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Abstract.[Purpose] The purpose of this study is to evaluate the reliability of linear and nonlinear measures of the center of pressure (COP) during visual deprivation. [Conclusion] The Lyapunov exponent can be considered an appropriate postural control index, and the evaluation of postural stability should be done by considering linear and nonlinear tools.

[Purpose] Although lifting tasks has been recognized as a primary risk factor in low back pain, the concept of lifting asymmetry is relatively new subject. To address trunk function, biomechanical studies generally measure trunk muscle activity using surface electromyography (EMG). But so far, magnitude and similarity index (SI) obtained from EMG have not been studied as indicators of the motor control during lifting task. So, the purpose of this study is to compare the trunk muscles magnitude and SI during symmetric and asymmetric lifting. [Subjects and Methods] A total of 20 healthy male with no history of lumbar spine disorders participated. Surface electromyography data were recorded from the 7 trunk muscles while the participants performed symmetric and asymmetric lifting and lowering different loads. [Results] According to Multivariate ANOVAs the phase of motion (lifting, lowering) and condition (symmetry, asymmetry) have a significant effect on SI and magnitude (p≤0.05). Load changes have no effect on SI (p=0.969) but have a significant effect on magnitude (p≤0.05). The magnitude and SI value is higher in asymmetrical lifting and lowering compare to symmetrical condition. [Conclusion] The findings reveal the SI value is higher in asymmetric conditions. This means that the amount of muscles co-contracture increased during asymmetrical conditions. Increased muscles co-contracture reinforces the hypothesis of exerting more compression on the spine in asymmetrical movement. Keywords: Asymmetrical lifting, Motor control, Electromyography

Physiotherapy requires close and prolonged contact of physical therapist with patient during several sessions. For this reason, many associations in other countries have formulated code of ethics for physiotherapy which referred to the most important responsibilities in this field. Despite formulation of ethical codes in many countries, these codes have not yet been outlined in Iran. Therefore, this research has been conducted to identify the physiotherapy ethical imperfections and challenges and in Iran. Materials and Methods: This study was a qualitative research in which methods of interview with authorities and focused group discussions were used. Participants in this study were 15 persons, who were purposefully selected from four professional groups including physicians, physical therapists, specialists on medical ethics and directors of physiotherapy centers. Results: After data saturation, texts of interviews were typed verbatim. These texts were repeatedly studied by the interviewer and their results were 187 raw and rudimentary sentences. Extracted data were analyzed, reviewed and revised by the authorities on the subject and eventually the data were arranged in 4 domains of patient, physician, physical therapist, and treatment center. Conclusion: Findings of this research indicate the ethical challenges present in our country in the field of physiotherapy in four domains. To promote professional ethics in physiotherapy, all four parties should be aware of their rights and duties and follow ethical principles and regulations.

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