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10 pages, 324 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Combined Rehabilitation with Alpha Lipoic Acid, Acetyl-L-Carnitine, Resveratrol, and Cholecalciferolin Discogenic Sciatica in Young People: A Randomized Clinical Trial

by Dalila Scaturro, Fabio Vitagliani, Sofia Tomasello, Cristiano Sconza, Stefano Respizzi and Giulia Letizia Mauro

Medicina 2023, 59(12), 2197; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59122197 - 18 Dec 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3304

Abstract

Background and Objectives: In the Western world, back pain and sciatica are among the main causes of disability and absence from work with significant personal, social, and economic costs. This prospective observational study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a rehabilitation program [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: In the Western world, back pain and sciatica are among the main causes of disability and absence from work with significant personal, social, and economic costs. This prospective observational study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a rehabilitation program combined with the administration of Alpha Lipoic Acid, Acetyl-L-Carnitine, Resveratrol, and Cholecalciferol in the treatment of sciatica due to herniated discs in young patients in terms of pain resolution, postural alterations, taking painkillers, and quality of life. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 128 patients with sciatica. We divided the sample into 3 groups: the Combo group, which received a combination of rehabilitation protocol and daily therapy with 600 mg Alpha Lipoic Acid, 1000 mg Acetyl-L-Carnitine, 50 mg Resveratrol, and 800 UI Cholecalciferol for 30 days; the Reha group, which received only a rehabilitation protocol; and the Supplement group, which received only oral supplementation with 600 mg Alpha Lipoic Acid, 1000 mg Acetyl-L-Carnitine, 50 mg Resveratrol, and 800 UI Cholecalciferol. Clinical assessments were made at the time of recruitment (T0), 30 days after the start of treatment (T1), and 60 days after the end of treatment (T2). The rating scales were as follows: the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS); the Oswestry Disability Questionnaire (ODQ); and the 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). All patients also underwent an instrumental stabilometric evaluation. Results: At T1, the Combo group showed statistically superior results compared to the other groups for pain (p < 0.05), disability (p < 0.05), and quality of life (p < 0.05). At T2, the Combo group showed statistically superior results compared to the other groups only for pain (p < 0.05) and quality of life (p < 0.05). From the analysis of the stabilometric evaluation data, we only observed a statistically significant improvement at T2 in the Combo group for the average X (p < 0.05) compared to the other groups. Conclusions: The combined treatment of rehabilitation and supplements with anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and antioxidant action is effective in the treatment of sciatica and can be useful in improving postural stability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Age-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders)

13 pages, 1755 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characteristics of Age Classification into Five-Year Intervals to Explain Sarcopenia and Immune Cells in Older Adults

by Seung-Jae Heo and Yong-Seok Jee

Medicina 2023, 59(10), 1700; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59101700 - 22 Sep 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1403

Abstract

Background and Objectives: This study focused on investigating sarcopenic factors and immune cells in older adulthood. To achieve this, the variables related to sarcopenia and immune cells in people living in the same community were analyzed. Materials and Methods: A total of [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: This study focused on investigating sarcopenic factors and immune cells in older adulthood. To achieve this, the variables related to sarcopenia and immune cells in people living in the same community were analyzed. Materials and Methods: A total of 433 elderly individuals aged 61 to 85 years were randomly categorized as follows in 5-year intervals: 68 in the youngest-old group (aged 61–65), 168 in the young-old group (aged 66–70), 127 in the middle-old group (aged 71–75), 46 in the old-old group (aged 76–80), and 19 in the oldest-old group (aged 81–85). Results: With the progression of age, calf circumference (−8.4 to −11.05%; p = 0.001) and grip strength (−9.32 to −21.01%; p = 0.001) exhibited a noticeable reduction with each successive 5-year age bracket. Conversely, the capability to complete the five-time chair stand demonstrated a clear incline (32.49 to 56.81%; p = 0.001), starting from the middle-aged group. As for appendicular skeletal muscle mass, there was an evident tendency for it to decrease (−7.08 to −26.62%; p = 0.001) with increasing age. A gradual decline in natural killer cells became apparent within the old-old and oldest-old groups (−9.28 to −26.27%; p = 0.001). The results of the post hoc test revealed that CD3 T cells showcased their peak levels in both the youngest-old and young-old groups. This was followed by the middle-old and old-old groups, with slightly lower levels. This pattern was similarly observed in CD4 T cells, CD8 T cells, and CD19 B cells. Conclusions: This study reaffirmed that sarcopenia and immune cell function decline with each successive 5-year increase in age. Considering these findings, the importance of implementing programs aimed at ensuring a high-quality extension of life for the elderly is strongly underscored. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Age-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders)

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15 pages, 660 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Delayed Surgical Treatment in Patients with Chronic Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Is Still Effective in the Improvement of Hand Function

by Marta Twardowska, Piotr Czarnecki, Marta Jokiel, Ewa Bręborowicz, Juliusz Huber and Leszek Romanowski

Medicina 2023, 59(8), 1404; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59081404 - 31 Jul 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1792

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Severe carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common compression neuropathy in the upper extremities treated conservatively; later, when advanced, CTS is treated mostly surgically. The most prevalent symptoms comprise numbness, as well as sensation loss in the thumb, [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Severe carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common compression neuropathy in the upper extremities treated conservatively; later, when advanced, CTS is treated mostly surgically. The most prevalent symptoms comprise numbness, as well as sensation loss in the thumb, index, and middle finger, and thenar muscle strength loss, resulting in impaired daily functioning for patients. Data on the results of CTS treatment in patients with delayed surgical intervention are scarce. The aim of this study was to determine the postoperative results of chronic carpal tunnel syndrome treatment in patients with symptoms lasting for at least 5 years. Materials and Methods: A total of 86 patients (69 females, 17 males) with a mean age of 58 years reporting symptoms of CTS for at least 5 years (mean: 8.5 years) were prospectively studied. The average follow-up time was 33 months. All patients underwent the surgical open decompression of the median nerve at the wrist. A preoperative observation was composed of an interview and a clinical examination. The subjects completed the DASH (the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand), PRWE (Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation), and self-report questionnaires. Global grip strength, sensory discrimination, characteristic symptoms of CTS, and thenar muscle atrophy were examined. Postoperatively, clinical and functional examinations were repeated, and patients expressed their opinions by completing a BCTQ (Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire). Results: We found improvements in daily activities and hand function postoperatively. Overall, 88% of patients were satisfied with the outcome of surgery. DASH scores decreased after surgery from 44.82 to 14.12 at p < 0.001. PRWE questionnaire scores decreased from 53.34 to 15.19 at p < 0.001. The mean score of the BCTQ on the scale regarding the severity of symptoms was 1.48 and 1.62 on the scale regarding function after surgery. No significant differences were found in the scores between the male and female groups or between age groups (p > 0.05). A significant increase in global grip strength from 16.61 kg to 21.91 kg was observed postoperatively at p < 0.001. No significant difference was detected in the measurement of sensory discrimination (6.02 vs. 5.44). In most of the examined patients, night numbness and wrist pain subsided after surgery at p < 0.001. Thenar muscle atrophy diminished after surgery at p < 0.001. Conclusions: Most patients were satisfied with the results of CTS surgery regarding the open decompression of the median nerve even after 5 years of ineffective conservative treatment. Significant improvement of the hand function was confirmed in the functional studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Age-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders)

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10 pages, 546 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Risk Factors on the Well-Being of Elderly Women with Knee Osteoarthritis

by Ivana Minaković, Jelena Zvekić Svorcan, Tanja Janković, Hajdana Glomazić, Mirjana Smuđa, Dejan Živanović, Jovan Javorac and Bela Kolarš

Medicina 2023, 59(8), 1396; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59081396 - 29 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1476

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a widespread chronic joint disease characterized by functional limitations and pain. Functioning restrictions exert a detrimental impact on societal integration, relationships, and psychological well-being, resulting in significant emotional distress in KOA patients. The objective of this [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a widespread chronic joint disease characterized by functional limitations and pain. Functioning restrictions exert a detrimental impact on societal integration, relationships, and psychological well-being, resulting in significant emotional distress in KOA patients. The objective of this study is to examine how various risk factors impact the emotional well-being of individuals with KOA. Materials and Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study involved 154 postmenopausal women treated at the Special Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases in Novi Sad, Serbia. The experimental group comprised 97 individuals with chronic knee pain and structural knee damage (Kellgren–Lawrence (KL) scale II-IV), while the control group had 53 individuals with chronic knee pain but no structural knee damage (KL scale 0-I). The collected data consisted of sociodemographic factors, general characteristics, associated diseases, and laboratory results. Adequate anthropometric measurements were conducted, and all subjects were required to complete the SF-36 RAND questionnaire. Results: The analysis identified several variables that independently influenced emotional well-being. These included pain intensity (beta (β) 0.21; 95% CI: 0.03–0.20; p < 0.01), social functioning (beta (β) 0.47; 95% CI: 0.23–0.43; p < 0.001), physical functioning (beta (β) 0.23; 95% CI: 0.04–0.21; p < 0.01), and education level (8–12 years: beta (β) 0.25; 95% CI: 1.47–9.41; p < 0.01; >12 years: beta (β) 0.27; 95% CI: 2.51–12.67; p < 0.01). However, the multivariate model revealed that only social functioning (beta (β) 0.57; 95% CI: 0.27–0.53; p < 0.001) and education level (8–12 years: beta (β) 0.21; 95% CI: 1.10–8.260; p < 0.05; >12 years: beta (β) 0.21; 95% CI: 1.18–10.30; p < 0.05) were significantly associated with emotional well-being in KOA patients. Conclusions: The findings of this study indicate that a reduced social functioning and a lower educational attainment are linked to a poorer emotional well-being among patients with KOA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Age-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders)

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9 pages, 542 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Immersion Ultrasound Therapy in Combination with Manual Therapy in the Treatment of Ischemic Digital Ulcers in Systemic Sclerosis

by Dalila Scaturro, Antimo Moretti, Fabio Vitagliani, Giuliana Guggino, Sofia Tomasello, Davide Lo Nardo, Lorenza Lauricella, Giovanni Iolascon and Giulia Letizia Mauro

Medicina 2023, 59(7), 1335; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59071335 - 20 Jul 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1937

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Digital ulcers (DUs) are the most common complication in patients with Systemic Sclerosis (SSc). They cause pain with hand dysfunction and negatively impact activities of daily and working life. Our study aims to evaluate the efficacy of a combined [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Digital ulcers (DUs) are the most common complication in patients with Systemic Sclerosis (SSc). They cause pain with hand dysfunction and negatively impact activities of daily and working life. Our study aims to evaluate the efficacy of a combined treatment of manual therapy and ultrasound therapy in SSc patients with ischemic DU (IDU) compared to manual therapy alone. Materials and Methods: We conducted a before-and-after study (non-randomized study). We enrolled a consecutive series of IDU patients undergoing rehabilitation treatment and divided them into two groups: a treatment group consisting of patients undergoing a combination of manual therapy and US water immersion and a standard care group consisting of patients subjected to manual therapy alone. At the time of the first visit (T0) and at the end of the 4-week rehabilitation period (T1), we evaluated functional capacity, pain intensity, ulcer evolution, and quality of life. Results: In the treatment group, we observed a statistically significant improvement in the functional capacity of the hand (DHI: 28.15 ± 11.0 vs. 19.05 ± 8.83; p < 0.05), pain (NRS: 5.55 ± 1.2 vs. 2.9 ± 1.09; p < 0.05), and PSST score (24.4 ± 4.0 vs. 16.2 ± 2.36; p < 0.05). In the standard care group, we observed a statistically significant improvement only for the functional capacity of the hand (DHI: 28.85 ± 9.72 vs. 22.7 ± 7.68; p < 0.05). Finally, from the comparison between the treatment group and the standard care group, we observed statistically significant improvements in pain (2.9 ± 1.09 vs. 4.5 ± 1.07; p < 0.05) and in the PSST scale (16.2 ± 2.36 vs. 20.4 ± 4.02; p < 0.05). Furthermore, at the end of treatment in the treatment group, 15 ulcers (62.5%) were completely healed, while in the standard care group, only 3 ulcers were completely healed (14.3%). Conclusions: Combined treatment with manual therapy and ultrasound therapy appears to be useful in the management of IDU in patients with scleroderma. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Age-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders)

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19 pages, 4639 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Complex Rehabilitation Treatment on Sarcopenia—Pathology with an Endocrine Morphological Substrate and Musculoskeletal Implications

by Liliana-Elena Stanciu, Mădălina-Gabriela Iliescu, Carmen Oprea, Elena-Valentina Ionescu, Adina Petcu, Viorela Mihaela Ciortea, Lucian Cristian Petcu, Sterian Apostol, Andreea-Dalila Nedelcu, Irina Motoașcă and Laszlo Irsay

Medicina 2023, 59(7), 1238; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59071238 - 2 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1543

Abstract

The pathogenesis of sarcopenia is multifactorial, including changes in the endocrine system. Easy-to-perform screening tests can guide the diagnosis of sarcopenia and the rehabilitation therapeutic conduct, which can act on many physiopathological links. This study was conducted over a period of 5 months, [...] Read more.

The pathogenesis of sarcopenia is multifactorial, including changes in the endocrine system. Easy-to-perform screening tests can guide the diagnosis of sarcopenia and the rehabilitation therapeutic conduct, which can act on many physiopathological links. This study was conducted over a period of 5 months, from April to August 2022, and included 84 patients hospitalized for a period of 10 days in the Balneal and Rehabilitation Sanatorium Techirghiol for complex physiotherapy, which included balneotherapy. In dynamics, both at admission and discharge, specific screening tests for sarcopenia (SARC-F questionnaire, grip strength, testing muscle strength at the level of the quadriceps, sit-to-stand tests (the time required for five consecutive rises and the number of rises performed in 30 s)) and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain were performed. The study was conducted according to the norms of deontology and medical ethics. Results: A significant proportion of patients had a positive result in at least one of the tests for the screening of sarcopenia syndrome. The most eloquent results were obtained from the statistical analysis of the following parameters evaluated at admission: the SARC-F questionnaire and the sit-to-stand test—the number of rises in 30 s. In terms of dynamics, after performing the complex rehabilitation treatment, the patients recorded improvements in the established screening tests and improvements in pain symptoms evaluated with the help of the VAS. Conclusions: Sarcopenia, a pathology developed with aging, is frequently encountered among adults. In the future, it is important to perform screening for sarcopenia in both endocrinology and medical rehabilitation clinics. Good management of sarcopenia can influence therapeutic conduct and can prevent complications, improving the functional capacity and the quality of life of the patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Age-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders)

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12 pages, 1268 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Presence of Differences in the Radiofrequency Parameters Applied to Complex Pressure Ulcers: A Secondary Analysis

by Miguel Ángel Barbas-Monjo, Eleuterio A. Sánchez-Romero, Jorge Hugo Villafañe, Lidia Martínez-Rolando, Jara Velasco García Cuevas and Juan Nicolás Cuenca-Zaldivar

Medicina 2023, 59(3), 516; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59030516 - 7 Mar 2023

Viewed by 1823

Abstract

Background: Pressure ulcers are a public health problem given the impact that they have on morbidity, mortality and the quality of life and participation of patients who suffer from them. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to evaluate the presence [...] Read more.

Background: Pressure ulcers are a public health problem given the impact that they have on morbidity, mortality and the quality of life and participation of patients who suffer from them. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to evaluate the presence of differences in the radiofrequency parameters applied to complex pressure ulcers throughout the sessions and between the right and left leg. As a secondary objective, the subjective perceptions of the effects of the treatment by both the patients and the practitioner were analyzed. Methods: We performed a secondary analysis of data from a prospective study involving 36 patients from the Hospital de Guadarrama in Madrid, Spain, who presented ulcers in the lower limbs. Ten treatment sessions of radiofrequency were administered with a frequency of one session/week, collecting the data referring to the variables in each of the sessions. The main outcome variables were the radiofrequency parameters automatically adjusted in each session and that referred to the frequency (Hz), maximum and average power (W), absorbed energy by the ulcer (J/cm2) and temperature (°C) reached by the tissues. On the other hand, the subjective perception of the results was evaluated using the Global Response Assessment (GRA), a Likert-type scale that scores the treatment results from 1 (significantly worse) to 5 (significantly better). Likewise, the satisfaction of both the patients and the professional were evaluated using a 10-point numerical scale. Results: The ANOVA test showed significant differences (p < 0.05) throughout the sessions except in patient satisfaction. The ANOVA test showed significant differences (p < 0.05) between both legs and over time in all parameters except for frequency. The presence of significant differences (p < 0.05) was observed over time between legs compared to the initial values in the absorbed energy and in temperature, with higher final values in the absorbed energy in the left leg compared to the right (26.31 ± 3.75 W vs. 17.36 ± 5.66 W) and a moderate effect on both (R² = 0.471 and 0.492, respectively). The near absence of changes in the satisfaction of both the patients and the professional was observed, while the score in the GRA decreased continuously throughout the sessions. Conclusions: Radiofrequency parameters are indicative of an improved clinical response to ulcers. In addition, higher radiofrequency exposure increases healing capacity. However, the subjective perception of treatment outcomes worsened, which may be related to the chronic nature of the ulcers, leading to patients’ expectations not being met. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Age-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders)

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12 pages, 1555 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Morphometric Parameters and MRI Morphological Changes of the Knee and Patella in Physically Active Adolescents

by Goran Djuricic, Filip Milanovic, Sinisa Ducic, Vladimir Radlović, Mikan Lazovic, Ivan Soldatovic and Dejan Nikolic

Medicina 2023, 59(2), 213; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59020213 - 22 Jan 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2953

Abstract

Background and Objectives: The immature skeleton in a pediatric population exposed to frequent physical activity might be extremely prone to injuries, with possible consequences later in adulthood. The main aim of this study is to present specific morphometric parameters and magnetic resonance [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: The immature skeleton in a pediatric population exposed to frequent physical activity might be extremely prone to injuries, with possible consequences later in adulthood. The main aim of this study is to present specific morphometric parameters and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) morphological changes of the knee and patella in a physically active pediatric population. Additionally, we wanted to investigate the morphological risk factors for patellar instability. Materials and Methods: The study included the MRI findings of 193 physically active pediatric patients with knee pain. The participants underwent sports activities for 5 to 8 h per week. Two divisions were performed: by age and by patellar type. We evaluated three age groups: group 1 (age 11–14), group 2 (age 15–17), and group 3 (age 18–21 years). In addition, participants were divided by the patellar type (according to Wiberg) into three groups. The following morphometric parameters were calculated: lateral trochlear inclination (LTI), the tibial tubercle–trochlear groove distance (TT-TG), trochlear facet asymmetry (TFA), Insall–Salvati index, modified Insall–Salvati index, Caton–Deschamps index, articular overlap, morphology ratio and contact surface ratio. Results: We found a statistically significant association between patellar type groups in LTI (p < 0.001), TFA (p < 0.001), Insal–Salvati (p = 0.001) index, and Caton–Deschamps index (p = 0.018). According to age groups, we found statistical significance in the Caton–Deschamps index (p = 0.039). The most frequent knee injury parameter, according to Wiberg, in physically active pediatric patients was patella type 2 in boys and type 3 in girls. Conclusions: The MRI morphometric parameters observed in our study might be factors of prediction of knee injury in physically active children. In addition, it might be very useful in sports programs to improve the biomechanics of the knee in order to reduce the injury rate in sports-active children. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Age-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders)

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13 pages, 2584 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hemp Seed Oil in Association with β-Caryophyllene, Myrcene and Ginger Extract as a Nutraceutical Integration in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Double-Blind Prospective Case-Control Study

by Giacomo Farì, Marisa Megna, Salvatore Scacco, Maurizio Ranieri, Maria Vittoria Raele, Enrica Chiaia Noya, Dario Macchiarola, Francesco Paolo Bianchi, Davide Carati, Simona Panico, Eleonora Di Campi, Antonio Gnoni, Venera Scacco, Alessio Danilo Inchingolo, Erda Qorri, Antonio Scarano and Biagio Rapone

Medicina 2023, 59(2), 191; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59020191 - 18 Jan 2023

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4349

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Nutraceuticals are gaining more and more importance as a knee osteoarthritis (KOA) complementary treatment. Among nutraceuticals, hemp seed oil and terpenes are proving to be very useful as therapeutic support for many chronic diseases, but there are still few studies [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Nutraceuticals are gaining more and more importance as a knee osteoarthritis (KOA) complementary treatment. Among nutraceuticals, hemp seed oil and terpenes are proving to be very useful as therapeutic support for many chronic diseases, but there are still few studies regarding their effectiveness for treating KOA, both in combination and separately. The aim of this study is thus to compare the effect of two dietary supplements, both containing hemp seed oil, but of which only one also contains terpenes, in relieving pain and improving joint function in patients suffering from KOA. Materials and Methods: Thirty-eight patients were recruited and divided into two groups. The control group underwent a 45 day treatment with a hemp seed oil-based dietary supplement, while the treatment group assumed a hemp seed oil and terpenes dietary supplement for the same period. Patients were evaluated at the enrollment (T0) and at the end of treatment (T1). Outcome measures were: Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Short-Form-12 (SF-12), Knee Injury Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and Oxford Knee Score (OKS). Results: All outcome measures improved at T1 in both groups, but NRS, KOOS and OKS had a greater significant improvement in the treatment group only. Conclusions: Hemp seed oil and terpenes resulted a more effective integrative treatment option in KOA, improving joint pain and function and representing a good complementary option for patients suffering from osteoarthritis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Age-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders)

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8 pages, 857 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Utilizing Graphical Analysis of Chest Radiographs for Primary Screening of Osteoporosis

by Soichiro Saeki, Kouichi Yamamoto, Rie Tomizawa, Szilvia Meszaros, Csaba Horvath, Luca Zoldi, Helga Szabo, Adam Domonkos Tarnoki, David Laszlo Tarnoki, Takayuki Ishida and Chika Honda

Medicina 2022, 58(12), 1765; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina58121765 - 30 Nov 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1917

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Osteoporosis is a major risk of fractures, harming patients’ quality of life. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), which can detect osteoporosis early, is too expensive to be conducted on a regular basis. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate a screening method [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Osteoporosis is a major risk of fractures, harming patients’ quality of life. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), which can detect osteoporosis early, is too expensive to be conducted on a regular basis. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate a screening method using chest radiographs developed in Japan applied to another population. Materials and Methods: Fifty-five patients who had a chest radiograph and DXA and applied within three months of each test were recruited from the patient database of Semmelweis University (Budapest, Hungary). Graphical analysis of the chest radiographs was conducted to identify the ratio of the cortical bone in the clavicle of each patient. Two researchers performed the analysis, and multiple regression was conducted to determine the bone mineral density of each patient provided by DXA. Results: The Pearson correlation between two examiners’ determinations of the cortical bone ratio was 0.769 (p < 0.001). The multiple regression model proved to be statistically significant in identifying osteoporosis, but the model adopted for the Hungarian population was different compared to the Japanese population. Conclusions: This simple, economic Japanese graphical analysis method for chest radiographs may be feasible in detecting osteoporosis. Further studies with a larger population of patients with greater variety of ethnicity would be of value in improving the accuracy of this model. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Age-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders)

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11 pages, 806 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reliability, Validity and Temporal Stability of the Serbian Version of the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire

by Darko Bulatovic, Dejan Nikolic, Marija Hrkovic, Tamara Filipovic, Dragana Cirovic, Natasa Radosavljevic and Milica Lazovic

Medicina 2022, 58(11), 1531; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina58111531 - 26 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1733

Abstract

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to validate the Serbian version of the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ) and to evaluate temporal stability for the purpose of its implementation in the evaluation of Serbian patients with carpal tunnel syndrome [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to validate the Serbian version of the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ) and to evaluate temporal stability for the purpose of its implementation in the evaluation of Serbian patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Materials and Methods: For the validation of the Serbian version of the BCTQ (BCTQ_SR), we tested 69 individuals with diagnosed CTS that were referred for a conservative treatment at the Institute for Rehabilitation. Neurophysiological tests were used for the electrophysiological grading (EG) of CTS severity in the study sample. The final version of the BCTQ_SR was given to the tested participants from the study on two occasions: test and retest, with a five-day period between the two measurements. Results: The mean value for the symptom severity subscale (SSS) of the BCTQ_SR was 3.01 ± 0.94; for the functional status subscale (FSS) of the BCTQ_SR it was 2.85 ± 1.00. Cronbach’s α for the SSS was 0.91 and 0.93 for the FSS. The intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) concerning the test–retest were significant (p < 0.001) and were 0.949 for the SSS and 0.959 for the FSS. Those with a higher EG grade had higher values of the SSS and FSS but without a statistical significance (p = 0.103 and p = 0.053, respectively). The intercorrelation of the BCTQ_SR subscales (SSS and FSS) on the test was significant (p < 0.001) with a correlation coefficient equal to 0.777. Conclusion: The Serbian version of the BCTQ (BCTQ_SR) was successfully culturally adopted. The BCTQ_SR was a valid and reliable instrument for the measurement of symptom severity and functional status in adults with CTS. Therefore, it can be used in clinical practice for patients with CTS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Age-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceSystematic Review

Correlation between the Altered Gut Microbiome and Lifestyle Interventions in Chronic Widespread Pain Patients: A Systematic Review

by María Elena Gonzalez-Alvarez, Eleuterio A. Sanchez-Romero, Silvia Turroni, Josué Fernandez-Carnero and Jorge H. Villafañe

Medicina 2023, 59(2), 256; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59020256 - 29 Jan 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3299

Abstract

Background: Lifestyle interventions have a direct impact on the gut microbiome, changing its composition and functioning. This opens an innovative way for new therapeutic opportunities for chronic widespread patients. Purpose: The goal of the present study was to evaluate a correlation [...] Read more.

Background: Lifestyle interventions have a direct impact on the gut microbiome, changing its composition and functioning. This opens an innovative way for new therapeutic opportunities for chronic widespread patients. Purpose: The goal of the present study was to evaluate a correlation between lifestyle interventions and the gut microbiome in patients with chronic widespread pain (CWP). Methods: The systematic review was conducted until January 2023. Pain and microbiome were the two keywords selected for this revision. The search was conducted in PubMed, Chochrane, PEDro and ScienceDirect, where 3917 papers were obtained. Clinical trials with lifestyle intervention in CWP patients were selected. Furthermore, these papers had to be related with the gut microbiome, excluding articles related to other types of microbiomes. Results: Only six articles were selected under the eligibility criteria. Lifestyle interventions were exercise, electroacupuncture and ingesting a probiotic. Conclusions: Lifestyle intervention could be a suitable choice to improve the gut microbiome. This fact could be extrapolated into a better quality of life and lesser levels of pain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Age-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders)

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