Stefka Mindova - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Stefka Mindova

Research paper thumbnail of Physiotherapy for Children with Autism and Hyperactivity

Journal of IMAB, Jun 13, 2024

Research paper thumbnail of Study of the Effect of the Combination of Halotherapy and Breathing Gymnastics in Children with Bronchial Asthma

Journal of IMAB, Jul 2, 2024

Research paper thumbnail of Neuroreflex Mechanisms of Action as Part of Physiotherapy in Distal Humerus Fractures in the Early Postoperative Period

Journal of IMAB, Nov 20, 2020

Of the large joints in the human body, the elbow joint is the most complicated from an anatomical... more Of the large joints in the human body, the elbow joint is the most complicated from an anatomical and functional point of view. Its structure and function are such that they make it particularly sensitive to injuries, after which in many cases there is a permanent loss of movement. Elbow fractures rate is about 5.5% of all musculoskeletal system fractures. The most common are fractures of the radial head (2.8%), followed by those of olecranon (1%) and the distal part of the humerus (0.5%). Elbow fractures are one of the most difficult injuries to the upper limb to treat and physiotherapy. There are a number of contradictions regarding the most accurate method of treatment and model of recovery, because unlike the shoulder, in the elbow joint even the smallest incongruity in the joint surfaces lead to loss of movement, and prolonged immobilization-to joint contractures. The functional insufficiency of the elbow complex leads to the impossibility of self-service and work. One-third of the fractures of the elbow joint affect the distal humerus. The mechanism of injury is a fall on a stretched upper limb or a direct blow to the elbow.

Research paper thumbnail of Procedures for Apparatus Muscle Testing - Essence and Performance

The Muscle Test is an important tool for all healthcare team members who are committed to restori... more The Muscle Test is an important tool for all healthcare team members who are committed to restoring the patient's physical health and a fundamental element in identifying motor disorders. The outcomes obtained from this test are the basis for choosing an optimal therapeutic approach, a strategy for rehabilitation and tracking of the recovery process in dynamics. The lack of objectivity and quantitative data for comparison in muscle strength measurement in manual testing creates prerequisites for inaccuracies and subjective judgment on the part of the examiner. This has given rise to the search for additional tools to support standard muscle assessment methods, such as apparatus muscle testing. It provides more accurate, quantitative and objective assessments and creates a prerequisite for refining the muscle test and preserving it in an electronic database accessible to a team of specialists.

Research paper thumbnail of Bell’s palsy

Research paper thumbnail of Application of Hand-Held Dynamometer for Monitoring Functional Recovery in Patients with Cervical Radiculopathy

Journal of IMAB, Apr 15, 2022

Cervical radiculopathy is common in clinical practice. It is the main reason to neck pain. Depend... more Cervical radiculopathy is common in clinical practice. It is the main reason to neck pain. Depending on the severity, neck pain can interfere with daily activities. In this regard, in order to identify the symptoms and to undertake optimal treatment of the problem, a full clinical and functional examination must be performed. The most commonly used and imposed test in practice to assess the condition of the muscles is manual muscle testing (MMT). Recent studies of muscle dysfunction in various neuromuscular disorders have focused on the use of apparatus methods to assess and monitor functional recovery. For this reason, based on the successful results of the use of a manual electronic dynamometer, we applied in a clinical setting testing with Hand-Held Dynamometer (HHD) to monitor functional recovery in patients with cervical radiculopathy. Aim: The aim of the study was: to monitor and compare changes in muscle strength during functional recovery in patients with cervical radiculopathy using standard Manual Muscle Testing and Hand-Held Dynamometer. Materials and methods: The study was conducted in the period from December 2019 to April 2020. They were selected 16 patients of different origins of pain in the neck portion (osteochondrosis, spondylosis, disk herniation). Functional, hardware and statistical methods were used to monitor and evaluate the results. HDD-muscle testing was also included in the experimental group. Results: The practical experience of using a Hand-Held electronic dynamometer proved to be facilitation not only for the researcher but also for the patients. The inclusion of an HHD in the conducted research allowed fast and accurate assessment of the physical function and the weakened muscle groups. This allowed individual dosing and targeted exercise of weakened muscle groups in each individual patient. Conclusion: The use of HHD to assess muscle strength leads to objectification and a more rational presentation of the results of muscle strength testing.

Research paper thumbnail of Mirror Therapy in Physiotherapeutic Practice for Recovery of the Motor Function of the Upper Limb in Patients with Ischemic Stroke

Journal of IMAB, Apr 11, 2022

Cerebrovascular diseases occupy a major place among socially significant diseases due to high mor... more Cerebrovascular diseases occupy a major place among socially significant diseases due to high morbidity, mortality and severe disability. Bulgaria is one of the first places in the world in these indicators. Timely and properly applied, physiotherapy has a positive effect on their independence and self-care. Modern physiotherapy is based on the theory of neuroplasticity-the ability of the brain to change adaptively with significant changes in the body and the environment. Mirror therapy is a contemporary approach to restoring the function of the upper limb after a stroke. It is based on the principle of stimulating movement in the affected limb through visual signals coming from the other side of the body. This aroused the interest to develop and implement a program and methodology of its application, including mirror therapy. The aim of the study was: To develop and implement a physiotherapy program and methodology of its application, including mirror therapy, to improve motor function of the upper limb in the recovery of patients with ischemic brain disease and to study the effect of its application. The present study was conducted in the Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine of the University Hospital "Medica-Russe" in the period from January 2019 to June 2020. Of the patients diagnosed with ischemic stroke, were formed two groups-control and experimental. Ten patients were included in each group. The presented own results make it possible to analyze the effect of the applied complex physiotherapy program and mirror therapy in the late recovery period.

Research paper thumbnail of The Influence of Gait Pattern with Aids on the Patient’s Recovery in an Early Period of Total Knee Replacement

Acta Medica Bulgarica, May 1, 2019

Introduction: The total knee replacement is the defi nitive treatment for knee osteoarthritis (OA... more Introduction: The total knee replacement is the defi nitive treatment for knee osteoarthritis (OA). It is an eff ective intervention to correct OA-related functional limitation. In such patients postoperatively are observed signifi cant diff erences in the biomechanics of the two knee joints. While bearing the body weight the unoperated knee joint becomes very painful, stiff and incapable of neutral positioning. These factors signifi cantly hamper the initial training in gait with aids in the standard locomotive stereotype immediately after surgery for knee joint replacement, where walking plays an essential role in daily activities and has varied health benefi ts. Aim: The aim of the study was to check whether diff erent types of gait with aids in the early postoperative period after total knee replacement have a diff erent infl uence on the recovery process.

Research paper thumbnail of Procedural Options for Measuring Muscle Strength

Acta Medica Bulgarica, Oct 1, 2016

The aim of the present study was to provide alternative means of measurement and evaluation of mu... more The aim of the present study was to provide alternative means of measurement and evaluation of muscle strength in rehabilitation practice and diagnostics. In the last few years many electronic devices for evaluation of muscle strength have developed. Contemporary studies have shown that in addition to the standard manual muscle testing muscle strength can be assessed more objectively and analytically using electronic dynamometers and equipment. The strain gauges are used as a tool of precision in the industry that allows measurement of mechanical loads by dynamometers. By using these tools is possible to obtain continuous digital measurement and recording of muscle strength.

Research paper thumbnail of Application of Hand-Held Dynamometer for Monitoring Functional Recovery in Patients with Cervical Radiculopathy

Journal of IMAB - Annual Proceeding (Scientific Papers)

Cervical radiculopathy is common in clinical practice. It is the main reason to neck pain. Depend... more Cervical radiculopathy is common in clinical practice. It is the main reason to neck pain. Depending on the severity, neck pain can interfere with daily activities. In this regard, in order to identify the symptoms and to undertake optimal treatment of the problem, a full clinical and functional examination must be performed. The most commonly used and imposed test in practice to assess the condition of the muscles is manual muscle testing (MMT). Recent studies of muscle dysfunction in various neuromuscular disorders have focused on the use of apparatus methods to assess and monitor functional recovery. For this reason, based on the successful results of the use of a manual electronic dynamometer, we applied in a clinical setting testing with Hand-Held Dynamometer (HHD) to monitor functional recovery in patients with cervical radiculopathy. Aim: The aim of the study was: to monitor and compare changes in muscle strength during functional recovery in patients with cervical radiculopa...

Research paper thumbnail of Mirror Therapy in Physiotherapeutic Practice for Recovery of the Motor Function of the Upper Limb in Patients with Ischemic Stroke

Journal of IMAB - Annual Proceeding (Scientific Papers)

Cerebrovascular diseases occupy a major place among socially significant diseases due to high mor... more Cerebrovascular diseases occupy a major place among socially significant diseases due to high morbidity, mortality and severe disability. Bulgaria is one of the first places in the world in these indicators. Timely and properly applied, physiotherapy has a positive effect on their independence and self-care. Modern physiotherapy is based on the theory of neuroplasticity - the ability of the brain to change adaptively with significant changes in the body and the environment. Mirror therapy is a contemporary approach to restoring the function of the upper limb after a stroke. It is based on the principle of stimulating movement in the affected limb through visual signals coming from the other side of the body. This aroused the interest to develop and implement a program and methodology of its application, including mirror therapy. The aim of the study was: To develop and implement a physiotherapy program and methodology of its application, including mirror therapy, to improve motor fu...

Research paper thumbnail of Procedures for Apparatus Muscle Testing - Essence and Performance

Journal of IMAB - Annual Proceeding (Scientific Papers), 2019

Research paper thumbnail of Bell’s palsy

Proceedings of The 4th International Virtual Conference on Advanced Scientific Results, 2016

Research paper thumbnail of Neuroreflex Mechanisms of Action as Part of Physiotherapy in Distal Humerus Fractures in the Early Postoperative Period

Of the large joints in the human body, the elbow joint is the most complicated from an anatomical... more Of the large joints in the human body, the elbow joint is the most complicated from an anatomical and functional point of view. Its structure and function are such that they make it particularly sensitive to injuries, after which in many cases there is a permanent loss of movement. Elbow fractures rate is about 5.5% of all musculoskeletal system fractures. The most common are fractures of the radial head (2.8%), followed by those of olecranon (1%) and the distal part of the humerus (0.5%). Elbow fractures are one of the most difficult injuries to the upper limb to treat and physiotherapy. There are a number of contradictions regarding the most accurate method of treatment and model of recovery, because unlike the shoulder, in the elbow joint even the smallest incongruity in the joint surfaces lead to loss of movement, and prolonged immobilization - to joint contractures. The functional insufficiency of the elbow complex leads to the impossibility of self-service and work. One-third ...

Research paper thumbnail of Physiotherapy for Children with Autism and Hyperactivity

Journal of IMAB, Jun 13, 2024

Research paper thumbnail of Study of the Effect of the Combination of Halotherapy and Breathing Gymnastics in Children with Bronchial Asthma

Journal of IMAB, Jul 2, 2024

Research paper thumbnail of Neuroreflex Mechanisms of Action as Part of Physiotherapy in Distal Humerus Fractures in the Early Postoperative Period

Journal of IMAB, Nov 20, 2020

Of the large joints in the human body, the elbow joint is the most complicated from an anatomical... more Of the large joints in the human body, the elbow joint is the most complicated from an anatomical and functional point of view. Its structure and function are such that they make it particularly sensitive to injuries, after which in many cases there is a permanent loss of movement. Elbow fractures rate is about 5.5% of all musculoskeletal system fractures. The most common are fractures of the radial head (2.8%), followed by those of olecranon (1%) and the distal part of the humerus (0.5%). Elbow fractures are one of the most difficult injuries to the upper limb to treat and physiotherapy. There are a number of contradictions regarding the most accurate method of treatment and model of recovery, because unlike the shoulder, in the elbow joint even the smallest incongruity in the joint surfaces lead to loss of movement, and prolonged immobilization-to joint contractures. The functional insufficiency of the elbow complex leads to the impossibility of self-service and work. One-third of the fractures of the elbow joint affect the distal humerus. The mechanism of injury is a fall on a stretched upper limb or a direct blow to the elbow.

Research paper thumbnail of Procedures for Apparatus Muscle Testing - Essence and Performance

The Muscle Test is an important tool for all healthcare team members who are committed to restori... more The Muscle Test is an important tool for all healthcare team members who are committed to restoring the patient's physical health and a fundamental element in identifying motor disorders. The outcomes obtained from this test are the basis for choosing an optimal therapeutic approach, a strategy for rehabilitation and tracking of the recovery process in dynamics. The lack of objectivity and quantitative data for comparison in muscle strength measurement in manual testing creates prerequisites for inaccuracies and subjective judgment on the part of the examiner. This has given rise to the search for additional tools to support standard muscle assessment methods, such as apparatus muscle testing. It provides more accurate, quantitative and objective assessments and creates a prerequisite for refining the muscle test and preserving it in an electronic database accessible to a team of specialists.

Research paper thumbnail of Bell’s palsy

Research paper thumbnail of Application of Hand-Held Dynamometer for Monitoring Functional Recovery in Patients with Cervical Radiculopathy

Journal of IMAB, Apr 15, 2022

Cervical radiculopathy is common in clinical practice. It is the main reason to neck pain. Depend... more Cervical radiculopathy is common in clinical practice. It is the main reason to neck pain. Depending on the severity, neck pain can interfere with daily activities. In this regard, in order to identify the symptoms and to undertake optimal treatment of the problem, a full clinical and functional examination must be performed. The most commonly used and imposed test in practice to assess the condition of the muscles is manual muscle testing (MMT). Recent studies of muscle dysfunction in various neuromuscular disorders have focused on the use of apparatus methods to assess and monitor functional recovery. For this reason, based on the successful results of the use of a manual electronic dynamometer, we applied in a clinical setting testing with Hand-Held Dynamometer (HHD) to monitor functional recovery in patients with cervical radiculopathy. Aim: The aim of the study was: to monitor and compare changes in muscle strength during functional recovery in patients with cervical radiculopathy using standard Manual Muscle Testing and Hand-Held Dynamometer. Materials and methods: The study was conducted in the period from December 2019 to April 2020. They were selected 16 patients of different origins of pain in the neck portion (osteochondrosis, spondylosis, disk herniation). Functional, hardware and statistical methods were used to monitor and evaluate the results. HDD-muscle testing was also included in the experimental group. Results: The practical experience of using a Hand-Held electronic dynamometer proved to be facilitation not only for the researcher but also for the patients. The inclusion of an HHD in the conducted research allowed fast and accurate assessment of the physical function and the weakened muscle groups. This allowed individual dosing and targeted exercise of weakened muscle groups in each individual patient. Conclusion: The use of HHD to assess muscle strength leads to objectification and a more rational presentation of the results of muscle strength testing.

Research paper thumbnail of Mirror Therapy in Physiotherapeutic Practice for Recovery of the Motor Function of the Upper Limb in Patients with Ischemic Stroke

Journal of IMAB, Apr 11, 2022

Cerebrovascular diseases occupy a major place among socially significant diseases due to high mor... more Cerebrovascular diseases occupy a major place among socially significant diseases due to high morbidity, mortality and severe disability. Bulgaria is one of the first places in the world in these indicators. Timely and properly applied, physiotherapy has a positive effect on their independence and self-care. Modern physiotherapy is based on the theory of neuroplasticity-the ability of the brain to change adaptively with significant changes in the body and the environment. Mirror therapy is a contemporary approach to restoring the function of the upper limb after a stroke. It is based on the principle of stimulating movement in the affected limb through visual signals coming from the other side of the body. This aroused the interest to develop and implement a program and methodology of its application, including mirror therapy. The aim of the study was: To develop and implement a physiotherapy program and methodology of its application, including mirror therapy, to improve motor function of the upper limb in the recovery of patients with ischemic brain disease and to study the effect of its application. The present study was conducted in the Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine of the University Hospital "Medica-Russe" in the period from January 2019 to June 2020. Of the patients diagnosed with ischemic stroke, were formed two groups-control and experimental. Ten patients were included in each group. The presented own results make it possible to analyze the effect of the applied complex physiotherapy program and mirror therapy in the late recovery period.

Research paper thumbnail of The Influence of Gait Pattern with Aids on the Patient’s Recovery in an Early Period of Total Knee Replacement

Acta Medica Bulgarica, May 1, 2019

Introduction: The total knee replacement is the defi nitive treatment for knee osteoarthritis (OA... more Introduction: The total knee replacement is the defi nitive treatment for knee osteoarthritis (OA). It is an eff ective intervention to correct OA-related functional limitation. In such patients postoperatively are observed signifi cant diff erences in the biomechanics of the two knee joints. While bearing the body weight the unoperated knee joint becomes very painful, stiff and incapable of neutral positioning. These factors signifi cantly hamper the initial training in gait with aids in the standard locomotive stereotype immediately after surgery for knee joint replacement, where walking plays an essential role in daily activities and has varied health benefi ts. Aim: The aim of the study was to check whether diff erent types of gait with aids in the early postoperative period after total knee replacement have a diff erent infl uence on the recovery process.

Research paper thumbnail of Procedural Options for Measuring Muscle Strength

Acta Medica Bulgarica, Oct 1, 2016

The aim of the present study was to provide alternative means of measurement and evaluation of mu... more The aim of the present study was to provide alternative means of measurement and evaluation of muscle strength in rehabilitation practice and diagnostics. In the last few years many electronic devices for evaluation of muscle strength have developed. Contemporary studies have shown that in addition to the standard manual muscle testing muscle strength can be assessed more objectively and analytically using electronic dynamometers and equipment. The strain gauges are used as a tool of precision in the industry that allows measurement of mechanical loads by dynamometers. By using these tools is possible to obtain continuous digital measurement and recording of muscle strength.

Research paper thumbnail of Application of Hand-Held Dynamometer for Monitoring Functional Recovery in Patients with Cervical Radiculopathy

Journal of IMAB - Annual Proceeding (Scientific Papers)

Cervical radiculopathy is common in clinical practice. It is the main reason to neck pain. Depend... more Cervical radiculopathy is common in clinical practice. It is the main reason to neck pain. Depending on the severity, neck pain can interfere with daily activities. In this regard, in order to identify the symptoms and to undertake optimal treatment of the problem, a full clinical and functional examination must be performed. The most commonly used and imposed test in practice to assess the condition of the muscles is manual muscle testing (MMT). Recent studies of muscle dysfunction in various neuromuscular disorders have focused on the use of apparatus methods to assess and monitor functional recovery. For this reason, based on the successful results of the use of a manual electronic dynamometer, we applied in a clinical setting testing with Hand-Held Dynamometer (HHD) to monitor functional recovery in patients with cervical radiculopathy. Aim: The aim of the study was: to monitor and compare changes in muscle strength during functional recovery in patients with cervical radiculopa...

Research paper thumbnail of Mirror Therapy in Physiotherapeutic Practice for Recovery of the Motor Function of the Upper Limb in Patients with Ischemic Stroke

Journal of IMAB - Annual Proceeding (Scientific Papers)

Cerebrovascular diseases occupy a major place among socially significant diseases due to high mor... more Cerebrovascular diseases occupy a major place among socially significant diseases due to high morbidity, mortality and severe disability. Bulgaria is one of the first places in the world in these indicators. Timely and properly applied, physiotherapy has a positive effect on their independence and self-care. Modern physiotherapy is based on the theory of neuroplasticity - the ability of the brain to change adaptively with significant changes in the body and the environment. Mirror therapy is a contemporary approach to restoring the function of the upper limb after a stroke. It is based on the principle of stimulating movement in the affected limb through visual signals coming from the other side of the body. This aroused the interest to develop and implement a program and methodology of its application, including mirror therapy. The aim of the study was: To develop and implement a physiotherapy program and methodology of its application, including mirror therapy, to improve motor fu...

Research paper thumbnail of Procedures for Apparatus Muscle Testing - Essence and Performance

Journal of IMAB - Annual Proceeding (Scientific Papers), 2019

Research paper thumbnail of Bell’s palsy

Proceedings of The 4th International Virtual Conference on Advanced Scientific Results, 2016

Research paper thumbnail of Neuroreflex Mechanisms of Action as Part of Physiotherapy in Distal Humerus Fractures in the Early Postoperative Period

Of the large joints in the human body, the elbow joint is the most complicated from an anatomical... more Of the large joints in the human body, the elbow joint is the most complicated from an anatomical and functional point of view. Its structure and function are such that they make it particularly sensitive to injuries, after which in many cases there is a permanent loss of movement. Elbow fractures rate is about 5.5% of all musculoskeletal system fractures. The most common are fractures of the radial head (2.8%), followed by those of olecranon (1%) and the distal part of the humerus (0.5%). Elbow fractures are one of the most difficult injuries to the upper limb to treat and physiotherapy. There are a number of contradictions regarding the most accurate method of treatment and model of recovery, because unlike the shoulder, in the elbow joint even the smallest incongruity in the joint surfaces lead to loss of movement, and prolonged immobilization - to joint contractures. The functional insufficiency of the elbow complex leads to the impossibility of self-service and work. One-third ...