19 August 2026
Three Academic Studies from IGU Published in the Proceedings Book of the II. International Cappadocia Academic Studies Congress
Three scientific studies contributed by Istanbul Gelisim University academics, addressing action observation therapy in neurological rehabilitation, functional independence and family impact in cerebral palsy, and the immediate effects of spinal mobilization in volleyball players, were included in the proceedings book of the II. International Cappadocia Academic Studies Congress, held on July 17–19, 2026.
Proceedings Book of the II. International Cappadocia Academic Studies Congress Published
Three scientific studies contributed by Istanbul Gelisim University academics in the fields of neurological rehabilitation, cerebral palsy, and sports rehabilitation were included in the proceedings book of the II. International Cappadocia Academic Studies Congress, held on July 17–19, 2026.
The II. International Cappadocia Academic Studies Congress, held in Göreme, Nevşehir on July 17–19, 2026, brought together researchers from different disciplines to share current scientific studies with the academic community. With the publication of the congress proceedings book, three studies involving Istanbul Gelisim University academics and contributing to the field of physiotherapy and rehabilitation have also taken their place in the publication.
The Effect of Action Observation Therapy on Functional Recovery in Neurological Rehabilitation
The study by Res. Asst. İremnur Günhan from Istanbul Gelisim University Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation (English), addressed the effects of Action Observation Therapy (AOT) on functional recovery in neurological rehabilitation.
The study evaluated current scientific evidence concerning AOT, which supports motor learning through activation of the mirror neuron system, particularly in neurological conditions including stroke, Parkinson's disease, cerebral palsy, and traumatic brain injury.
Findings reported in the literature indicate that adding AOT to conventional rehabilitation programs may contribute to improvements in upper extremity function, walking performance, balance, and activities of daily living. The study also emphasized the need to establish standardized protocols for different patient groups and investigate long-term outcomes.
Investigation of the Relationship Between Functional Independence Level and Family Impact in Parents of Individuals with Cerebral Palsy
The study conducted by Assist. Prof. Suzan Aydın and Dr. Özlem Güngör investigated the relationship between the functional independence level of individuals with cerebral palsy and the family impact experienced by their parents.
Thirty parents of individuals with cerebral palsy receiving rehabilitation services participated in the study. Functional independence was assessed using the Functional Independence Measure for Children (WeeFIM), while family impact was evaluated using the Family Impact Scale.
A strong negative relationship was identified between functional independence and family impact. Functional independence was found to explain 62.3% of the variance in family impact. The findings support the importance of family-centered approaches in physiotherapy and rehabilitation.
Immediate Effects of Spinal Mobilization on the Mechanical Properties of the Upper Trapezius Muscle in Volleyball Players
The study by Lect. Hande Besna Göçen and Dr. Ayça Aklar investigated the immediate effects of spinal mobilization on the mechanical properties of the upper trapezius muscle in adolescent female volleyball players.
Thirty-two female athletes from the Eczacıbaşı Sports Club youth volleyball team participated in the research. Mechanical properties of the muscle were assessed using the MyotonPro device. The control group performed eccentric motor control exercises, while the experimental group additionally received spinal mobilization at the C3-C4 level.
Although no significant change was detected in muscle stiffness, a statistically significant improvement in the relaxation parameter was observed in the group receiving spinal mobilization. The findings indicate that spinal mobilization may positively affect the post-loading relaxation capacity and viscoelastic behavior of the upper trapezius muscle.
Multidimensional Contribution to Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Research
Covering a broad range of topics from neurorehabilitation and pediatric rehabilitation to family-centered care, sports health, and manual therapy, the studies reflect the scientific contributions of Istanbul Gelisim University academics to physiotherapy and rehabilitation and their research focusing on current clinical approaches.
The studies published within the scope of the II. International Cappadocia Academic Studies Congress can be accessed through the official congress e-book page, while the full proceedings book can be viewed via the links below.