MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders' source. Sat, 13 Mar 2010 15:01:19 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3356613&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F48 Conclusions: The increased number of hip fracture in elderly women is more likely to be attributable to demographic changes in the population than to secular increase in the prevalence of osteoporosis. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3356613 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3356613 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3352380&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F47 Background: To investigate prospectively the patient-relevant outcome 7 years after total hip replacement (THR) for osteoarthritis (OA).Method219 consecutive patients (120 women) with primary OA, mean age 71 (range 50-92) were assigned for THR. They were examined preoperatively, at 3, 6, 12 months, and at 4, 5 and 7 years postoperatively with the self-administered questionnaires SF-36 and WOMAC. Supplementary questions regarding postoperative complications, general co-morbidity, social circumstances and patient satisfaction were asked at the three last follow-ups. A reference group, 117 subjects (67 women), mean age 72 (range 52-92) without hip complaints were recruited from the community and investigated at the same times. Results: 151/170 (89%) of the patients and 65/74 (88%) of the refe... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3352380 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3352380 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3352381&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F46 The objectives of the present study were to evaluate the influence of load and speed on cervical FRP electromyographic (EMG) and kinematic parameters and to assess the measurement of cervical FRP kinematic and EMG parameter repeatability. Methods: Eighteen healthy adults (6 women and 12 men), aged 20 to 39 years, participated in this study. They undertook 2 sessions in which they had to perform a standardized cervical flexion-extension movement in 3 phases: complete cervical flexion; the static period in complete cervical flexion; and extension with return to the initial position. Two different rhythm conditions and 3 different loading conditions were applied to assess load and speed effects. Kinematic and EMG data were collected, and dependent variables included angles corresponding to th... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3352381 Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3352381 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3348678&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F45 Conclusions: A difference may exist in EMG activity within some muscles, in particular upper and lower trapezius, between people with SIS and healthy controls. These muscles may be targets for clinical interventions aiding rehabilitation for people with SIS. These differences should be investigated in a larger, high quality survey and the effects of therapeutically targeting these muscles in a randomised controlled trial. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3348678 Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3348678 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3340915&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F44 Conclusion: Temporal artery edema demonstrated as halo sign should be always looked for in ultrasonography when GCA is suspected. Providing that currently accepted technical quality criteria are fulfilled, halo sign's sensitivity and specificity are comparable to those of autoantibodies used as diagnostic tests in rheumatology. Validation of revised GCA classification criteria which will include the halo sign may be warranted. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3340915 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3340915 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3337089&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F42 Background, fibromyalgia is a relatively common condition with widespread pain and pressure allodynia, but unknown aetiology. For decades, the association between motor control strategies and chronic pain has been a topic for debate. One long held functional neuromuscular control mechanism is differential activation between regions within a single muscle. The aim of this study was to investigate differences in neuromuscular control, i.e. differential activation, between myalgic trapezius in fibromyalgia patients and healthy controls.Methods, 27 fibromyalgia patients and 30 healthy controls performed 3 minutes bilateral shoulder elevations with different loads (0-4 Kg) with a high-density surface electromyographical (EMG) grid placed above the upper trapezius. Differential activation was qu... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3337089 Fri, 05 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3337089 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3337088&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F43 Conclusions: Improved muscle function in lower limbs was also reflected when patient experiences with Tai Chi were studied in depth in this explorative study. The combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods shows that Tai Chi has beneficial effects on health not related to disease activity and standardised health status assessment, and may contribute to an understanding of how Tai Chi exerts its effects.Trial registration: NCT00522054 (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3337088 Fri, 05 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3337088 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3325226&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F41 Background: Adiposity is a modifiable factor that has been implicated in tendinopathy. As tendon pain reduces physical activity levels and can lead to weight gain, associations between tendon pathology and adiposity must be studied in individuals without tendon pain. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine whether fat distribution was associated with asymptomatic Achilles tendon pathology. Methods: The Achilles tendons of 298 individuals were categorised as normal or pathological using diagnostic ultrasound. Fat distribution was determined using anthropometry (waist circumference, waist hip ratio [WHR]) and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Results: Asymptomatic Achilles tendon pathology was more evident in men (13%) than women (5%) (p=0.007). Men with tendon pathology were o... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3325226 Tue, 02 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3325226 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3320086&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F40 Conclusion: Results of this study will provide preliminary evidence regarding the value of Tai Chi as an intervention for decreasing fracture risk in osteopenic women. They will also inform the feasibility, value and potential limitations related to the use of pragmatic designs for the study of Tai Chi and related mind-body exercise. If the results are positive, this will help focus future, more in-depth, research on the most promising potential mechanisms of action identified by this study.Trial registration: This trial is registered in Clinical Trials.gov, with the ID number ofNCT01039012. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3320086 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3320086 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3317341&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F39 Conclusions: The findings of this immediate test-retest reliability study suggest that the clinical measurement of the thoracic kyphosis using gravity dependent inclinometers demonstrates excellent intra-rater reliability. Additional research is required to determine the inter-rater reliability of this method.Trial registration.National Research Register: N0060148286 (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3317341 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3317341 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3313367&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F37 After the this work was published in provisional form we realized a major error with regard to contents.On page 4, in the first paragraph of the second column, the third sentence scores collected using different grading systems were compared. The differences "comparing the preoperative with the conservative patients, the students, and the joggers group respectively" was p = 0.000 for each individual comparison. Therefore in line eight and nine the term "...did not differ..." inverts this context. That phrase therefore has to be corrected to: "...differed significantly..."The authors regret any inconvenience potentially caused by this error. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3313367 Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3313367 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3281699&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F35 Conclusions: The results of this study are in contrast with literature that has reported an association between bone mass and serum prolactin levels, serum magnesium levels and type of received antipsychotics. Further study to investigate the pathophysiological process and the association between bone mass and serum prolactin level, serum magnesium level and specific antipsychotics is necessary. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3281699 Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3281699 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3281698&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F36 Conclusion: Despite the modest sample size, these results support the benefits of exercise and manual therapy in the clinical management of patients with osteoporotic vertebral fractures, but need to be confirmed in a larger sample.Trail registration: NCT00638768 (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3281698 Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3281698 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3278050&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F33 We present the rationale and design of an ongoing RCT study that potentially offers an easily implemented treatment strategy for LBP patients in primary care. The results will be available in 2012.Trial registration: ISRCTN ref no CCT-NAPN-18665 (registered 170409) (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3278050 Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3278050 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3278049&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F34 Background: Angiogenesis plays a role in the progression of osteosarcoma, as well as in other mesenchymal tumors and carcinomas, and it is most commonly assessed by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression or tumor CD31-positive microvessel density (MVD). Tumor VEGF expression is predictive of poor prognosis, and chemotherapy can affect the selection of angiogenic pattern. The aim of the study was to investigate the clinical and prognostic significance of VEGF and CD31 in osteosarcoma, both at diagnosis and after neoadjuvant chemotherapy, in order to identify a potential role of chemotherapy in angiogenic phenotype. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on 16 patients with high grade osteosarcoma. In each case archival pre-treatment biopsy tissue and post-chemotherapy... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3278049 Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3278049 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3264957&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F31 Conclusions: ESCAPE-knee pain appears to achieve improvements by increasing people's treatment belief in safety and the utility of exercise to control symptoms, rather than alteration in their beliefs about causation or prognosis.Trial Registration. Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN94658828 (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3264957 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3264957 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3264956&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F32 Conclusions: Myofascial pain was estimated a prevalent condition. Despite a variety of commonly prescribed treatments, the moderate effectiveness ratings and the frequent characterizations of the available treatments as insufficient suggest an urgent need for clinical research to establish evidence-based guidelines for the treatment of myofascial pain syndrome. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3264956 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3264956 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3256941&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F30 Conclusion: We did not find statistically significant differences between eight weeks of supervised or unsupervised Nordic walking and advice to remain active in a group of chronic low back pain patients. Nevertheless, the greatest average improvement tended to favor the supervised Nordic walking group and - taking into account other health related benefits of Nordic walking - this form of exercise may potentially be of benefit to selected groups of chronic back pain patients.Trial registration: http://www.ClinicalTrials.gov # NCT00209820 (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3256941 Wed, 10 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3256941 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3252763&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F28 DiscussionThe TOPGAME-study is the first RCT to study the effectiveness of patient-guided ESWT in athletes with patellar tendinopathy who are still in training and competition.[Trial registration number NTR1408] (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3252763 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3252763 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3241875&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F26 Conclusions: Combined manual therapy, like naprapathy, is effective in the short and in the long term, and might be considered for patients with non-specific back and/or neck pain.Trial registration: Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN56954776. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3241875 Fri, 05 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3241875 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3233858&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F23 DiscussionLife course concepts can be divided into three categories. Concept 1: patterns over time, risk chains and accumulation. Simple 'chains of risk' have been studied - e.g. depression leading to back pain - but studies involving more risk factors in the chain are infrequent. Also, we have not examined how risk accumulation influences outcome, e.g. whether multiple episodes or duration of depression, throughout the life course, better predicts back pain. One-year back pain trajectories have been described, and show advantages for studying back pain, but there are few descriptions of longer-term patterns with associated transitions and turning points. Concept 2: influences and determinants of pathways. Analyses in back pain studies commonly adjust associations for potential confounders... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3233858 Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3233858 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3222153&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F21 Conclusions: The Norwegian version of the EC-17 has evidence for data quality, internal consistency and test-retest reliability, construct validity and responsiveness to change. The EC-17 seems promising as an outcome measure for evaluating self-management interventions for people with rheumatic conditions, but further studies are needed. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3222153 Fri, 29 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3222153 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3218685&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F20 Conclusions: In summary, we found no consistent relationship between diet and BMD despite finding a positive association between a diet high in energy dense foods and higher body mass index and a strong correlation between body mass index and BMD. Our data suggest that some factor related to the energy dense dietary pattern may partially offset the advantages of higher body mass index with regard to bone health. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3218685 Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3218685 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3214582&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F19 Conclusion: Our findings suggest that OA is a whole joint disease. Meniscal cells may play an active role in the development of OA. Investigation of the gene expression profiles of OA meniscal cells may reveal new therapeutic targets for OA therapy and also may uncover novel disease markers for early diagnosis of OA. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3214582 Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3214582 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3214583&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F18 Conclusion: Our observation supports the hypothesis that T cells are involved in the pathogenesis of PWCD. Thus, T cell modifying drugs should be primarily used to treat patients with this rare disorder. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3214583 Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3214583 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3210354&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F17 DiscussionThis trial will determine whether the outcome of spinal surgery can be enhanced by either a post-operative rehabilitation programme or an evidence-based advice booklet or a combination of the two and as such will contribute to our knowledge on how to manage spinal surgery patients in the post-operative period.Current controlled trials ISRCTN46782945UK CRN ID: 2670 (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3210354 Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3210354 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3206776&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F16 Conclusion: Most patients undergoing intra-or peri-articular injections, synovial fluid aspirations and spine injections suffer from procedural pain. Most patients experience usually mild procedural pain and procedural pain management is uncommonly provided by physicians. Specific research and guidelines for the management of procedural pain related to rheumatologic care should be established to improve the quality of care provided by physicians. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3206776 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3206776 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3202911&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F15 Conclusion: This study confirmed our hypothesis that collagen types 1, 3, TGF-beta1 and TGF-beta3 were up-regulated in biopsy specimens obtained from patients with GMC. Complex interaction of TGF-beta1 with profibrotic function and TGF-beta3 with antifibrotic function may increase synthesis of collagens and thereby significantly contribute to the process of gluteal muscle scarring in patients with GMC. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3202911 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3202911 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3202912&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F14 DiscussionThis paper presents details on the rationale of MTU, design, methods and operational aspects of the trial.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00713843 (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3202912 Sun, 24 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3202912 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3187471&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F12 Conclusions: A high proportion of Nigerian nurses reported WMSDs at some body site in their occupational lives with the low back being injured most often. Education programmes on prevention and coping strategies for musculoskeletal disorders are recommended for nurses in order to reduce the rate of occupational hazards and also promote efficiency in patient care. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3187471 Wed, 20 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3187471 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3184086&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F11 Conclusions: Patients presenting with PFP of long duration who score worse on the KPS have a poorer prognosis, irrespective of age, gender and morphometry. These results suggest that strategies aimed at preventing chronicity of more severe PFP may optimise prognosis. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3184086 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3184086 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3181140&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F10 Conclusions: TSCs exhibit distinct properties compared to tenocytes, including differences in cell marker expression, proliferative and differentiation potential, and cell morphology in culture. Future research should investigate the mechanobiology of TSCs and explore the possibility of using TSCs to more effectively repair or regenerate injured tendons. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3181140 Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3181140 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3177681&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F9 Background: The radioulnar carpal joint is critical for hand and wrist function. Radioulnar deviation indicates distal radioulnar joint flexibility and reflects the structure and function of the carpal bones, ulna, radius and ligaments. The present study examined whether radioulnar deviation is affected by gender, manual labor, playing a musical instrument, playing sport, handedness, previous fracture or prior inflammation. The study used clinical findings based on anatomical landmarks Methods: The ulnar, radial and total deviations for both left and right hands were measured in 300 subjects (157 men and 143 women) of mean age 21.7 years. Measurements were made with the forearm in a fixed pronated position using a novel specially designed goniometer. The gender of each subject was recorded... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3177681 Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3177681 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3169505&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F8 Background: Hip replacement (arthroplasty) surgery is a highly successful treatment for patients with severe symptomatic arthritis of the hip joint. For older patients, several designs of Total Hip Arthroplasty have shown excellent results in terms of both function and value for money. However, in younger more active patients, there is approximately a 50% failure rate at 25 years for traditional implants. Hip resurfacing is a relatively new arthroplasty technique. In a recent review of the literature on resurfacing arthroplasty it was concluded that the short-term functional results appear promising but some potential early disadvantages were identified, including the risk of femoral neck fracture and collapse of the head of the femur.The aim of the current study is to assess whether there... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3169505 Thu, 14 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3169505 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3161924&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F7 DiscussionThe successful completion of this trial would lead to a better understanding of which medication should be used in the treatment of primary care patients with mild knee osteoarthritis.Trial registration: Dutch trial registry NTR1485. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3161924 Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3161924 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3144349&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F6 Conclusions: Many injury-related and psycho social factors affect the duration of time away from work following orthopaedic injury. Some of these are potentially modifiable and may be amenable to intervention. Further consideration of the reasons provided by participants for returning to work may provide important opportunities for social marketing approaches designed to alleviate the financial and social burden associated with work disability. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3144349 Tue, 05 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3144349 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3140743&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F5 This study will be a cluster-randomised controlled trial comparing screening and a subsequent risk tailored intervention for patients with low back pain to prevent chronic low back pain compared to treatment as usual in primary care. A total of 600 patients from 20 practices in each study arm will be recruited in Berlin and Goettingen. The intervention comprises the following elements: Patients will be assigned to one of four risk groups based on a screening questionnaire. Subsequently they receive an educational intervention including information and counselling tailored to the risk group. A telephone /email consulting service for back pain related problems are offered independent of risk group assignment. The primary outcomes will be functional capacity and sick leave.DiscussionThis tria... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3140743 Tue, 05 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3140743 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3140744&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F4 Conclusions: Citation analysis shows that specialized orthopaedic journals have specific self-citation tendencies. The correlation between self-cited rate and IF in our sample was large but, due to small sample size, not significant. The SJR excludes self-citations in its calculation and therefore enhances the underestimation in ranking of specialized journals. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3140744 Mon, 04 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3140744 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3138346&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F2 Conclusions: Although the sample may not be representative of the general community, the prevalence is considerably greater than those reported elsewhere even when the population of the catchment area is used as a denominator, (367/100 000). The common presentation of MSC with co-morbid diabetes and hypertension requires holistic management by appropriately trained health care practitioners. Any new determination of burden of disease due to MSC should recognise that these disorders may be more prevalent in developing countries than previously estimated. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3138346 Mon, 04 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3138346 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3138345&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F11%2F3 Conclusions: Failure of modular titanium alloy neck adapters can be initiated by surface micromotions due to surface contamination or highly loaded implant components. In the present study, the patients at risk were men with an average weight over 100 kg. Modular cobalt chrome neck adapters provide higher safety compared to titanium alloy material. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3138345 Mon, 04 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3138345 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3125803&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F166 Conclusions: Articular cartilage calcification is a common event in osteoarthritis of the hip. The amount of calcification correlates with clinical symptoms and histological OA grade. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3125803 Tue, 29 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3125803 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3125802&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F167 Conclusions: Red blood cell transfusion was associated with an adverse prognosis following primary THR, in particular with increased odds of death and pneumonia. Although the odds estimates may partly reflect unmeasured bias due to blood loss, they indicate the need for careful assessment of the risk versus benefit of transfusion even in relation to routine THR procedures. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3125802 Tue, 29 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3125802 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3117271&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F165 Background: Osteoporosis and osteoporotic fracture in men are significant public health problems in an aging society. However, information on male osteoporosis remains impressively lacking, especially for Asians. We designed the Fujiwara-kyo Osteoporosis Risk in Men (FORMEN) study as an ancillary study of a cohort study, the Fujiwara-kyo study, to determine risk factors for osteoporotic fractures in Japanese men. Methods: Design: A community-based single-centre prospective cohort study with at least a 5-year follow-upSubjects: All the male participants of the Fujiwara-kyo study who were living in the four cities studied, aged 65 years and older, and able to walk without aid from others.Primary outcome: Incidence of osteoporotic fractures including vertebral and clinical non-vertebral fract... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3117271 Thu, 24 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3117271 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3113281&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F164 Conclusions: The successful bone healing with osseous consolidation verifies the importance of the nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite in the treatment of metaphyseal osseous volume defects in the metaphyseal spongiosa. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3113281 Tue, 22 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3113281 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3109762&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F162 Conclusions: Compared with the population reference value, patients with FMS showed high frequency of cognitive impairment. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3109762 Mon, 21 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3109762 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3109761&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F163 Conclusions: This study demonstrated that neovascularity does occur in subjects with a clinical diagnosis of rotator cuff tendinopathy and to a lesser extent in asymptomatic shoulders. In addition, the findings of this investigation did not identify an association between the presence of neovascularity; and pain, duration of symptoms or shoulder function. Future research is required to determine the relevance of these findings. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3109761 Mon, 21 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3109761 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3103427&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F160 DiscussionThis trial will utilise high quality trial methodologies in accordance with CONSORT guidelines. The successful completion of this trial will provide evidence of the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a combined treatment approach for the management of chronic whiplash.Trial registration: ACTRN12609000470291 (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3103427 Fri, 18 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3103427 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3103426&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F161 Conclusions: The proposed QuickDASH-9 had a unidimensional structure and similar psychometric precision to the full-length DASH with improved practicality and completion time. The QuickDASH was invalid as its bidimensional structure made a single summated score inappropriate. The QuickDASH-9 offers a future direction for ongoing use of the QuickDASH concept. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3103426 Fri, 18 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3103426 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3094515&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F159 Conclusions: There is a significant relationship between the hallux angle in children and footwear that is too short in length. The fact that the majority of the children examined were wearing shoes of insufficient length makes the issue particularly significant. Our results emphasize the importance of ensuring that children's footwear fits properly. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3094515 Thu, 17 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3094515 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3094516&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F157 This study was aimed at evaluating whether or not patients with chronic type III acromioclavicular dislocation develop cervical spine pain and degenerative changes more frequently than normal subjects. Methods: The cervical spine of 34 patients with chronic type III AC dislocation was radiographically evaluated. Osteophytosis presence was registered and the narrowing of the intervertebral disc and cervical lordosis were evaluated. Subjective cervical symptoms were investigated using the Northwick Park Neck Pain Questionnaire (NPQ). One-hundred healthy volunteers were recruited as a control group. Results: The rate and distribution of osteophytosis and narrowed intervertebral disc were similar in both of the groups. Patients with chronic AC dislocation had a lower value of cervical lordosis... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3094516 Wed, 16 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3094516 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3077625&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F156 This study aims to assess the effectiveness, in terms of pain relief, and cost-effectiveness of a self-management package of treatment that includes TENS. Methods: The design of the study will be a two-group pragmatic randomized clinical trial. 240 participants aged 18 years and over with tennis elbow will be recruited from 20-30 GP practices in Staffordshire, UK. Participants are to be randomized on a 1:1 basis to receive either primary care management (standard GP consultation, medication, advice and education) or primary care management with the addition of TENS, over 6 weeks. Our primary outcome measure is average intensity of elbow pain in the past 24 hours (0-10 point numerical rating scale) at 6 weeks. Secondary outcomes include pain and limitation of function, global assessment of ... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3077625 Fri, 11 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3077625 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3069277&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F155 Background: Evidence suggests that to facilitate physical activity sedentary people may adhere to one component of exercise prescriptions (intensity, duration or frequency) without adhering to other components. Some experts have provided evidence for determinants of adherence to different components among healthy people. However, our understanding remains scarce in this area for patients with neck or low back pain. The aims of this study are to determine whether patients with neck or low back pain have different rates of adherence to exercise components of frequency per week and duration per session when prescribed with a home exercise program, and to identify if adherence to both exercise components have distinct predictive factors. Methods: A cohort of one hundred eighty-four patients wi... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3069277 Wed, 09 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3069277 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3065294&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F153 Conclusions: Disability appears to be a more important determinant of help-seeking than pain severity or anxiety and depression, for adults with chronic pain in hip or knee. The determinants of seeking help from alternative practitioners are different from determinants of consulting GPs, AHPs or a combination of different health care providers. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3065294 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3065294 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3058633&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F152 Conclusions: This article describes a randomised, double blind, controlled clinical trial with a one year follow up to investigate the effects of adding steroid injections to physiotherapy in acute lateral epicondylitis.Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00826462 (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3058633 Fri, 04 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3058633 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3050400&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F150 Conclusions: Besides being a quality-of-care indicator, immediate postoperative patient satisfaction with care may bring a new insight into clinical practice, as a predictor of self-perceived health status after surgery. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3050400 Thu, 03 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3050400 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3050401&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F149 DiscussionThe successful completion of this trial will provide evidence on the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a simple treatment for the management of chronic whiplash.Trial registration: ACTRN12609000825257 (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3050401 Wed, 02 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3050401 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3042224&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F148 Background: MMP-13 and IGFBP-5 are important factors involved in osteoarthritis (OA). We investigated whether two highly predicted microRNAs (miRNAs), miR-140 and miR-27a, regulate these two genes in human OA chondrocytes. Methods: Gene expression was determined by real-time PCR. The effect of each miRNA on IGFBP-5 and MMP-13 expression/production was evaluated by transiently transfecting their precursors (pre-miRNAs) and inhibitors (anti-miRNAs) into human OA chondrocytes. Modulation of IGFBP-5, miR-140 and miR-27a expression was determined upon treatment of OA chondrocytes with cytokines and growth factors. Results: IGFBP-5 was expressed in human chondrocytes with its level significantly lower (p (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3042224 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3042224 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3037939&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F147 Conclusions: The implementation of this program will not be influenced by any flaws in its application that are related to the program itself, or to the adherence of patients with chronic LBP and their health care professionals.This program is promising in terms of feasibility, satisfaction and compliance of the patients, their supervisors and the health care professionals. Before implementation on a wider scale, the communication and the information technology of the program should be improved.[ISRCTN28478651] (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3037939 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3037939 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3028378&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F146 This study aimed to determine whether the effect of laterally wedged insoles on the adduction moment in knee osteoarthritis (OA) declined after one month of wear, and whether higher reported use of insoles was associated with a reduced effect on the adduction moment at one month.Methods Twenty people with medial compartment OA underwent gait analysis in their own shoes wearing i) no insoles and; ii) insoles wedged laterally 5 degrees in random order. Testing occurred at baseline and after one month of use of the insoles. Participants recorded daily use of insoles in a log-book. Outcomes were the first and second peak external knee adduction moment and the adduction angular impulse, compared across conditions and time with repeated measures general linear models. Correlations were obtained ... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3028378 Wed, 25 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3028378 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3024906&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F145 Conclusions: The VOAA-DDD is a reliable and valid instrument to assess spontaneous use of the affected arm and hand in order to determine developmental disregard in children with spastic unilateral CP. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3024906 Wed, 25 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3024906 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3014202&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F143 The objective of this study was to assess the impact of MSD on the quality of life and mental health of patients and to discuss issues concerning care seeking patterns in rural Greece. Methods: Patients registered at one rural Primary Care Centre (PCC) in Crete were invited to complete the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) for the analysis of musculoskeletal symptoms, together with validated instruments for measuring health related quality of life (SF-36) and mental distress (GHQ-28). Results: The prevalence rate of MSD was found to be 71.2%, with low back and knee pain being the most common symptoms. Most conditions significantly impaired the quality of life, especially physical dimensions of SF-36. Depression was strongly correlated to most MSD (p (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Di... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3014202 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3014202 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3010672&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F142 Conclusions: Our findings suggest that HoxD13 directly interacts with the promoter of Gli3. The increase of Gli3 expression in ICTEV model animal might result from the low expression of HoxD13. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3010672 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3010672 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2994626&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F140 This article presents the protocol for a multi-centre randomised controlled trial. It gives extensive details of, and the basis for, the chosen methods, and describes the key measures taken to avoid bias and to ensure validity.Trial RegistrationCurrent Controlled Trials ISRCTN50850043 (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2994626 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2994626 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2987154&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F139 Conclusions: It appears that return to work is highly dependant on individual and cognitive factors. Patients not returning to work after the interventions were characterized by negative expectations, perceptions about pain and disability, and previous physiotherapy treatment. This is the first study reporting that previous treatment by physiotherapists is a risk factor for long-term sick leave. This has not been reported before and is an interesting finding that deserves more scrutiny. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2987154 Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2987154 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2983323&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F138 Background: Exercise has been shown to have positive effects on bone density and strength. However, knowledge of the time-course of exercise and bone changes is scarce due to lack of methods to quantify and qualify daily physical activity in long-term. The aim was to evaluate the association between exercise intensity at 3, 6 and 12 month intervals and 12-month changes in upper femur areal bone mineral density (aBMD) and mid-femur geometry in healthy premenopausal women. Methods: Physical activity was continuously assessed with a waist-worn accelerometer in 35 healthy women (35-40 years) participating in progressive high-impact training. To describe exercise intensity, individual average daily numbers of impacts were calculated at five acceleration levels (range 0.3-9.2g) during time inter... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2983323 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2983323 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2979456&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F137 Background: Many people attending rheumatology clinics use analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories for persistent musculoskeletal pain. Guidelines for pain management recommend regular and pre-emptive use of analgesics to reduce the impact of pain. Clinical experience indicates that analgesics are often not used in this way. Studies exploring use of analgesics in arthritis have historically measured adherence to such medication. Here we examine patterns of analgesic use and their relationships to pain, self-efficacy and demographic factors. Methods: Consecutive patients were approached in a hospital rheumatology out-patient clinic. Pattern of analgesic use was assessed by response to statements such as 'I always take my tablets every day.' Pain and self-efficacy (SE) were measured... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2979456 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2979456 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2957124&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F135 This study aims to (i) investigate the changes and long-term impact of vertebral or hip fracture and between fracture groups on HRQOL in postmenopausal women prospectively between two and seven years after the inclusion fracture, (ii) compare HRQOL results between fracture and reference groups and (iii) study the relationship between HRQOL and physical performance, spinal deformity index and bone mineral density at seven-year follow-up. Methods: Ninety-one women examined two years after a low-energy vertebral or hip fracture were invited to a new examination seven years after the diagnosis. HRQOL was examined using the SF-36 questionnaire and was compared with an age and sex-matched reference group. Physical function was assessed using tests and questionnaires. Bone mineral density was mea... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2957124 Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2957124 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2945747&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F134 Conclusions: The VISA-A questionnaire was successfully cross-cultural adapted and validated for use in German speaking populations. The psychometric properties of the VISA-A-G questionnaire are similar to those of the English version. It therefore can be recommended as a sufficiently robust tool for future measuring clinical severity of Achilles tendinopathy in German speaking patients. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2945747 Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2945747 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2941601&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F132 Conclusion: HWDS compared to PLACEBO induces a significant increase in range of motion in positive management of rotator cuff reconstruction, supporting other previous research on HWDS and improvement in function. Interpretation of this preliminary investigation while suggestive of significant increases in Range of Motion of Post -Operative Rotator Cuff Reconstruction, warrants further confirmation in a larger double-blinded sham controlled randomized study. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2941601 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2941601 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2941600&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F133 Background: In this cross-sectional study, we conducted a comprehensive assessment of all articular elements that could be measured using knee MRI. We assessed the association of pathological change in multiple articular structures involved in the pathoanatomy of osteoarthritis. Methods: Knee MRI scans from patients over 45 years old were assessed using a semi-quantitative knee MRI assessment form. The form included six distinct elements: cartilage, bone marrow lesions, osteophytes, subchondral sclerosis, joint effusion and synovitis. Each type of pathology was graded using an ordinal scale with a value of zero indicating no pathology and higher values indicating increasingly severe levels of pathology. The principal dependent variable for comparison was the mean cartilage disease score (C... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2941600 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2941600 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2910612&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F129 Conclusion: Leather wrist splints were superior to a commercially available fabric splint for the short-term relief of pain and dysfunction.Key words: wrist, splints, ADL, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, occupational therapy (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2910612 Tue, 20 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2910612 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2884959&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F126 Conclusions: Accuracy of VE of passive hip flexion and knee PROMs is high regardless of the examiner's experience. Same accuracy can be found for hip rotations and abduction whenever VE is performed by an experienced examiner. Goniometric evaluation is recommended for passive hip adduction and for ankle PROMs. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2884959 Sun, 11 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2884959 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2914348&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2Fbmcmusculoskeletdisord%2F Conclusions: Differentiation of malignant from benign lesions of musculoskeletal system is best made by a combination of clinical and imaging parameters rather than by any single MR characteristic. When a lesion has a non-specific MR imaging appearance, it is useful to formulate a suitably ordered differential diagnosis based on tumour prevalence, patient age, and anatomic location. A systematic approach markedly improves diagnostic results. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2914348 Wed, 07 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2914348 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2870528&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F125 Conclusions: Differentiation of malignant from benign lesions of musculoskeletal system is best made by a combination of clinical and imaging parameters rather than by any single MR characteristic. When a lesion has a non-specific MR imaging appearance, it is useful to formulate a suitably ordered differential diagnosis based on tumour prevalence, patient age, and anatomic location. A systematic approach markedly improves diagnostic results. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2870528 Wed, 07 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2870528 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2867635&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F124 Conclusion: FMS is a condition that intrudes upon many aspects of patients' lives and is little understood. At the same time, it is a syndrome that evokes uneasiness in health care staff (as current diagnostic criteria are not well supported by objective markers of physiological or biochemical nature, and indeed because of doubt about the existence of the condition) and places great demands on resources in clinical practice. Greater attention needs to be paid to the links between the explanatory models of patients and staff, and most important, to the interrelationship between the complex physical, psychological and social needs of patients with FMS. Taking a less medical but more holistic approach when drawing up new diagnostic criteria for FMS might match better individuals' somatic and ... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2867635 Tue, 06 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2867635 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2860678&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F123 Conclusions: Few of the existing medical terms were understood and accepted by lay participants in the way discussed and expected by health professionals. Misunderstandings, unintended meanings and negative emotional responses to terms were common within the study focus groups. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2860678 Sun, 04 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2860678 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2853888&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F122 Background: While approximately 70% of chronic low back pain (CLBP) sufferers complain of sleep disturbance, current literature is based on self report measures which can be prone to bias and no objective data of sleep quality, based exclusively on CLBP are available. In accordance with the recommendations of The American Sleep Academy, when measuring sleep, both subjective and objective assessments should be considered as the two are only modestly correlated, suggesting that each modality assesses different aspects of an individual's sleep experience. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to expand previous research into sleep disturbance in CLBP by comparing objective and subjective sleep quality in participants with CLBP and healthy age and gender matched controls, to identify correl... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2853888 Thu, 01 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2853888 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2849035&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F120 Conclusion: Inter- and intra-observer agreement of the Mason and Morey classifications showed overall satisfactory reliability when compared to the AO/ASIF system. The Mason classification is the most reliable system. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2849035 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2849035 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2849036&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F119 The objective of this study is to determine whether the patient's perceived outcome and speed of recovery differs between a posterior cruciate retaining total knee arthroplasty and a posterior stabilized total knee arthroplasty. Methods: A randomized controlled trial will be conducted. Patients who are admitted for primary unilateral TKA due to primary osteoarthrosis are included when the following inclusion criteria are met: non-fixed fixed varus or valgus deformity less than 10 degrees, age between 55 and 85 years, body mass index less than 35 kg/m2 and ASA score (American Society of Anaesthesiologists) I or II. Patients are randomized in 2 groups. Patients in the posterior cruciate retaining group will receive a prosthesis with a posterior cut-out for the posterior cruciate ligament and... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2849036 Tue, 29 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2849036 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2830555&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F118 Conclusions The results of this study suggest that when adjusting for interaction between age-group and treatment effect the training model employed in this study was superior to usual care in patients under the age of 40. However, as only three out of nine outcome measures showed a difference, the beneficial effect from an additional standardised individually suited training program can be expected to be limited. There is need for further studies to elucidate how a training program should be designed to increase and optimise function in patients middle-aged or older.Trial Registration: Current Controlled Trials ACTRN12609000327280 (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2830555 Thu, 24 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2830555 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2826666&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F117 Conclusion: Both physical work load and fear-avoidance beliefs matters in those with previous LBP. Only fear-avoidance beliefs matters in those without previous LBP. The study did not find a moderating effect of fear-avoidance beliefs on the association between physical work load and LBP. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2826666 Wed, 23 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2826666 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2826667&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F116 DiscussionThe diminished blood flow may be caused by either sympathetic dysfunction, hypersensitivity to circulating catecholamines, or endothelial dysfunction. The pain may be of neuropathic, inflammatory, nociceptive, or functional nature, or of mixed origin.SummaryThe origin of the pain should be the basis of the symptomatic therapy. Since the difference in temperature between both hands fluctuates over time in cold CRPS, when in doubt, the clinician should prioritize the patient's report of a persistent cold extremity over clinical tests that show no difference. Future research should focus on developing easily applied methods for clinical use to differentiate between central and peripheral blood flow regulation disorders in individual patients. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2826667 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2826667 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2822492&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F115 Conclusion: It appears that both treatment strategies can have equivalent positive influences on headache complaints. Additional studies with larger study populations are needed to draw firm conclusions. Recommendations to increase patient inflow in primary care trials, such as the use of an extended network of participating physicians and of clinical alert software applications, are discussed.Trial registration numberNCT00298142 (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2822492 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2822492 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2813629&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F114 Conclusion: This secondary analysis found little evidence for the existence of subgroups of patients with chronic back pain that would be especially likely to benefit from acupuncture. However, persons with chronic low back pain who had more severe baseline dysfunction had the most short-term benefit from acupuncture. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2813629 Sun, 20 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2813629 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2784303&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F112 Conclusions: Additional screw placement on the proximal segment improves stability in the postoperative femur. The cobra-type plate with additional screw holes in the proximal area might improve the effectiveness of L-osteotomies. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2784303 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2784303 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2767663&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F110 We present the rationale, design, and methodology of a placebo-controlled randomized trial to investigate a new complementary and alternative medicine strategy featuring a dietary supplement and a mind-body exercise for alleviating bone loss in osteopenic postmenopausal women. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2767663 Thu, 03 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2767663 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2764498&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F108 Conclusions: Our findings indicate that when measured over one year, spasticity is marginally related to gross motor function development in infants with CP. The initial level of spasticity is only one of the many child, environmental and family factors that determines gross motor development of a young child with CP. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2764498 Thu, 03 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2764498 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2764497&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F109 Conclusion: Although high frequency OFF does not appear to further enhance the decrease in the RANKL/OPG ratio, these results suggest a potential to differentially control the change in either RANKL or OPG mRNA expression by applying different loading frequencies. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2764497 Thu, 03 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2764497 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2760334&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F107 Conclusion: The EAC is an acceptable and valid instrument for measuring emotional processing and expression in patients with rheumatic diseases. The EAC scales were responsive to change in an intervention designed to promote emotion regulation. The instrument has not yet been tested for test-retest reliability, which is recommended in future studies. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2760334 Wed, 02 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2760334 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2732491&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F106 We examined 160 patients and 169 age- and sex matched controls, respectively (mean (SD)) 67 (9) and 66 (9) years of age. HRQOL was assessed by the Modified Health Assessment Questionnaire (MHAQ) and the Short -Form 36 (SF-36). The Quality of Life Scale (QOLS) assessed GQOL. Paired sample t-tests and multiple linear regression analyses were applied. Results: After one year no differences were found in HRQOL (assessed as arm functions, physical health and mental health) compared to pre-fracture level in the patient group. Both patients with distal radius fracture and controls reported a reduced GQOL after one year (p (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2732491 Mon, 24 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2732491 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2707121&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F103 Conclusion: No matter what the expressions of responsibility for musculoskeletal disorders are, own responsibility needs to be met by society, health care, employers and family in an appropriate way, with as much or as little of the "right type" of support needed, based on the individual's expectations. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2707121 Sun, 16 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2707121 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2690181&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F102 Conclusions: The translated Dutch version of the VISA-P questionnaire is equivalent to its original version, has satisfactory test-retest reliability and is a valid score to evaluate symptoms, knee function and ability to play sports of Dutch athletes with patellar tendinopathy. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2690181 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2690181 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2686685&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F100 Conclusions: Participants in a trial of treatments for acute ACL injury express a variety of views and beliefs about those treatments, and trial participation happens in the absence of equipoise. Furthermore, opting for surgical reconstruction does not necessarily provide patients with satisfactory outcomes. Definition of successful outcome may require an individualised approach, incorporating patients' as well as surgeons' views before treatment decisions are made. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2686685 Sun, 09 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2686685 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2686684&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F101 Background, work-site strength training sessions are shown effective to prevent and reduce neck-shoulder pain in computer workers, but difficult to integrate in normal working routines. A solution for avoiding neck-shoulder pain during computer work may be to implement high intensity voluntary contractions during the computer work. However, it is unknown how this may influence productivity, rate of perceived exertion (RPE) as well as activity and rest of neck-shoulder muscles during computer work. The aim of this study was to investigate short-term effects of a high intensity contraction on productivity, RPE and upper trapezius activity and rest during computer work and a subsequent pause from computer work. Methods, 18 female computer workers performed 2 sessions of 15 min standardized co... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2686684 Sun, 09 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2686684 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2655702&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F94 Conclusion: The electric toothbrush stimulus had excellent test-retest reliability. Validity of the scores was demonstrated with modest sensitivity and good specificity for differentiating TMD pain patients from controls, which are acceptable properties for a screening test.Key words: sensory threshold; temporomandibular disorder; pain; reliability; sensitivity and specificity (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2655702 Wed, 29 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2655702 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2647498&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F93 This article describes the intervention, the empirical evidence to support it, and test-retest reliability data. Methods: This is a prospective, single-blind, randomized controlled trial. The study population consists of 450 overweight and obese (BMI = 27-40 kg/m2) older (age [greater than or equal to] 55 yrs) adults with tibiofemoral osteoarthritis. Participants are randomized to one of three 18-month interventions: intensive dietary restriction-plus-exercise; exercise-only; or intensive dietary restriction-only. The primary aims are to compare the effects of these interventions on inflammatory biomarkers and knee joint loads. Secondary aims will examine the effects of these interventions on function, pain, and mobility; the dose response to weight loss on disease progression; if inflamma... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2647498 Mon, 27 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2647498 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2636329&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F92 This study aims to provide a new vision of shoulder pain, from the perspective of MPS. This syndrome can, by itself, account for shoulder pain and dysfunction, although it can coexist with real conditions involving the tendons.ISRCTN Number: 30907460 (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2636329 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2636329 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2632616&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F91 IntroductionNo definitive data are available regarding the value of switching to an alternative TNF antagonist in rheumatoid arthritis patients who fail to respond to the first one. The aim of this study was to evaluate treatment response in a clinical setting based on HAQ improvement and EULAR response criteria in RA patients who were switched to a second or a third TNF antagonist due to failure with the first one. Methods: This was an observational, prospective study of a cohort of 417 RA patients treated with TNF antagonists in three university hospitals in Spain between January 1999 and December 2005. A database was created at the participating centres, with well-defined operational instructions. The main outcome variables were analyzed using parametric or non-parametric tests dependin... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2632616 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2632616 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2628522&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F89 Conclusions: Preventive measures during military service should be targeted at decreasing low back pain and lower limb overuse injuries, because these inflict the largest burden of MSDs and tend to have a chronic nature. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2628522 Tue, 21 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2628522 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2628521&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F90 In this study we are controlling for two factors. First, the effect of behavioural medicine approach is compared with standard care. Second, the manner in which the behavioural medicine treatment is administered, Internet or face-to-face, is evaluated in it's effectiveness and cost-effectiveness.Methods / Design: The study is a randomized, prospective, experimental three-group study with analyzes of cost-effectiveness up to two-years follow-up. Internet - based program and face-to-face group treatment program are compared to standard-treatment only. Patient follow-ups take place three, six, twelve and 24 months, that is, short-term as well as long-term effects are evaluated. Patients will be enrolled via the emergency ward during the first week after the accident.DiscussionThis new self-he... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2628521 Tue, 21 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2628521 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2616256&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F87 Conclusions: Self-reported one month and lifetime NSP prevalence in adolescents is not related to the level or intensity of physical activity or the type of sedentary activity over a one week period. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2616256 Sun, 19 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2616256 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2604358&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F86 In this study we compared the effect on change in bone mineral density (BMD) of the spine and hip during long term treatment with pamidronate iv in comparison to OB. Methods: We studied 61 patients receiving treatment for at least two years. In case of contraindications or intolerance (within 3 months) of an OB, pamidronate iv was started. BMD was measured on a Hologic 4500 and a Lunar DPX-IQ at the spine (L1-L4) and total hip. Results: Thirty-one patients were enrolled in the OB group and 30 in the intravenous pamidronate group. Mean follow-up duration (SD) was 4.3 (1.3) years. We observed a significant increase (p (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2604358 Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2604358 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2596594&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F84 Conclusions: Although the young adults initially were sick listed with back disorders, they were sickness absent due to a wide variety of other medical diagnoses during the follow up. It might be that the ill-health content of sickness absence due to back pain is greater than usually assumed. More research on prognoses associated with diagnoses for sickness absence is warranted. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2596594 Mon, 13 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2596594 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2590166&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F83 DiscussionThis trial will provide level-1 evidence on the effectiveness of PEMFs in the management of osteochondral ankle lesions after arthroscopy.Trial registrationNetherlands Trial Register (NTR1636) (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2590166 Thu, 09 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2590166 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2578749&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F82 Background: Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) is a lower abdominal pain lasting at least 6 months, occurring continuously or intermittently and not associated exclusively with menstruation or intercourse. Although the musculoskeletal system has been found to be involved in CPP, few studies have assessed the contribution of posture in women with CPP. We therefore determined the frequency of postural changes in women with CPP. Methods: A case-control study included 108 women with CPP of more than 6 months' duration (CPP group) who consecutively attended at the Hospital of the University of Sao Paulo and 48 healthy female volunteers (control group). Postural assessment was noninvasive and performed in the standing position, with the reference points of Kendall used as normal parameters. Factors assoc... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2578749 Mon, 06 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2578749 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2566084&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F80 Conclusion: Wrist fracture patients perceive themselves to be as healthy as the controls before fracture. Our data indicate that patients with favourable and unfavourable HRQOL measures may be at increased risk of wrist fracture. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2566084 Thu, 02 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2566084 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2566083&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F81 Conclusions: The prevalence of VESC increased significantly over the four-year period. Furthermore, the results from this study indicate that the distribution of VESC, its association with disc degeneration and its natural course, is dependent on the size of the signal changes. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2566083 Thu, 02 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2566083 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2566085&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F79 This study will be an assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial that will investigate the difference in clinical effectiveness and costs of an individualized walking programme and a supervised general exercise programme compared to usual physiotherapy, which will act as the control group, in people with chronic low back pain. A sample of 246 patients will be recruited in Dublin, Ireland through acute general hospital outpatient physiotherapy departments that provide treatment for people with CLBP. Patients will be randomly allocated to one of the three groups in a concealed manner. The main outcomes will be functional disability, pain, quality of life, fear avoidance, back beliefs, physical activity, satisfaction and costs, which will be evaluated at baseline, and 3, 6 and 12 months [fo... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2566085 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2566085 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2554689&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F77 Conclusions: TSP is a common condition in the general population. While there is some evidence for biopsychosocial associations it is limited and further prospectively designed research is required to inform prevention and management strategies. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2554689 Sun, 28 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2554689 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2493732&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F76 Conclusion: This trial will utilise high quality trial methodologies in accordance with CONSORT guidelines. Findings from this study will assist in the development of evidence based practice recommendations and potentially the optimisation of resource allocation for rehabilitating lateral epicondylalgia.Trial registration: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Register ACTRN12609000051246 (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2493732 Tue, 23 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2493732 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2493733&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F75 DiscussionPrevention of knee injury is beneficial for players, clubs, insurance companies, and society. If the warm-up program is proven to be effective in reducing the incidence of knee injury, it can have a major impact by reducing the future knee injury burden in female football as well as the negative long-term disabilities associated with knee injury.Trial registration: NCT00894595 (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2493733 Mon, 22 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2493733 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2493734&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F74 Conclusions: Participation in official duties and training is high in elite Gaelic games referees, despite the amateur status of the sports. Gaelic games injury is common in the referee cohort, with lower limb injury predominating. These injuries have implications for both the referee and for organisation of the games. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2493734 Sun, 21 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2493734 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2493736&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F72 Conclusions: Our findings implicate type-1 collagen as a previously unrecognized regulator of beta-catenin accumulation and a modifier of TGF-beta1 signaling specifically in primary DD cells. These data have implications for current treatment modalities as well as the design of in vitro models for research into the molecular mechanisms of DD. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2493736 Thu, 18 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2493736 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2493735&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F73 Conclusions: By the use of different regression models the different aspects of the neck pain pattern could be addressed and the risk factors impact on the pain pattern was identified. Short-term risk factors were perceived stress, high work/study demands and computer use pattern (break pattern). Those were also long-term risk factors. For developing pain perceived stress and computer use pattern were risk factors. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2493735 Thu, 18 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2493735 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2493737&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F71 DiscussionThis is the first rheumatological study to base treatment in early arthritis on a prediction rule. Treatment will be stratified according to the probability of persistent arthritis, and different combinations of treatment per stratum will be evaluated. Treatment will be started early, and patients will not need to meet the ACR-criteria for rheumatoid arthritis.Trial registrationThis trial has been registered in Current Controlled Trials with the ISRCTN26791028. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2493737 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2493737 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2493739&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F69 DiscussionThe results of this pragmatic clinical trial can be directly implemented into clinical practice. If beneficial, the novel rehabilitation strategy of utilising outpatient exercise classes during a later rehabilitation phase would provide a feasible and potentially cost-effective intervention to optimise the physical well-being of the large number of people undergoing TKR.Trial Registration: ACTRN12609000054213 (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2493739 Tue, 16 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2493739 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2493738&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F70 Conclusions: The arthroscopic findings confirmed that the incidence ratio of adhesion was high and occurred predominantly with older patients with longer locking duration and less interincisal opening. As the stage of ID increased, the adhesion grade rose. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2493738 Tue, 16 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2493738 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2481587&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F68 Conclusions: The AS-WIS is a self-administered scale which meets the stringent requirements of modern measurement. Used as a screening tool it can identify those experiencing a mismatch at work who are at risk of job retention problems and work disability. Work instability is emerging as an important indication for the use of biologics, thus the AS-WIS has the potential to become an important outcome measure. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2481587 Tue, 16 Jun 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2481587 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2481589&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F66 Conclusions: These results demonstrate that the combination treatment of ALF and RIS at their sub-therapeutic doses can improve the mechanical properties of the spine as well as the femur and ameliorate changes in Ca metabolism in an animal model of osteoporosis, suggesting that the combination treatment of ALF and RIS has a therapeutic advantage over each monotherapy for the treatment of osteoporosis. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2481589 Mon, 15 Jun 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2481589 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2481588&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F67 Conclusions: Foot abnormalities are associated with active joint disease and disability in RA. Foot examinations provide complementary information related to the disability as an indirect measurement of quality of life and activity of disease in daily practice. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2481588 Mon, 15 Jun 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2481588 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2466333&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F64 Conclusion: Fibromyalgia is prevalent in the low socioeconomic status population assisted by the public primary health care system. Prevalence was similar to other studies (4.4%) in a more diverse socioeconomic population. Individuals with FM and WP have significant impact in their well being. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2466333 Mon, 08 Jun 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2466333 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2461293&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F62 Conclusions: The self-reported musculoskeletal functional limitations index appears to be a valid measure of musculoskeletal functional limitations, in the aspects of validity assessed in this study. It is useful for outcome studies following TKR and shows promise as a covariate in studies of chronic disease outcomes. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2461293 Sat, 06 Jun 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2461293 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2461295&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F60 Conclusions: This study showed that advanced age, low BW, low serum albumin level, and high ALP and iPTH levels were associated with a low bone mass in the hemodialysis patients. We suggest that regular monitoring of the femoral neck BMD, maintaining an adequate serum albumin level and BW, and undertaking an exercise program are important to improve bone health in the patients undergoing hemodialysis. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2461295 Thu, 04 Jun 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2461295 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2461294&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F61 Conclusions: Articular cartilage is viscoelastic throughout the full range of frequencies investigated. The behaviour has implications for mechanical damage to articular cartilage and the onset of osteoarthritis. Storage modulus increases with frequency, until the plateau region is reached, and has a higher value than loss modulus. Furthermore, loss modulus does not increase with loading frequency. This means that more energy is stored by the tissue than is dissipated and that this effect is greater at higher frequencies. The main mechanism for this excess energy to be dissipated is by the formation of cracks. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2461294 Thu, 04 Jun 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2461294 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2461296&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F59 Conclusion: The present data demonstrate that registration of locomotion followed by a computerized evaluation of the movements is a simple non invasive quantitative method to define disease severity and evaluate effectiveness of therapeutic agents in the CIA model. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2461296 Wed, 03 Jun 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2461296 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2450777&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F57 Conclusion: In the present study, we demonstrated that LXA4 had a favorable inhibitory effect on PMMA-induced inflammation in a macrophage and OB co-culture system. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2450777 Tue, 02 Jun 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2450777 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2444650&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F56 Conclusions: A recent Cochrane analysis did not find arguments in favour of either non-cemented or cemented hemiarthroplasty. The forthcoming trial will compare treatment for a displaced femoral neck fracture by cemented versus non-cemented hemiarthroplasty. Our results will be published as soon as they become available.Trial Registration Number: NTR1508. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2444650 Thu, 28 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2444650 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2438183&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F54 Background: Diabetes is becoming one of the most common chronic diseases, and ulcers are its most serious complication. Beginning with neuropathy, the subsequent foot wounds frequently lead to lower extremity amputation, even in the absence of critical limb ischemia. In recent years, some researchers have studied external shock wave therapy (ESWT) as a new approach to soft tissue wound healing. The rationale of this study was to evaluate if ESWT is effective in the management of neuropathic diabetic foot ulcers. Methods: We designed a randomized, prospective, controlled study in which we recruited 30 patients affected by neuropathic diabetic foot ulcers and then divided them into two groups based on different management strategies. One group was treated with standard care and shock wave th... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2438183 Wed, 27 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2438183 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2409581&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F50 Conclusions: We suggest a core set of instruments measuring pain, grip strength, grip ability, perceived symptoms and self-defined daily activities. This study has shown that VAS pain, the Grippit instrument, GAT, DASH symptom scale and COPM are suitable outcome instruments for hand surgery, while SOFI may be a more insensitive test. However, the feasibility of this protocol in clinical practice awaits prospective studies. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2409581 Thu, 14 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2409581 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2409582&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F49 We present the design of a randomized controlled trial, studying the cost-effectiveness of PLDD versus conventional open discectomy in patients with sciatica from lumbar disc herniation. Methods/design: The study is a randomized prospective multi-center trial, in which two treatment strategies are compared in a parallel group design. Patients (age 18-70 years) visiting the neurosurgery department of the participating hospitals, are considered for inclusion in the trial when sciatica due to lumbar disc herniation has lasted more than 8 weeks. Patients with disc herniation smaller than 1/3 of the spinal canal diameter, without concomitant lateral recess stenosis or sequestration, are eligible for participation, and are randomized into one of two treatment arms; either Percutaneous Laser Di... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2409582 Wed, 13 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2409582 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2401142&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F48 Conclusions: According to our study, cumulative physical workload is related to lumbar disc diseases among men and women. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2401142 Thu, 07 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2401142 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2394229&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F47 Conclusion: the novel aspect of our study is the determination of objective measures of muscle strength in PWS and the comparison with O and H patients. The objective characterization of muscle function performed in this study provides baseline and outcome measures that may quantify specific strength deficits amendable with tailored rehabilitation programs and monitor effectiveness of treatments. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2394229 Wed, 06 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2394229 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2378685&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F43 Background: The present study aims to determine the time spent in different static trunk postures during a typical working day of workers in a special school for the severe handicaps. Methods: Eighteen workers with low back pain (LBP) and fifteen asymptomatic workers were recruited. A cross-sectional design was employed to study the time spent in different static trunk postures which was recorded by a biaxial accelerometer attached to the T12 level of the back of the subjects. Results: The results of ANCOVA revealed that subjects with LBP spent significantly longer percentage of time in static trunk posture when compared to normal (p (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2378685 Wed, 29 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2378685 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2361642&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F41 Conclusion: Disease activity states according to the various indices perform similarly and show substantial agreement at all levels except remission. Agreement between SDAI and CDAI states is excellent. Response criteria, applied at the individual patient level, are hard to interpret and show poor agreement, except at the lowest level of response. Thus, they should not be applied uncritically in clinical practice. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2361642 Thu, 23 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2361642 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2351752&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F40 Conclusions: Low-Dye tape's initial effect of reduced lateral forefoot peak plantar pressure was lost after a 10-minute walk. However, the tape continued to have an effect on the medial forefoot after 20 minutes of exercise. Further studies with larger sample sizes are required to examine the important finding of the anti-pronatory trend present in the midfoot. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2351752 Tue, 21 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2351752 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2335957&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F37 This study examined the short-term effects of warm-up, static stretching and dynamic stretching on hamstring flexibility in individuals with previous hamstring injury and uninjured controls. Methods: A randomised crossover study design, over 2 separate days. Hamstring flexibility was assessed using passive knee extension range of motion (PKE ROM). 18 previously injured individuals and 18 uninjured controls participated. On both days, four measurements of PKE ROM were recorded: (1) at baseline; (2) after warm-up; (3) after stretch (static or dynamic) and (4) after a 15-minute rest. Participants carried out both static and dynamic stretches, but on different days. Data were analysed using Anova. Results: Across both groups, there was a significant main effect for time (p (Source: BMC Muscul... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2335957 Thu, 16 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2335957 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2335958&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F36 Background: Several studies have been carried out in order to investigate surface electromyography (SEMG) response on fibromyalgic (FM) patients. Some studies failed to demonstrate differences between FM patients and healthy individuals while others found differences in SEMG parameters. Different muscular region have been analyzed in FM patients and heterogeneity is also produced because of the different ways in which the SEMG technique is used. The aims of this study were to evaluate muscle modifications by SEMG analysis in FM women with respect to a sample of healthy controls and to investigate the relationships between SEMG parameters and the clinical aspects of the disease. Methods: SEMG was recorded in 100 FM women (48.10+/-11.96 yr) and in 50 healthy women (48.60+/-11.18 yr), from ... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2335958 Wed, 15 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2335958 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2316235&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F35 Conclusions: We found significant differences in the trabecular bone, collagen fibers, lacunae and osteoblasts between postmenopausal women with OP and OA. These findings support the hypothesis that there is an inverse relationship between OP and OA. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2316235 Thu, 09 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2316235 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2316237&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F34 Conclusion: NOM was more effective in level 1 patients than in level 2 and 3 patients. Operative management was effective in patients at all levels, with no statistical differences between levels or types. We recommend NOM as primary treatment for level 1 patients and operative management for level 2 and 3 patients. Either NOM or operative management should be carried out as early as possible. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2316237 Tue, 07 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2316237 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2316239&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F33 Background: Precise indications for computed tomography (CT) in proximal humeral fractures are not established. The purpose of this study was a comparison of conventional radiographic views with different CT reconstructions with 2 D and 3 D imaging to establish indications for additional CT diagnostics depending on the fractured parts. Methods: In a prospective diagnostic study in two level 1 trauma centers, 44 patients with proximal humeral fractures were diagnosed with conventional X-rays (22 AP + axillary views, 22 AP+ scapular Y-views) and CT (multi-planar reconstruction (MPR) and maximum intensity projection (MIP)) with 2 D and 3 D imaging. 3 observers assessed the technical image quality, the assessment of the relevant anatomical structures (2-sample-t-test) and the percentage of the... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2316239 Thu, 02 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2316239 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2316240&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F32 Conclusion: The simultaneous presence of two opposing deformities in the same limb will visually offset each other at the level of the wrist and hand, giving the false impression of neutral positioning of the limb. In reality, the neutral-appearing position of the hand indicates a fixed supination posture of the forearm in the face of a medial rotation contracture of the shoulder. Both of these deformities require surgical attention, and the presence of concurrent MRC and SD should be monitored for in OBPI patients. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2316240 Mon, 16 Mar 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2316240 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2270856&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F32 Background: Patients who have suffered obstetric brachial plexus injury (OBPI) have a high incidence of musculoskeletal complications stemming from the initial nerve injury. The presence of muscle imbalances and contractures leads to typical bony changes affecting the shoulder, including the SHEAR (Scapular Hypoplasia, Elevation and Rotation) deformity. The SHEAR deformity commonly occurs in conjunction with Medial Rotation Contracture (MRC) of the arm. OBPI also causes muscle imbalances at the level of the forearm, that lead to a fixed supination deformity (SD) in a small number of patients. Both MRC and SD will cause severe functional limitations without surgical intervention. Methods: Fourteen OBPI patients were diagnosed with MRC of the shoulder and SD of the forearm along with SHEAR d... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2270856 Mon, 16 Mar 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2270856 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2253475&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F30 Conclusions: Few of the questionnaires had made use of the experiences of affected people in the development. The correspondence between the symptoms expressed by the affected and the content of the questionnaires was low. A variety of symptoms were expressed by the interviewees, and the participants were also able to distinguish nuances and fluctuations of symptoms. The present study points to the importance of other aspects than just pain and physical functioning as clinical trial outcome measures related to neck-shoulder disorders. To develop a condition-specific questionnaire, it is important to decide on the specific symptoms for the condition. Using the experiences of those affected, in combination with relevant research and professional knowledge, can enhance the validity of the que... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2253475 Mon, 09 Mar 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2253475 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2253473&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F31 Conclusion: The results indicate that there is acceptable relative reliability for evaluating knee strength with a HHD, while the measurement error observed was modest. The HHD may be useful in detecting changes in knee extension strength at the individual patient level. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2253473 Mon, 09 Mar 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2253473 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2237260&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F29 Conclusions: In conclusion, cemented knee prostheses, implanted in patients with arthritis do not have significantly different rates of survival or perioperative complications in obese subjects compared with normal weight subjects, at least up to 5 years after surgery. The conclusion also applies to subjects affected by morbid obesity, altough this findings should be regarded with caution due to the small sample examined. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2237260 Thu, 05 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2237260 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2229706&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F28 Conclusions: This study shows a reciprocal dose-response-like relationship between spinal pain and TMD. The results indicate that these two conditions may share common risk factors or that they may influence each other. Studies on the temporal sequence between spinal pain and TMD are warranted. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2229706 Mon, 02 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2229706 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2219973&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F27 Conclusions The findings of this study indicate that high expression of both COL1A2 and scleraxis, and low expression of tenascin-C is representative of a tensional tendon phenotype. The in vitro culture methods used in these experiments however, may not recapitulate the phenotype of normal tensional tendon fibroblasts in tissues as evidenced by gene expression. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2219973 Thu, 26 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2219973 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2214030&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F26 Background: The word "sex" refers to biological differences between men and women. Gender refers to roles, behaviors, activities, and attributes that a given society considers appropriate for men and women. Traditionally, treatment decisions have been based on patient's sex without including the gender. Assessment of disability secondary to musculoskeletal problems would not be complete or accurate unless potentially relevant biological and non-biological aspects of being a man or woman are taken into consideration. The purposes of this study were to: 1) investigate the difference in pre-operative characteristics between men and women who were candidates for rotator cuff surgery; and, 2) assess the relationship between level of disability and factors that represent sex and factors that sig... BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2214030 Tue, 24 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2214030 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2208388&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F24 DiscussionThe results of this study will give a first impression of potential effectiveness of exercise and weight loss as a combination program for patients with OA of the hip. Once this program is proven to be effective it may lead to postponing the moment of total hip replacement. Trial Registration number: NTR1053 (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2208388 Mon, 23 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2208388 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2197698&cid=s_29524_31_f&fid=29524&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2474%2F10%2F23 Conclusions: The Tyr-759 point mutation of the IL-6 family cytokine receptor subunit, gp130, caused autoimmune disease, and this was also influenced by the genetic background. CIA in D/J.gp130F759 is useful for evaluating drugs in a relatively short period because sustained activation of STAT3 may enhance the disease symptoms. (Source: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2197698 Thu, 19 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2197698