Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Research
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<p><em>Your trusted platform for advancing innovation in healthcare research.</em></p> <p><strong>About JHRR</strong><br />The Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Research (JHRR) is a peer-reviewed, open-access quarterly journal dedicated to publishing high-quality interdisciplinary research in health, medical sciences, and rehabilitation. Our mission is to bridge the gap between research and clinical practice, foster global knowledge dissemination, and support emerging scholars in their pursuit of impactful research.</p> <div class="flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow"> <div class="min-h-8 text-message flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words text-start [.text-message+&]:mt-5" dir="auto" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="a7ae5ece-62da-4962-bef8-43e4698f5e0e" data-message-model-slug="gpt-4o"> <div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]"> <div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"> <h3><strong>Open Access Statement</strong></h3> <p>The <strong>Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Research (JHRR)</strong> is committed to the principles of open access as defined by the <a title="Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ)" href="https://doaj.org/apply/guide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ).</a></p> <p>All articles published in JHRR are freely and immediately accessible to the public without any embargo period. This ensures that:</p> <ul> <li>Anyone can <strong>read, download, copy, distribute, print, search</strong>, or link to the full text of articles.</li> <li>Articles can be <strong>crawled for indexing</strong> and used as data for software or other lawful purposes.</li> <li>No user registration is required to access content.</li> </ul> <p>All content is licensed under the <strong>Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0)</strong>, allowing unrestricted use with proper attribution, provided the work is not altered or used commercially.</p> <p>A printed version of the journal is available for purchase if required.</p> <p><strong>JHRR upholds open access to promote global knowledge dissemination and foster academic innovation.</strong></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <hr /> <h3><strong>Why Choose JHRR?</strong></h3> <ol> <li><strong>Open Access:</strong> Articles are freely accessible under the <a title="Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License." href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/deed.en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.</a></li> <li><strong>Ethical Publishing:</strong> Adherence to COPE, ICMJE Recommendations, and HEC guidelines ensures transparency and integrity, <a title="Details" href="https://jhrlmc.com/index.php/home/Publication" target="_blank" rel="noopener">details</a></li> <li><strong>Robust Peer Review:</strong> A double-blind process guarantees impartial evaluation by domain experts.</li> <li><strong>Global Reach:</strong> Indexed in platforms like Google Scholar, CrossRef DOI, Index Copernicus, PakMediNet, and more. Unique DOIs and LOCKSS archiving enhance accessibility and preservation. <a title="Details here" href="https://jhrlmc.com/index.php/home/Indexing" target="_blank" rel="noopener">details here</a></li> </ol> <hr /> <h3><strong>Scope of JHRR</strong></h3> <p>We invite submissions across a wide range of disciplines, including:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Health and Medical Sciences:</strong> Research on diagnostics, treatments, and disease prevention.</li> <li><strong>Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy:</strong> Innovations in techniques and assistive technologies.</li> <li><strong>Mental and Behavioral Health:</strong> Studies in neurorehabilitation and psychosocial support.</li> <li><strong>Pharmaceutical and Nutritional Sciences:</strong> Drug development, dietary interventions, and metabolic health.</li> <li><strong>Emerging Technologies in Healthcare:</strong> AI, telemedicine, and digital health innovations.</li> </ul> <p><a title="Explore our Aims and Scope" href="https://jhrlmc.com/index.php/home/about" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Explore our Aims and Scope</a> for more details.</p> <hr /> <h3><strong>For Authors</strong></h3> <ul> <li><strong>Publication (upon acceptance) Fee:</strong> <ul> <li><strong>National:</strong> PKR 25,000/-</li> <li><strong>International:</strong> USD equivalent</li> <li><strong>Waivers:</strong> Available for eligible authors upon request.</li> </ul> </li> <li><strong>Submission Email:</strong> <a rel="noopener">submit@jhrlmc.com</a></li> </ul> <p>For detailed guidelines, visit our <a href="#" rel="noopener">Submission Guidelines</a>.</p> <hr /> <h3><strong>Our Policies</strong></h3> <p>JHRR ensures transparency and adherence to global standards with policies on:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Corrections and Retractions:</strong> Maintaining the integrity of the academic record.</li> <li><strong>Informed Consent:</strong> Ensuring ethical research involving human participants.</li> <li><strong>Plagiarism and Data Sharing:</strong> Upholding originality and reproducibility.</li> <li><strong>Privacy and Advertising:</strong> Safeguarding author and reader information.</li> </ul> <p><a title="Read our full Policies." href="https://jhrlmc.com/index.php/home/Publication" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Read our full Policies.</a></p> <hr /> <h3><strong style="font-size: 0.875rem;">Editorial Team</strong></h3> <div class="flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow"> <div class="min-h-8 text-message flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words text-start [.text-message+&]:mt-5" dir="auto" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="17f7ecf9-da0d-4e61-b2ac-a06bea72304c" data-message-model-slug="gpt-4o"> <div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]"> <div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"> <p>Our versatile editorial team includes experienced professionals and domain experts from across multiple disciplines. This diversity ensures a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to assessing submissions, maintaining the highest standards of peer review and publication ethics.<br /><a title="Editorial Team, Editorial Boards, Advisory Board" href="https://jhrlmc.com/index.php/home/about/editorialTeam" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Meet Our Editorial Team.</a></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <hr /> <h3><strong>Publisher Information</strong></h3> <p><strong>Publisher:</strong> Link Medical Interface (LMI)<br /><strong>Address:</strong> 8 Commercial Sunny Park, PCSIR Phase II, Lahore, Pakistan<br /><strong>Website:</strong> <a href="http://www.lmi.education" target="_new" rel="noopener">www.lmi.education</a></p> <hr /> <div class="flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow"> <div class="min-h-8 text-message flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words text-start [.text-message+&]:mt-5" dir="auto" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="533d8c20-babb-4a6c-a085-a3cf5b1fd5ad" data-message-model-slug="gpt-4o"> <div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]"> <div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"> <h3><strong>Copyright</strong></h3> <p>JHRR ensures that authors retain copyright and full publishing rights under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License, granting unrestricted non-commercial access and proper attribution.</p> <h3><strong>What Falls Under Access?</strong></h3> <ul> <li>Immediate and free availability of all published content.</li> <li>Permission for users to read, download, copy, distribute, print, and link to full-text articles.</li> <li>No registration or embargo period required for access.</li> </ul> <hr /> <div class="flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow"> <div class="min-h-8 text-message flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words text-start [.text-message+&]:mt-5" dir="auto" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="533d8c20-babb-4a6c-a085-a3cf5b1fd5ad" data-message-model-slug="gpt-4o"> <div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]"> <div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"> <h3><strong style="font-size: 0.875rem;">Join Us</strong></h3> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <p>Contribute to the global dialogue in healthcare and rehabilitation research. <a title="Submit your manuscript today!" href="https://jhrlmc.com/index.php/home/about/submissions" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Submit your manuscript today!</a></p>Link Medical Interface, Lahore, Pakistanen-USJournal of Health and Rehabilitation Research2791-156X<p><strong>Public Licensing Terms</strong></p> <p>This work is licensed under the <strong>Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0)</strong>. Under this license:</p> <ul> <li>You are free to <strong>share</strong> (copy and redistribute the material in any medium or format) and <strong>adapt</strong> (remix, transform, and build upon the material) for any purpose, including commercial use.</li> <li><strong>Attribution</strong> must be given to the original author(s) and source in a manner that is reasonable and does not imply endorsement.</li> <li>No additional restrictions may be applied that conflict with the terms of this license.</li> </ul> <p>For more details, visit: <a target="_new" rel="noopener">https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/</a>.</p>Impact of Exoskeleton-Assisted Rehabilitation on Gait Training in Patients with Spinal Cord Injury: A Longitudinal Observational Study
https://jhrlmc.com/index.php/home/article/view/1712
<p><strong>Background</strong> Spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to significant impairments in mobility, functional independence, and quality of life. Exoskeleton-assisted rehabilitation has emerged as a promising intervention to enhance gait performance and functional outcomes in SCI patients. <strong>Objective</strong>: To evaluate the efficacy of exoskeleton-assisted rehabilitation in improving gait parameters, functional independence, and quality of life over six months in individuals with SCI. <strong>Methods</strong>: A longitudinal observational study was conducted with 99 SCI patients (63% male, mean age 42.3 ± 10.5 years). Participants underwent exoskeleton-assisted gait training three times per week for six months. Gait parameters (10-Meter Walk Test, 6-Minute Walk Test, Timed Up and Go Test), functional independence (SCIM III), and quality of life (SF-36) were assessed at baseline, three months, and six months. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA in SPSS v25, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. <strong>Results</strong>: Significant improvements were observed in gait parameters: 10-Meter Walk Test (baseline: 37.2 ± 8.9 s, six months: 26.8 ± 6.1 s, p < 0.001), 6-Minute Walk Test (baseline: 148.7 ± 22.5 m, six months: 237.6 ± 30.4 m, p < 0.001), and Timed Up and Go Test (baseline: 19.8 ± 5.3 s, six months: 14.0 ± 4.1 s, p < 0.001). SCIM III scores improved from 47.5 ± 12.4 to 63.7 ± 16.8 (p < 0.001). <strong>Conclusion</strong>: Exoskeleton-assisted rehabilitation significantly enhanced gait performance, functional independence, and quality of life in SCI patients over six months. These findings highlight its potential as a safe and effective intervention in neurorehabilitation.</p>Tayyaba NiazAnam Abbas
Copyright (c) 2024 Tayyaba Niaz, Anam Abbas
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2024-12-312024-12-31441410.61919/jhrr.v4i4.1712The Role of Gut Dysbiosis in Autoimmune Disorders Among General Population
https://jhrlmc.com/index.php/home/article/view/1710
<p><strong>Background</strong>: Gut dysbiosis has been increasingly implicated in the pathogenesis of autoimmune disorders, yet there is limited research on its role in General Population. Differences in genetic, environmental, and dietary factors necessitate region-specific studies to better understand microbiota-autoimmunity interactions. <strong>Objective:</strong> To compare the gut microbiome composition between individuals with autoimmune disorders and healthy controls in a General population and identify microbiota alterations associated with autoimmune conditions. <strong>Methods:</strong> A case-control study was conducted with 138 participants, comprising 69 individuals with autoimmune disorders and 69 matched healthy controls. Data were collected on demographics, clinical history, and dietary habits. Stool samples were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, targeting the V3–V4 regions to assess microbial diversity and taxonomic composition. Alpha diversity was evaluated using the Shannon index, and beta diversity was analyzed through Bray-Curtis dissimilarity. Statistical analyses included t-tests, chi-square tests, and logistic regression using SPSS version 25. <strong>Results:</strong> Cases exhibited significantly lower Shannon diversity index scores (2.8 ± 0.4 vs. 3.2 ± 0.5, p = 0.01) and reduced Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidetes ratio (1.5 vs. 2.2, p = 0.03). Enrichment of Prevotella (12.4%) and Collinsella (8.5%) was observed in cases (p < 0.001). Logistic regression identified reduced microbial diversity as an independent predictor of autoimmune disorders (OR: 2.3, 95% CI: 1.2–4.4, p = 0.03). <strong>Conclusion:</strong> Gut dysbiosis characterized by reduced microbial diversity and altered taxonomic composition was significantly associated with autoimmune disorders in a general population. These findings underscore the need for microbiome-targeted interventions in managing autoimmune conditions.</p>Shafaq IlyasSania Niaz
Copyright (c) 2024 Shafaq Ilyas, Sania Niaz
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2024-12-312024-12-31441410.61919/jhrr.v4i4.1710Exploring Public Awareness of Kidney Failure and Its Management in Sialkot, Punjab
https://jhrlmc.com/index.php/home/article/view/1708
<p><strong>Background:</strong> Background: Kidney failure is a significant public health concern with high morbidity and mortality. Public awareness is crucial for early detection, prevention, and management of this condition.<br /><strong>Objective:</strong> To evaluate the level of awareness, knowledge gaps, and factors influencing kidney failure awareness among residents of Sialkot, Punjab, Pakistan.<br /><strong>Methods:</strong> A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from May to August 2024, involving 422 participants selected through convenience sampling. A structured and validated questionnaire collected socio-demographic data and knowledge about kidney failure, its risk factors, symptoms, diagnostics, and treatments. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, employing descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression. Ethical approval was obtained in adherence to the Declaration of Helsinki.<br /><strong>Results:</strong> Of the 422 participants, 81.8% reported moderate awareness, while 18.2% had no knowledge of kidney failure. Awareness was significantly associated with education (p < 0.001), age (p = 0.03), and urban residence (p = 0.01). Only 26.5% identified all major risk factors, while 25.4% were aware of dialysis. Higher education (OR = 2.89, 95% CI: 1.56–5.32) and urban residence (OR = 1.97, 95% CI: 1.12–3.45) were strong predictors of awareness.<br /><strong>Conclusion:</strong> Despite moderate awareness, significant knowledge gaps remain, particularly in rural and less-educated populations. Targeted educational interventions are essential to bridge these gaps and promote effective kidney disease management.</p>Fatima AfzalSherjeel AdnanZahra BatoolSaba KhanumAsia MunsifHarm ShafiqueFatima MureedMehrab NadeemNavera Ayaz
Copyright (c) 2024 Fatima Afzal, Sherjeel Adnan, Zahra Batool, Saba Khanum, Asia Munsif, Harm Shafique, Fatima Mureed, Mehrab Nadeem, Navera Ayaz
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2025-01-032025-01-034410.61919/jhrr.v4i4.1708Efficacy of Combined Task-Oriented Training and Mirror Therapy in Post-Stroke Upper Limb Recovery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
https://jhrlmc.com/index.php/home/article/view/1713
<p><strong>Background</strong>: Stroke-induced upper limb impairments significantly reduce functional independence and quality of life. Task-oriented training (TOT) and mirror therapy (MT) are established neurorehabilitation techniques. Combining these therapies may enhance recovery through synergistic mechanisms. <strong>Objective</strong>: To evaluate the efficacy of combining TOT and MT on upper limb motor function, spasticity, and functional independence in post-stroke patients. <strong>Methods</strong>: This randomized controlled trial included 40 post-stroke patients (20 per group) with upper limb hemiparesis. Participants were randomized into an intervention group (combined TOT and MT) and a control group (TOT alone). Both groups received 45-minute sessions, five days per week, for four weeks. Outcomes were assessed using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment Upper Extremity (FMA-UE), Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), and Barthel Index. Data analysis was performed using repeated-measures ANOVA and SPSS version 25, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. <strong>Results</strong>: The intervention group demonstrated significantly greater improvements in FMA-UE (45.6 ± 4.9 vs. 38.2 ± 5.7, p < 0.001) and ARAT (31.2 ± 3.9 vs. 26.4 ± 4.1, p < 0.001). Spasticity reduction (MAS: -1.8 ± 0.4 vs. -1.2 ± 0.5, p = 0.002) and functional independence (Barthel Index: 8.4 ± 1.2 vs. 5.9 ± 1.3, p < 0.001) were also superior in the intervention group. <strong>Conclusion</strong>: Combining TOT and MT significantly improved upper limb motor function, spasticity, and functional independence in post-stroke patients, highlighting its potential as an effective rehabilitation strategy</p>Amna AbbasSyeda Rahat Jabeen
Copyright (c) 2024 Amna Abbas, Syeda Rahat Jabeen
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2024-12-312024-12-31441410.61919/jhrr.v4i4.1713Efficacy of Virtual Reality Games in Enhancing Motor Coordination in Children with Dyspraxia: A Randomized Controlled Trial
https://jhrlmc.com/index.php/home/article/view/1711
<p><strong>Background</strong>: Children with dyspraxia often face challenges in motor coordination, significantly affecting their functional independence and quality of life. Virtual reality (VR)-based interventions have shown promise in improving motor skills through engaging, interactive environments. <strong>Objective</strong>: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of VR-based interventions in improving motor coordination, balance, fine motor skills, and quality of life in children with dyspraxia compared to conventional therapy. <strong>Methods</strong>: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 60 children aged 6–12 years diagnosed with dyspraxia, randomized into intervention (VR-based therapy) and control (standard physiotherapy) groups (n=30 per group). The intervention group participated in VR sessions three times a week for 12 weeks, focusing on motor tasks such as object manipulation and balance. Motor coordination was assessed using the Movement Assessment Battery for Children (MABC), with secondary outcomes including balance, fine motor skills, and quality of life. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25 with repeated-measures ANOVA. <strong>Results</strong>: The intervention group showed a significant improvement in MABC scores (mean change: 7.3 ± 3.1) compared to the control group (mean change: 1.8 ± 3.4; p<0.001p<0.001). Balance improved by 12.9% (p<0.001p<0.001), fine motor skills by 9.7% (p<0.001p<0.001), and quality of life by 11.8% (p<0.001p<0.001). <strong>Conclusion</strong>: VR-based interventions significantly enhanced motor coordination and related outcomes in children with dyspraxia, demonstrating their potential as an effective rehabilitation tool.</p>Ahmed JamalRahat Afzal
Copyright (c) 2024 Ahmed Jamal, Rahat Afzal
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2024-12-312024-12-31441510.61919/jhrr.v4i4.1711Prevalence of Atrial Fibrillation in Older Adults with Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-Sectional Study
https://jhrlmc.com/index.php/home/article/view/1709
<p><strong>Background</strong>: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmia in older adults, with diabetes mellitus (DM) serving as a significant risk factor. The interplay of aging, glycemic control, and comorbid conditions such as hypertension and chronic kidney disease (CKD) heightens the prevalence and associated risks of AF in this population. <strong>Objective</strong>: To determine the prevalence of AF in older adults with DM and identify key associated risk factors. <strong>Methods</strong>: This cross-sectional study included 137 older adults with DM recruited from clinical settings. Participants underwent clinical evaluations, including demographic data collection, glycemic control assessment (HbA1c), and screening for comorbidities. Standard 12-lead electrocardiography was used to detect AF, with all diagnoses confirmed by certified cardiologists. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression, were performed using SPSS version 25. <strong>Results</strong>: The overall prevalence of AF was 11.7% (16/137), with 43.8% (7/16) newly diagnosed cases and 31.3% (5/16) asymptomatic AF. Advanced age (OR: 1.45; 95% CI: 1.11–1.88; p=0.005) and CKD (OR: 2.87; 95% CI: 1.33–6.21; p=0.007) were significant independent predictors. <strong>Conclusion</strong>: The study highlights a significant prevalence of AF, including silent cases, in older adults with DM, emphasizing the need for routine screening and early intervention in high-risk populations.</p>Adnan KhalidSafia Niaz
Copyright (c) 2024 Adnan Khalid, Safia Niaz
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2024-12-312024-12-31441410.61919/jhrr.v4i4.1709