The Caucasus Journal of Medical and Psychological Sciences

Spastic Diplegic Cerebral Palsy: GMFM88 in Children Before and Two Years After Physical Rehabilitation

2025-07-29T19:32:45+00:00

The study aimed to assess gross motor function in children with spastic diplegia – the second most common form of cerebral palsy (CP) – before and after two years of physical rehabilitation by means of conventional physiotherapy interventions. The study was conducted at the Ken Walker University Clinic of Medical Rehabilitation (Georgia, Tbilisi) among 31 children with spastic diplegia aged 5 to 12 years old (inclusive). The functioning of the clinic is supported within the framework of a project funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the goal of which is to develop physical rehabilitation in Georgia (Tbilisi).The specialists have undergone full professional education and training under the guidance of experts from the Emory University School of Medicine. The children with spastic diplegia were divided into four age groups: group aged 5 – 6 consisted of 8 patients; group aged 7 – 8 consisted of 8 patients; group aged 9 – 10 consisted of 8 patients; group aged 11 – 12 consisted of 7 patients. The level of the child’s ability was assessed in accordance with the Gross Motor Function Classification System. The Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-88) was used in the evaluation of gross motor function in children with cerebral palsy, which took into account the 5 qualitative characteristics (lying and rolling; sitting; crawling and kneeling; standing; walking, running, and jumping) for the planning of the intervention and the assessment of rehabilitation effectiveness. Children underwent an interdisciplinary rehabilitation program before and two years after conventional physiotherapy. As a result gross motor function scores significantly increased in all age groups, especially in 5–6-year-old children. The efficiency of conventional physiotherapy interventions is confirmed by the increased range of motion in all joints of the lower limbs, reduced spasticity and improved balance function.

Psychophysical and Physical Methods in The Complex Treatment of Vitiligo

2025-07-29T20:10:07+00:00

As is known, the clinical manifestation of vitiligo has a significant negative impact on the quality of life, self-esteem and psycho-social well-being of the patient. The stigmatizing effect of a cosmetic defect, long-term chronic course of vitiligo is a common cause of progression of dermatosis. Based on the above, an alternative treatment method is proposed in the work, including the use of a variety of psychophysical therapy (point self-massage: massage of the “anti-stress point”, “exercise for improving sleep”), phototherapy of lesions in the complex treatment of acrofacial vitiligo. To study some psychological characteristics of patients before and after treatment, the “personal scale of anxiety manifestation” and the Beck Depression Scale were used. Before treatment, both groups of patients had a high level of anxiety (25-30 points). As shown by the results of the study, after complex treatment in the main group of patients (n = 18) compared to the comparison group (n = 17), the level of anxiety was significantly reduced (5-15 points). While in the comparison group this indicator remained high (25-30 points). According to the results of the Beck questionnaire, both groups of patients noted mild depression (10-18). After treatment in the main group of patients, the total depression score in 10 patients was 9 points ( no depressive simptoms), in 8 cases there were mild depressive symptoms. In the comparison group, the total depression score still corresponded to the moderate depression indicator. Along with positive dynamics in the level of anxiety and depression indicators, the main group showed earlier appearance of foci of repigmentation on the face, and the repigmentation itself was uniform without signs of hyperkeratosis and peeling. Availability, simplicity, possibility of home use, absolute safety, efficiency allow us to recommend the proposed method of treatment as an alternative method of therapy for patients with vitiligo.

Adherence to Therapy for Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Children

2025-08-09T15:43:53+00:00

An analysis of the literature data was carried out to determine adherence to therapy and its significance in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Such significant reasons for low adherence to treatment in children with IBD as psychological and emotional factors, lack of information about the disease, and complex therapy regimens are described. The role of parents and medical professionals to improve treatment adherence is outlined. The consequences of non-compliance with therapy for IBD in children are highlighted. The role of versatile educational programs in the effectiveness of IBD treatment in children is emphasized In conclusion, it was noted that adherence to therapy is a key factor in the successful treatment of IBD in children. The study of this topic is of great importance for practical medicine and requires further study, including the introduction of innovations.

Ultrasound Diagnosis of Acute Appendicitis in Children (Case Reports)

2025-08-09T15:11:50+00:00

Acute appendicitis (AA) is one of the most common causes of acute abdomen in children. Diagnosis of AA is still challenging. Delayed or missed diagnosis can lead to severe complications, including sepsis and even death. Ultrasound has been considered an option for the evaluation of suspected appendicitis in children; it is recommended as the first modality of choice for all age groups, especially in children, because of its safety. Timely and accurate ultrasonographic evaluation significantly contributes to early diagnosis and proper surgical management. We present the history of the disease and diagnostic value of ultrasound in children and three case reports of acute appendicitis: a 7-year-old male presented with right lower quadrant pain and fever, a 9-year-old male with nausea, vomiting, and lower abdominal pain and an 11-year-old female exhibited diffuse abdominal tenderness are presented

The History of the Health Resorts in Upper Kartli — Borjomi, Abastumani, Uraveli (1830-1854)

2025-08-09T14:22:46+00:00

The article provides a brief historical overview of the formation and development of resorts in Upper Kartli. It identifies pioneers who, through their work, transformed this beautiful corner of the world into a charming recreational area. In Transcaucasia, systematic studies of mineral waters began in the 1830s after the Adrianople Peace Treaty. The article examines the early stages of turning the healing springs of Kartli into balneological resorts. It also looks at the activities of those who contributed to the development of these resorts, including writers, doctors, and artists who described the unique culture, scenic nature, healthy climate, and healing properties of the springs.These individuals, encouraged by M.S. Vorontsov, were like advertising agents, promoting the benefits of the region in the best possible way. Quotes from essays about the nature of these lands and their healing waters are used to document the events of that ancient time.