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Children (Basel, Switzerland) Jun 2024Traditional pharmacological treatments, although effective, often carry potential side effects, which positions art therapy and music therapy as promising... (Review)
Review
Interventions through Art Therapy and Music Therapy in Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Language Disorders, and Learning Disabilities in Pediatric-Aged Children: A Systematic Review.
Traditional pharmacological treatments, although effective, often carry potential side effects, which positions art therapy and music therapy as promising non-pharmacological alternatives to alleviate symptoms and improve social, cognitive, and emotional skills without the associated risks. Through a review in the SCOPUS and WOS databases following the PRISMA protocol, a total of 80 articles were analyzed through a series of determined categories and subcategories of analysis. The aim of this study is to evaluate and synthesize the existing evidence on the efficacy and applicability of art therapy and music therapy in the treatment of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), hyperactivity disorder (HSDD), developmental language disorders, and language learning difficulties, identifying best practices and key areas for future research. Among the main findings is that art therapy and music therapy have a significant impact on symptomatology, behavior, and communication as well as social, cognitive, and emotional skills in the pediatric populations studied. These therapies are highly valued by the participants with a large majority recognizing their adaptability to different educational and clinical contexts. It is concluded that these therapies have a high potential as viable alternatives or complements to traditional pharmacological treatments, justifying their application and further study in broader therapeutic contexts.
PubMed: 38929285
DOI: 10.3390/children11060706 -
PloS One 2024Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) can improve physical function in different populations. NMES-related outcomes may be influenced by muscle length (i.e., joint...
Effect of muscle length on maximum evoked torque, discomfort, contraction fatigue, and strength adaptations during electrical stimulation in adult populations: A systematic review.
Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) can improve physical function in different populations. NMES-related outcomes may be influenced by muscle length (i.e., joint angle), a modulator of the force generation capacity of muscle fibers. Nevertheless, to date, there is no comprehensive synthesis of the available scientific evidence regarding the optimal joint angle for maximizing the effectiveness of NMES. We performed a systematic review to investigate the effect of muscle length on NMES-induced torque, discomfort, contraction fatigue, and strength training adaptations in healthy and clinical adult populations (PROSPERO: CRD42022332965). We conducted searches across seven electronic databases: PUBMED, Web of Science, EMBASE, PEDro, BIREME, SCIELO, and Cochrane, over the period from June 2022 to October 2023, without restricting the publication year. We included cross-sectional and longitudinal studies that used NMES as an intervention or assessment tool for comparing muscle lengths in adult populations. We excluded studies on vocalization, respiratory, or pelvic floor muscles. Data extraction was performed via a standardized form to gather information on participants, interventions, and outcomes. Risk of bias was assessed using the Revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for cross-over trials and the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale. Out of the 1185 articles retrieved through our search strategy, we included 36 studies in our analysis, that included 448 healthy young participants (age: 19-40 years) in order to investigate maximum evoked torque (n = 268), contraction fatigability (n = 87), discomfort (n = 82), and muscle strengthening (n = 22), as well as six participants with spinal cord injuries, and 15 healthy older participants. Meta-analyses were possible for comparing maximal evoked torque according to quadriceps muscle length through knee joint angle. At optimal muscle length 50° - 70° of knee flexion, where 0° is full extension), there was greater evoked torque during nerve stimulation compared to very short (0 - 30°) (p<0.001, CI 95%: -2.03, -1.15 for muscle belly stimulation, and -3.54, -1.16 for femoral nerve stimulation), short (31° - 49°) (p = 0.007, CI 95%: -1.58, -0.25), and long (71° - 90°) (p<0.001, CI 95%: 0.29, 1.02) muscle lengths. At long muscle lengths, NMES evoked greater torque than very short (p<0.001, CI 95%: -2.50, -0.67) and short (p = 0.04, CI 95%: -2.22, -0.06) lengths. The shortest quadriceps length generated the highest perceived discomfort for a given current amplitude. The amount of contraction fatigability was greater when muscle length allowed greater torque generation in the pre-fatigue condition. Strength gains were greater for a protocol at the optimal muscle length than for short muscle length. The quality of evidence was very high for most comparisons for evoked torque. However, further studies are necessary to achieve certainty for the other outcomes. Optimal muscle length should be considered the primary choice during NMES interventions, as it promotes higher levels of force production and may facilitate the preservation/gain in muscle force and mass, with reduced discomfort. However, a longer than optimal muscle length may also be used, due to possible muscle lengthening at high evoked tension. Thorough understanding of these physiological principles is imperative for the appropriate prescription of NMES for healthy and clinical populations.
Topics: Humans; Torque; Adult; Muscle Fatigue; Muscle, Skeletal; Muscle Contraction; Electric Stimulation; Muscle Strength; Adaptation, Physiological; Electric Stimulation Therapy
PubMed: 38857245
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304205 -
Age and Ageing May 2024Fall prevention is a global health priority. Strength and balance exercise programmes are effective at reducing falls. Emerging literature suggests dance is an enjoyable... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
INTRODUCTION
Fall prevention is a global health priority. Strength and balance exercise programmes are effective at reducing falls. Emerging literature suggests dance is an enjoyable and sociable form of exercise. However, there is little evidence that dance reduces fall incidence.
METHODS
Systematic review and meta-analysis examining effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of dance for falls prevention in older adults. Five databases were searched with no restrictions on publication date or intervention settings. Risk of bias was assessed using variants of Cochrane Risk of bias tools, Mixed-Methods Appraisal and Drummond checklist as appropriate. Certainty of evidence was assessed using GRADE.
RESULTS
Forty-one studies were included (19 RCTs, 13 quasi-experimental, two mixed-method, seven observational studies, 2,451 participants). Five types of dance interventions were identified: ballroom and Latin dance, dance exercise, cultural dance, dance therapy, and low-impact dance. Meta-analysis was only possible for functional outcome measures: Timed-Up-and-Go (dance versus usual care, mean difference (MD) = 1.36; 95% CI -3.57 to 0.85), Sit-to-Stand (dance versus exercise MD = -0.85; 95% CI -2.64 to 0.93: dance versus education MD = -1.64; 95% CI -4.12 to 0.85), Berg Balance Scale (dance versus usual care MD = 0.61; 95% CI -4.26 to 5.47). There was unexplained variance in effects and no significant differences between intervention and control groups. Overall, certainty of evidence was very low; we are uncertain about the effect of dance interventions in reducing falls.
CONCLUSIONS
There is very low certainty evidence for dance as an alternative to strength and balance training if the aim is to prevent falls. No robust evidence on the cost-effectiveness of dance interventions for the prevention of falls was found.
PROSPERO REGISTRATION
CRD42022382908.
Topics: Humans; Accidental Falls; Aged; Dance Therapy; Dancing; Cost-Benefit Analysis; Male; Female; Postural Balance; Treatment Outcome; Risk Factors; Age Factors; Aged, 80 and over
PubMed: 38776214
DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afae104 -
PloS One 2024Fundamental physical functions such as postural control and balance are vital in preserving everyday life, affecting an individual's quality of life. Dance is a physical...
BACKGROUND
Fundamental physical functions such as postural control and balance are vital in preserving everyday life, affecting an individual's quality of life. Dance is a physical activity that offers health advantages across various life stages. Nevertheless, the effects of dance interventions on physical function, postural control, and quality of life among older adults have remained underexplored. The review aimed to examine the strength of evidence for dance interventions on physical function and quality of life among middle-aged and older adults.
METHODS
A systematic review was conducted across four databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Medline), focusing on studies involving more than four weeks of dance interventions. MeSH terms [dance or dance intervention or dance rehabilitation or dance movement] and [motor function or functional capacity or postural control or functional mobility or mobility or postural balance or balance or flexibility or gait] and [well-being or quality of life or life satisfaction] were utilized in the search. This review was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42023422857). Included studies were assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias.
RESULTS
The search revealed 885 studies, and 16 met the inclusion criteria. The effects of various dance genres on physical functions and quality of life were compared. Most studies showed that dance intervention improved physical function, balance, postural control and quality of life. Dance intervention showed a high level of adherence compared to physiotherapy, self-care, conventional therapy, and aerobic and resistance exercise.
CONCLUSION
In terms of improving physical function and quality of life, structured dance is a safe and relatively effective alternative to exercise. Note the effect of movement selection and intensity in the dance interventions. Dance with music may increase participants' interest, encouraging more physical activity among middle-aged and older adults.
Topics: Middle Aged; Humans; Aged; Quality of Life; Exercise; Physical Therapy Modalities; Movement; Postural Balance
PubMed: 38640093
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301236 -
Health Promotion International Apr 2024Traditional interventions aiming to improve students' mental health and quality of life include meditation or canine therapy. The development of physical...
Traditional interventions aiming to improve students' mental health and quality of life include meditation or canine therapy. The development of physical activity-related interventions has increased over the past decade. We aimed to review all studies using physical activity for improving the mental health and quality of life in higher education students whilst describing the interventions, measurements and effectiveness. A systematic search of six electronic databases including: ProQuest, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus and CENTRAL, was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Randomized or non-randomized controlled trial physical activity-related interventions involving higher education students aiming to improve their mental health and quality of life were included. Searches yielded 58 articles with interventions involving martial arts, sport, mind-body exercises and anaerobic exercises. Psychological measures varied across studies including the State Trait Anxiety Inventory, Beck Depression Inventory and the Perceived Stress Scale. Over half of the studies included in this review (n = 36) were effective in improving students' mental health or quality of life. Findings from our review suggest that interventions aiming to be effective in improving students' mental health quality of life should aim to deliver moderate-vigorous intensity exercises such as dance or Pilates. This systematic review was based on a published protocol in PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42022325975).
Topics: Humans; Animals; Dogs; Mental Health; Quality of Life; Students; Psychological Tests; Self Report
PubMed: 38563387
DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daae027 -
Sports Medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) May 2024Physical activity is known to improve psychological and cognitive outcomes. Learning dance sequences may challenge cognition, partnered or group dance may benefit social... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
The Effectiveness of Dance Interventions on Psychological and Cognitive Health Outcomes Compared with Other Forms of Physical Activity: A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis.
BACKGROUND
Physical activity is known to improve psychological and cognitive outcomes. Learning dance sequences may challenge cognition, partnered or group dance may benefit social interactions, and the artistic aspect may improve psychological wellbeing. Dance is an equally effective form of physical activity compared with other structured physical activities to improve physical health, but it is unclear how effective dance could be for psychological and cognitive outcome measures.
OBJECTIVE
To systematically review the literature on the effectiveness of structured dance interventions, compared with structured exercise programmes, on psychological and cognitive outcomes across the lifespan.
METHODS
Eight databases were searched from earliest records to July 2022. Studies investigating a dance intervention lasting ≥ 4 weeks, including psychological and/or cognitive health outcomes, and having a structured exercise comparison group were included. Screening and data extraction were performed by two independent reviewers at all stages. All reviewer disagreements were resolved by the primary author. Where appropriate, meta-analysis was performed, or an effect size estimate generated.
RESULTS
Of 21,737 records identified, 27 studies met the inclusion criteria. Total sample size of included studies was 1392 (944 females, 418 males, 30 unreported). Dance was equally as effective as other physical activity interventions in improving quality of life for people with Parkinson's disease [mean difference 3.09; 95% confidence interval (CI) - 2.13 to 8.30; p = 0.25], reducing anxiety (standardised mean difference 2.26; 95% CI - 2.37 to 6.90; p = 0.34), and improving depressive symptoms (standardised mean difference 0.78; 95% CI - 0.92 to 2.48; p = 0.37). Preliminary evidence found dance to be superior to other physical activity interventions to improve motivation, aspects of memory, and social cognition and to reduce distress. Preliminary evidence found dance to be inferior to other physical activity interventions to improve stress, self-efficacy and language fluency.
CONCLUSION
Undertaking structured dance of any genre is generally equally and occasionally more effective than other types of structured exercise for improving a range of psychological and cognitive outcomes.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
PROSPERO: CRD42018099637.
Topics: Humans; Dancing; Cognition; Exercise; Quality of Life; Parkinson Disease; Dance Therapy; Mental Health; Depression
PubMed: 38270792
DOI: 10.1007/s40279-023-01990-2 -
Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics May 2024Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Dance has emerged as a comprehensive intervention for enhancing... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
OBJECTIVES
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Dance has emerged as a comprehensive intervention for enhancing well-being in this population. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the effectiveness of dance on mental health and quality of life among individuals with PD.
METHODS
Three databases were searched in December 2022. Research papers comparing the effects of dance with a non-dance control on the quality of life or mental health of individuals with PD were included. Two authors independently screened the studies, extracted data, and assessed methodological quality of eligible studies. To address the interdependence of effect sizes within studies, the three-level meta-analysis approach was employed to analyze the data.
RESULTS
Thirteen trials involving a total of 496 participants were included, with 11 being subjected to statistical analysis. The results indicated that dance had a positive impact on mental health (g = 0.43, 95 % CI = [0.11, 0.75]) and quality of life (g = 0.46, 95 % CI = [-0.04, 0.95]) when compared to passive control groups. Moderator analyses revealed that non-partnered dance and dance interventions with lower total dosages were particularly beneficial for mental health.
CONCLUSION
Dance interventions are an effective lifestyle activity for enhancing mental health and quality of life in individuals with PD. A theoretical framework is proposed to explain the impact of dance on well-being from neurological, social, physical, and psychological perspectives.
Topics: Humans; Parkinson Disease; Quality of Life; Neurodegenerative Diseases; Mental Health; Life Style; Dance Therapy
PubMed: 38237379
DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2024.105326 -
PloS One 2024The systematic review aimed to review the research on the effects of dance interventions, relative to normal lifestyles, on body composition in people with overweight... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
OBJECTIVE
The systematic review aimed to review the research on the effects of dance interventions, relative to normal lifestyles, on body composition in people with overweight and obesity.
METHODS
7 databases were searched from their inception to 3 July 2023 for studies with dance interventions and normal lifestyles groups. Only studies investigating dance interventions in people with overweight and obesity(body mass index (BMI)>24kg/m2 and percent fat mass (Fat(%)) abnormal(male>20%, female>25%)) were included in the meta-analysis. There were no restrictions on dance forms.
RESULTS
654 studies were identified from the databases, and 10 studies were evaluated to be eligible. The meta-analysis revealed that compared to normal lifestyles dance had meaningful improvements in body mass(BM), BMI, waist circumference(WC), Fat(%), and fat mass(Fat(kg)). No significant differences were found in the waist-to-hip ratio(WHR).
CONCLUSIONS
Dance is effective on fat loss in people with overweight and obesity, and has a significant improvement on body composition and morphology. For its high efficiency and greater sense of enjoyment, dance can be a beneficial exercise intervention for fat loss.
Topics: Male; Humans; Female; Overweight; Dancing; Obesity; Body Composition; Body Mass Index; Waist Circumference
PubMed: 38232096
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296089 -
Journal of Medical Internet Research Oct 2023The COVID-19 pandemic forced numerous touch-based fields, including manual therapy, body psychotherapy, arts therapy, creative arts practices, and the fitness industry,... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
The COVID-19 pandemic forced numerous touch-based fields, including manual therapy, body psychotherapy, arts therapy, creative arts practices, and the fitness industry, to swiftly transition to web-based service delivery. These disciplines faced substantial challenges in adapting their traditionally in-person practices, which rely heavily on physical touch and close proximity, to a web format.
OBJECTIVE
This review intends to provide a systematically sourced overview of the literature concerning innovative approaches for adapting touch-based practices to the web format in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
METHODS
A systematic search across 7 databases and gray literature sources identified studies presenting innovative web delivery methods, particularly those addressing the challenges arising from the absence of physical proximity and touch. The inclusion criteria were designed to encompass studies exploring the creative adaptation of touch-based practices to web formats in response to the COVID-19 pandemic irrespective of study methodology. The exclusion criteria applied to studies focusing solely on technical aspects of web delivery or nontouch or noninteractive practices. There were no geographical restrictions, but the selection was limited to publications from 2020 onward. As only qualitative studies were found, data synthesis was conducted thematically.
RESULTS
The review encompassed 17 studies revealing that touch-based fields successfully devised innovative and creative methods for web service delivery. These methods were categorized into five main themes: (1) adapted working methods (cross-field methods), (2) adapted working methods for sensorial experiences and nonphysical connections, (3) creative methods using materials or additional tools, (4) creative use of web-based platform tools or additional technologies, and (5) creative methods requiring previous preparation of practitioners or participants. These creative approaches allowed practitioners to address the challenges of web touch-based practices, fostering connections and offering unique sensory experiences, albeit with some concerns related to technology and preparation.
CONCLUSIONS
These innovative methods demonstrate promise in circumventing the limitations imposed by the lack of physical touch and proximity in web settings during the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, these insights hold potential for application in other fields in the future. This systematic search and thematic synthesis provide valuable guidance for practitioners and educators seeking to navigate the evolving landscape of web service delivery in touch-based disciplines, ensuring continuity of care even in challenging circumstances.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
PROSPERO CRD42022379731; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=379731.
Topics: Humans; Touch; Pandemics; COVID-19; Databases, Factual; Exercise
PubMed: 37883151
DOI: 10.2196/46355 -
BMC Geriatrics Oct 2023Individuals with mild cognitive impairment are at high risk of developing dementia. Dance therapy has promising applications in delaying cognitive decline. However, the... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
Individuals with mild cognitive impairment are at high risk of developing dementia. Dance therapy has promising applications in delaying cognitive decline. However, the effectiveness of dance therapy for older adults with mild cognitive impairment is unclear. The objective of this review was to evaluate the effectiveness of dance therapy on global cognitive function, specific cognitive subdomains, quality of life, and mental health in older adults with mild cognitive impairment to enrich health management strategies for dementia.
METHODS
Electronic databases and grey literature were searched from inception up to September 23, 2023. The language was limited to English and Chinese. Relevant studies were screened and assessed for risk of bias. A meta-analysis and subgroup analyses stratified by measurement instrument, dance type, intervention duration, and frequency were conducted using the STATA 16.0 software. This review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines.
RESULTS
Ten studies involving 984 participants aged 55 years and over who met the eligibility criteria were included. Dance therapy significantly improved global cognitive function, memory, executive function, attention, language, and mental health (i.e., depression and neuropsychiatric symptoms). However, the effects of dance therapy on processing speed, visuospatial ability, and quality of life in older adults with mild cognitive impairment remain inconclusive. Moreover, dance interventions of longer duration (> 3 months) improved global cognition more than shorter interventions.
CONCLUSION
This review reported that dance therapy was effective in improving global cognitive function, memory, executive function, attention, language, and mental health (i.e., depression and neuropsychiatric symptoms). Hence, it may be an effective non-pharmacological complementary treatment for older adults with mild cognitive impairment.
Topics: Humans; Aged; Dance Therapy; Mental Health; Quality of Life; Cognitive Dysfunction; Cognition; Dementia
PubMed: 37880590
DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-04406-y