Rwanda journal of medicine and health sciences最新文献

{"title":"Satisfaction with Prosthesis and Walking Ability among Trans-Tibial Prosthesis Users from Two Selected Rehabilitation Hospitals in Rwanda.","authors":"Pasteur Butoya, Jean de Dieu Rukundo, Jackline Mupenzi Gatsinzi, Dumisani James Ngulube, Joanitah Kemigisha, Diane Izere, Innocent Mbonyinshuti, Nuhu Assuman","doi":"10.4314/rjmhs.v8i1.6","DOIUrl":"10.4314/rjmhs.v8i1.6","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Satisfaction with the prosthesis is the key element to using the prosthesis for better walking and performing daily activities among transtibial prosthesis users. Different factors affect satisfaction and walking ability.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>To evaluate satisfaction and assess walking ability among transtibial prosthesis users from two rehabilitation hospitals in Rwanda.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted on 45 transtibial prosthesis users who received their prostheses from the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali and Gatagara Orthopedics and Rehabilitation Hospital, Nyanza. The research was done from February 1, 2024, to April 30, 2024. The Trinity Amputation and Prosthesis Experience-Revised (TAPES-R) was utilized to evaluate satisfaction whereas the Timed Up and Go (TUG) and the 2 minutes' walk test (2MWT) were used for walking ability assessment.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Out of 45 participants, 71.1% (n=32) were males and the remaining were females. On satisfaction with prosthesis, 62.2% were satisfied while 37.8% were unsatisfied. The satisfaction was statistically significantly associated with shape (p≤0.001), appearance (p≤0.003), weight (p≤0.001), usefulness (p≤0.027), reliability (p≤0.035), fit (p≤0.001), and comfort (p≤0.038) of their prosthesis, their health status (p≤0.011) and physical status (p≤0.001). For walking ability, 60% of the participants demonstrated moderate walking ability.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Some transtibial prosthesis users were unsatisfied with their prosthesis. Moderate walking ability was observed generally. More rehabilitation including gait training, physiotherapy, early prosthetic fitting, rehabilitation team follow-ups and use of advanced prosthetic technology are recommended.</p>","PeriodicalId":520910,"journal":{"name":"Rwanda journal of medicine and health sciences","volume":"8 1","pages":"75-88"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12188255/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144510628","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Time to Death and Its Predictors among Children with Bacterial Meningitis in Southwest Ethiopia, 2022. A Retrospective follow-up study.","authors":"Asaye Worku Agegn, Girum Sebsbie Teshome, Tewodros Tesfaye Kebede","doi":"10.4314/rjmhs.v8i1.5","DOIUrl":"10.4314/rjmhs.v8i1.5","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Bacterial Meningitis (BM) is an infectious disease characterized by infection and inflammation of the meninges covering the brain and spinal cord. Globally, it is a major cause of morbidity and mortality, affecting 2.81 million children each year.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>The aim of the study was to assess the time to death and its predictors among children with bacterial meningitis in Southwest, Ethiopia.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Institutional-based retrospective follow-up study design was conducted among 372 paediatric patients with bacterial meningitis. Systematic random sampling was used to select eligible medical records from February 15 to March 15, 2022. Kaplan-Meier survival curve and log-rank were computed to estimate and compare failure time. Bivariate and multivariable Cox-regression models were fitted to identify predictors of time to death. A hazard ratio (HR) and adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) with a p-value < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.</p><p><strong>Result: </strong>The overall median time of death was 16 (95% CI, 11.4-17.5) days. Impaired consciousness (AHR=3.88; 95%CI 1.9-7.9), seizure (AHR=2.2; 95%CI 1.06-4.45), and steroid drug use (AHR=4.8; 95%CI 2.03-11.3) were predictors significantly associated with time to death.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The proportion of deaths was high compared to those of the previous studies. Impaired consciousness, seizure and use of steroid were associated with time to death.</p>","PeriodicalId":520910,"journal":{"name":"Rwanda journal of medicine and health sciences","volume":"8 1","pages":"61-74"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12188262/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144510629","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Lost Life at an Early Age: Life-threatening Consequences Faced by Children of Female Sex Workers in Rwanda.","authors":"Pacifique Mukangabire, Madeleine Mukeshimana, Liberatha Rumagihwa, Noel Korukire","doi":"10.4314/rjmhs.v8i1.10","DOIUrl":"10.4314/rjmhs.v8i1.10","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Various studies have focused on female sex workers aiming to reduce the risk of HIV infection and other sexually transmitted diseases and educate them on behaviour change. However, limited research has been on how mothers' profession affects their children. To address this gap, this study aimed to explore the life-threatening consequences faced by children of female sex workers in Rwanda and provide recommendations for supporting these vulnerable individuals.</p><p><strong>Methodology: </strong>This cross-sectional study used a qualitative approach with a phenomenological design. We interviewed 40 children born to sex workers and 19 mothers who are sex workers from 2 provinces and City of Kigali. We used an interview guide to conduct individual in-depth interviews.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The interviewed children reported most five problems encountered by children born to female sex workers in Rwanda including (1) stigma and rejection (2) humiliation and shame (3) Being forced to have early sex by their mother's clients and or forced/sold by mothers (4) poverty and hunger (5) early sex, pregnancy, and birth. The five problems most reported by mothers as being faced by children born to female sex workers are the same as those reported by the children.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>This study found that the children born to female sex workers in Rwanda face enormous life challenges/problems that put their health at risk and their future in jeopardy. We recommend that government and non-government organizations that have the mandate of child protection take appropriate measures to safeguards these vulnerable children.</p>","PeriodicalId":520910,"journal":{"name":"Rwanda journal of medicine and health sciences","volume":"8 1","pages":"125-138"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12188256/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144510626","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Association between Identity Dimensions and History Sexual Abuse among Rwandan Adolescents: A Case-Control Study.","authors":"Milele Sano Sana, Japhet Niyonsenga, Felix Niyonkuru, Emmanuella Mahoro, Eugenie Uwimana, Liliane Uwingeneye, Jean Mutabaruka, Sebatukura Simeon Gitimbwa, Kanyamanza Claudine Uwera","doi":"10.4314/rjmhs.v7i3.1","DOIUrl":"10.4314/rjmhs.v7i3.1","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Adolescent sexual abuse can profoundly impact psychological development, including identity formation, yet there is limited research in African contexts. This study aimed to explore how different levels of identity dimensions (low, moderate, high) are associated with the likelihood of reporting a history of sexual abuse.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A case-control study design was conducted with 746 girls aged 10-19 years, evenly divided between sexually abused (case group) and non-sexually abused adolescents (control group). Cases were selected from Isange One-Stop Centres, and controls were recruited from secondary schools in Rwanda. Data on socio-demographics and identity dimensions were collected. Group differences were analysed using Chi-Square test; and logistic regression was employed to determine independent association's predictor variables.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>No significant group differences were observed in socio-demographic variables (p>0.05). Teen motherhoods was reported exclusively in the case group (22.9%), with 1.9% of the case group pregnant and 5.4% reporting a history of abortion. Adolescents with a history of sexual abuse were more likely to score high on identity diffusion (AOR =7.55, 95% CI: 5.11-13.92), foreclosure (AOR = 4.81, 95% CI: 2.87-7.95), and moratorium (AOR=2.21, 95%CI: 1.30-3.93). They were also more likely to report moderate or high levels of exploration in depth, commitment making, and identification with commitment.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Sexual abuse is significantly associated with disruptions in identity development, including heightened diffusion, foreclosure, and altered exploration processes. Adolescents with a history of sexual abuse exhibit a premature identity characterized by commitment without sufficient exploration. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to support identity development and address the psychological impacts of trauma in adolescents.</p>","PeriodicalId":520910,"journal":{"name":"Rwanda journal of medicine and health sciences","volume":"7 3","pages":"392-401"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-11-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12110482/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144500287","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Prevalence and Factors Associated With Cesarean Section Delivery among Pregnant Women Attending Rwamagana Level Two Teaching Hospital, Rwanda.","authors":"Jean Bosco Uwingabire, Mojeed Akorede Gbadamosi, Monica Mochama, Theogene Kubahoniyesu","doi":"10.4314/rjmhs.v7i3.5","DOIUrl":"10.4314/rjmhs.v7i3.5","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Cesarean section (CS) is an essential, life-saving procedure when clinically justified. However, exceeding the World Health Organization's recommended prevalence (10-15%) may lead to adverse outcomes. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of CS at Rwamagana Hospital and to assess the associated factors.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This cross-sectional study was conducted among 426 postpartum women at Rwamagana Hospital. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression were employed. Statistical significance was set at a 5% level.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The results showed a 38% prevalence of CS. Women younger than 25 years were 9.51 times more likely to undergo CS compared to those aged 36-45 years (AO:9.51, 95% CI: 3.37-26.83, p < 0.001), Fetal malposition (AOR:106.8, 95% CI: 29.89-382.25, p < 0.001), experiencing no labour (AOR: 4.64, 95%CI: 1.71 - 12.63, p = 0.003), and first-time mothers (Parity=1) (AOR: 19.65, 95%CI: 8.91-43.33, p<0.001) were positively associated with CS. However, Previous vaginal birth reduced the odds of CS by 89% (AOR:0.11, 95% CI: 0.06-0.21, p < 0.001).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The prevalence of CS at Rwamagana Hospital exceeds the WHO recommendation. There is a need for enhanced community education to support safe vaginal deliveries.</p>","PeriodicalId":520910,"journal":{"name":"Rwanda journal of medicine and health sciences","volume":"7 3","pages":"435-444"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-11-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12110475/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144500330","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome and Its Determinants in Pregnant Women in Auchi, Edo State, Nigeria.","authors":"Kierian Ikechukwu Uzochukwu, Anthony Moses Ugbenyen, Olulope Olufemi Ajayi","doi":"10.4314/rjmhs.v7i3.9","DOIUrl":"10.4314/rjmhs.v7i3.9","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>There are limited epidemiological data on metabolic syndrome (MetS) during gestation in many developing nations. Available information on MetS prevalence in pregnancy is of clinical importance as it could aid in identifying pregnant women at risk of adverse perinatal outcomes. This study was designed to determine the prevalence of MetS, and its associated risk factors in pregnant women in Auchi, Edo Stage, Nigeria.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This hospital-based cross-sectional study involved 223 pregnant women aged 17-45 years recruited from selected hospitals in Auchi and its environs. Information on socio-demography and nutritional habits were obtained using a self-administered questionnaire. Anthropometric indices were determined using appropriate methods for height, weight and BMI. Blood glucose, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol were determined from the serum of the study participants using enzymatic assay. The prevalence of MetS was determined using the HNLBI/AHA and NECP ATP III definitions, modified for pregnant women.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The findings revealed the following prevalences: MetS 10.8%, low HDL 35.7%, obesity 14.4%, high blood pressure 4.5%, hyperglycaemia 21.6% and hypertriglyceridemia 11.8%. There was no significant association between social-demographic and life style parameters with MetS.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The findings emphasize the importance of vigilant monitoring of pregnant women to reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome.</p>","PeriodicalId":520910,"journal":{"name":"Rwanda journal of medicine and health sciences","volume":"7 3","pages":"485-494"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-11-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12110480/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144500331","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"The Development and Validation of an Attitude Scale for Abortion in Turkey.","authors":"Yusuf Karaşin, Yalçın Karagöz","doi":"10.4314/rjmhs.v7i3.3","DOIUrl":"10.4314/rjmhs.v7i3.3","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Abortion is a complex phenomenon studied not only from a health perspective, but also from a legal and social dimensions. Attitudes towards abortion have been varied significantly across different cultures and historical periods. In Turkey, where abortion is legal under specific conditions and timeframes, understanding these attitudes through the development of a standardized measurement tool can contribute meaningfully to the field.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>This study aims to develop a reliable and valid attitude scale to measure perspectives towards abortion in a Turkish sample.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>The study included 303 women aged 18-49 years residing in the Esenyurt district of Istanbul. The scale development process followed a rigorous methodology, including creating a draft scale, obtaining expert input, conducting a pilot application, refining the draft scale, collecting data from the sample group, and performing factor analyses.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>A three-factor structure consisting of 23 items was identified (x2/df: 2.787, Goodness of Fit Index(GFI): 0.853, Incremental Fit Index(IFI):0.913, Comparative Fıt Index(CFI):0.912, Root Mean Square Error of Approximation(RMSEA): 0.077, Standardized Root Mean Square Residual(SRMR): 0.0751). The three factors labeled as stigma, exclusion and hear respect explained the underlying attitudes captured by the scale.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>This study successfully developed valid and reliable measurement tool to assess attitudes towards abortion has been developed in a Turkish context. The scale provides an important resource for future research and contributes to the broader understanding of abortion-related attitudes.</p>","PeriodicalId":520910,"journal":{"name":"Rwanda journal of medicine and health sciences","volume":"7 3","pages":"411-422"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-11-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12110476/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144500332","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Assessment of Dyslipidaemia and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors among Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients Attending Kabutare District Hospital, Huye, Rwanda.","authors":"Herbert Tendayi Mapira, Joseph Musangwa, Anselme Mugenga, Jessca Umurerwa, Dominique Ufitikirezi, Cuthbert Musarurwa","doi":"10.4314/rjmhs.v7i3.8","DOIUrl":"10.4314/rjmhs.v7i3.8","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Dyslipidaemia is a major contributing factor to the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in type 2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM) patients. People with T2DM are at a significantly high risk of developing dyslipidaemia which in turn is a risk factor for CVD. The objective of this study was to assess the risk factors for CVD in T2DM patients.</p><p><strong>Methodology: </strong>A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 T2DM patients consecutively presenting at Kabutare District Hospital, Huye District southern Rwanda. Excluded were patients on lipid lowering drugs and those with chronic renal and liver diseases.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The overall prevalence of dyslipidaemia was 79% with hypoalphalipoproteinaemia (47%) being the most common and hypercholesterolaemia (29%) the least frequent. When stratified according to glycaemic control, median diastolic blood pressure was significantly higher (p=0.045) in participants whose median fasting plasma glucose (FPG) was ≥5.6 mmol/L. Median fasting triglycerides (p=0.006) and non-HDL-C (p=0.019) concentrations were significantly lower in euglycaemic participants compared to participants with median FPG ≥5.6 mmol/L. Dysglycaemia was significantly associated with dyslipidaemia status (p=0.001).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Effective management and monitoring of dyslipidaemia, particularly among those with poor glycaemic control, is crucial in mitigating CVD risks in this population.</p>","PeriodicalId":520910,"journal":{"name":"Rwanda journal of medicine and health sciences","volume":"7 3","pages":"471-484"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-11-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12110474/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144500286","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Awareness of Risk Factors for Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus among Undergraduates at a Private University in Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Survey.","authors":"Oluwaseun Oluwafunmilayo Abiodun, Timothy Aghogho Ehwarieme","doi":"10.4314/rjmhs.v7i3.10","DOIUrl":"10.4314/rjmhs.v7i3.10","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic condition marked by high blood sugar due to issues with insulin production or function, posing a significant global health challenge. Its prevalence is rapidly increasing, with projections rising from 537 million cases in 2021 to 783 million by 2045, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>The study evaluated the level of awareness of predictive factors of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) among undergraduate students of Achievers University Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A cross-sectional analytical study involving 318 respondents was conducted using a self-administered Google Form questionnaire. Binary and multiple logistic regression analysis were used for data analysis with a significance level set at p<0.05. Analysis were carried out using SPSS version 28.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The study found that 222 (70%) of the respondents have high awareness of predictive factors for the development of T2DM while 96(30%) have low awareness. The study found that age (AOR = 4.883, P<0.001; 95% CI 1.483-2.848), persistent unhealthy diet (AOR = 8.685; 95% CI 1.837-3.285; P<0.006), and heredity (AOR = 6.930; 95% CI 1.294-2.834; P<0.001) are independent predictors of awareness of T2DM.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>This study revealed that the participants had a good level of awareness with regard to the predictive factors of T2DM. However, since a significant proportion had a low level of awareness, there is a need for health promotion and educational programs to be run aimed at addressing gaps in knowledge among the undergraduates.</p>","PeriodicalId":520910,"journal":{"name":"Rwanda journal of medicine and health sciences","volume":"7 3","pages":"495-505"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-11-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12110479/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144500288","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Effect of Myofascial Release and Soft Tissue Mobilization versus Interferential Therapy with Exercises on Neck Musculoskeletal Related Syndromes: A Before and After Study.","authors":"Christian Chance Ndahiriwe, Emmy Bucyana, Malachie Tuyizere, Moussa Hakizimana, Jacques Nshimiyimana, Nuhu Assuman, Juliette Gasana, Jean de Dieu Rukundo, Jean Marie Vianney Semana, Ayyappan Jayavel","doi":"10.4314/rjmhs.v7i3.2","DOIUrl":"10.4314/rjmhs.v7i3.2","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Neck-related musculoskeletal disorders are classified among the top disabling conditions leading to discomfort, pain and functional restrictions which impact people's functions and performance.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>To assess the effects of soft tissue mobilization versus interferential therapy with exercises among adults with neck musculoskeletal syndromes.</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>Thirty-two (32) participants in this study were randomly allocated to two groups. Experimental (n=16) received myofascial release and soft tissue mobilization. Control (n=16) received interferential therapy with conventional neck exercises for 6 weeks. Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) Scores and Neck Disability Index (NDI) were used to measure the effect of the treatment interventions.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The findings from this intervention study showed a significant improvement in pain and disability. Unpaired (independent) t-test on NPRS and NDI scores between groups (NPRS t-test: -3.693 p=0.001) and (NDI t-test: -8.472, p=0.001) thus, favoring Myofascial release and soft tissue mobilization compared to IFT and exercises.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Myofascial release and soft tissue mobilisation treatment provided greater benefits in terms of reduction of functional limitations and pain. IFT and exercise therapy showed improvement suggesting that a combination of both treatment approaches may yield better results than single treatment modality alone.</p>","PeriodicalId":520910,"journal":{"name":"Rwanda journal of medicine and health sciences","volume":"7 3","pages":"403-410"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-11-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12110477/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144500289","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}