The Australian Physiotherapy Association’s (APA) Journal of Physiotherapy publishes local and international scientifically rigorous, clinical research in physiotherapy to demonstrate its role in improving health and wellbeing outcomes.

'From lung cancer physiotherapy management, to outcomes for people with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures, the latest Journal of Physiotherapy is a snapshot of the breadth of scope and calibre of research in the field,' said editor Mark Elkins, who is also a co-director of the Centre for Evidence-Based Physiotherapy and an Associate Professor at the University of Sydney.

'These studies have important health implications for patients, physiotherapists and other health practitioners.' 

In the second issue for 2016, the following studies have been published:

• Moderate-intensity exercise reduces fatigue and improves mobility in cancer survivors: a systematic review and meta-regression – While the benefits of exercise for people with cancer are known, the ideal intensity of exercise remains unknown. This study by Amy Dennett and colleagues from La Trobe University in Melbourne found moderate-intensity exercise is recommended as the most appropriate aerobic exercise intensity to achieve benefits in fatigue and walking endurance.
   
• Physiotherapy management of lung cancer – published by the University of Melbourne’s Dr Catherine Granger, this review investigates the key role physiotherapists play in managing people with lung cancer, particularly in prescribing appropriate exercise training at various stages of disease, treatment, recovery and palliation. It highlights extensive evidence of the effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions in helping patients manage symptoms, maintain ability to exercise and care for themselves.
   
• Massage therapy decreases pain and perceived fatigue after long-distance Ironman triathlon: a randomised trial – The most common symptoms for Ironman participants after a race are pain and muscle fatigue. This study from Guilherme Nunes and colleagues in Brazil is the first research to show massage therapy was more effective than no intervention on the post-race recovery – managing pain and perceived fatigue – in long-distance triathlon athletes.
   
• Activity preferences, lifestyle modifications and re-injury fears influence longer-term quality of life in people with knee symptoms following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a qualitative study – This study by Stephanie Filbay and colleagues from Brisbane and Melbourne indicates that finding a way to return to an active lifestyle after an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture is crucial for longer-term happiness and satisfaction. It finds activity preferences, lifestyle modifications and fear of re-injury influenced quality of life in people with knee symptoms up to 20 years following ACL reconstruction. This study shows that physiotherapy can help people after ACL repair transition to an appropriate, physically active, satisfying lifestyle.