Healer Journal of Biomedical and Health Sciences
The Healer Journal of Biomedical and Health Sciences (HJBHS) is an international, open-access, double-blind, peer-reviewed journal published biannually by Physio Rehab and Research Center (Pvt) Ltd. The journal is committed to advancing high-quality research across the biomedical, clinical, and health sciences and to making scientific evidence widely accessible for improved health outcomes, rehabilitation, and the betterment of society. HJBHS provides a multidisciplinary platform for research from biological sciences, medicine, allied health sciences, pharmacy, psychology, and related fields. The journal publishes original research articles, systematic and narrative reviews, case reports, short communications, special communications, editorials, and letters to the editor. All submissions undergo a double-blind peer-review process to ensure academic integrity, methodological rigor, and adherence to ethical research standards. The journal follows the DOAJ, COPE, and ICMJE recommendations and internationally recognized guidelines for research reporting and publication ethics. By promoting evidence-based practice and fostering collaboration among researchers, clinicians, educators, and health professionals worldwide, HJBHS bridges the gap between scientific discovery and practical healthcare application. Through its print and online-first publications, the journal supports global knowledge exchange that informs clinical decision-making, enriches academic dialogue, and drives innovation in biomedical and health sciences. For detailed information, please visit About the Journal Open-Access Statement The Healer Journal of Biomedical and Health Sciences adheres to open-access principles as defined by the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ). a). Articles may be read, downloaded, copied, distributed, printed, searched, or linked to in full. b). Content may be crawled for indexing and used for lawful academic and research purposes. c). No registration or subscription is required to access published content. All published material is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0) A printed version of the journal is available upon request. For details, contact editor@healerjournal.com Types of Manuscript Accepted Original Articles: Reports of novel research findings. Systematic Reviews: Comprehensive reviews following a systematic methodology to synthesize evidence. Meta-analysis: Quantitative analysis combining results from multiple studies. Case Reports: Unique or illustrative cases with significant educational value. Case Studies: Detailed examinations of specific cases providing practical insights. Letter to the Editor: Commentary on published articles or relevant scientific issues. Editorials: Expert opinions or perspectives on current topics in biomedical and health sciences. Article Publication Charges Article Processing Charges: PKR 5,000 International Authors (upon acceptance): USD 25 Important Links Author Guidelines Submission Process Guide Article Publication Charges Make a Submission Journal Policies Downloads Contact Us
Physio Rehab and Research Center (Pvt) Ltd
Copyright © The Authors. Healer Journal of Biomedical and Health Sciences is published by PRRC (Pvt) Ltd
Dry Needling Versus Kinesiotaping for Upper Trapezius Trigger Points: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Background: Myofascial pain syndrome involving the upper trapezius is a common musculoskeletal problem in adult males and is frequently associated with active trigger points, increased pain sensitivity, and changes in muscle structure. Objective: To compare the effects of dry needling and inhibitory Kinesio taping on pressure pain threshold and muscle thickness in males with upper trapezius myofascial pain syndrome. Methodology: This single-blinded randomized controlled trial included 60 male participants presenting with active trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle. Participants were randomly assigned to three equal groups. Group 1 underwent dry needling, Group 2 received inhibitory Kinesio taping, and Group 3 acted as the control group without intervention. Pressure pain threshold was measured using a pressure algometer, while ultrasound imaging was used to determine muscle thickness. Participants were excluded if they had a previous cervical spine surgery, neurological disease, systemic inflammatory condition, bleeding disorder, or were using anticoagulant drugs. Outcomes were recorded at baseline, on the 5th day after intervention, and again on the 10th day. Descriptive statistics were used for demographic and baseline data. Repeated-measure ANOVA was used to examine changes within groups and differences between groups over time. Results: Both the dry needling and inhibitory Kinesio taping groups demonstrated statistically significant improvements in pressure pain threshold following intervention (p<0.001) and significant reductions in upper trapezius muscle thickness (p<0.05). Both interventions were superior to the control group, which showed no significant changes in either outcome. No statistically significant difference was observed between the two treatment groups. Conclusion: Dry needling and inhibitory Kinesio taping were both beneficial in decreasing pain sensitivity and reducing muscle thickness in males with active trigger points in the upper trapezius. Despite differences in therapeutic approach, both interventions produced comparable clinical effects.
Copyright (c) 2026 Hira Younis, Mohammad Ali Khan, Imrana Aziz https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Virtual Reality–Based Physiotherapy and Its Impact on Functional Recovery in Stroke patients
Background: Stroke remains a leading cause of long-term disability, which affects motor function, balance, coordination, and daily activities. Virtual reality-based physiotherapy has emerged as an innovative approach, offering immersive, task-oriented rehabilitation environments. Objective: To review and synthesize recent evidence (2019-2025) on the effectiveness of VR-based physiotherapy in improving functional recovery among stroke patients. Methodology: This review employed a structured narrative synthesis guided by PRISMA to ensure transparent and systematic reporting of evidence on Virtual Reality–based physiotherapy in stroke rehabilitation. A comprehensive search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, PEDro, and the Cochrane Library identified studies published between January 2019 and June 2025. Free-text keywords and MeSH terms related to stroke, Virtual reality rehabilitation, physiotherapy, and functional recovery were combined using Boolean operators. Citations were managed and deduplicated in reference software, followed by title, abstract, and full-text screening per PRISMA criteria. Eligible studies included randomised controlled trials, controlled trials, and systematic reviews examining virtual reality interventions and functional outcomes such as motor recovery, balance, gait, and ADLs. Non-English papers, cognitive-only virtual reality studies, abstracts, and mixed populations without stroke-specific data were excluded. Data were extracted using a standardized template covering study design, virtual reality type, intervention dosage, and outcomes. Methodological quality was appraised (PEDro for trials), enabling a rigorous qualitative synthesis of contemporary evidence. Results: Evidence consistently demonstrates that virtual reality-based rehabilitation improves motor function, postural control, and functional independence compared with conventional therapy alone. Meta-analyses report superior gains in upper limb recovery, dexterity, and task performance when VR is used adjunctively. Improvements in balance, gait, and daily activities are also reported, alongside enhanced motivation, therapy adherence, and psychological well-being. Conclusion: Virtual reality-based physiotherapy is an effective adjunct to conventional stroke rehabilitation, enhancing recovery, engagement, and quality of life.
Copyright (c) 2026 Seher, Farah Manzoor https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Comparative Effectiveness of High and Low-Intensity Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation on Pain and Functional Recovery in Knee Osteoarthritis
Background: Knee osteoarthritis is a prevalent degenerative joint disorder, especially among the elderly population. It is characterized by chronic pain, stiffness, and impaired ability to perform routine activities, ultimately affecting mobility and overall quality of life. Consequently, there is a need for effective, safe, and non-invasive interventions to alleviate symptoms and enhance functional outcomes. Objective: To compare the effects of high-intensity versus low-intensity transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation on pain relief and functional improvement in individuals with knee osteoarthritis. Methodology: A randomized controlled trial was carried out involving 52 patients diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis. Patients with a history of knee joint surgery, intra-articular steroid injection within the last three months, neurological disorders, uncontrolled systemic diseases, use of pacemakers or other implants, severe deformity, or inflammatory joint diseases were excluded from the study. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: one treated with high-intensity transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and the other with low-intensity. Each group underwent eight physiotherapy sessions, conducted three times per week over a specified duration. Pain levels and functional status were measured before and after the intervention using reliable and validated assessment tools. Within-group changes in pain and functional outcomes were assessed using paired t-tests. For comparisons between the study groups, independent t-tests or Mann–Whitney U tests were applied. Results: Both intervention groups exhibited significant reductions in pain and improvements in functional performance following treatment. The group receiving high-intensity transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation showed a statistically greater decrease in pain compared to the low-intensity group (p<0.05). Functional gains were comparable between the two groups, with no significant difference observed. Conclusion: Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, whether applied at high or low intensity, is beneficial in managing pain and enhancing functional capacity in knee osteoarthritis. High-intensity transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation may offer superior analgesic effects. These findings reinforce the role of this stimulation as an effective, economical, and non-invasive option in the rehabilitation of knee osteoarthritis.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation
Copyright (c) 2026 Piryanka Lohana, Syed Muhammad Tayyab Ul Hassan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Impact of Nd-YAG Laser Capsulotomy on Visual Acuity and Intraocular Pressure Pre-Procedure, 30 Minutes Post-Procedure, and After 15 Days
Background: Posterior capsular opacification is a common problem after cataract surgery that causes blurred vision. Nd-YAG laser capsulotomy is used to improve vision, but its effects on visual acuity and short-term changes in eye pressure need evaluation. Objective: To evaluate the impact of Nd-YAG laser capsulotomy on visual acuity and intraocular pressure. Methodology: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted from October to December 2023 at the College of Ophthalmology and Allied Vision Sciences, Mayo Hospital, Lahore. A convenience sampling technique was used to recruit 40 patients aged 50 years, and posterior capsular opacification with reduced visual acuity was included in this study. The patients having corneal diseases, retinal diseases, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and any other pathology were excluded. Before performing any test, the procedure was explained, and informed consent was taken. Visual acuity was measured and recorded using an ETDRS chart both prior to and following a 30-minute YAG laser capsulotomy. Intraocular pressure was then assessed using a non-contact air puff tonometer, and the results showed that intraocular pressure values greater than 20mmHg suggest a post-laser spike in intraocular pressure. The mean and standard deviation were used to calculate quantitative variables, whereas frequency and percentages were used to quantify qualitative factors. The Wilcoxon Signed Ranks test was used to compare pre-procedure and post-procedure results. Results: All patients initially had visual acuity 1.0 log MAR, with 37 having intraocular pressure 10-21mmHg and 3 having intraocular pressure <10mmHg. After 30 minutes, visual acuity improved significantly in all patients, while post-intraocular pressure and p-values did not show significant results. The comparison between 30 minutes and 15 days was statistically significant for both intraocular pressure and visual acuity (p<0.001). Overall, the results showed improvement in visual acuity with a temporary rise in intraocular pressure. Conclusion: Post-laser visual acuity was enhanced, and intraocular pressure elevation in severe posterior capsular opacification appeared to be a transient phenomenon that was linked to the mechanical energy and laser shots administered during the procedure.
Neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet laser
Copyright (c) 2026 Nimra Saddique, Muhammad Awais Asghar, Sobia Iqbal, Zaryab Khan, Ummara Rasheed https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Role of Wearable Devices in Monitoring Rehabilitation Outcomes in Physiotherapy Patients
Background: In physiotherapy, keeping track of how patients recover is very important. Usually, therapists rely on clinic visits, short physical tests, or patient feedback. This means small changes in daily activity or function may not always be noticed. Recently, wearable devices have started being used more in rehabilitation. These small gadgets can track movement, activity, and other body signals continuously, even outside the clinic. Objective: To explore the role of wearable devices in monitoring rehabilitation outcomes in physiotherapy patients. Methodology: We conducted this systematic review according to PRISMA guidelines to evaluate experimental studies using wearable devices to monitor rehabilitation outcomes in physiotherapy patients (2015–2025). Studies included musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiac, and pulmonary patients using devices such as smartwatches, motion sensors, IMUs, and biofeedback tools. Only experimental designs published in English were included, while reviews, case reports, and studies on healthy participants were excluded. Four databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar) were searched using combined keywords. After screening 1,268 records and removing duplicates, 30 studies met the inclusion criteria. Data on study design, devices, outcomes, and findings were extracted and synthesized qualitatively due to heterogeneity. Independent reviewers ensured unbiased selection, providing a structured evaluation of wearable technology in rehabilitation monitoring. Results: A total of thirty studies met the inclusion criteria. Wearable devices were used to track activity levels, walking patterns, joint movements, muscle activity, and other body signals during rehabilitation. Many studies showed that wearable data reflected improvements in function and helped therapists follow patient progress more closely. However, studies differed in design, device types, outcome measures, and rehab programs. Conclusion: Wearable devices seem useful for tracking rehabilitation outcomes in physiotherapy. They may help therapists plan treatment better and allow patients to be monitored remotely. Still, more well-designed, larger studies are needed to develop consistent methods and support wider use in clinics.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sarwat Mehmood, Farah Manzoor, Zainab Ali https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Central and Peripheral Contributions to Fatigue: Neurophysiological Correlates of Endurance Exercise
Background: Fatigue during prolonged endurance exercise arises from both muscular and central nervous system factors. The brain and spinal cord contribute to performance decline, the interaction between central and peripheral mechanisms is not fully understood. Objective: To investigate the indication of central and peripheral fatigue during endurance exercise. It aims to identify the neurophysiological changes that contribute to performance decline and increased perception of effort. Methodology: In this study, 80 trained adult athletes of the Punjab Sports Board were recruited, and all were physically healthy, without any neuromuscular disease, and aged between 18 and 35. Participants were instructed to refrain from hard exercise, caffeine, and alcohol for 24 hours before testing and to take a light meal at least two hours before exercise. Trained athletes did an endurance cycling test till they were exhausted. Transcranial magnetic stimulation was used to see central fatigue, and electromyography checked muscle activity, conduction speed, and amplitude for the peripheral side. Near-infrared spectroscopy looked at muscle oxygen levels. Participants also gave their exertion rating. Testing to determine fatigue markers was done using a cycle ergometer. Paired-sample t-tests were made to compare pre- and post-intervention values. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated to examine associations between central markers. Results: After cycling, motor-evoked potentials dropped from 5.8±0.6 mV to 4.2±0.5 mV, so central fatigue was clear. Electromyography conduction speed fell (4.5±0.3 to 3.8±0.4 m/s) and amplitude too (2.1±0.2 to 1.6±0.2 mV), meaning muscles were tiring. Near-infrared spectroscopy showed oxygenation going down from 72±5% to 58±6%. Perceived effort increased from 12±2 to 18±1. Correlation showed a moderate link (r=0.46, p<0.05) between central and peripheral changes, so both sides were involved together. Conclusion: Endurance fatigue in trained adults arises from central and peripheral mechanisms that occur simultaneously. This results in the brain reducing its push muscles after prolonged physical activity such as endurance cycling. Understanding this can help athletes and normal people plan training better, avoid overdoing it, and maybe perform smarter.
Copyright (c) 2025 Waqar Shahid, Sajawal Bashir (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Prevalence, Dietary Patterns and Associations with Body Weight among Women of Reproductive Age in Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study
Background: Overweight and obesity are widely emerging among women of reproductive age in Pakistan. Changes in lifestyle and dietary habits, sedentary lifestyles, and reduced physical activity contribute to unhealthy weight gain, risk of metabolic disorders, and pregnancy-related complications. Objective: To determine the prevalence of BMI categories, characterize dietary and lifestyle patterns, and assess their associations with body weight among women aged 25 to 40 years in Pakistan. Methodology: This cross-sectional study included 200 women aged 25–40 from urban and semi-urban areas. Only non-pregnant, non-lactating women willing to participate were included, while those with chronic illnesses affecting weight were excluded. Participants provided informed consent and were briefed about the study. Dietary intake was assessed using a semi-quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire. Major dietary patterns were identified via factor analysis, primarily Principal Component Analysis with varimax rotation. Associations between diet patterns and BMI were analyzed using chi-square tests and logistic regression to determine the likelihood of being overweight or obese based on diet pattern scores. Results: Among participants, 30% were overweight, and 14% were obese; 48% had a normal body mass index, and 8% were underweight. Two dominant patterns emerged: a traditional home-cooked pattern (high intake of roti, rice, lentils, and vegetables) and a high-fat/snacking pattern (fried foods, sugary drinks, and packaged snacks). Women with high adherence to the high-fat/snacking pattern combined with low physical activity had significantly higher odds of being overweight or obese (p<0.01). Regular exercise, daily fruit intake, and consistent breakfast consumption were associated with healthier body mass index levels. Conclusion: Excess body weight is highly prevalent among Pakistani women aged 25 to 40 years. Diets high in fried foods and sugary snacks, along with low physical activity, are strongly associated with higher body mass index, whereas healthy eating and regular exercise are protective. These findings highlight the need for integrated interventions promoting balanced nutrition and active lifestyles to prevent obesity in this population.
Copyright (c) 2025 Arooj Fatima (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Association Between Periodontal Disease Severity and Glycemic Control in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus and periodontal disease are interconnected chronic conditions linked through inflammatory and metabolic pathways. Prolonged hyperglycemia promotes the formation of advanced glycation end products and increases pro-inflammatory cytokine release, accelerating periodontal tissue breakdown. Untreated periodontal disease can increase systemic inflammation and negatively affect glycemic regulation. Objective: To determine the association between periodontal disease severity and glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and to examine whether poor glycemic control predicts greater periodontal tissue loss. Methodology: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 120 adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Periodontal status was evaluated using the Community Periodontal Index, probing pocket depth, and clinical attachment level. Glycemic control was assessed using glycated hemoglobin values extracted from medical records. Patients who had any systemic disease that directly affects periodontal tissues, such as rheumatoid arthritis or connective-tissue disorders, were excluded. We also excluded pregnant females and patients who had periodontal treatment in the past three months to avoid changes in baseline readings. Data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation and multivariate linear regression adjusting for age, gender, smoking status, duration of diabetes, and oral hygiene practices. Results: Among the 120 participants (mean age 52.7±8.6 years), 65% had poor glycemic control (HbA1c ≥8%). Patients with poor control exhibited significantly higher mean PPD (5.0±1.1 mm) and clinical attachment level (4.7±1.0 mm) compared with those having HbA1c <7% (PPD 3.5±0.8 mm; clinical attachment level 3.1±0.9 mm) (p<0.001). HbA1c demonstrated a moderate positive correlation with CAL (r=0.43, p<0.001). On multivariate regression, HbA1c remained an independent predictor of periodontal destruction (β=0.37, p<0.01) after adjusting for confounders. Conclusion: Poor glycemic control is significantly associated with increased periodontal disease severity among Pakistani patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Incorporating periodontal assessment and treatment into diabetes management programs may help improve overall health outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2025 Osama Khalil (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Cognitive Effects of Daily Screen Time Habits among Early Adolescents
Background: Screen time has become a normal part of daily life for early adolescents. Many young students switch between schoolwork, videos, gaming, and social media throughout the day. Some of this use is helpful and even necessary, especially for learning. However, long hours on screens are concerning and affect attention, memory, and overall thinking skills. Sleep disturbance caused by late-night screen use may also influence how well students perform in school. Objective: To explore how daily screen-time habits relate to basic cognitive functions in early adolescents aged 11 to 14 years. The focus was on attention, working memory, processing speed, and sleep quality. Methodology: This study used a cross-sectional design to examine associations between screen-time habits and cognitive functioning in early adolescents. We recruited 100 students, aged 12 to 14 years, from four different schools. Schools were selected through convenience sampling within the local region; within each school, students were approached randomly during regular school hours after obtaining permission from school authorities and parental consent. Students with known neurological, developmental, or serious health conditions were excluded to avoid confounding. Each participant completed a self-administered questionnaire capturing their daily screen-time habits. Participants completed a short sleep-quality scale, adapted from existing sleep questionnaires, to report usual bedtime, wake-up time, sleep disturbances, and subjective sleep quality. Cognitive assessment of participants was carried out using standardized short tasks. Pearson correlation analyses were conducted to explore linear relationships and multiple linear regression models were constructed to test the predictive value. Results: Students who spent more than three hours a day on recreational screens, especially at night, showed lower attention and weaker working-memory scores. Their reaction times were slower, and many reported disturbed sleep. On the other hand, moderate academic screen use did not show major negative effects and, in some cases, showed slightly better performance. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that parents and teachers should guide early adolescents toward healthy and balanced screen habits. It is important to limit recreational or entertainment screen time, especially during the evening, as this can affect sleep and overall brain function. Encouraging good
Copyright (c) 2025 Usama Binn Siddique, Rubab Adil, Wafa Kaynaat (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Contemporary Perspectives on Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: Integrating Precision Medicine, Minimally Invasive Techniques, and Long-Term Outcomes
Coronary artery bypass grafting is the gold standard for surgical revascularization of complex coronary artery disease. Three decades have passed since CABG was developed, and with it, there have been developments in choices of conduit, cardiopulmonary technology, and perioperative management that have significantly enhanced survival and quality of life. However, advanced technology and precision medicine are now transforming the CABG model from mass-produced surgical practice to more individualized, data-driven care. Post-genomic biomarker risk profiling, artificial intelligence-driven risk prediction, and machine learning-powered imaging have made patient-specific risk stratification and conduit optimization possible. This has been followed by minimally invasive direct CABG, robotically assisted CABG, and hybrid revascularization methods, expanding the therapeutic armamentarium with less injury and quicker rehabilitation, but with preserved long-term graft patency. They have performed equally or better in carefully chosen populations but have been encumbered by their wider application by procedure complexity, cost, and the unavailability of large-scale randomized trials with precision-guided methods. There is increasing evidence that the incorporation of multi-arterial grafting, AI-driven perioperative planning, and personalized pharmacogenomic therapy will continue to improve graft survival and long-term cardiovascular outcomes. However, there are significant knowledge gaps in how best to incorporate precision technologies, patient selection for minimally invasive operations, and the ethics of AI-driven decision-making. Coronary artery disease multivessel and complex revascularization by CABG are more or less the same, signifying long-term survival and durability. Sixty years since its beginning, Conclusion: CABG is still developing as a biological science of genomics, engineering, data science, and surgical innovation. In the modern era, the development of the specialty also marks the demise and death of one-size-fits-all medicine for a precision-based, patient-specific specialty, in which every aspect, from conduit selection to postoperative care, is tailored to the patient's biological and clinical profile.
Copyright (c) 2025 Naosheen Ashiq, Farhan Mukhtar, Shahzaib Hassan, Iram Hassan, Asia Altaf (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Neuroplastic Changes Associated with Speech Therapy in Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation
Background: Traumatic brain injury is a major cause of acquired communication disorders in Pakistan, often resulting in long-term speech and language impairments. Despite growing awareness of the link between speech therapy and neural recovery, local research exploring neuroplastic changes remains limited. Objective: To investigate the neuroplastic changes associated with structured speech therapy among traumatic brain injury patients undergoing rehabilitation at Lahore General Hospital, Lahore, and to evaluate its effectiveness in improving speech performance and functional communication. Methodology: A mixed-methods design was employed with 20 adult participants diagnosed with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury, aged between 18 and 55 years were recruited through purposive sampling, verified through CT or MRI imaging, with a post-injury duration of three to twelve months, and the presence of speech or language impairments as determined by the Western Aphasia Battery. Patients with progressive neurological disorders, notable hearing loss, or psychiatric comorbidities were excluded from the study. Each received individualized speech therapy sessions three times a week for 12 weeks. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included functional MRI and EEG scans to track cortical reorganization, along with standardized speech evaluations measuring articulation, fluency, and intelligibility. The qualitative insights were gathered through semi-structured interviews with patients and caregivers. Differences in pre- and post-intervention speech performance were evaluated using paired t-tests, and correlations between neuroimaging and behavioral outcomes were determined using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Results: Neuroimaging revealed increased cortical activation in perilesional and contralateral hemispheres post-therapy. Statistically notable improvements were observed in articulation clarity and verbal fluency (p<0.05). Participants also reported enhanced confidence and communication in daily interactions. Conclusion: Findings demonstrate that structured speech therapy promotes measurable neuroplastic changes that correspond with improved speech outcomes in TBI patients. Incorporating such interventions within Pakistan’s rehabilitation programs could meaningfully improve recovery and quality of life for individuals with brain injury.
Copyright (c) 2025 Healer Journal of Biomedical and Health Sciences https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Effects of Respiratory Muscle Training Integrated Rehabilitation on Post-Operative Recovery after Cardiac Surgery
Background: Cardiac surgery commonly leads to reduced lung capacity, weak respiratory muscles, and limited mobility during the early post-operative period. In Pakistan, structured cardiac rehabilitation is not routinely practiced, and Respiratory Muscle Training is rarely included as part of standard physiotherapy. Considering limited resources and the high burden of post-operative complications, there is a need to assess simple, low-cost interventions that can support faster recovery in local cardiac care units. Objective: To evaluate the effect of integrating respiratory muscle training into a structured rehabilitation program on post-operative recovery among cardiac surgery patients in Pakistan. Methodology: This quasi-experimental study was conducted at Punjab Institute of Cardiology, Lahore, Pakistan, from August to November 2024. A total of 60 post-operative cardiac surgery patients were recruited through non-probability consecutive sampling and allocated into an intervention group (n=30) and a control group (n=30). The intervention group received respiratory muscle training-integrated rehabilitation, including incentive spirometry, diaphragmatic breathing, inspiratory muscle training using a threshold device, early mobilization, and graded functional activity for 7 consecutive days. The control group received routine post-operative physiotherapy. Lung function tests, inspiratory muscle strength, and functional capacity were recorded on day 1 and 7. Data were analysed using SPSS version 26, with p <0.05 considered significant. Paired t-tests were used to compare pre- and post-intervention results within each group, while independent t-tests compared changes between groups. Results: The intervention group showed significantly greater improvement in lung function tests, inspiratory muscle strength, and 6-minute walk test distance (p<0.01) compared to the control group. Reduced pulmonary complications and a shorter hospital stay were also observed. Conclusion: Respiratory muscle training -integrated rehabilitation is a feasible, low-cost, and effective approach to enhance early post-operative recovery after cardiac surgery in Pakistan, and should be incorporated into routine physiotherapy practice.
Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Present Utilization, Key Challenges, and Emerging Opportunities
Background: Artificial Intelligence has rapidly emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, supporting advancements in clinical practice, diagnostics, treatment planning, and health system management. Its integration has improved accuracy, efficiency, and personalised patient care. However, alongside these advancements, significant challenges hinder its optimal utilization and widespread adoption. Objective: This review aims to examine the current utilization of AI in healthcare, identify key challenges associated with its development and implementation, and highlight emerging opportunities that can shape the future of AI-driven healthcare. Methodology: A narrative review methodology was adopted. Relevant peer-reviewed articles, reports, and policy documents published between 2014 and 2024 were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Keywords included “Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare,” “AI Applications,” “Healthcare Challenges,” and “Opportunities in AI.” Literature was screened for relevance and synthesised to provide an overview of current applications, challenges, and future opportunities. Results: AI is currently utilized in diagnostic imaging, predictive analytics, clinical decision support, telemedicine, robotic surgery, drug discovery, and personalised medicine. These applications contribute to faster diagnosis, improved treatment outcomes, and enhanced healthcare efficiency. However, adoption remains limited due to challenges such as data privacy concerns, algorithmic bias, high implementation costs, lack of clinician training, and insufficient regulatory clarity. Emerging opportunities include explainable AI, enhanced data governance, interdisciplinary collaboration, and increased access to AI-driven tools through scalable digital health solutions. Conclusion: AI holds substantial potential to advance healthcare delivery. Addressing existing challenges through ethical practices, strengthened regulations, capacity building, and equitable access will be essential for harnessing AI’s emerging opportunities to improve global health outcomes.
Assessment of Speech Intelligibility and Its Influencing Factors in Hearing-Impaired Children
Background: Background: Speech intelligibility is a key determinant of communication ability in children with hearing impairment. Limitations in auditory input, delayed amplification, and inadequate speech therapy often lead to reduced intelligibility, affecting language, learning, and social interaction. Objective: To assess speech intelligibility in hearing-impaired children and identify the primary factors influencing intelligibility outcomes, including degree of hearing loss, age at intervention, type of amplification device, and duration of speech therapy. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among children aged 5-12 years with bilateral sensorineural hearing loss using hearing aids or cochlear implants for at least one year. They were attending speech or auditory-verbal therapy and were able to speak in short phrases. Children who had additional intellectual or motor problems, inconsistent device use, or mixed hearing loss were not included. Speech intelligibility was evaluated using standardized speech samples rated by trained listeners on a five-point scale. Demographic and clinical data were obtained from audiological records and caregiver interviews. The mean and standard deviation were calculated for number-based data, and percentages were used for categories. Statistical analyses, including Pearson correlation and multiple regression, were applied to determine the predictors of intelligibility. Results: Findings revealed that children with mild to moderate hearing loss demonstrated significantly higher intelligibility scores than those with severe to profound loss (p<0.05). Earlier fitting of amplification devices and greater duration of speech therapy were strongly associated with improved intelligibility. Children using cochlear implants generally outperformed those using hearing aids, though individual variability was observed. Conclusion: Speech intelligibility in hearing-impaired children is influenced by multiple interrelated factors. Early identification, timely amplification, and consistent speech-language therapy significantly enhance speech outcomes. These results highlight the importance of comprehensive auditory rehabilitation programs focused on early intervention and targeted speech training to optimize communication abilities in hearing-impaired children.
Pre-hypertension, Hypertension, and Obesity among Banking Employees in Lahore: A Cross-Sectional Study
Background: Hypertension is a major non-communicable disease and a growing public health concern in Pakistan. Sedentary work patterns, limited physical activity, and psychosocial stress significantly contribute to its rising prevalence. Occupational groups such as banking employees, who face prolonged sitting and high work pressure, are particularly prone to cardiovascular risk factors. Objective: To determine the prevalence of pre-hypertension, hypertension, and obesity among banking employees in Lahore, Pakistan, and assess their association with clinical and behavioral risk factors. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 banking employees from five major commercial banks in Lahore using stratified random sampling. The study population comprised full-time employees aged 22–55 years, including clerical staff, customer service officers, and mid-level management. Employees with known secondary hypertension, severe cardiovascular disease, pregnancy, or any condition limiting participation in physical assessments were excluded. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire on sociodemographic factors, physical activity, dietary habits, smoking, and perceived stress. Blood pressure was recorded using standard protocols, and body mass index and waist circumference were measured. Chi-square tests assessed associations between blood pressure and risk factors, while logistic regression identified independent predictors. Results: The prevalence of pre-hypertension and hypertension was 34.8% and 29.6%, respectively. Overweight and obesity were found in 36.0% and 28.8% of participants, respectively, while central obesity affected 42.0% of participants. Elevated blood pressure was more common among males, employees over 40 years old, those with a higher body mass index, and those with low physical activity. Logistic regression identified obesity, central obesity, age, and perceived stress as independent predictors (p<0.05). Conclusion: A high prevalence of hypertension and obesity exists among banking employees in Lahore. Workplace-based interventions that promote regular screening, physical activity, and stress management are essential for reducing cardiovascular risk.