Theme Issue

Advances in Rehabilitation Medicine

Rehabilitation medicine stands at the forefront of restoring function, improving quality of life, and promoting independence for individuals affected by injury, illness, or disability. This theme issue highlights recent advances and innovative approaches across the rehabilitation spectrum, from neurorehabilitation to orthopedic and cardiac rehabilitation programs.

Contributions explore cutting-edge topics including virtual reality applications in neurorehabilitation, community-based cardiac rehabilitation programs, gait analysis in rare disorders, and innovative surgical rehabilitation protocols. These articles demonstrate how technology, multidisciplinary collaboration, and patient-centered approaches are transforming rehabilitation outcomes.

The collection emphasizes evidence-based practices, novel therapeutic interventions, and the integration of technology in rehabilitation settings. Together, these perspectives showcase the dynamic evolution of rehabilitation medicine and its critical role in optimizing patient recovery and long-term functional outcomes.

Case Report

Multimodal assessment of neuroplasticity in the neurorehabilitation process using virtual reality technology: a case study

Virtual Reality Neuroplasticity Neurorehabilitation

To evaluate neuroplastic changes during a neurorehabilitation protocol mediated by a serious video game in virtual reality using a multimodal assessment. This case study demonstrates the potential of VR technology in monitoring and enhancing neurorehabilitation outcomes.

By Alejandro Yanadel, Daniela Pedrozo, Fernando Tettamanti, Juan Iturrieta, Emanuel Tello, Alicia Shiratori, Natalia Lopez, Juan Graffigna, Elisa Perez

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Research Article

Neuro-Rehabilitation of the Soleus Muscles: Restoring Optimal Diastolic Blood Pressure in Older Adults

Soleus Muscles Neuro-rehabilitation Diastolic Blood Pressure

Diastolic blood pressure declines after age 50 such that older adults commonly have a diastolic pressure well below the optimal range of 80-90mmHg, resulting in increased risk of all-cause mortality, cognitive impairment, heart disease, and cancer. This study examines neurorehabilitation approaches targeting the soleus muscles to restore optimal diastolic blood pressure in older adults.

By Kenneth McLeod, Kyle Washington

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Research Article

Efficacy of a Community-Based Phase III Cardiac Rehabilitation Program in Improving Function in Older Adults

Cardiac Rehabilitation Community-Based Older Adults

The purpose of this investigation was to analyze objective measures of endurance, balance, and strength following 4 and 12 weeks of participation in a combined volunteer and student run Phase III cardiovascular wellness program at a public university. This community-based rehabilitation program demonstrates the effectiveness of collaborative approaches in improving functional outcomes for older adults.

By Konrad Dias, Henry Peterson, Dan Nguyen, Linda Paumer, Dustin Nadler

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Research Article

Design, Implementation, and Early Safety Outcomes of a Multidisciplinary Ambulatory Arthroplasty Program With Structured Home-Based Care in a Medium-Complexity Setting

Arthroplasty Patient Safety Ambulatory Care

Ambulatory joint arthroplasty has expanded worldwide as a safe and efficient alternative to inpatient care for selected patients. However, same-day discharge shifts postoperative risk from the hospital to the home, posing patient safety challenges-particularly in medium-complexity institutions. This study presents the design, implementation, and early safety outcomes of a multidisciplinary ambulatory arthroplasty program.

By Ana Milena Herrera Torres, Ivan Agudelo, Liliana Ceballos, Silvia Arango, Claudia Acosta

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Research Article

Efficacy of the Short Splint versus traditional dorsal splint for rehabilitation of Zone II flexor tendon repairs: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Flexor Tendon Splint Rehabilitation Randomized Trial

Flexor tendon rehabilitation in zone II remains challenging due to the risk of complications such as tendon adhesions and rupture. A previously reported audit of the Manchester Short Splint demonstrated less flexion contracture at the proximal interphalangeal joint compared to traditional dorsal splinting. This study presents the protocol for a randomized controlled trial comparing these approaches.

By Vivien Lees, Karen Redvers-Chubb, Roxana Moscalu, Mihaela Moscalu, Lauren Taylor

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Research Article

Gait Kinematics and Interlimb Symmetry in Individuals with Rett Syndrome Across Age Groups

Rett Syndrome Gait Kinematics Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Individuals with Rett Syndrome (RTT), a rare neurodevelopmental disorder, face significant deficits in bipedal postural control and walking ability. The present cross-sectional study examines whether specific gait parameters exhibit stable or varying patterns with advancing age.

By Dacia Martinez Diaz, Bernhard Suter, Charles S. Layne

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