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In order to determine the impact of a four-week cycle of Nordic Walking (NW) training on the physical fitness of people with chronic non-specific lower back pain and the impact of this form of activity on their self-assessment of health quality, the study included 80 men and women aged 29 to 63 years. The subjects were divided into two equal (40-person) groups: experimental and control. In both study groups the degree of disability in daily activities caused by back pain was assessed with the FFb-H-R questionnaire, the physical fitness was evaluated with the modified Fullerton test and the sense of health quality was assessed with the SF-36 questionnaire. The same tests were repeated after four weeks. In the experimental group NW training was applied between the two studies. During four weeks, 10 training units were carried out, and each training session lasted 60 min with a two-day break between each training. The four-week NW training resulted in a statistically significant sense of disability due to back pain (p < 0.001), significant improvement of physical fitness expressed by improvement in upper (p < 0.001) and lower (p < 0.01) body strength, upper and lower body flexibility (p < 0.001) and ability to walk a longer distance in a 6-min walk test (p < 0.001). The training participants also showed significant improvements in health quality in both physical (p < 0.001) and mental (p < 0.001) components. The four-week NW training has a positive impact on the physical fitness of men and women with chronic lower back pain. Participation in NW training also contributes to a significant reduction in the sense of disability caused by back pain and improvement in the self-assessment of health quality.

Objectives: The objective of the study was to assess correlations between practising sports at an elite level at a young age, and the current physical activity level, selected sociometric features and the severity of menopausal symptoms in women during perimenopause, which will contribute to the knowledge about undertaking sports activity. Material and methods: The study involved a total of 334 females aged 45–65. They were purposefully assigned to both a study and control group. The study group included 148 women — former elite athletes qualified based on the presumed criteria. The control group consisted of 154 women who did not meet the criterion of practising sports activity earlier in life. In order to conduct the study, we applied the method of a diagnostic survey. The outcome measure was a survey questionnaire and contained questions concerning sociometric features, some elements of gynaecological history, and physical activity undertaken in the past. The second part used the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and Blatt-Kupperman Menopausal Index. Results: The groups were homogenous in terms of age and BMI. The former athletes most frequently used to practise athletics, team games and swimming. Both groups displayed no differences regarding the age at menarche, the onset of sexual activity, and the presence and regularity of menstruation. The former athletes had fewer children compared to the controls. They manifested a higher level of physical activity in particular areas and intensity categories. The comparison between the two groups did not show statistically significant differences in the severity of menopausal symptoms. Conclusions: Sports training in the past differentiates selected sociometric features such as economic activity and a numerous pregnancies and births. Sports training in the past has an impact on the current level of physical activity — the females who used to train present its higher level. Sports training in the past does not differentiate the severity of menopausal symptoms.

The article presents the process of eating, and then describes dysphagia: its causes, classification and symptoms. The authors presented in the article selected diseases with which dysphagia coexists. The aim of the text is to indicate activities that can be used by caregivers of people with dysphagia in their daily care and therapy. W artykule przedstawiono proces jedzenia, a następnie dokonano opisu dysfagii: jej przyczyn, klasyfikacji oraz objawów. Autorzy ukazali wybrane schorzenia, z którymi dysfagia współwystępuje. Celem tekstu jest wskazanie czynności, które mogą być wykorzystywane przez opiekunów osób z dysfagią w codziennej pielęgnacji i terapii.

Introduction The importance of the problem of reduced motor activity in the prophylaxis and treatment of many diseases has resulted in numerous adaptations of a diagnostic tool, both for the disease and for linguistic and cultural versions. This also applies to cardiovascular diseases. The significance of the problem, and encouraging results of several studies, have led to a wider use of this tool. This also applies to people suffering cardiologically in Poland, where this problem is poorly understood. This was the inspiration to undertake research on the explanation of the reasons for the limitation in the activation of cardiac patients. Objective The aim of the study was to determine the level of kinesiophobia in patients with CAD, and to assess its possible association with physical activity (PA), socio-demographic determinants and morbidity. Material and methods The study was cross-sectional and included 217 hospitalized patients with CAD: 94 women and 123 men; aged 67.39 years. PA was assessed using the short version of IPAQ, and kinesiophobia was assessed using TSK Heart in Polish adaptation. TSK HeartIPAQ correlations were found. Results More than 70% of the patients revealed high levels of kinesiophobia (TSK>37 points). There were no TSK associations with gender, BMI, socio-demographic variables, other conditions and duration of cardiovascular disease. The disease is the main cause of kinesiophobia and regardless of its nature, negatively affects the level of PA. Conclusions The quality of life of patients with CAD at various stages and the effectiveness of cardiolog-ical rehabilitation are conditioned by PA.

Background and Objectives: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common chronic demyelinating disease. Factors that reduce the occurrence of symptoms include physical activity (PA). However, the data indicate that PA levels among people with MS are lower than those of healthy peers. The cause may be kinesiophobia. The aim of the study was to determine the level of kinesiophobia among people with MS and its relationship with age, disease duration, functional status, PA, and degree of acceptance of the disease. Materials and Methods: Eighty people aged 35–69 were examined: 60 women (75%) and 20 men (25%). The Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) was used to determine the level of disability (median: 3.50; min–max: 1–6). The research questionnaire consisted of a metric section, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain, Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK), Acceptance of Illness Scale (AIS), and Modified Baecke Questionnaire for Older Adults for physical activity. Results: Of the respondents, 52.50% were characterized by a high level of kinesiophobia (>37 points). Correlation analysis: TSK and PA showed the following: r = −0.363 (p = 0.001). Regression explains kinesiophobia in 44% (R2 = 0.4364; p < 0.0000). The predictors of TSK were as follows: disability level: p < 0.01, ß = 0.33; disease acceptance: p < 0.01, ß = −0.34; PA: p < 0.05, ß < −0.05. Conclusions: The problem of kinesiophobia is significant in MS patients, and its predictors are the functional status of the patients, low degree of acceptance of the disease, and low level of physical activity. The age and duration of the disease do not determine the problem of fear of movement.

Adolescence is a crucial stage in the biological, psychological, and social development of humans. During this period, perceptions of one’s body and behaviors are formed. The aim of the study was to investigate body image (BI) and its relationship with physical activity and selected eating habits in adolescents. The study included 312 people (102 girls (32.69%) and 210 boys (67.31%)) aged 15–18. As many as 40% of the girls and 27% of the boys reported feeling dissatisfied with their body mass. BI was negatively perceived by the adolescents, with girls being more critical than boys. Lack of acceptance of one’s body mass negatively affects overall BI in girls, and only the functional aspects in boys. Negative perception of body mass in girls does not motivate them to increase physical activity but rather causes them to adopt dietary restrictions.

Introduction The most commonly occurring diseases among the elderly people are cardiovascular system ones and among them the coronary artery disease (CAD). It is considered that the age and insufficient level of physical activity (PA) are the crucial risk factors of CAD. The key barrier which prevents elderly people from undertaking physical activity may be the fear of activity, called kinesiophobia. Aim The aim of this project was to examine the frequency of kinesiophobia among Polish elderly patients with CAD and its potential conditions: sex, age, CAD duration, other diseases and chosen socio-demographic variables. Reference and methods There have been 135 people examined: 59 women and 76 men in the 65-88 age range (average =71.88 years, SD=4.82). They were people diagnosed with stable CAD. The questionnaire form which was used collected information concerning the socio-demographical and physical activity data. And for kinesiophobia, there was Tampa Scale used, which is dedicated to examine cardiac patients - TSK heart. Results Over 76% of examined patients had a high level of kinesiophobia (TSK>37 pt). Sex, age, BMI, CAD duration and the number of other diseases did not have any connection with neither PA nor TSK. Education was the only one, among the socio-demographic variables, which differentiated the kinesiophobia. Better educated people had a lower level of it. Conclusion Kinesiophobia is a common problem among the elderly people suffering from CAD. It is caused by a lack of physical activity which adversely predicts the progression of the disease. People with higher education are more rarely affected by kinesiophobia. CAD patients should be provided with knowledge and training concerning PA and there should be conditions created to enhance it.

A commonly used physiotherapeutic method for the treatment of urinary incontinence (UI) after radical prostatectomy (RP) is pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of PFMT by enhanced biofeedback using the 1h pad-weighing test. The following factors were taken into consideration in the analysis of PFMT effectiveness: the relevance of the patients’ age, time from RP, BMI, mental health, functional state, and depression. A total of 60 post-RP patients who underwent 10-week PFMT were studied. They were divided into groups: A (n = 20) and B (n = 20) (random division, time from RP: 2–6 weeks) and group C (time from RP > 6 weeks). Group B had enhanced training using EMG biofeedback. UI improved in all groups: A, p = 0.0000; B, p = 0.0000; and C, p = 0.0001. After the completion of PFMT, complete control over miction was achieved by 60% of the patients in group A, 85% in group B, and 45% in group C. There was no correlation between the results of PFMT efficacy and patients’ age, BMI, time from RP, mental health, functional state, and depression. PFMT is highly effective in UI treatment. The enhancement of PFMT by EMG biofeedback seems to increase the effectiveness of the therapy.

Reduced physical activity or inappropriate training can cause the development of postural abnormalities. The aim of the present study was to determine the relationship between intensive, controlled physical activity, such as karate, and postural parameters. The study group consisted of 57 young karate competitors aged 9–12 years. The control group included 76 healthy, active children in similar age. The children’s posture, activity level, and time in front of electronic devices were evaluated. The following body posture assessments were carried out: Adams’ test, evaluation of the plumb line, evaluation of the kyphosis, and lordosis angles using a digital inclinometer and shoulder blade position measurements using a pediscoliometer. In the majority of cases, despite evidence of an increase or decrease in the values of the plumb line and scapulae level, the results were still within the normal ranges. In 71.93% of the examined karate-training children, a decrease in torso rotation was noted. The study revealed a visible difference in postural muscle strength by the Mathiass screening test ( P < 0.00001 ). The children in the control group spent more time in front electronic devices than the karate-training children did ( P < 0.007 ). Postural defects regression was more often observed in the study group than in the controls ( P < 10 − 8 ). The frequency of postural defects stabilization was also significantly higher in the study group than in the control children ( P = 0.001 ). Conversely, postural defects progression was significantly more frequent in the control group than in young karate competitors ( P < 10 − 8 ). These differences remained significant in subgroups of girls and boys. Physical activity performed regularly and under the direction of a professional trainer can prevent postural disorders.

INTRODUCTION Back pain diseases are among frequently reported health problems. Unfortunately, more often this problem also affects young people, high school students. Lifestyle that people are representing nowadays has a negative impact on their spine. Development of technology and transportation eliminates daily basic physical activity such as taking a walk to the school. Prolonged and inappropriate sitting posture during classes and using the computer at home are predisposing factors for back pain occurrence. PURPOSE The aim of this paper was to analyze the frequency of back pain occurrence among high school youth and attempt to relate their occurrence frequency with sex, time spent in sitting position, anthropometric parameters and physical activity of examined students. MATERIAL AND METHODS The examined group initially counted 272 teenagers, but ultimately 218 were taken into account for the analysis and 54 questionnaires were filled in incorrectly and rejected. All of them were high school students. Customized survey consisting of general part and closed questions regarding physical activity (Subjective Experience of Work Load - SEWL) was used as an examination tool. RESULTS Examined youth spent on average 10.04 hours daily in a sitting position. As much as 195 (89.45%) of examined teenagers declared to experience back pain at least once in their lives. The most of teenagers (117; 53.67%) indicated lumbar spine pain. Girls more often felt spine pain issues in comparison to boys. Short stature of teenagers was often related to back pain occurrence. No correlation between time spent in sitting position and frequency of skeleton axis pain occurrence was noted. Among group of boys a relation between more frequent physical activity and less often spine pain occurrence was observed. CONCLUSIONS 1. Spine pain is an important health problem of examined youth, occurring more frequent among girls than boys. 2. Body height correlate negatively with frequency of spine pain occurrence among youth. 3. Despite spending more than 10 hours daily in sitting position by examined youth, it didn't affect the frequency of back pain issues occurrence. 4. Higher physical activity of examined boys was related to less often back pains.

IntroductionRegular physical activity (PA) is a recognized factor stimulating bone formation. In recent years, osteocytes have been shown to be involved in the metabolism of bone tissue in addition to osteoblasts and osteoclasts. The aim of the study was to analyze the effects of regular fitness training, sex hormones, and selected bone turnover markers on sclerostin levels in young women.Material and methodsThe cross-sectional study involved 78 women including 39 who regularly engaged in fitness training (for one hour three times a week for three months) and 39 leading a sedentary lifestyle. Anthropometric measurements and glucose, lipids, insulin, estradiol, testosterone, free testosterone, androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), vitamin D, osteocalcin, β isomer of C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (β-CTx) and sclerostin levels were measured.ResultsActivity of women (study group) who were on a high level of PA ranged between 2262 and 6606 MET/min/week (mean, 3843.16; SD = 1230). All of the control group were on low level of PA (198-1617 MET/min/week; mean, 841.06; SD = 302.01). Significantly higher levels of iPTH and β-CTx were observed in the study than in the control group (p 0.12), osteocalcin (p > 0.23), or sclerostin levels (p > 0.37) between groups. There were significant negative correlations between log10 sclerostin and log10 DHEA levels (r = –0.24; p ConclusionsOur results show that regular fitness training, sex hormones, vitamin D, iPTH, β-CTx, and osteocalcin did not influence circulating sclerostin levels in young women.

Background and objectives: Recommendations for the control of stable patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) related to an adequate level of physical activity (PA). Practical experience shows that the PA level in most people with CAD is definitely too low in relation to the guidelines. The cause may be psychological factors and among them the fear of movement&mdash, kinesiophobia. The aim of this project was to examine the evaluation of psychometric features of the Polish version of the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia Heart (TSK Heart), used in people with CAD. Materials and methods: The study involved 287 patients with stable CAD: 112 women and 175 men. Age: 63.50 (SD = 11.49) years. Kinesiophobia was assessed using TSK Heart, physical activity (PA)&mdash, using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), and anxiety and depression was examined using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). The structure of TSK was examined using principal component analysis (PCA), internal cohesion (Cronbach&rsquo, s alpha, AC), and content validity was calculated by linear regression. Results: PCA showed a three-factor TSK structure. One-dimensionality and satisfactory reliability were found: TSK Heart: AC = 0.878. Kinesiophobia as a predictor of PA: R2 = 0.162 (p = 0.000000). Anxiety and depression&mdash, TSK: R2 = 0.093 (p = 0.00000). Conclusions: The Polish version of TSK Heart for cardiac patients is characterized by good psychometric features. The use of it can improve the cooperation of rehabilitation teams for patients with CAD.

The main arguments in support of researching anxiety and depression in patients with chronic somatic diseases are the prevalence of affective disorders in the population, somatic conditions as risk factors of affective disorders and the search for effective preventative and therapeutic strategies. The aim of the study was to determine the association between the functional status, selected sociodemographic characteristics and prevalence as well as severity of anxiety and depression in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson&rsquo, s disease (PD) and history of stroke (S). Material and methods: Eighty participants (44 women and 36 men) with MS (n = 22), PD (n = 31) and history of stroke (n = 27) were enrolled. All participants completed a questionnaire consisting of metrics, the Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Results: Fifty-five per cent of all participants did not present with anxiety or depression, 20% scored above the diagnostic threshold on the anxiety scale and 26% scored above the diagnostic threshold on the depression scale. Subgroup analysis revealed that anxiety and depression sufferers were 13.64% and 13.64% of MS patients, respectively, 22.58% and 35.48% of PD patients, respectively, and 22.22% and 25.93% of stroke survivors, respectively. There was a significant correlation between depression and independence level in the entire group and between depression and marital status in stroke survivors. Conclusions: Although depression and anxiety are highly prevalent in patients with neurological conditions, the disorder has a very individual nature and is not associated with the patient&rsquo, s age, duration of a condition or concomitant diseases. Screening for depression and anxiety as a part of comprehensive approach may increase treatment efficacy in neurological patients

The aim of the article is to investigate the passive stiffness (PS) of rectus femoris and hamstring muscles working for the knee joint in persons after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery.Thirty subjects (8 women and 22 men) aged 19-46 (x = 28.2 ± 7) participated in the investigation; an experimental group comprised 15 persons (4 women and 11 men) who underwent ACL reconstruction surgery. The other persons had no knee injury and described themselves as healthy. All the subjects underwent an investigation of the PS of the hamstrings and the rectus femoris on the injured as well as on the healthy leg.The data shows vital difference in the PS of the hamstring muscles between the healthy and injured limb (p 0.05), a significant difference in the PS of the rectus femoris (p 0.001) was noted. Furthermore, the PS level of the hamstring muscles of the operated limb in the experimental group is significantly different to the both legs in control group (p 0.001).Injury of the ACL results in a considerable increase in passive stiffness of the hamstring and rectus femoris muscles in both the injured leg and the healthy leg.

BACKGROUND Movement and physical activity are the natural needs of a living human. Sedentary lifestyle resulting from the development of car communication, improper nutrition, abuse of drugs and addictive substances, constant rush and stress consequently cause destructive health effects. The aim of the study was to analyze risky behaviors among adolescents in the Silesian Voivodeship, taking into account their resistance to stress and physical activity. METHODS 211 people were examined (100%). Among them were 122 girls (57.82%) and 89 boys (42.18%) between 16 and 18 years of age (x = 17,3, SD = 0.53). The participants were students from upper secondary schools in the Silesian Voivodeship. The research tool was an original questionnaire consisting of a metric part, closed questions related to the examined problem and a standardized questionnaire of physical activity (SEWL Subjective Experience of Work Load). RESULTS Most of the girls (47, 38.52%) considered themselves to be medically resistant to stress, while boys (30, 33.71%) were of the opinion that they were rather resistant to stress. On the other hand, there was no correlation between susceptibility to stress of adolescents in relation to age. From the whole group, up to 203 people (96.21%) have already drunk alcohol. Among them were 117 girls (95.90%) and 86 boys (96.63%). The first cigarette from the studied group of teenagers was ignited by 137 people (64.93%), including 80 girls (65.57%) and 57 boys (64.04%), while psychoactive substances have been already taken by 51 participants (24.17%). Among them were 23 girls (18.85%) and 28 boys (31.46%). There was no correlation between the selfesteem of susceptibility to stress and the use of stimulants in both boys and girls. The average value of the sport index among girls was 2.75, while among boys - 6.37. CONCLUSIONS 1. Boys in comparison to girls considered themselves more resistant to stress, while the age in both sexes did not affect selfassessment of vulnerability to stress. 2. Gender of the adolescents did not affect the frequency of stimulants use.

Background: Staying at home for long periods and limiting various types of activities and social contacts due to the COVID-19 pandemic may have negative consequences for health. This is especially true for people suffering from chronic diseases, in whom an appropriate level of activity and social contacts delay the progress of the disease. This group includes people diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease—PD. Aim: It was decided to investigate the effect of COVID-19 isolation related to self-assessment of physical fitness, physical activity, and the level of anxiety and depression in people with PD. Methods: The study included 30 patients diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. We compared the results of the pre-pandemic questionnaire and the telephone interview with the same questions—after the period of isolation due to COVID-19. The questionnaire included questions about physical activity and fitness self-assessment. The level of affective disorders was tested using HADS. Results: There was a statistically significant decrease in the physical activity of the respondents after isolation related to COVID-19 (p &lt, 0.05). Self-assessment of physical fitness also decreased, but the differences were not statistically significant. In the post-isolation study, only 50% of the respondents had normative values for anxiety and only 40% for depression. The analysis showed that the level of physical activity—the independent variable, explains anxiety in 30% and depression in 27%. Conclusions: Pandemic isolation has significantly reduced physical activity in PD patients. There was a certain drop in the self-esteem of physical fitness in these people. Physical fitness is an important predictor of preventing the affective disorders of anxiety and depression. The effects of isolation due to COVID-19 require further research.

The role of occupational therapy in acquiring employment To be satisfied with their life, people with disabilities need to fully participate in social life. By providing comprehensive rehabilitation, occupational therapy gives them an opportunity to choose their path in life and make decisions about their life - thanks to their being able to work, among other things. The authors present conditions necessary for people with disabilities to become capable of working that need to be included in therapy. They distinguish five stages of acquiring vocational skills and competence. These are: current analysis of mental and physical abilities, assessment of vocational potential, preparation for work, workplace accommodation and the final outcome - employment. They present outlines of procedures oriented at learning a trade by people with psychomotor disabilities, their vocational potential and conditions for working. Independence at work is closely related to the clinical condition of the person in therapy. It is not always possible to develop full competence; however, an optimal level should be aimed at that is appropriate to the current physical and mental abilities of a person with disability.

Background: Physiotherapy is an integral part of medicine, both in terms of prevention and treatment. Despite the long history of healing with movement and other physical factors, physiotherapy is considered to be a young field of medicine, and the occupation of the physiotherapist in the social consciousness is in the building phase. The aim of the study was to investigate the interest in physiotherapist Material/Methods: The study involved 199 people, including 117 women (58.79%) and 82 men (41.21%), residents of the Silesian Voivodship. Age of respondents: 16-81 years (x = 46.22, SD = 13.45). The research tool was an original questionnaire. Closed questions concerned the interest in physiotherapist profession, self-assessment of knowledge and its sources, opinions on the availability and quality of services, and the social prestige and profitability of the physiotherapist profession. Results: Respondents most often declared that their interest in the profession is poor or average, but they evaluate their level of knowledge of the profession as high. The prevailing opinions are that the availability of physiotherapist services is large, but at patients own expense, and the cost-effectiveness of the profession is average. Women revealed greater interest and declared more knowledge of the profession than men. Differences also concerned the opinions on the profitability of the profession. Conclusions: The public interest in physiotherapist profession is on an average level, positive opinions about physiotherapists prevail, especially among older people. The profession is considered to be averagely profitable.

WstępWystępowanie dolegliwości bólowych kręgosłupa u ratowników medycznych jest związane m.in. z obciążeniem pracą zawodową, jej rodzajem, czasem trwania i monotypią ruchową. Stres dodatkowo może potęgować te dolegliwości poprzez wzmożenie napięcia tkanek miękkich. Nierzadko przeciążenia powstają ze strony sił ścinających statycznego przyjmowania wymuszonych pozycji, a także dynamicznych obciążeń podczas przenoszenia chorych i poszkodowanych osób.Cel pracyCelem pracy była ocena wpływu pracy zawodowej na występowanie dolegliwości bólowych kręgosłupa u ratowników medycznych.Materiał i metodyBadaniami objęto 89 mężczyzn w wieku od 20 do 45 lat (x = 29,30 ± 4,56) czynnie wykonujących zawód ratownika medycznego. Badanych podzielono na dwie grupy w zależności od stażu pracy – grupę pracujących do 5 lat oraz powyżej. Do badań użyto autorskiego kwestionariusza ankiety oraz skali VAS.WynikiRatownicy z mniejszym stażem pracy częściej wskazywali na dolegliwości bólowe, a ich intensywność była wprost proporcjonalna do stażu pracy. W obu grupach wiek nie miał wpływu na występowanie tych dolegliwości (p > 0,05). Ból kręgosłupa rzutował na codzienną pracę, efektywność wykonywanych czynności oraz nastrój badanych.WnioskiWystępowanie i nasilenie dolegliwości bólowych kręgosłupa u ratowników medycznych narasta w pierwszych kilku latach ich pracy zawodowej. Ból kręgosłupa ma wpływ na wykonywane przez nich czynności życia codziennego.

Background: The process of population aging inclines to seek determinants of the quality of life in the older people. Health self–assessment is the one of the main elements of the quality of life. In the older people it is associated with functional efficiency. The aim of the study was to determine correlations of physical fitness and health self-assessment. Methods: The study group included 123 people aged 60 to 86 years. Physical fitness was evaluated using the Senior Fitness Test (SFT). Self-esteem of health was assessed by the SF-36 questionnaire. Results: The analysis included sex factor and the occurrence of chronic diseases. When comparing with healthy participants, people suffering from chronic diseases revealed a lower level of physical fitness (P

Wstęp i cel pracy. Adolescencja jest etapem wielu zmian w życiu człowieka. Wiek dojrzewania cechuje się nie tylko rozwojem sfery fizycznej, ale również emocjonalnej. Kreują się wtedy poglądy dotyczące własnego ciała, rówieśników oraz zachowań względem różnych sytuacji. Celem pracy była analiza zainteresowania masą ciała i jej kontrola przez młodzież szkół ponadpodstawowych na Śląsku. Materiał i metody. Przebadano 519 osób (100%): 207 dziewcząt (39,88%) i 317 chłopców (60,12%) w wieku od 12 do 20 lat (x=15,64; SD=1,87). Badanymi byli uczniowie szkół ponadpodstawowych na terenie województwa śląskiego. Narzędziem badawczym była autorska ankieta, składająca się z części ogólnej i zamkniętych pytań dotyczących badanego problemu. Wyniki. Ponad 1/3 badanych dziewcząt (70; 33,82%) i chłopców (125; 39,74%) kontrolowała swoją masę ciała w ciągu ostatniego tygodnia. Swoją masę ciała za prawidłową uważało 85 badanych uczennic (41,06%) i 140 uczniów (44,16%). Akceptację swojej masy ciała wyraziło 72 dziewcząt (34,78%) i 119 chłopców (37,54%). Duża część badanej młodzieży (100; 48,31% dziewcząt i 148; 46,67% chłopców) nie spotkała się z negatywnymi uwagami na temat swojego wyglądu. Wnioski. 1. Badana grupa młodzieży akceptowała swoją masę ciała. 2. Płeć, wiek oraz parametry morfologiczne nie miały wpływu na częstość kontroli masy ciała u badanej młodzieży 3. Złośliwe uwagi na temat swojej sylwetki i masy ciała oraz rówieśników nie stanowiły problemu w badanej grupie młodzieży.

Introduction The most commonly occurring diseases among the elderly people are cardiovascular system ones and among them the coronary artery disease (CAD). It is considered that the age and insufficient level of physical activity (PA) are the crucial risk factors of CAD. The key barrier which prevents elderly people from undertaking physical activity may be the fear of activity, called kinesiophobia. Aim The aim of this project was to examine the frequency of kinesiophobia among Polish elderly patients with CAD and its potential conditions: sex, age, CAD duration, other diseases and chosen socio-demographic variables. Reference and methods There have been 135 people examined: 59 women and 76 men in the 65–88 age range (average =71.88 years, SD=4.82). They were people diagnosed with stable CAD. The questionnaire form which was used collected information concerning the socio-demographical and physical activity data. And for kinesiophobia, there was Tampa Scale used, which is dedicated to examine cardiac patients – TSK heart. Results Over 76% of examined patients had a high level of kinesiophobia (TSK>37 pt). Sex, age, BMI, CAD duration and the number of other diseases did not have any connection with neither PA nor TSK. Education was the only one, among the socio-demographic variables, which differentiated the kinesiophobia. Better educated people had a lower level of it. Conclusion Kinesiophobia is a common problem among the elderly people suffering from CAD. It is caused by a lack of physical activity which adversely predicts the progression of the disease. People with higher education are more rarely affected by kinesiophobia. CAD patients should be provided with knowledge and training concerning PA and there should be conditions created to enhance it.

Supplementation is one of the forms of powerlifting training support. It may have an influence on physical parameters of the contenders and may also have an impact on perception of the body and self – esteem. The aim of the study was to assess relationships between age, BMI, data concerning training, supplementation, self – assurance and body value among the contenders practising powerlifting.51 people who regularly practise powerlifting: 11 women aged 23.5 ±3.6 and 40 men aged 23.9 ±8.5 have been examined using self – esteem (SES) and body – esteem (BES) questionnaires. Data concerning age, BMI, training variables and supplementation have been also gathered.Supplementation is used by 91% of women and 85% of men. Men use more types of supplements than women (p < 0.05). Among women SES does not correlate with any other variables. Among men SES negatively correlates with the number of used supplements, as well as with all of the BES domains.Using supplementation among people who train powerlifting is rather common. Among women, SES in not related in any way with training or supplementation. Among men, lower self – esteem (SES) is significantly counterbalanced with BES.

Background: Stroke (S), multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease (PD) are chronic neurological diseases that are a challange for public health and represent a real social problem. Physical activity (PA) improves functional performance, reduces various symptoms in PD and MS, in stroke- reduced neurological impairment of patients and provides a chance for independence. One of the main obstacles in successful rehabilitation is patients’ movement passivity. The reason might be the psychological aspects, in particular fear of movement—kinesiophobia. Aim: To determine how many patients with S, MS, and PD suffer from kinsiophobia and what factors influence this process. Methods: Fifty patients after stroke, eighty one MS patients and sixty one PD patients were consecutively recruited from hospital and outpatients clinics. The sociodemographic data, self- assesment of fitness, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain, Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK) and The Modified Baecke Questionnarie for Older Adults for physical activity were collected. A score &gt, 37 was considered to indicate a high level of kinesiophobia according to the TSK. Results: High level of kinesiophobia was shown in 66.67% of the subjects. TSK medians in particular illnesses were above the cut-off score and amounted: S—42.50 points, MS—38 points, PD—42.00 points. Regression showed 15% of fluctuation of variance (R2 = 0.1498, p &lt, 0.0001), where regression factor showed: for mobility self-assessment: b = −0.2137 and for the age b = 0.0065. Conclusions: Kinesiophobia among the patients suffering from S, MS and PD concerns most of the subjects. Predictors of kinesiophobia are: limitations connected with functioning and age. The meaning of kinesiophobia in neurological disorders requires further research.

Atopic eczema (or atopic dermatitis, AD) has a great impact on the quality of life of the affected person as well as the whole family. Hospitalization may be required during exacerbations of the disease. Basic skin care is just as important as pharmacological treatment during acute and chronic stage. Everyday use of emollients is recommended to avoid the recurrence of the disease. In certain cases dietary interventions such as food elimination may be beneficial. Education about the condition should be provided by well educated medical staff both for caregivers and patients. In this paper we discuss educational and dietary standards of management of atopic dermatitis according to current medical knowledge.

To determine the impact of physical activity and fitness on the level of physical activity barriers (kinesiophobia) in women of perimenopausal age, the study included 105 women between the ages of 48 and 58. A Baecke questionnaire was used to evaluate physical activity and a modified Fullerton test was used to evaluate the fitness level. The level of kinesiophobia was assessed using the Kinesiophobia Causes Scale questionnaire. A low level of habitual physical activity has a negative impact on the values of Biological Domain (r = –0.581), Psychological Domain (r = –0.451), and on the Kinesiophobia Cause Scale total score (r = –0.577). Lower physical activity expressed by a lower score in the Fullerton test also has a negative impact on the level of kinesiophobia. Upper body flexibility (r = –0.434) has the strongest influence on the Biological Domain, whereas upper body strength (r = –0.598) has the greatest impact on the Psychological Domain. A low level of upper body strength also has the greatest impact on the Kinesiophobia Cause Scale total score (r = –0.507). Low levels of physical activity and fitness in women of perimenopausal age favour kinesiophobic attitudes and thereby increase the level of barriers against undertaking physical activity.

Atlanto-axial instability (AAI) is a developmental anomaly often occurring in persons with Down’s syndrome (DS). According to various reports, AAI affects from 6.8 to 27% of the population with DS. The aim of this review was to illustrate the issue of AAI with regard to the progressively changing state of scientific knowledge. The extended distance between the rear surface of the frontal arcus of the C1 cervical vertebra and the anterior surface of C2 cervical vertebra dens (anterior atlanto-odontoid distance, AAOD) indicates the occurrence of AAI and is detectable through X-ray examination. Hypoplasia of the C2 dens, also detectable through X-ray examination, is another suggested risk factor for AAI. According to current data, the methodology of taking measurements is inconsistent, which leads to errors in interpretation. As research focusing on AAI was progressing, new data emerged from other studies on persons with DS, suggesting that neurological symptoms in persons with DS that indicated the occurrence of spinal cord compression were an important factor in medical imaging detection of AAI. One of the main arguments supporting this thesis is that in isolated cases spinal cord (SC) damage was noted during screening examinations conducted on a large population of subjects. Moreover, cases in which the neurological symptoms indicate spinal cord compression existed long before the occurrence of the actual damage also remain of significant importance. Therefore, it is necessary to promote neurological studies on persons with DS to enable early diagnosis of spinal cord compression and, at the same time, reduce the use of medical imaging in cases of neurological symptoms.

Background: Man is exposed to falls performing daily activities, their effects turn out to be more severe especially in the later decades of life. After 60 years, it appears to be a larger number of fractures resulting in the limitation of physical fitness, health complications and life threatening. Therefore, prevention efforts conducted in the form of an in-depth analysis of the falls’ causes which already happened, control of health and proper treatment, conducting systematic, interesting and varied physical activities - in conjunction with education and mental change in a determined way they can and should reduce the risk of falls of the elderly.

Background Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are said to be frequently used by both professional and amateur athletes. In addition to having a negative impact on health, steroids defy the concept of fair play. The aim of the study was to evaluate the scale of the problem related to using anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) by gym athletes and to analyze possible causes. Methods The study involved 435 participants aged between 18-66 (mean age 27.49±7.48). Out of them, 61.4% were male and 38.6% were female. The subjects were divided into two groups: Group A included 154 (35.4%) amateur and recreational athletes and group B included 281 (64.6%) professional athletes concerned with fitness, bodybuilding and powerlifting. A survey prepared by the authors was conducted in the study, and it consisted of 23 closed questions about AAS use, body confidence, and exercise dependence. In addition, a stadiometer and a body composition analyzer were utilized to take necessary measurements. Results Between 1-23% of group A participants admitted to using AAS. For group B, it was between 7-30%. Males were reported to use AAS more frequently than females in both groups. With regard to group A, differences in body confidence and exercise dependence were found between males using and not using AAS. Exercise dependence was reported to be different between group A and group B participants. This was true for both males and females. Also, it was shown that group A and group B females differed in terms of metabolic age, body mass and body composition (fat mass, fat-free mass, muscle mass, and total body water). Conclusions Most gym athletes do not use AAS. Amateur athletes tend to use AAS more frequently than professional athletes. Factors that contribute to AAS use are: male gender, low body confidence, young age, and long training.