Chapters authored
Pelvic Floor Muscle Activity in Relation to Body Position and Breath
The aim of this work was to analyse pelvic floor muscle activity by intravaginal perineometry. We focused on the increase caused by phasic muscular activity, which, on a short term basis, rises above the basal tonic activity. The functional relationships to postural and respiratory function have been confirmed by only a few studies. Therefore, we monitored this functional connection. We confirmed a statistically significant increase in pelvic floor muscle activity at deep breathing compared to calm breathing (in other words at different breathing intensity) in the same position (lying, standing). Our measurements also showed that the phasic activity of pelvic floor muscles in deep breathing is statistically significantly higher than activity after a minute-long run on the treadmill. Cough is a specific situation, whose short-term increase in pelvic floor muscle activity clearly exceeds all other monitored situations.
Part of the book: Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Possibility of Using a VR System as an Action Observation Therapeutical Technique
In recent years, 3D virtual reality (VR) systems are increasingly finding their way into biomedical applications. Nevertheless, in most cases a 3D VR is being used as an interactive system (such as Xbox Kinect or Playstation VR). These interactive systems, however effective they may have proven, not only limit use of 3D VR in patients incapable to engage in these systems due to their physical or mental disability, but also put significant requirements on medical institutions for an equipment, medical personal, and therefore institutional budget. In this article, we are proposing a 3D VR as an stand-alone action observation training device, which could limit requirements associated with abovementioned interactive systems due to its capability to stimulate a mirror neuron system of human brain, while adding minimal demands on both patient and medical facility. Research studies that confirm activity in the motor cortex will be described. We focus on the literature that describes theories, models, and experimental studies dealing with the effects of motion observations that are involved in the control and final performance of motor skills.
Part of the book: Neurorehabilitation and Physical Therapy