https://medicalxpress.com/health-other-news/ en-us Latest medical news and research in Allied health For many in the workforce, spending hours at a computer is an unavoidable part of daily life. Sitting for prolonged periods in the same position can contribute to low back pain (LBP), which affects up to 80% of people over their lifetime and remains a leading cause of disability worldwide. A group of French researchers decided to find out whether wearing a soft, flexible lower-back support belt can help people with common, unexplained lower back pain feel better and move more easily. https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-09-soft-belts-ease-everyday-pain.html Tue, 08 Sep 2026 09:30:01 EDT news708076124 Those experiencing worsening voice quality—in pitch, clarity, volume, reduced vocal range or other voice disorders—and no hearing loss may be at 58% greater risk of cognitive impairment or dementia than those who are not experiencing a voice disorder, according to the first large-scale study of diagnosed voice disorders and cognitive decline. https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-09-voice-disorder-early-dementia.html Fri, 04 Sep 2026 10:00:08 EDT news707733841 Many studies have demonstrated that music-based interventions—such as listening to music—can help reduce pain from a variety of conditions like cancer or osteoarthritis, but researchers still do not understand how or why they help. A new review study led by Joke Bradt, Ph.D., a professor in Drexel University's College of Nursing and Health Professions, examined biological, psychological and social mechanisms that may explain the pain-reducing effects of music. The study, recently published in PAIN Reports, identified important gaps that future research on music-based interventions for pain relief should address. https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-09-music-ease-pain-evidence.html Thu, 03 Sep 2026 15:40:09 EDT news707659262 Researchers have evaluated a novel smart wheeled walker designed to enhance mobility and safety for aging populations. Published in JMIR Aging, the randomized crossover trial revealed that the smart wheeled walker significantly improved walking speed, reduced exertion and boosted dynamic balance compared with a traditional 4-wheeled rollator. The study was led by Dr. Phurichaya Werasirirat, Dr. Pornpimol Muanjai, Dr. Oranat Sukkho, Dr. Nongnuch Luangpon and Dr. Juntip Namsawang from the Department of Physical Therapy at Burapha University in Thailand, alongside Dr. Audrius Snieckus from the Lithuanian Sports University. https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-09-smart-walker-boosts-efficiency-dynamic.html Tue, 01 Sep 2026 15:20:08 EDT news707483647 Physical activity in adulthood may depend on exercise during growth, according to a new study led by Penn State researchers. The study, conducted in birds, is the first to directly demonstrate that experiences during development influence how efficiently adults use energy during movement. https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-08-bird-bulking-youth-decreases-energy.html Mon, 24 Aug 2026 16:00:02 EDT news706800842