A comparative analysis of titanium anatomic plate and titanium reconstructive plate for treatment of extra-articular fractures of the scapula (Miller types IIb, IIc, and IV).

BACKGROUND: Because of the irregular shape of the scapula and the different types of fractures, a standard internal fixation device is lacking in clinical practice, even though there are many options available. This study aimed to compare the therapeutic efficacy of titanium anatomic and reconstructive plates for extra-articular fractures of the scapula (Miller types IIb, IIc, and IV). METHODS: A retrospective study of 41 patients who underwent treatment for extra-articular fractures of the scapula between March 2017 and March 2020 was conducted. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the fixation device: titanium anatomic plate group (20 patients) and titanium reconstructive plate group (21 patients). After follow-up for 12-18 months, the general characteristics, perioperative characteristics, postoperative follow-up findings, and imaging data of the 2 groups were compared. RESULTS: The surgical procedures were uneventful in both groups. The anatomic plate group significantly outperformed the reconstructive plate group with respect to surgical duration and intraoperative blood loss (P < .001). At 3-month postoperative follow-up, the Constant-Murley score (P = .026), shoulder flexion range of motion, and shoulder abduction range of motion in the anatomic plate group were all significantly better than those in the reconstructive plate group (P < .001). The postoperative Western Ontario Shoulder Instability scores of the 2 groups were similar. Imaging showed functional recovery and stable and reliable fixation in both groups. Time to bone union was similar in both groups (9.10 ± 1.25 weeks in anatomic plate group and 9.24 ± 1.41 weeks in reconstructive plate group, P = .742). No complications occurred in any patient, such as fixation failure, instability, or bone nonunion. CONCLUSION: Surgeons should favorably consider titanium anatomic plates for the treatment of extra-articular scapular fractures owing to their clear efficacy associated with a shorter surgical time, less intraoperative blood loss, better fixation, and rapid short-term functional recovery.

The impact of exercise training on calf pump function, muscle strength, ankle range of motion, and health-related quality of life in patients with chronic venous insufficiency at different stages of severity: a systematic review.

Exercise training (ET) is an important tool in the management of patients with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). The objective of this article was to discuss the effects of ET on the calf pump, functional parameters, and quality of life of patients with mild and advanced CVI. A systematic review was conducted and eleven studies were included. In patients with mild CVI, ET was effective for improving venous reflux, muscle strength, ankle range of motion, and quality of life. In advanced CVI patients, ET increased ejection fraction, reduced residual volume fraction, and improved muscle strength and ankle range of motion, but did not change venous reflux indices or quality of life. It is concluded that ET is effective for improving calf pump function, muscle strength, and ankle range of motion in CVI. In patients with mild CVI, additional benefits were observed in quality of life.

O treinamento físico é uma importante ferramenta no tratamento de pacientes com insuficiência venosa crônica. O objetivo foi discutir os efeitos do tratamento físico na bomba da panturrilha, os parâmetros funcionais e a qualidade de vida de pacientes com insuficiência venosa crônica leve e avançada. Uma revisão sistemática foi realizada, e 11 estudos foram incluídos. Na insuficiência venosa crônica leve, o treinamento físico foi eficaz na melhora do refluxo venoso, da força muscular, da amplitude de movimento do tornozelo e da qualidade de vida. Na insuficiência venosa crônica avançada, o treinamento físico aumentou a fração de ejeção, reduziu a fração de volume residual e melhorou a força muscular e amplitude de movimento do tornozelo, sem alterações nos índices de refluxo venoso e na qualidade de vida. Conclui-se que o treinamento físico é eficaz na melhoria da bomba da panturrilha, da força muscular e da amplitude de movimento do tornozelo na insuficiência venosa crônica. Em pacientes com insuficiência venosa crônica leve, foram encontrados benefícios adicionais na qualidade de vida.

Manual therapy for the management of pain and limited range of motion in subjects with signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorder: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials.

There is a lack of knowledge about the effectiveness of manual therapy (MT) on subjects with temporomandibular disorders (TMD). The aim of this systematic review is to synthetise evidence regarding the isolated effect of MT in improving maximum mouth opening (MMO) and pain in subjects with signs and symptoms of TMD. MEDLINE(®) , Cochrane, Web of Science, SciELO and EMBASE(™) electronic databases were consulted, searching for randomised controlled trials applying MT for TMD compared to other intervention, no intervention or placebo. Two authors independently extracted data, PEDro scale was used to assess risk of bias, and GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) was applied to synthetise overall quality of the body of evidence. Treatment effect size was calculated for pain, MMO and pressure pain threshold (PPT). Eight trials were included, seven of high methodological quality. Myofascial release and massage techniques applied on the masticatory muscles are more effective than control (low to moderate evidence) but as effective as toxin botulinum injections (moderate evidence). Upper cervical spine thrust manipulation or mobilisation techniques are more effective than control (low to high evidence), while thoracic manipulations are not. There is moderate-to-high evidence that MT techniques protocols are effective. The methodological heterogeneity across trials protocols frequently contributed to decrease quality of evidence. In conclusion, there is widely varying evidence that MT improves pain, MMO and PPT in subjects with TMD signs and symptoms, depending on the technique. Further studies should consider using standardised evaluations and better study designs to strengthen clinical relevance.

The linear intra-articular motions of the temporomandibular joint in individuals with severe forward head posture: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: The cervical vertebrae and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) may be linked through their common muscles. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present study was to compare the linear intra-articular motions of the TMJ between individuals with the normal craniocervical posture (CCP) and severe forward head posture (FHP). DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. METHODS: Volunteers (N = 38) were equally assigned to either the severe FHP group or the normal CCP group according to their craniovertebral angle (CVA). The CVA angles greater than 49° were considered as the normal CCP while angles between 44 and 40° were regarded as the severe FHP. The TMJ was imaged at the closed, median, and maximum open positions of the mouth using an ultrasound machine with a 7.5 MHz linear transducer in the sitting position. The best-fitting curve in the contour registration method was employed to measure displacement of the mandibular condyle on the transverse and vertical axes. RESULTS: The forward displacement of the mandibular condyle in the severe FHP group was significantly (p-value = 0.037) reduced compared to the normal CCP group at maximum open position of the mouth, while no significant difference was revealed at closed (p-value = 0.937) or median open (p-value = 0.699) positions. The perpendicular displacement of the mandibular condyle exhibited no significant (p-value>0.107) difference between groups at any mouth position. DISCUSSION: The current study demonstrated, for the first time, that severe FHP may impact the intra-articular motion of the TMJ. This study presumed that individuals with severe FHP may encounter a force imbalance in the anterior-posterior direction.

Association between Hip/Groin Pain and Hip ROM and Strength in Elite Female Soccer Players.

Background/Objectives: Hip strength and range of motion have been compared in soccer players with and without hip and groin pain but only in male footballers or gender-combined samples. In female soccer players, the biomechanics contributing to this injury remain poorly understood compared to other sporting injuries. The aim of the present study is to investigate whether differences exist in adductor and abductor isometric test values and hip joint range of motion between elite female soccer players with longstanding groin pain and injury-free controls. Methods: Ten female elite soccer players with current longstanding hip and groin pain and twenty-five injury-free controls from the same teams were included in the study. Hip adductor and abductor isometric strength were evaluated with a hand-held dynamometer. A bent knee fall-out test was also utilized to examine the hip joint range of motion. Results: A significant difference in abductor isometric test values was observed between the control group (2.29 ± 0.53 N/Kg) and the hip and groin pain group (2.77 ± 0.48 N/Kg; p = 0.018). Furthermore, the injured group showed a decreased adductor/abductor ratio compared to the control group (1.00 ± 0.33 vs. 1.27 ± 0.26; p = 0.013). No differences were observed in the bent knee fall-out test (p = 0.285). Conclusions: Female elite soccer players with current longstanding hip and groin pain exhibited higher abductor isometric strength and lower adductor/abductor ratio compared to non-injured women players. There were no differences in the BKFO test between groups.

Functional outcomes and quality of life in patients who undergone conventional or endoscopic/robotic retroauricular neck dissection: a case-control study.

Background: Neck dissection performed via retroauricular approach emerged as an alternative to the conventional approach, aiming to maintain therapeutic efficacy with lower postoperative morbidity. Differences among these modalities in terms of functional aspects and quality of life (QOL) remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate the anatomical and functional aspects and the QOL in patients undergoing unilateral neck dissection via conventional or retroauricular (endoscopic or robotic) access. Methods: This study involved consecutively 35 patients who underwent unilateral neck dissection for head and neck cancer, 25 submitted to the conventional surgery [conventional group (CG)] and 10 to the retroauricular approach [retroauricular group (RG)]. Patients were evaluated preoperatively and on the 30th postoperative day (POD) regarding range of motion (ROM) of the cervical spine and shoulder, trapezius muscle strength and QOL. Results: The CG and RG were similar in terms of anthropometric, clinical and surgical variables. The mean age of both groups was between 52 and 55 years old. There was a predominance of females in the CG (52%) and males in the RG (70%); P=0.08. The most affected site was the oropharynx followed by the thyroid in the two groups and the most frequently dissected levels were I-III in both groups. There was a difference in the length of hospital stay {CG: 5 [1-22] days and RG: 2 [1-6] days; P=0.02} and pain scores at the 30th POD was higher in CG group (P=0.002). Regarding the cervical spine ROM, it was better in RG in the 30th POD for neck extension, ipsilateral lateroflexion, contralateral lateroflexion and contralateral rotation (P<0.05). No significant differences were found regarding shoulder ROM. Trapezius muscle strength, was also higher at the 30th POD in RG group (P<0.05). QOL was most impacted in the CG in the Chewing and Shoulder domains and Physical Function dimension at the 30th POD (P<0.05). Conclusions: Postoperative functional morbidity was lower in patients undergoing retroauricular neck dissection. The cervical spine ROM and trapezius muscle strength were better in patients undergoing retroauricular approach and postoperative QOL was worse in patients undergoing conventional neck dissection.

Rehabilitation Treatment of a Patient With Total Humeral Endoprosthetic Replacement.

Total humeral endoprosthetic replacement (THR) is a rare surgery for malignant humeral bone tumors. Studies focusing on its surgical methods and functional status are limited. Furthermore, rehabilitation treatment after THR has not been reported. Therefore, this case report aimed to investigate its postoperative rehabilitation treatment and reinstatement. A 69-year-old woman was diagnosed with chondrosarcoma of her left humerus. THR was performed the day following patient admission. The wide resection caused the loss of her left shoulder motor function. She had a left ulnar nerve disorder and carpal tunnel syndrome. Rehabilitation treatments such as joint range of motion training were initiated on postoperative day (POD) 1. We designed a shoulder abductor brace to maintain her left shoulder in an abducted and flexed position so she could use her left hand effectively. The manual muscle testing scores for elbow joint movements gradually improved. On POD47, she was transferred to a convalescent rehabilitation hospital to receive training in activities of daily living and barber work. The patient was discharged on POD107. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score improved from 86.2 (POD7) to 17.2 (POD107). She continued outpatient rehabilitation and reinstated work on POD143. The use of a brace and seamless rehabilitation from the acute phase to convalescence and community-based rehabilitation enabled the patient with THR to return to work. This study suggests that precise assessment of the disorders and consecutive rehabilitation treatment with a brace should be considered after THR.

Hip Function after Surgically Treated Isolated Traumatic Acetabular Fracture: A Prospective Series of Consecutive Cases.

Purpose: Isolated acetabular fractures can occur as a result of a high energy impact on the hip joint. Surgery is required for most patients with an isolated acetabular fracture in order to alleviate pain, restore joint stability, and regain hip function. This study was conducted in order to examine the course of hip function in patients after surgical treatment of an isolated traumatic acetabular fracture. Materials and Methods: This prospective series of consecutive cases included patients who underwent surgery for treatment of an isolated acetabular fracture in a European level one trauma center between 2016 and 2020. Patients with relevant concomitant injuries were excluded. Scoring of hip function was performed by a trauma surgeon using the Modified Merle d'Aubigné and Postel score at six-week, 12-week, six-month, and one-year follow-up. Scores between 3-11 indicate poor, 12-14 fair, 15-17 good, and 18 excellent hip function. Results: Data on 46 patients were included. The mean score for hip function was 10 (95% confidence interval [CI] 7.09-12.91) at six-week follow-up (23 patients), 13.75 (95% CI 10.74-16.76) at 12-week follow-up (28 patients), 16 (95% CI 13.40-18.60) at six-month follow-up (25 patients), and 15.50 (95% CI 10.55-20.45) at one-year follow-up (17 patients). After one-year follow-up, the scores reflected an excellent outcome in 11 patients, good in five patients, and poor in one patient. Conclusion: This study reports on the course of hip function in patients who have undergone surgical treatment for isolated acetabular fractures. Restoration of excellent hip function takes six months.

Impairments in ankle range of motion, dorsi and plantar flexors muscle strength and gait speed in patients with chronic venous disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To verify the differences in ankle range of motion (ROM), muscle strength of dorsi and plantar flexors, and gait speed among healthy subjects, and patients with chronic venous disorders (CVD) with and without venous leg ulcer. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis (http://osf.io/b7n3k) were conducted following a search of MEDLINE, Web of Science, CINAHL, LILACS, Scopus, and EMBASE databases. RESULTS: Eight papers were included. The ankle ROM was significantly lower both in dorsiflexion and plantar flexion in patients with venous leg ulcer when compared to healthy individuals and CVD patients without venous leg ulcer. The muscle strength of the plantar flexors and gait speed were reduced in CVD patients when compared to healthy ones. CONCLUSION: Impaired muscle strength and gait speed can be detected in CVD patients compared to healthy individuals, and ankle ROM tends to be reduced in CVD patients even in the absence of venous leg ulcers.

Usefulness of the Kinect-V2 System for Determining the Global Gait Index to Assess Functional Recovery after Total Knee Arthroplasty.

OBJECTIVE: The Korean Knee Society (KKS) score is used for functional evaluation during follow-up after total knee arthroplasty (TKA), but it is time-consuming to measure and is limited by its subjective nature. We investigated whether the global gait asymmetry index (GGA) that can be obtained using the Kinect-V2 system could overcome the KKS limitations. METHODS: Forty-three patients who underwent TKA from January 2019 to December 2019 were included. Postoperatively, regular follow-up was performed at 2, 4, 6, 8, and 12 weeks, and at 4, 6, and 12 months. At each follow-up visit, the KKS was measured, and the walking path was followed with six Kinect-V2 systems. After allowing the participants to walk naturally, the range of motion of each joint of the lower extremity and GGA were obtained. Changes in the KKS and GGA scores and measurement times were investigated until the final follow-up. A statistical model was made to predict the KKS from the GGA score using data at all observed time points, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Turkey's post-hoc tests and Pearson correlation tests were used for evaluation. RESULTS: Both the KKS and GGA scores improved significantly from 4 weeks postoperatively until the final follow-up. The measurement time was significantly shorter for the GGA (9.3 ± 1.4 min) than for the KKS (32.4 ± 9.2 min; P < 0.001) score. The predicted and actual KKS values clustered close to a straight line on the scatter plot, but the prediction was less accurate in the initial stage (2 weeks post-surgery) than at later time points. The mean absolute error (MAE) and root mean square of the error (RMSE) were considered to be poorly predicted in the initial stage (8 weeks post-surgery) compared to the later time-points (MAE ≥ 5 and RMSE ≥ 6 for 8 weeks post-surgery). CONCLUSION: In the early phase after knee joint surgery (up to 12 weeks post-surgery), the GGA index does not predict the KKS well. However, after this time point, the GGA index can be simply measured in the outpatient department and may be able to replace the KKS. Thus, evaluation of the GGA index using the Kinect-V2 may be a useful method to evaluate functional recovery in the outpatient clinic after knee joint surgery.

Reliability of Measuring Leg Segments and Joint Angles Using Smartphones during Aquatic Exercise.

OBJECTIVE: Aquatic therapy is a significant intervention method for both patients and healthy individuals. However, in clinical practice, quantitative measurements are rarely applied in aquatic therapy due to the disadvantages of submerging expensive instruments in water. In this study, we used readily available smartphones and armbands to measure leg segments and joint angles during aquatic gait and evaluated the reliability of these measurements. METHODS: Waterproof smartphones were strapped to the trunk, thighs, and shanks of 19 healthy young adults using armbands. The angles of the trunk, thigh, and shank segments were measured during aquatic gait. The measurements were repeated 1 day later. The data were analyzed to obtain the angles of the hip and knee joints. RESULTS: Measurement repeatability, calculated using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), was the highest for the shank segment range of motion (ROM) (first 46.79° ± 5.50°, second 50.12° ± 9.98°, ICC = 0.78). There was high agreement in trunk segment ROM (first 6.36° ± 1.42°, second 4.29° ± 1.83°, ICC = 0.73), thigh segment ROM (first 33.49° ± 5.18°, second 37.31° ± 8.70°, ICC = 0.62), and knee joint ROM (first 52.43° ± 11.26°, second 62.19° ± 16.65°, ICC = 0.68) and fair agreement in hip joint ROM (first 34.60°±4.71°, second 37.80° ± 7.84°, ICC = 0.59). CONCLUSIONS: Smartphones can be used to reliably measure leg segments and joint angles during aquatic gait, providing a simpler method for obtaining these measurements and enabling the wider use of aquatic motion analysis in clinical practice and research.

Outcomes following balloon tibioplasty versus conventional osteosynthesis techniques for Schatzker type III tibial plateau fractures: a systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: Schatzker type III fractures of the tibial plateau require elevation of the depressed portions to regain articular congruity. Balloon tibioplasty has been used as an alternative to conventional metal instruments for elevation of the lateral tibial plateau. This study compared functional outcomes following balloon tibioplasty or conventional osteosynthesis techniques in patients with type III fractures of the tibial plateau. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library to identify studies published through March 29, 2021, pertaining to balloon tibioplasty or conventional osteosynthesis techniques for type III fractures. Non-human studies, opinion or editorial pieces, systematic reviews, case series (< 5 patients), and articles published in a non-English language were excluded. Primary outcomes were Rasmussen clinical score, range of motion, and Knee Society Score (KSS). A Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) risk of bias assessment was performed for all studies. RESULTS: A total of 95 studies were identified, with 10 studies (and 132 total patients) meeting inclusion criteria: 1 study focused on balloon tibioplasty, 8 studies reported outcomes following conventional osteosynthesis, and 1 study compared outcomes of the two techniques. Mean follow-up times varied widely, from 4 to 76.3 months. Where reported, balloon tibioplasty resulted in good to excellent functional outcomes as indicated by Rasmussen clinical scores (mean 28.3 in a case series; mean 28.9 in a randomized controlled trial) and range of motion (≥ 140° in both studies) 1-2 years following surgery. KSS was not reported consistently enough for comparison. Studies ranged from low to high risk of bias according to the JBI assessment. CONCLUSIONS: Balloon tibioplasty can lead to excellent functional outcomes in patients with depression fractures of the lateral tibial plateau. More research is needed to directly compare outcomes following treatment with balloon tibioplasty or conventional osteosynthesis techniques.

The Effectiveness of Post-exercise Stretching in Short-Term and Delayed Recovery of Strength, Range of Motion and Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Background: Post-exercise (i.e., cool-down) stretching is commonly prescribed for improving recovery of strength and range of motion (ROM) and diminishing delayed onset muscular soreness (DOMS) after physical exertion. However, the question remains if post-exercise stretching is better for recovery than other post-exercise modalities. Objective: To provide a systematic review and meta-analysis of supervised randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) on the effects of post-exercise stretching on short-term (≤1 h after exercise) and delayed (e.g., ≥24 h) recovery makers (i.e., DOMS, strength, ROM) in comparison with passive recovery or alternative recovery methods (e.g., low-intensity cycling). Methods: This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO CRD42020222091). RCTs published in any language or date were eligible, according to P.I.C.O.S. criteria. Searches were performed in eight databases. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane RoB 2. Meta-analyses used the inverse variance random-effects model. GRADE was used to assess the methodological quality of the studies. Results: From 17,050 records retrieved, 11 RCTs were included for qualitative analyses and 10 for meta-analysis (n = 229 participants; 17-38 years, mostly males). The exercise protocols varied between studies (e.g., cycling, strength training). Post-exercise stretching included static stretching, passive stretching, and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation. Passive recovery (i.e., rest) was used as comparator in eight studies, with additional recovery protocols including low intensity cycling or running, massage, and cold-water immersion. Risk of bias was high in ~70% of the studies. Between-group comparisons showed no effect of post-exercise stretching on strength recovery (ES = -0.08; 95% CI = -0.54-0.39; p = 0.750; I 2 = 0.0%; Egger's test p = 0.531) when compared to passive recovery. In addition, no effect of post-exercise stretching on 24, 48, or 72-h post-exercise DOMS was noted when compared to passive recovery (ES = -0.09 to -0.24; 95% CI = -0.70-0.28; p = 0.187-629; I 2 = 0.0%; Egger's test p = 0.165-0.880). Conclusion: There wasn't sufficient statistical evidence to reject the null hypothesis that stretching and passive recovery have equivalent influence on recovery. Data is scarce, heterogeneous, and confidence in cumulative evidence is very low. Future research should address the limitations highlighted in our review, to allow for more informed recommendations. For now, evidence-based recommendations on whether post-exercise stretching should be applied for the purposes of recovery should be avoided, as the (insufficient) data that is available does not support related claims. Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO, identifier: CRD42020222091.

Does the supraspinatus tear pattern affect the results of the arthroscopic repair?

Objective To evaluate the influence of the supraspinal tear pattern on the pre- and postoperative functional evaluations. Methods A retrospective cohort study comparing patients with supraspinatus crescent-shaped tears versus L- or U-shaped tears. We included patients undergoing complete supraspinatus arthroscopic repair. We did not include patients with subscapularis or infraspinatus repair, those submitted to open surgery, or those in whom only partial repair was achieved. The clinical scales used were the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment (ASES) and the Modified-University of California at Los Angeles Shoulder Rating Scale (UCLA), which were applied 1 week before and 24 months after the procedure. Results We analyzed 167 shoulders (from 163 patients). In the preoperative period, the ASES scale was significantly higher in the crescent-shaped pattern (43.5 ± 17.6 versus 37.7 ± 13.8; p = 0.034). The UCLA scale followed the same pattern (15.2 ± 4.6 versus 13.5 ± 3.6; p = 0.028). In the postoperative period, however, there was no significant difference. According to the ASES scale, crescent-shaped tears scored 83.7 ± 18.7 points, and L- or U-shaped tears scored 82.9 ± 20.1 ( p = 0.887). The values were 30.9 ± 4.9 and 30.5 ± 5.6 ( p = 0.773) respectively, by the UCLA scale. Conclusion Crescent-shaped and L- or U-shaped supraspinatus tears have similar postoperative functional results. In the preoperative period, the functional results are superior in crescent-shaped tears.

[Goniometry of flexion-extension ankle movement: comparative analysis between bone reference method and neutral 0 method]. / Goniometría del movimiento de flexo-extensión de tobillo: análisis comparativo entre método de referencias óseas y método 0 neutral.

Introduction: Two different methods are used in goniometry of the ankle: the neutral zero method (N0M) and the bone reference method (BRM). In addition, the N0M has a subtype (N0I), with a different technique. Purpose: To determine the average of the amplitude of flexion-extension of the ankle, measured in different body positions, using N0M, N0I and BRM, in young adults of both sexes, with the objective of providing evidence so that the ankle goniometry is more reliable. Material and methods: 190 students from the School of Kinesiology and Physiotherapy were studied, using the three methods of joint measurement in 4 different body positions; the amplitude of flex-extension in an ankle per student was evaluated. Results: In most positions, the measurements were different in the three methods compared (P<0.05). The M0 and M0I methods yielded similar results in some comparisons. The patient's position also significantly influences the result obtained. Dorsal ankle flexion was similar between men and women in most of the methods and positions; the plantar flexion that was greater in women in all cases (P<0.0001). The full flex-extension value, in most cases, was higher in women than in men (P<0.001). Conclusions: Both the method and the patient's position significantly influence the results of the goniometric measurement. Gender influences the joint width of the plantar ankle flexion, regardless of the measurement method used.

Introducción: En la goniometría de tobillo se utilizan dos métodos diferentes, el método cero neutral (M0N) y el método de referencias óseas (MRO). Además, el M0N tiene un subtipo (M0I), con una técnica diferente. Objetivo: Determinar el promedio de la amplitud de flexo-extensión de tobillo, medida en diferentes posiciones corporales, utilizando M0N, M0I y MRO, en adultos jóvenes de ambos sexos, con el objetivo de aportar evidencia para que la goniometría de tobillo sea más fiable. Materiales y Métodos: Se estudiaron 190 alumnos de la Escuela de Kinesiología y Fisioterapia, utilizando los tres métodos de medición articular en 4 posiciones corporales diferentes; se evaluó la amplitud de flexo-extensión en un tobillo por alumno. Resultados: En la mayoría de las posiciones, las mediciones fueron diferentes en los tres métodos comparados (P<0,05). Los métodos M0 y M0I arrojaron resultados similares en algunas comparaciones puntuales. La posición del paciente también influye significativamente en el resultado obtenido. La flexión dorsal de tobillo fue similar entre hombres y mujeres en la mayoría de los métodos y posiciones del paciente, no así la flexión plantar que fue mayor en las mujeres en todos los casos (P<0,0001). El valor completo de flexo-extensión, en la mayoría de los casos fue mayor en las mujeres que en los varones (P<0,001). Conclusiones: Tanto el método como la posición del paciente influyen significativamente en los resultados de la medición goniométrica. El género influye en la amplitud articular de la flexión plantar de tobillo, independientemente del método de medición utilizado.

Ankle Motion and Offloading in Short Leg Cast and Low and High Fracture Boots.

BACKGROUND: Short leg casts (SLCs) and fracture boots are used to treat foot and ankle injuries, but the decision to use one device over the other is often subjective. This study compared the impact of SLCs and low and high fracture boots on ankle motion and offloading. METHODS: Twenty healthy adults were prospectively studied. High-speed dynamic radiography was utilized to determine tibiotalar range of motion in the sagittal plane during nonweightbearing (NWB) and weightbearing (WB) gait in a shoe (control), SLC, and low and high fracture boots. Sensors captured peak plantar surface forces to determine ankle offloading. RESULTS: In NWB, the low fracture boot (2.2 ± 2.0 degrees), high fracture boot (2.3 ± 1.6 degrees), and SLC (2.3 ± 1.5 degrees) had significantly less motion compared with the control (3.6 ± 2.1 degrees; P ≤ .026). During WB, the SLC (3.4 ± 1.4 degrees) and high fracture boot (4.8 ± 2.0 degrees) had less motion compared with the low fracture boot (7.8 ± 3.4 degrees; P < .001). Finally, the SLC (172.6% ± 48.3% body weight [BW]) and low fracture (165.1% ± 36.2% BW) and high fracture (154.5% ± 32.9% BW) boots were associated with less peak plantar surface force compared with the control (195.0% ± 43.8% BW; P ≤ .087). CONCLUSION: The SLC and high fracture boot immobilized the ankle in NWB and offloaded and immobilized the ankle in WB. The low fracture boot also immobilized the ankle in NWB, but in WB, the low fracture boot only offloaded the ankle and did not immobilize it. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The low fracture boot may be more suited for NWB or possibly immobilizing the foot in WB.

Impaired flexibility in patients with tropical spastic paraparesis/HTLV-associated myelopathy: evaluation via pendulum fleximeter / Flexibilidade prejudicada em pacientes com paraparesia espástica tropical/mielopatia associada ao HTLV: avaliação via flexímetro pendular

Abstract Background Flexibility is crucial to the harmonious execution of joint movements. While skeletal muscle dysfunction in patients with HTLV-1 can interfere with mobility, it is unclear whether these patients experience reduced flexibility. Objective To evaluate the differences in flexibility between HTLV-1-infected individuals with and without myelopathy compared with uninfected controls. We also investigated whether age, sex, body mass index (BMI), physical activity level, or lower back pain influence flexibility in HTLV-1-infected individuals. Methods The sample consisted of 56 adults, of which 15 did not have HTLV-1, 15 had HTLV-1 without myelopathy, and 26 had TSP/HAM. Their flexibility was assessed using the sit-and-reach test and a pendulum fleximeter. Results No differences in flexibility were observed between the groups with and without myelopathy and controls without HTLV-1 infection using the sit-and-reach test. The pendulum fleximeter results of individuals with TSP/HAM presented the lowest flexibility among the groups with respect to trunk flexion, hip flexion and extension, knee flexion, and ankle dorsiflexion, even after adjusting for age, sex, BMI, level of physical activity, and lower back pain using multiple linear regression models. Additionally, HTLV-1-infected individuals without myelopathy demonstrated reduced flexibility in movements: knee flexion, dorsiflexion, and ankle plantar flexion. Conclusions Individuals with TSP/HAM demonstrated reduced flexibility in most of the movements evaluated by the pendulum fleximeter. Additionally, HTLV-1-infected individuals without myelopathy demonstrated reduced knee and ankle flexibility, potentially representing a marker of myelopathic development.

Resumo Antecedentes A flexibilidade é fundamental para a execução harmoniosa dos movimentos articulares. Embora a disfunção do músculo esquelético em pacientes com HTLV-1 possa interferir na mobilidade, não está claro se esses pacientes apresentam flexibilidade reduzida. Objetivo Avaliar as diferenças de flexibilidade entre os indivíduos infectados com e sem mielopatia e o grupo controle sem infecção HTLV-1. Também investigamos se idade, sexo, índice de massa corporal (IMC), nível de atividade física ou dor lombar influenciam a flexibilidade em indivíduos infectados pelo HTLV-1. Métodos A amostra foi composta por 56 adultos, dos quais 15 não possuíam HTLV-1, 15 possuíam HTLV-1 sem mielopatia e 26 possuíam TSP/HAM. A flexibilidade foi avaliada por meio do teste de sentar e alcançar e do flexímetro de pêndulo. Resultados Não foram observadas diferenças na flexibilidade entre os grupos com e sem mielopatia no teste de sentar e alcançar. Os resultados do flexímetro pendular dos indivíduos com TSP/HAM apresentaram a menor flexibilidade entre os grupos em relação à flexão do tronco, flexão e extensão do quadril, flexão do joelho e dorsiflexão do tornozelo, mesmo após ajuste para idade, sexo, IMC, nível de atividade física e dor lombar usando modelos de regressão múltipla linear. Além disso, os indivíduos infectados pelo HTLV-1 sem mielopatia demonstraram redução da flexibilidade nos movimentos de flexão do joelho, dorsiflexão e flexão plantar do tornozelo. Conclusão Indivíduos com TSP/HAM demonstraram redução da flexibilidade na maioria dos movimentos avaliados pelo flexímetro pendular. Além disso, indivíduos infectados pelo HTLV-1 sem mielopatia demonstraram redução da flexibilidade do joelho e tornozelo, representando potencialmente um marcador de desenvolvimento mielopático.

Relationship between the critical shoulder angle and the development of rotator cuff lesions: a retrospective epidemiological study.

OBJECTIVE: To perform a retrospective epidemiological study of radiographs in order to evaluate the relationship between the anatomy of the scapula and the development of rotator cuff injuries (RCIs). METHODS: This study retrospectively evaluated the relation of the critical shoulder angle (CSA) and RCIs from January 2011 to November 2013; patients were examined in the Orthopedics and Traumatology Department of a university hospital. The CSA was measured by radiographic standardization of two groups: a control group of 34 asymptomatic shoulders and a study group of 44 shoulders with complete RCIs. RESULTS: The mean age in the control group was 59.97 years (45-84) and the mean age in the group with RCIs was 59.75 years (45-84). Regarding the CSA, the control group had a mean angle of 33.59° (±3.37) and the group with RCIs had a mean angle of 39.75° (±5.35; p < 0.007). CONCLUSION: There is an association between CSA and RCIs.

OBJETIVO: Fazer um estudo epidemiológico retrospectivo em radiografias para avaliar a relação entre a anatomia da escápula e o desenvolvimento de lesões do manguito rotador (LMR). MÉTODOS: O presente estudo avaliou retrospectivamente a relação do ângulo crítico do ombro (ACO) e LMR de janeiro de 2011 a novembro de 2013, em pacientes atendidos em um hospital universitário pelo Departamento de Ortopedia e Traumatologia. Para tanto, o ACO foi medido após a padronização radiográfica de dois grupos, um grupo controle de 34 ombros assintomáticos e um segundo grupo de 44 ombros com LMR. RESULTADOS: A média de idade no grupo controle foi de 59,97 anos (45-84) e de 59,75 anos no grupo com LMR (45-84). Em relação ao ACO, os pacientes do grupo controle tiveram média de 33,59 graus de angulação (± 3,37) e o grupo de pacientes com LMR apresentou uma média de 39,75 graus de angulação (± 5,35; p < 0,007). CONCLUSÃO: Há uma relação entre ACO e LMR.

Range of Motion of the Ankle According to Pushing Force, Gender and Knee Position.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the difference of range of motion (ROM) of ankle according to pushing force, gender and knee position. METHODS: One hundred and twenty-eight healthy adults (55 men, 73 women) between the ages of 20 and 51, were included in the study. One examiner measured the passive range of motion (PROM) of ankle by Dualer IQ Inclinometers and Commander Muscle Testing. ROM of ankle dorsiflexion (DF) and plantarflexion (PF) according to change of pushing force and knee position were measured at prone position. RESULTS: There was significant correlation between ROM and pushing force, the more pushing force leads the more ROM at ankle DF and ankle PF. Knee flexion of 90° position showed low PF angle and high ankle DF angle, as compared to the at neutral position of knee joint. ROM of ankle DF for female was greater than for male, with no significant difference. ROM of ankle PF for female was greater than male regardless of the pushing force. CONCLUSION: To our knowledge, this is the first study to assess the relationship between pushing force and ROM of ankle joint. There was significant correlation between ROM of ankle and pushing force. ROM of ankle PF for female estimated greater than male regardless of the pushing force and the number of measurement. The ROM of the ankle is measured differently according to the knee joint position. Pushing force, gender and knee joint position are required to be considered when measuring the ROM of ankle joint.

Effects of cement augmentation on the mechanical stability of multilevel spine after vertebral compression fracture.

BACKGROUND: Studies on the effects of cement augmentation or vertebroplasty on multi-level spine after vertebral compression fractures are lacking. This paper seeks to establish a 3-vertebrae ovine model to determine the impact of compression fracture on spine biomechanics, and to discover if cement augmentation can restore mechanical stability to fractured spine. METHODS: Five lumbar spine segments (L1-L3) were obtained from 5-year-old female Merino sheep. Standardized wedge-compression fractures were generated in each L2 vertebra, and then augmented with polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) cement mixed with 30% barium sulphate powder. Biomechanical pure moment testing in axial rotation (AR), flexion/extension (FE) and lateral bending (LB) was carried out in the intact, fractured and repaired states. Range of motion (ROM) and neutral zone (NZ) parameters were compared, and plain radiographs taken at every stage. RESULTS: Except for a significant increase in ROM between the intact and fractured states in AR between L1 and L2 (P<0.05), there were no other significant differences in ROM or NZ between the other groups. There was a trend towards an increase in ROM and NZ in all directions after fracture, but this did not reach significance. Normal biomechanics was only minimally restored after augmentation. CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest that cement augmentation could not restore mechanical stability of fractured spine. Model-specific factors may have had a role in these findings. Caution should be exercised when applying these results to humans.