Search

Introduction and purpose Idiopathic scoliosis is a three-dimensional, structural deformity (curvature) of the spine and torso, occurring in 1-3% of children, most commonly between the ages of 10 and 16 (often noted during adolescence and rapid growth). It is significantly more prevalent in girls, and its cause remains unknown. Untreated scoliosis typically progresses, leading to postural abnormalities, abnormal breathing patterns, pain syndromes, and a reduced quality of life for the patient. The aim of our study was to present scoliosis-specific exercises that can halt and potentially reverse the spinal curvature angle. Materials and methods The literature included in the PubMed databases is searched through the words such as scoliosis, idiopathic scoliosis, physiotherapy and exercises. Description of the state of knowledge: The literature review shows the breadth of the issue. Physiotherapeutic exercises specific to scoliosis is conducted for therapeutic objectives, with the aim of reducing deformity and slowing its advancement. Moreover, it seeks to maintain the achieved enhancement, ultimately striving to minimize reliance on corrective devices or surgical procedures. In each case, the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis involves the application of exercises based on specific physiotherapy methods for scoliosis, such as the Schroth Method, Lyon Method, and others. Exercises are individually tailored to the size and shape of the curvature as well as the patient’s capabilities. Their aim is three-dimensional correction of the deformity, stabilization of the corrected posture, and maintaining it during daily activities. Conclusions The objectives of physiotherapy include halting the progression of curvature during adolescence, preventing respiratory dysfunction, preventing and treating spinal pain syndromes, and importantly, improving aesthetics through postural correction.

Introduction According to the WHO, health includes mental and social well-being, not just the absence of disease. Mental disorders are common and burdensome, with primary treatments being antidepressants and antipsychotics. However, regular physical exercise improves mental well-being and helps prevent depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. Given the high prevalence of psychiatric disorders and their association with sedentary behavior and physical illnesses, promoting physical activity is crucial. Exercise reduces the risk of major diseases and enhances cognitive and physical health, including reducing depressive symptoms and increasing neural plasticity. Materials and methods The literature available in the PubMed database was searched using terms such as ‘’physical activity’’ in mental disorders. Results Physical activity (PA) effectively reduces symptoms and enhances cognitive functions in depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, and ADHD. Beneficial exercises include walking, jogging, strength training, and yoga. In schizophrenia, PA improves symptoms and cognitive functions, mitigates medication side effects, and enhances well-being. For bipolar disorder, PA reduces mood swings and aids long-term management. Anxiety disorders and ADHD also benefit from PA, with resistance training, yoga, aerobic exercise, and swimming reducing symptoms and improving cognitive functions. Conclusions Regular physical activity significantly benefits psychiatric disorders and should be included as a complementary therapy. Further studies are needed to optimize PA interventions for better mental health outcomes.

Introduction and purpose Lyme disease was identified in the 1970s. It is an anthropozoonosis caused by spirochetes from the Borrelia family. This disease is the most common one caused by pathogens transmitted by ticks. It can manifest in various ways and typically progresses through three phases, each of which can present characteristic symptoms of infection. However, it often progresses asymptomatically. Antibiotics are widely used in the treatment of various forms of Lyme disease and demonstrate satisfactory efficacy. However, the most important aspect is the prevention of infections through personal protection against exposure. The aim of the article is to summarize information on Lyme disease, its risk factors, diagnosis, clinical manifestations, and treatment. Materials and methods The literature available in the PubMed database is searched using terms such as Lyme borreliosis and Lyme disease. Results Lyme disease is a moderately understood condition. Its risk factors have been studied, allowing us to identify those particularly at risk. However, despite this, the condition often presents diagnostic challenges, requiring considerable experience from clinicians. The disease can manifest in various ways, and antibiotics are an effective therapy in most cases. Despite numerous scientific studies on Lyme disease, not all pathophysiological mechanisms have been elucidated. Additionally, there is an ongoing debate regarding the validity of post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS). Conclusions Research on Lyme disease continues to provide new information, from diagnostics and clinical manifestations to treatment. Knowledge about infections caused by genospecies of the Borrelia family is extensive. However, there are still areas that are less well understood.

Introduction and purpose Medications that have been available for many years are commonly used to treat various illnesses. However, nearly all of them can also have toxic effects on other organs, including the eyes, in addition to their therapeutic benefits. In this review, we discuss chosen drug-induced eye disorders, their specific clinical characteristics, and the mechanisms by which certain drugs can damage the ocular system. Isotretinoin and certain chemotherapy drugs are known to contribute to the development of dry eye syndrome. Atimalarial drugs, amiodarone, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and chlorpromazine cause the formation of corneal deposits. Prolonged use of glucocorticoids leads to the development of characteristic posterior subcapsular cataracts. The development of cataracts can also be caused by the use of antipsychotic medications. Paradoxically, drugs used topically to treat glaucoma or other eye diseases may trigger an acute attack of angle-closure glaucoma. Materials and methods The methodology for conducting literature search involved utilizing medical subject headings terms to explore PubMed. Search terms included: “drug-induced dry eye disease”, “drug-induced cataract”, “drug-induced glaucoma”, “drug-induced corneal damage”. Conclusions Educating patients about the potential ocular side effects of newly introduced treatment is crucial so that they can quickly consult an ophthalmologist if symptoms occur. Adjusting the dosage or discontinuing the drug may alleviate ocular symptoms, but these changes must be considered in light of the overall risk posed by the underlying disease. Every treatment should aim to offer the patient maximum benefits while minimizing any adverse impact on their quality of life.

Introduction and purpose Bruxism is a stereotypical motor disorder characterized by involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth during sleep or wakefulness. Bruxism affects 5-50% of children, and its frequency decreases with age. Bruxism is the most commonly occurring parasomnia, which in healthy individuals is a variant of physiology; however, when it leads to the development of associated pathologies such as dental abrasions, tooth loss, toothaches, headaches, or temporomandibular disorders, it is an indication for treatment. Materials and methods The literature included in the PubMed databases is searched through the words such as bruxism, temporomandibular disorder. Description of the state of knowledge In the diagnosis of bruxism, questionnaires filled out by patients and parents of children are most commonly used, although the most effective but less accessible diagnostic test is polysomnography. In the treatment of bruxism, pharmacotherapy, occlusal splints, and physiotherapy are used. Conclusions There is no gold standard for treating bruxism. There is still a need to search for other methods that would eliminate bruxism and prevent the development of associated pathologies.

Introduction and purpose Obesity is a complex, chronic disease that has recently reached epidemic proportions. According to the World Health Organization, the prevalence of this disease tripled since 1975, reaching 13% of the global population in 2016. A body mass index (BMI) > 30 kg/m² is typically the reference point for obesity in adults, and the mortality risk associated with obesity increases by 100% at BMI > 40 kg/ m² compared to individuals with normal body weight. The aim of the article is to present the benefits of bariatric surgery, encompassing not only weight loss but also a range of other advantages for obese patients undergoing the procedure. Materials and methods The literature included in the PubMed databases is searched through the words such as obesity, bariatric surgery. Description of the state of knowledge: The literature review shows the breadth of the issue. Obesity constitutes a public health crisis and a significant risk factor for many diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, and numerous others. Since in most cases, lifestyle optimization and low-calorie diet alone are not sufficient, pharmacological interventions as well as surgical interventions are often necessary. Bariatric surgery remains the most effective treatment option, as it has been demonstrated to not only reduce body weight but also decrease mortality from cardiovascular diseases and extend overall life expectancy. Conclusions The benefits, complications, and selection of the best surgical method for treating obesity are still under investigation. However, research demonstrates the long-term effectiveness of bariatric surgery in weight loss and the remission of comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, as well as in preventing obesity-related cancers.

Introduction and purpose In recent years, there has been notable progress in the role of light-emitting technologies, including lasers and other energy-based devices, across various medical disciplines. Dermatology stands out as one of the prominent fields where laser treatments have gained significant popularity. In the clinical setting, a variety of laser types are utilized. A fundamental aspect of ensuring the safe use of laser devices involves comprehending their mechanisms at the tissue level. This knowledge enables practitioners to attain the desired outcomes effectively while minimizing the risk of complications. Lasers have demonstrated effectiveness in treating cutaneous vascular conditions because of their capacity to selectively target intravascular oxyhemoglobin. Rosacea, juvenile hemangioma, and port wine stains are among the vascular skin conditions for which laser therapy has shown notable success. Laser therapy is employed in treating hypertrophic scars, keloids, and acne scars because it facilitates the restructuring of the skin's architecture at the scar site, with the goal of minimizing its size and visibility. Laser therapy stands as the gold standard for removing tattoos. Materials and methods The methodology for conducting literature search involved utilizing medical subject headings terms to explore PubMed. Search terms included: “lasers”, “intense pulsed light”, “dermatology”, “rosacea”, “acne”, “scars”, “tattoo removal”. Conclusions Laser dermatological treatments are gaining popularity worldwide, driving new innovations and clinical applications. This review highlights the significant role and diverse clinical applications of lasers and intense pulsed light in dermatological practice. Improving the quality of skin in patients suffering from skin diseases can significantly increase their quality of life.

Arnold Chiari syndrome, also known as Chiari malformation, is a group of deformations of the posterior cranial fossa and hindbrain, consisting in the lowering of the cerebellum or its tonsils towards the occipital foramen. This leads to a reduction in the volume reserve within the foramen magnum, pressure on surrounding structures and obstruction of the flow of cerebrospinal fluid. The process is most often asymptomatic. Symptoms include headaches, neck pain, but also fainting, sinus bradycardia, coordination disorders and many others. Chiari malformation is often diagnosed incidentally. The basis of diagnosis is the detection of characteristic morphological features in magnetic resonance imaging. Surgical treatment is successfully used among patients with severe Arnold-Chiari syndrome and progression of clinical symptoms. Materials and methods Literature included in the PubMed, BioMed Central and Polish Medical Platform databases searched by means of the words such as Gamma Knife, CyberKnife, radiosurgery, stereotactic radiotherapy. Sources quoted in selected works were also used. Summary Arnold-Chiari malformation is often discovered incidentally. If the features observed on MRI suggest the above diagnosis, the patient should be referred to a neurologist. After excluding other possible causes of the imaged morphological features and performing a dedicated magnetic resonance imaging examination, the neurosurgeon decides whether to qualify for the procedure. In a selected group of patients, significant improvement can be expected after surgical treatment.

Introduction and purpose Botulinum toxin has been used in medicine since the 1970s, although many years earlier it was known only as a biological weapon. Originally, it was used in medicine to treat strabismus in children. Over time, it has been used in the treatment of neurological disorders, excessive sweating of the armpits, wrinkles, and bladder disorders. In recent years, botulinum toxin has also begun to be used in wound healing. The paralyzing effect of botulinum toxin on the muscles within the wound eliminates micro-injuries caused by tension in these muscles. The aim of the article is to summarize information on the effects of botulinum toxin on the wound, its impact on inflammation, and the type of scar formation. Materials and methods The literature included in the PubMed databases is searched through the words such as botulinum toxin, wounds, and scars. Description of the state of knowledge: The literature review shows the breadth of the issue. Scientific studies showing the effect of using botulinum toxin on wounds emphasize its beneficial effects. However, it should be remembered that wound healing has a complex, dynamic course supported by numerous cellular processes that must be closely coordinated to effectively repair damaged tissues. Determinants influencing the course of wound healing include both local and systemic factors. Important factors influencing the process of proper wound healing are specialized wound preparation, pharmacotherapy, and other aspects of therapeutic intervention. Conclusions The range of applications of botulinum toxin is constantly expanding. In addition to reducing muscle tension within the wound, it also inhibits the production of inflammatory transmitters, limiting its development, and also reduces the development of microcirculation by preventing the development of vessels in hypertrophic scars.

Introduction and purpose Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy represents a technology designed to enhance tissue repair by locally administering one's own bioactive agents, aiming to influence physiological processes like inflammation, angiogenesis, and extracellular matrix synthesis. Recently, the use of PRP therapy has become a subject of discussion in the orthopedic field. This review comprehensively examines the mechanisms, contemporary applications, clinical evidence, safety aspects, and potential future advancements of PRP in orthopedic treatment. Research has documented the efficacy of PRP injections in achieving full regeneration and enabling a comeback to competitive sports. PRP injections could serve as a viable alternative treatment for individuals with lateral tendonitis when compared to surgery. Further research investigating the impact of PRP on the bone healing process following a fracture is warranted. Materials and methods The methodology for conducting literature search involved utilizing medical subject headings terms to explore PubMed. Search terms included: "plasma-rich therapy", "tendinopathy", "injury" " articular cartilage ", "bone fracture " Conclusions Research at different evidence levels has shown that PRP is safe and has beneficial effects in above uses. Due to the autologous nature of the therapy, side effects are minimal. In the majority of cases, PRP therapy alleviates pain sensations in both short- and long-term observations, facilitating a faster return to daily functionality. However, additional randomized, controlled clinical trials are anticipated to be conducted in the future. Progressing further necessitates the standardization of methods for preparing plasma and procedures for its application.