47672/ejhs.1649","url":null,"abstract":"Purpose: Anaesthesia was induced in West African Dwarf (WAD) goats using Propofol and a combination of different sedatives, propofol (P), xylazine (X), Propofol (P), and Diazepam (D) and control Propofol (P) and the effects of rumenotomy on cortisol and glucose of West African dwarf goats were determined.
 Methodology: Twelve (WAD) goats were randomly assigned to three treatment groups tagged A, B, and C. Rumenotomy was carried out on these animals, premedicated with Xylazine or Diazepam and anaesthetized with Propofol, and data was presented in charts and as (Mean ± SEM).
 Findings: Cortisol concentration showed no statistical (P > 0.05) difference in group C pre-surgery (14.55 ± 1.34 mg/dL) and up to 96 hours post-rumenotomy (13.45 ± 0.68 mg/dL). In groups A and B, cortisol concentration significantly (P < 0.05) increased from pre-surgical value (14.40 ± 1.27; 13.68 ± 1.22 mg/dL) reaching a peak at 24 hours post-rumenotomy (68.85 ± 3.41; 46.63 ± 5.86mg/dL) followed by a significant (P < 0.05) decrease at 96 hours post-rumenotomy (33.46 ± 3.58; 13.80 ± 2.65 mg/dL), but these were statistically (P < 0.05) higher in group A compared to group B.
 The glucose concentration was statistically (P < 0.05) increased in group A (72.50 ± 3.30; 75.25 ± 5.02 g/dL) compared to groups B (65.50 ± 4.50; 65.50 ± 1.71 g/dL) and C (55.50 ± 2.87; 62.25 ± 8.84 g/dL) at intra-surgery and immediate post-surgery. From 24 and up to 96 hours post-rumenotomy, no statistical difference existed for the glucose concentration in all groups of goats.
 Conclusion: The Cortisol and glucose indices increased across the groups which showed that the animals experienced stress during the procedure.
 Recommendations: The Cortisol and Glucose indices following rumenotomy showed that the Diazepam-Propofol combination (group B) is preferred because it caused less stress and gave a good plane of anaesthesia in West African Dwarf goats.","PeriodicalId":224837,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Health Sciences","volume":"6 2","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-11-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"136226910","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Prevalence of De-Quervain’s Tenosynovitis in Female Tailors in District Wazirabad","authors":"Shiza Minahel, Aqdas Shahzad, Sundus Shehza, Syeda Amna Iqbal, Arslan Saeed, Amna Pervaiz, Farwa Khaliq, Abdul Hanan","doi":"10.47672/ejhs.1620","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.47672/ejhs.1620","url":null,"abstract":"Purpose: De Quervain's tenosynovitis affects the thumb abductors close to the radiostyloid process, causes a painful wrist complaint. When performing particular jobs incorrectly, the wrist and thumb might lead to De Quervain's Tenosynovitis. It is associated with work that necessitates repetitive wrist and thumb motion. Pain, numbness, tingling, burning, stiffness, and exhaustion are a few of the warning signs and symptoms. Complaints include a loss of normal sensation, a restriction in range of motion, and a decline in grip strength. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of De-Quervain's Tenosynovitis in female tailors in district Wazirabad.
 Methodology: Amongst female tailors, a cross-sectional survey was done. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 289 participants were chosen through convenient sampling technique. The process was described to the study participants. The degree of the pain was evaluated using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), and an assessment of the illness was made using the Finkelstein test. Both hands were put to use for the test. Pain over the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis tendons at the wrist is a sign of a positive diagnosis. The SPSS program was used to examine the data. Data was presented in for of tables and charts.
 Findings: De-Quervain's Tenosynovitis was present in 43% of the population overall. When the results of the right and left hands were compared, it was discovered that 33% females had right hand had De Quervain's tenosynovitis and 10% had it in both hands. Sixty of the respondents reported experiencing mild pain, 41 women reported moderate pain, and 23 reported severe pain. This study concluded that the prevalence of De-Quervain’s Tenosynovitis in female tailors is low.
 Recommendations: The study was grounded in the Cumulative Stress Theory, emphasizing repetitive motion's impact on occupational health. Tailors should receive training on ergonomics, use ergonomic tools, and undergo regular wrist health check-ups. Policy makers must set occupational health standards for tailors, ensuring ergonomic tool usage, and mandate periodic health audits in tailoring establishments","PeriodicalId":224837,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Health Sciences","volume":"42 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-10-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"135512670","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Muhammad Kamran, Abdul Mateen, Tamkeen Tamkeen, Syeda Amna Iqbal, Kaiynat Shafique, Dr. Hanan Azfar, Qasim Raza
{"title":"Efficacy of Transverse Friction Massage versus Dry Cupping on Flexor Digitorum Brevis and Gastrocsoleus in Patients with Planter fasciitis","authors":"Muhammad Kamran, Abdul Mateen, Tamkeen Tamkeen, Syeda Amna Iqbal, Kaiynat Shafique, Dr. Hanan Azfar, Qasim Raza","doi":"10.47672/ejhs.1617","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.47672/ejhs.1617","url":null,"abstract":"Purpose: Plantar fasciitis is a musculo-skeletal ailment prevalent in people of diverse ages and levels of physical activity. This condition causes pain in the medial side of heel, which is exacerbated by weight-bearing activities as well as in rest or non-weight bearing. The objective of the study was to compare the effects on transverse friction massage and dry cupping on pain, disability and activity limitations in patients with planter fasciitis.
 Methodology: It was a quasi-experimental study with sample size of 32 and convenient sampling was used to recruit patients in study. Inclusion criteria of study were females and males of age 21 to 35 years, chronic pain in foot for more than 4 months and had positive windlass test. Study duration was 6 months. Out of 32 patients 16 were enrolled in group-A (baseline therapy and Transverse Friction Massage) and remaining 16 were enrolled in group-B (baseline therapy and Dry Cupping). Intensity of pain was assessed by NPRS before and after the treatment of 4 week and functional limitations was measure by Foot Function Index (FFI). Data was analyzed by software SPSS 24.0.
 Findings: Out of 32 participants 37.5% were men and 62.5% were women. Results demonstrated that median of NPRS in group A before treatment was 6.50 and after treatment it was 3.00. Median of NPRS in group B before treatment was 6.00 and after treatment it was 2.50. Pre-treatment mean of FFI in group A was 64.18±7.40 which reduced to 21.12±9.26 after the treatment of 4 weeks. Pre-treatment mean of FFI in group b was 63.18±7.70 and after treatment it was 23.12±8.24. A statistical significant difference was found in pre and post treatments of both groups p≤0.05). Between group analysis of A and B showed no statistical significant difference (p>0.05). Transverse friction massage and dry cupping showed equal effects in reducing disability, activity limitations and pain in the patients of planter fasciitis.
 Recommendations: Transverse Friction Massage and Dry Cupping demonstrate equivalent therapeutic benefits for plantar fasciitis patients. Clinicians are advised to consider both interventions, factoring in patient comfort and logistical constraints. It's imperative for policymakers to integrate these findings into clinical guidelines, while also promoting further research to elucidate the specific therapeutic mechanisms involved.","PeriodicalId":224837,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Health Sciences","volume":"4 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-10-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"135994883","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}