Kinesitherapeutic Approach towards Pectus Carinatum Deformity: A Clinical Case

Introduction: A protruding chest is an overgrowth of the rib cartilage that causes protrusion of the sternum due to rapid growth during puberty, vitamin D deficiency, hereditary transmission, and others. The deformity "pectus carinatum" can be classified as chondrogladiolar or chondromanubrial, depending on the place of greatest protrusion, and lateral deformations are possible. Treatment is usually performed conservatively by corset reinforcement, but in very rare cases, surgery is required. Kinesitherapy is widely used in pectus carinatum; it combines a variety of exercises and techniques that further enhance the effect of treatment.The aim of the article is to observe the effectiveness of an individually appointed kinesitherapy program for a patient with pectus carinatum.Material and Methods: A case of a 13-year-old girl with complaints of chest and back pain is being considered. After consultation with an orthopedist, a deformity of the sternum was found, with a stronger protrusion of the right thoracic half against the background of mild S-shaped thoracolumbar scoliosis. Conservative treatment was prescribed, including exercise therapy for the spine, swimming, a dorsal corset, and a compression corset. The patient was referred to the University Center of Oriental Medicine of MU-Varna (UCOM) for the implementation of an individual rehabilitation treatment plan. A set of exercises was applied every other day for 1 month, after which the patient continued to perform them independently. After the treatment, she was recommended a visit to UCOM twice a month in order to monitor the results achieved and adapt the program to her specific condition.Results: Based on the applied plan, the following results have been achieved: an improvement in posture, muscle strengthening, and overcoming muscle imbalance.Conclusion: The selection of the right methods and materials, their proper application, and implementation, together with constancy and the desire for improvement, lead not only to visible results but also support the overall functioning of the individual

Qigong: essence, theory, and practice

Qigong, which contains elements of philosophy and martial arts, is part of traditional Chinese medicine. Qigong combines movement, breathing, meditation, and coordinated body posture techniques in order to achieve the targeted positive effects of relaxation, exercise, self-improvement, and martial arts training, which are all regarded as preventive and alternative medicine. Qigong finds wide application in modern times. The two main categories of Qigong practice—dynamic or active Qigong and meditative or passive Qigong—are practiced not only in China but all over the world.The aim of the following article is to study and present the impact and benefits of practicing Qigong on the human body for curative and prophylactic purposes

Effectiveness Of The Application Of Kinesio Tape In Athletes

One of the most popular methods of treatment and prevention in sports and kinesitherapy practice is the application of kinesio tape. The method involves placing an elastic band on the skin, used in the recovery process of musculoskeletal dysfunctions, pain control and improvement of sports performance. The aim of the present article is to research the effectiveness of the application of kinesio tape in athletes. A review of the scientific literature related to the application of kinesio tape in different groups of athletes was carried out.  In addition, it is being investigated whether this method leads to significant changes in terms of recovery after soft tissue injuries, faster return to sports activity and better sports performance. Material and methods: a review of scientific articles, meta-analyses, surveys and studies published from 2012 to 2023 from online databases such as PubMed, National Library of Medicine, Google Scholar was performed. Results: research related to the effectiveness of kinesio tape application in athletes is contradictionary. While some studies suggest that kinesio taping may be effective in improving athletic performance, other studies find little to no benefit. Despite the disagreements, most authors are united by the fact that more studies and evidence are needed on the subject. Conclusion: based on the scientific evidence, it can be concluded that a large number of athletes find kinesio tape to be an effective method of treatment and prevention in sports practice