5 For Monday
Almost Christmas Day! Time to settle down and have a read before all of the madness:
1 – Lumbar stabilization exercise with and without real-time ultrasound imaging biofeedback in chronic low back pain patients
A newly published randomized controlled trial comparing standard lumbar stabilisation exercises to the same protocol augmented with real-time ultrasound imaging biofeedback (RUSI). The study investigates whether RUSI enhances multifidus activation, functional outcomes and pain reduction in chronic non-specific low back pain patients. This research directly informs how clinicians might use objective feedback tools to improve motor control exercise delivery and engagement in persistent LBP populations.
Key take-home points:
- RUSI may improve motor control engagement and exercise precision, particularly for patients struggling to “find” deep stabilising muscles.
- Advanced physios should consider whether biofeedback tools add meaningful value beyond well-coached exercise in routine practice.
2 – Efficacy of adding manual therapy to hip and knee exercises in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome: a randomized controlled clinical trial
This double-blinded RCT examines whether incorporating manual therapy alongside a structured hip-and-knee exercise programme leads to superior improvements in pain, function and movement quality for people with PFPS. Results from this trial help clarify the additive value of manual techniques when combined with active rehabilitation in a common knee pain cohort.
Key take-home points:
- Manual therapy may provide short-term symptom modulation but should be clearly integrated into an active, exercise-led programme.
- Supports selective rather than routine use of manual techniques within evidence-based PFPS management.
3 – Effectiveness of AI-assisted rehabilitation strategies for musculoskeletal disorders: network meta-analysis
A comprehensive network meta-analysis comparing multiple AI-assisted rehabilitation approaches (including exergaming, robotic systems, gamified feedback and telerehab) for adults with MSK conditions. Interventions were ranked for pain, function and range of motion outcomes, with several technology-assisted strategies outperforming usual care.
Key take-home points:
- AI-supported and gamified exercise may enhance adherence and outcomes when used to augment—not replace—clinical reasoning.
- Long-term effectiveness and cost-effectiveness remain uncertain, highlighting the need for selective, clinically justified use.
4 – University of Birmingham study reshapes digital self-care for people with chronic musculoskeletal pain
This co-production study involved people living with chronic MSK pain evaluating digital self-management tools. The findings emphasise usability, relevance, and trust as key factors influencing uptake and sustained use of digital self-care resources.
Key take-home points:
- Digital self-management tools are more effective when aligned with patient values, literacy and real-world barriers.
- Advanced physios play a key role in guiding patients toward high-quality digital resources and contextualising their use.
5 – Prevalence and risk factors associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorders among physiotherapists in the UAE
This recent observational study reports a high prevalence of work-related MSK disorders among physiotherapists, particularly affecting the low back, neck and shoulders. Identified risk factors include repetitive manual tasks, prolonged static postures and high workload.
Key take-home points:
- MSK injury risk remains high within the physiotherapy workforce, reinforcing the importance of ergonomic practice and workload management.
- Highlights the need for advanced clinicians to model sustainable practice habits and advocate for service-level injury-prevention strategies.